Meh'r by Inderpal @ South Bridge Road - MasterChef Singapore 2023 Winner Inderpal Singh’s Playful Take on Southeast Asian Street Food

Tucked away behind a discreet back alley along South Bridge Road, Meh'r marks the exciting debut restaurant of MasterChef Singapore 2023 winner Inderpal Singh. As the country's first and only Indian MasterChef, Chef Inderpal brings his culinary flair to the forefront with bold, creative renditions of Southeast Asian street food. The restaurant's current spotlight is the limited-time KTM Express Menu, a culinary journey through Malaysia and Thailand, available from 1 April to 30 June 2025.

Pani Puri 3.8/5

We began the experience with a playful take on an amuse bouche – Pani Puri. Unlike the traditional savoury version, this one was filled with white dragon fruit, watermelon, and honeydew, with flavour contrasts brought in by basil, curry leaves, and banana yoghurt. One pop delivers a refreshing explosion of sweet and herbaceous notes – a surprising and lively start to the meal.

Bak Bak Wings II 4.2/5

The Bak Bak Wings II ($26) from the small plates menu stood out as a clever reinterpretation of Hainanese Chicken Rice. Deboned chicken mid-wings were stuffed with chicken rice, while lollipop drumlet was glazed with a sticky-sweet char siew sauce. The dish came complete with a side of banana chilli and chicken consommé for a full chicken rice experience. Surprisingly, if we hadn't known the chef's background, we might have guessed this was a dish from a Chinese kitchen – that's how refined the interpretation was.

Thosai Matti 4.2/5

The Thosai Matti ($28) took another familiar favourite — thosai — and gave it a bold, modern makeover. Beetroot-infused thosai was wrapped around a masala sardine pâté and topped with a charred French sardine. Traditional accompaniments like sambar, orange rind chutney, and coconut espuma tied the dish together, enhancing both flavour and nostalgia in every bite.

Scallop Ceviche 3.8/5

For something bright and refreshing, we had the Scallop Ceviche ($34), where the sweetness of fresh scallop was uplifted with a zesty cure of orange, lemon, and chilli padi. A tom kha reduction, Thai mango, basil, ikura, and beetroot further added layers of tang and umami.

Lamb Biryani 5/5

The showstopper of the night was undoubtedly the Lamb Biryani ($48). Served in a generous portion, the cranberry and pistachio-laced rice was light and aromatic, while the tandoori lamb rack was juicy, tender, and packed with spice. Paired with an eggplant pachidi and burnt cucumber raita, the dish delivered a robust symphony of flavours and textures. It's a dish you'll remember long after the last bite.

Roti Canai 4.5/5

We were wowed by the Roti Canai ($18) for dessert, which masterfully reimagined the beloved Malaysian staple into a sweet treat. The shredded roti was tossed in sweet rasam powder and curry caramel, topped with a plum brûlée, and served with a side of spicy tapioca chips. It was quirky, bold, and immensely satisfying.

Beyond the food, Meh'r also boasts a rooftop bar with stunning city skyline views. Whether you're dining in the main hall or enjoying drinks upstairs, the atmosphere feels equal parts sophisticated and relaxed – a fitting reflection of Chef Inderpal's culinary ethos.

Meh'r isn't just a restaurant; it's a love letter to street food, artfully reimagined through the lens of a MasterChef. If you're in the mood for bold flavours, inventive twists, and a dash of nostalgia, this is one culinary journey you won't want to miss.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Meh'r by Inderpal
42 South Bridge Road
#05-01
Singapore 058676
Tel: +65 8839 5637
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Nearest: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 11am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sun: 11am - 4pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road. Turn right and walk to Carpenter Street. Walk down Carpenter Street, Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Fragment Private Dining - Modern Asian Cuisine meets European Influences

Our latest home private dining adventure brought us to Fragment Private Dining, helmed by Pristina Mok and her husband. One of the newest entrants into the private dining scene, Pristina only began hosting guests in 2024. She offers an eight-course menu featuring modern Southeast Asian cuisine with European influences. Her experience working at Skirt and Magic Square shines through in the thoughtfully curated dishes, blending familiar Asian flavours with refined Western techniques.

Shima Aji, Brown Crab, Radish Cake 4.2/5

The meal started on a strong note with a trio of small bites: Shima Aji paired with Bonito and Gu Chye, Brown Crab with curry and passionfruit, and Radish Cake topped with spicy bacon and uni. Each bite packed a punch, showcasing a beautiful interplay of flavours and textures. The fusion of Asian ingredients with European techniques was impressive, setting the tone for what was to come.

Beetroot & Persimmon 4.2/5

This light yet refreshing starter featured Beetroot and Persimmon, complemented by peanut dukkah and achar sorbet. The achar sorbet was a particularly clever touch, adding a tangy brightness that elevated the dish beyond the ordinary.

Aburi Sawara 4.2/5

Next, we were served Aburi Sawara, a prized Spanish mackerel known for its delicate flavour and buttery texture. It was presented in a Tom Kha broth — a Thai-inspired coconut milk-based soup — and further enhanced by adding Amela tomato, lending a delightful balance of creaminess and acidity.

Scottish Hand Dived Scallop 4.5/5

One of the most memorable dishes of the night was the Scottish Hand-Dived Scallop. Encased in an Otah (fish paste) filling and finished with a crispy exterior, it was paired with a curry emulsion. This unexpected yet well-executed combination worked wonderfully, bringing together the best of texture and bold Southeast Asian flavours.

Braised Lamb 4.8/5

This dish was an absolute standout. The Braised Lamb was served in a piquant black pepper sauce made from a unique blend of three different types of peppers. The sauce was so good that it came with a side of fluffy naan, perfect for mopping up every last bit. The rich, aromatic flavours made this one of my favourite dishes of the night.

Quail & Claypot Rice 4/5

For the mains, we had the Quail & Claypot Rice. The quail was perfectly grilled and accompanied by sambal belachan, mixed mushrooms, and black truffle. While not pictured, the meal also came with a small serving of claypot rice, ensuring that diners looking for a heartier bite got their fill of comforting carbs.

Whiskey & Coffee Malai Gao 4.5/5

The dessert course was just as impressive as the savoury dishes. The Whiskey & Coffee Malai Gao featured malted barley cream, dark chocolate sorbet, and sesame brittle. The combination of earthy, bitter, and sweet flavours worked in perfect harmony for a delightful and indulgent finish.

Pistachio Nougat, Hawthorn Tea 4.2/5

As a final touch, our meal ended with homemade Pistachio Nougat, accompanied by a cup of Hawthorn Tea infused with black lime and Yakult foam. It was a light, refreshing way to cleanse the palate and conclude a truly memorable private dining experience.

Fragment Private Dining is an exciting new addition to Singapore's private dining scene, offering a modern Southeast Asian menu with European influences that showcases chef Pristina Mok's creativity and expertise. From the impeccable execution of dishes to the warm, intimate setting, the experience is one that both food enthusiasts and adventurous diners will appreciate. Would I return? Absolutely. The thoughtfully curated menu and innovative flavour combinations make it a standout in the home dining space, and I can't wait to see how Fragment Private Dining evolves in the future.


Fragrment Private Dining
Clementi
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

VUE @ OUE Bayfront- Showcases the Exquisite Flavours of SILERE New Zealand Alpine Merino Lamb in Its Spring Menu

This spring, VUE at OUE Bayfront presents an elevated spring menu featuring an exclusive selection of Silere Alpine Merino Lamb dishes. Raised free-range in the wild alpine meadows of New Zealand, these lambs graze on golden tussocks and wild mountain thyme, which naturally contribute to their distinctive flavour profile.

Silere NZ Alpine Merino Lamb Tartare 4/5

The cold appetiser of Silere NZ Alpine Merino Lamb Tartare truly showcased the exquisite meat. The tender texture of the lamb paired beautifully with oscietra caviar, pickled sakura leaves, and egg yolk gel, enhancing its richness and depth of flavour. A subtle gaminess lingered at the end of each bite, adding an intriguing nuance. A touch more acidity could have further elevated the tartare.

Zeeland Kingfish Confit 4.5/5

Another standout cold appetiser was the Zeeland Kingfish Confit, complemented by pickled kabu, grilled mussels, and smoked bonito vinegar. The dish delivered both richness in texture and layered umami flavours, balanced by just the right amount of acidity.

White Asparagus 4.2/5

For a vegetarian warm appetiser, the seasonal White Asparagus was well-executed, its grilled smokiness enhancing the asparagus's natural mildness. The lion's mane mushroom tempura added a satisfying crunch and a moreish quality to the dish. A drizzle of herb oil and sweet, piquant choron sauce tied the elements together harmoniously.

Scallop & Pearls 4.2/5

The seafood warm appetiser, Scallop & Pearls (+$18), was a showstopper. The scallops were succulent and perfectly seared, paired with buttery cauliflower purée and creamy oscietra caviar, delivering a silky, indulgent mouthfeel. A hint of mild curry cream and pickled onions added depth and a slight acidity to balance the richness.

Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto 4.2/5

For the risotto course, we sampled the Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto and Signature Uni Risotto (+$12), each offering a perfectly cooked rice texture. The Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto featured porcini and sautéed chestnut mushrooms enriched with Parmigiano and truffle for a deep, earthy flavour. While deliciously rich and umami-packed, it became slightly too salty towards the end.

Uni Risotto 4.5/5

The Uni Risotto had a unique briny and cheesy flavour profile, enhanced by the use of Japanese multi-grain rice, which added a nutty dimension that paired well with the creamy sea urchin.

Silere NZ Alpine Merino Lamb Rack 4/5

Under the Mains, the Silere NZ Alpine Merino Lamb Rack was presented as a Lamb Wellington, wrapped in flaky, golden pastry with tender, blushing-pink lamb at its core. While the lamb's flavour was relatively mild, the dish was elevated by a Pithivier chilli & cumin pesto and a tangy buttermilk sauce, which provided a bold, flavourful contrast.

Spanish Lubina 4.5/5

For the seafood main, the Spanish Lubina was well-cooked with a crisp, golden-brown skin. It was enhanced with Sardinian bottarga alongside tender braised leek and kale velouté, adding a depth of oceanic and herbaceous flavours.

Sobacha Dark Chocolate 4.8/5

For a decadent finish, the Sobacha Dark Chocolate stood out with its nutty blond buckwheat mousse, fermented soy caramel, and cereal milk ice cream — a sublime combination of textures and flavours. The prized Shizuoka Musk Melon (+$28) was a delightful choice for a lighter option. This air-flown melon was served with fresh berries and seasonal sorbet, allowing its natural sweetness and juiciness to shine.

Shizuoka Musk Melon 4.2/5

Available from 28 March 2025 to 23 June 2025, the Spring Menu features 3-course $128++ | 4-course $168++ | 5-course $198++ per guest

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.


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 1am
Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 2am
Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Kinki Restaurant + Bar @ Customs House - Celebrating 15 Years with a Throwback Menu

Kinki Restaurant + Bar marks 15 radical years in Singapore’s dining scene with its bold identity and innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. Known for reimagining Japanese comfort food into addictive new classics, Kinki continues to push boundaries while staying rooted in tradition.

This March, the restaurant brought back five of its well-loved creations as throwback à la carte dishes, offering diners a nostalgic yet exciting experience. I had the opportunity to sample three of these throwback dishes — Unagi Scallop Maki, Prawn & Spicy Tuna Maki, and Kinki Okonomiyaki—along with a few other menu highlights.

Unagi Scallop Maki 3.5/5

The Unagi Scallop Maki ($33) is a deep-fried maki roll featuring succulent unagi and scallops, complemented by house-made unagi sauce. Unlike traditional maki, this version has a tempura coating, giving it an additional crisp exterior. While the textures were enjoyable, the flavours could have been more pronounced to elevate the dish further.

Prawn & Spicy Tuna Maki 3.5/5

The Prawn & Spicy Tuna Maki ($28) offers a twist on the traditional spicy tuna roll by incorporating tempura prawn for a satisfying crunch. The spicy tuna mayo mixture adds a creamy element, but I wished for a more robust kick in the spice level to enhance the overall experience.

Kinki Okonomiyaki 3/5

Another throwback dish, the Kinki Okonomiyaki ($32), features classic okonomiyaki ingredients such as shredded cabbage, seafood, and streaky bacon. The dish is topped with bonito flakes and shredded nori but is served atop toasted bread, giving it a pizza-like presentation. Personally, I was not a fan of the bread base, which felt like a cost-cutting measure. I would have preferred a more traditional okonomiyaki with an abundance of shredded cabbage holding everything together.

Spicy Buffalo Katsu 1/5

We regretted ordering the Spicy Buffalo Katsu ($32). The katsu itself was very dry, and the spicy buffalo sauce was overwhelmingly spicy, making it difficult to appreciate the pork. Unfortunately, we were unable to finish this dish.

Buta Kakuni Claypot 4/5

Our favourite dish of the night was the Buta Kakuni Claypot ($35). This slow-cooked braised pork belly rice is served in a claypot with a perfectly poached egg. The pork belly was well-infused with the rich braised sauce, resulting in a melt-in-the-mouth texture. Every bite was packed with umami, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.

Matcha Lava Cake 2.5/5

To end the meal, we tried the Matcha Lava Cake ($15). While the matcha flavour was rich and distinct, the cake itself was denser than expected. Additionally, the pairing of matcha with goma (black sesame) ice cream felt mismatched, leaving us unconvinced by the flavour combination.

Kinki Restaurant + Bar continues to impress with its creative approach to Japanese cuisine, but this throwback menu had its highs and lows. While the Buta Kakuni Claypot stood out as a must-try, some dishes, like the Spicy Buffalo Katsu, missed the mark. Nonetheless, Kinki remains a vibrant spot for those looking to enjoy a fun and unconventional take on Japanese classics in a stylish setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kinki Restaurant + Bar
Customs House
70 Collyer Quay
#02-02
Singapore 049323
Tel: +65 83636697
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Go to 2nd floor, take the overhead bridge link across the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Min Jiang at Dempsey @ Dempsey Hill - Celebrates 6th Anniversary with a Six-Hands Collaboration

In celebration of its sixth anniversary, Min Jiang at Dempsey presents the 'Six-Hands Anniversary Showcase' from 7 to 12 April 2025. This exclusive collaboration brings together the exceptional artistry of three renowned chefs — Master Chef Goh Chee Kong, Chef Pung Lu Tin, and Chef Daniel Koh. Three specially curated set menus will be featured, culminating in a one-night-only 7-course dinner on 12 April.

Foie Gras Terrine Monaka 4/5

The 7-course dinner begins with an Amuse Bouche: Foie Gras Terrine Monaka by Chef Daniel. Drawing from his classical Western training, preparing this terrine involves a meticulous two-day process, including steaming, baking, and an ice bath. Encased between crisp monaka (Japanese-style wafer) and a delicate slice of orange, it offered a unique and delightful way to enjoy terrine — its luscious, buttery texture reminiscent of an ice cream filling or the indulgent richness of a cold butter slab. A subtle hint of brandy aroma also came through and intertwined beautifully with the bright citrus notes from the orange.

Min Jiang Appetiser Platter 3.8/5

Next was the Min Jiang Appetiser Platter, featuring Pan-Seared Hokkaido Scallop with Pineapple Lime Sauce by Chef Pung and Typhoon Shelter Crab Claws by Master Chef Goh. The premium Hokkaido scallop was perfectly seared, boasting a succulent interior and a beautifully caramelized exterior. Its flavours were elevated by the tangy, refreshing sauce and an unexpected depth of umami from a final touch of fermented shrimp paste. The crab claw was equally delightful — a harmonious blend of crispy garlic, dried chilli, curry leaves, and aromatic spices, with a subtle sweetness from honey used in the frying process.

Double-Boiled Morels, Agaricus Mushrooms, Abalone, and Dried Scallops 4.5/5

The soup course was wholesome and nourishing — Double-Boiled Morels, Agaricus Mushrooms, Abalone, and Dried Scallops in a Whole Mini Pumpkin by Chef Pung. The broth had a light yet slightly gelatinous consistency, offering a beautiful depth of savouriness and sweetness with comforting herbaceous notes coming through.

Yin Yang Fish Rolls 4/5

Next was Chef Daniel's Yin Yang Fish Rolls with Salmon, Sea Perch, and Tianjin Cabbage. Resembling delicate maki, the salmon and sea perch were wrapped in tender Tianjin cabbage, which offered a refreshing contrast to the richness of the oily fish. The savoury soy sauce blend elevated the dish beautifully, adding a perfect touch of umami. While the slice of truffle nestled between the fish layers was subtle and not particularly pronounced, the overall dish was well-executed and thoroughly enjoyable.

Baked Pork Rib with Hawthorn Sauce 5/5

Chef Pung's Baked Pork Rib with Hawthorn Sauce details the laborious preparation process involving overnight marination, deep frying, and steaming. The pork was tender with a slight chew. The hawthorn sauce glazing the meat, alongside diced seasonal fruits, provided a gentle acidity to cut through the richness of the meat.

Stewed Lobster in Superior Stock with Deep-Fried Glutinous Rice 5/5

The final main course was Chef Goh's highly anticipated Stewed Lobster in Superior Stock with Deep-Fried Glutinous Rice. The lobster was expertly stewed in a rich, flavorful broth, resulting in tender, succulent meat. Complementing it was a crisp, golden deep-fried glutinous rice ball, offering a delightful contrast with its crunchy exterior and satisfyingly chewy center. The luxurious broth tied both elements together beautifully, enhancing each bite with its depth of flavour.

Deep-Fried Yam Pastry with Custard and Pistachio Gelato 4/5

Dessert featured a warm and cold pairing of Deep-Fried Yam Pastry with Custard and Pistachio Gelato by Chef Goh. Cutting through the delicate, flaky yam puff revealed a luscious, savoury custard centre that oozed with each bite. The pistachio gelato was velvety and nutty, providing a lovely contrast in both temperature and texture. While the flavours were enjoyable, the overall sweetness of the dessert could have been toned down slightly for better balance.

The Set Menus 7 to 12 April 2025
5-course lunch menu for min. 2 persons at $126++ per person
6-course dinner menu for min. 2 persons at $146++ per person
7-course dinner menu for min. 2 persons at $186++ per person (available for one night only on 12 April)

Dine-in reservations may be made via phone: 6774 0122, email: mjdempsey@goodwoodparkhotel.com and https://www.tablecheck.com/en/goodwood-park-hotel-min-jiang-dempsey/reserve/.

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.


Min Jiang At Dempsey
7A & 7B Dempsey Road
Singapore 249684
Tel: +65 67740122
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to dempsey road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]