Showing posts with label Soft Shell Crab. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Soft Shell Crab. Show all posts

Saturday, July 11, 2026

Man Fu Yuan @ Frasers House - Threads of Fire & Spice: A Four-Hands Cantonese-Thai Collaboration

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Man Fu Yuan (满福苑) at Frasers House, Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore presents Threads of Fire & Spice, a limited-time four-hands collaboration with Lily’s from The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, available exclusively from 17 to 18 July 2026. Bringing together the refined precision of Cantonese cuisine and the bold, aromatic vibrancy of Thai flavours, the experience unfolds through a thoughtfully curated menu that layers fire, spice, fragrance, and depth across each course. This spectacular 12-course dinner is priced at $208++ per person, with an optional 5-glass wine pairing available for an additional $50++ per guest.

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Amouse Bouche Lily’s: Emerald Yellow Fin 4.2/5

The evening begins on an elegant note with a trio of amuse-bouches that set the tone for the journey ahead. Chef Pop’s Emerald Yellow Fin (翡翠黄鳍) is both delicate and expressive — a matcha-infused crisp crowned with yellowfin tuna tartare, avocado-matcha puree, and ikura. The interplay of earthy matcha and the natural sweetness of the tuna creates a refreshing opening, lifted by the gentle salinity of roe.

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Amuse Bouche Man Fu Yuan: Ocean Elixir 3.5/5

Following that, Chef Aaron’s Ocean Elixir (海之清露) offers a chilled Teochew-style seafood consomme, its clarity and depth enhanced by fragrant lemongrass aromatics that lend a subtle Southeast Asian lift.

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Cold Prelude Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Pu’er Whisper 4/5

Completing the opening sequence is Pu’er Whisper (普洱烟韵), a collaborative creation featuring lightly smoked kingfish paired with smoked Pu’er tea, Tubtim Siam pomelo, Thai chilli puree, and calamansi. The dish delivers a refined balance of smokiness, citrus brightness, and restrained heat, showcasing the harmony between both culinary traditions.

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Soup Man Fu Yuan: Silk Tofu Consomme 4.5/5

The Silk Tofu Consomme (极汤锦绣豆腐, 奶白菜) is a masterclass in Cantonese technique. The consomme, painstakingly prepared from pork, chicken, and Chinese cured meats, is steamed over eight hours to achieve remarkable clarity and depth. Paired with handcrafted flower tofu of silky, almost ethereal texture, the dish reflects the discipline and finesse that define classical Cantonese cuisine.

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Ocean Lily’s: Chiang Mai Khao Soi Softshell Crab 4.2/5

Thai influences come to the forefront with Chiang Mai Khao Soi Softshell Crab (清迈软壳蟹) by Chef Pop. Here, sustainable softshell crab is paired with yellow noodles and ikura, all enveloped in a rich, aromatic Chiang Mai curry. The dish reimagines the beloved Northern Thai staple with a contemporary touch, balancing creaminess, spice, and umami.

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Poultry Man Fu Yuan: Perfumed Duck 5/5

A highlight from Man Fu Yuan is the Perfumed Duck (幽香泰茶鸭). The Irish duck breast is roasted and tea leaf-smoked, imparting a subtle smokiness that complements its tender, succulent flesh. A tamarind glaze adds a gentle tang, while plum tomatoes add brightness, resulting in a dish that elegantly bridges Cantonese roasting traditions with Thai-inspired acidity and fragrance.

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Signature Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Typhoon Lobster 4.2/5

The collaboration reaches a crescendo with the Typhoon Lobster (泰风 · 蒜香龙虾), a defining creation that encapsulates the menu’s spirit. Inspired by Cantonese “Typhoon Shelter” style cooking, the rock lobster is elevated with Thai and Southeast Asian aromatics. Crispy garlic, dried chilli, and a fragrant tom yum essence deliver layers of complexity, marrying wok hei intensity with vibrant spice and citrus notes.

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Heritage Lily’s: Massaman Wagyu Short Rib 4/5

Chef Pop’s Massaman Wagyu Short Rib (玛莎曼和牛) is another standout, offering a luxurious interpretation of the classic Southern Thai curry. The Wagyu short rib is slow-braised to fork-tender perfection, absorbing the deep, aromatic spices of the Massaman curry. Finished with a velvety Southern curry hollandaise, crispy fried shallots, and kaffir lime essence, the dish strikes a harmonious balance between richness and brightness.

The Scallop Legacy (带子皇炒饭) by Chef Aaron reinterprets Cantonese baked fragrant rice with king scallop, preserved vegetables, and cheese. Presented with a tableside flourish, the dish captivates both visually and aromatically — so much so that it momentarily distracts from taking a photo of it — but its comforting yet elevated flavours leave a lasting impression.

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Palate Cleanser Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Lime Lychee Cloud 4.2/5

A refreshing Lime Lychee Cloud cleanses the palate with its light, aromatic profile. The lychee sorbet, infused with kaffir lime and lemongrass, is bright and uplifting, preparing diners for the dessert finale.

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Dessert Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Golden Mango Duo Symphony Rice Pudding Mango 4.5/5

Dessert arrives in a duo that celebrates tropical indulgence. The Golden Mango Duo Symphony Rice Pudding Mango pairs creamy rice pudding with coconut and vanilla sauce, offering a comforting, luscious finish.

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Dessert Lily's & Man Fu Yuan: Mango Puree 4/5

This is complemented by a chilled Mango Puree with pink pomelo and peach collagen, delivering a refreshing contrast with its clean, fruity sweetness.

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Petite Four Man Fu Yuan: Milk Tea Egg Tart, Pandan Red Date Cake 4/5

Threads of Fire & Spice is a compelling showcase of culinary synergy, where two distinct traditions intertwine seamlessly. Chef Aaron and Chef Pop demonstrate how contrasting techniques and flavour philosophies can come together in harmony, creating a dining experience that is both refined and exciting. With its limited two-day run, this collaboration offers a rare opportunity to experience a thoughtfully orchestrated dialogue between Cantonese elegance and Thai vibrancy.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Man Fu Yuan
Frasers House
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

GU:UM @ Keong Saik - Contemporary Korean Steakhouse Launches Limited-Time Local-Inspired SG60 Menu

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Helmed by Chef Louis Han of One Michelin-starred NAE:UM, GU:UM continues to impress with its contemporary take on Korean barbecue, spotlighting premium meats laced with Asian and Korean influences.

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To celebrate SG60 and Singapore’s birthday, Chef Louis and his team have launched a limited-time SG60 Menu available till the end of August. This special offering showcases familiar local flavours creatively fused with traditional Korean ingredients and sauces, available either a la carte or as part of the GU:UM Sang Set Menu ($168 per pax), which includes both current signatures and SG60 exclusives. Diners ordering the set will also enjoy a complimentary cocktail during August.

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For non-alcoholic pairings, we tried the Homemade Chung Fizz ($12), available in grapefruit or orange. The grapefruit version stood out with its crisp, refreshing finish and lighter sweetness.

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Mandu Wings 4.2/5

We kicked off with the Mandu Wings ($18), deboned chicken wings restuffed with a savoury mandu-style mix of marinated minced chicken, glass noodles, and chives. Deep-fried and baked for a crisp finish while retaining a juicy interior, the wings were served with an appetising mala tomato gochujang sauce that added a punchy, tangy spice. We thought that this was such a clever cross!

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Gochujang Soft Shell Chilli Crab 4.2/5

Next came the Gochujang Soft Shell Chilli Crab ($32), a nod to one of Chef Louis’ favourite local dishes. The dish stayed true to key chilli crab elements while layering in Korean touches. Crispy soft shell crabs, coated in fried sago, were nestled in a gochujang-spiced gravy, paired with grilled Cheongyang peppers and chewy Korean rice cakes instead of the classic fried mantous. It was balanced and flavourful, with notes of sweetness, acidity and buttery depth.

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Iberico Pork OP Rib 4.5/5

Though not part of the SG60 menu, the Iberico Pork OP Rib ($116 for 400g) was a standout. Grilled to a medium pink with a light char, the pork was tender yet slightly chewy, served with a vibrant spread of condiments including wasabi, kimchi, achar, and fermented squid. This cut is one of the restaurant’s three new premium additions alongside Shimo Wagyu MBS6 Anchangsal ($156 for 280g, $86 for half portion) and Australian Rack of Lamb ($126 for 550g).

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Dalkochi Satay 4.2/5

The smoky Dalkochi Satay ($26) reimagines local satay using skewered chicken, tteok, and Japanese leek, marinated in a nutty ssamjang rempah sauce.

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Uncle Lulu’s Fried Rice 4.8/5

Served in a hot Korean stonepot, Uncle Lulu's Fried Rice ($34 for 2-3 pax) featured kimchi fried rice topped with tender grilled Jeju-style squid. We polished this quickly despite being full at this point, and loved it for its alluring char and well-balanced kimchi flavour. Unlike the usual renditions of this dish we've had, where the kimchi usually overpowers, it was less tangy and acidic here.

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Red & White Bingsu 4.5/5

To wrap up, the Red & White Bingsu ($18) delivered a surprising highlight. Inspired by Singapore's national colours and traditional Korean shaved ice, it featured watermelon sorbet, yoghurt cream, pomelo bits, watermelon lime granita, mint, and lemon zest. It was textural, wonderfully refreshing, and not too sweet, making it a perfect finish to our indulgent meal.

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.


GU:UM
29 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089136
Tel: +65 8831 6308
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 6pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sun: 1130am - 430pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Teck Lim Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road to Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Monday, July 14, 2025

Choon Hoy Parlor @ Arcade The Capitol Kempinski - Bringing A Delicious New Chapter to Singapore Soul Food

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After a successful debut at Beach Road in May 2024, Choon Hoy Parlor has now found its new home at Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski, sitting right next to Chef Dylan Ong’s other venture, The Masses. This latest iteration of the restaurant continues its heartfelt tribute to Chef Dylan’s beloved mother, with a concept rooted in nostalgic home-style cooking but given refined, modern interpretations.

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Roti Bakar 3.5/5

The humble kaya toast gets a modern lift with the Roti Bakar ($8.90). Crisp toast is layered with coffee butter and salted egg kaya, then crowned with smoked lumpfish caviar. While this twist on the traditional Hainanese breakfast is inventive, the fusion of flavours may not be for everyone, but it certainly makes for a conversation starter.

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Oriental Charcuterie Board 4/5

One of the more surprising highlights is the Oriental Charcuterie Board ($25.90). This dish cleverly reimagines the Western classic with an Asian twist — think house-cured XO lap cheong, duck liver sausage, waxed duck, and kampot pepper sausage, all paired with crispy you tiao and tempeh. A trio of punchy sides, including pickled mango with belachan, achar, and fu ru (fermented beancurd) labneh, adds bright acidity and complexity.

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Marinated Kingfish 4.2/5

Inspired by hawker-style yusheng, the Marinated Kingfish ($19.90) features sashimi-style kingfish tossed in a tangy, spicy dressing of chilli oil, calamansi, and She De Baijiu. Topped with endives and fresh herbs, this is a refreshing, elegant dish that still pays homage to its street food roots.

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Buah Keluak Typhoon Soft Shell Crab 4/5

A bold twist on the classic typhoon shelter-style crab, the Buah Keluak Typhoon Soft Shell Crab ($25.90) features lightly battered and deep-fried soft shell crab topped with a heady mix of stir-fried aromatics — garlic, shallots, dried shrimp, fresh chilli, and the unmistakably earthy buah keluak. It’s a punchy, umami-laden flavour bomb with layers of texture that make each bite immensely satisfying.

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Same Same But Different Pork Satay 4.2/5

The Same Same But Different Pork Satay ($16.90/$31.90) is a clever reimagining of satay as a DIY experience. Grilled pork is served with popiah skin wraps, pineapple jam, peanut sauce, and fresh herbs — think of it as satay meets Korean BBQ. It's fun, flavourful, and highly customisable.

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Chye Ber aka Vegetable Ends 5/5

One of the standout dishes of the evening was the Chye Ber aka Vegetable Ends ($16.90). It reminded me of a similar rendition from Liu Fu Si Fang Cai, but this version takes it up a notch. The assorted vegetable ends are stewed until meltingly tender in a tangy, garlicky gravy made with tamarind, tomato, and dried chilli, enriched further with the richness of pig trotter. The result is a deeply comforting dish with an elevated, robust flavour profile.

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Morel Silkie Chicken Consomme 4.5/5

The Morel Silkie Chicken Consommé ($14.90/$34.90) offers delicate clarity and depth. The double-boiled broth, infused with morels, cordyceps, and honey dates, is reminiscent of traditional Chinese herbal soups but elevated in its finesse.

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Mocha Prime Pork Ribs 4.2/5

Taking cues from the classic coffee pork ribs, Mocha Prime Pork Ribs ($25.90) ups the ante with 15-hour sous vide ribs, a sticky coffee glaze, and a velvety Vietnamese egg coffee espuma. Finished with pistachios and cocoa nibs, this dish brings creativity and decadence in equal measure.

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Assam Stingray 4.8/5

A new menu addition, the Assam Stingray ($39.90), impressed with its bright, tangy Malay-style gravy packed with tamarind, lemongrass, and lime juice. The stingray was tender, and the medley of vegetables — brinjal, tomato, okra, and pineapple — lent a balanced sweet-sour complexity. It is one of the most complete and compelling dishes on the menu.

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Claypot Dry Laksa 4.2/5

The Claypot Dry Laksa ($18.90/$33.90) is one for laksa lovers seeking something novel. Cooked in a claypot for added wok hei, the dish delivers intense laksa rempah flavour, bolstered by cockles, prawns, beansprouts, and sinful pork lard. It's a satisfying, punchy reinterpretation.

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Trio of Orh Nee 4/5

We wrapped up the meal with the Trio of Orh Nee ($12.90), a modern reinterpretation of one of Chef Dylan’s cherished childhood desserts. This playful version features a medley of yam, sweet potato, and purple potato, enriched with brown butter and maple syrup for added depth. Served with coconut ice cream, chewy taro balls, ginkgo nuts, and a delicate pork lard tuile, it’s a whimsical yet heartfelt tribute to a classic heirloom recipe.

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Baijiu & Lychee 4/5

Finishing on a tropical note, the Baijiu & Lychee ($13.90) is a layered dessert of pineapple chutney, lychee salsa, foams and sorbets, brightened with perilla and cooled with coconut ice cream. It’s refreshing, well-executed, and slightly boozy in a good way.

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Choon Hoy Parlor continues to shine in its new location at Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski, delivering heartfelt, elevated renditions of familiar Asian comfort food. Chef Dylan Ong masterfully blends nostalgia with innovation, paying tribute to his mother’s home-cooked meals while introducing creative twists that surprise and delight. With its soulful flavours, thoughtful execution, and playful reinterpretations, Choon Hoy Parlor offers a dining experience that feels both personal and refreshingly modern — a true celebration of heritage with a contemporary edge.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Choon Hoy Parlor
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
15 Stamford Road
#01-84A
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6266 0061
Facebook
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Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

Spruce Petite @ East Coast Road - Up Its Game with A New Revamped Menu

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We visited Spruce Petite in May when it was just a couple of months old. Recently, they have revamped their menu based on diner feedback, showcasing their dedication to continuous improvement — a quality we greatly appreciate in a sincere F&B establishment. Additionally, they now offer an impressive array of cocktails.

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Mala King Mushroom Skewers 4.5/5

We began our meal with their featured bar bites, each priced at just $12. The Mala King Mushroom Skewers were perfectly grilled and dusted in a fragrant mala spice mix that delivered a numbing, spicy kick. We loved how the mushrooms retained their juiciness, leaving us eager for more.

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Korean Style Chicken Wingettes 4/5

The next bar bite we tried was the Korean Style Chicken Wingettes, which left a lasting impression. Despite being coated in a spicy sauce, the wingettes remained crispy. The sauce struck a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, enhancing the overall flavour.

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Yakitori Skewers 3/5

The last bar bite we sampled was the Yakitori Skewers, featuring tender chunks of chicken that were nicely charred. However, we found the marinade a bit on the sweet side for our taste. Despite this, the skewers were still enjoyable and great with a drink or two.

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Chili Soft Shell Crab 3.8/5

They also offer two specials on the bar bites menu. We tried the Chilli Soft Shell Crab ($24), featuring crispy fried soft-shell crab in a sweet chilli sauce reminiscent of Singapore's national chilli crab. A unique twist to this dish is the inclusion of an onsen egg, rather than having the egg cooked into the sauce as in traditional chilli crab. We craved for some bread or mantou to mop up the delightful dish. Another special item on the menu is the Fresh Oysters ($20 for 6pcs), available exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays.

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Ribeye Steak 4/5

For mains, we started with the Ribeye Steak ($28) served with black pepper sauce, which truly satisfied our steak cravings. We requested it medium rare, and it was served just as we liked it - nicely grilled to perfection. The steak was impeccably seasoned and incredibly tender, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Accompanying the steak were flavourful potato pieces and a side of juicy tomatoes, which complemented the dish wonderfully.

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Classic Fish & Chips 4/5

Next, we tried the Classic Fish & Chips ($18), a classic that did not disappoint. The fish was beautifully battered and fried to a golden crisp, while the inside remained tender and flaky. Paired with perfectly cooked, crispy fries and a tangy tartar sauce, it was a delightful dish to share or have on your own.

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Classic Beef Burger 4/5

Lastly, the Classic Beef Burger ($14) was served with golden crispy fries. A juicy grilled beef patty nestled between soft, toasted buns was complemented by crisp lettuce, tomato, and a thick slice of cheddar cheese. This classic never goes wrong and is perfect any time of day.

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Fire Dragon 3.8/5 (top left), Harley Quinn 3.5/5 (top right), Malaysian Assam Laksa 4/5 (bottom)

Adding to the revamped menu is a cocktail menu featuring a curated selection of speciality cocktails priced at $18 each or 3 for $45. Among them is the distinctive Malaysian Assam Laksa, boasting a fragrant blend of spices with a gentle kick of heat, offering a truly unique flavour experience unlike anything else we've tasted. For a refreshing option, the Fire Dragon delights with its fresh dragon fruit juice base. Lastly, the visually stunning Harley Quinn, inspired by the Suicide Squad, is captivated by its beauty but leans towards a sweeter profile.

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Godfather 3.8/5

We also savoured the Godfather, a pleasantly delightful concoction featuring whiskey with a pronounced sweet almond flavour profile. Lastly, the X-rated Margarita, crafted with Jose Cuervo Tequila, perfectly complements its salted glass rim, offering a sophisticated and balanced taste experience.

You can also make your own cocktail for $28 and choose your flavour and type of alcohol. Just let the mixologist know and be surprised!

Weekend Specials: Enjoy 2 hours of free-flow Oysters, Wine and Prosecco at $40++ per pax from 12pm.

Starting from 30th June, Spruce Petite is launching a brunch menu every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-2pm featuring Pancake with Blueberry Jam ($8), Crispy Bread with Sous Vide Egg ($8), Avocado Toasties ($12), Ham & Cheese Toasties ($12) and English Breakfast Set ($18)

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


[CLOSED]
Spruce Petite
19 East Coast Road
Singapore 428746
Tel: +65 9068 9249
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 3pm - 11pm
Fri: 3pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: 10am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10 or 32. Alight 6 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Brooke Road. Turn right onto Brooke Road. Walk down Brooke Road to East Coast Road. Cross the road, turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.  [Map]