Gourmet Park @ Resorts World Sentosa - Gourmet Food Truck Park Featuring Exciting Michelin-Starred Names

Gourmet Park is conveniently located just outside the main entrance of Universal Studios Singapore in Resorts World Sentosa.

This innovative food truck park concept was created to offer visitors, whether tourists or locals, a carefully curated selection of emerging food brands and Michelin-starred cuisine to savour.

The food trucks are lined on the circumference, each serving their usual signatures and/or dishes specially prepared only to be enjoyed at the park.

Other notable park highlights include the alfresco dining area, live DJ sets on weekend evenings, the intentional inclusion of vegetarian options at three trucks, and free entry for all.

Blue Lotus - Signature Chilli Pomelo Crab Meat Rice Bowl 4/5

Blue Lotus is most known for its modern Chinese creations. The first we had from them was their Signature Chilli Pomelo Crab Meat Rice Bowl ($19). Although a tad pricey, it was great to enjoy the crab meat without needing to peel, and we particularly enjoyed the heat and variety of spices packed in its chilli crab sauce.

Blue Lotus - Five Spices "Lu Rou" Kurobuta Pork Belly Rice Bowl 3.8/5

The second dish, the Five Spices "Lu Rou" Kurobuta Pork Belly Rice Bowl ($17), was decent, with chunky and well-braised pork belly on white rice.

The Kathi Roll Co - Butter Chicken Roll 4/5

At The Kathi Roll Co, dig into their range of Indian street food consisting of wraps, rolls and bowls. Our Butter Chicken Roll ($18) came with nicely spiced and tender chicken chunks, but we also found it quite pricey.

Kotuwa - Chicken Kottu 4.5/5

Kotuwa is a Michelin-starred name that focuses on traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. It was a unanimous nod of approval from all of us for their Chicken Kottu ($16). This elevated rendition of a Sri Lankan street classic features a mix of chopped roti, vegetables, chicken and a curry-like gravy. It was hearty with the perfect spice, richness and textures.

Chun Noodle Bar - Truffle Char Siu Noodle 4/5

The wanton noodles from Chun Noodle Bar are available in various renditions. We had the Truffle Char Siu Noodle ($13) that had egg noodles tossed in their housemade sauce, tender Iberico char siew and wantons.

Lavi Taco - Pulled Mushroom Taco 4.2/5

If you want a vegetarian option, check out Lavi Taco's Pulled Mushroom Taco (3 for $20 / 2 for $26). The tacos were generously filled with its well-textured mushroom filling, so much so that one of my dining companions didn't realise it was vegetarian till the end!

Luke’s Lobster - Lobster Roll 4/5

Luke's Lober's Lobster Roll ($27.60) uses lobsters from Maine, USA. Most would be familiar with them and their buttered rolls stuffed with your choice of lightly seasoned seafood.

QUEIC & Olivia Market - Olivia Cheesecake 4.8/5

Moving to desserts, I was so excited to spot QUEIC & Olivia Market's truck as they made my favourite cheesecakes! The prized Olivia Cheesecake ($14) has this amazingly oozy filling made of cream cheese and blue cheese, sat on a crunchy almond sable crust. It is so intense yet so well-balanced. I highly recommend this to all cheese lovers.

Spank My Dough - Artisanal Brioche Doughnuts 4.2/5

Grab more desserts from Spank My Dough, which specialises in Artisanal Brioche Doughnuts ($4.50 - $6.80/piece) produced in small batches daily and with piped fillings. The fluffy bombolonis are available in various flavours, including Vanilla Bean, Raspberry Cheesecake, Pistachio Cream, Blueberry Lavender Lemon and more.

With the wide variety of cuisine available here, there is something for everyone. Other brands not featured here include Blue Smoke, Coolhaus, Dickson Nasi Lemak, JAMBA, Mad Roaster, Quattro Pizza and Seafood Bar by Bleu.

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.


Gourmet Park
Resorts World Sentosa
The Bull Ring
8 Sentosa Gateway
Singapore 098269
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront MRT (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 8pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 9pm

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 Resorts World station. Alight at Resorts World station. Walk to destination. Jourrney time about 10 mins

UYA @ Oasia Hotel Novena - Savour Outlet-exclusive Specialty Dishes and Signatures At UYA's Second Outlet

Uya, renowned for its top-notch unagi dishes, has opened its second outlet at Oasia Hotel Novena. This unagi restaurant offers a range of outlet-exclusive specialty dishes and signature creations that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With a focus on quality, Uya sources live eels directly from fisheries on a weekly basis, ensuring the freshest ingredients for their dishes. These live eels are then prepared a la minute in various mouthwatering renditions by Uya's team of experienced Japanese chefs, led by the talented head chef.

Grilled Unagi Fin 4/5

Grilled Unagi Head 3.8/5

Diners can expect an array of new and irresistible bites crafted to complement Uya's selection of Japanese sakes, shochu, and beers. Among the highlights are three specialty skewers glazed in Uya's signature homemade sauce. The Grilled Unagi Fin ($6/Stick) and Grilled Unagi Head ($6/Stick) are perfect for those who appreciate the traditional Japanese way of enjoying different parts of the eel.

Yahata Maki 4/5

For a unique Kyoto specialty, try the Yahata Maki ($9/Stick), which combines crunchy and slightly bitter burdock root wrapped within tender unagi.

Smoky Unagi Ham 4/5

One standout dish is the Smoky Unagi Ham ($16). This tightly-rolled unagi is lightly seasoned with salt and grilled over sakura wood chips, imparting a distinct smoky ham-like flavor. The accompanying velvety cream cheese adds a rich mouthfeel, resulting in a delightful combination of flavors.

Crispy Unagi Bone 3.5/5

At Uya, you'll also encounter unique offerings like the Crispy Unagi Bone ($6), which provides a thin and crispy chip-like texture, a surprising treat for those unfamiliar with eating eel bones.

Liver Ponzu 2.5/5

Deep Fried Liver 2.5/5

Grilled Liver 3/5

Adventurous eaters can opt for the Eel's Liver prepared in three ways: Boiled ($9), Grilled ($9), and Deep-fried ($9). While the boiled version is served with ponzu sauce to balance the gaminess, the grilled and deep-fried variations help mask the intense flavors of the liver.

Oyster Tempura 3/5

Seafood lovers shouldn't miss the Oyster Tempura ($14), featuring plump and juicy Hiroshima oysters wrapped in shiso leaf and accompanied by a crispy coating. While the dish is served with salt, a tangy sauce could elevate the overall flavor profile.

Mullet Roe with Radish 3/5

Another a la carte dish at Uya is the Mullet Roe with Radish ($19). This dish showcases the savory and perfectly balanced flavors of mullet roe paired with white radish. The combination creates a delightful taste experience; however, it may be an acquired taste for those unfamiliar with enjoying mullet roe in its naked form.

Grilled Eel with Salt 4/5

One of Uya's expertly-executed offerings is the Grilled Eel with Salt ($23/$33/$46). This seemingly simple dish requires meticulous preparation, including filleting, deboning, butterflying, skewering, and grilling the eel with just the right amount of salt. This careful technique ensures that the natural flavors of the eel shine through, resulting in a delectable and satisfying culinary delight.

Healthy Unagi Rice Bowl 4/5

For those seeking a complete meal, Uya offers set meals that come with a side of refreshing and tangy salad, pickles, and miso soup with a hint of yuzu zest. The Healthy Unagi Rice Bowl ($29) features tender eel, natto (fermented soybeans), nagaimo (Japanese mountain yam), okra, sous vide egg, and garnishes like spring onions, seaweed, and Japanese ginger. However, the sticky mucilage from the ingredients may not be to everyone's liking.

Hitsumabushi Large 4.2/5

Hitsumabushi Medium 4.2/5

Undoubtedly, the highlight of Uya's menu is the Hitsumabushi ($35/$48). Served in two sizes, this bowl showcases glistening golden-brown unagi atop fluffy Niigata rice. Accompanied by a trio of condiments (spring onions, wasabi, and crispy nori), homemade umami dashi, pickled cucumbers, and miso soup with yuzu zest, the Hitsumabushi offers three ways to enjoy it. You can savor the original flavors of the grilled unagi and rice, enhance it with your choice of toppings, or pour the light dashi broth over the rice, reminiscent of an 'ocha-zuke' style. However, it's worth noting that the dashi broth at Uya leans towards the sweeter side compared to other unagi restaurants.

Sea Urchin and Wagyu Rice Bowl 4.2/5

For a luxurious and indulgent experience, try the Sea Urchin and Wagyu Rice Bowl ($55). This delectable dish combines thinly-sliced succulent rare beef, Hokkaido sea urchin, and briny ikura with freshly-grated wasabi, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.

Parfait 4/5

The Parfait ($12) is beautifully adorned with layers of sweetened azuki beans, creamy vanilla and matcha ice cream, chewy mochi balls, and velvety whipped cream. Each component contributes to a symphony of flavors and textures, creating a harmonious blend that will leave you wanting more.

With its outlet-exclusive dishes and commitment to serving quality unagi creations, Uya at Oasia Hotel Novena is a must-visit for unagi enthusiasts and Japanese cuisine lovers alike. Prepare to embark on a delightful culinary journey filled with the finest unagi delicacies that will leave you craving for more.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


UYA
Oasia Hotel Novena, Singapore by Far East Hospitality
8 Sinaran Drive
#01-05
Singapore 307470
Tel: +65 97880071
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Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Novena MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walkdown Sinaran Drive. Walk towards Novena Specialist Centre. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

MAM MAM @ NUHS - A Hidden Gem At National University Hospital

One of my most ordered delivery during these three years of Covid is MAM MAM. However, I only recently visited the casual eatery hidden in National University Health System (NUHS) Tower Block at National University Hospital. MAM MAM is the brainchild between Chef Sebastian Ng of VENUE by Sebastian, and Edmund Ang, the third-generation owner of Punggol Nasi Lemak. The casual eatery serves affordable Asian Rice Bowl and hearty local food.

100-hour Duck Confit Rice Bowl

One of my favourite dishes at MAM MAM is its 100-hour Duck Confit Rice Bowl ($11.50). The confit duck leg is marinated with Asian spices for two days and slow-cooked for 24 hours. The result is extremely tender with flavoursome crispy skin. The rice bowl is served with delectable sides - seasonal vegetables, salted veggies and egg roll. Not forgetting the piquant green sambal that accentuated the enjoyment of the duck confit.

Spice-crusted Chicken Leg

The signature at MAM MAM is its Spice-crusted Chicken Leg ($8.50). The huge chicken leg is marinated in a special concoction comprising 16 different types of herbs and spices for an aromatic finish. The chicken leg is deep-fried to a delightful crunch on the skin but tender and juicy inside. It is served with a side of pickled cucumber and egg roll.

Besides the two Asian rice bowls, the menu offers four other ones, all below $10. They are Golden Fried Chicken in Signature Spicy Tomato Sauce ($7.50), Slow-roasted Norwegian Salmon Specialty ($9.50), Signature Minced Chicken with Basil and Egg Tofu ($5.90) and Wok-fried Sliced Beef with Ginger and Scallion ($5.80).

MAM MAM also offers congee on its menu. The congee has a consistent creaminess. It is a hearty and comforting bowl of congee. However, it is not the style I like. Being a Teochew, I prefer it to be more grainy.

Another item I usually order at MAM MAM is the Green Bean and Sago. It is a local dessert I like, and at MAM MAM, I can have a satisfying meal from mains to dessert.


MAM MAM
NUHS Tower Block
Level One
1E Kent Ridge Road
Singapore 119228
Tel: +65 62524320
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Nearest MRT: Kent Ridge (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 7am - 5pm
(Closed on Sat-Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Kent Ridge MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk down South Buona Vista Road. Turn right onto Kent Ridge Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 mintues. [Map]

Superfood Kitchen @ Raffles City - Making Nutritional Bowls Accessible to All

Superfood Kitchen has one mission - to improve the quality of living by making nutrition accessible to all. Their latest outlet is located at Raffles City, a dual-concept with their sister brand, The Green Bar. It is the first in Singapore to integrate a nutrition calculator into its self-ordering kiosks so that you can customize your diet based on your personal nutritional requirements based on Calories, Protein, Carbohydrates and Fats. The main offerings are Superbowl (from $7.90), Superburrito (from $6.90) and Salad (from $6.90). In addition, you can add your desired supplements to beef up the nutritional intake for each main.

Mediterranean Delight 4/5

There are six types of Superbowls featuring essential proteins such as chicken, beef and tofu. We tried the Mediterranean Delight, which comprises sous vide chicken breast as the protein, along with quinoa, tomato salsa, hummus peanut butter, pickled red onions, and roasted sea-salt pumpkin, served with garlic aioli dressing. The chicken breast was moist and tender. So even if you are a sceptic, do give it a try. The quinoa, being cooked in vegetable broth, was flavourful. The hummus here is made using peanut butter instead of tahini. Hence it lends a depth of nuttiness to this very light and refreshing grain bowl.

Crispy Tofu Balls

I also added other supplements such as Guacamole, Chilli Pickled Pineapple and Crispy Tofu Balls. The tofu balls are one of The Green Bar's specialities, perfect for a meatless option.

Smoked Duck Mango Tango 3.8/5

For Salads, a popular choice is the Smoked Duck Mango Tango ($14.90), featuring thick cuts of smoked duck, mangoes, beets, capsicums, and roasted cashews, served with citron dressing. The dressing complements the savoury and unctuous smoked duck with an additional drizzle of balsamic for extra acidity.

DIY Superbowl with Cajun Chicken

We also DIY a Superbowl (from $7.90/1 grain+ 1 protein + 3 supplements + 1 dressing) by choosing our preferred grain and supplements - Cajun Chicken, Quinoa, Burnt Broccoli, Beets, Mango and a citrusy Orange Vinaigrette. The Burnt Broccoli was tasty, and per additional portion is only 80cent! The Cajun Chicken was tender as well.

Superfood Kitchen also brought bottled juices and smoothies by this adorable brand Innocent to complement your meals.

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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Superfood Kitchen
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#B1-78
Singapore 179103
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily:11am – 9pm

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

IKO @ Neil Road - Transform Into Restaurant And Bar Dripping With Style And Seasonality

Hit by Phase 2 Heightened Alert and the various COVID restrictions in its initial opening, IKO at Neil Road has recently reopened with a brand new kitchen team and menu. The restaurant has even gotten Dylan Ong, chef-owner of Franco-Asian restaurant The Masses, as consultant chef in its transformation.

Fresh Oyster 4/5

We started with the Fresh Oyster from Japan. You can give the oyster a shot of sake (+$5) to perk up the enjoyment. It is my first time having oyster and sake pairing. It is a refreshing way of enjoying the oyster with the sake, giving it a subtle sweetness.

Charred Edamame 3.5/5

Great to go with a few cups of sake is the Charred Edamame ($12) paired with oyster leaf, wasabi powder and wasabi rice,

Tempura Jalapeno 4.2/5

A delightful snack I enjoyed a lot is the Tempura Jalapeno ($9) coated in a light and crispy tempura batter. Be careful when you bite into the crunchy jalapeno, as it is stuffed with hot, oozing cheese.

Salmon 3.5/5

We tried the Salmon ($19) and Scallop ($18) under the sashimi section. The presentation of the salmon sashimi is pretty with the orange and green colour combination from the kiwi ravigote, dill oil and chive. However, I felt it lacked a bit of zest to elevate the freshness.

Scallop 3.8/5

I preferred the scallop sashimi more as it carries more punches in flavour. We have mixed opinions on the gin compressed watermelon though. I felt the gin infusion of the watermelon gives the scallop a bitter finishing. But, on the other hand, if it is without the alcohol, the watermelon's sweetness may give it a more refreshing touch instead.

Tempura Soft Shell Crab 4/5

The Tempura Soft Shell Crab ($14) is usually enjoyed with mayonnaise. Still, IKO has given it an elevated twist, pairing it with avocado puree and soy cured egg yolk.

A5 Wagyu Sukiyaki 4.5/5

The A5 Wagyu Sukiyaki ($26) is a beautiful dish on the menu. There is shiitake mushroom, leek, scallion, egg yolk, and perilla in the bowl. However, the highlight has to be the fatty and tender A5 Wagyu beef.

IKO Roll 4.2/5

The IKO Roll ($24) is a delicious work of art whereby foie gras, maitake, and fig are rolled a la sushi to showcase the balance of flavours. It is finished with a shower of truffle shaving to top the enjoyment.

Pasta 4.5/5

A pasta dish on the menu is the Bucatini with charred firefly squid, ikura, tobiko and bottarga. It is a bowl of slurping goodness that is worthy of your calories.

Not Your Ordinary Rice Bowl 4.5/5

A signature at IKO is the Not Your Ordinary Rice Bowl. There are five different bowls - Classic, Simple, Fun, Sexy and Luxury. I had the tasting portion of the Luxury Bowl ($42). It comes brimming with luxe and premium seafood such as otoro, maguro, salmon, ikura, tobiko, snow crab and uni on top of the seaweed rice

Lamb Loin 4.5/5

We had the Lamb Loin ($29) from the grill, which is incredibly tender and juicy, stewed in a delicious broth made from 10 different kinds of mushrooms.

Matchamisu 4.5/5

Wrapping up our dinner at IKO is the Matchamisu ($13). It may look sort of messy, but this is one yummy dessert to save some space for.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


IKO
65 Neil Road 
Singapore 088897
Tel: +65 88665218
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12 - 3pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Duxton Plain Park. Walk along the park to Neil Road. Cross the tunnel and take the staircase to Neil Road. Walk to junction of Neil Road and Craig Road. Cross the road and walk down Neil Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]