Beach Road Kitchen @ JW Marriott Singapore - The All New Chefs-On-Show Dining Sunday Champagne Brunch

Beach Road Kitchen at JW Marriott Singapore welcomes you back with their latest Sunday Champagne Brunch, featuring a new Chefs-On-Show dining format to elevate your dining experience. The roving live stations prepare food live by your table, including some tableside theatrics that one can look forward to.

Artisanal Cheese with Fig Jam and Crackers 4/5

Their Sunday Champagne Brunch costs $108 per adult, and with a $50 add-on, you are entitled to a free-flowing Moët & Chandon’s Grand Vintage 2012. With a glass of champagne in hand, the roving Gourmet Cheese Station entices me even more!

Chef's Salad 3/5

64-Degree Egg Benedict with Truffle 4/5

For a light start, we had some aesthetically pleasing Chef's Salad. Moving on to their 64-Degree Egg Benedict with Truffle, there is nothing not to love about it, especially given that the egg was exceptionally creamy.

Cold Seafood Platter 3.8/5

Before other hot dishes arrived, we were served a Cold Seafood Platter with poached prawns, Alaskan King Crabs, Poached Lobster.

Grilled Lobster with Herbs and Garlic 4/5

Iberico Pork 3.5/5

Seabass 4/5

From the Charcoal Grill, one of the highlights is definitely the sumptuous Grilled Lobster with Herbs and Garlic. Our Grilled Catch of the Day was Seabass, which was well done with crispy skin, and we enjoyed the Iberico Pork just as much.

Salt-baked Barramundi 4.5/5

One of the main tableside theatrics is this Salt-baked Barramundi that is flambeed right before us. Stuffed with aromatic ingredients such as kaffir lime leaves, the moist and tender flesh was perfumed with herbaceous notes.

Roasted Striploin 3/5

Slow Baked Salmon 4/5

From the Carving Table, the Slow Baked Salmon was one of my favourite dish of the day, and it outshone its counterpart Roasted Striploin with its crisp skin and tender flesh that was consistent on every order.

Chilli Crab with Mantou 3.5/5

Local delights are also the stars here, such as Chilli Crab with Mantou from the Wok Flambe station. The sauce was on the milder side, but it was quite balanced without being too sweet.

Lobster Laksa 4/5

I enjoyed the Lobster Laksa much more, not solely because of its luxe factor, but for its robust gravy which was light and flavourful at the same time.

Nasi Lemak Tart 4.5/5

For dessert, there is a range of sweets available in the menu. Still, I suggest leaving space for the roving dessert showcase which serves one of the most incredible desserts inspired by local dishes and flavours - Nasi Lemak Tart. It was sweet but not cloying, coconutty and spicy with the quintessential Nasi Lemak chilli layered in between. It was memorable.

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. 


Beach Road Kitchen
JW Marriott Singapore South Beach
30 Beach Road
Singapore 189763
Tel: +6568181913
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch (Sat): 12pm - 2pm
Brunch (Sun): 12pm - 3pm
Dinner (Fri - Sun): 6pm - 9pm

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

Fleur De Sel Le Restaurant @ Tras Street - Bringing Fine French Cuisine To The Comfort Of Your Home

Fleur De Sel Le Restaurant is a French restaurant located at the heart of Singapore's Central Business District along Tras Street. I am actually quite surprise the restaurant has been under my radar all these years. If it is a new restaurant I could have understand but it has been around since 2013. If not for the pandemic with the restaurant joining the food delivery bandwagon, I probably would not have known the restaurant opened by Chef/Owner Alexandre Lozachemeur.

Lobster Bisque

Beef Cheek Bourguignon

Who says you can't have fine French cuisine at the comfort of your home? Starting with some soups, we have the Lobster Bisque and Beef Cheek Bourguignon. We also got some bread to go along with the soups. The soups were legit, packed with depth and flavours. 

Crab & Prawn Citrus Salad 

Light and yet refreshing is the Crab & Prawn Citrus Salad, paired with avocado and coriander vinaigrette. 

Chicken Thigh Basquaise with Tomato & Stewed  Capsicums

Moving to the mains, we have a whole Chicken Thigh Basquaise with Tomato & Stewed Capsicums, that has been cooked to tender and soaking up the delicious sauce.

Seared Hokkaido Scallops

Another beautiful dish on the menu is the Seared Hokkaido Scallops paired with braised leek and 

black truffle chicken sauce. Besides the plump scallop, what delighted me is the braised leek that complemented the dish excellently.

Beef Tongue with Tomato Sauce, Gherkins and Potato

Beef Tongue maybe acquire for some but as long as you can overcome psychological block, you will appreciate the fork tender piece of meat cooked in tomato sauce. I like the addition of gherkins which help to freshen up the palate from the richness. 

Seabass in Papillote with Zucchini, Tomato, Lemon and Thyme

For the Seabass in Papillote, you just need to heat up and you are ready to dine. The seabass was really moist, complemented by zucchini, tomato, lemon and thyme, elevating the whole taste as well as presentation.

Tiramisu

For dessert, I have the Tiramisu. I like the way it is done, light and not overly sweeten with the distinct espresso coming through from each mouthful. 

Lemon and Meringue Tart

If you like something sweet and sour, you will definitely enjoy the Lemon and Meringue Tart. It is definitely one of the best I have eaten for a long time.

Breakfast Basket

Not to be missed is the Breakfast Basket from Fleur De Sel with their freshly bakes. The breakfast basket consists of 2 croissants, 2 Almond Croissants, 2 Pain Au Chocolat, 2 Pain Au Raisin with 3 mini jams and butter.

Fleur De Sel Le Restaurant 

64 Tras Street

Singapore 079003

Tel: +65 62226861

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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:

Mon-Fri: 12pm - 2pm, 630pm - 10pm

Sat: 630pm - 10pm

(Closed on Sun)

Direction:

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

So France @ Duo Galleria - Experience The Taste of True Bistro Of Living

So France at Duo Galleria unveils a new look, introducing all-new menus, crafted to deliver an authentic contemporary French bistro experience. Classic, yet vibrant and modern, from the existing space that houses both a bistro and an epicurean grocer, So France now extends with a new alfresco terrasse for nights of drinks, tapas and sharing platters.

Salade Landaise 4.5/5

The new menu at So France embodies their philosophy of "innovative tradition", fusing classic French flavours into the current palate. And what caught my attention was the section on the menu that is devoted to duck. Starting with a salad that is native to the coastal Landes region of France, the Salade Landaise ($24) was hearty with cured duck gizzards (confit in duck fat and roasted to order) and cured duck breast. With crispy croutons tossed in, this salad was all about luscious mouthfill, meaty texture and crunch. The magic touch to this salad was the shaved foie gras terrine, that buttered every mouthful, but just very lightly, as they melt in my mouth. The ingredients sounded rather rich, but nothing was assertive, especially when the greens were simply dressed with Balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Duck Rillette 4.5/5

Also available in their Tapas menu, Duck Rillettes ($15) is a must-order if you are in a group, especially when you are in the mood for a long night. What a pleasure to see and enjoy the rillettes with an entire bottle of cornichons! The duck leg meat is marinated with orange skin, star anise and thyme for 4 hours, rinsed and sous vide for 18 hours, then rested for about 26 hours. Shredded and not pulverised, a right amount of cold duck fat binds the shredded meats together, creating a luxurious spread for the accompanying croutons. The seasoning is on the lighter side, so one could really appreciate the very clean flavours of the duck and its fats.

Duck Confit 4.2/5

Mash Potatoes 4.5/5

You may have come across many versions ever since you get acquainted with French cuisine, but do try their highly raved Duck Confit ($34). Glistening, evenly roasted with smooth-running edges, the duck skin was crisp, and the meat was tender with a good ratio of fats. I could do with a bit more sauce, which helped to bring out the flavours of the duck confit. Although roasted Grenaille potatoes are served alongside, what really completes the dish is their Puree / Mash Potatoes ($8). A full-on, creamy confection of butter, cream and potatoes, this mash potatoes of theirs will have you coming back for more.

Oeufs Meurette 4.5/5

Oeufs Meurette ($22) is your eggs and bacon dish but done in a traditional Burgundian way. What gives this unassuming dish its characters is the complex homemade red wine sauce made with beef and chicken stocks, veal jus, shallots, vinegar, red wine and butter. It flavoured the subtlety of the poached eggs while the more assertive flavours of the meaty, thick-cut bacon mellowed out its sweetness and acidity.

Sea Bass Filet 4/5

For lighter fare, on the menu, they have Filet de Bar / Sea Bass Filet ($28). I loved how crispy the skin was, juxtaposed with creamy broccoli puree and broccolini mash.

So France Beef Burger 3.5/5

Catering to our undying love for burgers, there is So France Beef Burger ($24), with a patty made with a combination of brisket and chuck, layered with sundried tomatoes, raclette cheese, rocket and caramelised onion. Served medium rare, I reckon the patty needs more fats to up its beefy flavour. But overall, it was still quite a pleasure to bite into the fat burger, especially when the custom made sourdough bun was so light and chewy. You will appreciate the fries too, which is made with potatoes from France.

Creme Brulee 3.8/5

For desserts, the Creme Brulee ($12) was simple but comforting with it's warm, vanilla aroma and mellow sweetness.

Floating Island 3.8/5

The first time I tried a Floating Island was in Hungary at a sidewalk bistro, that was served in a cup. The Floating Island ($12) here is a much more elaborated version, and I do suggest you try this classic dessert, which is rather rare in Singapore.

Words and photos 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.


So France
Duo Galleria
7 Fraser Street
#01-51/56
Singapore 189356
Tel: +65 6909 6449
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am - 9pm
Sat: 9am - 9pm
Sun: 9am - 6pm

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

Zafferano @ Ocean Financial Centre - Elevating The Italian Dining Experience

It has been a year since I last visited Zafferano at Ocean Financial Centre. During the year, the restaurant has welcomed new Head Chef, Andrea De Paola. Previously from ilLido Group, Chef Andrea incorporates innovative flavours and modern techniques to time-honoured classics, bring finesse to the plate.

Our dinner started with some amuse-bouche. The delicate bite-size snacks gave me a glimpse of the chef's culinary philosophy, balancing complex flavours in an elegant touch.

Scampi 4.8/5

I was impressed with what Chef Andrea is bringing to Zafferano right from the start of the first dish, the Scampi ($32++). The plating is more elegant and refines now. The langoustine is simply char-grilled with extra virgin olive oil till medium rare, and given a coat of sesame. Complementing the natural sweetness of the crustacean's flesh is the white miso and mirin sauce. The result is a plate of complex flavours but coming harmoniously together.

Carciofo 3.8/5

Next, I tried the Carciofo ($28++). The artichoke is poached and grilled over almond wood. Hence the tender texture with a hint of smokiness. This is paired with Caciocavallo cheese foam that has a smoky flavour, with a smoked Yamanashi egg yolk in the middle. I am not a big fan of artichoke, but I love the caciocavallo cheese foam, and I think it can go well with a lot of ingredients too.

Spaghetti 4.2/5

The Spaghetti ($30++ starter/ $42++ main) is Chef Andrea's interpretation of traditional spaghetti with bottarga, replacing the cured fish roe with razor clams and Oscietra caviar. It is a unique combination that I have not tried before. What blew me away is the sauce that brings the whole dish together, for a slurping good time.

Branzino 4.5/5

The dishes so far showcase how Chef Andrea combines different flavours to elevate the main ingredient. On the contrary, the Branzino ($48++) is bare naked to highlight the freshness of the seabass sourced from an open farm in the Mediterranean Sea off the Sardinian coast. The seabass fillet is lightly seasoned with just salt, and extra virgin oil finished in the oven and brushed with tarragon salmoriglio before serving. It is paired with young zucchini, spring herbs salad and zucchini cream on the side. Nothing fancy, just straight forward appreciation of the beautiful seabass.

Manzo 4.5/5

Besides the a la carte menu, Chef Andrea has also put together a 4-course Chef menu ($118++) and 5-course Chef menu ($148++). From the chef menu, I had the beef striploin grilled in the charcoal oven, paired with blue foot mushrooms which is a classic Italian combination. The Sanchoku wagyu striploin was cooked beautifully, locking in all the lovely jus with crispy chars at the edge.

Cioccolato 4.5/5

Also, from the Chef menu, I had the Cioccolato to wrap up dinner. It is a vegan dessert that comprises variations of chocolate forms. You may think this is going to be a very rich and heavy dessert, but it turns out otherwise. It is light, well-balanced harmony of flavours and textures.

I am glad that I have the opportunity to try Chef Andrea's food. With the new chef on board, I feel that it has elevated the food at Zafferano a notch. If the kitchen team maintains its consistency, and the chef's culinary philosophy, the star may not be far away.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Zafferano
Ocean Financial Centre
Level 43
10 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049315
Tel: +65 65091488
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm
Brunch
Sat: 12pm - 3pm (last Sat of the month)
Dinner
Mon-Fri: 530pm till late
Sat: 630pm till late
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place. Take Exit C. Walk to Ocean Financial Centre which is on the left. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Jade @ The Fullerton Hotel - Skillful Culinary Creations To Usher In An Abundant And Charming Year Of The Rat

Usher in an abundant and charming Year of the Rat at Jade Restaurant at The Fullerton Hotel with exquisite dishes that honour tradition while embracing the contemporary. Chinese Executive Chef Leong has created an ensemble of prosperous feasts from 06 January to 08 February 2020, paying tribute to the first animal of the Chinese zodiac.

Gold Rush Salmon Yu Sheng

This year Chef Leong has come up with the Special Edition Gold Rush Salmon Yu Sheng ($388++). The yu sheng is arranged in a striking image of a rat treasuring a traditional gold coin, painstakingly crafted from white, green and pink radish strips. What surprises me is the cranberry cheese which complements the champagne jelly and the tangy-sweet honey pineapple dressing excellently. Three days advance order is required for this special edition gold rush salmon yu sheng.

Mini Pot of Abundance

Instead of a huge pot of pen cai, this is served in an individual pot covered in parchment paper to keep the essence locked it while cooking. In the Mini Pot of Abundance ($58++ per pax), diners will get to indulge in premium ingredients such as Braised Abalone, Fish Maw, Sea Cucumber, Chinese Cabbage, Flower Mushrooms, Roasted Garlic, Stewed Pork Trotter, Deep-fried Pork Ball and Yam.

Full of Luck Deep-fried Seabass

Art on the plate is the Full of Luck Deep-fried Seabass ($280++). The fish is sliced in crisscrossed section, then deep-fried in hot oil to an attractive golden crisp. Bring this dish together is the sweet peach sauce, which adds an auspicious touch that signifies longevity and good health. This needs to be pre-order a day in advance.

Wok-fried Boston Lobster with Leek and Preserved Meat

A delightful combination is the Wok-fried Boston Lobster with Leek and Preserved Meat ($88++ per 700g). Boston Lobster is usually served with noodles or eaten with baked cheese. Embracing the Lunar New Year celebration, Chef Leong has wok-fried the Boston lobster together with leek and preserved meat; traditional ingredients seen during Chinese New Year. By doing so, the preserved meat gives the succulent lobster meat an extra layer of aroma, elevating the enjoyment.

Hot Stone Silver Needles Noodles with Truffle Meat Sauce

The Hot Stone Silver Needles Noodles with Truffle Meat Sauce ($38++ per portion) is an elevated execution of the Zichar Claypot Mee Tai Mak dish. The deluxe version uses both fresh truffle and truffle oil together with a flavourful pork braise. You may wonder the choice of silver needles for the noodle? This is because the rice flour noodle is known colloquially as 'rat tails' from its look and shape.

Hot Sweet Soup with Snow Lotus, Honey Dates, Pear and Tang Yuan

Wrapping up the meal is the Hot Sweet Soup with Snow Lotus, Honey Dates, Pear and Tang Yuan ($18 per portion). This traditional hot dessert soup brings together nutrient and health rich ingredients, simmered together to soothe the stomach after a rich meal.

Returning every year in a different Zodiac animal shape, the housemade all-butter Pineapple Cookies are created by Chef Leong and a must for your home. $8++ for a pair (dine-in) and S$38+ for a box of nine (takeaway only)

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jade Restaurant (玉楼）
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
1 Fullerton Square
Singapore 049178
Tel: +65 68778188
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT Station. Take Exit H. Turn right and walk towards the river. At the river, turn right again and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]