Origin Grill @ Shangri-La Singapore - Redefining Sunday Brunch with Elevated Brunch Classics

Origin Grill at Shangri-La Singapore has recently launched a brand new Sunday brunch experience. The hearty brunch affair includes unlimited servings of small plates, featuring an array of exclusively crafted appetisers and elevated brunch classics alongside Josper Grill creations for the mains.

If you are in the mood for a boozy brunch, add on the free-flow beverage package ($88++ per person), which includes the curated Kir Royale with champagne and house-made liqueur infused with a variety of fruits and florals. There is also a choice of Veuve Clicquot champagne from Australia, Shaw & Smith Chardonnay, Mitoloa Jester Shiraz and a selection of spirits. We had a Chrysanthemum & Honey Royal and Raspberry & Grapefruit Royal.

Origin Healthy Bowl 4/5

Origin Healthy Bowl is one of my favourite dishes. Seasoned with salt and olive oil, I like the earthiness of the Organic Kale, which also offers a very pliable texture. The salad had a tasty blend of textures and flavours with creamy avocado cubes, crunchy broccolini and crisp baby radish alongside nutty Spice Seed crumbs. The slices of pickled onions complemented the overall flavour with a hint of acidity.

Seabass Ceviche 2.5/5

Seabass Ceviche has an Asian-inspired flair to its flavour profile - Coconut Cream, Chilli, Coriander, and Mango Salsa. The ceviche lacked a much-needed zest and acidity, especially when the Mango Salsa leaned towards the sweeter side.

Pork Rillette 4.8/5

Pork Rillette is a winner with unctuous and well-seasoned Pork Rillette, served with apple salad and grilled walnut bread. The bread itself had a nutty profile, which complemented the creamy spread.

Josper Grilled Butter Lettuce 3.5/5

Josper Grilled Butter Lettuce presents a luxurious take on caesar salad. Generously coated with caesar dressing, the butter lettuce was creamy with a subtle smokiness from the grill that lingered on my palate. Finished off with a lavish sprinkle of shaved parmesan, strips of crisp bacon and anchovy fillets, every bite into the lettuce was a morish experience.

Foie Gras Toast 3/5

Foie Gras Toast is a dainty bite offering Foie Gras on grilled brioche loaf, complemented with pear chutney.

Sweetcorn Soup 4/5

Sweetcorn Soup had a thick consistency, topped with spanner crabmeat and popcorn crumb. I immensely enjoyed its intense corn sweetness. A crack of black pepper would have been perfect.

Truffle Mac and Cheese Macaroni 4.5/5

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Waffle 4.5/5

Truffle Mac & Cheese Macaroni and Buttermilk Fried Chicken Waffle are decadent small plates that might tempt you to forsake your mains! The Truffle Mac & Cheese Macaroni featured just the right amount of Gruyere Bechamel, creating a desirable gooeyness that coated the macaroni. Topped with maple syrup and chipotle hollandaise, the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Waffle had a moreish combination of savoury-sweet flavours with a hint of heat. The waffle, fluffy with a crisp exterior, paired excellently with the crispy bacon and fried chicken. While the chicken could have been meatier and more tender, the crispy bacon in all the dishes was exceptionally tasty without being overly salty.

Avocado Benedict 3.5/5

Four Egg Benedict options are available, including Classic Egg Benedict. Avocado Benedict was wholesome and tasty, with a base made with avocado and edamame, topped with poached egg and a touch of lime zest. However, the consistency of the poached egg, like the other egg benedict we had, was an issue. They were more like soft-boiled eggs with watery egg whites, which dampened the dish.

Crab Cake Benedict 3/5

Crab Cake Benedict is a must-try with Origin Crab Cake with Bisque Hollandaise. The sauce complemented the crusty crab cake; it was a pity that the portion underneath the egg was slightly soggy due to the watery egg white.

Lobster Benedict 3.5/5

With an additional $22, you get a luxurious Lobster Benedict - Grilled Sourdough, ½ Butter Poached Boston Lobster Tail on grilled sourdough toast, alongside Sautéed Kale and Crispy Bacon, dressed with Bisque Hollandaise. The lobster tail was succulent, while the bacon gave the dish a delightful texture and savoury notes.

Confit Duck Leg 2.8/5

From the Big Plates, we ordered a Confit Duck Leg featuring Hudson Valley Duck Leg with Foie Gras Jus, served with Duck Fat Fries. While the flavour was all right, we found it a tad salty.

Yukimuro Snow-Aged Wagyu A4 Striploin 3.5/5

While the Big Plates also offers a classic Steak and Egg, we were recommended the Yukimuro Snow-Aged Wagyu A4 Striploin (100g Additional $86) from their Origin Signature Beef Cuts, served with Chimichurri. The Josper grilled steak had a rich flavour enhanced by the smokiness from the grill but was let down by the execution. The doneness of the steak could be more even.

Tarte Tatin 4.8/5

Tarte Tatin was aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable for desserts with a caramelised Sweet Apple Tuille paired with whipped mascarpone, Honey Croissant and Honeycomb for texture. The creamy and milky whipped mascarpone combined the elements into one decadent bite.

66% Chocolate Flan 4/5

For chocolate lovers, this 66% Chocolate Flan is a must. The Pecan Cacao Nib Praline gave it a nutty flavour, and the Vanilla Gelato added to the velvety texture of the flan.

Sunday Brunch at Origin Grill is available at $98++ per person every Sunday, from 11:30am to 2:30pm.

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.


Origin Grill & Bar
Shangri La Singapore Hotel
Lobby Level Tower Wing
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel:+65 62134595
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon)
Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes. [Map]

Wagyu X @ Club Street - Serving A Hokkaido Special Wagyu Crossbreed Not Commonly Found Outside Japan

At Wagyu X, a recently opened Japanese steakhouse on Club Street, Chef Masahiro Takada showcases a rare Hokkaido special wagyu crossbreed, a delicacy not often found outside Japan. This particular breed is celebrated for its exceptional balance, offering both the melt-in-your-mouth texture of Wagyu and the rich, beefy juiciness reminiscent of Angus beef.

Vinaigrette Cherry Tomatoes and Seaweed 3/5

The dining experience kicks off with a delightful Amuse Bouche - Vinaigrette Cherry Tomatoes and Seaweed, adorned with luscious Ikura pearls. This appetizer expertly whets the appetite for the dinner ahead.

Corn Mousse with Uni 4/5

The spotlight at Wagyu X remains firmly on the beef. While the restaurant prides itself on its exquisite cuts of Hokkaido special Wagyu crossbreed, it also boasts a well-curated selection of seasonal appetizers to complement the star of the show. The Corn Mousse with Uni ($30) is a silky revelation. The dish offers a mouthful of corn mousse, tantalizing the palate with the delightful popping pearls of salmon Ikura. The crowning touch of Bafun Uni adds a burst of flavour, resulting in an explosion of taste that sets the tone for what's to come.

Hokkaido Scallop 4.5/5

A Hokkaido Scallop ($26) creation further excites the senses. This dish takes sashimi-grade whole medallions of scallops and bakes them in a flavoured butter infusion. Accompanied by a housemade capsicum puree, it elevates the sweet creaminess of the scallop to another level.

Wagyu X Ribeye 4.8/5

Onto the main attraction, the Wagyu X itself, which comes in three iterations - Wagyu X Sirloin (500g $160, 1kg $300), Wagyu X Ribeye (500g $125, 1kg $240), and Wagyu X Tenderloin (250g $120, 500g $230). We started our carnivorous adventure with the Wagyu X Ribeye. Each slice is thoughtfully seasoned with a gentle sprinkle of salt, allowing the bold natural flavour and texture of the meat to shine. The ribeye boasts an ideal balance of lean meat and fats. Grilled to perfection, it presents a delightful charred edge, with the fats, after grilling, exuding a tantalizing aroma.

Wagyu X Sirloin 4.5/5

For those who prefer a more substantial bite, the Wagyu X Sirloin will be a suitable choice. This cut offers a bolder and more intense flavour than the ribeye, ensuring a satisfying indulgence for meat lovers.

Cream Spinach 4/5

Matsutake Fries 3/5

Roasted Japanese Pumpkin with Walnut 4.2/5

To round off the dining experience, diners can complement their steak with an array of tantalising sides. The Creamed Spinach ($12), sautéed in garlic, the Matsutake Fries ($12), and the Roasted Japanese Pumpkin with Walnut ($12) are excellent choices. Personally, I found the Roasted Japanese Pumpkin with Walnut to be a standout. This dish features sweet and tender pumpkin complemented by candied walnuts, adding a delightful nutty dimension.

Tiramisu 4.2/5

For dessert, the house speciality is the Tiramisu ($18). It's created from the same recipe as Chef Masa's sister restaurant, Ristorante Takada. This deconstructed masterpiece allows diners to savour the individual ingredients or enjoy them as a harmonious whole. What sets this tiramisu apart is the preparation of the ladyfingers. Instead of soaking them in coffee liqueur beforehand, they are quickly dipped upon order, resulting in a tiramisu with a delightful crunch, a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Burnt Cheesecake with Ice Cream 4/5

Alternatively, those with a sweet tooth can opt for the Burnt Cheesecake with Matcha Affogato ($24). This rich cheesecake is a delightful conclusion to the meal, especially when paired with a cold serving of vanilla ice cream and matcha sauce.

For busy executives in the CBD, Wagyu X offers a 3-Course Set Lunch Menu starting at $38++. This set menu includes a starter, main, and dessert, providing a quick yet savoury lunch option while allowing diners to experience the unique flavour of the Wagyu crossbreed. Wagyu X at Club Street indeed offers a rare and satisfying journey into the world of exquisite beef dining.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


    

SIRI House @ Dempsey Hill @ Bubbles & BBQ Experience amidst The Lush Greenery of Dempsey Hill

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Dempsey Hill, Siri House presents an enchanting open-air dining escapade known as Bubbles & BBQ. Tailored for groups of 12 or more, this opulent garden soiree showcases a live BBQ station brimming with contemporary Asian BBQ delicacies. To elevate the experience, guests have the option to bedeck their tables with exquisite tropical adornments courtesy of Estilo & Co. These include hanging, table, and buffet floral centrepieces that infuse a touch of nature's elegance. And for a bit of effervescence, a champagne bar cart awaits, where patrons can concoct their own bubbly elixirs using fresh fruit, citrus, herbs, and liqueurs.

Siri House’s Bubbles & BBQ Private Dining Experience unfolds in three captivating packages:

1. Standard Package: Priced at $128++ or $148++ per person, this package entitles you to savour the live BBQ station's offerings, relish the buffet spread, and dine amidst a basic table setup.

2. Tropical Chic Package: For $208++ or $228++ per person, this package embraces the live BBQ station, the sumptuous buffet, and the enchantment of a stunning tropical table setup bedecked with captivating floral centrepieces by Estilo & Co.

3. Champagne Trolley Add-on: Available for $108++ per person, this add-on enriches your experience with 2 hours of free-flowing Champagne accompanied by delightful accompaniments.

Apple Coleslaw 4.5/5

Diving into the delectable spread, We commenced with the Apple Coleslaw, a delightful blend of red and white cabbage, mesclun, green apple, raisins, cashews, and house-pickled carrots. The addition of house-pickled carrots provides a tantalizing textural contrast.

Arugula Beet Salad 4/5

Another vibrant salad, the Arugula Beet Salad, combines arugula, pickled beetroot, pomelo, feta, and pistachios, elevated by a zesty dressing comprising yuzu kosho, yuzu juice, lime juice, and olive oil.

Nori Potatoes 4.8/5

The Nori Potatoes are a delightful treat, featuring cut potatoes blanched and deep-fried, then elevated with a dash of nori seaweed butter. The result? Fluffy and utterly addictive potato bites.

Nuoc Cham Street Corn 4/5

Grilled yellow Corn is impeccably dressed in Siri House's rendition of Nuoc Cham, featuring minced grilled spring onions, shallots, ginger, garlic, coriander, fish sauce, and lime juice, all perfectly punctuated with a drizzle of hot oil. This dish delivers sweet corn with a delightful hint of spiciness.

Mushroom Risotto 4.5/5

Japanese rice takes on a whole new dimension in the Mushroom Risotto, infused with a blend of burnt onion dashi and burnt mushroom puree. The dish is beautifully seasoned with the essence of burnt nori, creating a comforting and flavorful rice experience.

Green Curry Baked Mussels 4.2/5

The Mussels are bathed in a flavorful paste crafted from green chilli, coriander, lemongrass, holy basil, coconut milk, and coconut cream, with a rich finish of garlic butter. It's a Thai-inspired delight that marries beautifully with the plump mussels.

Sambal Grilled Barramundi 5/5

The Barramundi takes centre stage, adorned with a fiery sambal paste crafted from red chilli, shallots, garlic, lemongrass, galangal, and dried shrimp. Slow-cooked and nestled in banana leaves before grilling, it's a triumph of flavours. The sambal sauce deserves special mention—it's so good that it could easily outshine our local sambal stingray.

Duroc Pork Collar 4.2/5

The succulent Pork Collar is marinated in a tantalising blend of hoisin, fish sauce, ginger, garlic, shallots, coriander, chilli, cardamom, and brown sugar, then sous-vide cooked and expertly grilled. The result is a hint of smokiness with the perfect ratio of lean and fats.

Petite Tender 4.2/5

The Petite Tender Steak takes a journey through sous-vide cooking in olive oil, garlic, shallots, thyme, and tarragon before grilling. The finishing touch comes in the form of a housemade kombu aioli, where garlic aioli is artfully blended with charred onion puree, kombu, and lemon juice. This pairing elevates the tender beef to a mouthwatering

Tarts 4/5

To conclude your culinary voyage, indulge in two delightful Tarts. The first is crowned with chocolate ganache and adorned with seasonal fruits, while the second is generously filled with housemade passionfruit curd, leaving a sweet and tangy impression.

The enchanting experience is open for bookings for groups of 12 or more, from Tuesdays to Sundays, between 11:30 am and 8:00 pm. To make a reservation, you can email reservations.sg@sirihouse.com or book online via www.sirihouse.com/private-dining. A minimum of 7 days' advance notice is required to confirm date availability, and menu pre-orders are necessary 5 days ahead.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Siri House
Dempsey Hill
8D Dempsey Road
#01-02
Singapore 249672
Tel: +65 96670533
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Sun: 1130am - 4pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop opposite Singapore Botanic Gardens (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Walk up to Dempsey Hill. Walk right to the back of the cluster. Walk to destination. Journey time 12 minutes. [Map]

Brasserie Astoria @ Victoria Theater & Concert Hall - Bringing a Touch of Sweden's Grand Dining Halls to Singapore

Brasserie Astoria, nestled within the iconic Victoria Theater & Concert Hall, brings a touch of Sweden's grand dining halls to Singapore. Here, Chef Frantzén adds his unique twist to classic brasserie dishes, all served with flair, from tableside service to flambé trolleys.

Spanish Ham 4.2/5

The Spanish Ham ($21) heralded the beginning of our dining experience, pairing the full-flavoured Spanish ham with fragrant Charentais melon from Philibon. Pine nuts and espelette pepper added a delightful crunch and complexity to this classic combination.

Calamares Fritos 4.2/5

Calamares Fritos ($14) arrived next, encased in a light, crispy batter that promised a satisfying textural bite. Served with Galangal aioli, this dish offered a delightful interplay of flavours.

Garlic Bread a la Astoria 4.5/5

The Garlic Bread a la Astoria ($10) was no ordinary garlic bread. Sourdough baguette toasted in browned butter, shiro miso, parmesan, yuzu, roasted garlic, and herbs elevated this simple dish to a complex yet utterly delicious masterpiece.

Crudites 3.5/5

The Crudites ($17) with ranch dressing defied expectations. The vegetables were presented on ice to retain their freshness and were remarkably sweet and delicious — a surprising conversion for any non-vegetarian.

Butter Fried Råraka 4/5

The Butter Fried Råraka ($36), a Swedish classic akin to Swiss Rösti, delighted with its crispy, buttery texture. Best savoured with vendace roe, chives, creme fraiche, and red onion — each element complementing the other.

Toasted Astoria 4.5/5

The Toasted Astoria ($32) showcased a medley of prawns, Norwegian king crab, trout roe, wasabi aioli, and pickled red onion atop butter-fried toast. The seafood symphony harmonized beautifully, creating a delectable masterpiece.

Kebab Pizza 4/5

Kebab Pizza ($35) with duck confit, harissa yoghurt, and pickled jalapeno was a thoughtful combination of flavours that exploded with taste. The fluffy pizza dough provided the perfect canvas.

Whisky Flambeed Beef (Angus) 4.5/5

The Whisky Flambéed Angus Beef ($68) was a tableside spectacle. A perfectly cooked steak, tender and juicy, flambéed to perfection and served with kampot and green pepper sauce. It was a true delight for any beef lover, accompanied by roasted potatoes glazed with Fourme d' Ambert.

Linguine a la Astoria 4.5/5

Linguine a la Astoria ($56) was a revelation, bursting with flavours from melted garlic, parmesan, and fine herbs infused perfectly with the cooked pasta, paired with clams and bafun uni creating a symphony of taste.

The Waffle Ice Cream 4.2/5

The Waffle Ice Cream ($20) sandwiched between pistachio waffles was a delightful dessert. Oolong ice cream, with its tea aroma paired perfectly with raspberry sauce, all served in a heart-shaped waffle that melted hearts with its thoughtfulness and sweetness.

Petite Four

Lastly, the Petite Four Trolley offered an array of sweet, bite-sized confectionery priced at $4 each. My favourites included the Macaron, Kardemumma Bulle, and Canele, providing a sweet conclusion to our dinner experience.

At Brasserie Astoria, classic brasserie fare is elevated to an art form, making every visit a memorable dining experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Brasserie Astoria
11 Empress Place 
#01-01
Singapore 179558
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1145am - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles MRT station. Take Exit H. Walk towards the riverbank. Cross the bridge and walk to Empress Place road. Walk down Empress Place road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]