One Prawn & Co @ MacPherson Road - Brand New 12-Course Seafood Grill Dinner Situated In A Coffee Shop

One Prawn & Co by Chef Gwyneth Ang is best known for its robust prawn noodle claypot soup, recognised by the Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2022. While retaining its signature offering in the day, Chef Gwyneth wants to spice things up by transforming her coffee shop in MacPherson into a space to offer her brand new 12-Course Seafood Grill Dinner at night. The team carefully picks and procures all seafood ingredients, and dietary restrictions can be highlighted prior.

Made available from 21 February 2023, the seafood-focused menu is set at $128 per pax with a minimum of 2 to dine, with the choice of a top-up of $30 per pax for the free flow sake of the day. Diners can also opt for curated seasonal sakes that are rotated bi-monthly or other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Amaebi

To start off our dinner, we had an amuse-bouche of Amaebi. Topped on a crisp rice flower are avocado, tomatoes and sweet amaebi.

Starters

Next was a 4-item starter: a fresh Hyogo Oyster paired with mignonette granita, cured Amberjack with soy and crisp seaweed, poached White Shrimp with coconut and garam masala, and Soft Shell Crab in tempura style with a unique choice of kicap manis.

Our favourite was the White Shrimp for the harmonious blend of flavours - especially the choice of garam masala gave it a fragrant touch of heat.

Maitake Mushrooms on Bed of Burnt Barley Risotto 4.2/5

Moving on to the sharing plates, the Maitake Mushrooms impressed me with their earthiness and the great bite from the bed of burnt barley risotto underneath. We enjoyed this but wished the portion was bigger and the smokiness could come through a tad more.

Squid ‘Noodles’ with Salsa Verde, Black Olives 4.5/5

This Squid 'Noodles' with Salsa Verde had appetising salsa verde paired with squid noodles carrying a lovely smokiness. The zestiness, tanginess and hint of spice were perfect.

Scottish King Scallop with XO Chilli Jam 4.8/5

One of our favourites for the night was the Scottish King Scallop with XO Chilli Jam. While the king scallop was plump, tender and smokey, the flavour-packed XO chilli jam stole the show for us. It came in a generous portion of scallop shreds that carried just the right kick of spice. I would be the first to join the queue if Chef Gwyneth decides to sell this addictive chilli jam by the bottle!

Pork with Apple Compote 3.5/5

The highlight for proteins was the Onglet, a hanging tender steak with sunchoke cream and chives. As we don't take beef, it was replaced with Pork. Even though the grilled pork's texture was spot on, the seasoning was too salty.

Charcoal Grilled Turbot with Garlic Brown Butter and Capers 4.2/5

We were eyeing the Turbot as soon as Chef Gwyneth started grilling it over the bed of charcoal. The resulting fish meat was light, tender and flaky, paired with a heavier mix of garlic brown butter and capers. The unassuming pickled papaya salad on the side provided a contrasting acidity which balanced the overall dish.

Abalone Pao Fan 4.8/5

We were already quite full at this point of the meal but still wiped the Abalone Pao Fan clean. The dish is served in a claypot. One Prawn & Co's signature prawn bisque served as the base, with baby abalones, egg floss, rice puffs and rice added on. The rice puffs lost their crunchiness quickly, but the rich and hearty broth was more than satisfying.

Desserts

Dessert was a combination of Seasonal Fruits and Mini Ice Cream cones with burnt white chocolate ice cream. We appreciate the special attention down to the fruits, which were extremely sweet.

Note that reservations must be made via https://bit.ly/oneprawnandco as limited seats are available each day.
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.



One Prawn & Co
458 MacPherson Road
Singapore 368176
Tel: +65 98788897
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Nearest MRT: Mattar (DT Line), Tai Seng (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch
Tue-Sun: 11am - 5pm
Course Dinner
Tue-Sun: 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tai Seng MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk towards Macpherson Road. Turn right at Macpherson road. Walk down Macpherson Road to the stretch of shop houses. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Mattar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Merpati Road to Jalan Anggerek. Turn right onto Jalan Anggerek. Walk to the end of Jalan Anggerek. Turn right onto Macpherson Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 mintues. [Map]

Sonder @ Henderson - Bakery Bistro by Day, Euro-Asian Restaurant by Night, by Chef Joe Leong

Sonder, by Chef Joe Leong, is tucked in an industrial area in Henderson. It might be a little inaccessible to travel to, but it takes on a charming space and offers quite an exciting menu. It's a bakery-bistro by day and a Euro-Asian restaurant by night. Along with the Euro-Asian flavours are incorporated Thai, Chinese and local elements, which tie in with the Chef's cultural background.

If you are here for lunch, the 2-Course Menu is at $30/Pax, while the 3-Course Menu is at $45/Pax. A number of dishes are available a la carte as well.

For dinner, there are three menus to choose from. The Petit Menu of 4 Courses ($88/Pax), the Classic Menu of 7 Courses ($138/Pax) and the Gourmand Menu of 9 Courses ($188/Pax). We tried dishes from across these menus, with the majority of them focusing on local and Thai-inspired flavours.

Fresh Bakes

Before diving into dinner proper, we got a taste of their bakery items with a bread basket of freshly baked Butter Croissant ($3.50), Rye Sourdough ($5 for Half, $8 for Full) and Focaccia ($9). On the side, we had three housemade butter - classic salted butter, kombu and garlic. Our favourite was the light yet crisp focaccia that came with a lovely chew, paired with the classic and kombu butter. These bakes and more are available for walk-in purchases in the day, but try to make reservations before heading down to avoid disappointment.

Sea Urchin 4.2/5

We had a lovely start with an amuse bouche of Sea Urchin. It was a mouthful of sweet and creamy uni on a crispy sesame crumble, topped with refreshing calamansi foam.

Mapo Spinach Tofu 4/5

Part two of the amuse bouche was Mapo Spinach Tofu. The smooth, silky tofu is deep-fried and topped with Sichuan-infused minced pork. It was appetising and boasted a mild heat.

Aubergine 3.8/5

For our starter, we had the Japanese Aubergine paired with an interesting red curry sorbet, pearl onions, sundried cherry tomatoes and housemade crispy chips. It was a fun dish, especially with the contrasting addition of the red curry sorbet, but we also thought the tangy sorbet masked the aubergine a little more than we liked.

Risotto 4.2/5

Who would have guessed the Risotto is Chef Joe's take on our local classic chicken rice? With a roulade of chicken, spring onion pesto and ginger tuile, it's finished off with drops of housemade chilli and dark soya sauce. The risotto was fragrant and creamy, retaining a pleasant bite. Our ginger tuile was a tiny bit burnt, but it was an enjoyable dish. It is also available a la carte during lunch for $20.

Seasonal Fish 4/5

The Barramundi arrived with a distinct fragrance. It was served two ways - steamed and fried in a garlic lime jus. The fish was firm yet tender, and while the broth looked mild, it packed a robust, tangy punch.

Kurobuta Pork Collar 4.2/5

Inspired by many's favourite Thai street food, moo ping, the Kurobuta Pork Collar features burnt apple and a coconut glaze. Marinated and glazed in a coconut glaze, the pork collar is first sous vide, then grilled over a charcoal fire where the smokiness gets locked in. The skillfully cut apple is made into a roll and lends a tangy sweetness to the tender pork.

Red Ruby 4.5/5

We honestly did not expect to enjoy this Red Ruby ($15) as much, but Chef Joe's modern and delicate rendition wow-ed us. On a base of coconut crumble, you have coconut sorbet and a thin rose-flavoured milk skin layered on top with crunchy red rubies on the side. It's mildly sweetened and a refreshing way to end the meal.

Apple Crumble 4.2/5

As an additional dessert, Chef Joe recommended his signature Apple Crumble ($20). Lightly breaking through the thin-shelled “apple” will reveal caramelised apple cubes in brandy and apple mousse. These paired delightfully with the chocolate crumble base.

Petit Fours

Our meal ended with Petit Fours of dragon fruit, chocolate tart, and a strawberry mousse macaron.

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.


Sonder
217 Henderson Road
Singapore 159555
Tel: +65 65134502
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Nearest MRT: Redhill MRT (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 5pm, 6pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon and Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Redhill MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Redhill MRT station (Stop ID 10209). Take bus 145. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Blangah MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Walk to bus stop opposite Telok Blangah MRT station (Stop ID 14169). Take bus 176. Alight 4 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Racines @ Sofitel Singapore City Centre - New Semi-dinner Buffet Showcasing Newly Minted Executive Chef Eric Seow's Culinary Creations

Racines at Sofitel Singapore City Centre has recently introduced a new dining concept to present a weekday semi-buffet dinner. This refreshed dining concept is also Chef Eric Seow's debut as the hotel's newly minted Executive Chef, allowing you to have a taste of his culinary creations. You can enjoy a choice of main course along with a well-considered spread of salads, soups, appetisers, and desserts.

Whole Salmon Confit

Starting from the Starters station, you will find a gorgeous Whole Salmon Confit with caviar, served with crème fraîche, chives, eggs and shallots.

Honey-smoked Duck Breast

Another of my favourite starters is these plump slices of Honey-smoked Duck Breast. The zesty sweet caramelised pineapple and tomato salsa cut through the meat's richness and livened the dish with vibrant flavours.

French Cheese and Charcuterie

Country Pate

Another highlight of this semi-buffet spread is the range of fine French Cheeses and Charcuterie available for selection. Apart from the beautiful cheeses, the housemade Country Pate with cognac, dried fruits and pistachios wrapped in bacon should be on your cheese board. It's perfect with a glass of wine or rose if you are in for more indulgence.

Sushi

Sahimi

Assorted Sushi and Sashimi are also available, beautifully arranged in Japanese-style boxes. Replacing the regular tuna sashimi with Tataki Tuna definitely sets itself apart from the usual buffet sashimi fare.

Chilled Seafood

There is also a small but well-curated seafood station.

Arborio Risotto 3.8/5

The Main courses feature a balance of western and Asian delights that showcase Chef Eric's strength in both cooking styles. If you wish to skip the meats, the lusciously creamy Arborio Risotto is toothsome with a chewy texture put together by short-grained rice and sauteed morel mushrooms. It comes with a finishing shaving of truffle to excite your senses.

Wagyu Flank Steak 4/5

Wagyu Flank Steak wows not just with its rich beefy flavour and tenderness, but I also appreciate how Chef Eric has given it a touch of Asian flair by giving it an umami dashi soy glaze.

Sambal Seafood Rice 4/5

Under the Asian selection, the humble sweet, and spicy Sambal Seafood Rice shines with a morish citrusy sambal paste that complements the fresh seafood and turmeric rice.

The buffet offers one of the best dessert selections. From mini caneles, rum babas, and chocolate tarts to dainty Fraisier Cake, a vanilla mascarpone with strawberries, sable breton and mixed berry sauce, they are each exquisitely made by the pastry chef. Also available are Belgian Waffles served a la minute with chantilly cream and berry compote from the live station.

Semi-Buffet Dinner at Racines is available Monday to Thursday, 6pm to 10pm.
- $88++ per adult
- $44++ per child (6 to 11 years old)

For dining reservations, please visit https://bit.ly/racines-weekday-buffet. For enquiries, please call +65 6428 5000 or email HA152@sofitel.com.

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.


Racines
Sofitel City Centre
9 Wallich Street
5th floor
Singapore 078885
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT Station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

LUCE by Davide Giacomelli @ InterContinental Singapore - New Italian Restaurant Taking A Bistronomic Approach

Taking over the defunct Ash & Elm at InterContinental Singapore is LUCE by Davide Giacomelli. This new Italian restaurant embodies the marrying of gastronomic Italian dining experience with a warm and inviting bistro ambience.

Before starting our dinner, we are served complimentary bread paired with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. There is also a pot of herb with crackers placed in it.

Bruschetta 4/5

The Bruschetta ($19) here is enormous. It is not those that you can finish in one or two bites. The bread spread with grated garlic is toasted until very crispy. It is then piled with parma ham, buffalo mozzarella, cherry tomato concasse, rocket leaves and basil.

Octopus Peperonata 4.2/5

A recommended dish on the menu is the Octopus Peperonata ($36), a Sicilian-style cooked octopus pan-roasted with ratatouille of red and yellow pepper, red onions and fresh tomatoes. We enjoyed how the lovely sauce complemented the firm yet tender octopus.

Tagliatelle Coda di Manzo 4.5/5

The Tagliatelle Coda di Manzo ($36) may look plain, but each slurp contains punchy flavours from the deboned oxtail and shaved cheese. Not forgetting the fresh homemade tagliatelle pasta.

Acquerello Lobster 4.5/5

A LUCE signature must be their Acquerello Lobster ($46). Each mouthful of the carnaroli rice is cooked in lobster stock packed with robust crustacean flavours. It also comes with half de-shelled boston lobster.

Fragola 4.5/5

Luce-misu 4.5/5

For dessert, we had the Fragola ($18) and Luce-misu ($18). The Fragola is a light, sweet strawberry yoghurt mousse, yuzu chocolate cream, strawberry coulis, and dulce crumble. The Luce-misu is an upgraded version of the classic tiramisu sitting on top of a chocolate cake. It is like having two desserts in one.

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]

Sol & Luna @ CapitaSpring - A New Latin-European Bistro Nestled In Lush Greenery

Sol & Luna is the latest concept by 1-Group perched 100 metres up on Singapore's latest 51-storey skyscraper CapitaSpring. It is a Latin-European bistro nestled in the building's green oasis, a unique sanctuary-in-the-sky of lush greenery.

Fried Soft Shell Prawn 4.2/5

We began our dinner at Sol & Luna with the Fried Soft Shell Prawn ($16) served with lime aioli and parsley. There is no need to de-shell the prawns. It can be eaten together with the crispy shell. An addictive snack to kick start the dinner, especially with a few glasses of drinks.

Grilled Tomino Cheese 3.5/5

You may like the Grilled Tomino Cheese ($22) wrapped with parma ham if you are a cheese lover. You can also taste a hint of sweetness from the acacia honey, coupled with a peppery kick from the black pepper. To enjoy the gooey grilled tomino cheese, you can spread it on the crostini.

Prawn & Octopus Nicoise Salad 4/5

The Prawn & Octopus Nicoise Salad ($25) will delight the carnivores as the meats are more than the greens. You can find prawn, octopus, quail eggs, haricot beans, Rescoldo potatoes, olive and Spanish anchovy on the plate.

White Gazpacho 3.5/5

Next, we have the White Gazpacho ($19) with grape segments, marcona almonds, grilled half avocado and mixed seeds, drizzled with a few drops of basil oil. I find it quite bare with just half an avocado floating in the middle of the white gazpacho in terms of presentation. While the cold soup is tasty, complemented by the various textural bites of the ingredients, I thought the cold soup was not chill enough.

Grilled Australian Shark Bay 4/5

This is our third prawn dish for the night, Grilled Australian Shark Bay ($25). There is nothing fancy, just simple cooking to appreciate the sweetness of the tiger prawns, topped with corn and tomato salsa.

Truffle Risotto 4.2/5

One of the crowd's favourites is the Truffle Risotto ($25), cooked to a delightful creaminess packed with beautiful flavours from the grana padano truffle and mushroom paste. Customers have the option to add fresh seasonal truffles, subject to market price.

Wood-Fired Sardine 4.2/5

The dish that surprised me was the Wood-fired Sardine ($19). Shaped like a sausage, it is actually a concoction of sardine, mussel, herb and pine nuts wrapped with parma ham, paired with butternut puree. There is something familiar with the wood-fired sardine that I can't pinpoint. It just grows on me to go back for more.

Baked Veal Shank Pie 3.5/5

Good for sharing is the Baked Veal Shank Pie ($28). Tearing the puff pastry apart reveals a bowl of chunky veal, carrot, onion, and potato in delicious veal jus. Though I find the veal shank was a bit tough for my liking, the rest are well executed.

Escalivada 3/5

As for the Escalivada ($14), I do not know how to appreciate the mushy texture of the ragout of eggplant paired with capsicum, pearl onions, Spanish anchovies and hazelnut oil. However, the taste profile is indeed delicious.

12 Hours Slow Cooked Welsh Lamb 3.5/5

The 12 Hours Slow Cooked Welsh Lamb ($28) is cooked to fork tender, paired excellently with the bordelaise sauce, broccolini and garlic crumbs. 

Sol & Luna Tiramisu 3/5

For dessert, we tried the Sol & Luna Tiramisu ($16) and Tarte Tatin with Creme Anglaise Sauce ($13). The tiramisu is light-handed compared to other versions I have.

Tarte Tatin with Creme Anglaise Sauce 4/5

My preference goes for the Tarte Tatin with Creme Anglaise Sauce. Pour the creme anglaise sauce over the caramelised apple layer resting on the puffy pastry for a sweet ending to a satisfying dinner.

Overall, Sol & Luna is a beautiful restaurant on top of CapitaSpring. It brings together dishes from the Latin-European region - Italy, France, Portugal and Spain, reinvented with a twist and finesse. While there are hits and misses for the dishes, it is still worthy of a visit to immerse yourself in the green oasis.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sol & Luna
CapitaSpring
88 Market Street
#17-01
Singapore 048948
Tel: +65 80314316
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Nearest MRT: Raffles MRT (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Breakfast
Daily: 7am - 1045am
Weekend Brunch
Sat & Sun: 10am - 230pm
High Tea
Daily: 230pm - 5pm
Lunch
Mon-Fri: 11am - 230pm
Dinner
Daily: 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Malacca Street. Walk down Malacca Street to Market Street. Cross the street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]