Tian Cheng Food (天成美食) @ Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre

Having been to Tiong Bahru Market and Food Centre numerous time, this is my first time visiting Tian Cheng Food (天成美食). The stall sells a lot of Chinese light bites and snacks. What caught my attention was the fried to golden brown prawn fritter.

Prawn Fritter 4/5

The Prawn Fritter ($1.50) is deep fried to golden brown with a whole prawn on it. It is to be eaten together with the shell. Do be careful if children is eating it as the shell of the prawn head may cut the tongue if one is not careful.

Prawn Fritter 4/5

You can ask the stall owner to cut the prawn fritter, so that it is easier for consumption. I like to have it together with the chilli sauce. The prawn which can be eaten with the shell is crispy giving it a contrasting texture on top of the pillowy, doughy base, almost like bread.

Prawn Fritter 4/5

The prawn fritter may not be delicacy but it definitely is one of those local snack or if you want to call it street food that is comforting and enjoyable.


Tian Cheng Food (天成美食)
Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre
30 Seng Poh Road
#01-42
Singapore 168898
Nearest MRT: Tiong Bahru (EW line), Outram (EW Line, NE Line)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Head east on Tiong Bahru Road towards Jalan Membina. Walk down Tiong Bahru and turn right onto Kim Pong Road. Turn left onto Lim Liak Street. Walk to end of Lim Liak Street and turn right onto Seng Poh Road. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Outram MRT station. Take Exit A or C. Walk to bus stop opposite Outram MRT station (Stop ID 06011). Take bus no. 33, 63, 75, 851 or 970. Alight 1 stop later at Blk 55 Tiong Bahru Road. Continue on Tiong Bahru Road and turn left onto Seng Poh Road. Continue on Seng Poh Road until destination. Journey time 8 minutes. [Map]

Indian Taste Hunter @ Telok Blangah Drive Food Centre

It was a lazy Sunday morning when I went down to Truly Curry Rice to check out their new breakfast beehoo set at Telok Blangah Drive Food Centre that I chanced upon Indian Taste Hunter, a few stalls further down.

Firstly a notice a short queue at the stall. As I approached the stall I noticed a lady behind the small premise cooking the apom. What caught my attention is the freshly made Apom and I could not resist joining the queue to order one to try.

Apom 4.2/5

The a la minute Apom ($1.10) was thin and crispy on the edges while the middle is soft and fluffy. The indian fermented rice pancake is a delightful snack to be eaten together with some sugar and grated coconut topping.

Besides the Apom, the humble little stall also sells other Indian delights too. I do not have the stomach to try the other items after a heavy meal at Truly Curry Rice. I will be back to try more of the items. For now, Indian Taste Hunter definitely has made themselves into my listing for one of the better apom hunt.


Indian Taste Hunter
Telok Blangah Drive Food Centre
79 Telok Blangah Drive
#01-27
Singapore 100079
Nearest MRT: Telok Blangah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 3pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Blangah MRT station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge to the other side of the road. Cut across block 45 to Telok Blangah Drive. At Telok Blangah Drive, turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Ginza Lion Beer Hall @ Suntec City Mall

When I was told that Sapporo Lion Group has opened Ginza Lion Beer Hall in Suntec. I was rather surprise. It shows how long I have not stepped into Suntec City. The place has really changed with new F&B establishments moving into the refurnished tower 4 of the mall.

Sapporo Premium Beer, Boot (600ml)

Ginza Lion Beer Hall started in Ginza, Tokyo since 1899 originally as the sales division of Sapporo Beer. Hence it is not surprise to find sapporo beer on the menu. I thought the Sapporo Premium Beer served in a boot glass ($18) was rather interesting.

Tai Lemon Ponzu 4/5

So what do Japanese like to eat when they have a couple of drinks? The Tai Lemon Ponzu ($12) which is seabream  sashimi with sliced onion, fried garlic with lemon and shoyu sauce is not a surprise consisting Japanese loves their sashimi. The light and refreshing flavours made it a pleasant companion for the drinks.

Asazuke 4.5/5

The Asazuke ($5) which is homemade pickled radish and cucumber is very addictive with it sourness and some how help to neutralize that bitter aftertaste of alcohol on the palate.

Gobo Karaage 3/5

A new chapter in my food experience is the Gobo Karaage ($8). This is actually deep fried burdock, a type of root. It is actually pretty soft in texture.

Chicken Wings 4.5/5

Not to be missed is their Chicken Wings (4/8pc for $10/$18). The deep fried chicken wing with white pepper and soy sauce is well infused with the loving seasonings. Definitely one of the best wings I have eaten for a long while.

Prawn and Mushroom Ajillo 3/5

I like to call the Prawn and Mushroom Ajillo ($12), the Japanese interpretation of bruschetta. Two kinds of button mushrooms and prawn are cooked in garlic olive served in sliced breads. To eat, I placed the cooked mushroom and prawn on top of the bread and have them together.

Roasted Black Angus Beef 4.5/5

The beer hall not only serves bar food but it also offers a delectable selection of mains too. Not to be missed is their Roasted Black Angus Beef (200g/400g for $28/$50). Roasted to an inner pink with just salt and pepper, this is one beautiful and flavourful piece of steak cooked to perfection.

Grilled Chicken with Thyme 4.2/5

If you are not into beef, then the Grilled Chicken with Thyme ($18) is a good alternative. Grilled with thyme and served with rosemary potato, sauteed mushroom, broccoli and corn. Besides the juicy and tender chicken, the roasted rosemary potato caught my attention will its nice caramelized exterior.

Beer Batter Fish and Chips 4/5

From the land we moved to the sea. The Beer Batter Fish and Chips ($10/$18) served with french fries. The batter is thin and crisp but I could not really taste any trace of beer in the batter. For the fish itself, there were some mix reviews on the texture. The dory was really soft and melted in the mouth coated underneath the thin batter. However some prefers a bit of bites to it, suggesting maybe the use of red snapper maybe a better choice. Nevertheless, this is still a good plate of fish and chips to order.

Pancetta Carbonara 4/5

For something simple and quick especially for the working executive around the vicinity, the Pancetta Carbonara ($16) is worthy for a try. The creaminess coating around each strand of the pasta made it slurping good lifted by the saltiness from the Italian bacon.

Cumberland and Arabiki Sausages

The perfect choice to go with a glass of beer would be the Cumberland and Arabiki Sausages ($16). The plate comes with two pieces of in house recipe sausages as well as two pieces of Japanese herbed sausages served with mashed potato and sauerkraut. It can't really go wrong with these freshly made sausages.

Tiramisu 3/5

Creme Brulee 3/5

The menu also offers a couple of desserts but it definitely is not their forte. Both the Tiramisu  ($8) and Creme Brulee ($8) were decent but I probably would just spent the money on another round of beer.

Ginza Lion Beer Hall not only carries Sapporo beers but also alcohol from various countries such as Germany, Australia and Belgium. Together with a delectable selections of snacks and mains, this is a perfect place to chill out with a group of friends.


Ginza Lion Beer Hall
Suntec City Mall
3 Temasek Boulevard
#01-649/650
Tower 4
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 68366053
Website: http://www.sapporolionsg.com.sg/ginza-lion/
Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1130pm

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

Rabbit Stash @ Wangz Hotel

Rabbit Stash which used to be located at an old shop house along Alexandra Road has moved to its new premises at the roof top of Wangz Hotel in Tiong Bahru. Helmed by Chef Matthew, who is born in the year of Rabbit which explains his choice of the restaurant name. Today I am at Rabbit Stash to experience the seasonal menu inspired by the 7 characteristics of Enosphi (Soil, Pristine, Ocean, Nostalgia, Impression, Heritage, Exotic), using a combination of classic French techniques along with a touch of Asian and Singapore flavours.

Snacks 4.5/5

Before commencing on our dinner, we were presented a snack platter which is immediately brought back memories of my dining experience at Jaan. This is simply art on a plate. On the plate we have potato chips on wooden trunk, yam milk jam, lime mayonnaise, lotus chips, baby potatoes with mango and blueberry.

Soil 4/5

We soon embarked on a visual and gastronomic feast starting with Soil.  The garden on the plate consists of asparagus pudding, beurre noisette, beetroot "mushroom" and olive crumbs. It felt like a garden blooming with beautiful flowers and I was worried about stepping on them. It took me a while before deciding to explore the beautiful garden, delicately appreciating each elements.

Pristine 4/5

The journey continues, bringing us to Pristine consisting of langoustine, cabbage dashi, 1st born egg and brown rice. Actually I was a little disappointed with the presentation after having seen what the kitchen is capable of. I could not really figure out the inspiration behind the dish but the langoustine is definitely one of the sweetest I ever eaten.

Ocean 4.5/5

Inspired by Chef Matthew loves of diving is the Ocean. The plate consists of scallop. black ink sponge, smoked trout, shrimp and chips. The shrimp with banana mash in the oceanic view caught the attention of my palate with its interesting combination which tasted actually like our local fried banana fritter or goreng pisang.

Nostalgia 4/5

Nostalgia is the next dish which comes with a rich lobster broth, purple crab, handmade noodles and black roe.

Impression 4/5

Chef Matthew is well travelled and the next dish Impression is a reflection of his impressions of the food, people and culture from his travels abroad. Another beautiful presentation consisting of berkshire pig, granny smith, potato "mud" and watermelon.

Heritage 4.2/5

The Heritage is Chef Matthew's way of recreating the familiar taste and ingredients in a different way. The interesting reinventing consists of beef jowl, port-soy, barley porridge and red date. The beef jowl was so soft that it literally melted in the mouth.

Exotic 4/5

When I was introduced to the menu, Exotic caught my eyes with its unique flavour pairings with simple ingredients. I was eagerly waiting to try the green curry gelato. This is really unique. However having it alone maybe a bit overwhelming hence the thought of pairing with mango fromage blanc and snow wine pear gave it a good balance.

A petite four to wrapped up the 7 course degustation menu ($148+)

The new premises at the rooftop of Wangz Hotel spots an intimate 30 seater indoor dining room formed around a semi circle with floor to ceiling glass windows for a 180 degree view of the city. It has comes with a outdoor rooftop terrace in a lush alfresco garden setting.

Embark on a magical journey like Alice in gourmet Wonderland. Satisfying the craving and curiosity at the Rabbit Stash. Once you find the hideout, it will be hard to turn back. Dining at Rabbit Stash is like a visual and gastronomic feast where food is art and art tantalizes the taste buds and senses.


[CLOSED]
Rabbit Stash
Wangz Hotel
Level R (Rooftop)
231 Outram Road
Singapore 169040
Tel: +65 65951380
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therabbitstash.fanpage
Website: http://www.therabbitstash.com.sg/
Nearest MRT: Tiong Bahru (EW Line), Outram (EW Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri (lunch): 12pm - 2pm
Mon-Sat (dinner): 630pm - 1030pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Tiong Bahru Plaza (Stop ID 10169). Take bus number 33, 63 and 851. Alight at 2 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Outram MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road towards Singapore General Hospital. Turn right and walk down Outram Road. Continue on Outram Road onto Tiong Bahru Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Joo Bar and Restaurant @ Tan Quee Lan Street (Bugis)

Joo is a new makegeolli bar and restaurant setting a whole new trend in Singapore food and beverage scene with inspiring modern Korean fare and tipples. Joo which means alcohol in Korean, is located in a three storey heritage shophouses along Tan Quee Lan Street, spotting a sleek, casual and inviting venue.

Hong Dae Tripping 4/5

Makegeolli cocktail could be the next trendsetting drinks using the oldest alcoholic beverage native to Korea. I had the Hong Dae Tripping ($24) which is made from Joo's house brew organic makegeolli (also known as Joo Brew). The cocktail is a mixture of Joo Brew, Grey Goose, Apricot Brandy, Cherry Blossom, Lemon and Rosemary. A light, refreshing and zesty drink.

A trio of Korean banchan welcomes diners as being our diner experience at Joo.

Tofu Chips with Guacamole & Kimchi Salsa 4.2/5

Kick starting the evening we started with the Anju which is similar to bar food that goes well with alcohol. First is the Tofu Chips with Guacamole & Kimchi Salsa ($14). The house made tofu chips is so what like the nachos. I preferred the kimchi salsa but both is as well. It's really addictive and I could not stop going back for more.

Baby Eel Paper 3/5

The Deep Fried Baby Eel Paper ($14) imported from Korean is an interesting snack bite but I don't quite know how to appreciate it.

Warm Kimchi with Tofu & Spam 4.5/5

Many bars have introduced spam fries as a trend for bar snack however I find it too salty to have it on its own. The Warm Kimchi with Tofu & Spam ($16) was an excellent idea to pair house made kimichi, mangalitsa pork belly, tofu, onion and scallion with the luncheon meat. It may sounds complex but the flavours actually work harmoniously.

Makgeolli Sampler 4/5

Being a makegeolli specialized bar and restaurant, I am sure it can be a bit overwhelming with the different selections not knowing where to start with. Worry not as Joo offers a Makgeolli Sampler ($35 for 5). Among the samplers, my favourite is the Yuzu infused makegeolli which is sweet and easy to drink.

Kimchi Chicken Pot Pie 4/5

A nice twist is the Kimchi Chicken Pot Pie ($14) covered by a golden flaky pastry dome. Inside it is a rosy kimchi bechamel gravy studded with chicken tenderloin, celery, carrot, mushrooms, onion and corn. The additional of kimchi gave it good lift in flavour from the somewhat boring traditional taste.

Joo Bossam 4.5/5

Joo uses Mangalitsa for it's pork dishes which is a domestic breed developed in the 19th century by cross breeding the traditional Hungarian Bakonyi an Szalontal breeds with imported Sumadia pigs from Serbia. I thought the Joo Bossam ($28) showcases the sweetness the flavour of the mangalitsa pork belly excellent. Take a piece of the boiled mangalitsa pork belly, white yucha kimchi and a bit of the spicy radish salad and eat it all together.

Slow Roasted Mangalitsa Pork Belly  4.2/5

Another version showcasing the mangalitsa pork is the Slow Roasted Mangalitsa Pork Belly ($32). The thick cut mangalitsa pork belly is eaten together with spring onion salad and Dijon mustard. Have a bit of everything together to get a nice concoction of flavours in the mouth.

Hand Chopped Korean Minced Rib Steak 4.2/5

Beautifully marinated, the Hand Chopped Korean Minced Rib Steak ($20) literally melted in the mouth. Topped with garlic flakes, chopped nuts and spring onions to give it another layer of texture and flavour, lifting the whole enjoyment.

Sojurita 4.2/5

Perfect for chilling out with friends is the Sojurita ($28) which a good for 2 to 4 pax. The easy to drink alcohol, making up of soju and beer will be tough to just stop at one.

Seafood Gochujang Risotto 4.5/5

Last but not least, if you need something substantial then a must try is the Seaffod Gochujang Risotto ($24). The red pepper paste cream sauce risotto comes with an Asian influenced flavour served with shrimp, black mussel, clam and squid. Korean can cook their risotto too!

I left Joo Bar and Restaurant having a better appreciation of makegeolli, especially their preservative free makegeolli with organic rice and purified water which is brew in Singapore locally. The modern take of Korean fare also impressed me a lot. It modernizes the way we appreciate classic Korean cuisine while retaining the traditional flavours.


Joo Bar and Restaurant
5 Tan Quee Lan Street
Singapore 188094
Tel: +65 81381628
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joobarsg
Website: http://www.joo-bar.com/
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 530pm - 12midnight

Direction: 
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk straight to Tan Quee Lan Street. Turn left and walk to destination. [Map]

The Mama Shop @ Pearl's Hill Terrace

It has been a while since I have been out with Charleen and Kimberley. On a random weekend, we decided to drop by The Mama Shop at Pearl's Hill Terrace opened by Felicia Chin and Sora Ma. The shop front indeed catches my attention with its rustic provision shop feel and the clever play of colours brightens up the shop. The whole setup is an alfresco concept with tables outside the shop front and stretching into the courtyard on a busy day. The shop itself serves as a kitchen. Kind of reminds me of those old school canteens.

Happy Peppy Lobster Burger 2.8/5

Happy Peppy Lobster Burger 2.8/5

The Happy Peppy Lobster Burger ($16.90) looks quite good in the menu so we decided to get it. As per the description in the menu, the burger comes with chunks of Canadian lobster and prawns in wasabi mayo sauce. When the burger arrived, I was actually delighted to see the bed of wheel crackers. The childhood snack has been missed and I am glad that The Mama Shop is servicing them. Besides the colour presentation, the burger itself was rather pedestrian. I even asked Charleen whether there was any lobster in it cause I could only find the prawn.

Otah Roll 3/5

I have grown up eating bread with otah and when I saw the Otah Roll ($7.90) on the menu, I instantly checked with the girls whether it is ok for me to get it. The otah roll comes with grilled Muar otah sandwiched in soft bun accompanied with sweet and spicy sauce. It is comforting, just like having a hot dog bun but nothing to shout about. I would prefer the otah to be spicier though.

Okaasanwaffle 4/5

Lastly we tried the Okaasanwaffle ($4.90) which is crispy waffles with savoury seaweed chicken and sweet takoyaki sauce topped with bonito flakes. This is one of the most recommended items on social media and indeed it is the saving grace for our visit. The combination works perfectly with the seaweed and bonito flakes providing the supporting roles to the main casts. For the cost, this is one value for money delicious waffle.

The Mama Shop is a seclude little cafe inside the Old Police Operational Headquarters. It felt like you are in a deserted building, the building is really run down and not probably maintained. However it is also because of this, giving it a form of charm to the tiny establishment. Food wise it is not fantastic but the okaasanwaffle is passable.


The Mama Shop Cafe
195 Pearl's Hill Terrace
(Old Police Operational Headquarters)
#01-64
Singapore 168976
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Mama-Shop/1499558526956124
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun, Mon-Thu: 12pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk straight to People's Park Complex Food Centre. Cut through the food centre to the back. Turn left and you will see a flight of stairs. Go up the stairs. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]