Haku Sushi @ Great World - Limited-Time 7-Course Bluefin Tuna Omakase At S$88 Per Person Available on 27 and 28 July Only

In the basement of Great World City, Japanese sister restaurants Kou Teppan and Haku Sushi are nestled side by side. Kou Teppan delights diners with teppanyaki-style omakase, while Haku Sushi specialises in kansai-style omakase.

To celebrate their 1st Anniversary, the restaurants launched an exclusive Hon Maguro (Bluefin Tuna) Omakase. For $88 per person, diners can choose from a 7-course Teppan or Sushi Omakase Menu, both featuring various parts of premium Hon Maguro from Wakayama. Initially available only on 20 and 21 July, this special omakase was extended to 27 and 28 July for lunch and dinner.

Also as part of the celebration, the restaurants have specially prepared for a live Tuna Cutting Show. The engaging show showcased the freshness of the Hon Maguro, and the chefs' skills. Due to overwhelming response, an additional show has been scheduled for lunch on 27 July. Diners can join the show at Kou Teppan before commencing lunch.

7-Course Sushi Omakase 4.2/5

After the Tuna Cutting Show, we settled comfortably in Haku Sushi for our 7-Course Sushi Omakase ($88/person). Diners will have the option to top up with Maguro Sashimi of 3 Kinds (akami, chutoro, and otoro) for $18 and a Kamatoro (prized tuna cheek meat) Handroll for $18.

Appetiser of 6 Kinds

We began with a vibrant plate of Appetiser of 6 Kinds. Each dish showcased maguro in different preparations, including Saikyo Cream Cheese with Shuto Maguro, Vinaigrette Miso Marinated Maguro, Nanban Maguro, Maguro Sansho Pepper Stew, Maguro Avocado Salad, and Maguro Carpaccio with Water Eggplant.

I appreciated the chefs' extra effort to showcase the maguro with varied flavours, such as the creamy and mildly buttery Maguro Avocado Salad and the tangy Vinaigrette Miso Marinated Maguro.

Maguro Sashimi

Next, we enjoyed a platter of Maguro Sashimi served in three cuts - akami, chutoro, and otoro. Each piece was incredibly fresh.

Maguro Patty with Mizore Sauce

I tried cooked negitoro in the Maguro Patty with Mizore Sauce for the first time. The negitoro was shaped into a ball and served in a savoury-sweet sauce, which tasted quite homely.

Maguro Katsu with Charcoal Salt

We then observed the chefs slice the Maguro Katsu, revealing a lovely pink centre. The katsu had a thin fried exterior and was served rare, using the otoro cut for a rich, fatty mouthfeel.

Maguro Nigiri of 5 Kinds

The Maguro Nigiri course followed, featuring five kinds of maguro cuts, each with a unique topping.

Despite the restaurant being bustling with diners, the quality of each piece of nigiri was executed well, with nicely thick cuts.

The nigiri we enjoyed included Otoro with Sea Grapes, Chutoro with Sea Urchin, and Akami with Wasabi.

Soup

The Soup course was a light, dashi-based broth with Maguro and Japanese Leek, which was average.

Negitoro Ice Cream

Dessert was a surprising twist, incorporating tuna. The Negitoro Ice Cream featured a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with negitoro and a side of brown sugar syrup. While the concept was intriguing, I wasn't a fan of this combination as it didn't come together harmoniously.

Due to the restaurant being fully booked for this special omakase menu, the service for each course took a bit longer. Nonetheless, we found the omakase to be competitively priced for the quality and variety offered. Diners can also complete the omakase with a selection of curated alcohol from Tokushima. The special promotion offers each glass for $3.80 or by the bottle at 38% off on varying prices. Reservations for this special omakase menu are filling up quickly. To book a slot, visit their official booking website here: https://bit.ly/kouhakusg.

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.


Haku Sushi
Great World
B1-135
1 Kim Seng Promenade
Singapore 237994
Tel: +65 6235 1645
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Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 6. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Toku Nori @ Telok Ayer Street - Reinventing Handrolls with Their Own Special, Modern and Unique Take

Toku Nori, a new Japanese restaurant, is nestled on the second and third storeys of a pre-war heritage shophouse along Telok Ayer Street. The name "Toku (特)" translates to "special" in Japanese, and true to its name, Toku Nori is reinventing handrolls with its unique touch. The 40-seater sushi bar counter dining space infuses traditional design elements of a Japanese handroll bar with contemporary aesthetics, offering an inviting ambience for a memorable dining experience.

Handroll: Hotate Roll 4/5

We began our dinner with a selection of handrolls, each crafted by the chef right before our eyes at the sushi bar counter, served and timed to individual pace. The Hotate Roll ($9), paired with yuzu koshi, lime, and chives, was a delightful start. The premium-grade japonica pearl rice, Koshihikari, provided a sublime balance of moisture, stickiness, and subtle sweetness that complemented the scallop's natural sweetness. The yuzu koshi and lime pairing heightened the overall flavour profile, making each bite a refreshing experience.

Handroll: Maguro Roll 4/5

Next, we had the Maguro Roll ($8), featuring smoked onion cream, crispy shallots, and melt-in-the-mouth maguro. The combination of flavours and textures worked harmoniously, offering a delightful textural enjoyment that left us craving more.

Handroll: Engawa Roll 4/5

The Engawa Roll ($9.5) was another highlight, aburi for a touch of smokiness before being wrapped into a roll with shiro miso and roast garlic. The slight char from the aburi added a depth of flavour that elevated the delicate engawa.

Premium Roll: Foie Gras Roll 4.2/5

For a more luxurious experience, we opted for the Foie Gras Roll ($16). The creamy foie gras, given a kiss of fire from the torch, was paired with a garlic soy glaze and spicy leek, resulting in an explosion of flavours that was both rich and satisfying.

Premium Roll: Wagyu & Uni Roll 4.5/5

The Wagyu & Uni Roll ($16) comprised of wagyu karubi, Hokkaido sea urchin, and caviar. This luxurious combination of fatty, melt-in-the-mouth wagyu, the sweetness of uni, and the umami from the caviar created a heavenly flavour profile that left us wanting more.

Izakaya Platter

Kakuni Pork Belly, Aburi Salmon Crispy Sushi, Maguro Popper, Chicken Rib 4.5/5

In addition to the sushi rolls, Toku Nori offers a selection of izakaya items. We sampled the Kakuni Pork Belly ($14/2pc), Aburi Salmon Crispy Sushi ($16/3pc), Maguro Popper ($12/3pc), and Chicken Ribs ($14). Each item was well executed, delicious, and perfectly complemented with alcohol, making them ideal for a casual night out.

Wagyu Sando 4/5

The Wagyu Sando was another standout dish. The rich, buttery wagyu was sandwiched between lightly toasted, golden brown bread. The exceptionally tender wagyu and the slight crunch of the bread created a delightful mouthfeel that was both satisfying and memorable.

Sakura Matcha Latte, Yuzu Matcha, Housemade Warabi Mochi 4.2/5

To wrap up our meal, we enjoyed the Housemade Warabi Mochi ($12), which was airy and soft, presented in three different flavours: kinoko, goma, and matcha. For matcha lovers, we had the Sakura Matcha Latte and Yuzu Matcha, both of which used ceremonial-grade premium tsuki matcha, offering a perfect balance of flavours to end our meal on a high note.

Toku Nori is a gem in the heart of Telok Ayer Street, offering a unique and modern take on traditional Japanese handrolls. Its inviting ambience, attentive service, and innovative menu make it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the delicate art of sushi and handrolls. Toku Nori promises an exceptional dining experience that will leave you coming back for more.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Toku Nori
200A Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068638
Tel: +65 8082 6536
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1145am - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left and walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

LUCE @ InterContinental Singapore - New Champagne Sunday Brunch That Celebrates The Concept of "Familglia"

LUCE at InterContinental Singapore introduces a refreshing Italian dining experience under the newly appointed Chef de Cuisine, Andrea Rossi. With over two decades of experience in esteemed kitchens, Chef Andrea has curated a luxurious buffet spread and an à la carte menu that celebrates the concept of "famiglia" (family), bringing hearty dishes that foster meaningful conversations and togetherness.

Seafood on Ice 5/5

Starting the Sunday brunch, the Seafood on Ice selection is unparalleled, featuring seasonal live oysters, Boston lobster, snow crab, black mussels, Australian yabby, tiger prawns, and sea whelk.

Sushi & Sashimi 5/5

The brunch also includes a stunning display of premium Sashimi and Sushi, showcasing the freshest catches.

Beef Pastrami and Provolone Cheese Croissant 3.8/5

House-cured Salmon Platter with Assorted Blinis 4/5

Artisanal Farmer Pork Terrine 4.8/5

One of LUCE's highlights is the Charcuterie Room, featuring an impressive Cold Cuts Station with Italian cured meats and an extensive Artisanal Cheese Selection. Notable cheeses include Taleggio, Gorgonzola Dolce, Provolone Piccante, Pecorino Toscano al Tartufo, and Ubriaco Al Whiskey. Thoughtful condiments and spreads like caramelized onions and fig jam complement the cold cuts beautifully. In the same room, Appetizers shine with the House-cured Salmon Platter with Assorted Blinis, enjoyed with Egg Mimosa and Crème Fraiche, and the Artisanal Farmer Pork Terrine, which pairs excellently with fig jam and caramelized onions.

Pinsas 4.5/5

LUCE's Roman-style Pinsas are a must-try, with eight selections available. Hand-stretched and served hot from the woodfire oven, they range from the classic La Margherita Classica and La Parmigiana to the Northern Emilia-Romagna inspired La Tartufata and La Mortadella.

Girelle di Pasta al Forno Emiliana 5/5

Fettuccine Truffle Alfredo 4.5/5

The curation of pasta dishes will satisfy all paste lovers. From the Emilia-Romagna region, there is a baked pasta dish - Girelle di Pasta al Forno Emiliana. The texture of the pasta was on point, delectable with a stuffing of ricotta and mascarpone cheese, green asparagus, and brown butter. Spaghetti di Gragnano alla Bolognese is a rustic and homely dish featuring spaghetti coated in savoury beef sauce. Do leave space for Fettuccine Truffle Alfredo, fresh pasta cooked ala minute in a Parmesan wheel, complemented by Truffle Cream Espuma or Roman Carbonara Espuma.

Assorted Meats 4.5/5

Live Stations are where you find savoury and succulent meats catering to all palates - Pollo Ripieno, a Tuscan-style rice-stuffed roasted chicken served with Nocellara olives, wild mushrooms and chicken jus. The Porchetta di Manzo e Salsa Verde is slow-cooked to achieve tender beef slices served with zesty salsa verde and potato fondant. Agnello al Forno is a roasted herb-marinated Lamb Saddle paired with Yorkshire Pudding.

Il Salmone al Vapore 4/5

Le Costine di Maiale in Umido 4/5

Le Mascagnine di Carne in Umido 4/5

La Salsiccia e Purea di Patata 4.5/5

Other Italian Specialties are aplenty too. Le Mascagnine di Carne in Umido is a flavourful handmade meatball in fresh tomato marinara. Le Costine di Maiale in Umido is an interesting dish that is new to me - Braised Pork Baby Ribs with Wild Mushroom and Red Wine Reduction. Dishes of more familiar flavours include La Salsiccia e Purea di Patata - Roasted Italian Sausage with Mashed Potato and Il Salmone al Vapore, a steamed Norwegian Salmon that is citrusy with Fennel, Dill and Sauce Vierge.

Lotus Leaf Wrapped Glutinous Rice 4/5

Dim Sum 3.5/5

The Asian selections were better than expected. Not only do you get to enjoy the hotel's Signature Prawn Noodle Soup, there are local delights such as Fried Seafood Hokkien Mee, Lotus Leaf Wrapped Glutinous Rice with Chinese Cured Meat, and Dim Sum Selection offering Pork Siew Mai with Crab Roe Spinach and Chicken Crystal Ball.

Banana Pound Cake 4.5/5

Dessert 4/5

The Dessert Station is the perfect end to the brunch. It offers a variety of sweets, including a Chocolate Fountain, Gelatos, Mini cakes, and Tarts. The Banana Pound Cake, made with caramelized banana, peanut butter, and buttercream, stands out as an indulgent highlight.

The Champagne Sunday Brunch is available every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm. Prices start from SGD38++ for children aged 3 to 5, SGD68++ aged 6 to 11, and SGD118++ per adult (includes free-flow soft drinks, juices, coffee and tea), SGD158++ (includes free-flow Prosecco, Peroni Beer and soft drinks) and SGD178++ per adult (includes free-flow Champagne or Italian Franciacorta, Aperol Spritz and selected cocktails and wines).

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.


LUCE
InterContinental Singapore
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 6825 1008
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch: 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm (Monday to Saturday; last order at 2:00pm)
Dinner: 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm (Daily; last order at 9:30pm)

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

Chara Brasserie @ Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre - Mediterranean-Asian Buffet with 4 Rotating Menus

Chara Brasserie is an all-day dining restaurant of the new Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre. Offering a Mediterranean Asian theme buffet, the menu lineup took on inspiration from different countries each day of the week. There are four menus in rotation each week. Be enticed by more than 100 varieties, from classic flavours to modern takes on familiar dishes.

Australian Angus Beef Prime Rib 3.8/5

Seabass 4.5/5

Spice Marinated Whole Baby Lamb Rotisserie 4.5/5

On Friday and Saturday, the Live Rotisserie Station will be fully charged with beautifully roasted meats. As the theme is Mediterranean and Asia Pacific, lamb rotisseries and roast carving stations will take centre stage. The star of this station is the Spice Marinated Whole Baby Lamb Rotisserie (for dinner), alongside other hearty roasts such as Australian Angus Beef Prime Rib and Roasted Chicken.

DIY Chicken Kebab 3/5

There is also an interactive DIY Kebab Station that lets you put together your own kebab. Although the chicken was a tad dry, the creamy hummus made up for the texture.

Seafood on Ice 4.5/5

The Seafood on Ice station brimmed with chilled clams, poached sea prawns, mussels, flower crabs, lobsters, crayfish, and oysters. The oysters were quite exceptional, and a variety of sauces complemented them.

Japanese Okonomiyaki 4.5/5

Korean Tteobokki 3/5

One standout dish from the buffet is the Japanese Okonomiyaki. It's a delightful blend of shredded cabbage, dough, whole egg, and oysters, resulting in a light and satisfying texture. The final touch of sauce and mayonnaise binds the savoury ingredients together with a contrasting sweet and creamy flavour. I reckoned the Korean Tteobokki needed a bit more sauce.

Sashimi 3.8/5

I appreciate the individually plated Sashimi from the Japanese station. You can also find aburi chirashi dons with free-flowing ikura, ebiko, and tobiko.

Chilli Crab 4/5

Black Pepper Crayfish 4/5

Local favourites and flavours are included as well. Both Black Pepper Crayfish and Chilli Crab were being snapped up really fast. Kung Po Smoked Chilli Prawns were an interesting rendition.

Prata Puff and Dahl Curry 4/5

Hand - Skewered Ariff Satay 4/5

Although the Prata Puff and Dahl Curry were a tad oily, they were exceptionally moreish. For the hand-skewered Ariff Satay, I suggest enjoying it early in your meal as they are limited in numbers.

Assorted Kuehs 4.5/5

The Dessert Station was decadent, with a wide range of Nyonya kueh, mini tarts, cupcakes, mini cakes, puddings, and even waffles, served with soft-serve gelato. I tried every single kueh, and they were really delicious!

To celebrate its grand launch, Chara Brasserie is offering an opening special of 25% off the prices of its buffet menu, valid daily until 31 May 2024

Chara Brasserie Buffet Lineup - Flavours From Across the World Four Rotating Menus.
Monday and Tuesday - Flavours of the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia, with the hot stations firing up to cook seafood - focused specialties.
Wednesday and Thursday - Mediterranean with Japanese flair
Friday and Saturday - Mediterranean and Asia Pacific, with lamb rotisseries and roast carving stations set up.
Sunday - An international Mediterranean buffet serving up all three menus from across the week.

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.


Chara Brasserie
Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre
8 Club Street
#02 - 01
Singapore 069472
Tel: +65 8826 8585
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Breakfast: 6.30am -10.30am
Lunch: 11.30am to 3pm
Dinner: 6pm to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to Mohd Ali Lane. Walk down Mohd Ali Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]