Offbeat @ Far East Square - Asian-inspired Dishes by Coq & Balls

Offbeat, located in Far East Square, introduces the latest dining concept by Coq & Balls. The food menu showcases Asian-inspired dishes, ranging from Bites and Tapas to Mains, Grills, and Roman-style pizzas.

Salmon Tartare 4/5

We started with the Salmon Tartare ($18.90), a delightful dish featuring marinated raw salmon tossed with avocado and baby radish, garnished with tobiko. To complement the creamy tartare, crispy black sesame rice crackers were provided for a textural contrast. The combination was mouthwatering, with occasional bursts of nuttiness from the black sesame crackers.

Spanish Squid 4.5/5

From the Flamed Grill section, we indulged in the Spanish Squid ($22.90) dressed with salted egg beurre blanc and sweet tare. The expertly prepared grilled squid was delicious. It boasted a firm yet tender texture and a delightful smoky flavour. While the salted egg sauce added that Asian twist, it didn't quite elevate the natural flavours of the squid as expected.

Tiger Prawn Laksa Spaghetti 3.8/5

Drop by Offbeat during lunch and enjoy their mains at a special lunchtime price, with add-ons available, such as a glass of wine for just $6. Most items are crafted with Asian flavours, such as Pulled Pork Bahn Mi and Wagyu Beef Krapao Rice Bowl. During our visit, we tried the Tiger Prawn Laksa Spaghetti ($16.90). The Laksa sauce was more complex and heady than other laksa pasta variants I've tried, slightly reminiscent of curry noodles. The prawns were succulent, pairing well with the al dente spaghetti.

Egg Quinoa Cauliflower 'fried rice' 4.8/5

While most of the lunch specials are richly flavoured, there are also lighter options such as the Egg Quinoa Cauliflower 'fried rice' ($14.90), served with roasted butternut squash pumpkin. The 'fried rice' was flavourful and satisfying, with delightful bites of fried egg, reminiscent of a traditional fried rice dish. The large chunks of pumpkin were soft and deliciously sweet, accented with a hint of smoky flavour. I also appreciated the added freshness from the greens and slices of baby radish, which enhanced the dish's overall taste.

Okonomiyaki Pinsa 3.8/5

Offbeat offers Pinsa, a Roman-style stretched pizza. We indulged in the Okonomiyaki Pinsa ($24.50), a hearty Asian fusion creation featuring bacon and prawns, topped with oozy mozzarella and finished off with a drizzle of mentaiko cream and a sprinkle of bonito flakes. The ciabatta pizza base was light and airy, perfectly complementing the rich pizza toppings. While it could get a tad salty after a while, it was a scrumptious dish meant for sharing.

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.


Offbeat by Coq & Balls
Far East Square
40 Pekin Street
#01-01
Singapore 048770
Tel: +65 6322 3835
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 11:30am - 11pm
Fri: 11:30am - 12:30am
Sat: 5:30pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun & PH)

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

Sawa De' Kafe @ Chinatown - Offering both Traditional Thai Dishes And Fusion Plates

Sawa De'Kafe on Temple Street is a modern Thai bistro cafe that offers a delightful combination of well-loved Thai classics and fusion plates enriched with Thai flavours. The founders, Mr. David and his Thai wife from Chiang Rai, were former chefs during their time studying in Japan, where Japanese Western-style cafes are common and popular. Drawing inspiration from these fusion cafes, Mr David aims to offer diners a different way to enjoy Thai cuisine by creating Western-style dishes infused with Thai flavours alongside the classics, all within a cosy and comfortable environment. Overseeing the kitchen is his wife's ensuring the most authentic Thai flavours reach every table.

Mango Salad 4.8/5

Papaya Salad 4.8/5

I had the Papaya Salad ($7) and the Mango Salad ($7). Both dishes whetted my appetite with the utmost amount of peanuts and dried shrimp tossed into the shredded fruits, all brought to life with piquant Northern Thai-style sauce.

Kor Moo Yang 3.8/5

Kor Moo Yang ($15) features slices of grilled pork collar. While they weren't as tender as expected, they were quite delectable despite the visibly good amount of fats present, especially when paired with the dipping sauce.

Red Coconut Curry 5/5

Red Coconut Curry ($15) with Prawn is a dish that's impossible to discuss without salivating. It's robust and vibrant, packed with aromatics and spices. Staying true to its café concept, besides rice and glutinous rice, diners have the option to add on a Butter Croissant ($3.50) to soak up the irresistibly moreish curry. This pairing draws inspiration from the way we savour chilli crab with fried mantou.

Tom Yum Spaghetti 4/5

The menu offers a diverse range of pasta dishes infused with Thai flavours, including Green Curry, Red Curry Prawns, Basil Pork, and even Phad Thai with Spaghetti. I had the Tom Yum Spaghetti ($17). Brimming with seafood ingredients, the al dente spaghetti was zingy with a well-executed Tom Yum sauce. While most Tom Yum sauces out there tend to be relatively rich and creamy, the version here had a lighter consistency, which was much more elegant, and the heat level was just right. I particularly appreciate its bright and citrusy notes, which elevated the dish's overall taste.

Vegetarian Green Curry 3/5

Catering to the increasing demand for meatless options, most curries and pasta dishes have vegetarian alternatives. I opted for the Vegetarian Green Curry ($13), which included Konjac prawns, tofu, and brinjal. It's worth noting that a greater variety of vegetables would have been more complementary to the robust curry.

Ice Hale's Butterfly Pea Tea, Red Ruby, Green Tea Butterfly Pea Basque Cheesecake

Other than Thai desserts, there is also a range of cakes which one can enjoy with Thai beverages or coffees. Red Ruby with Jackfruit ($6) was rather average. I recommend the Green Tea Butterfly Pea Basque Cheesecake ($6), which is homemade by one of the couple's daughters and one of the best cheesecakes I have had for a long time. It was light and mildly sweet with a hint of lemony note, laced with an alluring tea fragrance. Its light bluish-green colour was aesthetically pleasing and tasted as elegant as it looked. Ice Hale's Butterfly Pea Tea ($6) was pretty with Thai pink milk, which was refreshing after all the spicy dishes.

High Tea sets are also available if you want to try more of their desserts and cakes. As Sawa De'Kafe is still relatively new, it will be adding more Western fusion dishes to the menu in the future.

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.


Sawa De'Kafe
30 Temple Street
#01-01
Singapore 058575
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sun: 11am - 930pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Pagoda Street. Turn right onto Trengganu Street. Walk down Trengganu Street and turn left onto Temple Street. Walk down Temple Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Surrey Hill Grocer @ Arena Country Club (Jurong) - Savours The Flavours of Australia At A Pet-friendly Cafe

Surrey Hill Grocer, located at Arena Country Club in Jurong, is a delightful local gem encompassing a lifestyle grocer and a cafe. This homegrown establishment proudly imports authentic Australian products and produces, offering Singaporeans a taste of the Down Under. During my recent weekend visit for lunch, the cafe was bustling with diners, including their furry friends, as Surrey Hill Grocer is a pet-friendly establishment.

Sweet Potato Fries 3.5/5

As we eagerly awaited our mains, we indulged in the chunky and satisfying Sweet Potato Fries. Crispy on the outside yet delightfully sweet and moist on the inside, these fries paired perfectly with the accompanying dipping sauce, creating a delectable combination.

Wagyu Bolognese 4.5/5

However, the star of the show for me was the Wagyu Bolognese. The spaghetti was flawlessly cooked to al dente, providing a delightful bite. Tossed in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce, it was further enhanced by generous parmesan shavings for an added savoury kick. With each slurp, the ample serving of minced wagyu was a mouthful of pure indulgence.

Melbourne Breakfast Avocado, Poached Egg 4.2/5

For those seeking a taste of Melbourne's vibrant cafe scene, the Melbourne Breakfast Avocado with Poached Egg will surely transport you back to those fond memories. A thick slice of sourdough bread is adorned with luscious Australian mashed avocado, whipped ricotta, vegemite emulsion, honey dukkha, micro herbs, and perfectly poached nuyolk eggs. This hearty breakfast platter will brighten up your day and leave you satisfied.

Hot Honey Fried Chicken Waffle 4.2/5

Another popular choice from the menu is the Hot Honey Fried Chicken Waffle. The crispy yet fluffy waffle is a delightful base for a juicy piece of twice-cooked fried chicken thigh, generously glazed with hot honey for a touch of natural sweetness. Balanced with torched cheddar and shaved parmesan, this dish is accompanied by maple syrup and butter on the side, adding a delightful contrast of flavours.

Strawberry Waffle 4.2/5

To complete our meal, we indulged in the Strawberry Waffle, a heavenly dessert that combines hot and cold contrasting sensations. The ice cream, drenched in a luscious strawberry sauce, alongside the burst of freshness from grapes, blueberries, and granola, culminated in a delightful and satisfying sweet ending to our dining experience at Surrey Hill Grocer.

Overall, Surrey Hill Grocer offers a unique and enjoyable dining experience. With its wide range of delectable dishes and pet-friendly environment, it's a place where food lovers and pet owners alike can come together to savour the flavours of Australia and create cherished memories.


Surrey Hill Grocer
Arena Country Club
511 Upper Jurong Road
#01-01
Singapore 638366
Tel: +65 80357497
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Joo Koon (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Joo Koon MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Benoi Road. Turn left onto Benoi Road. Walk to Upper Jurong Road. Turn right onto Upper Jurong Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Joo Koon MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Joo Koo Bus Interchange (Stop ID 24009). Take bus number 99 or 974. Alight one stop later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes.[Map]

The Marmalade Pantry @ Anchorpoint - New Outlet With New Menu-exclusives And Retail Items

The Marmalade Pantry has recently launched a new outlet at Anchorpoint. For a limited time until 31 August 2023, you get to enjoy new menu-exclusive Anchorpoint Specials alongside the familiar classics of the restaurant.

Fried Artichoke with Lemon Ricotta 4/5

From the outlet's exclusive menu, we started with Fried Artichoke with Lemon ($20). The Polenta-coated fried artichokes were crisped on the outside, with some of the inner petals remaining succulent and tender. The cold and zesty ricotta provided a cool and creamy contrast to the crispy artichoke.

Tortilla with Mesclun Salad 3.8/5

The next appetiser was Tortilla with Mesclun Salad ($16) that was goozy within, loaded with deep-fried cubed potatoes, flavourful diced Spanish Chorizo and sweet caramelised onions. The dollop of soy-based garlic aioli added a subtle tanginess to the tortilla and further enriched the mouth feel of the dish.

Pork Cheek and Carrot Puree 3.5/5

For mains, we had Pork Cheek and Carrot Puree ($28), served with roasted cabbage, tamarind, and ginger carrot puree. The texture of the braised pork cheek could be more tender, but overall they were nicely flavoured and enjoyable. A notable element of this dish is the sweet-sour tamarind and ginger carrot puree, which helped cut through the meat's richness.

Black Pepper Seafood Spaghetti 4/5

Black Pepper Seafood Spaghetti ($29) stood out with all elements done right. The black pepper sauce made with Sarawak black pepper was punchy, and the charred capsicum's fruity sweetness brought out the succulent seafood's sweetness. The seafood was at their right doneness with a good bounce, and the al dente spaghetti was a very satisfying plate of food.

Duck Ragu Pappardelle 3.8/5

Duck Ragu Pappardelle ($30) was hearty with a tantalising combination of flavours - plump, sweet tomatoes punctuating the deep and rich flavours of the balsamic braised duck. The large surface of the pappardelle and its relatively rough texture made it ideal for such a robust ragu. However, the texture of the pasta could have been better.

Kimchi Steak Fried Rice 3.8/5

A mainstay on the menu, Kimchi Fried Rice served with Argentinian Grass-Fed Sirloin Steak, 100g ($28) is a dish that excites the palate. The steamed rice was mouthwatering with soy sauce, sesame oil and fiery with chilli. The plancha-grilled sirloin steak had rich beefy notes, which complemented the bold flavours of the kimchi rice. However, some fresh elements as garnishes would help give this dish a more well-rounded taste.

Honeycomb Poached Pear 3.8/5

The outlet's exclusive dessert is Honeycomb Poached Pear ($16). The pear was made by poaching it in an aromatic ginger flower syrup. While I wished the flavour of the ginger flower could be more pronounced, it was tender and not overly sweet. The accompanying whipped mascarpone provided a decadent creaminess, while the unassuming honeycomb gave a delectable crunch and sweetness.

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.


The Marmalade Pantry
Anchorpoint Shopping Centre
Level One (Central Atrium)
370 Alexandra Road
Singapore 159953
Facebook
Instagram
Webiste
Nearest MRT: Queenstown (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Queenstown MRT station. Take Exit B or C. Walk to bus stop at Queenstown MRT station (Stop ID 11149). Take bus number 195. Alight 3 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

The Hainan Story Coffee House @ Nex - Opens First Coffee House Concept In Serangoon

The Hainan Story has launched its fourth location in the heartlands of Serangoon at NEX Shopping Mall. It is also their first-ever coffeehouse concept - The Hainan Story Coffee House that will serve a selection of new exclusive dishes alongside classic favourites.

Hainanese Ah Mai’s Chee Cheong Fun 4/5

The Hainanese Ah Mai's Chee Cheong Fun ($7.80) features smooth rice rolls drenched in a spicy, savoury blend of four sauces: chee cheong fun, rojak, green chilli as well as light soya sauce. It also comes with fishballs and crispy wanton.

Hainanese Pig’s Trotter Assam Curry Noodle 4/5

The Hainanese Pig's Trotter Assam Curry Noodle ($9.80) consists of tender pork trotter, fish cake, hard-boiled egg, and yellow noodles in a sour-spicy assam curry gravy. It has a tangy, full-bodied flavour with subtle spicy notes.

Childhood Fried Chicken Wing 3.8/5

The Childhood Fried Chicken Wing ($2.80/pc) boosts tender and juicy meat. They were pretty standard, though I wished the wings could be meatier.

Hae Bee Hiam Spaghetti 4.2/5

Another must-try dish is the Hae Bee Hiam Spaghetti with Hainanese Fried Pork Cutlet ($12.80). A fusion pasta for those who are a fan of the Hae Bee Hiam (Dried Shrimps Spicy Sambal), the flavour was pronounced and aromatic. The spice level was also intense enough to give that fiery kick.

Classic Pandan Waffles 4.2/5

Dessert options include the Classic Pandan Waffles (from $2.20), which can be paired with sweet toppings like gula melaka kaya, nutella, honey butter, and even savoury flavours like avocado egg mayo. We opted to go with the gula melaka kaya, which was not too sweet and had a delicious gula melaka fragrance. The waffle itself also has the perfect fluffiness with subtle pandan notes.

Words and photos by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Hainan Story Coffee House
Nex
23 Serangoon Central
#02-17
Singapore 556083
Tel: +65 97835757
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit B, E, G & H. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Griglia Open Fire Italian Kitchen @ Craig Road - Treat To The Tastes, Sensations And Emotions Of The Grigliata In A Casual Setting

Another new restaurant has opened in the vibrant Singapore F&B scene, bringing the traditions of Italian summer outdoor grill cook-out to Craig Road in a casual dine-in setting. The restaurant named Griglia is conceptualised by Chef Andrea De Paola and executed by Head Chef Federico Schiraldi, showcasing the culinary essence of grigliata.

Burratina 4/5

We started with a couple of appetisers, beginning with the Burratina ($16++). It is a modern take on the traditional Neapolitan appetiser. Thinly slices of marinated zucchini are served on a thin and crispy tart with a fresh burratina, garnished with herbs and olive oil.

Eggplant 4/5

The other appetiser we tried is the Eggplant ($15++), a lighter rendition of the Neapolitan parmigiana. The layers of grilled eggplants, tomato and basil, are tangy and succulent.

Hiika Squid 4.2/5

From the sea, we tried the Hiika Squid ($18++) and Hokkaido Scallops Crudo ($22++). Best showcasing how Italians like to combine different appetisers on a plate is the Hiika Squid. I like the pairing of the light nduja foam, complementing the savouriness of the smoked calamari.

Hokkaido Scallops Crudo 4.5/5

The other seafood item we had was the Hokkaido Scallop Crudo ($22++). The combination of scallop, corn and lemon is classic grigliata. I adored the sweetness from the caramelised corn, brightening the enjoyment of the briny and tangy scallops.

House-Made Pappardelle 4.8/5

Not to be missed at Griglia is their pasta dishes. The House-made Pappardelle ($20++) has a delightful texture bite, paired with tender pork jowl cooked over long hours in a rich Chianti reduction.

Spaghetti di Martino 4.2/5

Simple but yet deliciously good is the Spaghetti di Martino ($18++). I understand the Datterino tomatoes are brined in seawater from Italy to maintain the freshness of the produce. But, frankly, I can't taste the difference. The star goes to the tomatoes and tomato sauce, elevating the simplicity of the staple pasta dish in Italian cuisine.

Whole Spanish Turbot 3.8/5

A selection of beef, lamb, pork and fish on the menu highlights the open fire grill. We tried the Whole Spanish Turbot ($58++ 400grams/ $98++ 800grams) served with romaine lettuce and almalfi lemon dressing. Nothing fancy, just lightly seasoned with olive oil and sea salt, grilled over the open fire to showcase the natural flavour of the fresh wild-caught turbot from Spain.

Grass Fed Wagyu Striploin 4.5/5

The other mains we had is the Grass Fed Wagyu Striploin MBS 3/4 ($68++ 200 grams) served with pickled mustard, red wine jus, garlic sauce and pickled lettuce dressed with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. I don't feel any need for the condiments as the wagyu is already so flavoursome on its own. All you need is to sprinkle some sea salt to appreciate the tender and juicy striploin fully.

Potatoes Puree 4.5/5

An enticing selection of refreshing sides complements the main course. Some notable small plates include Gratinated Bone Marrow with rosemary and wild garlic crumbs, Cherry Tomatoes with cucumber, Olives and Rocket Salad and Potatoes Puree ($10++) with horseradish and smoked caciocavallo.

Capri in a Cake 4.2/5

We wrapped up the dinner on a sweet note with the Capri in a Cake ($12++). The classic limoncello caprese is served with Amalfi lemon cream and extra virgin olive oil ice cream.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Griglia Open Fire Italian Kitchen
37 Craig Road
Singapore 089675
Tel: +65 89497011
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Outram Park (EW Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours;
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Sat: 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road. Walk to Craig Road. Turn left and walk down Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit H. Walk to Duxton Plain Park. Turn right and walk to Neil Road. Cross the road using the underpass. Take the staircase and walk to Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Pint & Dine @ Kensington Square - New Cafe In Bartley Serving Korean Fusion Western Food With Soju Tower In A Fire Extinguisher

Cafe by day and bistro by night, Pint & Dine is a Korean Fusion Western Cafe that has recently opened within Kensington Square.

Seafood Ramyeon 3.5/5

We had their Seafood Ramyeon ($10). The warm and comforting bowl comes with noodles, squid, clams, mushroom and egg.

Kimchi Spaghetti 3.8/5

The Kimchi Spaghetti ($16) is creamy with generous servings of kimchi and bacon bits embedded within the pasta. It packs a delightful burst of tangy flavour from the kimchi, yet not too overpowering. Break the egg and stir in the yolk for a creamier mouthfeel.

Korean P&D Chicken Wings 3.5/5

Besides the mains, they also offer a variety of finger foods. Their Korean P&D Chicken Wings (6pcs/$12) are available in original, soy garlic or Yang Nyum. We opted for the soy garlic. The battered chicken has a crispy skin and tender meat, with a subtle soy garlic flavour.

Yakult Soju Tower 4/5

The Yakult Soju Tower ($28) comes in a 1.5L fire extinguisher where you can pump the drink out. While the interesting and instagrammable presentation caught our attention, the drink itself also stood out with a prominent taste of yakult and grape soju sweetness. You can't really taste too much of the alcohol, which is perfect for your non-alcoholic friends. The fire extinguisher tower is available for the Yuzu Milkis Soju and Conjinganmek Soju Tower as well.

Yuzu Soda 3.8/5

Besides coffee and tea, a non-alcoholic option is the Yuzu Soda ($5.50). This punchy drink is refreshing and bold with citrusy notes.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pint & Dine
Kensington Square
2 Jalan Lokam
#01-48
Singapore 537846
Tel: +65 88915928
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC Line, NE Line), Tai Seng (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 12pm - 1030pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tai Seng MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to bus stop at Tai Seng MRT station (Stop ID 70281). Take bus number 22, 24, 43, 58, 62, 70, 76 and 80. Alight 5 stops later. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop opposite Serangoon MRT (Stop ID 66359). Take bus 22, 43 and 70. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit H. Turn right and walk to bus stop at Serangoon MRT station (Stop ID 62131). Take bus 58. Walk to desintaion. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]