1-Alfaro by Monti @ Labrador Tower - The Newest Rooftop Lifestyle Destination with Stunning Views

1-Group has unveiled yet another stunning dining destination with the launch of 1-Alfaro by MONTI, perched on the 34th floor of Labrador Tower. Opened on 2 June 2025, this chic lifestyle enclave brings together two complementary concepts: the refined Italian restaurant La Torre and the high-energy rooftop bar La Luna. With breathtaking panoramic views of the southern coastline and city skyline, 1-Alfaro captures the spirit of Italian hospitality and elegance, inspired by the lighthouses of Emilia-Romagna.

Our meal began with complimentary Toasted Bread served with Friggione, a traditional slow-cooked onion and tomato dish, reduced until deeply caramelised and jammy. It set a comforting and flavourful tone for the meal.

Stecco Petroniano 4.2/5

A hit at the table is the Stecco Petroniano ($14 for 2pc). These deep-fried rolls of mortadella and provolone, wrapped in béchamel and double-crumbed, delivered on flavour and texture. The caramelised shallot compote dip added a gentle sweetness that elevated every bite.

La Torre's Fried Lasagna 4.2/5

A playful and indulgent twist on the classic lasagna is the La Torre's Fried Lasagna ($18 for 5pc). These crispy golden parcels layered with wagyu ragu and cheese are coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. A unique bar snack or starter that delights with every crunch.

Stracciatella Cheese 4/5

Creamy Stracciatella Cheese ($18) is paired with Parma ham, rosemary honey, and marinated cherry tomatoes, then topped with strips of crispy polenta for textural contrast. It is a well-balanced dish of savoury, sweet, and creamy elements.

Tortellini 4.2/5

Though petite, these Tortellini ($16) are packed with a flavourful filling of pork, veal, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Floating in a robust chicken consommé, they showcase the finesse of traditional Emilia-Romagna pasta craftsmanship.

Tagliatelle 4.5/5

An absolute standout is the Tagliatelle ($14 Half/ $28 Full). The beef bolognese, slow-cooked in milk and aromatics, is rich and comforting. Topped with béchamel espuma, Grana Padano, and basil oil, every bite is harmoniously creamy, meaty, and herbaceous.

Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta 4.2/5

Don’t be fooled by the minimalist presentation. Tossed with tomatoes and squacquerone cheese and finished with shallots, the Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is deceptively flavourful with a delightfully chewy bite.

La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna 4.5/5

The La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is a layered beauty of bolognese, béchamel, and mozzarella, baked till bubbling and then pan-fried for a crisp crust. Served with tomato sauce and parmesan cream, this is lasagna with flair and finesse.

"Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta 4/5

The "Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta ($14 Half/ $28 Full) is a denser, thicker egg pasta tossed with Manila clams, lemon-parsley butter, and finished with bottarga and breadcrumbs. A punchy, umami-forward dish that might surprise with its chew but rewards with flavour.

Queensland Baby Barramundi (300-500gram) 4.2/5

Grilled skin-side down over charcoal, the Queensland Baby Barramundi ($38) from Rockypoint Farm offers a clean, sweet, and buttery flavour with firm flakes. Finished with grilled lemon and parsley, it’s simplicity done right.

USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' 4/5

The USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' ($148) is charcoal-grilled to perfection. This ribeye is wonderfully marbled and full of natural flavour. The accompaniments – roasted garlic, salsa verde, and sea salt flakes – enhance without overpowering.

Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes 3.5/5

Leafy Green from our Garden 3/5

Wood-Fried US Asparagus 3/5

To complement the mains, we had a trio of sides: Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes ($16), Leafy Greens from Our Garden ($12), and Wood-Fired US Asparagus ($16). Each was designed to round out the meal, though some stood out more than others.

La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile 4/5

The La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile ($17) is an intriguing dessert combining the creaminess of burrata with the subtle savoury edge of extra virgin olive oil. The rosemary tuile, Parmigiano shavings, and fig vincotto tie it all together with an elegant complexity.

Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' 3.8/5

The Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' ($15) is a classic Italian dessert that features Savoiardi (ladyfinger) biscuits soaked in Herring Cherry Liqueur, layered with vanilla-lemon pastry cream, chocolate mousse, and raspberry gel. Finished with a topping of fresh raspberries and an extra drizzle of raspberry gel, the trifle offers a delightful balance of richness, fruitiness, and a boozy kick.

Lambrusco Poached Pear 4/5

The Lambrusco Poached Pear ($17) is poached in Lambrusco wine and warm spices. This dessert is comforting and aromatic. The combination of pecan crumbs, pistachio gelato, and aged balsamic adds sophistication and balance.

1-Alfaro by MONTI is a stunning addition to Singapore’s Italian dining scene, impressing with its refined execution of regional favourites, creative presentation, and sweeping skyline views. Whether you’re there for a date night, special celebration, or to indulge in soulful Italian fare, La Torre delivers on both quality and experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


1-Alfaro by Monti
Labrador Tower
1 Pasir Panjang Road
#34-00
Singapore 118479
Tel: +65 8093 5683
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Nearest MRT: Labrador Park (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 1am
Sun: 11am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Labrador Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic light junction. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Beok Private Dining - Natural Flavors Through Korean Contemporary Cuisine

Singapore's private dining scene continues to thrive with inventive concepts, and one of the rising stars is Beok Private Dining. Launched in May 2023, Beok offers a unique perspective on contemporary Korean cuisine, infusing traditional elements with modern interpretations in a refined, intimate setting. I finally had the chance to pen down my experience from a visit sometime back when I indulged in their carefully curated Autumn menu.

Makgeolli Bread with Smoked Purple Sweet Potato Butter 4.2/5

The evening began on a promising note with Makgeolli Bread and Smoked Purple Sweet Potato Butter. The bread, soft with a pleasant chew and gentle rice fragrance from the makgeolli, was beautifully elevated by the subtly sweet and smoky butter. It was a warm, comforting introduction to the meal.

Salt-grilled Prawn 4/5 and Bingtteok 4.2/5

Next came a duo of small bites – the Salt-grilled Prawn and Bingtteok. The prawn was fresh and plump, paired with a Fuji apple and lime chojang jelly that delivered a bright medley of acidity and sweetness, teasing the palate with layers of texture. The Bingtteok, a buckwheat pancake topped with kombu and finely shredded white radish, was a lovely surprise. Earthy and umami-rich with a gentle bite, it played beautifully between savoury and refreshing.

Gam Endive Muchim 3/5

The following dish, Gam Endive Muchim, was probably the most restrained in flavour. Slightly bitter endive leaves were dressed in a date-anchovy sauce and topped with biltong and a jujube chip. The textures were interesting, but overall it leaned towards a clean, minimalist profile.

Haemul Tang 4.2/5

Things took a heartier turn with the Haemul Tang, a spicy seafood broth that arrived brimming with flavour. Half-dried mussels, flower crab, and butternut squash added depth and sweetness to the umami-rich broth. It was warm, soothing, and satisfying.

Perilla Noodle 4.5/5

A standout of the night was the Perilla Noodle. The hand-pulled buckwheat noodles were silky yet toothsome, swimming in a nutty, aromatic broth enriched with perilla oil. Garnished with cucumber, nuts, and a touch of jalapeño for a bit of heat, this dish was layered, fragrant, and completely moreish.

Sutbul Moksal 4.2/5

Sutbul Anchang 4.5/5

The centrepiece of the meal came next – grilled meats cooked over binchotan charcoal. First, the Sutbul Moksal, featuring Australia Bangalow sweet pork collar, was well marinated and charred just right, paired with sweet potato leaf jangajji for a tangy counterpoint. Then came the Sutbul Anchang, showcasing a marbled MB7/8 Tajima Wagyu outside skirt, grilled to a perfect medium rare. Juicy, tender, and full of umami, it was easily the highlight among the proteins. That said, the portions were rather petite – each diner only got a small tasting portion, which left us craving a bit more.

Mushroom Gondre Sotbap 4.2/5

Pickles and Soup

To round out the savouries, we had the Mushroom Gondre Sotbap – a comforting bowl of multigrain Korean rice infused with wild thistle and topped with autumn mushrooms. Earthy and nutty, it showcased the beauty of simplicity. A side of soup and house pickles helped cleanse the palate and tie everything together.

Bam & Bac 4/5

Dessert came in the form of Bam & Bac, a delicate and well-composed plate featuring firm yet smooth chestnut yanggaeng, sweet poached pear, a scoop of ice cream, and an artistic fallen leaves tuile. It was a sweet ending with finesse – not too rich, but well-balanced and satisfying.

Overall, Beok Private Dining offers a unique and thoughtful exploration of Korean cuisine beyond the usual fare. The dishes are artfully plated, flavourful, and well-curated, with an elegant progression from start to finish. While some plates felt a little restrained and a couple of portions modest, the overall experience was intimate, elevated, and reflective of the Chef's evolving interpretation of Korean flavours. It is a gem worth experiencing for anyone seeking modern Korean fare with soul.


Beok Private Dining
Farrer Road
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Chen's Kitchen @ Paragon - Bold Chuka Ryori Flavours with Michelin-Quality Comfort Food

Famed Michelin Chef Kentaro of Shisen Hanten debuts a comfort dining concept, Chen's Kitchen, at Paragon Shopping Centre. The new casual family dining concept brings bold Chuka Ryori flavours and his renowned Mapo Tofu to the heart of Singapore. The new concept offers comfort Chinese food with finesse, blending Japanese techniques with rich Szechuan flavours and promising sustainable pricing.

Chen's Pork Shumai 4/5

Chef Kentaro's Szechwan-inspired Pork Shumai ($9.90) The siew mai features juicy, seasoned pork enriched with the umami depth of conpoy. Topped with a touch of mala daikon, it offers a delicate kick that elevates this classic dish. While I enjoyed the version here, my dining companions preferred a firmer texture.

XXL Szechwan La Zi Ji 4.5/5

A store-exclusive dish is the XXL Szechwan La Zi Ji ($17.90), an elevated take on Szechwan Popcorn Chicken with crispy karaage, soy puffs, garlic chips, cashews, aromatic spices, and dried chillies for bold flavour and irresistible crunch. Unlike the traditional La Zi Ji, the size of the chicken is like a chicken nugget, giving it a more substantial bite. The soy puffs give the dish an extra textural contrast.

Poached Fish Fillet in Golden Broth 4.2/5

Another store-exclusive dish on the menu is the Poached Fish Fillet in Golden Broth ($24.90). Chunky, moist, and fork-tender fish fillets are boiled in a golden broth made of Japanese pumpkin, with mushrooms, asparagus, and sansho pepper for a hint of heat or spiciness.

Mapo Tofu (Red) 4.8/5

The star at Chen's Kitchen has to be their Mapo Tofu. Chen's Kitchen offers the classic version and three other innovative variations. We had the Classic Mapo Tofu Red Version ($16.90/$26.90), which comprises soft silky tofu cooked with fermented broad bean paste (Dou Ban Jiang) sourced from the Pixian District in Chengdu, Szechwan pepper-flavoured fermented chilli bean paste, and savoury minced meat.

Szechwan French Beans & Mushroom 4.5/5

For our vegetable dish, we opted for the Szechwan French Beans & Mushroom ($13.90). They are wok-fried in Szechwan spices with minced pork. The dish is well executed, with the greens retaining a delightful crunch and a spice aroma.

Szechwan Spiced Chahan with Sakura Shrimp 4.2/5

Next, we had the Szechwan Spiced Chahan with Sakura Shrimp ($13.90). This is Szechwan-spiced fried rice with sakura shrimp, egg, and garlic. It is a flavoured packed fried rice, with the various aromatics accentuating the enjoyment of the fragrant rice.

Caramelised Mala Pecan Ice Cream 4.2/5

In my wildest imagination, I cannot imagine that this combination actually works. The Caramelised Mala Pecan Ice Cream ($4.80) turns out to be deliciously good. The hint of mala kick with the vanilla ice cream works harmoniously, rounding out the enjoyment with the nuttiness of the Pecan.

Double Boiled Pear 4.5/5

I like the Double-Boiled Pear ($6.90) dessert, which is very fitting for spicy and bold cuisine. This light and refreshing dessert can help ease and wash down the richness and also cool down the tongue for those who can't ready take spicy food.

Chen's Kitchen at Paragon brings Chef Kentaro's signature bold Chuka Ryori flavours into a more casual, accessible dining setting without compromising on quality. From their famous Mapo Tofu to innovative XXL Szechwan La Zi Ji, every dish is thoughtfully crafted with Japanese precision and rich Szechwan influences. The restaurant's affordable pricing and well-executed flavours make it a fantastic option for both quick meals and family gatherings. Whether you're a fan of spicy, umami-packed flavours or comforting, home-style dishes, Chen's Kitchen is well worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chen's Kitchen
Paragon Shopping Centre
200 Orchard Road
#B1-43
Singapore 238859
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line), Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. At the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link, cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 2 or 3. Proceed to the road level. Walk down Orchard Road until the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road and walk to Paragon. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Summer Pavilion @ Ritz-Carlton Singapore - Usher in the Year of the Golden Snake at Summer Pavilion

Celebrate Lunar New Year in style at the one-Michelin-starred Summer Pavilion, where exquisite Cantonese cuisine takes centre stage. This festive season, the restaurant offers a selection of six- to eight-course set lunch and dinner menus, priced from S$158 per pax, available from 13 January to 12 February 2025.

Prickly Sea Cucumber Yu Sheng 4/5

Like every traditional Lunar New Year feast in Singapore, the meal begins with a Yu Sheng tossing, symbolising prosperity and abundance for the year ahead. This year, Summer Pavilion unveils an innovative Prickly Sea Cucumber Yu Sheng, elevating the classic dish with a unique touch.

Steamed Lobster Meat, Egg White, Black Caviar 4.5/5

The meal is then introduced with a duo of amuse-bouche. First is a vibrant Sautéed Prawn paired with cashew nuts, dried chilli, and balsamic pearls, a delightful mix of crunch and tang. Following this is the luxurious Steamed Lobster Meat with Egg White and Black Caviar, a refined interpretation reminiscent of a decadent chawanmushi.

Dim Sum Platter 4.2/5

The Dim Sum Platter impresses with a trio of expertly crafted items: a Steamed Scallop Dumpling, a Poached Prawn Dumpling in Black Vinegar, and a Pan-fried Roasted Duck Bun. Each bite showcases different cooking techniques — steaming, poaching, and pan-frying—highlighting the restaurant's finesse and skill.

Double Boiled Chicken Soup 4.5/5

Next is a comforting Double-boiled Chicken Soup featuring premium ingredients such as fish maw, Matsutake mushrooms, dried scallops, and soaked Nostoc algae. This nourishing soup epitomises the hallmark of Cantonese cooking: balance and depth.

Steamed Dong Xing Grouper Fillet 4.5/5

A signature from Chef Cheung, the Steamed Dong Xing Grouper Fillet is delicately paired with luffa gourd and black fungus. The perfectly steamed fish is tender and sweet, with a light broth that enhances the grouper's natural flavours.

Steamed Vermicelli, King Scallop Caviar, Crab Roe and Egg White 4.8/5

The highlight of the night is the Steamed Vermicelli with King Scallop, Caviar, Crab Roe, and Egg White. This silky, slurp-worthy dish is served in a rich, savoury broth that draws comparisons to Shanghai Crab Roe Noodles. Every element, from the smooth vermicelli to the decadent broth, creates a harmonious and addictive dish that leaves a lasting impression.

Chilled Superior Bird's Nest, Pear, Osmanthus 4.5/5

The meal concludes with the Chilled Superior Bird's Nest, served with osmanthus-infused poached pear. This light, refreshing dessert provides the perfect sweet ending to a luxurious Cantonese feast.

Osmanthus Jelly 4/5

Finally, petite fours are served in the form of Osmanthus Jelly and Osmanthus Sachima — delicate bite-sized treats that add a lovely, nostalgic touch to the dining experience.

Osmanthus Sachima 4/5

Diners celebrating the first 15 days of the Lunar New Year at Summer Pavilion will receive exclusive Ritz-Carlton red packets and a pair of mandarin oranges per reservation. Vegetarian Yu Sheng and Pen Cai are available for takeaway for those looking to host celebrations at home.

For reservations, please call +65 6434 5286 or email rc.sinrz.summerpavilion@ritzcarlton.com.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Summer Pavilion
Ritz-Carlton Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Avenue
Singapore 039799
Tel: +65 64345286
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]