Showing posts with label Salmon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Salmon. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Wild Blaze @ Tras Street - Newly Launched $38++ Lunch Set At a Premium Dining Experience

Vintage Ribeye 2

Located along the bustling street of Tras Street, Wild Blaze is a premium steakhouse that has been quietly making waves since its opening nine months ago. This elegant establishment is helmed by Chef Nic Wong, who spent 12 years as the executive chef at Brasserie Gavroche before taking over the space. At Wild Blaze, the dining experience extends beyond perfectly cooked steaks – it's about craftsmanship, attention to detail, and an all-around elevated experience.

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The restaurant exudes sophistication, with plush interiors, warm lighting and exceptional service. Their newly launched $38++ lunch set offers incredible value despite the fine-dining ambience. With quality ingredients, hearty portions, and thoughtful presentation, it's a steal!

Foccacia

Foccacia Bread with Sundried Tomato Butter
Focaccia with Sundried Tomato Butter 4/5

Each set begins with a serving of their homemade Focaccia paired with Sun-Dried Tomato Butter — a combination so delicious that it's hard to stop at just one slice. The butter is rich, tangy, and aromatic, elevating the freshly baked bread effortlessly.

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Chef Nic presented us with four out of the five appetiser choices (the fifth being a Beetroot Salad with Goat Cheese). Here's what we tasted:

Clam Chowder 1
Clam Chowder 4.2/5

This comforting bowl of Clam Chowder was rich without being overly heavy. Brimming with ingredients, the soup was creamy, flavourful and satisfying.

Salmon Tartare 1
Salmon Tartare 4/5

A visual delight, the Salmon Tartare (+$4) was fresh and well-balanced, with crème fraîche, chives and cucumber pickles adding a nice zing. It paired beautifully with their house focaccia – we recommend saving a piece (or asking for more) to mop up the goodness.

Fried Calamari 1
Fried Calamari 3/5

While we appreciated the use of fresh squid, the Fried Calamari was slightly over-fried, resulting in a tougher texture. The seasoning was spot on, and the chorizo aioli added a nice kick, but the chewiness slightly overshadowed the dish.

Melon Ham 1
Melon Ham 3.8/5

A classic combination of sweet Melon and savoury Ham. While the flavours worked, the portion felt a bit lean – just three slices of ham to a generous heap of melon. Still, it was a refreshing start to the meal.

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We sampled three of the five main options. Grilled Miso Salmon and Beef Bourguignon Bone Marrow Pie were not featured.

Fettuccine Crab Pasta 1

Fettuccine Crab Pasta 4
Fettuccine Crab Pasta 4.2/5

The Fettuccine Crab Pasta was a delightful surprise. The tomato-based sauce, subtly spiced, reminded us of our local dish - chilli crab. Generous shreds of crab clung to every al dente strand of pasta, delivering a flavourful, comforting bite. It grew on us quickly – not a strand was left behind!

Vintage Ribeye 1
Vintage Ribeye 4.2/5

Another thing Chef Nic takes pride in, other than great cooking, is ageing meats. Their ageing room is visible to all guests, where premium cuts of meat undergo a meticulous transformation, enhancing their natural flavours and creating unparalleled depth. This process is overseen by Chef Nic Wong, who travelled to Italy to earn his certification from the prestigious Stagionello Academy. His mastery of ageing techniques elevates every steak to a true work of art.

For just $10 more, you can upgrade to their Vintage Ribeye – a must-try. The steak was beautifully seared, well-seasoned and cooked to our preferred medium doneness. It had a familiar depth of flavour reminiscent of Cantonese roast pork on our first bite, which was both surprising and enjoyable. Served with bearnaise sauce and the in-house fries, which were crisp and addictive – no frozen alternatives here! Tip: Request for the mini chopper instead of the regular steak knife for cute photos.

Duck Parmentier 1
Duck Parmentier 3.8/5

The Duck Parmentier felt like a French twist on shepherd's pie, featuring shredded duck beneath a layer of mashed potatoes. While flavourful and comforting, it leaned a bit heavy and dry after several bites. It works better as a sharing dish than being a main dish.

Apple Pie 1
Apple Pie 3.8/5

To end the meal, we tried both dessert options. Served with Madagascar vanilla ice cream, the Apple Pie featured apple slices that retained their crunch. Not too sweet and fragrant from real vanilla beans, it's a lovely ending for those who enjoy a fruity dessert.

Creme Brulee 1
Crème Brûlée 4.5/5

This is a clear winner in our books. Creamy, silky, and with just the right level of sweetness, the Crème Brûlée was rich and satisfying, with a perfectly torched caramel top. It was a standout finish to the meal.

Restaurant 2

Wild Blaze’s $38++ set lunch offers tremendous value for a premium dining experience. With its sophisticated setting, warm hospitality and Chef Nic’s thoughtful menu, it’s a treat for both steak lovers and those seeking quality European fare. There’s also a well-curated wine selection for those who wish to pair their meal with a glass (or two).

For private occasions, the restaurant features an intimate dining room that seats up to 12 guests. The minimum spend for lunch is $2,000, and for dinner, it is $4,000 — ideal for celebrations or corporate gatherings.

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


Wild Blaze
66 Tras Street
Singapore 079005
Tel: +65 9371 3900
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Fourgather Thai Casual Dining @ Suntec City Mall - An UnFourgather Thai Meal with Its Second Outlet

Yum Salmon 2

Following the success of their first outlet at Amoy Hotel, modern Thai restaurant Fourgather officially opened its doors at Suntec City in February 2025. This new 66-seater space introduces an exciting menu that masterfully blends traditional Thai flavours with contemporary Western influences. For the first time, Fourgather also launched a dedicated kid's menu, making it a welcoming dining destination for all ages.

Drinks 1
Thai Chrysanthemum, Lemongrass Drink and Thai Milk Tea

We kicked off our meal with three signature Thai beverages: Thai Chrysanthemum ($5.50), Lemongrass Drink ($4.50), and Thai Milk Tea ($4.50). Each drink was well-balanced in flavour, refreshingly aromatic and not overly sweet.

Watermelon Salad 1
Watermelon Salad V2 4.8/5

The Watermelon Salad V2 ($16.90) was a standout dish. Juicy watermelon slices were topped with a tangy Thai dressing, crisp dried fish and peanuts, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savoury, and mildly spicy flavours. The original version, served at their Amoy Street branch, featured cubed watermelon, but this updated rendition felt even more refined and beautifully presented.

Yum Salmon 1
Yum Salmon 3.8/5

The Yum Salmon ($26.90) is a popular Thai dish featuring raw salmon slices tossed in a special Thai sauce. While the flavours were fresh, the choice of salmon cut left something to be desired and we found ourselves wishing for a spicier kick.

Fourgather Pork Party Platter 2
Fourgather Pork Party Platter 4.2/5

The Fourgather Pork Party Platter ($35.90) is a must-try for pork lovers. It features a delightful mix of Thai-style Moo Ping, Crispy Pork Belly, Tender Pork Cutlet, and Grilled Pork Jowl. This platter is perfect for sharing (serving 2–3 people). Accompanied by sticky rice, fresh vegetables, and assorted condiments, every bite was flavourful and well-executed.

Prime Sirloin Steak with Sticky Rice and Papaya Salad 2

Prime Sirloin Steak with Sticky Rice and Papaya Salad 3
Prime Sirloin Steak with Sticky Rice and Papaya Salad 3.5/5

For a tableside Aburi show, order the Prime Sirloin Steak with Sticky Rice and Papaya Salad ($47.90). The top-grade sirloin is seared before being torched tableside. It comes with sticky rice, Thai papaya salad and a zesty Nam Jim Jiao sauce. We opted for the Thai style (instead of Plara) with an extra spice option, though the spice level was barely noticeable. You can also upgrade to a more marbled cut for an additional $4, which we did.

Tom Yum Mama Hotpot 1
Tom Yum Mama Hotpot 3.8/5

Perfect for sharing, the Tom Yum Mama Hotpot ($36.90) serves 3–4 people and is packed with seafood and tender pork simmered in a rich tom yum broth, topped with a soft-cooked egg. While the broth was aromatic, we found ourselves wishing for more spice and tang. Pro tip: Avoid letting the Mama noodles sit for too long, as they tend to get soggy.

Tom Yum Seafood Pasta 1

Tom Yum Seafood Pasta 2
Tom Yum Seafood Pasta 4/5

If you prefer a milder tom yum flavour, the Tom Yum Seafood Pasta ($26.90) is a fantastic option. This dish features a fragrant, creamy tom yum sauce tossed with seafood and topped with crispy lemongrass shreds. It is a well-executed fusion dish we truly enjoyed.

Kids Set B 1
Kids Set B

Fourgather's kid-friendly approach includes four different Kids Sets served in adorable car or airplane bowls. Prices start from $11.90, with customisable mains, sides, and drinks. We tried Set B, in which we opted for Thai Fried Rice with a sunny-side-up egg, cheese chicken balls, tater tots, and apple juice. There are four different Kids' Sets for your little ones while the adults indulge in spicier Thai flavours.

Restaurant

Fourgather's extensive menu caters to all palates, offering everything from classic Thai flavours to inventive fusion dishes. The modern yet cosy ambience, accentuated by neon signs and eclectic decor, makes it a great spot for a quick lunch, a casual dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends and family.

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


Fourgather Thai Casual Dining
Suntect City Tower 2
3 Temasek Boulevard
#01-505
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 8090 7480
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

LUCE @ InterContinental Singapore - Banquet of Hoshena Festive Edition

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This festive season, the Banquet of Hoshena promises a dining experience like no other, where every detail is carefully crafted to transport you to a magical realm. From the twinkling lights to the delightful seasonal flavours, this festive edition enhances the spirit of the season. Let the magic unfold as you indulge in a feast as captivating as the season itself.

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The 7-course festive menu is priced at $158++ per person and is available until 1 January 2025. This enchanting experience takes place in a cosy private room within LUCE, where you will be graciously hosted by the charming Queen and her magical mirror as they take you on a journey to a land far, far away. As you dine, expect the table to come alive with stunning animated displays, interactive tasks, mythical creatures and a sense of wonder that elevates every moment.

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Rosemary & Olive Tartlet 4/5

To begin our evening, we were presented with the Keys to A Parallel world, in the delicious form of a Rosemary & Olive Tartlet with caramelised fig, duck rillette and onion jam. This bite-sized creation was a perfect balance of flavours, as the buttery tart shell paired beautifully with the rich, savoury rillette, sweet figs, and tangy jam. A delectable start to our dinner.

Celeriac -2
Truffled Celeriac 4/5

The Truffled Celeriac comes with a touch of playful magic. It features a stick of Granny Smith apple suspended in a floating bowl at the centre of the table. Alongside it is a dish of tender celeriac shaved fresh truffles and Amalfi lemon gel, inviting diners to combine the elements for a refreshing bite to whet the palate.

Salmon tartare-1
Salmon Tartare 4.2/5

We enjoyed the Salmon Tartare, delicately balanced on a hot, crispy shiso leaf tempura that provided a satisfying crunch. It is an indulgent bite that offers a nice contrast in textures, with the richness of the salmon tartare offset by the crispness of the leaf.

Chestnut soup-3
Chestnut Soup 3.8/5

Next, we were served a hearty Chestnut Soup with crispy bacon bits, chickpeas, and garlic croutons. The velvety texture is comforting, with a subtle, earthy sweetness from the chestnuts. The chickpeas, bacon bits, and croutons also added a nice bite to the soup. However, I detected some citrusy notes that felt slightly out of place. The soup is served with bread and a nice, light seaweed butter.

Squid ink spaghetti-4
Pasta al Granchio 4.5/5

The Squid Ink Spaghetti is served with impressive flair, accompanied by a fiery red animation display that adds to the drama of the dish. It features generous chunks of blue crab meat, Calabria Nduja sausage, and a rich tomato ragout, creating a wonderful combination of flavours. The dish can be further spiced to your liking with three condiments — Sichuan pepper, Timut pepper, and chilli oil — allowing you to adjust the heat and elevate the experience to your preferred level of spice. A very enjoyable pasta dish that left us wanting more.

Drink-1

The dinner experience also includes a ‘potion-making’ session, where diners are invited to follow the Queen's instructions to craft their very own apple drink (non-alcoholic). It's a delightful and engaging way to add an extra layer of fun to the dining experience.

Chicken-2
Chicken Roulade 4/5

The main course was a lovely Chicken Roulade elegantly paired with chicory, mascarpone, braised red cabbage, cress salad, and a vibrant salsa verde. The roulade itself was tender and juicy, with the mascarpone adding a luscious creaminess to the dish. The slight bitterness of the chicory and the braised red cabbage provided some contrast. It is a tasty dish; however, this dish is overall on the rich side.

Cake-4
Dessert 3.8/5

Dessert arrives amidst a stunning animated display of colourful blooms, and the Guanaja 70% Chocolate Raspberry Gâteau is suitably pretty in pink. This creation features layers of rich cocoa sponge, decadent chocolate crunch, and a raspberry marmalade. A raspberry sorbet adds a refreshing, tangy contrast. Whilst it was fine for me, I can imagine that some diners will find this cake a tad too sweet for their liking.

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I was also fortunate to dine alongside two couples celebrating an anniversary and a birthday. The atmosphere was thus made even more lively with special animation effects, and the whole table joined in their celebration. Each couple was presented with a slice of cake to mark their special occasion.

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It was definitely a memorable night out, and I appreciated the thought and creativity behind each element of this immersive dining experience. The food is good, and the animations and theatrics added a unique touch to the dinner experience. The cosy, intimate atmosphere also makes this a great choice for those celebrating a special occasion, offering a perfect blend of warmth, magic, and indulgence.

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Menu suitable for Vegetarians ($158++) and Young Ones ($108++) are available. For reservations and enquiries, please contact the Dining Reservations Team at +65 6825 1008, or email InterContinental.Dining@ihg.com

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.


LUCE
InterContinental Singapore
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 68251008
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Website
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]

Sunday, December 15, 2024

Choupinette @ Bukit Timah - Cosy French Cafe Founded in 2002 Offers Festive 5-Course Meal at $68/pax

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Founded in 2002, Choupinette is a charming and quaint French cafe tucked along Bukit Timah, next to Coronation Plaza. Opened daily from 8am, it offers breakfast through dinner and a variety of pastries for takeaway.

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Choupinette is decked out in delightful Christmas decorations to celebrate the festive season and introduces a special Five-Course Meal ($68/pax), comprising an Aperitif, Soup, Main, Dessert, and Drink.

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Bread

Before starting the course, we began with warm, house-baked, light and crisp bread - a testament to the cafe's dedication to fresh, in-house baking.

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Cocktail Joyeuses Fêtes

The first course, a festive cocktail named Cocktail Joyeuses Fêtes, sets quite a celebratory tone.

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Crab Bisque 4.2/5

The Crab Bisque is a flavourful option for soups, balanced with bits of crab meat without being overpowering.

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Soupe à l'Oignon 4.2/5

The classic Soupe à l’Oignon satisfies with its soft caramelised onions and gooey melted Gruyère.

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Duck Breast Served with Raspberry Sauce 3.5/5

Next, we moved on to mains with the Duck Breast Served with Raspberry Sauce. Sliced thick, the duck was slightly chewy and leaned more gamey.

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Salmon en Papillote with Herb Sauce 3.8/5

Our other main, the Salmon en Papillote with Herb Sauce, while generous in portion, fell short due to its dry texture.

Other main options for the course include Boeuf Bourguignon and Vegetable Gratin with Ratatouille.

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French Apple Tart with Ice Cream 4.2/5

We went for the highly recommended French Apple Tart with Ice Cream for desserts. The warm, thin-crusted pastry carried slight sweetness from the apple slices, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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Chocolate Mousse 4/5

The indulgent Chocolate Mousse delivered in intensity in flavour, but my dining companion and I could have benefitted from a crunchier texture for balance. This would definitely be better for sharing as both texture and flavour could get too heavy for one.

Alternatively, the menu offers a classic Crème Brûlée as well.

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The meal ends on a comforting note with a choice of tea or coffee, including options like Earl Grey, Chamomile, and Moroccan Mint.

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.


Choupinette
607 Bukit Timah Road
Singapore 269708
Tel: +65 6466 0613
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Nearest MRT: Tan Kah Kee (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 8am - 4pm
Tue-Sat: 8am - 930pm
Sun: 8am - 430pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tan Kah Kee MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Bukit Timah Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]