Showing posts with label Roasted Chicken. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Roasted Chicken. Show all posts

Thursday, June 12, 2025

Swensen’s Unlimited @ Geneo - Halal-certified Buffet Offering Peranakan, Seafood, Hand-stretched Pizzas and Desserts

IMG_5561

Swensen's popular buffet concept, Swensen's Unlimited, has launched its third outlet at the newly opened Geneo Mall in Singapore Science Park, following earlier openings at VivoCity and Changi Airport Terminal 2.

IMG_5553

What sets this new branch apart is its spacious 200-seat layout, designed to host special events such as weddings or corporate gatherings. The space features a customisable LED backdrop and a private suite with an attached bathroom - ideal as a bridal room or multi-purpose event space.

IMG_5556

Pricing starts at $35++ for weekday lunch and $38++ for weekday dinner (Monday to Thursday). On Fridays, weekends, public holidays, and special occasions (such as Mother's Day), the price is $50++ for lunch and $60++ for dinner. Lunch runs from 11am to 5pm, and dinner from 5pm to 10pm, with a 90-minute dining limit. Menus vary slightly depending on the day.

IMG_5558
Swensen’s Unlimited Buffet 3.8/5

Begin at the Seafood on Ice section with free-flow tiger prawns, mussels, clams, and flower crabs. While reasonably fresh, it was a pity that the seafood lacked flavour.

IMG_5589
Cold Cuts & Appetisers

Next to the Seafood on Ice are several cold cuts & appetisers, including salads and cheeses.

IMG_5599

IMG_5562
Hot Food

IMG_5603

The Hot Food lineup consists of Indian, Asian, Western and Peranakan dishes, as well as soups such as Cream of Mushroom.

IMG_5581
Mala Stir-Fry Pot

IMG_5583
Mala Firecracker Chicken

The Hot Food spotlight shines on three outlet-exclusive dishes: Ayam Masak Merah, Mala Firecracker Chicken, and Mala Stir-Fry Pot, which packs a strong kick of spice.

IMG_5563
Live Carving Station

There are also a couple of live food stations. First, the Live Carving Station featured fresh roast meats, including Roast Striploin and Roast Chicken.

IMG_5572
Pizza Station: Trio Cheese Hand-stretched Pizza

IMG_5635
Pasta Station Aglio Olio Spaghetti

Second, the Pizza and Pasta Stations offered Hand-stretched Pizzas and freshly prepared pasta with various sauces and pasta options.

IMG_5629
Baked Rice and Noodles Station: Laksa

Lastly, the Baked Rice and Noodles Station offered Swensen's classic baked rice flavours (Curry Chicken, Chicken, and Fish) and two noodle options: Beef Noodles and Laksa.

IMG_5604
Ice Cream and Gelato

Moving to the last and most popular sweets section, diners will be welcomed with Swensen's massive range of Ice Cream and Gelato on rotation from its book of 48 flavours. They are made up of a mix of classics and newer creations. Some flavours that caught our eye include Zero Sugar Sticky Chewy Chocolate, Berry Hibiscus, Smoked Oak Tiramisu, and Chrysanthemum with Choco Fudge.

IMG_5640
Ice Cream and Gelato

The assortment of condiments allows you to customise your sundaes - do make sure to try their outlet-exclusive Pistachio Kunafa Sauce!

IMG_5619
Croissants and Waffles

IMG_5615
Chocolate Fountain

IMG_5609
Assorted Kueh

Continuing with the options for sweets, diners can also indulge in a chocolate fountain, croissants, waffles, assorted kuehs, fruits, and more.

Please ensure you make a reservation before heading down, especially for meals on weekends and special occasions.

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.


Swensen’s Unlimited
Geneo
#01-06
1 Science Park Drive
Singapore 118221
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Kent Ridge (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily 11am - 10pm

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

Monday, April 7, 2025

Bonjour by Ma Cuisine @ Craig Road - Breakfast With A Parisian Vibe

IMG_2650

The much-beloved Michelin-starred Ma Cuisine has introduced Bonjour by Ma Cuisine, capturing a Parisian bistro's casual and relaxed charm. Sharing the same space at Craig Road, the menu is crafted with classic French breakfast and lunch favourites, reimagined with a modern touch.

IMG_2629
Poireaux Vinaigrette 4/5

For appetisers, we tried the Poireaux Vinaigrette ($15.80) and a Lyonnaise speciality, Quenelle De Brochet Sauce Nantua ($20.80). The first is a traditional French dish featuring leeks slow-cooked to tender perfection, drizzled with a tangy mustard vinaigrette, and topped with delicate mimosa egg crumbles. I love leeks, and this dish didn't disappoint — their almost creamy texture was beautifully complemented by the bright acidity of the vinaigrette and the richness of the egg crumbles, with crispy mini bread crumbles adding a satisfying contrast.

IMG_2666
Quenelle De Brochet Sauce Nantua 5/5

The Quenelle De Brochet ($20.80) pays homage to Lyon's culinary heritage. It is similar to our fish paste but with a much softer, almost creamy texture and a subtly milky taste. The accompanying sauce, Nantua — a luxurious crayfish butter sauce enriched with cream and Cognac — adds depth of flavour while further enhancing the dish's rich, velvety mouthfeel.

IMG_2653
Croque Madame Truffé 4/5

For a more breakfast-leaning option, the bistro's Croque Madame Truffé ($28.80) takes indulgence to the next level. Extra-crispy, thin and buttery sourdough encases truffle, Comté cheese, and ham. But what truly stole the show for me was the beautifully and meticulously executed sunny-side-up egg — its golden yolk glistening in a deep orangey hue, beckoning to be unveiled.

IMG_2641
Linguine au Parmesan 4.5/5

Another much-raved-about dish is the handmade Linguine au Parmesan ($14.90). Tossed in a sauce made with 24-month-aged Parmigiano Reggiano, the handmade tagliatelle was cooked to the perfect doneness, allowing it to uphold the richness of the sauce while remaining surprisingly light on the palate. Personally, I would have enjoyed it even more with a crack of coarse black pepper.

IMG_2675
Coquelet Français Rôti 4.5/5

The Coquelet Français Rôti ($19.90), a rustic French spring roast chicken seasoned with herbes de Provence, garlic, and butter, was simple but well executed. It offered crisped skin and succulent, flavourful meat.

IMG_2682
Trou Normand 4/5

IMG_2690
Crème Caramel 5/5

We tried the Trou Normand ($12.60) and Crème Caramel ($9.80) for desserts. The first was a scoop of apple sorbet with a shot of Calvados Château du Breuil 15 YO, delivering a boozy and refreshing kick that awakened my senses. The latter was a comforting classic, featuring a smooth, decadent custard dressed in bittersweet caramelised sugar.

IMG_2616

To round off the experience, sip on a glass of wine or indulge in classic French apéritifs such as Kir Royal and Mimosa.

IMG_2696

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.


Bonjour Ma Cuisine
39 Craig Road
Singapore 089677
Tel: +65 9627 1058
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line), Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am - 230pm
(Closed on Sat & Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road. Walk to Craig Road. Turn left and walk down Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Duxton Plain Park. Turn right and walk to Neil Road. Cross the road using the underpass. Take the staircase and walk to Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

3) Aloght at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road. Cross the road at the junction of Craig Road and Neil Road. Turn left onto Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, July 6, 2024

Fortuna @ Craig Road - Singapore’s First Sicilian-Neapolitan Trattoria with 50+ Hour Fermentation Pizza Dough

IMG_5094

IMG_5058

First started in Sydney, Fortuna at Craig Road is Singapore's first Sicilian-Neapolitan trattoria. Created by an Italian trio – master pizzaiolo Giorgio Sorce (ranked 87th worldwide), Michelin-starred chef Omar Tutino, and F&B operator Egon Marzaioli – they aim to offer authentic Sicilian and Neapolitan cuisine. This second outlet adopts the same contemporary design as the one in Sydney, delivering a welcoming, laid-back vibe.

IMG_5074
Ricotta Mantecata

IMG_5078
Pane Di Casa 5/5

Our meal began with a great starter: Pane Di Casa ($12), served with Ricotta Mantecata ($16). The wood-fired bread, simply dressed with salmoriglio (a Sicilian sauce made of garlic, lemon, oil, and oregano), was incredibly fluffy with a bit of chewiness. It shares the same dough as the Napoletana Pizza, which has undergone a 50+ hour fermentation. The Ricotta Mantecata, one of three dips on the menu, features ricotta jazzed up with honey and house-made Fortuna chilli. The combination of bread and dip was pure joy.

IMG_5085
Cuoppo Di Pesce 3.5/5

For Antipasti, the Cuoppo Di Pesce ($25) showcased one of Neapolitan's popular street foods – fried calamari, elevated with garlic lemon dressing and salumi XO mayo. Three types of flour were used in the batter to achieve a light and crisp texture.

IMG_5091
Not Just A 4 Cheeses 4.5/5

Pizza at Fortuna is crafted in the distinctive style known as the "Kingdom of the Two Sicilies," using 100% Sicilian ingredients. First, we had the Napoletana Pizza (available in 22cm or 30cm). The dough left to rise for 50 hours through a two-process fermentation, is shaped four hours later and baked in a wood-fired Valoriani oven. The flavour we tried, Not Just A 4 Cheeses ($29), combined Fior di Latte, Gorgonzola Dolce, Ricotta Salata, and Parmesan Chips with sweet fig compote to round off the cheesy flavours. This was the best, as it allowed the dough's natural taste and beautiful texture to shine.

IMG_5151
Gambero & Stracciata 3/5

Next, we tried the Fried & Baked Pizza (22cm), which is double-cooked by frying and baking for extra crispiness. The Gambero & Stracciata ($38) featured delicious Stracciata and Gamberi di Massara toppings, but the baking process dried and toughened the fried dough, especially the portion under the toppings. Typically, based on what I had tried, fried pizza is crisp and puffy on the outside while remaining soft and chewy inside. I reckoned they could have draped the cheese over the fried dough and topped it with the other ingredients without baking it.

IMG_5105
Truffle & Anchovies 2.5/5

The Contemporary Pizza Al Ruoto, cooked in an aluminium pan, follows a unique three-way pre-fermented dough process that takes 18 hours and achieves 80% hydration, resulting in an incredibly crunchy exterior and soft interior akin to focaccia. The Truffle & Anchovies ($42) combined walnut whipped butter, anchovies, and truffle. While the dough was delectable, the toppings and dough didn't meld together well, and the combination of anchovies and truffles needed to be more harmonious too.

IMG_5117
‘1000’ Layers Lasagna 2.8/5

All of Fortuna's pasta is made in-house à la minute using quality flour from Naples, a balanced mix of semolina and 00 flour, local free-range eggs, and Sicilian olive oil. The '1000' Layers Lasagna ($36) is prepared the way Egon's mother in Sicily makes it, with layers of Provolone del Monaco and Bronte Pistacchio pesto. The bechamel sauce allowed the flavourful Mortadella to shine, accenting the butteriness of the provolone cheese. The nuttiness of the lasagne imparted from the Pistacchio pesto elevated the overall flavour profile. However, served cross-sectioned and pan-fried to achieve crispy edges based on the recipe, it was nostalgic but lacked the satisfaction of tucking into a hearty lasagna, feeling more like a snack than a main. And it was just too compact and flat to allow the homemade pasta to shine.

IMG_5127
Spaghetti 3/5

The Spaghetti ($38) showcases succulent Mazzara King Prawn, served with a bisque accentuated with Fortuna Chili. The depth of crustacean flavours was impressive, but the salt level could be more restrained, as it sometimes overwhelmed the diced King Prawn.

IMG_5134
Pollo Marinara 3.5/5

We tried Pollo Marinara ($34) for mains, a half-roasted chicken served with olive tapenade, capers, and San Marzano tomatoes. The chicken was aptly seasoned and tender, with a rustic charm.

IMG_5156
Fortunamisu 3/5

To sum up our dinner, we had Fortunamisu ($18) for dessert. The house tiramisu is made with Savoiardi ladyfingers, Illy Caffe coffee, and chocolate crumble. The crumble's textural crunch was a nice touch, but it could have been improved by more coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a touch of bittersweet alcohol.

IMG_5064

Opt for the full experience with their 4-course Italian set lunch at $39++. Enjoy wood-fired bread with your choice of dip, a selection of antipasti, a choice of main course, and a delightful dessert with coffee.

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.


Fortuna
7 Craig Road
Singapore 089667
Tel: +65 9115 1597
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 930pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm


Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchid Hotel. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Continue on Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road and walk to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Turn right onto Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, June 1, 2024

The Masses @ Arcade The Capitol Kemposki - Relocated to a More Centralised Place While Maintaining the Pricing Affordable

TheMassesCapitol45

The Masses by Chef Dylan Ong has relocated from Beach Road to the prestigious Arcade at the Capitol Kempinski Hotel. This new chapter introduces a refreshed menu that marries contemporary French cuisine with bold Asian elements, delivering a unique Franco-Asian dining experience. The menu offers a cuisine with a French core harmoniously layered with Asian elements.

TheMassesCapitol2
Squid Ink Kueh Pie Tee 4.2/5

We began our culinary journey with the Squid Ink Kueh Pie Tee ($12.90/4pc). Unlike the traditional version stuffed with cooked jicama, Chef Dylan elevates this snack by infusing the shell with squid ink and topping it with fresh crab meat. The sweetness of the crab pairs beautifully with the savoury crunch of the shell, making for a delightful start.

TheMassesCapitol9
Smoked Pu Er Caviar & Beignet 4/5

Next, we tried the Smoked Pu Er Caviar & Beignet ($9.90/2pc). These fluffy beignets are filled with yuzu creme and topped with Avruga caviar, which has been smoked in-house with pu er tea. The tea's subtle aroma and the caviar burst create an elegant and unique flavour profile.

TheMassesCapitol14
Steak Tartare 4/5

The Steak Tartare ($26.90) here is a symphony of flavours and textures. Served with sour cream, wasabi, mustard, charred onion, and pickled chye sim and topped with fried garlic chips, shallot chips, and caviar, it offers a rich and complex taste. Spreading the tartare on the accompanying shiso Kueh Loyang adds a crispy contrast that enhances each bite.

TheMassesCapitol16
Salad Nicoise 3.5/5

A refreshing and healthy option is the Salad Nicoise ($23.90). This vibrant dish features gem lettuce, seasonal vegetables, tomatoes, olives, and aburi swordfish, all dressed in a tuna emulsion and topped with a soft-boiled egg. It perfectly balances flavours and textures, making it a standout salad.

TheMassesCapitol21

TheMassesCapitol25
Moules Marinieres 4/5

The Moules Marinieres ($16.90) is an innovative twist on the classic chawanmushi. Beneath the uni sabayon sprinkled with Espelette pepper lies a soft and creamy steamed egg custard with blue mussels. It's a delightful mix of textures and flavours paired with a crispy rice paper cracker.

TheMassesCapitol26
Wagyu Beef Tongue 4/5

The Wagyu Beef Tongue served atop a crispy scallion pancake, is layered with red wine onion marmalade, pickled mustard seeds, pickled onions, shiso leaf, Dijon mustard, and lemon vinaigrette. The sweetness of the marmalade and the sharpness of the pickled elements create a harmonious balance, making this dish a highlight.

TheMassesCapitol38
Stuffed Zucchini Flower 3/5

The Stuffed Zucchini Flower ($29.90), air-flown from Holland, is filled with mozzarella cheese and drizzled with lavender honey. Though the flower-to-cheese ratio felt a bit off, the lemon and caper aioli lifted the dish, adding a zesty finish.

TheMassesCapitol31
Lemon Sole Meuniere 4/5

The Lemon Sole Meuniere ($39.90) makes a grand entry with a whole sole fish served in an "Asian Grenobloise" sauce topped with coldwater shrimp and sliced almonds. The unique twist of salted vegetables blended into the sauce offers a nod to the traditional Teochew steamed fish.

TheMassesCapitol35
Dry Aged Spiced Roasted Chicken 4.5/5

A favourite is the Dry Aged Spiced Roasted Chicken ($21.90/half). The tender chicken served with parsnip puree, chilli jam, and charred kailan in a soy sauce chicken jus, stands out for its flavorful skin and well-balanced accompaniments.

TheMassesCapitol47
Duck Confit 4.8/5

The Duck Confit ($21.90), a signature dish from Chef Dylan's early career, is served atop rice noodles with local mushrooms and mirabelle plum vinaigrette, finished with house-cured egg yolk. This dish reinterprets the local moonlight Hor Fun, adding a nostalgic yet innovative touch.

TheMassesCapitol50
Steak Au Poivre 5/5

The Steak Au Poivre ($29.90) features 2GR Australian Wagyu seared and served in a browned butter sauce accented by lemon and capers. The tender shoulder cut is packed with robust flavour, and the black pepper sauce is truly the soul of this dish.

TheMassesCapitol57
Corn & Cereal 4.5/5

For dessert, we had the Corn & Cereal ($13.90), a warm toffee and corn pudding served in whiskey caramel sauce, topped with cereal and housemade cereal ice cream. It's not overly sweet and offers a delightful play of textures and flavours.

TheMassesCapitol54
Truffle & Tulakalum, TNT 4.2/5

The Truffle & Tulakalum, TNT ($15.90) is a savory-sweet chocolate-based dessert. Housemade black truffle ice cream is paired with Valrhona Tulakalum chocolate ganache and piped chocolate mousse and finished with shaved black truffle, sea salt, and lemon verbena oil. This dessert is a must-try for chocolate lovers.

The Masses at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel offers a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience with its Franco-Asian cuisine. Chef Dylan Ong's innovative take on classic dishes and his use of premium ingredients make this a must-visit destination. The varied menu ensures there is something for everyone, and I'm excited to see how the menu evolves over time.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Masses
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
13 Stamford Road
#01-84
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6518 4988
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]