Showing posts with label Risotto. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Risotto. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

VUE @ OUE Bayfront - Launches New Summer Tasting Menu Featuring Kokuou Wagyu and Eyrewoolf Abalone

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Perched on the 19th floor of OUE Bayfront, VUE has launched its new Summer Tasting Menu, showcasing premium seasonal ingredients such as Kokuou Wagyu, Eyrewoolf Abalone and Kaluga Queen Caviar. We had the opportunity to try the 4-course menu ($168), featuring beautifully plated dishes, while enjoying one of the best views of Marina Bay Sands.

If you’re looking for better value, VUE is also running a Sunset Dinner Promotion from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, where diners can enjoy a 3-course menu from just $98 or a 4-course menu for $138. Wine pairing is also available should you wish to elevate the dining experience.

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42-Month Aged Jamon Iberico 4.5/5

Black Lip Abalone Crudo 1
Eyrewoolf Black Lip Abalone Crudo 4/5

We started with two cold appetisers. The 42-Month Aged Jamón Ibérico was paired with preserved Charentais melon and Pedro Ximénez dressing, which complemented the ham beautifully. The melon’s sweetness balanced the jamón’s savoury richness really well.

The Eyrewoolf Black Lip Abalone Crudo, served with smoked ikura, shio kombu, pickled wild garlic and nori oil, was a refreshing way to start the meal. The abalone had a firm, chewy texture with a clean briny flavour that wasn’t overpowering.

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Holland White Asparagus 3.5/5

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A5 Kokudo Wagyu Steak Hache 5/5

For the hot appetisers, we had the Holland White Asparagus, served with fermented lemon purée, crispy melted leek and saffron beurre blanc. While the combination was interesting, we felt the dish lacked depth.

On the other hand, the A5 Kokuou Wagyu Steak Haché was easily our favourite from this course. Despite its petite size, it packed plenty of flavour. Topped with a fried quail egg, it looked almost like a miniature burger. The nicely charred Wagyu paired really well with the ginger-yuzu soy dressing, making every bite enjoyable.

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Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto 4/5

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A5 Kokudo Wagyu Beef Duo 4/5

For mains, we had the Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto topped with fried porcini mushrooms (what a luxury!) and freshly shaved black truffle. We wished the porcini mushrooms were crispier and the risotto a little more al dente, but overall the earthy flavours came together really well.

The A5 Kokuou Wagyu Beef Duo featured both rump and brisket cuts. The rump was incredibly tender and literally melted in the mouth. The brisket was equally soft, although we weren’t huge fans of its slightly fibrous texture. Served with colourful cauliflower, creamy mashed potato and fresh truffles, it made for a beautiful main course.

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Before dessert, we were served a Palate Cleanser - Yoghurt Melon Sorbet topped with brown sugar and grapefruit sauce. This was really refreshing and delicious, and definitely did its job well of cleansing our taste buds before the sweet ending.

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Summer Stone Fruits 4/5

Tomato Strawberry 1
Tomato Strawberry 4.5/5

The Summer Stone Fruits came with almond chantilly, apricot yoghurt mousse and sakura powder. The combination was interesting, although some components leaned slightly more sour than what we usually enjoy.

The Tomato Strawberry, however, completely surprised us. Sweet cherry tomatoes and strawberries paired with white chocolate ganache, calamansi bergamot and strawberry yoghurt sorbet sounded unusual on paper, but everything worked beautifully together. We honestly didn’t expect tomato to pair so well in a dessert.

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Petite Four

We were also presented with Petite Four, which came with pecan nut cookies, chocolate lollipops and financier. We enjoyed them as a nice little ending to the meal, especially the financier and cookies. The chocolate lollipop was cute, though not particularly memorable compared to the rest.

Drinks

To celebrate the upcoming National Day, VUE also introduced three locally inspired cocktails — Kopi Martini ($28), Solero ($26) and Rose of Bandung ($18).

The Kopi Martini was our favourite, capturing the familiar aroma and flavour of local kopi much better than a regular espresso martini. The Rose of Bandung was another pleasant surprise, with the addition of lychee purée giving it an almost coconut milk-like finish. The Solero, however, was refreshing but didn’t quite leave the same impression as the other two.

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Besides the food, one of the biggest highlights at VUE is undoubtedly the view. Overlooking Marina Bay Sands and the city skyline, it’s an ideal spot for celebrations, date nights, or simply enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends. The dining room is elegant, although slightly dimly lit, while the service throughout the evening was attentive and professional.

View

VUE also has several al fresco tables overlooking Marina Bay, perfect for those who prefer dining outdoors. Right beside the restaurant is its rooftop bar, which shares the same spectacular skyline views, making it a great place to continue the evening over a few drinks.

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


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 1am
Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 2am
Sat: 1130am - 430pm, 530pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Pietrasanta @ Connexis Tower, Fusionpolis - Returning To Its Tuscan Roots

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Pietrasanta at Fusionopolis is returning to its Tuscan roots. Drawing inspiration from Pietrasanta in Tuscany, the hometown of founders Niccolò and Chef Loris, the restaurant has created a selection of dishes that captures the rustic flavours, traditions and warm hospitality of Tuscany.

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Crudo Di Ricciola 4.2/5

We started with two cold appetisers that showcased the simplicity and elegance of Tuscan cuisine. Crudo Di Ricciola ($28.90) featured firm, meaty amberjack paired with sweet-tart tomato confit, lightly dressed with lemon and extra-virgin olive oil, and accented with delicate floral notes from pink peppercorns.

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Battuta Di Manzo Con Pecorino Toscano 4/5

Battuta Di Manzo Con Pecorino Toscano ($27.90) highlighted the sharp, intensely savoury character of aged Pecorino Toscano, which was incorporated into the beef tartare alongside lemon and capers, resulting in a bright, balanced finish.

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Fritto Viareggino 4/5

Fritto Viareggino ($26.90) was a moreish medley of battered squid, prawns, sardines and vegetables inspired by the coastal town of Viareggio, served with a marinara mayo dipping sauce.

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Coccoli Ricotta e Finocchiona 4.2/5

The highlight for me among the appetisers was Coccoli Ricotta e Finocchiona ($24.90), a nostalgic Tuscan street food featuring warm deep-fried dough served with burrata cream and Finocchiona salami. Stuffing the fluffy dough with the milky burrata and herbaceous, garlicky salami created a mouthwatering combination of flavours and textures that left me wanting more.

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Pici all’Aglione 4.5/5

Moving on to the mains, Pici all’Aglione ($24.90), the signature Tuscan thick hand-rolled pasta was skilfully executed, delivering a delightful bounce with every bite. The dish embraces the Tuscan philosophy of simplicity, tossing the pasta with just tomato, garlic, and olive oil to let the ingredients’ quality shine.

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Risotto Gamberi e Zucchine 4/5

We also tried two risotto dishes. Cooked with lobster bisque, the Risotto Gamberi e Zucchine ($32.90) was crowd-pleasing, with creamy, flavourful Carnaroli risotto studded with chunky prawns, creating textural enjoyment in every bite.

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Peposo Di Manzo Con Risotto Al Porri 4.2/5

The Peposo Di Manzo Con Risotto Al Porri ($37.90) featured a firmer, more al dente risotto that I personally preferred, paired with satisfyingly tender braised beef cheek. The renewed menu also embraces regional Tuscan flavours through its artisanal pizzas.

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Salsiccia e Cavolo Nero 4.5/5

Among all the mains, the Salsiccia e Cavolo Nero ($28.90) was my absolute favourite and worth returning for. The dough had an excellent structure, providing the perfect foundation for the toppings of mozzarella fior di latte, Tuscan black kale (cavolo nero), flavourful Italian pork sausage, and aged pecorino. Finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and black pepper, every bite was remarkably balanced, delivering a little of everything at once. It was particularly impressive how the wilted kale contributed so much texture and character to the pizza.

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Tiramisu 4/5

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Zuccotto alla Fiorentina 4.2/5

For dessert, while the Tiramisu ($14.90) was undeniably delectable, the Zuccotto alla Fiorentina ($14.90) offered a rare glimpse into a traditional Florentine sweet. Originating from Florence, this classic dessert is typically crafted in a distinctive pumpkin-shaped mould. Beneath its cake exterior lies a creamy ricotta ice cream filling, complemented by a contrasting sweet-tart berry sauce.

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Pietrasanta has long been a staple in the area, and it’s no surprise given its rustic flavours and traditional recipes executed with finesse. While the dishes embrace simplicity, they are rich in character, with the Salsiccia e Cavolo Nero pizza and Pici all’Aglione standing out as highlights worth returning for.

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


Ristorante Pietrasanta
1 Fusionpolis Way
#01-08
Singapore 138632
Tel: +65 98639253
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: One-North (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at One-North MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn right and walk out of the building. Turn left and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]


Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Mama Shelter @ Killiney Rd - Indulgent Mama's Happy Meal At Half-Price, $39.90 for 2 pax

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Mama Shelter Singapore, located along Killiney Road, marks the iconic French lifestyle brand’s first foray into Asia, having opened its doors in the final quarter of 2025. The brand adopts a playful and welcoming approach to hospitality, with signature concepts Mama Loves You and Mama Feeds You shaping the overall experience.

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Mama’s Happy Meal

One of the easiest ways to get a taste of Mama’s hospitality is through Mama’s Happy Meal. Crafted as a playful, grown-up take on a childhood favourite, this set is currently available at a special half-price offer of $39.90 for 2 persons (U.P. $79.90). Each set comes with two mains, free-flow fries, two drinks, and a tin of caviar, for a fun touch of indulgence.

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Beef Burger 4.5/5

For mains, we tried two handcrafted burgers from Mama’s kitchen. The Beef Burger features double Black Angus patties, smashed and caramelised for that juicy, lip-smacking flavour. While the burger is slightly smaller, it comes loaded with sweet caramelised onions and just the right amount of gherkins for acidity. The buns held everything well without being too dense.

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Fish Burger 4.8/5

The Fish Burger, made with beer-battered red snapper and Mama’s tartare sauce, was equally enjoyable. The crust was light and airy, while the fillet remained firm, moist and flaky. While caviar would pair nicely with seafood, the burger stood well on its own, with the tangy tartare sauce bringing everything together. The free-flow skin-on fries were spot on, reminiscent of Belgian-style fries, and definitely easy to keep going back for.

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Cucumber Martini, Espresso Martini

For drinks, you can choose from a curated selection of draft beers, gin and tonic, wines, or non-alcoholic options. We went with the signature cocktails: the Cucumber Martini and the Espresso Martini. Both were well balanced, especially the Espresso Martini, which I appreciated as many tend to be overly sweet. If you’re planning to linger, you can continue with free-flow fries alongside your next drink at an exclusive price of $9.90 when you extend the Happy Meal.

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Nasi Lemak Arancini 3.5/5

Beyond the set, we also tried the Nasi Lemak Arancini ($18), which brings a local twist. They definitely got the flavour combination right, with coconut-infused rice and a punchy sambal to go with. Should the Arancini be shaped larger, more of the pearly, coconut-infused rice would come through.

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Fresh Morel Risotto 4.8/5

The Fresh Morel Risotto ($38), a seasonal item, features sautéed morels, Parmigiano Reggiano, crisp and shaved black truffle. It was a well-executed dish, with a good balance between the rice and the ingredients, and flavours that were rich yet controlled, complementing each other without overpowering one another.

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Sweet Belgian Waffles 4.5/5

We ended with the Sweet Belgian Waffles ($18). Loved the caramelised exterior and how it wasn’t overly sweet, making it a satisfying finish to the meal.

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


Mama Shelter Singapore
110 Killiney Road
Singapore 239549
Tel: +65 6050 3250
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 7am -10pm
Tue-Sat: 7am - 12am

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Turn left and walk to Killiney Road. Turn right onto Killney Road. Walk down Killney Road to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]


Sunday, April 26, 2026

VUE @ OUE Bayfront - New Weekend Lunch Set Menu with Signature Dessert Trolley

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Perched atop OUE Bayfront, VUE continues to impress with its refined modern European cuisine and stunning skyline views. Elevating the weekend dining scene, the restaurant has launched a new Weekend Lunch Set Menu, thoughtfully curated with a choice of four ($108++) or five courses ($128++). Each dish reflects a careful balance of artistry and finesse, culminating in a delightful finale of free-flow desserts from its signature trolley.

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As with every visit, the meal began on a high note with the restaurant's complimentary milk buns. Soft, pillowy and lightly sweet, they were perfect when paired with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It's one of those addictive starters that inevitably leads to a second helping, and understandably so.

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42-Month Aged Jamón Iberico 4/5

We started our lunch with the cold appetisers, in which the 42-Month Aged Jamón Iberico delivered a deeply savoury, complex flavour profile. The long curing process lends the ham its signature intensity and nutty undertones, complemented beautifully by sweet Charentais melon. Paired with the La Coca toast, a thin, crisp Spanish flatbread, provided a delightful textural contrast, allowing the richness of the ham to shine.

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Heirloom Tomatoes 4/5

The Heirloom Tomatoes offered a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative. Naturally sweet and juicy heirloom tomatoes were paired with smoked burrata, creating a luscious creamy contrast. The inclusion of tonburi, often referred to as "land caviar," added a subtle popping texture, while black olives introduced a gentle briny depth, tying the dish together harmoniously.

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Wild Caught Scallop 4.2/5

Moving on to the hot appetisers, the Wild Caught Scallop stood out for its precision in execution. The wild caught scallop was pan-seared to a perfect golden crust while retaining a tender, succulent interior. Its natural sweetness was elevated by the luxurious topping of Osetra caviar, while the white chocolate miso emulsion added an unexpected yet balanced layer of sweetness and umami. The sautéed spring peas lent freshness and a slight crunch, rounding off the dish elegantly.

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Grilled Baby Gem Lettuce 4/5

In contrast, the Grilled Baby Gem Lettuce showcased the restaurant's mastery of binchōtan grilling. The lightly charred outer leaves carried a gentle smokiness, while the inner core remained crisp and refreshing. The dish was brightened with an orange tahini dressing, complemented by feta cheese, walnuts and a Parmesan crisp. It delivered a pleasing interplay of smoky, creamy and crunchy textures.

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Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto 4.8/5

For the risotto course, both options impressed with their depth of flavour and execution. The Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto was a comforting, earthy masterpiece. Made with a medley of premium mushrooms, including porcini and chestnut, the dish exuded deep umami richness. Each grain of rice retained a slight bite, coated in a creamy, velvety sauce enriched with aged Parmigiano Reggiano. The addition of truffle further enhanced its aromatic, woodsy profile.

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Signature Uni Risotto 4.8/5

Equally indulgent was the Signature Uni Risotto (+$12). This luxurious creation highlighted the briny sweetness of Hokkaido sea urchin, folded into a creamy emulsion that beautifully coated the Japanese multi-grain rice. The grains offered a subtle textural contrast, making each mouthful more dynamic. The uni foam intensified the oceanic flavours, resulting in a deeply satisfying and decadent dish.

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Spanish Octopus 4.5/5

From the grill, the Spanish Octopus demonstrated VUE's expertise with binchōtan charcoal. The octopus was cooked to a perfect tenderness, with a slight char that imparted a smoky depth without overpowering its natural sweetness. Accompanied by grilled baby gem lettuce, semi-dried tomatoes, and a pistachio chimichurri, the dish was well balanced, with the nutty, herbaceous sauce elevating the overall profile.

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Stoneaxe Wagyu Rump Cap MBS 8-9 4.5/5

For the mains, the Stone Axe Wagyu Rump Cap MBS 8-9 (+$15) was a highlight for meat lovers. Also known as picanha, the cut is prized for its rich flavour and luscious fat cap, which renders beautifully over the grill. Simply seasoned to let the beef's quality shine, the meat was juicy, tender and deeply flavourful. Served with truffle mashed potatoes and heirloom cauliflower, the accompaniments complemented without overshadowing the star ingredient.

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Desserts 4.2/5

Ending the meal on a sweet note, the Dessert Trolley remains a signature draw of the weekend lunch experience. Presented tableside, it offers an enticing selection of bite-sized and plated desserts that change with the seasons. From delicate pastries to indulgent sweets, the free-flow format allows diners to sample a variety of creations, making for a playful and satisfying finale.

Overall, VUE's Weekend Lunch Set Menu delivers a well-paced and thoughtfully executed dining experience. With its combination of quality ingredients, refined techniques and indulgent touches like the dessert trolley, it is an excellent choice for a leisurely weekend indulgence in the heart of the city.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 1am
Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 2am
Sat: 1130am - 430pm, 530pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, April 5, 2026

Tea Lounge @ Conrad Singapore Orchard - Art of Chocolate, An Indulgent Afternoon of Valrhona-infused Delights

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Tea Lounge at Conrad Singapore Orchard has launched a decadent Weekday Afternoon Tea in collaboration with Valrhona, featuring a curated selection of pastries and cocoa-infused creations crafted with Valrhona's signature couverture chocolates.

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We started with a warm, creamy, indulgent Hot Chocolate, though a more bittersweet profile might have made for a better opening given the sweets ahead.

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Finger Sandwiches

The tier of savoury finger sandwiches was nothing short of elegant and satisfying. The ratio of soft, fluffy bread to fillings was spot on. The Devilled Mimosa Sandwich offered a classic egg mayo filling, while the Cured Cucumber Sandwich delivered a pleasant savoury crunch. The Smoked Salmon Sandwich with Caviar was mouth-filling and luxurious, while the Smoked Roasted Chicken Sandwich leaned more towards a shaved ham sandwich, though still delectable with its tender bite.

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Vanilla Moist Layer Cake

The tea cakes and pastries tier showcases some of Valrhona's key couverture chocolates, including Guanaja 70% that goes into making the Vanilla Moist Layer Cake. I learnt that Guanaja 70% is regarded as the world's first intensely bitter chocolate with 70% cocoa, when it was first introduced in 1986!

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Crémeux and White Miso Tart

The Crémeux and White Miso Tart stood out the most for me. It features Matcha inspiration, made with Kagoshima matcha and cocoa butter. The savoury white miso tart also draws on umami, reinforcing the creation's Japanese flair. Among the sweets, I thought this had the most balanced sweetness.

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Raspberry Crémeux and Coco Biscuit features Opalys 33%, known for its pure white colour and velvety texture. Coconut is infused into the pastry as well, imparting a gentle tropical note. The Hazelnut Travel Cake is a vegan-friendly cake made using Amatika 46%, Valrhona's first vegan couverture. The nuttiness of the cake came through beautifully. Roasted Buckwheat Mandola is created with Hukambi 53% milk chocolate and elevated with a nutty crunch from roasted buckwheat.

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Mushrooms Royale and Dark Chocolate Quiche

In between, we were also served Mushrooms Royale and Dark Chocolate Quiche, both of which were among my favourite items. The dark notes of the pastry tart complemented the creamy and savoury filling especially well. The scones are served with clotted cream, salted caramel chocolate jam, strawberry jam, and calamansi curd.

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Scones

In addition to the Classic Plain, there is also the Manjari 64% Chocolate and Candied Orange Zest Scone. Studded with chunks of luscious Manjari 64% chocolate in every bite, it was delicious enough to enjoy with just the clotted cream.

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Sweet Risotto

Sweet Risotto was served à la minute, with a choice of three flavours — dark chocolate, raspberry, and matcha. During our visit, guest Pastry Chef Arief Rusli of Valrhona was in residence at Tea Lounge, and we had the privilege of having him finish our risotto with a pepper-spiked mousse. Its contrasting peppery note offset the milky sweetness of the risotto, creating a more balanced and nuanced finish.

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Beyond the existing selection of teas and coffee, you can also customise your own Gryphon tea at a dedicated tea station with a variety of ingredients to choose from.

Art of Chocolate is available Mondays to Fridays from 30 March to 10 July 2026, 12pm to 5pm.

Pricings
$54++ per adult
$27++ per child with selection of tea and coffee
An additional $50++ per adult for free-flow prosecco and wines
An additional $70++ per adult for free-flow champagne and wines

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


Tea Lounge
Conrad Singapore Orchard
Lobby Level
1 Cuscaden Road
Singapore 249715
Tel: +65 67253245
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 5pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 215pm, 3pm - 515pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn right and walk down Cuscaden Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes.[Map]