Ginger.Lily @ Hilton Singapore Orchard - Discover The New Third Chapter of Ginger.Lily’s Storybook-inspired Teatime Soirée

Ginger.Lily at Hilton Singapore Orchard is back with the third chapter of its storybook-inspired afternoon tea series, showcasing a refined fusion of Executive Pastry Chef Cindy Khoo’s French pastry expertise and passion for Japanese artistry.

Ginger.Lily Afternoon Tea 3.8/5

This afternoon tea, priced at $68++ per person with a minimum of two diners, includes a glass of cocktail or mocktail and two pots of tea.

Two seatings are available daily: 1pm to 3pm, and 3.30pm to 5.30pm.

Prologue

Start your experience with a mocktail or cocktail. The Sparkling Peach Mocktail offers a refreshing blend of Moscato grapes and natural peach juice, while the Yuzu Breeze cocktail intrigues with a combination of Cirka vodka, whipping cream, yuzu essence, and soda water.

We were spoilt for choice for our pots of tea, from its extensive tea list which includes oolong tea, black tea, white tea, green tea, and non-caffeinated herbal tea.

Savouries I

The first savouries, the Truffle Croque Monsieur Twist and Mediterranean Pesto Twist were served in crisp pastry shells. The Mediterranean Pesto Twist stood out with its well-balanced blend of sweetness from sun-dried tomatoes, nutty truffle cream cheese, and herbaceous pesto.

Savouries II

Next, the Basque Brioche with Smoked Duck was presented, offering house-smoked duck on red pesto-infused smoked paprika brioche.

The Miso Brioche with Scallops followed, showcasing Japanese flavours with wasabi-yuzu mayo, tobiko, katsuobushi, and white miso brioche.

Pre-dessert

Before the main sweets course, we were treated to a Pre-dessert: Poached Pears in Blackcurrant Wine, creatively and deliciously paired with sour cream ice cream and mint jelly.

Sweets

The highlight of the tea was the elegant turquoise drawer of sweets. It contained a total of eight exquisite desserts and two types of scones, which are recommended to be savoured from top to bottom.

Pistachio “Flan Parisien” with Orange Blossom

Violet Chocolate Gateau

We started with standouts from the first two rows, such as the Ginger.Lily Chouquettes incorporated flavours from the restaurant's signature tea blend and the Violet Chocolate Gateau, combining banana jam, milk chocolate mousse, and a tangy raspberry finish.

Ruby Baba

However, the last two rows of desserts, such as the Ruby Baba and Botanique En Fleurs 68% Macadamia Cookies, paled in comparison. The Ruby Baba was a little too dry, while the cookies were much sweeter than we would have liked.

Tahitian Vanilla & Jersey Oat Scones

The tea concludes with Tahitian Vanilla & Jersey Oat Scones, served alongside mixed berries compote, orange cinnamon confit, and crème fraîche.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ginger.Lily
Hilton Singapore Orchard
Level 5
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
Tel: +65 6831 6273
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Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am to 1am

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Lucine by LUNA @ Somerset - Popular Cafe With Intricate Entremets Now Serve Hot Savouries

Lucine by LUNA, the new cafe opened by the popular homegrown patisserie LUNA, has made its debut at 111 Somerset, offering an expanded menu that includes exclusive hot savouries and unique flavoured lattes.

Much like their flagship on Amoy Street, Lucine continues to serve the intricately crafted cakes and pastries that have made LUNA a favourite among dessert lovers and cafe-goers.

Tiramisu Latte 4.2/5

The Tiramisu Latte ($8.50) is a standout on the drink menu, which pleasantly surprised us with its balanced sweetness. Unlike many overly sweet-flavoured lattes, this one was creamy and came with a ladyfinger for dipping into the latte.

Black Sesame Latte 4/5

We also tried the Black Sesame Latte ($8.50) but felt that the black sesame flavour could have been more pronounced.

Eggplant Salad 4/5

On the savoury side, we started with the Eggplant Salad ($12.90). The highlight of this dish was the panko-crusted eggplant fritters, which were crunchy and well-seasoned. The base of mixed lettuce, baby spinach, hard-boiled egg, cherry tomatoes and onions was dressed with roasted red capsicum dressing.

All Day Breakfast 2.8/5

The All Day Breakfast (from $8.90) was a customisable option that started with scrambled eggs, toasted sourdough, and salad greens. Unfortunately, it didn't impress us as much as we had hoped, as the sourdough was thin, and the scrambled eggs lacked creaminess. We also had add-ons of Tater Tots ($2), Creamed Spinach ($3.90) and Sauteed Garlic Mushrooms ($3.90) as sides, but they fell short of expectations.

Spam & Cheese 4.2/5

We were more impressed by the Spam & Cheese Sandwich ($10.90), which featured thick-cut chicken spam and cheddar, served between toasted brioche. The crisp crust on the fried spam and a tangy sriracha mayo added just the right amount of tangy heat. Each sandwich is accompanied by a side of mixed greens.

Pistachio Roulade 4.5/5

Of course, LUNA's handcrafted entremets were the highlight of the visit. The Pistachio Roulade ($8.80) was a personal favourite, featuring a soft pistachio chiffon sponge layered with nutty pistachio cream and a tangy raspberry compote.

Blossom 4.2/5

The Blossom ($8.50) is an excellent choice for something more refreshing. This dessert offers subtle sweetness and a floral fragrance, combining strawberry elderflower yoghurt mousse, strawberry curd and compote, rose sponge, and feuilletine crunch.

Citrus Tart 4.2/5

If you're in the mood for a bright and tangy dessert, the Citrus Tart ($8.50) won't disappoint. With its tangy lime curd, orange confit, and vanilla sponge all nestled in a vanilla tart shell and topped with chantilly cream, it provided a well-balanced and zesty finish to our meal.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Lucine by LUNA
TripleOne Somerset
111 Somerset Road
#01-06
Singapore 238164
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 9.30am - 6.30pm
Sat-Sun: 9.30am - 9pm
Sun: 9.30am - 7.30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Shang Palace @ Shangri-La Singapore - Exclusive Moutai Culinary Creations Till 22 September 2024

Visit Shang Palace in Shangri-La Singapore from now until 22 September to indulge in the exclusive Moutai Culinary Creations, crafted by Executive Chinese Chef Daniel Cheung. The special time-limited menu features a comprehensive range of seven a la carte dishes, from appetisers to desserts.

In each of these dishes, Chef Daniel has thoughtfully and harmoniously infused the bold flavours of 贵州茅台 Kweichow Moutai, China's most prestigious liquor. It was interesting to experience Moutai showcased in various creative ways.

Note that most dishes pictured in the article were served in sample portions.

Moutai Symphony

Our meal began with the Moutai Symphony cocktail, served intriguingly in traditional teaware. A blend of Moutai, Crème de Peach, and Bi Luo Green Tea, the cocktail was both bold and refreshing, with subtle fruity undertones complementing the rich notes of the moutai.

Appetisers 4/5

Appetisers came as a trio, starting with the Chilled Crystal Jelly with Shredded Chicken Marinated in Moutai ($36). This dish featured delicate layers of chicken broth jelly and shredded chicken.The Deep-fried Pastry stuffed with Ibérico Minced Pork, Century Egg Yolk, and Moutai ($24 for 3 Pieces) followed, boasting a light and crunchy pastry encasing a flavourful filling with distinct moutai notes. Our final appetiser was a non-moutai dish, the Smoked Bean Curd Rolls with Carrot, Black Mushrooms, and Pickled Radish in Black Truffle Sauce ($20 for 6 Pieces). Served chilled, it hits you immediately with a strong whiff of smokiness. I liked the variety of textures here.

Sautéed Deboned Goose Web 4.2/5

I wasn't sure if I would enjoy the Sautéed Deboned Goose Web and French Bean with Sichuan Peppercorn and Moutai ($48), but it proved to be one of the more surprising highlights of the night. The tender deboned goose web is sautéed in an aromatic and savoury moutai-enhanced sauce, complementing the crunchy French beans.

Flambè Mala Prawns with Lemongrass and Moutai 4/5

Our next dish was the Flambè Mala Prawns with Lemongrass and Moutai ($50). The moment the clayport was uncovered, a garlicky and spicy aroma filled the air. The crunchy prawns inside the claypot were generously fried in an aromatic mix of dried chillies, garlic, lemongrass, Moutai and more.

Deep-fried Ibérico Pork Wrapped in Lychee with Aged Vinegar 4.5/5

Alongside these Moutai-infused dishes, we also sampled some of Shang Palace's classic offerings. The Deep-fried Ibérico Pork Wrapped in Lychee with Aged Vinegar ($46) stood out most for its well-balanced sweet, tangy, and savoury notes. The juicy lychees, encased in crispy Ibérico pork, were perfect with the aged vinegar's slight acidity.

Braised Rice with Sri Lankan Crab Claw and Assorted Dried Seafood 4.2/5

Another highlight was the Braised Rice with Sri Lankan Crab Claw and Assorted Dried Seafood ($30 Per Person). I thoroughly enjoyed the flavourful braised gravy and sweet crab claw meat as a seafood fan.

Chilled Osmanthus Wolfberry Jelly 4/5

For desserts, the Chilled Osmanthus Wolfberry Jelly Topped with Yuzu Sorbet and Preserved Apricot ($15) was a refreshing and sweet finish to the meal.

Chilled Three Layer Coconut Milk, Pandan and Moutai Jelly 3.5/5

The final Moutai creation of the evening was the Chilled Three Layer Coconut Milk, Pandan, and Moutai Jelly ($24), a mildly sweet dessert.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shang Palace
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 6213 4473
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Nearest MRT: Stevens MRT (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes.[Map]

5 ON 25 (五悦亭) @ Andaz Singapore - Refined Cantonese Dining Experience with Panoramic City Skyline View

The newly renovated 5 ON 25 at Andaz Singapore reopened in June. It offers a fresh array of inventive dishes that pay homage to traditional Cantonese cuisine with a modern twist. Perched on the 25th floor of the hotel, the restaurant boasts a comprehensive menu and a breathtaking panoramic view of the city skyline, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

The culinary team is led by esteemed Chinese Head Chef Lim Hong Lih, who brings years of experience in Cantonese fine dining to the table. We had the pleasure of sampling several dishes, including both new creations and popular signatures. Most of the dishes pictured below were portions adjusted to tasting sizes.

Cantonese Style Roasted Cage-Free Cherry Valley Duck with Table Side Maotai Flambé 4.5/5

Our meal began with the 5 ON 25 Cantonese Style Roasted Cage-Free Cherry Valley Duck with Table Side Maotai Flambé ($88 for Half). Watching the chef meticulously slice the duck skin was a delightful prelude to the dish itself. For those who prefer without, the duck is also available without the Maotai Flambé at $49 for a half portion.

Served with freshly steamed skin wrappers, the duck comes with an array of condiments: sweet sauce, sugar, spring onions, cucumber strips, sweet melon strips, and hawthorn strips. While the skin wrapper was slightly thicker than I typically prefer, the crispiness of the duck skin was on point, enhanced by the smokiness from the Maotai flambé. The hawthorn strips, which I feared might be too sweet, turned out to be a harmonious complement.

Fried Australian Jumbo Quail Legs, Salt & Pepper 4.2/5

Next, the Fried Australian Jumbo Quail Legs, Salt & Pepper ($28) were served. Although a touch salty, the fried quail legs exuded a fragrant, garlicky aroma.

Crispy Shiitake Mushrooms, Osmanthus Honey Sauce 4/5

Accompanying the quail was the Crispy Shiitake Mushrooms with Osmanthus Honey Sauce ($15). These mushrooms had a satisfying crunch and were glazed with a sweet, floral osmanthus honey sauce.

Double-Boiled Grouper Soup 4.8/5

I absolutely loved the Double-Boiled Grouper Soup ($48). This creamy broth, infused with delicate fish maw and wolfberries, had a distinct peppery heat and was so rich in collagen that it left a luxurious, sticky mouthfeel. I can't imagine how this could be improved.

Braised Stuffed Sea Cucumber 4.5/5

The Braised Stuffed Sea Cucumber ($48) was another highlight. The sea cucumber, stuffed with a flavourful mixture of pork and shrimp, was served on a bed of sliced mushrooms and bathed in a rich Yunnan mushroom sauce. The sauce was particularly noteworthy, with its delicious numbing hints of peppercorns and an alluring smokiness.

Beetroot Fried Rice 4.8/5

5 ON 25's Beetroot Fried Rice ($38) is another dish you must try. The dish features a delightful play of textures with crunchy fried rice bits, preserved vegetables, green beans and Vietnamese tiger prawns. It was fried so fragrant and finished with slices of Hokkaido scallops placed on top. Even though my dining companion and I were pretty full at this point of the meal, we wiped the pot clean quickly.

Lotus Paste Sesame Pastry 3.8/5

We ended our meal with a selection of desserts. The Lotus Paste Sesame Pastry ($8 for 3 Pieces) featured sweet lotus paste encased in a buttery, flaky pastry.

Chilled Toasted Sesame Pudding and Apricot Egg Tart 3.8/5

A dessert platter followed, featuring two sets of sweets. The first was a Chilled Toasted Sesame Pudding and Apricot Tart ($15). We preferred the sesame pudding for its fragrant, nutty flavour and smooth, balanced texture. The second dessert was the decadent Grand Cru Chocolate Ice Cream ($20), infused with Wu Liang Ye Liquor, a good option for alcohol-based desserts.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


5 ON 25 (五悦亭)
Andaz Singapore
Level 25
5 Fraser Street
Singapore 189354
Tel: +65 64081228
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11.30am - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11.30am - 1pm, 1.15pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit E or F. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]