Showing posts with label Seafood. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Seafood. Show all posts

Sunday, April 27, 2025

Hortus @ Gardens by The Bay Flower Dome - New Mediterranean Sharing Menu Comprising of 9 Dishes

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Nestled within the lush beauty of Gardens by the Bay's Flower Dome, Hortus offers diners a taste of the Mediterranean, surrounded by vibrant blooms and cool serenity. With its focus on fresh, vibrant sharing plates and rustic wood-grilled mains, Hortus presents an experience that goes beyond the food—especially with its newly launched Mediterranean Sharing Set Menu ($68++ per pax), which even includes complimentary Flower Dome admission and a buggy ride to and from the Main Entrance. A perfect little getaway without leaving Singapore!

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Hummus, Olive Oil and Paprika 4.8/5

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Muhammara, Roasted Bell Pepper and Walnut Dip 4.5/5

The meal kicks off with an array of five sharing starters. The Hummus with Olive Oil and Paprika was an instant hit — creamy, nutty, and elevated by the earthiness of paprika and a generous drizzle of olive oil. It is paired beautifully with the warm, fluffy housemade pita. Equally delightful was the Muhammara, a roasted bell pepper and walnut dip that was slightly smoky, nutty, and tangy — a deliciously vibrant alternative to the classic hummus.

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Fried School Prawns, Calamari, Whitebait with Lemon Aioli 4.5/5

Next up was the Fried Seafood Basket, featuring school prawns, calamari, and whitebait, all perfectly crispy and light, paired with a zesty lemon aioli. It was dangerously addictive, with each piece a burst of flavour and crunch.

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Yellowtail Kingfish Crudo 4.8/5

The Yellowtail Kingfish Crudo was a standout among the starters. Dressed with bergamot and green olives and scattered with pomegranate seeds, it was refreshingly bright, delicately sweet, and brimming with Mediterranean sunshine.

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Kingfish Collar with Cabbage and Fennel Salad and Nduja 4.2/5

Moving on to the mains, we tried the Kingfish Collar with Cabbage and Fennel Salad and Nduja. Grilled to crispy perfection on the outside while keeping the flesh moist and tender, the kingfish was livened up beautifully by a squeeze of lemon and the spicy kick from the nduja. The accompanying salad of cabbage and fennel provided a refreshing counterpoint.

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Beef and Lamb Adana Kebab with Sumac Onions 4.2/5

We also sampled the Beef and Lamb Adana Kebab with Sumac Onions. Typically, kebabs can veer on the dry side, but Hortus' version was juicy, aromatic, and full of flavour. The sweet and tangy sumac onions on top brought a much-appreciated brightness to the hearty meat skewer.

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Cracked Wheat Salad with Dill, Mint, and Pomegranate 4.2/5

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Rice Pilaf with Pistachio and Lemon 4.5/5

To complement the mains, we had the Cracked Wheat Salad and the Rice Pilaf with Pistachio and Lemon. Both were excellent — the cracked wheat salad was herby and fresh with pops of pomegranate, while the rice pilaf was light, fragrant, and enhanced by the nuttiness of pistachios and citrusy lemon.

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House churned Vanilla Gelato, Halva, Tahini 4.5/5

Desserts were a true surprise and delight. The House Churned Vanilla Gelato, paired with halva, tahini, pomegranate syrup, and mint, was a symphony of textures and flavours — sweet, nutty, creamy, and refreshing all at once.

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Rose and Cardamom Basbousa 4.5/5

The final treat, Rose and Cardamom Basbousa, sealed the meal on a high note. The moist semolina cake, topped with house churned pistachio gelato and cardamom cream, offered a beautiful blend of floral and nutty flavours that was both comforting and exotic.

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Hortus isn't just a restaurant — it's an experience. The combination of fresh Mediterranean flavours, an idyllic garden setting, and thoughtful touches like complimentary entry and transport make it a memorable destination dining spot. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a leisurely meal with a view, Hortus delivers in every way.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hortus
Flower Dome
Gardens by the Bay
18 Marina Garden Drive
#01-09
Singapore 018953
Tel: +65 6702 0158
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Nearest MRT: Bayfront MRT

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 330pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit B. Take the pathway to Bayfront Plaza Ticketing. Take for the shuttle bus to flower dome or walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Basilico @ Conrad Singapore Orchard - La Cucina Storica Featuring Traditional Recipes and Regional Specialties from Italy's Former Kingdoms

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Basilico at Conrad Singapore Orchard presents La Cucina Storica — an evolving buffet experience that pays tribute to the rich culinary roots of Italy's former kingdoms. Each edition of La Cucina Storica explores a different chapter of Italy's history, featuring traditional recipes and regional specialities. Available until 31 May 2025, the latest edition spotlights the Kingdom of Sardegna, showcasing the unique flavours of Sardegna, Liguria, Piemonte, and Val d'Aosta — regions once ruled by the House of Savoy. The buffet brings together a mouthwatering mix of classic dishes highlighting the kingdom's coastal bounty, countryside traditions, and diverse influences. Expect live stations, artisanal cheeses, and a curated selection of Italian wines and cocktails.

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Cheese Room

One of the key highlights is access to Basilico’s iconic Cheese Room, home to one of the most extensive cheese collections I’ve come across. Here, you’ll find a seasonal selection of over 40 artisanal Italian cheeses, complemented by truffle honey, nuts, assorted dried fruits, Mostarda Cremona (syrup-poached fruit), Pecorino Sardo, Robiola di Roccaverano, and a Mirto di Sardegna reduction.

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Uova alla Piemontese

Tucked away inside the Cheese Room is an easily missed gem — the Egg Station, offering Uova alla Piemontese. Think of it as a luxurious Italian-style shakshuka: eggs gently cooked in a bold, flavourful sauce made with roasted bell peppers, pancetta, and San Marzano tomatoes.

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Antipasti Station

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Fresh Cheese Selection

The Antipasti Station serves up an assortment of cold cuts including 24-month Parma ham, salame, pistachio mortadella, and Bresaola della Valle d'Aosta. A standout for me was the Fresh Cheese Selection, which featured an incredible range of burrata — from the classic to infused (truffle, pesto alla Genovese, Italian heirloom tomato) and smoked versions. There's also cow and buffalo mozzarella such as Ciambella and Bocconcini.

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Carving Station

The Carving Station is another crowd-pleaser, with a slow-roasted Porceddu (Sardinian-style suckling pig). Other roasts include grass-fed ribeye, grilled seabass, Australian lamb leg, and roasted chicken thighs.

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Pasta & Risotto Station

Over at the Pasta & Risotto Station, homestyle comfort dishes take the spotlight. I particularly enjoyed the hand-rolled Trofie Pasta with cod ragù, the rich and decadent Wagyu Beef Lasagna, and the Wild Mushroom Risotto, which was simple yet satisfying.

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Pizza section

The Pizza Section impressed as well, with dough that was exceptionally well done. The Black Truffle Focaccia was rich and indulgent with mascarpone, Robiola Tre Latti, and provolone cheese, while the Arbanella anchovies pizza delivered a rustic punch with anchovies, capers, chives, and Fior di Latte cheese.

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Cold Seafood Station

Seafood lovers will appreciate the Cold Seafood Station, which is well-stocked with live oysters, poached Boston lobster, tiger prawns, queen scallops, Taranto’s black mussels, and clams.

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Vermouth and Prosecco zabaione

To round off the meal, desserts include a delightful spread of cakes, tarts, gelato, and sorbetto. The mini rum baba was delicious. Don't miss the live Zabaione Station, where Vermouth and Prosecco zabaione are freshly whipped and served with fresh berries.

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The La Cucina Storica Weekend Brunch is available every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 3pm. It costs $128++ per adult and $64++ per child (6–12 years old). Free-flow beverage packages featuring Ferrari sparkling wine, Italian wines, and beers are available from $80++ per person.

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.


Basilico
Conrad Singapore Orchard
Level 2
1 Cuscaden Road
Singapore 249715
Tel: +65 67253232
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch:
Mon-Fri: 12 - 230pm
Brunch:
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 300pm
Dinner:
Daily: 630pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn right and walk down Cuscaden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Lime Restaurant @ PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering - Elevates Dinner Buffet with Seafood Symphony

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Lime Restaurant at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering has recently introduced a refreshed dinner menu. Seafood Symphony, available daily, features a lavish spread, including an enhanced three-tier fresh crustacean tower alongside new cooked seafood dishes.

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One of the key highlights is the three-tier crustacean tower. Initially a single tier, the spread has now been elevated to include Boston Lobster, Snow Crab, Chilean Scallops, Yabbies, Tiger Prawns, Black Mussels, White Clams, and Whelk.

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Indonesian-Style Curry Crab 4/5

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Pickering Slipper Lobster Laksa 4/5

The Asian Kitchen station continues to serve mouthwatering hot seafood dishes, showcasing bold flavours such as Indonesian-style Curry Crab and their signature Pickering Slipper Lobster Laksa. The laksa was robust, while I found the Slipper Lobster slightly overcooked.

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Buah Keluak Black Duck 4.5/5

Known for their Peranakan spread, Executive Chef Alvin Leong has introduced a new speciality — Buah Keluak Black Duck. Swapping its usual brown exterior for an enigmatic black coat, the duck took on a subtle nutty nuance while remaining just as tantalising and succulent. It was served with a piquant chilli and calamansi sauce alongside the classic plum sauce.

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Flower Clams in Collagen Broth 4.8/5

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Steamed Mussels in White Wine Broth 4/5

One of my favourites was the Flower Clams in Collagen Broth. The broth was utterly delicious — aromatic, slightly milky, sweet, and savoury. I even grabbed some buns from the Bread Station to soak up every last drop. Another delectable creation was the Steamed Mussels in White Wine Broth, made even more flavorful with herbs and stewed cherry tomatoes.

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Sous Vide Roast Angus Beef 4/5

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Crispy Roast Pork Porchetta 4.5/5

The Western station offers hearty options like Sous Vide Roast Angus Beef and Crispy Roast Pork Porchetta. The latter stood out as one of the better versions I've had, with a perfectly crisp crackling and an even balance of fat and meat beneath the crisped skin.

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Truffle Cream Parmesan Wheel Pasta 4/5

You'll also find comforting options such as Truffle Cream Parmesan Wheel Pasta.

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Trio of Chocolate Fountains

The magnificent Trio of Chocolate Fountains takes the Dessert Station up a notch. They feature flowing streams of Dark Chocolate, Matcha, and Raspberry — perfect for coating marshmallows, strawberries, grapes, biscotti, and more.

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.


Lime Restaurant
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering
3 Upper Pickering Street
Singapore 058289
Tel: +65 6809 8889
Facebook
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Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line), Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Breakfast (Daily): 7am - 1030am
Lunch Buffet (Mon-Fri): 12pm - 230pm
Lunch Buffet (Sat-Sun): 1130am - 230pm
Cheers O'Clocl (Sat-Sun): 3pm - 5pm
Dinner Buffet (Daily): 6pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to the junction of Upper Pickering Street and New Bridge Road. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to the junction of Upper Pickering Street and New Bridge Road. Cross the road. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

LUCE @ InterContinental Singapore - New Thematic Buffet with Vietnamese, Thai and Chinese Cuisine on Rotation with Authentic Italian Spread

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Since mid-February, LUCE's beloved buffet has introduced an exciting new twist: rotating Southeast Asian selections alongside its signature authentic Italian spread.

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Diners can indulge in Vietnamese, Thai, or Chinese cuisine on different days of the week. Enjoy 50% off every second diner on weekdays and 20% off on weekends throughout March to sweeten the deal. Pricing per adult varies by day and time:

Lunch
Monday to Friday: $59 ++
Saturday: $69++

Dinner
Monday to Thursday: $78++
Friday: $92++
Sunday: $88++

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Thematic Buffet 4/5

On Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays, diners are transported to Vietnam. Wednesdays and Saturdays feature bold Thai flavours, while Tuesdays and Fridays spotlight Chinese cuisine.

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Vietnamese

We visited on a Thursday and were treated to a Vietnamese spread, including Steamed Lemongrass Fish and Clams with Sweet Basil, Vietnamese Beef Stew with Root Vegetables, and Netted Prawn Spring Rolls.

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Pasta Truffle Alfredo in Parmesan Wheel

Moving on to LUCE's Italian staples, our favourite was the decadent and al dente Pasta Truffle Alfredo, freshly made in a parmesan wheel. It was so good we went back for seconds.

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Carving Station

At the Carving Station, highlights included the Coatata di Manzo (Angus roasted picanha with fingerling potato), Pancia di Maiale ai 3 Pepi (slow-roasted pork belly with three types of pepper), and La Salsiccia (juicy seared pork sausage).

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Italian Specialties

The hearty Italian Specialties had us spoiled for choice with Angus Beef Oxtail Stew, Oven-Roasted Salmon Fillet, Spezzato di Agnello, and more. More pasta options were available, too, including Pasta al Pesto and Truffle Cream Pasta.

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Pizzas

My dining partner and I both adored the freshly made Pizzas, which carried a chewy base and crisp crust.

During our visit, four flavours were available: La Panchetta e Patate (smoked scamorza, pancetta ham), Salsiccia e Gorgonzola (Italian pork sausage, gorgonzola cheese), Five Formaggi (acacia honey, a combination of cheese), and La Tartufata (black truffle paste, wild mushrooms, smoked scamorza). We highly recommend tucking into these while they are still hot.

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Seafood on Ice

Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss the Seafood on Ice station, featuring Japanese oysters, tiger prawns, scallops, mussels, sea whelks, clams, and baby lobsters, all frequently replenished throughout the night.

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Cheese Room

Make sure to visit the Cheese Room right next to the seafood. The room may seem small, but it offers a diverse selection of Salad Bars, Bread Baskets, Artisanal Cheeses, and Chilled Antipasti. A couple of interesting options included a Seared Tuna niçoise salad, Artisanal Farmer Pork Terrine, and Beef Carpaccio.

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Indian Kitchen

We were also pleasantly surprised by a small section of Indian Kitchen, which featured crunchy Papadum, Butter Chicken, Aloo Gobi, Madras Fish Curry, and Biryani Rice.

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Dessert

The Dessert section had quite a range, featuring Assorted Nyonya Kueh, Lemon Tarts, Rainbow Cakes and more. We sampled a few, which were average, with a mix of hits and misses.

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Fresh Fruit Selection

Last but not least, end on a refreshing note with the Fresh Fruit Selection.

Do make a reservation before heading down, via LUCE's hotline at 6825 1008.

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.


LUCE
InterContinental Singapore
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 6825 1008
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch: 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm 
Dinner: 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm 

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