The Marmalade Pantry @ Tanjong Pagar - Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Refreshed Menu of Light and Vibrant Flavours

The Marmalade Pantry is celebrating its 25th Anniversary with a refreshed menu across its four outlets in Tanjong Pagar, Novena, ION, and Anchorpoint. The menu introduces lighter and more vibrant flavour profiles, incorporating new dishes and enhancements to its signature items.

The extensive line-up includes a variety of starters, salads, mains, pasta, risottos, and desserts, as well as an updated beverage selection featuring NON, an Australian non-alcoholic wine alternative.

Red Velvet Latte 3.5/5

I decided on the Red Velvet Latte ($8) as I was curious about adding fresh beetroot to the dark cocoa drink. While it was a tad sweet for me, I appreciated the subtle earthy notes from the beetroot.

Fried Brussels Sprouts 4/5

We began our meal with the Fried Brussels Sprouts ($16), which had a delightful Japanese twist. The brussel sprouts are dressed in sesame soy kewpie mayo and topped with pickled chillies, nori strips, and sesame seeds.

Roasted Smashed Sweet Potatoes 4.2/5

Next up was the Roasted Smashed Sweet Potatoes ($16). A fresh dill and chives, yoghurt dressing, and tangy pickled onions nicely balanced the potatoes' natural sweetness.

Chicken Salad 4.2/5

Another standout starter for me was the Chicken Salad ($23). This vibrant and healthy dish was a colourful mix of fresh salad vegetables, green apples, cherry tomatoes, cashews, and coriander, all tossed in a tangy Viet-Thai dressing. The sous vide chicken strips were particularly tender and well-seasoned.

Crispy Barramundi 3.8/5

Moving on to the mains, we tried the Crispy Barramundi ($32). The fish was lightly seasoned and paired with stronger aromatics from the masala potatoes and vegetable chutney.

Chicken Burger 3.8/5

The Chicken Burger ($28) surprised us with its spicy kick. It featured a crunchy chicken thigh sandwiched between soft potato buns, accompanied by tangy slaw and spicy garlic soy. The burger was served with a side of fries and beet-pickled cauliflower.

Tomato Risotto 4.2/5

Next, we were served with the Tomato Risotto ($26). The risotto was creamy yet not too heavy, thanks to the addition of stracciatella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and a Thai basil salsa. It was a comforting dish.

Butternut Mac & Cheese 4.5/5

The unanimous favourite of the meal was the Butternut Mac & Cheese ($26). A signature dish of The Marmalade Pantry has been refined in the new menu with a rich truffle cream and blue cheese base, enhanced by sweet roasted butternut squash and a black vinegar glaze. This dish is a wholesome, decadent, and balanced cheese lover's dream.

Miso Sesame Cupcake 3.8/5

We tried the Miso Sesame Cupcake ($6.50), a new addition to the brand's cupcake range for dessert. The savoury-sweet frosting had a nutty flavour with hints of peanut butter, complementing the moist cake base.

Green Tea Basque 3/5

Lastly, we ended with a slice of Green Tea Basque ($15). This double-layered baked cheesecake had a top layer of white chocolate and green tea, which balanced the richness of the cheese. However, I found it too sweet for my liking.

The Marmalade Pantry's 25th-anniversary menu refresh has something to offer for everyone, whether you're a fan of their classic dishes or eager to try something new.

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.


The Marmalade Pantry
Oasia Hotel Downtown
#01–1
100 Peck Seah Street
Singapore 079333
Tel: +65 6385 0741
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar MRT (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjang Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to destination. [Map]

Crossroads Buffet @ Marriott Singapore Tang Plaza - Step Into Lobster Haven on Thursday to Sunday with Lobster Nights

With so many hotels offering lobster theme buffets, step into a lobster haven with Crossroads Buffet's Lobster Nights, which had our bellies smiling. Crustacean lovers can expect over 15 unique lobster and crab dishes across multiple live stations. Available till 30 September (Thursday-Sunday) at $128++ per person.

Mentaiko Grilled Lobster 4/5

Other than the Boston Lobster on ice, there were 2 types of grilled lobster on rotation. We tried the Mentaiko and Curry Mayo flavours, and they are divine! The lobsters are really fresh, and the flesh is plump with a good bite. Another honourable mention will be the Snow Crab Legs on Ice, which are super sweet!

Lobster and Sea Urchin Risotto 3.5/5

Black Truffle Lobster Risotto 3.8/5

At the Lobster and Crab Market station, there were three types of Lobster Risotto made to order. We tried the Lobster and Sea Urchin Risotto and Black Truffle Risotto, and we preferred the latter as the truffle flavour stood out better. The sea urchin was somewhat a dried version, where the chef shaved it onto the risotto upon serving. We also asked for a smaller serving to taste more of the items.

Crab Brioche Roll 3/5

Another item at this station is the Crab Brioche Roll, which comes in three flavours: Signature Salted Egg, Truffle Crab, and Mentaiko Mayonnaise. We found the brioche bun too dry, and the crab meat was in chunks instead, so we didn't really enjoy this.

Lobster Mac & Cheese 3/5

We got excited when we saw Lobster Mac & Cheese, but unfortunately, it lacks the umami flavour of lobster, and the cheese sauce is mediocre.

Oven Roasted Lamb Leg and Oven Roasted Bone-in Ribeye 3/5

Western Cooked Food

Pizza

There was a good spread of Western-cooked food, such as Roasted Lamb Leg, Roasted Ribeye, Pizza, and more. We really like the Italian-style lobster Bisque, which is a clearer and lighter version but packed with umami seafood flavour.

Chinese Roasts 3/5

The Asian cooked food line also has a wide variety of dishes, but we didn't have enough stomach space to try them all. We tried the Chinese Roasts, but they failed to impress us. We recommend skipping them and keeping your stomach space for more lobsters!

Cold Cuts 4/5

Japanese Section 3/5

The Cold Cuts selections were good, but we could only sample a minimal amount. The Japanese Section was labelled, but fresh sashimi was nowhere to be found. This is probably one of the rare buffets we went to that doesn't serve sashimi.

Noodle Station

We typically like to have a bowl of Laksa before we start on the desserts. The Noodle Station also has Golden Chicken Collagen Soup with assorted condiments, which you can pick yourself and hand over to the chef to cook. We were impressed by the noodles available as well.

An array of desserts was available, such as mini cakes, pastries, verrines, puddings, and Movenpick ice cream. There is supposed to be a live dessert station where they serve French Crepe with Nutella, but the crepes were made and displayed in the open. We find the crepe too thick for our liking. There is also a Chinese dessert, which we believe is on rotation.

All in all, Crossroads Buffet's Lobster Nights truly stayed true to the theme of lobsters along with many other seafood. There is just too much to eat; we wish we had a bigger stomach capacity. There is also an Ultimate Seafood Feast Buffet from Sunday to Wednesday at $88++ per person if you aren't a big lobster fan.

You can also get free flow of non-alcoholic beverages at $22++ and $42++ for alcoholic beverages such as draught beer, prosecco, and house red and white wine. We are already planning our next visit before the Lobster Nights end!

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Crossroads Buffet
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
320 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Tel: +65 68314605
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

SPRUCE @ HillV2 - 15th Anniversary Grand Reopening with New Menu Featuring Collaboration by MasterChef Singapore Season 4 Winner Inderpal Singh

SPRUCE recently celebrated its 15th anniversary with a grand reopening at HillV2 and introduced a new bakery and bistro concept. Their all-new menu features a range of new dishes alongside an exclusive MasterChef collaboration with MasterChef Singapore Season 4 winner, Inderpal Singh. This collaboration consists of 5 items by Chef Inderpal, which showcase his expertise in spices.

The new modern space is adorned with warm lights and lots of greens, making it a cosy space for gatherings.

Beverages

Their beverage list is extensive, with homemade drinks such as Homemade Lemonade ($8), freshly squeezed lemon with fresh mint, and Arnold Palmer ($7), a blend of freshly brewed tea and homemade lemonade. Cocktails, created in collaboration with award-winning mixologist Nithi, are also available.

MasterChef Laksa Pumpkin Soup 3.8/5

The MasterChef Laksa Pumpkin Soup ($15) caught our eye for its intriguing combination of sweet pumpkin, laksa leaves, galanga and chilli! The creamy soup took some getting used to but paired well with a crunchy slice of garlic bread.

MasterChef - Fenugreek Crab Cake 4.2/5

A popular MasterChef creation is the Fenugreek Crab Cake ($22). Despite its price, it was chock full of succulent crab meat. We were also fans of the rich and aromatic fenugreek chutney, which enhanced the overall umami flavours.

MasterChef “Chilli Prawn” Roti John 3.5/5

The MasterChef "Chilli Prawn" Roti John ($27) featured prawns in chilli crab sauce on a basil roti john, offering a special twist on the classic beef or chicken versions. However, it was a tad pricey for its portion.

Prawn Orecchiette 4/5

For mains, we first had the Prawn Orecchiette ($24), which saw orecchiette pasta tossed in spinach and garlic cream sauce, with tiger prawn chunks and zucchini. While I would have liked the pasta a touch softer, the garlicky sauce was quite enjoyable.

Truffled & Mushroom Risotto 3.8/5

The Truffled & Mushroom Risotto ($23) was decent, with carnaroli rice simmered with mushrooms and mascarpone cheese. The thick texture made it better suited as a sharing dish.

Chimichurri Baby Back Ribs 4.2/5

Apart from the Fenugreek Crab Cake, our other unanimous favourite of the night was the Chimichurri Baby Back Ribs ($26). I rarely order baby back ribs as they usually come doused in a thick, sweet sauce, which I am not a fan of. SPRUCE's rendition, however, has the tender ribs served with a zesty homemade chimichurri sauce and shoestring fries on the side.

MasterChef - Barramundi & Coconut Briyani 4/5

The MasterChef — Barramundi & Coconut Briyani ($28), aptly described by my dining companions as a healthy briyani, was clean-tasting in a good way. The pan-seared barramundi had a crisp skin, while its meat remained tender. It was atop coconut briyani with pistachio and raisins and accompanied by a side of refreshing yogurt.

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.


SPRUCE
HillV2
#01-01
4 Hillview Rise
Singapore 667979
Tel: +65 9759 5790
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Nearest MRT: Hillview MRT (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 10am = 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Hillview MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Hillview Road. Turn right onto Hillview road. Walk down Hillview Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

LUCE by Davide Giacomelli @ Intercontinental Singapore - Celebrate the Magic of A Grandeur Christmas with Celebratory Sunday Champagne Brunch

This Christmas, step into a world of opulence and grandeur at InterContinental Singapore, where the spirit of the season comes to life through a splendid array of festive offerings. LUCE by Davide Giacomelli has introduced a lavish Celebratory Sunday Champagne Brunch for the Christmas season. Commencing from the 19th of November, this brunch extravaganza unfolds every Sunday and the first Saturday of the month, promising a feast of opulence and culinary excellence. Revel in diverse offerings, including standout features like Snow Crab Legs, Traditional Roasted U.S. Tom Turkey, Saffron Risotto served in a Parmesan Cheese Wheel, and the delectable Christmas Fruit Spiced Plum Pudding.

Commence your buffet adventure with the striking showcase of seafood on ice, presenting a diverse array of the freshest catches. Indulge in delights like yabbies, tiger prawns, snow crab legs, mussels, whelks, USA oysters, and Boston lobsters to set the tone for a luxurious dining experience. Take advantage of the finest sashimi and handmade sushi, adding an international flair to your brunch. Also, diners can delight in gourmet soups and salads, initiating the merriment on a delicious note.

Relish in small bites of exquisite flavours such as the smoked salmon poke bowl, Asian-style spicy ahi tuna tartar, Gamberi in Salsa Rosa, Egg Mimosa with tuna mayonnaise, coconut chia seed pudding, and Greek Style Quinoa Salad.

The smoked salmon poke bowl offers a delightful mix of seasoned wakame, edamame beans, pickled cucumber, red radish, and baby cos lettuce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The Asian-style spicy ahi tuna tartar brings a zingy and spicy twist, while Gamberi in Salsa Rosa introduces succulent prawns in a tantalizing pink sauce. For a touch of elegance, savour the Egg Mimosa with tuna mayonnaise. Sweeten your palate with the coconut chia seed pudding, and revel in the healthful and flavourful Greek-style quinoa salad. Each bite is a celebration of diverse and well-crafted flavours, adding a layer of sophistication to your dining experience.

Witness culinary artistry firsthand as chefs man a dedicated station crafting the exquisite Saffron Risotto in a Parmesan Cheese Wheel. The creamy and velvety saffron-infused risotto, cooked to perfection, takes on a luxurious quality. As the risotto is prepared within the Parmesan Cheese wheel, it absorbs the essence of the aged Parmesan, resulting in a flavourful and indulgent experience.

Additionally, savour the flavours of the Signature Intercontinental Laksa Noodle, which offers a burst of rich and aromatic flavours. The robust and spicy laksa broth, harmoniously blended with coconut milk, creates a luscious base for the dish.

The Christmas roasts at LUCE by Davide Giacomelli feature a trio of delectable options: Australian Angus Beef, Traditional Roasted U.S. Turkey, and Slow Charred Lamb Shoulder with mustard and rosemary. The Australian Angus Beef stands out for its superb tenderness and rich flavour. The meat is complemented by a red wine jus that adds depth and enhances the overall savoury experience.

Indulge in the wood-fired pizza offerings at LUCE by Davide Giacomelli, featuring enticing options like Pinsa Margherita, Amatriciana Pinsa, Cotto e Funghi, and Formagii e Uva. The Pinsa Margherita showcases the classic combination of fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil. At the same time, the Amatriciana Pinsa may feature flavours reminiscent of the traditional pasta dish with tomato, guanciale, and pecorino romano. Cotto e Funghi combines cooked ham and mushrooms for a savoury delight, and Formagii e Uva presents a blend of cheeses with the sweet addition of grapes. These wood-fired pizzas promise a symphony of flavours, offering a delightful journey for your taste buds.

Choose from a delectable selection of familiar Asian delights, such as the Honey-glazed Pork Char Siew, which features a delightful combination of sweet and savoury flavours. The succulent pork, coated in a glossy honey glaze, offers a perfect balance of tenderness and caramelized richness.

For something more substantial, go for the X.O. Sauce Fried Rice with tiger prawns or Penne All' Arrabiata with homemade tomato sauce and parmesan cheese.

Conclude your dining experience on a sweet note with a delectable array of desserts at the buffet. Indulge in an assortment of delights, including assorted macarons, pralines, exotic coconut cake, Heritage Chestnut Cake, Oreo Cheesecake, Luce-Misu, Crunchy Chocolate Choux Puff, Winter Berries, and Sesame Golden Ball filled with salted egg custard. Savour Christmas treats like Christmas Fruit Spiced Plum Pudding, Christmas Stollen, and Christmas Fruit Cake for a festive touch.

Enhance the sweetness with a visit to the Dark Chocolate fountain, accompanied by tempting condiments such as strawberries, rock melon, marshmallows, dried fruits, pretzels, Oreos, and peanut M&Ms.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


LUCE by Davide Giacomelli
InterContinental Singapore
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 68251008
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon-Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]