The Plump Frenchman @ Tan Quee Lan Street - Rustic French Classics Meet The Bold Spirit of Zouk

Say bonjour to The Plump Frenchman, where rustic French classics meet the bold spirit of Zouk. The launch of The Plump Frenchman marks an exciting new chapter for Zouk Group, blending the heartiness of classic French cuisine with the group’s signature flair for bold, vibrant experiences. It brings a fresh yet rooted take on French food, one that celebrates generosity, warmth, and comfort.

The menu at The Plump Frenchman is a reflection of Executive Chef Lorenz Hoja's culinary journey and affection for French cuisine. As Zouk Group's Chief Culinary Officer, Chef Lorenz infuses every dish with the creativity and soul honed from years spent in some of the world's most celebrated kitchens, including those in London, Paris, and Singapore. Now, at The Plump Frenchman, he reimagines French fare with warmth and approachability, inviting diners to experience French cuisine in a feel-good way. At the media preview, Executive Chef Lorenz Hoja also shared his philosophy that "French cuisine doesn't have to be rigid or overly refined; it should be delicious, generous, and deeply comforting."

While there's an à la carte menu, a good way to experience their offerings is through the Set Menu de Canut, available Monday to Saturday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Diners can choose from a two-course set (main and dessert) at $25++, a three-course set (starter, main, and dessert) at $35++, or a four-course set (two starters, one main, and dessert) at $47++. The menu is reasonably priced, and Chef Lorenz promises that diners will leave feeling satisfied and full.

(As this was a media preview event, please note that event photos may differ from actual menu items)

Saumon En Papilotte 4/5

One of their signature dishes would be the Saumon En Papilotte (available on the set menu with a $15 supplement). Salmon is wrapped in parchment paper, allowing it to steam in its own juices alongside delicate aromatics. Infused with fennel, lemon, and rosemary, the dish is light yet flavourful, fragrant yet comforting.

Complementing the main course is a selection of satisfying sides ($9 each). We sampled a few, including the pommes de terre rôti (crispy roasted potatoes), silky mashed potatoes, carottes Vichy (glazed carrots with a hint of sweetness), and green beans. All were delicious and well prepared.

Poulet Rotisserie 4/5

Ham Sandwich 3.8/5

Another wholesome and hearty choice on the menu is the Poulet Rotisserie selection, a classic done right. Guests can opt for either a half or whole chicken ($17 half/ $34 whole), slow-roasted for tender, juicy meat. Each portion is served with a fresh mesclun salad, zesty pickles, and a bold sriracha sauce.

Other featured menu items include:

Coq Au Vin

Coq Au Vin ($37) is a classic French dish that stars tender chicken slowly braised in rich red wine, infused with earthy mushrooms, smoky bacon, and sweet carrots. The slow cooking melds the flavours into a savoury, comforting stew with a luscious, velvety sauce.

Chipirons

Chipirons ($16) is composed of baby squid stuffed with chorizo and topped with parsley, lemon, garlic, and olive oil, bringing together fresh Mediterranean ingredients in a straightforward preparation that highlights flavour and texture.

Salade Nicoise

For a light, healthy dish, Salade Nicoise ($24) features a refreshing mix of hard-boiled eggs, tender tuna, crisp green beans, potatoes, olives, and tomatoes, all tossed together to create a balanced salad.

Anchois

This dish of Anchois ($13) pairs salty anchovies with fresh tomatoes for a mild sweetness. Fresh basil and olive oil tie everything together for a simple, tasty snack.

Tiramisu de Citron 4/5

Desserts are a must at any French restaurant, and the Tiramisu de Citron ($11) offers a fresh, tangy twist on the classic favourite. It has a slightly sour note, but it's quite intriguing. Other dessert options include the Clafoutis ($11), featuring seasonal fruits and Chantilly cream, and the Mousse au Chocolat ($14), which was a bit too sweet for my dining companion but still quite enjoyable for me.

The Plump Frenchman is located a short walk from Bugis MRT, within the new Guoco Midtown II building, making it a convenient new dining destination for hearty, comfort food.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Plump Frenchman
20 Tan Quee Lan Street
#01-20
Singapore 188107
Tel: +65 6817 3967
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sun: 11am - 3pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to destiation. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Sushi Muni (無二) @ International Plaza - New Kid On The Block, Offering $98 Lunch Omakase

Tucked away in International Plaza, Sushi Muni (無二) has quietly made a name for itself in just over six months since its opening. This intimate 10-seater omakase restaurant, often fully booked, has cultivated a loyal following who return time and again for Chef Chon's meticulous creations. The name 無二, meaning "one of a kind," perfectly encapsulates the restaurant's philosophy, offering diners a culinary experience marked by purity, precision and artistry.

We had the pleasure of trying their Omakase lunch, priced at $98 per person, which takes guests on a thoughtfully curated journey across multiple courses.

Umibudo Salad 3.8/5

The meal started with a refreshing Umibudo Salad. Served alongside hot green tea, the crunchy fresh seagrapes added a pleasant saltiness, balancing the light and palatable flavours of the salad.

Muzuku with Ebi Chawanmushi 3.8/5

The second course, Muzuku with Ebi Chawanmushi, showcased an interesting textural play with Japanese seaweed and minced shrimp, lightly accented by a hint of ginger. This creative take on chawanmushi was both surprising and enjoyable.

Sashimi 4/5

Next came the Sashimi course featuring Mizu Tako and Chutoro. The Mizu Tako is thinly sliced giant octopus leg, recommended to be paired with sea salt instead of the usual soy sauce, allowing its natural flavours to shine. The Chutoro was fatty, sweet and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Wagyu Sukishabu 4.5/5

The highlight of the meal for us was undoubtedly the Wagyu Sukishabu - Presented with great flair, the beautifully marbled Wagyu was lightly swished in broth right before our eyes, served atop a poached egg and finished with crispy sushi rice for added texture.

Tomio Miso Kuzu Somen 4/5

Following that was the Tomio Miso Kuzu Somen, served in a charming cup. Made with konjac, the somen offered a slightly crunchy texture, paired with tiny Tomio fishes in a soy milk broth that was light and refreshing.

The sushi selection featured five varieties: Shima Aji, Ama Ebi, Tachiuo, Otoro, and Uni. While the freshness was undeniable, we personally found the texture of a few pieces a tad slimy for our taste.

As a pleasant surprise, we were also served a bonus Handroll with Pickled Gourd, offering a sweet and crunchy bite. Additionally, the chef presented us with a special mackerel sushi of the day, which we found slightly fishy.

Torotakudon 4.2/5

Another standout was the Torotakudon, generously topped with fresh minced tuna and ikura, a dish that is both indulgent and straightforward

Miso Soup 3.5/5

Homemade Tamago 4/5

As we approached the end of the meal, we were served Miso Soup and an eye-catching Homemade Tamago. The tamago resembled a chiffon cake, subtly sweet and savoury with hidden layers of fish paste, shrimps and taro bits. This is such a delightful twist on tradition.

Matcha Pudding with Corn Shiratama and Hokkaido Red Bean 4/5

Dessert brought a satisfying close to the meal with the Matcha Pudding with Corn Shiratama and Hokkaido Red Bean. The handmade corn shiratama offered a wonderful mochi-like texture, while the stretchy matcha pudding and perfectly cooked red bean rounded off the dessert beautifully.

Sushi Muni offers an impressive value with their $98 lunch omakase, available Tuesday through Saturday, with two seatings daily. Choose either Sushi Omakase or the Omakase Course that we had. For dinner, guests can enjoy the elevated Muni Omakase experience for $198 per person. Whether you're a seasoned omakase enthusiast or a curious first-timer, Sushi Muni delivers an artful and memorable dining experience well worth trying.

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


Sushi Muni (無二)
International Plaza
10 Anson Road
#02-28
Singapore 079903
Tel: +65 8492 6387
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 6pm - 10pm
Tue-Sat: 1130am - 1pm, 130pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Vincenzo Capuano @ Robertson Quay - World Champion of Contemporay Pizza, Opens First Asia Outpost in Singapore

With over 30 outlets across the globe and a prestigious #12 ranking on the 50 Top World Artisan Pizza Chains 2025, Vincenzo Capuano brings his award-winning pizzas to Asia for the very first time, right here in Singapore. Best known for clinching the title of World Champion of Contemporary Pizza in 2022, Chef Vincenzo’s philosophy lies in tradition, craftsmanship, and a dough that defies gravity.

At the heart of his pizza is a long-leavened, highly hydrated dough made with “Nuvola Super” flour, specially developed in collaboration with a flour mill. The result? A feather-light, airy crust that almost melts in your mouth. In a nod to Neapolitan dining culture, diners are encouraged to use the pair of golden scissors at each table to slice through the pillowy pizza crust themselves, an interactive touch that highlights the dough’s soft structure and signature puffed edge.

Insalata Al Salmone 3.5/5

We kicked off the meal with the Insalata Al Salmone ($26), a hearty salad that’s pleasingly more protein-forward than leafy. Smoked salmon mingles with rucola, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and capers, all dressed in a roasted truffle sesame vinaigrette. It's tangy and refreshing, though more of a light prelude than a standout.

Burrata Classica 4/5

Next, the Burrata Classica ($26) shined with its creamy centre and fresh pairing of rucola, cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, and balsamic. Enhanced with olive oil caviar for a modern touch, this was simple yet elegantly executed, a reliable classic done right.

Guanciale Di Manzo 4.2/5

Don't skip the pasta here. The Guanciale Di Manzo ($30) features housemade fusilli bathed in a deeply savoury, 12-hour slow-cooked wagyu beef cheek ragù. Cooked al dente, the pasta clung perfectly to the robust sauce, giving each bite a rich, meaty depth.

Carbonara 4.8/5

A standout dish of the night, the Carbonara ($28) is a purist's dream, comprising housemade fettuccine tossed with 12-hour slow-cooked Iberico pork jowl, egg yolk, and Parmigiano. No cream, no shortcuts, just authenticity and balance. Easily one of the best carbonaras in town.

Provola E Pepe 4.2/5

As the pizza that won the 19th Pizza World Championship, the Provola E Pepe ($28) did not disappoint. Smoky provola cheese sits atop hand-crushed tomatoes, mixed pepper, roasted cherry tomatoes, EVOO, and basil. Bold and balanced, it's a smoky, savoury medley with a lightly tangy kick.

Tetti Illuminati 4.5/5

My personal favourite of the trio, the Tetti Illuminati ($28), is a textural and flavour bomb comprising mortadella IGP, fior di latte, crushed pistachios, pistachio cream, pecorino Romano flakes, and basil. It is a decadent yet harmonious combination, elevated by the pistachio's nuttiness.

Don Egidio 4/5

The Don Egidio ($28) stood out with its unique use of courgette cream as the base. Topped with zucchini chips, meatballs (a family recipe from Nonno Enzo), burrata heart, EVOO, and basil, this pizza offered contrasting textures, especially with the extra crunch from the zucchini chips.

Creme Brulee 3/5

The Crème Brûlée ($14) ended things on a quieter note. While the custard was smooth and creamy, the caramelised rapadura layer didn't quite offer the crackly finish one might expect. It's a serviceable dessert but not the highlight.

Tiramisu All'Amaretto 4/5

We much preferred the Tiramisù All'Amaretto ($17). Layered with mascarpone Lombardo, savoiardi biscuits, pistachios, and a generous splash of amaretto, it was light, creamy, and nuanced. It was a delightful finish to the meal.

Vincenzo Capuano's Singapore outpost lives up to its celebrated name, especially in the realm of authentic Neapolitan pizza and pasta that speak of slow-cooked care. With dough that's light as air and sauces that burst with flavour, it's a worthy pilgrimage for pizza purists and carb lovers alike. Come for the world-class pizza — stay for the carbonara.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Vincenzo Capuano
The Pier @ Robertson
80 Mohamed Sultan Road
Singapore 239013
Tel: +65 6485 9153
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk straight towards the river. Turn right at the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

The Masses @ Arcade The Capitol Kempinski - New Rustic Farm-style Communal Brunch with Franco-Asian Twist Every Sunday

Celebrate Sundays with loved ones over a new rustic farm-style communal brunch at The Masses, located in Capitol Singapore. Their Franco-Asian experience celebrates seasonal produce through a 10-dish sharing menu, priced at $68.80++ per adult and $38++ per child (6–10 years). Children 5 and below dine free with a complimentary main.

Sunday Communal Brunch 4.2/5

The brunch is available every Sunday, with two seatings at 11am and 4pm, and requires a minimum of two diners with full table participation.

Freshly Shucked Oysters

To elevate your brunch, top up for Freshly Shucked Oysters ($30++ for 6) from their mobile oyster cart, featuring Boutrais La Sentinelle from Ireland and Amelie Super Spéciale from France.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, add on free-flow prosecco at $48++, or opt for prosecco and wines on tap at $58++ per person.

Bread & Dips

The Bread & Dips was simple yet delicious, comprising sourdough, brioche, and baguette paired with strawberry jam, smashed avocado, and a standout umami butter rich with kombu. The butter was so addictive that I was tempted to take home a jar with me (they are available for sale). The smashed avocado, accompanied by a generous drizzle of olive oil, was perfect with the bread as well.

Salade

Next was a refreshing Salade of crunchy haricot vert beans, strawberries, brillat-savarin cheese, and hazelnuts, brightened with a tangy honey mustard dressing.

Cold Cuts

The Cold Cuts Platter featured an assortment of pork and chicken liver pâté, salmon rillettes, Parma ham, and hot-smoked mackerel, served with breadsticks, pickled mushrooms, pearl onions, cornichons, Pommery mustard, and cornichons. If the breadsticks are insufficient for you, you can request more bread to pair.

Caviar

The Caviar arrived next, accompanied by thin homemade potato chips paired with a sour cream dip featuring egg, chives, and caviar. It was lighter than we expected, and we wished there was a touch bit more salt for better balance.

Tartare

For Tartare, we had slices of hay-smoked hamachi crudo paired with zesty grapefruit and orange. The balance of citrus and smokiness worked well.

Seasonal Roasted Mushrooms

We were excited to learn that the restaurant collaborates with local farmers every month to offer a curated selection of seasonal dishes. During our visit, we had Seasonal Roasted Mushrooms - incredibly fresh and lightly dressed, allowing the natural, earthy flavours to come through.

Egg

For the next Egg dish, diners will be presented with Scrambled Eggs topped with thinly shaved winter black truffle. It was a pity that this was a touch dry for us.

Signature Meat

We moved on to the Signature Meat: a Crispy Chicken Leg with tender meat finished with a luscious sauce suprême. This was one of our stars of the brunch.

Chef’s Special

The Chef's Special featured the Barramundi Ala Meuniere sat atop brown butter, with capers, herbs and citrus.

Before moving on to the final sweet, it's worth noting that second helpings of dishes are also available, specifically the Bread & Dips, Caviar, Tartare, and Signature Meat.

Dessert

Dessert paled slightly in comparison to the savouries even though it was served nicely warm, as their Blueberry Tart with Rhubarb Jam came with a softer crust than we’d prefer.

DPlease make reservations before heading down by calling 6518 4988 or visiting https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/themassescapitol.

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 Masses
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
13 Stamford Road
#01-84
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6518 4988
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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]