Showing posts with label Ramen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ramen. Show all posts

Friday, November 1, 2024

Ju Kyu Singapore @ Telok Ayer Street - Modern Japanese Restobar Catering to Various Occasions Booasting an Eclectic Menu

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Located in Telok Ayer, Ju Kyu offers a modern Japanese dining experience within an enigmatic space adorned with sakura blossoms and vibrant Japanese motifs. The restaurant caters to various occasions, boasting a full menu ranging from skewers to tapas, small plates, rice dishes, noodles, mains, and desserts. Handcrafted cocktails with a Japanese twist are also one of the key offerings of Jyu Kyu.

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Skewers 3.8/5

Grilled over Bincho-tan charcoal in a traditional Japanese Konro, Jyu Kyu's skewers are a highlight of the menu. We enjoyed a selection that included Pork Belly Enoki ($5.50), Beef Striploin ($6.50), Asparagus ($4.50), and Grilled Corn ($6.50). Each item had a well-executed caramelisation, but the Pork Belly Enoki stood out for its juicy, flavorful bite. The Grilled Corn, dusted with house spices, had great flavour but could have benefitted from a plumper corn cob.

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Chargrilled Squid 3.8/5

The Chargrilled Squid ($22), grilled with care and served with sambal chilli and lime, had a lovely balance of flavours, though the squid could have been juicier for a more satisfying bite.

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Chawanmushi 4/5

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Cold Tofu 4.5/5

We tried the Cold Tofu ($14) from the tapas selection and Chawanmushi ($7.80). The marinated tofu was topped with ikura and furikake, with the marination seemingly infused with century egg, adding an excellent funky depth. The Chawanmushi, brimming with ikura, also surprised us with its generous fillings of salmon and mushrooms.

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Uni & Crab Cracker 4/5

For a unique small plate, the Uni & Crab Cracker ($26) offered a mix of creamy crab rillettes and uni, topped with ikura and served on crispy rice paper puffs. The coriander infusion was subtle, but the contrast between the creamy filling and the crunchy base was delightful.

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Unagi & Eggplant Rice 4.5/5

Under the Rice selection, the Unagi & Eggplant Rice ($26) was a standout, combining smoky, caramelized teriyaki eggplant with perfectly grilled eel. The smokiness of the eggplant added a surprising depth to the otherwise familiar unagi rice bowl, elevating the dish with texture and flavour.

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Pork Belly Tonkotsu Ramen 4.8/5

A surprise hit was the Pork Belly Tonkotsu Ramen ($26). Despite not being a ramen speciality shop, Jyu Kyu delivered a bowl of rich, creamy pork broth hearty with tender chashu served slightly charred, a beautifully marinated ajitsuke tamago, and nicely cooked noodles.

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Miso Black Cod 3.8/5

For Mains, we tried the Miso Black Cod ($34), served with spinach goma-ae was decent but felt like it could use a bit more refinement. While the pairing with goma-ae was thoughtful, the dish didn't quite reach the same heights as other mains.

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Ju Kyu's beautifully decorated interior, featuring sakura-filled ceiling and Japanese illustrations, provides the perfect backdrop for a drink or two. Their curated cocktail menu offers aesthetically pleasing beverages that excite your eyes and palate.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Ju Kyu
198 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068637
Tel:: +65 8819 8000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 11pm
Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 1130pm
Sat: 5pm - 1130pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left and walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, September 14, 2024

Mensho Tokyo @ Raffles City - Award-winning Global Ramen Brand Opens In Singapore with Exclusive Chilli Crab Ramen

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Mensho Tokyo, founded by legendary ramen master Tomoharu Shono in 2005, has landed in Raffles City, Singapore. Known for combining traditional ramen-making with bold and complex flavour profiles, Mensho Tokyo's Singapore outlet boasts exclusive local creations. It is the first Mensho outlet in the world to offer desserts on its menu. Naturally, I had to check it out.

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A5 Wagyu Abura Soba 4.2/5

The most premium item on the menu is the A5 Wagyu Abura Soba ($41). This dish features house-made thick wheat noodles and a sauce crafted from Kioke wood barrel-aged shoyu. The soba is accompanied by two types of Miyazaki A5 Wagyu, spinach, baby asparagus, red onion, truffle paste, charcoal leek, and calamansi. The rich, dry-style ramen highlights the luxurious wagyu cuts, making it a must-try for any beef lover, though the price tag might leave some hesitating.

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Duck Matcha 4.2/5

I was taken aback when I saw Duck Matcha ($28) on the menu. Matcha paired with ramen? Intrigued by the audacity of this creation, I decided to give it a go. Surprisingly, it works! The house-made wavy noodles are served in a creamy chicken matcha broth, topped with tender duck chashu and whipped cream. The harmonious combination offers an intriguing balance of umami and matcha bitterness. However, this dish must be eaten hot, as the matcha powder tends to separate when the broth cools, affecting the overall experience.

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Signature Toripaitan 4.5/5

If it's your first time at Mensho Tokyo, I highly recommend the Signature Toripaitan ($28). Initially priced at $38, it's now more affordable at $28. It is the quintessential dish at Mensho, with house-made wavy wheat noodles, served in a rich and creamy chicken broth, accompanied by a medley of A5 Wagyu chashu, smoked pork chashu, duck chashu, and chicken chashu. Topped with king oyster mushroom menma, truffle sauce, ajitama egg, and fried burdock roots, the flavours are decadent and satisfying. The Classic Toripaitan with just smoked pork chashu is available for a more straightforward option at $19.

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Fujiringo Chamomile and Momo-no Bubbles

Unlike most ramen shops, Mensho Tokyo sets itself apart by offering cocktails, mocktails, and desserts. We tried the Fujiringo Chamomile ($10), made with cold brew chamomile, homemade Fuji apple purée, and sparkling water. The Momo-no Bubbles ($18), a refreshing mix of Japanese peach liqueur, fresh lime, passionfruit, and prosecco, added a delightful effervescence to the meal.

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A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Cavier Sushi (2pc) 4.5/5

We couldn't resist trying the A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Caviar Sushi ($14/2pc). This luxurious sushi swaps the usual seafood for melt-in-your-mouth A5 wagyu, topped with a touch of caviar. The wagyu's fattiness and the caviar's delicate brininess created an elevated sushi experience that's well worth the indulgence.

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Corn Wings 4/5

For sides, we ordered the Corn Wings ($8.80), which were grilled to perfection with an aromatic char that complemented the natural sweetness of the corn. It's a simple yet satisfying side dish that adds a fun twist to the meal.

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Yuzu 4/5

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Houjicha Tiramisu 4.2/5

We tried the Yuzu Sorbet ($8.80) and Houjicha Tiramisu ($8.80) for dessert. The Yuzu sorbet provided a refreshing palate cleanser after the richness of the ramen. The Houjicha Tiramisu was creamy and aromatic with a subtle roasted tea flavour, though the portion size in its shot glass serving felt a little small for the price.

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Overall, Mensho Tokyo offers a unique and refined ramen experience. Despite the use of chicken soup for many of the ramen dishes, the broths are surprisingly rich and creamy, almost like a hybrid between tonkotsu (pork-based broth) and chicken-based ramen. The addition of exclusive dishes, sushi, and desserts elevates the experience even further, making it more than just a ramen stop but a dining destination. It's a little on the pricier side, but the quality justifies the cost. If you're looking for a place that reimagines ramen and offers something beyond the ordinary, Mensho Tokyo is definitely worth a visit!

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mensho Tokyo
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#03-43
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 83808467
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, August 10, 2024

Toast Box @ Takashimaya Shopping Centre - Unveils Latest 'Old-School' Concept Store, Inspired by Classic Kopitiams of Yesteryear

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Singapore's beloved Nanyang coffee chain, Toast Box 土司工坊, has introduced a new concept store at Takashimaya Shopping Centre. This latest outlet pays homage to the classic kopitiams of the past, offering a blend of nostalgia and modernity. It offers exclusive experience sets that celebrate the rich traditions of Singaporean coffee shop culture.

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Kopi/Teh Trio

A standout feature at this Takashimaya store is the store-exclusive Experience Sets, such as the Kopi Trio ($5.50) and Teh Trio ($5.50). These sets allow customers to explore the distinct flavours of traditional kopi and teh, offering a unique opportunity to experience Singapore's iconic way of ordering and enjoying these beloved beverages. It's a delightful and educational journey through the different coffee and tea concoctions, perfect for locals and tourists.

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Toast Experience Set 4/5

No Nanyang coffee experience is complete without the classic toast. The Toast Experience Set ($4.50) lets diners sample a variety of toast combinations, featuring crispy toasted bread served with Nyonya Kaya, Hainanese Kaya, and Crunchy Peanut Butter. The spread-it-yourself style adds a fun, interactive element, allowing you to customise your toast to your liking. Each spread has its unique flavour, making this set a must-try for toast enthusiasts.

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Asian Delight Yuan Yang 4.5/5

For those who want to indulge in a more substantial meal, the Asian Delight Yuan Yang Experience Set ($12) is a perfect choice. This set features two of Toast Box's iconic dishes — Laksa and Curry Chicken — in smaller portions, served with a choice of rice, toast, or roti prata. This combination lets you relish the best of both worlds, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Singapore's diverse culinary heritage.

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Waterfall Kopi/Teh 4.5/5

If you're in the mood for something visually striking and rich in flavour, the Waterfall Kopi/Teh ($4) is a must-try. Prepared in the traditional way, this freshly brewed Nanyang kopi or teh is topped with a thick layer of milky froth. The dramatic pour adds an element of theatre to your dining experience, while the rich, aromatic flavours make it a delightful treat for the senses.

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Mentaiko Egg Sando 4.2/5

The all-new Mentaiko Egg Sando ($5.50) is another exclusive offering at this outlet. Sandwiched between soft and fluffy toast, this sandwich features a creamy mentaiko spread paired with a luscious egg omelette. The sweet and savoury combination is a true delight, offering a modern twist on a classic comfort food.

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Char Siew Ramen 4/5

The Char Siew Ramen ($8.80) and Bak Chor Ramen ($8.80) are excellent choices for those seeking a more substantial meal. The Char Siew Ramen is reminiscent of traditional char siew wanton noodle soup, but with a twist — ramen noodles are used instead of the usual springy noodles, and the dish is topped with pork char siew and a sunny-side-up egg, though it does not include wanton.


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Bak Chor Ramen 4.2/5

On the other hand, the Bak Chor Ramen is a reimagined version of the local Bak Chor Mee. This dish features ramen noodles in a robust broth infused with chilli and fragrant vinegar, accompanied by pork slices, minced pork, pork lard, prawns, mushrooms, and fish cake. The combination of flavours and textures makes this dish a bowl of slurping goodness, perfect for those who enjoy bold, hearty flavours.

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To end your meal on a sweet note, Toast Box offers a selection of nostalgic cakes, such as the All Chocolate Cake, Black Sesame Cake, and Old School Happy Birthday Cake. These desserts are a delightful throwback to the flavours of yesteryears, providing a perfect finish to your nostalgic journey at Toast Box.

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Toast Box's new concept store at Takashimaya Shopping Centre successfully blends the charm of old-school kopitiams with contemporary dining, offering exclusive experience sets that celebrate Singapore's rich coffee culture and culinary heritage. Whether you're stopping by for a quick kopi or indulging in a full meal, this new outlet promises a unique and memorable experience for all who visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Toast Box
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
391B Orchard Road
#B2-30
Singapore 238872
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line), Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 730am - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight at Ngee Ann City until destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

IPPUDO with BAR IPPUDO @ Shaw Centre - Refreshed Hakata Dining Experience with IPPUDO’s 2024 Grand Menu, Featuring Bar Snacks and 5 New Ramen

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Starting 1 June, Hakata ramen chain IPPUDO is launching a refreshed grand menu featuring 5 brand new ramen options, rice dishes, sides and desserts. This includes the brand's first plant-based ramen. BAR IPPUDO at Mohamad Sultan, One Holland Village, i12 Katong and Shaw Centre will also introduce a new range of bar snacks.

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IPPUDO x Umeshuya

From 20 to 21 June 2024, diners can enjoy a special IPPUDO x Umeshuya collaboration featuring a curated selection of over 15 types of umeshu exclusively at IPPUDO One Holland Village.

Special deals for the collaboration include:
- Order 1 bar snack and top up $22 for 30-mins free-flow umeshu
- Order 1 bar snack and top up $15 for 3 glasses of your choice
- Ala Carte $7 per glass

My favourite among the 3 glasses I tried was the TOROTORO NO UMESHU, a sweet green plum and shochu-based umeshu.

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Mentaiko Mac N’ Cheese 3/5

Our first choice of bar snack was served sizzling hot on a teppan plate. The Mentaiko Mac N’ Cheese ($10) featured a buttery bed of macaroni with melted cheese and a dollop of mentaiko. While its taste was decent, we were definitely expecting more at this price.

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Fried Brussel Sprout Typhoon Shelter 4.2/5

We loved our second bar snack, the Fried Brussel Sprout Typhoon Shelter ($6). These addictive mouthfuls of crunchy fried brussel sprouts were dressed in a savoury anchovy sauce and garlic panko.

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Yokohama Shoyu 4/5

For a heartier ramen with more meat, we heard that the new Chikara Tonkotsu Ramen is the one to go for. The tonkatsu-based ramen is a new spin on the classic IPPUDO Shiromaru Ramen and comes with slices of the same chashu and half a ramen egg. We decided on the Yokohama Shoyu ($19) instead, which marries the Hakata-style pork bone broth and shoyu, topped with spinach, bamboo shoot and seaweed. There was also a huge rectangular slice of pork belly chashu with a lower fat-to-meat ratio.

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Nirvana NY 4.2/5

We couldn’t leave without checking out the intriguing plant-based ramen, Nirvana NY ($18). We were more than surprised by the robust plant-based broth, which was both creamy and nutty, enhanced by the fragrance of onion oil.

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Here, you will be served hand-pressed wavy noodles, a slice of grilled eggplant chasu, enoki tempura, grated carrots, and spring onion. While I wished there were a few more ingredients to justify the price tag better, it was a delightful bowl to enjoy.

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.


IPPUDO with BAR IPPUDO
Shaw Centre
#04-22/23
1 Scotts Road
Singapore 228208
Tel: +65 6235 2547
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (TE, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri; 11.30am - 9.20pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 9.20pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Take the underpass to Shaw House. Walk to ground level. Walk to Shaw Centre next door. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Mashi No Mashi @ Guoco Midtown - – Chef Hisato Hamada, founder of WAGYUMAFIA Opens 100% Wagyu Ramen Concept in Singapore

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Mashi No Mashi, located at Guoco Midtown, is a ramen concept by Wagyumafia, a collective of restaurants renowned for harnessing the qualities and versatility of Japan's most famous beef through various culinary concepts. Founded by Chef Hisato Hamada, Wagyumafia prides itself on working directly with farmers and selecting only the top 1% of the finest Kobe and Ozaki beef. Since its establishment in 2019, Mashi No Mashi has been acclaimed for serving the world's first 100% Wagyu ramen.

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Wagyu Tsukemen 4/5

The dish that brought Mashi No Mashi to fame is its signature Wagyu Tsukemen, featuring succulent slices of slow-cooked Ozaki beef paired with their signature noodles. The accompanying dipping broth, a 24-hour stewed Wagyu bone broth, was rich in umami and full-bodied, perfectly complementing the thicker-cut noodles with an enjoyable chewy texture. While the ramen as a whole provided a deeply satisfying mouthfeel and flavour, I found the alkaline taste of the noodles less appealing.

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Ultra Wagyu Ramen 4.8/5

Ultra Wagyu Ramen ($22) is the brand's first-ever fukuoka Hakata-style ramen, and Singapore is the first outpost to permanently feature it on its menu. This beef-centric Hakata-style ramen broth is made using the finest wagyu bones, which undergo a laborious three-stage heating process to extract maximum flavour and aroma. The broth was an absolute pleasure to savour, together with the luscious pieces of wagyu char siew.

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Wagyu Bak Kut Teh 4.5/5

This outlet also launched a Singapore-exclusive menu, starting with Wagyu Bak Kut Teh ($30). Served with a peppery homemade wagyu bone stock, traditional Bak Kut Teh purists may not favour this dish as much. Personally, I love this rendition, which was delightful with a heady, garlicky, and peppery broth. The texture and flavour of the meat were exceptional as well. However, with the price tag, it can definitely be more wholesome with the portions of the You Tiao and Preserved Vegetables.

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Wagyu Cha Siu Donburi 4/5

There are also donburi options available, such as the Wagyu Cha Siu Donburi ($32), which showcases slices of Wagyu Cha Siu draped over Ginger Beef Akitakomachi Rice. The plump and pearly rice was so moreish mixed with flavourful minced ginger beef that it almost stole the spotlight.

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Wagyu Gyoza 5/5

The Dim Sums here are highly recommended. Wagyu Gyoza ($8 for 2pc) uses 100% Ozaki Beef. Each piece was filled with four different cuts of juicy Ozaki beef and minced vegetables, achieving a succulent bite in every mouthful.

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Wagyu Siu Mai 5/5

Offering a similar bite and satisfaction is Wagyu Siu Mai ($15). The texture was on point.

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Sui Gyoza 4/5

The other two dim sums we tried were well executed: Black Bean Spare Ribs ($15), featuring Steamed Wagyu Spare Ribs with Black Bean and Garlic Sauce, and Sui Gyoza, boiled wagyu gyoza drizzled with tangy Japanese sansho chilli sauce. In fact, I enjoyed them much more than the traditional pork versions.

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Black Bean Spare Ribs 4/5

More Singapore-exclusive dishes, such as wagyu laksa and hokkien mee, will be rolled out later in the year. An interesting beverage menu with inventive cocktails is also available, including Chef Hisato's proprietary rendition of a Singapore sling ($18).

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Mashi No Mashi
Guoco Midtown
124 Beach Road
#01-04
Singapore 189771
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to Tan Quee Lan Street. Turn left and walk down Tan Quee Lan Street to Beach Road. At Beach Road, cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station Take Exit F. Walk straight down Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]