Yue (乐) @ Aloft Novena Singapore - Unlimited A La Carte Zi Char Buffet from $29.90++ with 1-for-1 Promotion

Yue at Aloft, nestled within Aloft Singapore Novena, launches what may be Singapore's most value-for-money a la carte zi char buffet, priced from just $29.90++ per person. And for a limited time, diners can enjoy an even sweeter deal with a 1-for-1 promotion (U.P. $59.80++/$71.80++ per pax, min. 2 to dine). The buffet features over 20 dishes showcasing Yue's signature modern Chinese cuisine with touches of local seafood flair. On top of that, each table receives two complimentary premium dishes: Crab with Creamy Milk and Salted Egg Lime Sauce and Kung Pao Duck Confit, making this deal even more irresistible.

Crab, Creamy Milk and Salted Egg Lime Sauce 3/5

While the Crab itself was fresh, sweet, and decently sized, the creamy salted egg lime sauce was overly zesty, throwing off the flavour balance. The sauce felt more citrus-forward than salted egg-rich, which may divide opinions.

Duck Confit, Kung Pao 3.8/5

The Kung Pao Duck Confit was a generous serving with two tender duck legs in a claypot. The meat was beautifully fork-tender, but the sauce lacked the bold, spicy, sweet punch typical of kung pao dishes. A little more heat and tang could have lifted it further.

Deep-Fried Mid-Joint Wings, Shrimp Paste 4/5

The Deep-Fried Mid-Joint Wings were a solid favourite. Deep-fried until crisp and marinated in shrimp paste, they were packed with umami and remained juicy inside. It is a classic zi char delight.

Crispy Baby Squid, Sweet Shrimp Paste and Ground Peanut 4/5

A clever, rojak-style take on Crispy Squid. These baby squid were deep-fried to a golden crunch, then tossed in a sweet shrimp paste and crushed peanuts. Addictive and well-executed. It is a standout dish.

Mapo Beancurd, Minced Pork 2.8/5

The Mapo Beancurd missed the mark. Using firm tofu instead of the usual silky type removed the velvety texture one expects from Mapo Tofu. Moreover, the sauce lacked the signature kick of doubanjiang and Sichuan peppercorns, making it flat and underwhelming.

Deep-fried Sea Bass Slices, Superior Soy Sauce 3.5/5

A simple and comforting dish, much like something you'd find in a home kitchen. The superior soy sauce played an essential role in adding depth and lifting the flavours of the tender Deep-fried Sea Bass Slices.

Cereal Prawns 4.2/5

This is a zi char staple that delivers on flavour. The Cereal Prawns are succulent and crispy, generously coated in buttery sweet cereal and fragrant curry leaves. They are comforting and well-balanced.

Sweet and Sour Pork, Popping Candy 4.2/5

The Sweet and Sour Pork was both playful and delicious. The succulent pork pieces were glazed in a tangy-sweet sauce, and the addition of popping candy gave it a whimsical, fizzy touch that added both texture and fun to the dish.

Spring Chicken, Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Tequila 3/5

Served sizzling, the Spring Chicken with Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Tequila was tender and well-flavoured. However, the dish lacked the aromatic complexity expected from the Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Tequila, making it feel more like a standard brown sauce braise.

Sliced Beef, Black Pepper Garlic Sauce 4.5/5

The Sliced Beef in Black Pepper Garlic Sauce was one of the stars of the night. The beef slices were juicy and tender, and the black pepper garlic sauce packed a sharp, pungent punch that paired exceptionally well with the meat.

Wanton Noodles Soup 2/5

The Wanton Noodles Soup is a letdown. While the noodles were decently springy, the soup lacked depth and body, resulting in a bland dish that felt more like an afterthought.

Yue's Signature 'LIMPEH' Bee Hoon 4.8/5

The must-order dish is Yue's Signature 'LIMPEH' Bee Hoon. A modern take on Chao Ta Bee Hoon, this version has a charred, crispy crust and deep wok hei. The soy sauce and lup cheong add an extra dimension of flavour, making it incredibly fragrant and satisfying. It is easily the best dish on the buffet.

Yue at Aloft impresses with a robust selection of zi char classics and playful modern twists. While a few dishes fell short of expectations, the value-for-money is undeniable, especially with the 1-for-1 promotion and free premium dishes. This buffet is worth every penny. It offers over 20 items, including crowd-pleasers like Cereal Prawns, LIMPEH Bee Hoon, and Sweet and Sour Pork with Popping Candy.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yue (乐)
Aloft Novena Singapore

Lobby Level
16 Ah Hood Road
Singapore 329982
Tel: +65 68086846
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Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus number 139 or 145. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Cygnet by Sean Connolly @ QT Singapore - $1 Oyster Promotion with The Purchase of Any Main Course

Tucked away in the heart of QT Singapore, Cygnet by Sean Connolly is a stylish and sophisticated dining spot that brings modern brasserie fare to the table with finesse. With its elegant yet welcoming space, Cygnet makes for a fantastic dinner destination - made even more enticing by its $1 oyster promotion, available from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, Monday to Saturday, with the purchase of any main course. There's no cap on how many you can order, so oyster lovers, rejoice.

Homemade Milk Loaf 4.5/5

We began our meal with the Homemade Milk Loaf ($6 for an extra portion), and it was hands down one of the best we've tried. Served warm and soft, with a delightfully fluffy interior, the bread was accompanied by butter and vegemite. While they usually serve it as a vegemite-butter blend, we were informed that an electrical issue during our visit meant they had to serve it separately. Nonetheless, it was a comforting and satisfying start to our meal.

Copenhagen Bla Sparkling Tea 3.8/5

For a non-alcoholic option, we were recommended the Copenhagen Blå Sparkling Tea ($18), which offers a refreshing, lightly floral profile. Reminiscent of champagne, it's a great alternative if you're avoiding alcohol but still want something elegant and complex.

Watermelon Salad 4/5

Raw Tuna Crudo 2.8/5

We sampled two cold starters: the Watermelon Salad ($24) and the Raw Tuna Crudo ($26). The former was bright and vibrant, featuring juicy watermelon chunks, feta, tomato, and a splash of Chardonnay vinegar. It was a refreshing and well-balanced starter.

Unfortunately, the Tuna Crudo didn't quite hit the mark. Despite being beautifully plated with thinly sliced tuna, pink pomelo, fennel pollen, and capers, the dish lacked seasoning and depth. The flavours felt muted and didn't quite come together.

Oysters 4/5

The Japanese Oysters were undeniably fresh and plump, served simply with lemon and a mignonette dressing. At just $1 each with any main order, this is one of the best oyster deals in town. And with no limit on the number you can order, it's a true treat for seafood lovers.

Rump Cap 4/5

Our main highlight was the Rump Cap ($48), featuring a 200g cut of F1 Picanha Wagyu from Australia. It was grilled to a beautiful medium doneness and paired with a rich red wine jus. It was flavourful, tender and satisfying.

Roasted Seabass Gnocchi 2.5/5

In contrast, the Roasted Seabass Gnocchi ($32) fell short of expectations. While the crispy skin on the seabass was well-executed, the overall dish was underwhelming. The ricotta gnocchi and fish lacked texture and seasoning, and the salsa verde topping didn't lift the flavours as hoped. It was the weakest dish of the night, though we've shared our feedback with the team and hope to see an improved version in the future.

Crème Caramel 4/5

We ended the meal on a sweet note with the Crème Caramel ($18). Silky and slightly dense, the pudding had a creamy richness with a subtle burnt caramel flavour. It wasn't overly sweet, and the Chantilly cream added a lovely lightness to the dish.

Chocolate Fondant 4/5

The Chocolate Fondant ($18) is a must for those who prefer bolder flavours. It features a gooey chocolate lava centre topped with Maraschino cherries and served with vanilla bean gelato. It is rich, indulgent, and not cloyingly sweet, just the way a good fondant should be.

Cygnet by Sean Connolly offers a promising dining experience with a few standout dishes and a stunning space that's perfect for a casual dinner or special night out. The $1 oyster deal is a major draw, and there's precise attention to quality ingredients throughout the menu. While not every dish wowed us, the highlights certainly warrant a revisit, and we look forward to seeing how the menu continues to evolve.

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


Cygnet by Sean Connolly
QT Singapore
35 Robinson Road
Singapore 068876
Tel: +65 6701 6833
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Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 630am - 1030am, 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat: 530pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit E. Turn left and walk down Marina View. Turn right onto Commerce Street. Walk down Commerce Street to the traffic junction Shenton Way and Tat Street. Cross the road and walk down Tat Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 6 . Cross the road and walk down Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinson Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Cross Street. Turn right onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinson Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

AMO @ Hong Kong Street - A Feast of Italian Delights in an All New Revamped Menu

Amò, named after the affectionate Italian term for "love," invites diners to rediscover the heart of Italian dining with its refreshed menu. The new offerings promise an unforgettable experience filled with flavour, warmth, and the true Italian spirit.

Artisanal Burrata Cheese with Datterini Tomatoes and Basil Pesto 4.2/5

We began our meal with the Artisanal Burrata Cheese with Datterini Tomatoes and Basil Pesto ($28). The soft, creamy burrata was complemented by the tomatoes' natural sweetness, while the basil pesto added an aromatic lift, bringing the dish together beautifully.

Roman Artichoke Fries with Paprika and Black Truffle Crema 4.2/5

For a crispy, addictive snack, the Roman Artichoke Fries with Paprika and Black Truffle Crema ($18) was a standout. Coated in a light batter, the artichokes had a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, reminiscent of potato wedges but with a richer, earthier flavour.

Wagyu Beef Carpaccio with Rucola, Parmigiano and Truffle Relish 4.2/5

The Wagyu Beef Carpaccio with Rucola, Parmigiano, and Truffle Relish ($26) delivered a melt-in-the-mouth experience. The peppery rucola, savoury Parmigiano, and fragrant truffle relish elevated the silky, tender beef, creating a vibrant and well-balanced dish.

Sourdough Bruschetta with Pizzutelli Tomatoes and Basil Pesto 4/5

Another delightful bite was the Sourdough Bruschetta with Pizzutelli Tomatoes and Basil Pesto ($20). The toasted sourdough provided the perfect base for the sweet Pizzutelli tomatoes and herbaceous basil pesto, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Homemade Spaghetti Chitarra with Seafood and Pomodoro 4.5/5

Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe with Pecorino Cheese and Black Pepper 4.2/5

For the pasta course, we tried the Homemade Spaghetti Chitarra with Seafood and Pomodoro ($35) and the Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe with Pecorino Cheese and Black Pepper ($26). The Spaghetti Chitarra stood out with its sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, perfectly paired with fresh seafood. Meanwhile, the Cacio e Pepe, a creamy and cheese-laden delight, catered to those who enjoy rich, indulgent flavours. However, it felt slightly plain without additional ingredients to enhance the dish.

Quattro Formaggi 4/5

The Quattro Formaggi ($28) was a must-try for cheese lovers. A decadent combination of Smoked Scamorza, Taleggio, Buffalo Mozzarella, and Provolone created a rich, umami-packed pizza with layers of distinct flavours melding together beautifully.

Grilled Wagyu Beef Hanging Tender Tagliata with Truffle Mash 4.2/5

The Grilled Wagyu Beef Hanging Tender Tagliata with Truffle Mash ($42) was grilled to perfection. It boasted a gorgeous charred exterior while remaining tender and full-bodied inside. The luxurious truffle mash added a smooth and creamy complement to the dish.

Grilled Iberico Pork Secreto with Sweet Onion Figgione 4.2/5

Another highlight was the Grilled Iberico Pork Secreto with Sweet Onion Figgione ($36). The succulent, well-marbled pork paired wonderfully with the sweet onion figgione, enhancing the meat's natural flavours with a delightful sweetness.

Roasted Seabass with Artichokes, Capers and Confit Tomatoes 4.5/5

The Roasted Seabass with Artichokes, Capers, and Confit Tomatoes ($42) was a beautifully executed dish for seafood lovers. The crispy skin, flaky flesh, and acidity from the confit tomatoes created a balanced and satisfying bite.

Panna Cotta with Blood Orange Caramel 4.2/5

To round off the meal, we indulged in the Panna Cotta with Blood Orange Caramel ($15). The wobbly, creamy panna cotta was perfectly matched with the rich blood orange caramel, delivering a satisfying balance of sweetness and acidity.

Amo Tiramisu 4.2/5

The Amò Tiramisu ($18) stayed true to tradition, offering a well-executed rendition of this classic Italian dessert. Each bite was light yet flavourful, ticking all the boxes for a great tiramisu.

Pistachio & White Chocolate Lave Cake with Amaretto Cream 3.8/5

The Pistachio & White Chocolate Lava Cake with Amaretto Cream ($16) was a luxurious treat. The nutty aroma of pistachio combined with the sweetness of white chocolate created a delightful harmony, while the Amaretto cream added a nutty, boozy finish to elevate the dish further.

Amò's revamped menu showcases a strong dedication to authentic Italian flavours with a modern touch. From the flavorful antipasti to the indulgent desserts, each dish reflects the warmth and passion of Italian dining. Whether you're a fan of rich cheeses, premium meats, or fresh seafood, there's something on the menu to satisfy every craving.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Amo
33 Hong Kong Street
Singapore 059672
Tel: +65 67237733
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clark Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road using the overhead bridge. Turn left and walk down New Bridge Road. Turn left onto Hong Kong Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Guerilla Coffee @ Kallang Riverside - Flagship Outlet With An All-Day Menu and An On-site Roastery

Guerilla Coffee, the homegrown speciality coffee concept, has unveiled its flagship outlet at Kallang Riverside, introducing an all-day dining menu. The space highlights the art of coffee, featuring globally sourced beans roasted in small batches onsite and a 'slow' coffee bar where curated filter brews are served. Beyond coffee, the outlet doubles as a hub for community engagement, hosting regular programs and events to enrich the coffee experience.

Guerilla Butterboard 4/5

Guerilla Seasonal Butterboard ($18) was an indulgent offering that showcased house-churned butter generously spread across a wooden board. It was accompanied by seasonal fruits, sourdough, and house-made coffee salt. So decadent was the butter that some diners couldn't resist scraping every bit off the board! However, for the amount of butter on the board, definitely more sides are needed.

Summer Chicken Salad 4.5/5

The Summer Chicken Salad ($18) was a refreshing and zesty dish. It combined a hearty amount of tender shredded chicken with crisp greens, juicy pomelo, and orange slices in a citrusy dressing.

Buttermilk Chicken Waffles with Espresso Maple 3.8/5

A cafe-essential dish but uniquely Guerilla's: Buttermilk Chicken Waffles and Espresso Maple ($20). The buttermilk-marinated chicken is coated in a cereal-style batter, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside. The accompanying house-made espresso maple syrup lent the dish a dark, complex note while tying it back to Guerilla's coffee expertise.

Tamarind Sea Bass 4/5

The Tamarind Sea Bass ($28) offers a locally sourced fillet. Both sides were well-seared and delighted with a tender and flaky texture. The accompanying tamarind broth was light yet flavourful, with herbaceous and tangy undertones from ginger flower and lime.

Grilled Pork Jowl 4.5/5

The Grilled Pork Jowl is a true crowd-pleaser. With an ideal fat-to-meat ratio, the pork was tender and flavourful with an enjoyable bite, elevated by a tangy Nam Jim Jaew sauce. The sauce cut through the richness of the meat, enhancing its flavours and making it even more appetising. For a more complete experience, house-made brioche is a highly recommended side. Its buttery sweetness provides a delightful contrast, complementing the pork's savoury notes and the sauce's acidity.

Guerilla G2 Tiramisu Deck 4/5

We tried 2 desserts: the Guerilla G2 Tiramisu Deck ($16) and the Walnut Dark Choc Banana Bread with Chantilly Cream ($12). The tiramisu was better executed, with bittersweet Savoiardi biscuits soaked in Guerilla No.2 espresso and Kahlua, achieving a perfectly balanced of sweetness. On the other hand, the banana bread fell short of expectations. Its cloying sweetness overpowered the chocolate and banana flavours, making it more reminiscent of a standard counter-style banana bread rather than an elevated dessert.

Walnut Dark Choc Banana Bread 2.5/5

Guerilla Coffee also avocates the 'slow coffee' movement, a philosophy that promotes mindfulness and a deliberate pace in both brewing and enjoying coffee. There is an on-site roastery to enable the team to source and roast small batches of premium coffee beans globally. In addition, you can even choose from a selection of beans to be roasted on the spot in just 15 minutes, allowing for a highly personalised experience. A 1-hour Auction Coffee Discovery Session ($148) is available for booking if you wish to take your experience up a notch.

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.


Guerilla Coffee
Kallang Riverside
51 Kampong Bugis
#01-03
Singapore 338986
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Nearest MRT: Lavender (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 10am - 5pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 5pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Lavender MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Crawford Street. Turn right onto Crawford Street and walk down Crawford Street. Cross the bridge at Kallang Riverside Park West across the canal. Turn left at Kampong Bugis. Walk down Kampong Bugis to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]