Pacific Emporium @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Launches Festive Afternoon Tea For The Festive Season

Celebrate the festive season with Pacific Emporium’s Festive Afternoon Tea, a thoughtfully curated spread of savoury bites, festive sweets, Christmas-inspired scones, and a choice of mains. The experience is complemented with TWG tea or coffee, with the option to add on a glass of champagne to amp up the celebratory mood.

We started with a complimentary welcome drink, Cinnamon Spark, a sweet-citrusy blend of cinnamon-honey syrup, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic bitters, which nicely set the tone for the afternoon.

Turkey Slider

Each guest gets to choose one main. The Turkey Slider featured a juicy turkey patty tucked between buttery brioche, layered with sweet caramelised onions and cheese.

Sampler of Festive Sausages

The Sampler of Festive Sausages, which included a Basil Pesto Bratwurst and Garlic Butter Sausage, was well-seasoned and juicy.

Salmon & Cheese Roulade

Lobster Salad

The savoury bites include festive creations. The Salmon & Cheese Roulade was a classic pairing of smoked salmon and cream cheese, while the Lobster Salad, cleverly presented as a local-inspired kueh pie tee, proved a delightful surprise.

Apple & Walnut Savoury Tart

Other savouries included Prosciutto e Melone, offering a light and refreshing contrast, and the Apple & Walnut Savoury Tart, which delivered a buttery, nutty bite with a hint of freshness.

Grilled Chicken Choux Bun

Breaded Ham & Cheese Sandwich

The Grilled Chicken Choux Bun was sweet-savoury and filling, packed with a creamy yet chunky chicken filling. Breaded Ham & Cheese Sandwich was served hot and pleasantly different from the usual cold tea sandwiches.

Hazelnut Passion Fruit Log Cake

The sweet treats this season leaned towards citrusy notes. The Hazelnut Passion Fruit Log Cake was nutty and fragrant, made with buckwheat sponge and layered with tart passion fruit curd.

Earl Grey Lavender Log Cake

The iridescent Earl Grey Lavender Log Cake intrigued with its Earl Grey Tanariva mousse, though the crunchy dark chocolate tended to dominate the overall flavour.

Apricot Dianduja Tart

Raspberry Rosella Choux

My favourites were the Apricot Dianduja Tart and Raspberry Rosella Choux. The tart struck the right balance of sweetness, with distinct yet harmonious chocolate and apricot flavours. The choux, on the other hand, had a spot-on tartness that beautifully balanced the sweetness.

Lemon Hazelnut Madeleine

Scones

The Lemon Hazelnut Madeleine was buttery with a gentle citrus lift, while the scones were served with clotted cream, cherry jam, and chocolate hazelnut spread. They were decent, though not particularly memorable.

Overall, Pacific Emporium’s Festive Afternoon Tea is a well-rounded option for a relaxed, festive catch-up. In particular, the sweet options stood out for their well-balanced flavours and sweetness.

Festive Afternoon Tea
17 November – 31 December 2025
First Seating | 1:00pm – 3:00pm, Second Seating | 4:00pm – 6:00pm

Mondays to Fridays
$68++ per person
$88 ++ includes a glass of Taittinger Brut Réserve

Saturdays & Sundays, and 25 December 2025 (Buffet-style)
Adult: $78++
Child: $39++ (6 to 12 years old)

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.


Pacific Emporium
Pan Pacific Singapore
7 Raffles Boulevard
Level 1
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 68268240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
1st Seating: 1-3pm
2nd Seating: 4-6pm

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

L'Espresso @ Goodwood Park Hotel - ‘Pink For Good’ English Afternoon Tea Buffet

Commemorating a decade of partnership with the Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF) and in conjunction with its 125th anniversary, Goodwood Park Hotel presents 'Pink For Good', a special edition of its English Afternoon Tea Buffet at L'Espresso. Available from 1 October to 30 November 2025, this initiative underscores the hotel's enduring commitment to the cause in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The BCF plays a vital role in providing support and education for those affected by breast cancer, while championing regular Breast Self-Examinations (BSE) to encourage proactivity about one's health.

Paying homage to the pink ribbon, the universal symbol of breast cancer awareness, the buffet presents an exquisite array of savouries and sweets in delicate shades of pink, contrasted with bold black accents. Elements such as caviar, black truffle, and charcoal-infused breads and pastries lend visual drama and sophistication to the spread.

Greenland Shrimp with Raspberry & Mango Chutney

Turkey Ham with Cranberry Cheese & Black Olive Soil

Starting with dainty bites, open-faced sandwiches are reimagined as tart-like creations in elegant hues of pink, including Crabmeat Salad with Mentaiko Aioli & Black Sesame Seed, Turkey Ham with Cranberry Cheese & Black Olive Soil, and Greenland Shrimp with Raspberry & Mango Chutney.

A selection of Finger Sandwiches offers delectable combinations such as Organic Egg & Black Truffle Mayo, Corned Beef with Caramelised Onion, and Portobello Mushroom & Halloumi Cheese, layered between charcoal and beetroot bread.

Chilled Prawn & Mango Salad with Marie Rose Sauce

Chipotle Tuna Salad with English Cucumber, Caprese Salad with Pesto

Croissant Sandwiches, another staple, are creatively tinted in pink and black for a striking contrast. Variations include Chipotle Tuna Salad with English Cucumber, Caprese Salad with Pesto, and Chilled Prawn & Mango Salad with Marie Rose Sauce.

Salmon Gravlax Platter

The Salmon Gravlax Platter with condiments was one of my favourites, which is a perfect pairing to enjoy alongside the sandwiches and croissants.

Baked Mushroom Strudel drizzled with White Truffle Oil

Black Trumpet Mushroom–Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Hot highlights include comforting and indulgent offerings such as Pork Cottage Pie with Charcoal Mash, Baked Mushroom Strudel drizzled with White Truffle Oil, and Black Trumpet Mushroom–Crusted Beef Tenderloin.

Smoked Salmon Tartare with Crème Fraîche

Black Pink Cupcakes

Buffet specials continue the pink-and-black theme with refined creations, such as Smoked Salmon Tartare with Crème Fraîche topped with Black Caviar elegantly presented in pink cones, alongside Mini Wagyu Beef Charcoal Sliders and Black Pink Cupcakes.

Desserts

Desserts are thoughtfully curated — Black & Pink Macarons, Pink Guava Opera, Raspberry Mille Feuille, Strawberry Éclairs, and more. And of course, no visit would be complete without the Signature Scones Bar, dedicated entirely to scones in an assortment of flavours.

For every paying adult who dines on the 'Pink For Good' English Afternoon Tea Buffet in October and November 2025, the hotel will donate $2 nett to BCF. This contribution will help fund programmes and services for the breast cancer community and support advocacy campaigns that save lives through early detection.

Dine-in reservations can be made via www.goodwoodparkhotel.com/dining/l-espresso or call +65 6730 1743.

'PINK FOR GOOD' ENGLISH AFTERNOON TEA BUFFET
1 October to 30 November 2005
L'Espressossoo $68++ per adult | $46++ per child
Mondays to Thursdays: 2pm to 5.30pm
Fridays to Sundays & Public Holidays: 12pm to 2.30pm | 3pm to 5.30pm

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.


L'Espresso
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301746
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 2pm - 5:30pm
Fri-Sun & PH: 12pm - 2:30pm, 3pm - 5:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes.[Map]

IL Giardino @ The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens) - Italian Cicchetti Dining with Asian Twists

il Giardino is the newest addition to The Garage at Level 2 of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, introducing an Italian dining concept served cicchetti-style, perfect for sharing among groups. Opening in time to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Gardens' UNESCO World Heritage status this month, the restaurant offers a lush, garden-side setting with Italian creations elevated by fragrant local herbs and subtle Asian touches. It's an inviting spot for couples, families, and friends to gather over good food and conversation.

Beer Bread 'Gnoco Fritto' with Ginger Flower Salsa Verde 4/5

We began with the Beer Bread ‘Gnoco Fritto’, served warm with a ginger flower salsa verde. The bread had a pleasant chew, reminiscent of our local ‘butterfly’ snack, with an airy pocket inside. The salsa verde added brightness and a subtle floral lift.

Artigiana Burratina 4.2/5

The Artigiana Burratina ($19) was luxuriously soft and creamy, paired with sour plum tomatoes, carrot purée, and trapanese & mint pesto for a vibrant punch of flavour. Almond nuts added a nutty crunch to contrast the creaminess.

Panzanella 'Singapura' 3.5/5

Panzanella 'Singapura' ($16) reimagines the rustic Italian dish with local twists comprising green mango, croutons, cashew nuts, and "ugly" heirloom tomatoes that might otherwise be discarded. The smoked tamarind vinaigrette tied it together with bright, tropical acidity.

il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes 4.2/5

These il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes ($16) delivered a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. Scallion and kelp lent an aromatic lift, while the roasted garlic aioli dip added a creamy, savoury depth.

il Giardino Slow Cooked Venetian Octopus 4.2/5

Seafood lovers can savour il Giardino's signature Slow-Cooked Venetian Octopus ($22 S / $32 L), tender and delicately infused with fresh lemon and Laudemio extra virgin olive oil (a premium blend from 21 historic estates in Tuscany). The dish is further elevated with housemade gremolata and ginger flower salsa verde, served alongside warm house bread. Adding to its charm, the octopus is plated tableside from a large pot, exuding a rustic elegance.

Spaghetti alle Vongole 4.2/5

Cooked to an al dente bite, the Spaghetti alle Vongole ($19 S / $28 L) was perfumed with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley. Herb crumbs on top added extra texture and savouriness.

Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli 4/5

The Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli ($16 S / $24 L) was rich with a five-cheese sauce, enhanced by fried sage and hazelnut for fragrance and crunch. The pear compote offered a refreshing contrast to the cheese’s richness.

Parma Pizza 3.8/5

From the Ciabatta Romana Pizza selection, the Parma Ham ($19 S/ $28 L) version came topped with parma ham, mushrooms, arugula, honey, and truffle cream. It offered a lively mix of sweet, savoury, and earthy flavours on a satisfying dough base.

Pan Roasted King Salmon 3.8/5

The Pan Roasted King Salmon ($28) was crowned with a crisp parsley and pine nut crust. The ginger flower salsa verde and Chef Felix's eggplant caponata, which was tangy and flavour-packed, made for a bright pairing.

Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken 3/5

The Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken ($18 half / $28 whole) was moist and succulent from brining and roasting, finished with a light Amalfi lemon caper sauce. A deeper char or punchier seasoning could elevate it further.

Slow Braised Osso Bucco 4/5

The Slow-Braised Osso Bucco ($28 S / $38 L) presents fork-tender veal bathed in a luxurious Barolo wine jus, paired with silky whipped potatoes and brightened by a zesty kaffir lime gremolata. This refreshing Asian twist cuts through the richness. Of the three mains, this was easily my favourite.

il Giardino Affogato 3.8/5

A decadent finale, the il Giardino Affogato ($14) featured gelato on a crunchy buttered base of almond and upcycled ground coffee. A hot espresso pour melted the Valrhona chocolate shell, revealing berries and mint — aromatic, dramatic, and delicious.

Crispy, Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' 3/5

Choose from vanilla, hazelnut, honey ginger, or blood orange sorbet/gelato with these airy, crispy Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' ($16). Dusted generously with powdered sugar, they were light and sweet, though more memorable for texture than flavour.

With its cicchetti-style Italian menu infused with local and Asian touches, il Giardino makes for a charming dining experience in one of Singapore’s most scenic settings. While some dishes could use a little more punch, most plates hit a satisfying balance between creativity and comfort, making it a welcome addition to the Botanic Gardens dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


IL Giardino
The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens)
Level 2
50 Cluny Park Road
Singapore 257488
Tel: +65 9831 1106
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Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Botanic Gardens MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Cluny Park Road. Turn left onto Cluny Park Road and continue walking down the road. At Cluny Park Gate, walk in and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Ensō Steakhouse @ CapitaGreen - Neo-Japanese and American Steakhouse with Lunch Set Menu From $58++

Ensō Steakhouse, nestled within COTU, the region's first multi-concept dining and entertainment venue, is a Neo-Japanese and American Steakhouse that marries premium American cuts with modern Japanese grill expertise. All premium cuts are aged in-house. Their new lunch set menu is now even more comprehensive, starting from a 2-course set at $58++ and a 3-course set from $68++.

Wagyu Beef Koshihikari Rice 4.5/5

Whetting our appetite was a hearty first course of Wagyu Beef Koshihikari Rice. The braised wagyu and maitake mushrooms were deeply steeped in umami, served over plump, pearly Koshihikari rice that complemented their textures and flavours. A slow-cooked egg with a sticky, creamy yolk brought it all together beautifully. I would gladly have it as a main if offered in a full portion.

Hamacho Sashimi 3.5/5

Another first course, the Hamacho Sashimi, was a refreshing contrast. To complement the lighter profile of the sashimi, the dish was elevated with shredded myoga, shiso, and a fennel salad for a slightly spicy lift, as well as crispy potato. The latter adds both texture and an extra savoury dimension.

Angus Bavette 5/5

As for mains, for dishes included in the base price of the set, the Angus Bavette (220g) is the one to go for. This loosely textured, lean cut from the cow's abdominal muscles surprised me with its depth of flavour, especially paired with a well-balanced red wine sauce. My prior memories of flank steak leaned toward blandness, but this was the complete opposite – tender and juicy, tantalising with beefy character.

Grilled Salmon Salad 3/5

If you prefer something lighter, the Grilled Salmon Salad offers a seafood alternative. It's served with mixed greens, grilled avocado, and a bright, citrusy dressing, accompanied by crispy rice that lends a pleasant crunch. However, I found the salmon slightly 'stiff', lacking the succulence I hoped for.

Wagyu Fat Crispy Fries

Wagyu Beef Mac & Cheese

Sides were indulgent and worth the calories. The thick-cut Wagyu Fat Crispy Fries were fluffy on the inside, with a savoury, golden crust. The Wagyu Beef Mac & Cheese was comforting and rich, with al dente macaroni and juicy morsels of wagyu beef.

Fuji Apple Crumble 4.5/5

Desserts were decent overall. Fuji Apple Crumble was a joyful treat featuring chunky, tender apple slices tucked beneath buttery-sweet crumbles and served warm with a scoop of Madagascan vanilla ice cream.

Raspberry Almond Tart 3.5/5

The Raspberry Almond Tart had a lovely, well-baked crust, although I wished for a more generous amount of raspberries to bring out its fruity depth more effectively.

Indeed, Ensō Steakhouse knows its beef well. Beyond the Angus Bavette, the lunch set includes other premium steak cuts, making it a solid choice for steak lovers seeking quality and value.

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.


Ensō Steakhouse
COTU
CapitaGreen
Levels 38
138 Market Street
Singapore 048946
Tel: +65 64164800
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat: 530pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk down Cecil Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk down Cross Street (against the flow of traffic). Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]