Outback Steakhouse @ Orchard Gateway

I wonder what took the world largest steakhouse chain so long to open a second outlet in Singapore. Outback Steakhoue, the American chain with an Australian inspired concept established its flagship store in 2000 at Millenia Walk. With the opening of Orchard Gateway, Outback Steakhouse has finally opened its second outlet on the fourth floor of the new mall on 30 June 2014.

Fruit Cocktail 4/5

Starting with some pre-dining drinks, we tried a trio of fruity cocktails from the bar. From left to the right we have the Strawberry Basil Lemonade ($13.90), Absolut Citron vodka, fresh basil and strawberries, fresh lemonade, sprite. In the centre is the Apple Mojito ($12.90), Bacardi Silver rum, diced red apples,limes and mint. Lastly the Watermelon Margarita ($14.90), fresh watermelon, Jose Cuervo Silver Tequila, citrus juices, served in a sugar rimmed glass. I really enjoy the freshing and fruity cocktail with my favourite going to the strawberry basil lemonade.

Spinach Artichoke Dip 4.2/5

I was trying to control myself from going back for more of the freshly fried corn Tortilla chips with the Spinach Artichoke Dip ($13.90). The warm dip melange of spinach, artichoke, Monterey Jack cheese and Paramesan cheese was creamy and cheesy which goes very well with the chips. Perfect as a snack to go with a couple of drinks or appetizer.

Alice Springs Chicken 4.5/5

Although it is a steakhouse, the menu also offers a selection of other mains. The Alice Springs Chicken ($25.90) served with Aussie Fries was surprisingly good. I thought the piece of flame grilled chicken breast looked kind of over done but it was the opposite. The moist and tender flame grilled chicken dressed with sauteed mushrooms, crispy bacon strips, melted Monterey Jack cheese, Cheddar and honey mustard sauce was packed with abundance of flavours that complemented the chicken excellently.

Tilpia with Pure Lump Crab Meat 3/5

From the sea, we have the Tilpia with Pure Lump Crab Meat ($27.90) served with seasonal vegetables. I thought the dish was mediocre. It needed more character to it.

New York Strip 3/5

Mashed Potatoes 4/5

As a steakhouse I was quite disappointed with New York Strip ($36.90/10oz) seasoned with a secret blend of 17 spices. The cut of beef which is prized for its flavour and tenderness was a tad over cooked and tough. All steak orders come with a choice of two sides from an extensive list of nine that includes Corns on the Cob, Mashed Potatoes, Baked Potatoes, Aussie Fries, Rice Pilaf, Sweet Potato Fries and Sweet Baked Potato with honey butter and cinnamon sugar. Worthy of mentioned is the mashed potatoes that was well seasoned, buttery and comes with potato skins for the extra crunch.

Baby Back Ribs 3.8/5

The Baby Back Ribs (half 19.90, full $32.90) laced with a tangy house made BBQ sauce and accompanied by Aussie Fries were cooked with fork tender. If the baby back ribs could be more charred or smoky would be perfect.

Carrot Cake 3/5

Moving on to the dessert menu, I tried a huge slice of the Carrot Cake ($9.90). I have to say this is the most moist carrot cake I have ever eaten.

Chocolate Thunder from Down Under 4/5

The Chocolate Thunder from Down Under ($14.90) is pretty impressive with its three tier of sweetness in the pecan brownie, vanilla ice cream and whipped cream drowned in a bed of warm chocolate sauce and topped with chocolate shavings. A perfect ending to a night of flavourful food and friendly service.


Outback Steakhouse
Orchard Gateway
277 Orchard Road
#04-01
Singapore 238858
Tel: +65 67026842
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OutbackSG
Website: http://outback-sea.com
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 1030pm

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

Kenny Rogers Roasters @ Great World City

Rotisserie Chicken 4/5

The last time I visit Kenny Rogers Roasters was probably more than ten years back at the Suntec City branch. I still remember back then it was self service, one needed to order and pay at the counter before proceeding down the line to collect the food. Service has since changed. Your order is now taken by the waiter/waitress and the food is being served to you.

My partner and I ordered the Lucille ($41.90) which comes with half rotisserie chicken, half slab of honey bourbon ribs and a choice of 3 regular side dishes. The Rotisserie Chicken was surprisingly better some restaurants I have tried. The rotisserie chicken was roasted to perfection, the meat was juicy and tender.

Honey Bourbon Ribs 4/5

The fell off the bone Honey Bourbon Ribs was simply finger licking good. The tender meat with the beautiful sauce worked in harmony for one of the better ribs I have eaten.

Potato Salad 3.5/5

Macaroni & Cheese 4/5 and Coleslaw 3/5

Kenny Rogers Roasters has 14 different sides dishes on the menu categorized under hot and cold sides. For our choices of 3 sides, we opted for the Potato Salad, Macaroni & Cheese and Coleslaw. Among the three, my favourite was the macaroni & cheese. Not because it was the best but the potato salad was over dressed with mayonnaise while I didn't enjoy the onions in the coleslaw.

Corn Muffin 4/5

Besides the signature rotisserie chicken at Kenny Rogers Roasters, the other memory I have is the Corn Muffin. Upon taking our orders, complimentary corn muffin was served. It definitely didn't disappoint me and it was still as good as before.

Kenny Rogers Roasters has been around for more than 20 years and it just showed that they are still dishing out delectable food to their customers. Furthermore, the value for money pricing is a welcome venue for budget seeker, big families and friends gathering.


Kenny Rogers Roasters
Great World City
1 Kim Seng Promenade
#01-06/20
Singapore 237994
Website: http://www.kennyrogersroasters.com/abt_tb.shtml
Tel: +65 67349492
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (NE Line, EW Line), Somerset (NS Line), Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 930pm
Sat: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Somerset MRT station (Stop ID B08121). Take bus number 16 or 175. Alight 6 bus stops later. Journey time about 10 minutes.

2) Alight at Outram MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop opposite Outram MRT station. (Stop ID B06011). Take bus number 75 or 970. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to Great World City. Journey time about 12 minutes.

3) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Tiong Bahru MRT station (Stop ID 10169). Take bus number 5, 16 or 195. Alight 4 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes.

Modern Asian Diner (MAD) @ The Grandstand

Helmed by TungLok Group, Bar Stories and Dick Lee, Modern Asian Diner (MAD) at the Grandstand combines 5 dining experiences into 1. This five in one collaboration features a bar from Bar Stories; a charcoal powered Josper Oven to enchance the flavour of meats and seafood; a Omakase style tapas counter; a wine cellar and tasting room by Top Wines; and a bakery and bread boutique by Bakerzin.

Completing the atmosphere of nostalgia and modernity, MAD also features a curated retail gallery that displays and sells uniquely designed MAD merchandise and orginial creations by up and coming local talents.

Oolong Collins

Squarepants

Peru With Love

Reently I was introduced to bespoke cocktails by Bar Stories and I didn't expect to revisit the experience so soon. The bar at MAD is manned by famed mixologist Kino from Bar Stories. The artistic and innovative cocktails creations left a deep impression.

With a bakery from Bakerzin under one roof, diners are served with complimentary freshly baked artisan breads.

Foie Gras Terrine, Pineapple Chutney, Black Olive Crumble and Vanilla Oil 3/5

The Foie Gras Terrine was nice but did not really get me excited. I still prefer my foie gras pan seared. Nevertheless, the sweetness of the pineapple chutney goes very well with the foie gras. I also enjoyed spreading the foie gras over the bread and eating it that way. I felt that the black oilve crumber was a bit redundant and it was quite hard.

Teriyaki Glazed Mushrooms with Cuttlefish Tagliatelle 4.5/5

My favourite for the night is the Teriyaki Glazed Mushrooms with Cuttlefish Tagliatelle. I like how the cuttlefish was presented. It has a nice firm and springy texture. Paired with the teriyaki glazed mushroom, the dish comes with an enjoyable dimensions of textures and flavours.

Flaky Raddish and Ham Pastry 4/5

The Flaky Raddish and Ham Pastry resembles the yam pastry we usually have over dim sum. The raddish and ham is a good change to the normal sweet yam filling.

Deep Fried Beef Spring Roll 3/5

The huge cigar look alike Deep Fried Beef Spring Roll was kind of fun snack. Each bite into the crispy spring roll is filled with the beef filling, bursting with beautiful flavour.

Baby Back Ribs with Homemade Barbeque Sauce 4.2/5

The full slab of Baby Back Ribs with Homemad Barbeque Sauce was simply finger licking good. The tender meat slipped off the bone easily and the lovely homemade barbeqe sauce was excellent. It was so good that I ditched my fork and knife and just picked it up with my bare hand.

Mushroom Risotto with Poached Egg 4.5/5

Although the rice absorbed the beautiful flavours, the rice was still firm with a nice bite. Each mouthful of the Mushroom Risotto with Poached Egg was bursting with rich earthy mushroom flavours.

Rum and Banana Tatin with Vanilla Ice Cream 4/5

MAD also offers a dessert menu to complete the meal on a sweet note. I tried the Rum and Banana Tatin with Vanilla Ice Cream. The lovely caramelized banana of the upside tart with the soft pastry and ice cream completed the dinner with a smile.

MAD is a bakery, cafe and dim sum place in the day and then a restaurant and cocktail bar at night. It has something for everyone. A very interesting, bold and fresh concept.

[CLOSED]
Mondern Asian Diner (MAD)
The Grandstand, Turf City
200 Turf Club Road
#01-20/21
Singapore 287994
Tel: +65 64663303
Website: http://www.modernasiandiner.com
Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 10am - 1030pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Sixth Avenue MRT station. Take Exit A. Use the overhead bridge to exit B. Walk to Turf Club Road. Continue on Turf Club Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 20 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Sixth Avenue MRT station. Take Exit A. Use the overhead bridge to exit B. Walk down Dunearn Road towards Turf Club Road, to bus stop opposite Sixth Avenue Centre (Stop ID 42019). Wait for The Grandstand Shuttle Bus. 15 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Sixth Avenue MRT  station. Take Exit A. Walk down Bukit Timah Road. Walk to bus stop at Sixth Avenue Centre (Stop ID 42011). Wait for The Grandstand Shuttle Bus. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Le Bistrot du Sommelier @ Armenian Street

Jacob floated the idea with Maureen, Shiting and me that we should do a monthly dinner thingy to dine at restaurant that we want to check out. After throwing a few suggestions we decided to check out Le Bistrot du Sommelier that has moved from its previous location at Prinsep Street to their new home at Armenian Street.

Braised Pig Trotter 4/5

Jacob and Shiting both had the Braised Pig Trotter ($36) stuffed with veal sweetbreads served with steamed vegetables and mash potatoes. The portion and presentation was rather intimidating to finish. Not to forget the generous serving of stuffed veal sweetbreads unless you have an enormous and adventurous appetite.

Beef Short Ribs 4.2/5

For myself I have the Beef Short Ribs ($38) which was beautifully cooked. The portion was rather huge again consider this is french cuisine. The lovely fork tender meat fell off the bone with easy and made my palate sang to the lovely tunes of flavours.

Braised French Chicken Leg 4.2/5

My girlfriend had the Braised French Chicken Leg ($28) which was interesting served in a claypot. The chicken leg was braised in vinegar and tomatoes served with gratin of potatoes at the side. Ignoring the presentation, the tangy broth was rather appertizing and I couldn't help going back for more.

French Duck Confit 4.2/5

Jacob's partner, Chloe has the French Duck Confit ($28). I had a piece for taste and I enjoyed the texture. It was moist and aromatic. I didn't get to try the beetroot salad but I thought the flavour will be a good balance for the gamey duck. You can read more on Jacob's site.

Catch of the Day, Bouillabaisse of Red Gurnard 4/5

Maureen ordered the Catch of the day, Bouillabaisse of Red Gurnard ($30). Bouillabaisse is classic French fish stew from Marseille. The word in general means boil and reduce heat. Maureen just had a dental surgery so she went for something soft in texture.

Profiteroles 4.2/5

The classic Profiteroles ($14) simply brought smiles to our faces with each scoop. The warm chocolate sauce and sliced almonds toppings were a welcome boost to the already wonderful dessert.

Green Apple Sorbet with Calvados 3/5

The Green Apple Sorbet with Calvados ($18) was a love and hate affiar. We loved the refreshing sorbet with the green apple bites. Unfortunately all of us felt that it was a bit too heavy on the Calvados, a type of apply or cider brandy.

Apricot Souffle 4/5

The giant Apricot Souffle ($20) is for the serving of 2. As it takes about 20 minutes to prepare, do place your order early. It had raised beautifully, light and fluffy.

Food at Le Bistrot du Sommerlier overall is top notch. However the restaurant is rather small and noisy. Definitely not suitable for  romantic quiet dinner. Do remember to make reservation and they expect a minimum spending of $70 per pax for group of more than 5.


Le Bistrot du Sommelier
53 Armenian Street
Singapore 179940
Tel: +65 63331982
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Le-Bistrot-Du-Sommelier/169391063079607
Website: http://www.lebistrotdusommelier.com
Nearest MRT:

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 230pm (Lunch), 6pm - 11pm (Dinner)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bras Basah MRT Station. Take Exit A. Head towards Stamford Road at the traffic junction of Bras Basah Road, Queen Street and Stamford Road. Continue onwards onto Armenian Street. Journey time about 8 minutes.

2) Alight at City Hall MRT Station. Take Exit A or B. Head northwest onto Stamford Road. Turn left onto Armenian Street. Journey time about 8 minutes.

Hard Rock Cafe Sentosa @ Resort World Sentosa

Do you know how many Hard Rock Cafes are there in Singapore? There are actually 3 in Singapore. They are at Resort World Sentosa, Cuscaden Road and Changi Airport Terminal 3 Departure Transit Lounge. Most Singaporean probably would visit overseas Hard Rock Cafe when they are on holidays but not the one in Singapore and I am one of those.

Besides live band performance, Hard Rock Cafe has many others to offer. It is a great place for family and large group gathering. The extensive menu even includes local fare that satisfy both the local and foreign palate. If you are not hungry, there is a bar to quench your thirst and enjoy the music while sipping your drink.

Jumbo Combo 4.2/5

For family or large group, the Jumbo Combo ($28) would be a a good starter to share. It has a delectable array of Santa Fe Spring Rolls, Hickory Smoked Chicken Wings, Onion Rings, Potato Skins and  Tupelo Chicken Tenders.

Hard Rock Nachos 4.2/5

Another great dish for sharing will be Hard Rock Nachos ($20). The huge serving of fresh corn tortilla chips piled high with Jack and Cheddar cheeses and seasoned pinto beans. It is served with sour cream, chopped green onions, pico de gallo, jalaperios and a side of freshly made Hard Rock Salsa. For meat lover, there are selection of Grilled Chicken ($6), BBQ Pulled Pork ($6) or Grilled Fajita Beef ($8) that can be added at a nominal cost.

Chilli Crab Dip 4.5/5

Here comes the exciting part ... Hard Rock Cafe has introduced the famous Singapore chilli crab and made it into a delicious dip, served with a choice of chinese buns or fresh corn tortilla chips. Thumbs up to the kitchen. The Chilli Crab Dip ($15) was so good that we basically can match and eat anything with it that was on the table.

Twisted Mac, Chicken and Cheese 4.5/5

Being a cheese lover, each mouthful of the lightly spiced 3-cheese sauce for the Twisted Mac, Chicken and Cheese ($26) with the twisted cavatappi pasta felt like ballerinas dancing in my mouth.
The sauce was really lovely and I can't help going back for more. The dish was completed with tender juicy grilled chicken breast and garlic toast.

Honey Citrus Grilled Chicken Salad 4.2/5

If you love your greens, do try the Honey Citrus Grilled Chicken Salad ($20). It consists of freshly cut greens tossed with sweet red onions, grilled Cajun chicken with Honey Citrus dressing. The beautiful salad is topped with fresh orange segments, spiced pecans, red pepper strips, sweetened dried cranberries and blue cheese crumbles. Abundance of textures and flavours marriage in a zesty dressing.

Fish and Chips 4.2/5

As a kid, I love my fried stuff. Being family oriented, there is always something on the the menu for the kids. The golden brown Fish and Chips ($26) deep fried in special batter, served with french fries was crisp on the outside and moist inside.

Hickory BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger 4.5/5

The legendary burgers at Hard Rock Cafe is a best try! The Hickory BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger ($26) used certified Australian Angus Beef cooked to medium well unless otherwise requested. The juicy patty packed with flavours was basted with special Hickory BBQ sauce and smothered with caramelized onions. The burger is topped with crisp seasoned bacon and melted cheddar cheese and served on a buttered toasted bun.

Hickory Smoked BBQ Combo 4.2/5

With roots from Memphis Tennessee, the smokehouse dishes out authentic and delectable grilled chicken and ribs basted with authentic Hickory BBQ sauce that is cooked to perfection with meat that falls right off the bone. The Hickory Smoked BBQ combo ($32) served with seasoned fries, ranch beans and fresh coleslaw will be the perfect choice for the best of everything.

Seafood Char Kway Teow 4.2/5

Your eyes were not playing trick with you and the Char Kway Teow is not from the Malaysian Food Street across the vicinity. Yes! Hard Rock Cafe offers Seafood Char Kway Teow ($18) on their menu. Surprisingly, the stir fried flat noodles tossed with bean sprouts, fish cake, chinese sausage, egg, prawn, squid and a sweet spicy soy sauce was excellently executed. It fared much better than a lot of stalls out there.

New York Strip Steak 4/5

Grilled to perfection is the 21 day aged center cut, 12 oz New York Strip Steak ($46) topped with merlot garlic butter and served with smashed potatoes, gravy and fresh vegetables.

Fresh Apple Cobbler 4.2/5

After a sumptuous feast, it is time to hit the sweet note with desserts. The Fresh Apple Cobbler ($16), a country favourite served warm with premium Haagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream. Topped with walnuts and caramel sauce the dessert was bursting with flavours.

Hot Fudge Brownie 4.2/5

Topped with Haagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, chopped walnuts, chocolate sprinkles, fresh whipped cream and a cherry, the Hot Fudge Brownie ($18) with its fresh and warm brownie was a classic dessert that will warm both the heart and palate.

Mud Pie 4.2/5

I wonder why the dessert is called Mud Pie ($16) when nothing of it looks like a pie. The ugly but beautiful dessert has cookie crust filled with a heavenly concoction of coffee and chocolate ice cream topped with hot fudge and crunchy almond flakes.

Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake 4/5

I was expecting a slice of cheesecake and never imagine the Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake ($8) was served in a short glass. Initally I thought it was some sort of mousse until I tasted the cheesy cheesecake in the glass with a blend of choclate and caramel sauces.

Cecil Ice Tea $6

The next time you are at Hard Rock Cafe, remember to try the highly recommended Cecil Ice Tea ($6). Natalie, Marketing Communication and PR Manager told us that it is also known as the SARS (Severe acute respriatory syndrome) drink. Those who drank it did not contract the virus during the outbreak.

It was a fun and enjoyable night with great food and company. A great thanks to Natalie and Chris for hosting us.


Hard Rock Cafe Sentosa
Resort World Sentosa
The Forum
26 Sentosa Gateway
#01-209 to 214
Singapore 098138
Website: http://www.hardrock.com/
Nearest MRT: Harbour Front (NE Line, CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1am

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbour Front MRT station. Exit station to Vivocity Shopping Mall. Go to Sentosa Express Station at Level 3 of Vivocity. Take Sentosa Express Train to Waterfront station. Alight at Waterfront station and walk to Level B1 The Forum, Resort World Sentosa. Journey time about 15 mins.