Showing posts with label Sashimi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sashimi. Show all posts

Friday, February 16, 2024

Kai Kai Sushi & Grill @ Wisma Atria - Newest Brainchild of Chef Yamashita Teppei Replaces Koh Grill & Sushi Bar, Offering Range of Japanese Fare

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Kai Kai Sushi & Grill now sits where Koh Grill & Sushi Bar used to be in Wisma Atria, bringing diners a comprehensive menu of Japanese dishes ranging from classic sashimi and sushi to yakitori and teppan.

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The new casual restaurant is helmed by Chef Yamashita Teppei, most known for its various Japanese F&B concepts on our island, such as Teppei Japanese Restaurant and Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (now known as Unagi Tei). Here at his newest brainchild, Chef hopes to bring affordable yet quality Japanese fare to diners.

We sampled several items, with some in bite-sized portions. The prices listed are for the full portions.

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Pitan Tofu 4/5

Pitan Tofu ($5) is always one of my must-orders when it's on the menu. Kai Kai's rendition is decent, with a slightly nutty sesame sauce base and a generous topping of chopped century egg and tobiko. I would have preferred a more robust century egg flavour in its sauce for that extra oomph.

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Kai Kai Hanabi Roll 4/5

You will find a selection of different sushi rolls on the menu, one being the Kai Kai Hanabi Roll ($18.80). I found the sauce slightly too sweet, but this one is for fans of salmon as they offer it 2-ways here - raw in the middle and lightly aburi-ed on top.

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Negitoro Sushi 3.8/5

The Negitoro Sushi ($6) roll had the classic combination of minced tuna and chopped spring onions in its centre, with crunchy tempura bits for extra texture. The tuna portion could be much better, for a better ratio to the tempura bits.

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Nama Kaki 4/5

Next was the Nama Kaki, which had a plump and fresh oyster drizzled with a mildly tangy ponzu vinegar sauce.

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3-Kind Sashimi Moriawase 4/5

We got to see Chef Yamashita Teppei do a bluefin tuna block-cutting demonstration, leading to our next dish, the 3-Kind Sashimi Moriawase ($15). We sampled slices of otoro, chutoro and maguro.

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While they weren’t the best quality of cuts, they were still thick and fresh.

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Buta Enoki Yakitori 3.5/5

The Buta Enoki Yakitori ($4) had enoki mushrooms wrapped with pork belly. While I enjoyed the grill on it, it was tougher and blander than I expected it to be. I prefer a stronger seasoning on this.

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Yaki Hotate 4/5

Served in its shell with a wedge of lemon, the Yaki Hotate ($12) carried a nice slight char. The plump scallop remained juicy despite the grill.

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Sukiyaki 3.5/5

While the pork slices were tender, we found the rest of the elements in the Sukiyaki ($16.80) more mediocre. The base could be a touch less salty as well.

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Kani Toro Donburi 4.2/5

From the selection of mains, I decided on the Kani Toro Donburi ($17). It was clearly created for crab lovers, with crab meat, crab leg and soft shell crab with toppings of ikura and tobiko. The original size and portion will also include an onsen egg! The crab meat used was fresh and sweet.

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Kai Kai Castle Bento 3.8/5

The Kai Kai Castle Bento ($18.90) was served in a multi-tiered bento box shaped like a Japanese castle. Each tier featured different items, namely tamago and unagi, assorted sashimi, and a bed of rice with chopped tuna belly, tempura bites, flying fish roe and ikura.

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Unfortunately, its taste paled compared to its look, with average cuts on the sashimi. I must say that it's still considerably decent for the variety at this price.

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.


Kai Kai Sushi & Grill
Food Republic Wisma Atria
#04-21
435 Orchard Road
Singapore 238877
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Akira Back @ JW Marriott Hotel South Beach - Indulge in “The Omakase Dinner Experience”, A Luxurious 5-course by Chef Akira Back and Chef Bill Hong

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Akira Back's "The Omakase Dinner Experience" is a new 5-course dinner you do not want to miss. Chef Akira Back with Chef de Cuisine Bill Hong has joined hands for this seasonal offering, which is available for dinner daily at $148 per pax. Diners can also opt for a specially curated sake and wine pairing at an additional $88 per pax.

The menu showcases seasonal specialities using quality produce, with each dish highlighting both chefs' expertise in modern Japanese cuisine with Korean accents.

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Treasure Box with Citrus Striped Jack Bite

We started with a special treat of the gorgeous Treasure Box with Citrus Striped Jack Bite. While this is not part of the 5-course Omakase, it was definitely an intriguing start to the dishes to come.

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Umami Hokkaido Uni 4.5/5

First on the omakase menu was the beautifully presented Umami Hokkaido Uni. The creamy and indulgent mouthfuls of uni were paired with goma miso and maitake, a combination I’ve not had before but became a fan of.

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New AB Sashimi 4.2/5

Right after, we were served the New AB Sashimi. This dish features fresh slices of kanpachi dressed in a zesty tomato citrus sauce, with karasumi, ankimo and pickled radish for additional crunch.

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Halibut 4.5/5

While I found the clam ang-sauce and apple purée a tad sweet for my liking, the Halibut itself was impressively buttery and tender. The sauces were also helpful to cut through the richness.

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Shiso Sorbet

For our palette cleanser, we had the refreshing and minty Shiso Sorbet.

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Sanchoku Ribeye

While I can’t take beef, my dining companions were raving about their Sanchoku Ribeye. It was served with cauliflower miso cream, burdock jam and myoga, a Japanese ginger.

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Pork Chop 4.8/5

In replacement of the ribeye, I had a generous serving of Pork Chop. I absolutely loved the grill on the pork, which gave a thin crispness to the exterior while the meat within remained juicy. It was one of the best pork chops I've had recently!

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Lobster Claypot Rice 4.8/5

The Lobster Claypot Rice can be opted for at an additional $65 top-up, and I would highly recommend it. With toppings of ikura and negi, this bowl of rice was light yet flavourful, allowing the sweetness of the tender lobster to come through.

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Lobster Claypot Rice

Alongside the rice, you will be served a comforting bowl of miso soup and intricate homemade banchan.

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AB Tuna Pizza 4.5/5

Before we dug into the final dessert course, we were treated to Chef Akira Back's signature dish, the AB Tuna Pizza. The crunchy crust was paper thin and laid with a blissful mix of herbs, fresh tuna and a drizzle of truffle oil.

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Matcha Tart with Hazelnut Chantilly and Barley Ice Cream 4.8/5

The Matcha Tart with Hazelnut Chantilly and Barley Ice Cream was a lovely end to the meal. I thoroughly enjoyed the well-balanced mix of hazelnut nuttiness, bittersweet matcha and crisp tart shell.

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.


Akira Back
JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach
30 Beach Road, Level B1M
Singapore 189763
Tel: +65 6818 1914
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Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade MRT (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm

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

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Tempura Udon by Mizuya @ Tanjong Pagar Road - Premium 7-Course Omakase at $88 Per Pax

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Tempura Udon by Mizuya at Orchid Hotel has recently launched a new menu featuring affordable 7-course omakases that offer its speciality tempura alongside good quality sashimi and other dishes.

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The omakase menu offers homemade seasonal plum wine as part of the menu. It is a nice touch to the overall experience.

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Hyoga fresh oyster 5/5

We had the pleasure of trying the Premium 7 Course ($88/pax), starting with a succulent Hyoga Fresh Oyster.

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Assorted Sashimi 5/5

We indulged in 5 pieces of Assorted Sashimi for the next course, including a luxurious thick cut of toro. It was a great mix of Toro, Scallop, Aka Ebi, Hirame, and Tai. They are served by the Mizuya Singapore team, known for its seafood freshness.

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Chawanmushi 4/5

Before the Tempura course, we had a satisfying Chawanmushi for its smooth and silky consistency.

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Assorted Tempura 4/5

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Salmon Tempura

We were surprised by the generous portion of the Assorted Tempura. On the platter were 2 large prawns, 1 salmon fillet, a slice of pumpkin and mushroom. The prawns were sweet and succulent, the same for the salmon fillet. The vegetables were delectable as well. The batter, however, was somewhat uneven. Some parts were less airy than the others.

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Mini Negitoro Ikura Uni Don 5/5

Capping the meal was a loaded Mini Don brimming with negitoro, ikura and uni. I enjoy the topping's varying textures and briny sweetness, especially the mouth-filling negitoro. The bowl of Miso soup complemented it well.

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Dessert was a scoop of Goma Ice Cream - Simple but satisfying after an indulgent meal. To enjoy the value-for-money omakase with quality and premium ingredients, you can make a reservation via Chope.

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.


Tempura Udon by Mizuya
Orchid Hotel
1 Tras Link
#01-14 Singapore 078867
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Sat: 1130am – 230pm, 6pm – 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT statin. Take Exit A. Walk straight to Orchid Hotel. Go around the building to the other side facing Tanjong Pagar Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, December 23, 2023

Maguro Samurai @ Robertson Quay - New Modern “Fish Market” Izakaya Specialising in Unique Tuna Parts, Overflowing Ikura Dons and More

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Maguro Samurai, a new addition to the Robertson Quay dining scene, brings a modern 'fish market-style' izakaya concept to Singapore. Associated with Kansushi, the restaurant takes pride in its range of authentic Japanese dishes, including items uncommonly found in Singapore.

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The interesting 'fish market' concept allows diners to first take their pick from a display of seafood imported from Japan and then decide on a preferred cooking method. Some of these include sashimi, grilled and sushi.

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For its interior, several samurai swords are on display, alongside an impressive collection of Japanese alcohols, most of which are available for order.

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Avocado Shiokobu Ae 4/5

Our first dish was the Avocado Shiokobu Ae ($9), which had cubes of creamy avocado tossed in salted kelp and topped with bonito. We enjoyed this lightly savoury starter but wished it came in a more significant portion for its price.

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Maguro Yukke 4.5/5

Next up, we had their Maguro Yukke ($38). Crack the silky raw egg yolk and mix it thoroughly to let the yolk coat each piece of tuna. The tuna chunks, marinated in a flavorful spicy sauce, matched harmoniously.

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Negitoro Bucket 3.8/5

The Negitoro Bucket ($28) comprises minced fatty tuna and is meant to be savoured as a spread on crunchy baguette slices. While the additional garlic butter on the baguette was clever, we found it quite average overall.

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Maguro Sashimi Mori 4.5/5

Tuna lovers should check out the Maguro Sashimi Mori ($52), which showcases four different tuna sashimi cuts. We had fresh and thick slices of Otoro (fatty tuna), Chutoro (medium fatty tuna), Maguro Zuniku (tuna head meat) and Akami (Bluefin tuna).

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Grilled Maguro Zuniku 4.5/5

After enjoying the sashimi version, we were excited to try the Grilled Maguro Zuniku ($38). The grilled tuna head meat carried a bit of a soft, fatty texture and was done tender and smoky.

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Grilled Maguro Hohoniku 4.5/5

Similarly, the Grilled Maguro Hohoniku ($16) was also grilled expertly, with the tuna cheek meat retaining its buttery and firm yet tender bite. The simple condiments of fresh wasabi, salt and garlic chips were more than sufficient.

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Ninniku Syoyu Engawa Don 4.2/5

We had two different dons, the first being the Ninniku Syoyu Engawa Don (Flounder fin garlic flavour rice bowl). It was quite a small bowl, but we were impressed by the buttery slices of melt-in-your-mouth Engawa.

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Ikura Kobore Don 4/5

The presentation of the Ikura Kobore Don ($39) was a whole visual treat. The chef first began a short performance on his drums while one of his servers generously topped on spoons of ikura synchronised to the rhythm of the beats. The don was finished with a shimmering spray of gold dust. While the plump ikura was briny and flavourful, this is definitely best as a sharing dish for 3 or more pax.

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Kakigori 3.8/5

Dessert was a traditional Japanese offering, a freshly made calamansi-flavoured Kakigori. The layers of shaved ice here are thicker with a soft texture. It was refreshing, albeit a bit sweet.

Overall, the dishes we sampled at Maguro Samurai were indeed of decent quality; however, the general pricing was also relatively high.

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.


Maguro Samurai
Village Residence Robertson Quay
#01-16
30 Robertson Quay
Singapore 238251
Tel: +65 6320 3637
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 4pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

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 to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

sen-ryo @ Suntec City - Popular Japanese Restaurant at Ion Orchard Opens 2nd Outlet Offering Exclusive Items

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sen-ryo has recently opened its second outlet in Suntec City. While the brand continues to deliver the brand's philosophy of 'affordable luxury' with a menu much similar to its outlet at Ion, you may look forward to outlet-exclusive platters, draft sake – a rare offering – as well as new set lunches from just $15.80.

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Appetiser Platter 4/5

We started our dinner with the outlet-exclusive sen-ryo Appetiser Platter ($26.80). Aesthetically pleasing with 4 seasonal creations. My favourite is the mouth-watering Wagyu Sando. The rich and savoury beef notes against the sweet buttery notes of the brioche are deeply satisfying. The Monaka-Negitoro with Bafun Uni sandwiched between 2 crisp wafers was also a delightful treat. Hyogo Oyster with Ikura will definitely excite oyster fans, but for the Spicy Tuna in Black Sesame Cone, I feel it can do more with more tuna for a better mouthfeel.

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Bamboo Shoots 4.5/5 (Tasing Portion)

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Tsubugai Wasabi 4/5 (Tasting Portion)

This new outlet is also specially designed to be a space for a great drinking experience, both in the interior and the menu, offering a lineup of new appetisers. Slow-cooked Bamboo Shoots ($19.80), simmered in shoyu and bonito, allowed me to enjoy the beauty of both its mildly sweet-earthy flavour and crunchy texture. Using Ice Plant, Tsubugai Wasabi ($16.80) plays on the crunch element as well, with the zest of Wasabi Root to bring a kick to its neutral flavours.

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Abalone Sashimi 5/5

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Ankimo Ponzu 5/5

Abalone Sashimi ($20.80) features green-lipped abalone aged for three days after steaming and marinated in shoyu. Every bite released its beautiful intricate flavours accentuated by the whole process. What intrigued me the most was the Ankimo Ponzu (monkfish liver) ($19.80). It's neither fishy nor liver-y, and I love its melt-in-your-mouth texture that spreads its deliciousness into my mouth.

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Signature Sushi Platter 4/5

The outlet-exclusive sen-ryo Signature Sushi Platter ($68) was a feast for my senses, with various crafted sushi on the platter. The huge and plump Hotate topped with Seaweed jam and shredded fried leek was one of the first that caught my eye, followed by the jumbo-sized Salmon and Anago sushi. Others include sweet Botan Ebi, melt-in-your-mouth Otoro, Uni, Ika, Negitoro, Akami, Ikura, and Madai (sea bream). Sen-ryo's signature Tamagoyaki provided a sweet note to this platter.

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Maguro Sashimi Trio Don 3/5

Tuna continues to the star offering in Sen-ryo. One of the popular items is the Maguro Sashimi Trio Don ($32), offering tuna sashimi with varying degrees of fattiness, paired with a fragrant bed of Koshihikari rice from Aomori Prefecture. Given the taste and the varieties offered, I enjoyed the Sushi Platter more.

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Kaki Soy Nabe 2.5/5

A new addition to the Mains is Kaki Soy Nabe ($38.80), which features fresh Hyogo oysters. While the oysters looked enticing, the soy broth disappoints with a thin consistency.

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Complementing the mains was a refreshing Kaisen Sashimi Salad ($17.80) that delivered a harmony of varying bites and textures lent by the Ice Plant and sashimi, with a welcoming touch of sweetness from the corn.

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Premium Sashimi Platter 4.5/5 (Tasting Portion)

The Premium Sashimi Platter ($26.20) offers a premium cut of sashimi, mainly the belly portion, such as Salmon Belly and Otoro.

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Peach Sorbet 3.8/5

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Watermelon Sorbet 3.8/5

Our desserts were so cute! We had Peach Sorbet, and Watermelon Sorbet contained within the fruit itself. They were on the sweeter side, but they paired well with the draft sake that we had. Rumiko Kinmoto Tokubetsu Junmaishu Kijioshu, being full-bodied and strong, was recommended for dessert pairing. This premium sake is outlet-exclusive as well.

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As mentioned, Sen-ryo at Suntec City amps up the dining experience with the inclusion of KEG Draft into its beverage offerings. You can choose from a menu of diverse and exquisite flavour profiles, which includes the SENSUKE KEGDRAFT Special Junmai, an elegant, unfiltered sake renowned for its melon and muscat aroma. Selections will change according to availability. You may approach the staff for personalised recommendations to accompany your meal.

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.


sen-ryo
Suntec City Mall
Tower 5
5 Temasek Boulevard
#01-434
Singapore 038985
Tel: +65 6957 7978
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

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