Showing posts with label Siew Mai. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Siew Mai. Show all posts

Friday, October 25, 2024

Paradise Hotpot (品樂锅) @ Jurong East - Hong Kong-Style Hotpot Buffet by Paradise Group Opens New Outlet in Westgate, Prices Start From $19.90/Pax

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Paradise Group’s Paradise Hotpot has been popular for its hotpot buffet since its launch in Compass One at Sengkang, and now they’ve opened their second outlet in the heart of Jurong, on the third floor of Westgate.

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The buffet is priced affordably starting at $19.90/pax, with a dining limit of 80 minutes. The most value-for-money option is during their Tea Time, between 2.30pm and 4.30pm on Weekdays.

Diners can also opt for the Value or Premium Set, where the latter offers additional exclusive ingredients. The prices are as follows:

Value Set
Lunch (11.30am to 2.30pm): $23.90
Tea Time (2.31pm to 4.30pm): $19.90
Dinner (4.31pm to 10pm, last seating 8.30pm): $29.90

Premium Set
Lunch (11.30am to 2.30pm): $29.90
Tea Time (2.31pm to 4.30pm): $25.90
Dinner (4.31pm to 10pm, last seating 8.30pm): $37.90

Do note that there is an additional $3 surcharge per pax on Weekends and Public Holidays, while students and senior citizens (60 years and above) can enjoy a $3 discount per pax on Weekdays before 4.30pm, excluding Public Holidays.

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Paradise Hotpot Buffet 4.2/5

In addition to its regular offerings, Paradise Hotpot has introduced three brand new soup bases: Century Egg with Coriander Soup, Satay Soup, and Clear Chicken Soup, adding to their lineup of nine, all freshly brewed in-house daily.

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Both Value and Premium Sets include access to a whole range of unlimited snacks, cooked food, condiments, beverages and desserts.

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The buffet's cooked food selection is a highlight, featuring Hong Kong-style dishes like Cantonese Steamed Rice with Preserved Meat, Braised Mixed Beef Offal, Ee Fu Noodles, Glutinous Rice Siew Mai with Mushroom and Curry Fish Ball.

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There were a variety of snacks as well, including Fried Fish Beancurd Roll, Golden Crispy Prawn Cake, Crispy Pork Strips, Fried Chicken Wing and more.

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I was pleasantly surprised to see a bubbling pot of Tea Egg available too. These were thoroughly braised and flavourful.

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We liked how each diner has their own individual pot, as this means that everyone gets their preferred base. We were spoilt for choice among the broths and finally decided on the Authentic Pork Bone Soup Base and a vegetarian option, the Cordycep Flower with Mushroom Soup Base.

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The pork bone soup base was flavourful and comforting, while the mushroom base is a good choice if you are looking for something nourishing and light. Broth refills were also available at each table to conveniently top up through the meal.

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Most ingredients are available self-service, but diners can also order via QR code to have items delivered directly to their table.

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The Premium Set included exclusive ingredients such as Sliced US Short Plate, Fresh Scallop, Scallop Seafood Paste, and more.

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Our favourites from the Premium list of ingredients were the crunchy sweet Fresh White Sea Prawn, fresh Sliced Snakehead and tender Sliced Spanish Pork Collar.

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Fans of Beauty in the Pot will be thrilled to know that the refreshing Yuzu Slush is available here but free-flow, along with hot tea and soft drinks.

Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the quality and variety of food for the price. The only drawback was the 80-minute time limit, so it's best to order promptly and keep track of time to enjoy fully.

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.


Paradise Hotpot 品樂锅
Westgate, #03-10
3 Gateway Drive
Singapore 608532
Tel: +65 6805 8188
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East MRT (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11.30am to 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am to 10pm

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

Sunday, August 25, 2024

Ya Ge (雅阁) @ Orchid Hotel - A Refined Weekend Dim Sum Brunch with 47 Items to Choose From

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Ya Ge (雅阁) at Orchid Hotel Singapore has launched a refined new Weekend Dim Sum Brunch, offering an array of exquisite dim sum dishes, flavourful soups, hearty mains, and decadent desserts. Diners can select up to 15 dishes from the extensive menu, making it a perfect choice for those looking to indulge in a lavish and leisurely meal.

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Abalone Siew Mai 4.2/5

We started our brunch with a selection of new dim sum creations that truly elevated the dining experience. The Abalone Siew Mai is a luxurious take on the classic pork siew mai, topped with a whole abalone that adds a touch of elegance and richness to the dish.

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Steamed Mala Flavoured Pork Siew Mai topped with Baby Octopus 4/5

Another standout was the Steamed Mala Flavoured Pork Siew Mai topped with Baby Octopus. This dish combines the familiar flavours of siew mai with the bold, spicy kick of mala, topped with tender baby octopus. It's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dim sum.

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Deep-fried Red Garoupa Fillet and Mango Roll 4/5

The Deep-fried Red Garoupa Fillet and Mango Roll was a delightful surprise, featuring a crispy exterior that encased tender garoupa fillet and sweet mango, complemented by a tangy mango sauce.


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Pan-fried Tom Yum Mee Suan Kueh with Fresh Prawn 2.8/5

One of the most inventive dishes we tried was the Pan-fried Tom Yum Mee Sua Kueh with Fresh Prawn. The dish features a tom yum-flavoured prawn atop a crisp mee sua toast. However, it lacked the softer, more comforting texture of traditional fried mee sua kueh. It might not be everyone's cup of tea, especially if you're a fan of the Swee Choon's version.

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Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Matsuke Mushroom, Dendrobium Steam and Conpoy 4/5

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Braised Lobster Broth with Fresh Crab Meat and Crab Roe 4.2/5

For the soup options, we sampled the Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Matsuke Mushroom, Dendrobium Stem and Conpoy, as well as the Braised Lobster Broth with Fresh Crab Meat and Crab Roe. Both soups were rich and deeply flavorful, with the lobster broth standing out for its luxurious and briny taste.

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Traditional Xiao Long Bao 3.5/5

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Barbeque Pork Rice Roll 3.5/5

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Pan-fried Chinese Sausage Carrot Cake 2.8/5

We also indulged in some of Ya Ge's more classic dim sum offerings, including the Traditional Xiao Long Bao, Barbeque Pork Rice Roll, and Pan-fried Chinese Sausage Carrot Cake. These classic dishes were executed to perfection, each bite bursting with familiar and comforting flavours.

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Salted Egg Yolk Custard Lava Bun 4.5/5

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Crispy Mini Pumpkin Pastry with Minced Chicken, Mushroom and Thyme 4.5/5

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Crispy Ugly Duckling with Chicken, Yam and Mushroom 4.2/5

A few dishes stood out as personal favourites among the dim sum selections. The Salted Egg Yolk Custard Lava Bun is a must-try, with its soft, fluffy dough infused with pandan flavour and filled with rich, oozing salted egg yolk custard. Another delightful bite was the Crispy Mini Pumpkin Pastry with Minced Chicken, Mushroom, and Thyme. The pastry had a chewy texture that became more enjoyable with each bite. Lastly, the Crispy Ugly Duckling with Chicken, Yam, and Mushroom was packed with flavour and texture, making it an irresistible choice.

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Peking Duck 4.2/5

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Ya Ge's Weekend Dim Sum Brunch also features a live station that rotates weekly, offering dishes such as Peking Duck, Sliced Spotted Garoupa Pao Fan, Xiao Long Bao with Crab Roe Filling, Herbal Crispy Duck Roll, and more. During our visit, we were treated to the Peking Duck, a classic dish that was expertly prepared and a pleasure to eat.


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Claypot French 'An Xin' Chicken in Traditional Kam Heong Style 4.5/5

If you think dim sum is the only highlight, think again. The brunch also includes several main courses that are worth trying. The Claypot French 'An Xin' Chicken in Traditional Kam Heong Style was a standout, with tender chicken pieces cooked in a fragrant lemongrass and kam heong sauce that was so delicious, it had me craving for a bowl of rice to go with it.

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Braised Dong Po Iberico Pork 4.2/5

Another memorable dish was the Braised Dong Po Iberico Pork, which was cooked to perfection, melting in the mouth with every bite.

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Braised Mee Pok with Eggplant and Kurobuta Minced Pork 4.2/5

We opted for the Braised Mee Pok with Eggplant and Kurobuta Minced Pork for our carbo fix. The sauce was rich and savoury, complementing the perfectly cooked noodles that had just the right amount of bite.

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Chilled Lemongrass Jully, Chilled Mango Pomelo Sago 4/5

We indulged in desserts like the Chilled Lemongrass Jelly and Chilled Mango Pomelo Sago to wrap up our sumptuous brunch. Both desserts were light, sweet, and refreshing, providing a perfect end to our meal.

Available only on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays
First Seating: 11.30am - 1.30pm (Last Order at 1pm)
Second Seating: 12.30pm - 2.30pm (Last Order at 2pm)
Pricing:
S$68++ per adult (min. 2 persons)
$48++ per child (4-12 years old)

The Weekend Dim Sum Brunch at Ya Ge offers a delightful combination of classic and innovative dishes, all prepared with finesse and attention to detail. Whether you're a dim sum traditionalist or someone who enjoys trying new flavours, this brunch is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you planning your next visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Ya Ge (雅阁)
Orchid Hotel Singapore
1 Tras Link
Singapore 078867
Tel: +65 6818 6831
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight towards Orchid Hotel. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, June 20, 2024

Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant @ Anchorvale Village - Opens A New Outlet in Sengkang with Exclusive Dishes

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Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant, a household name in Singapore, has opened a new outlet at Anchorvale Village, bringing its legendary dim sum closer to residents in the Sengkang area. Known for its consistently delicious offerings and bustling atmosphere, Swee Choon's new outlet introduces a slew of exclusive dishes on top of the usual classics.

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Triple Combination of BBQ Meat 4/5

One of the new outlet exclusives is the BBQ Meat selection. You can pair these with rice or noodles or enjoy them on their own. We had the Triple Combination of BBQ Meat ($23.90), featuring Honey Char Siew, Garlic Roasted Chicken, and Roasted Pork. The Honey Char Siew was nicely glazed and incredibly tender, earning high marks. The Garlic Roasted Chicken surprised us with its crispy skin and tender meat, and the fragrant chicken rice we paired with it was perfect. Although we wished for more crackling on the skin of the Roasted Pork, it was nicely seasoned and not too salty.

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Siew Mai 3.8/5

Salted Egg Custard Bun 2
Salted Egg Yolk Custard Bao 4/5

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Baked BBQ Char Siew Bao 3/5

No visit to Swee Choon is complete without sampling their classic dim sum items. We started with the Siew Mai ($2.90/2pcs), which was juicy and meaty, packed with ingredients. The Salted Egg Yolk Custard Bao ($5.80/3pcs) featured soft, fluffy dough filled with a sweet and savoury salted egg custard that oozed like lava, making it a delightful treat. For those seeking a texture contrast, the Baked BBQ Char Siew Bao ($4.90/2pcs) offered a crusty exterior with a fluffy interior filled with chunky sweet BBQ char siew.

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Swee Choon Signature Mee Suah Kueh 3/5

A must-try is the Swee Choon Signature Mee Suah Kueh ($3.30/2pcs), which provides a delightful textural contrast with its crispy exterior and soft interior.

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'Sichuan Chilli Oil Dumpling 3/5

The Sichuan Chilli Oil Dumplings ($5.90) was drenched in fragrant Sichuan chilli oil. These plump and juicy dumplings, encased in soft, translucent skins, offered a spicy kick.

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Tofu Bomb 4/5

An innovative take on traditional dim sum, the Tofu Bomb ($4/2pcs) featured a crispy exterior filled with flavourful ingredients and a slight spiciness from the mixed chopped chilli inside, making it a flavour bomb in itself.

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Lychee Prawn Cheese Ball 3.5/5

Another creative dish is the Lychee Prawn Cheese Ball ($3.90/2pcs), shaped to resemble the lychee fruit with a delightful crispy coat. It’s filled with cheese for an elevated taste profile, though I wished the prawn flavour was more pronounced.

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Sweet Potato Salted Egg Custard Ball 4/5, Baked Hong Kong Egg Tart 3.5/5

We ended our meal with some sweet delights. The Sweet Potato Salted Egg Custard Ball ($3.90/2pcs) was a highlight with its oozing lava filling and mochi-like chewy texture. The Baked Hong Kong Egg Tart ($3.50) offered a sweet, creamy, and eggy custard encased in a buttery tart, making for a satisfying end to our meal.

Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant's new outlet at Anchorvale Village continues its tradition of delivering delicious dim sum while introducing exciting new dishes. It's a welcome addition to the Sengkang dining scene, sure to delight both long-time fans and new customers alike.

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


Swee Choon
Anchorvale Village
339A Anchorvale Road
#B1-06/07
Singapore 541339
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Nearest MRT: Sengkang (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Sengkang MRT station. Transfer to Sengkang LRT station. Take the LRT to Farmway LRT Station. Take Exit B and walk to destination. Journey timeabout 8 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Mashi No Mashi @ Guoco Midtown - – Chef Hisato Hamada, founder of WAGYUMAFIA Opens 100% Wagyu Ramen Concept in Singapore

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Mashi No Mashi, located at Guoco Midtown, is a ramen concept by Wagyumafia, a collective of restaurants renowned for harnessing the qualities and versatility of Japan's most famous beef through various culinary concepts. Founded by Chef Hisato Hamada, Wagyumafia prides itself on working directly with farmers and selecting only the top 1% of the finest Kobe and Ozaki beef. Since its establishment in 2019, Mashi No Mashi has been acclaimed for serving the world's first 100% Wagyu ramen.

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Wagyu Tsukemen 4/5

The dish that brought Mashi No Mashi to fame is its signature Wagyu Tsukemen, featuring succulent slices of slow-cooked Ozaki beef paired with their signature noodles. The accompanying dipping broth, a 24-hour stewed Wagyu bone broth, was rich in umami and full-bodied, perfectly complementing the thicker-cut noodles with an enjoyable chewy texture. While the ramen as a whole provided a deeply satisfying mouthfeel and flavour, I found the alkaline taste of the noodles less appealing.

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Ultra Wagyu Ramen 4.8/5

Ultra Wagyu Ramen ($22) is the brand's first-ever fukuoka Hakata-style ramen, and Singapore is the first outpost to permanently feature it on its menu. This beef-centric Hakata-style ramen broth is made using the finest wagyu bones, which undergo a laborious three-stage heating process to extract maximum flavour and aroma. The broth was an absolute pleasure to savour, together with the luscious pieces of wagyu char siew.

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Wagyu Bak Kut Teh 4.5/5

This outlet also launched a Singapore-exclusive menu, starting with Wagyu Bak Kut Teh ($30). Served with a peppery homemade wagyu bone stock, traditional Bak Kut Teh purists may not favour this dish as much. Personally, I love this rendition, which was delightful with a heady, garlicky, and peppery broth. The texture and flavour of the meat were exceptional as well. However, with the price tag, it can definitely be more wholesome with the portions of the You Tiao and Preserved Vegetables.

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Wagyu Cha Siu Donburi 4/5

There are also donburi options available, such as the Wagyu Cha Siu Donburi ($32), which showcases slices of Wagyu Cha Siu draped over Ginger Beef Akitakomachi Rice. The plump and pearly rice was so moreish mixed with flavourful minced ginger beef that it almost stole the spotlight.

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Wagyu Gyoza 5/5

The Dim Sums here are highly recommended. Wagyu Gyoza ($8 for 2pc) uses 100% Ozaki Beef. Each piece was filled with four different cuts of juicy Ozaki beef and minced vegetables, achieving a succulent bite in every mouthful.

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Wagyu Siu Mai 5/5

Offering a similar bite and satisfaction is Wagyu Siu Mai ($15). The texture was on point.

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Sui Gyoza 4/5

The other two dim sums we tried were well executed: Black Bean Spare Ribs ($15), featuring Steamed Wagyu Spare Ribs with Black Bean and Garlic Sauce, and Sui Gyoza, boiled wagyu gyoza drizzled with tangy Japanese sansho chilli sauce. In fact, I enjoyed them much more than the traditional pork versions.

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Black Bean Spare Ribs 4/5

More Singapore-exclusive dishes, such as wagyu laksa and hokkien mee, will be rolled out later in the year. An interesting beverage menu with inventive cocktails is also available, including Chef Hisato's proprietary rendition of a Singapore sling ($18).

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.


Mashi No Mashi
Guoco Midtown
124 Beach Road
#01-04
Singapore 189771
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to Tan Quee Lan Street. Turn left and walk down Tan Quee Lan Street to Beach Road. At Beach Road, cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station Take Exit F. Walk straight down Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]