Showing posts with label Private Dining. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Private Dining. Show all posts

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Baan Ah Chew Private Dining - A Communal Style Thai Cuisine Private Dining

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Baan Ah Chew Private Dining offers an authentic, communal Thai dining experience full of traditional flavours and rare dishes steeped in history. My long-anticipated visit didn't disappoint, delivering a memorable meal highlighting Thai cuisine's complex, vibrant taste profiles. Baan Ah Chew brings a more communal approach compared to the fine-dining style of Pun Im. Yet, each dish is meticulously crafted, drawing from the Snidwongse family recipes and other heritage sources.

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Khao Tang Na Dang Ped Yang 4.5/5

We started with Khao Tang Na Dang Ped Yang, a roasted duck dip with sawtooth coriander and nutmeg curry paired with rice crackers. Inspired by the Snidwongse Family Cookbook, this dish had rich, bold flavours that hit the senses like a train, setting the tone for the rest of the meal.

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Mahor 3.5/5

Next was Mahor, a unique bite-sized snack with caramelised salted Chinese radish and peanut relish served over fresh orange segments. The sweet acidity of the orange balanced the richness of the relish, creating a refreshing contrast.

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Miang Som 4/5

The Miang Som was a delightful one-bite wrap that paired seasonal fruits with a caramelised shallot relish, adding a touch of sweetness and zest. Inspired by Lady Jeeb Bunnag's recipes, this dish was refreshing and highlighted the balance of flavours Thai cuisine is known for.

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Pla Haeng Taeng Mo 4/5

Continuing with fruit-forward starters, Pla Haeng Taeng Mo — a watermelon salad with sun-dried black kingfish floss and crispy shallots was next. This dish, oringally served at the inauguration of King Rama I in 1809, showcased a deliciously harmonious mix of fruity sweetness and savoury fish floss.

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Yum Strawberry 4/5

Yum Strawberry was a fun twist on fruit salad, with strawberries dressed in a zesty chili and lemon dressing and topped with toasted coconut flakes. The dressing enhanced the strawberries' sweetness, adding a punch of flavour.

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Yum Mamaung 3.8/5

The Yum Mamaung, a Thai mango and mandarin orange salad with spicy lime dressing, was incredibly delicious. The sweet and tangy combination, highlighted by the citrus notes of mandarin, made this dish a standout.

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Yum Kun Chiang 4.2/5

Yum Kun Chiang, a Thai-Chinese salad of Chinese sausage and cucumber with a chilli garlic lime dressing, was a firework of flavours. Each bite showcased Thai cuisine's vibrant, characteristic profiles with its spicy, tangy, and savoury notes.

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Gaeng Jeud Dtai Kraduk Moo Cha Muong 4.5/5

The Gaeng Jeud Dtai Kraduk Moo Cha Muong, a Southern-style clear stew with pork ribs and shredded cowa leaves, may look simple, but it packs an unexpected sour punch, elevating the mild flavours of the pork and greens.

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Moo Hong 4/5

Moo Hong, a Southern Thai-Chinese braised pork belly stew with cinnamon and star anise, was hearty and comforting, perfect with steamed rice. I was pleasantly surprised by the use of cinnamon and star anise, which added an aromatic depth.

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Lon Khai Khem Goong 4/5 and Nam Prik Kapi 3.5/5

We had two rich relishes next: Lon Khai Khem Goong, a creamy dip made of salted duck eggs, shrimp, and coconut cream, and Nam Prik Kapi, a pounded fermented shrimp paste relish. Both were robust in flavour and complemented by fresh vegetables for dipping.

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Phla Hoi 4/5

Phla Hoi paired blanched oysters with lemongrass and a chilli jam herb salad, offering a refreshing take on oysters that opened my eyes to new pairing possibilities with this unique Thai flavour profile.

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Yum Som O Goong 4.8/5

One of my favourites was Yum Som O Goong, a pomelo and seared tiger prawn salad tossed in creamy chilli jam dressing. The pomelo's sweetness paired beautifully with the fresh, crunchy prawn, making this dish a satisfying treat.

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Bai Liang Pad Kai 4/5

I also tried Bai Liang Pad Kai, stir-fried melinjo leaves with garlic and egg. The mildly bitter leaves gained a lovely fragrance from the garlic and eggs, a unique addition to the meal.

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Gaeng Khua Gati Gai Sai Fak Thong 3.8/5

The Gaeng Khua Gati Gai Sai Fak Thong, a Southern-style coconut curry with chicken and pumpkin, was both savoury and aromatic. The sweet undertones of the pumpkin paired perfectly with the creamy, spicy coconut base.

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Pad Mak Khea Yao Moo Saab 4.5/5

Pad Mak Khea Yao Moo Saab reminded me of the Chinese "Yu Xiang Eggplant" but with a Thai twist. Stir-fried to retain a slight crunch, the eggplant was combined with minced pork and Thai basil, resulting in a beautifully fragrant dish.

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Pad Krapao Neau Nippon 4.5/5

Another excellent dish was the Pad Krapao Neau Nippon, which featured stir-fried Japanese wagyu beef with holy basil and chillies. The rich, marbled beef paired perfectly with the aromatic herbs and spices, adding a touch of Thai character to the premium ingredient.

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Kanom Tako 4.2/5

For dessert, we enjoyed three traditional Thai sweets. Kanom Tako was a delightful Thai corn pudding topped with salted coconut foam pudding, creating a balanced sweet and savoury finish. Piak Poon featured pandan pudding with toasted sesame seeds, while Kanom Lin Taa Nin was a Thai pandan custard ball with smoked coconut milk syrup. Both showcased the fragrant qualities of pandan, rounding out the meal with a taste of traditional Thai flavours.

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Piak Poon 3.8/5 and Kanom Lin Taa Nin 3/5

Baan Ah Chew Private Dining offers a communal-style Thai dining experience that blends heritage recipes with bold flavours. The carefully crafted dishes introduce rare ingredients and historical flavours, each telling a story that enhances the dining experience. For those looking to explore authentic Thai cuisine, Baan Ah Chew is an exciting find that captures the essence of Thai culinary heritage.


Baan Ah Chew Private Dining
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Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Linda's Table Private Dining @ Pandan Valley - A Journey Through Cantonese Flavours

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Linda's Table is one of my favourite private dining spots in Singapore, known for its authentic Peranakan dishes. However, Linda sometimes delves into her treasure trove of Cantonese dishes for her regular guests, offering a menu filled with tradition and heart. In July 2024, we had the privilege of trying Linda's Cantonese menu, and it was a dining experience filled with comfort, nostalgia, and excellent execution.

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Five Treasure Platter 4/5

Our feast started with the Five Treasure Platter, a collection of familiar Cantonese bites reminiscent of traditional Chinese wedding dinners. The platter featured Ngoh Hiang, Spring Roll, Mayonnaise Prawn, Jelly Fish, and Osmanthus Scrambled Egg. Each element was well-prepared, but my favourite had to be the delicate Osmanthus Scrambled Egg. While not a dish with bold flavours, it was a pleasant and classic way to start the meal.

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Fresh Coconut Chicken Soup 5/5

A standout dish of the evening was the Fresh Coconut Chicken Soup. It's hard to describe just how delightful this soup was — there was no added salt, yet it was packed with the natural sweetness of fresh coconut juice and the richness of the essence of chicken. A perfect balance of sweetness and umami that warmed the soul. This dish was simple but executed to perfection and easily my favourite of the night.

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Crayfish Chee Cheong Fun 4.5/5

Making a grand entrance was the Crayfish Chee Cheong Fun, a delightful and indulgent dish. The large, plump crayfish sat atop a bed of silky homemade chee cheong fun (rice noodle rolls) drenched in premium soy sauce and topped with crispy lardons and spring onions. The chee cheong fun absorbed the rich soy sauce, while the crayfish provided that sweet seafood flavour. The lardons added a crunchy texture that brought the entire dish together.

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Roasted Spiced Quails 4/5

The Roasted Spiced Quails were another treat — crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. Deep-fried to a golden brown, the quails were placed on a bed of crispy rice crackers, almost as if resting on a cloud. The seasoning was on point, and it wasn't overly greasy.

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Stir Fried You Mai Cai with Fried Dace and Black Beans 4.5/5

Being a fan of You Mai Cai, I was thrilled to see this on the menu, and it was even better when paired with fried dace and black beans. The vegetables retained a delightful crunch, and the flavours from the fried dace and black beans brought a salty, umami-rich depth to the dish. A simple vegetable stir-fry was elevated into something exceptional.

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Fresh Lemon Wings with Ginger 4.8/5

The Fresh Lemon Wings with Ginger delivered on all fronts — sweet, tangy, sticky, and umami-packed. The lemon sauce coated the wings beautifully, giving every bite a burst of flavour. The ginger added a subtle spice that complemented the sweetness of the sauce, making it an all-around satisfying dish.

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Pork Lard Rice with Liver Sausage 4.8/5

No meal at Linda's Table is complete without her signature Pork Lard Rice, a crowd favourite. This time, she added liver sausage to the mix, introducing another layer of flavour that took this indulgent dish to new heights. The richness from the crispy pork lard, paired with the savoury liver sausage, made it an absolute hit. This dish is all about indulgence, and it was thoroughly enjoyed.

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Stewed Beef Pot 4.5/5

The Stewed Beef Pot was another hearty, comforting dish — featuring tender beef shin, tripe, tendon, homemade beef balls, and radish. The mildly spicy sauce brought all the ingredients together beautifully, each bite brimming with beefy goodness. It was a treasure trove of textures and flavours, perfect for sharing.

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Lemongrass Poached Pears 4.5/5

We ended our meal on a refreshing note with Lemongrass Poached Pears. The pears were poached until tender and served with a lemongrass jelly that provided a cool, refreshing contrast to the richness of the earlier dishes. It was the perfect light dessert to wrap up a satisfying meal.

Linda’s Table continues to impress, offering both familiar comfort dishes and unique Cantonese delights. Whether you’re indulging in the sweet, coconut-infused chicken soup or savouring the richly seasoned pork lard rice, you can feel the love and care that goes into each dish. Linda’s Cantonese menu proves that her culinary expertise goes beyond Peranakan cuisine, making it a top choice for private dining in Singapore. For those looking for a warm, hearty, and traditional dining experience with a modern twist, Linda’s Table is not to be missed.


Linda's Table Private Dining
Pandan Valley
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Saturday, September 28, 2024

Drunken Cat Private Dining - Japanese Cuisine Infused with Asian Influences

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Drunken Cat Private Dining is one of the newer establishments that graces Singapore's home private dining scene. It brings a refreshing twist with its unique blend of Japanese cuisine infused with Asian influences. The majority of private dining menus typically feature Peranakan, Thai, or Chinese fare, making Drunken Cat a standout option for those looking for something a little different. Hosted by Amanda Loo, this dining experience offers a thoughtful and well-crafted six-course meal ($148nett per pax).

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Nama Sotong 4.2/5

The meal kicked off with the Nama Sotong. Thinly sliced, fresh Aori Ika (Japanese bigfin reef squid) is served with a vibrant green curry-like sauce, giving the delicate squid a rich depth of flavour. The chamame (green soybeans) add a welcome contrast in texture, while the kabosu (a Japanese citrus) elevates the dish with a bright and zesty note. This light yet flavourful starter really sets the tone for the meal.

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Summer Breeze 4.2/5

Following the sotong, we were treated to Summer Breeze, a refreshing dish featuring Aji (horse mackerel). The Aji, known for its strong flavour, is balanced by a coconut-based sauce that softens the fish's natural brininess. Crispy puffs were added to the dish, providing a delightful contrast in texture, rounding out this course in both flavour and crunch.

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Green with Curry 4.2/5

The next course, Green with Curry, offers a trio of ingredients, each with a unique texture. Awabi (abalone), with its sweet and bouncy texture, takes centre stage, while lightly battered Kamo Nasu (Japanese eggplant) and Yamaimo (mountain yam) add both flavour and balance to the dish. The Japanese-inspired curry sauce ties everything together, offering warmth and spice without overpowering the delicate ingredients.

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Challenger Tsukemen 4.5/5

The highlight of the evening was, without a doubt, the Challenger Tsukemen. Our group has dined at various home private dining establishments, but this was the first time we encountered tsukemen on the menu. This dish featured Hokkaido pork collar chashu, ajitama (soft-boiled egg), and handmade noodles that had the perfect bite. The broth was a masterful blend of kombu, katsuobushi, niboshi, and gyofun (dried fish powder), giving it an intense umami depth. The tare (dipping sauce) was uniquely infused with roasted Aji bones, creating a rich and memorable flavour profile. It was clear that each component was thoughtfully prepared, making this dish a standout.

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Donabe of the Week 4.5/5

The Donabe of the Week was Wagyu Donabe with Mushroom. Cooked in a traditional claypot, the dish made a grand entrance, and the fragrant aroma of the rice mixed with the umami richness of mushrooms and wagyu beef filled the room. The dish was hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavour — definitely a highlight for those who enjoy rice dishes with a rich, earthy taste.

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Dark and Sunny

The meal concluded with a dessert called Dark and Sunny, a medley of textures and flavours. The dessert featured a scoop of chocolate ice cream alongside cake, peanut candy, and pomelo, all served together with a zesty citrus sabayon. While I appreciated the creativity, I personally felt that there were too many components at play. However, the peanut candy stood out, providing a nostalgic crunch that paired well with the smoother elements of the dish.

Overall, Drunken Cat Private Dining offers a refreshing change from Singapore's typical home private dining offerings. The thoughtful blending of Japanese and Asian flavours created a unique and memorable dining experience. The Challenger Tsukemen was the star of the meal, while the Wagyu Donabe and the opening Nama Sotong further solidified the restaurant's innovative approach to private dining. For those looking to explore new culinary landscapes in the home private dining scene, Drunken Cat is definitely worth a visit.


Drunken Cat Private Dining
23 Akyab Road
Singapore 309978
Tel: +65 9008 4647
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Thursday, April 11, 2024

Salut Private Dining @ Grange Heights - A New Private Dining Concept By Chef Karl Dobler

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Celebrate and entertain your friends and loved ones in this beautiful, intimate space. Welcome to Salut Private Dining, a new dining concept helmed by Karl and Jessica - one with excellent culinary skills, the other with impeccable taste.

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Austrian Chef Karl Dobler's culinary repertoire spans from Michelin-starred restaurants to luxury hotels across Europe and Australia. You might also remember him from Flutes Restaurant or then Restaurant Salut Private Dining in Dempsey. With great respect for classic flavours and culinary techniques, Chef Karl personally sources fresh seasonal ingredients and carefully prepares them. While contemporary European cuisine is his speciality, he is adept at Asian and Peranakan cooking and whips up a very popular Prawn Noodles. Meanwhile, Jessica works her magic to create the perfect ambience for your dinner event and can set the table for personalised themes. Tonight, we're enjoying a romantic candlelit table set with white roses and artfully strewn crystals.

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As guests stream in, smartly dressed wait staff warmly welcome them with flutes of champagne and canapés of the most luxurious degree - smoked salmon with cream cheese & caviar, beef cheeks mini puffs and burrata & tomato mini toasts. Feel free to bring your own wines and spirits. There is no corkage charge. A generous policy!

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A dish of Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio appears in front of us. It's delicately sliced and draped like a flower, drizzled with truffle soy dressing and some olive pearls.

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As White Asparagus is in season, the Chef prepares it as a warm appetiser served with a soft hen egg, truffle hollandaise and bellota ham, which is the finest grade of Jamón ibérico with a smooth texture and a rich, savoury taste.

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Next comes a pan-seared NZ Bass Grouper prepared with artichoke mash, edamame, and scampi glaze. The fish's flesh is firm, white, and flaky. Delicious!

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We got to try the Chef's signature Crispy Roasted Suckling Pig, which had a crackling skin. It is served with smoked pancetta cabbage, rosemary potatoes, and star anise jus.

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The dessert was well-timed. We caught an aromatic whiff of the soufflés baking as we were about to finish our main course. Out from the kitchen came those piping hot ramekins of Passionfruit Soufflé, baked with real fruit bits. It was delightfully melty and absolutely enjoyable.

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We thought dinner had come to an end but were presented with Hand-rolled Hazelnut Chocolate Truffles. As a chocolate lover, I can only say that I wished I had the whole tray to myself.

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Afterwards, a fine selection of Cheese, Dried Fruits, and Crackers accompanied the post-dinner wine and conversation.

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Although newly opened, Salut Private Dining has already received strong interest from regulars, who invite Chef Karl to their homes for private catering. A minimum party of 6 persons is required, and the dining room can accommodate up to 20. Typically, a 5-course menu starts from $198 per pax, with no service charge or GST. If interested, do reserve at least 2 weeks to 1 month in advance.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavors and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Salut Private Dining
Grange Heights
15 Saint Thomas Walk
Singapore 238145
Tel: +65 9831 3067
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Website
Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Direction:
1) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk to bus stop at Riva Lodge (Stop ID 13071). Take bus number 32, 54, 139 or 195. Alight 1 stop later. Walk to Saint Thomas Walk street. Turn right onto Saint Thomas Walk street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk down River Valley Road towards Saint Thomas Walk. Turn left onto Saint Thomas Walk. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]