Tampopo @ Takashimaya - Showcases Niigata’s Premium Produce in Limited-Time Seasonal Menu

A household name in Singapore’s Japanese dining scene, Tampopo has long been instrumental in making authentic Japanese cuisine accessible, consistent, and affordable. Founded by Takagi Takaaki, the brand continues to honour its philosophy of working closely with Japanese producers. This season, Tampopo spotlights the bounty of Niigata Prefecture with a limited-time menu that highlights premium ingredients flown in from the region.

A key highlight is the introduction of Niigata-grown “Shinnosuke” rice, a relatively new varietal that inherits the prized genetics of Koshihikari while offering its own distinct character. With a higher amylose content, the rice delivers a gentle sweetness, fuller flavour, and a firm, springy bite. Cultivated using pristine snowmelt water and benefiting from Niigata’s dramatic temperature shifts, each grain is glossy, aromatic, and refined.

Niigata Umaimon Gozen 4/5

The Niigata Umaimon Gozen ($35.80) is the best way to experience “Shinnosuke” rice in its purest form. This well-balanced set comes complete with sashimi, grilled fish, vegetables, and soup, allowing the rice to shine as the centrepiece. Its texture pairs beautifully with the accompanying dishes, elevating the overall dining experience.

Tampopo’s Chirashi Sushi 3.8/5

Amaebi Shinjyo with Lotus 3.8/5

The menu also features the prized Oguchi Lotus root from Nagaoka City, known for its exceptional crunch and tenderness. Harvested using the meticulous mizuhori method, the lotus root retains its clean, crisp texture without excess fibrousness.

This premium ingredient appears in Tampopo’s Chirashi Sushi ($29.80), adding a refreshing bite, and in the Amaebi Shinjyo with Lotus ($12.80), where it is stuffed with sweet shrimp paste and deep-fried into a delicate tempura. The contrast between the crunchy lotus root and the creamy amaebi filling creates an enjoyable textural interplay.

Niigata Soul Food “Noppe” 3.5/5

A comforting traditional dish, “Noppe” is a celebratory stew deeply rooted in Niigata’s culinary heritage. The hearty bowl features a medley of ingredients, including lotus root, mushrooms, salmon, chicken, satoimo, and kamaboko, simmered in a light yet umami-rich dashi broth enhanced with dried scallops and mushrooms. It is wholesome, nourishing, and quietly satisfying.

Tampopo’s Hegi Soba with Prawn Tempura (tasting portion) 4.2/5

A rare find in Singapore, Hegi Soba is a regional speciality from Niigata’s Uonuma region. Made using funori seaweed as a binder, the noodles boast a firmer, more elastic texture with a subtle smoothness. At Tampopo, the Hegi Soba with Prawn Tempura ($19.80) features lightly battered prawns fried to a crisp golden finish. The tempura adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, springy noodles. Dipped into the accompanying sauce, each bite balances delicate soba flavours with the savoury richness of the tempura.

Tagliatelle with Amaebi

A standout collaboration dish with THE NIIGATA Bit GINZA, the Handmade Rice-Flour Tagliatelle with Amaebi ($27.80) bridges Japanese ingredients with Italian technique. The sauce is laboriously prepared using 20kg of amaebi shells and flesh, simmered for hours to extract maximum flavour, then flambéed with brandy. Sourced from Sado Island, the amaebi is prized for its natural sweetness and creamy texture, often dubbed the “candy of the sea.” The resulting dish is deeply umami-rich, with a robust crustacean intensity that will resonate strongly with local palates.

Niigata Matcha Parfait 4.5/5

End the meal on a sweet note with the Niigata Matcha Parfait ($11.80), made using Murakami matcha from Fujimien. The matcha is notably smooth with minimal bitterness, offering a refined finish. Alternatively, the Niigata Strawberry Parfait features the region’s prized Echigo-hime strawberries, known for their sweetness and fragrance.

Tampopo’s Niigata showcase is more than just a seasonal menu. It is a thoughtful tribute to the region’s rich agricultural and culinary heritage. By bringing together premium ingredients, traditional techniques, and creative collaborations, the experience offers diners a rare glimpse into the essence of Niigata, right here in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tampopo
Takashimaya
Tower B
391 Orchard Road
#B2-33
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 6235 2318
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 845pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight to Ngee Ann City. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Fiamma @ Capella Singapore - A Celebration of Italian Family Cuisine Rooted In Heritage and Crafted With Passion

Nestled within the lush grounds of Capella Singapore, Fiamma is a heartfelt tribute to the warmth and generosity of Italian cuisine. In this place, the flame's glow brings people together in moments of celebration. The kitchen is helmed by Executive Sous Chef Antonio Corsaro, whose Neapolitan heritage shapes every creation, and the table comes alive with flamboyantly colourful dishes that highlight the natural beauty and freshness of seasonal ingredients. From richly hued sauces to hand-finished plates, his dishes are as pretty to look at as they are delicious to eat.

Bread Basket

For our dinner, we savoured an elaborate, curated selection of dishes from Fiamma's festive menus and seasonal à la carte menu, a showcase of the range of their culinary artistry. We started with the bread basket and two beautifully plated antipasti, each bursting with colour and intricate plating.

Carpaccio di verdure e frutti invernali 4.5/5

The Carpaccio di verdure e frutti invernali was a medley of finely sliced Italian winter fruits and vegetables, accented with the gentle tang and complexity of aged balsamic, the crunch of walnuts and pomegranate seeds, and the aroma of black truffle. The dish is finished with an artistically arranged selection of edible flowers and fresh herbs.

Carpaccio di ricciola marinata 4.2/5

Offering a contrasting expression of freshness, the Carpaccio di ricciola marinata showcases marinated kingfish paired with sweet pumpkin, orange, spaghetti seaweed, tangy oxalis, and savoury bottarga. Also well-presented with many different elements and textures in the dish.

Gnocchi Fegato Grasso e Funghi 4.8/5

Moving on to the primo piatto, typically a starch-based course, we had three outstanding dishes, making it difficult to rank them. After some deliberation, however, both my dining companion and I agreed that our favourite was the Gnocchi Fegato Grasso e Funghi. This deeply indulgent, earthy dish showcases a balance of finesse and comfort. Excellent house-made gnocchi form the foundation, generously coated in a velvety Albufera sauce with mushrooms, cacao and foie gras. A decadent yet balanced dish that does not feel overly heavy.

Risotto Di Barbabietola E Ricci Di Mare 4.5/5

My second favourite primo piatto was the Risotto Di Barbabietola E Ricci Di Mare, visually striking with the risotto rice dyed a rich, jewel-like pink that contrasts beautifully with the orange uni. The rice is al dente with a slight bite, and each spoonful delivers a creamy, sweet-savoury richness from the beetroot combined with the uni.

Tagliatelle Fatte A Mano Allo Scoglio 4.2/5

My dining companion, on the other hand, preferred the Tagliatelle Fatte A Mano Allo Scoglio. This dish will delight seafood lovers, as it is heaped with clams, plump mussels, squid, and a striking red Mazara del Vallo prawn. The pasta is coated in a rich, flavourful seafood sauce that ties together all the ocean-fresh ingredients.

Filetto Di Wagyu Cotto A Legna Alla Rossini 4.8/5

Between the three Secondi Piatti, the most impressive was the Filetto Di Wagyu Cotto A Legna Alla Rossini, a sumptuous Wagyu beef fillet served with a rich sear of foie gras and generous shavings of aromatic black truffle. Finished with a red wine sauce, this dish is the epitome of indulgent fine dining, a very premium special occasion treat.

Rombo Alla Griglia Spinaci, Gambero Rosso Di Mazzara Del Vallo 4/5

We also had the Rombo Alla Griglia Spinaci, Gambero Rosso Di Mazzara Del Vallo, charred turbot served with spinach and a Sicilian red prawn. The fish was cooked nicely, but the turbot head reduction sauce was a touch too intense for our taste. Thankfully, the touch of lemon and cream added a refreshing lift to the dish.

Melanzane Alla Parmigiana 4/5

For a vegetable-forward option, the Melanzane alla Parmigiana features tender layers of eggplant, smoky scamorza cheese, and a rich, luscious tomato sauce, baked to perfection. Ideal for vegetarian diners or anyone seeking a lighter, yet satisfying alternative this season.

We were more than stuffed by this point, but still eagerly looking forward to the Dolce course because who doesn't love desserts?

Amarena al Tiramisu 3/5

The Amarena al Tiramisu puts a twist on the classic Italian dessert, with Mascarpone Amarena cream, biscuit, espresso, and Amaretto, a sweet, almond-flavoured Italian liqueur. While it is generous with both espresso and Amaretto, this resulted in a dessert that was a bit too soft and watery, and overly sweet.

Panna Cotta Citrus Saffron 4.8/5

We were, however, a lot more impressed by the Panna Cotta. In fact, this is probably the best Panna Cotta I've eaten so far. It's usually not my go-to dessert due to its often gelatinous texture and bland flavour, but this one surprises with a silky, creamy softness and fragrant vanilla bean. The addition of citrus and fresh fruits keeps it light, lively, and utterly delightful.

Overall, Fiamma presents a celebratory affair this festive season, where authentic flavours, shared moments, and beautifully crafted dishes take centre stage. Coupled with its intimate setting, exclusive location, and friendly service, it offers a memorable experience for life's special occasions.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Fiamma
Capella Singapore
1 The Knolls
Singapore 098297
Tel: +65 6591 5046
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch: 12pm - 230pm
Dinner: 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Vivocity Shopping Mall. Go to Sentosa Express Station at Level 3 of Vivocity. Take the Sentosa Express Train to Imbiah Station. Alight at Imbiah station. Proceed to Artillery Ave. Walk along Artillery Ave until you come to a road (slope) to the Capella Hotel. Turn right onto the road and walk up the hill to the destination. Journey time is about 25 mins. [Map]

Torno Subito @ COMO Dempsey - Playful Italian Dining with a Riviera Twist

At Torno Subito, Italian dining takes on a playful new rhythm with refreshed menus that include a revamped à la carte selection, a renewed three-course Formula Lunch, and an updated Riviera Tour tasting experience. Helmed by Executive Chef Alessio Pirozzi and part of renowned chef Massimo Bottura’s culinary family, the Dempsey outpost continues to reinterpret classic Italian flavours through a modern, Riviera-inspired lens.

Our dinner began with complimentary freshly baked bread paired with anchovy butter. It is a comforting trio to warm the stomach before the meal proper. My favourite was the tomato sourdough, with its light tanginess that paired beautifully with the savoury butter.

Alta Marea 3.5/5

The Alta Marea ($98) was a striking platter of raw, cured and smoked seafood, akin to a “seafood charcuterie board.” Unique and rarely seen in restaurants, it offered a range of flavours and textures. The standout for me was the cuttlefish, which had a clean, sweet flavour.

Fichi 4/5

The Fichi Pizza ($38/$58) arrived topped with Fior di Latte cheese, culatello ham, marinated fig, and pecorino foam. The chewy dough base tied the savoury and sweet elements together harmoniously, making each bite a joy.

Tagliatella 4.5/5

The Tagliatella ($48) was the star of the evening. Perfectly cooked traditional egg pasta paired with a bold, richly flavoured hand-chopped Wagyu ragu, one of Massimo Bottura’s favourites. Comforting, indulgent, and deeply satisfying.

Tortellino 4/5

The Tortellino ($48) featured miniature stuffed pasta in a creamy sauce made from 36-month-aged Parmigiano Reggiano. Silky and luxurious, it was reminiscent of cereal in milk, but in the most decadent, cheesy way possible.

Prochetta 4.2/5

Perfect for sharing, the Prochetta ($98) showcased roasted milk-fed suckling pig rolled into a roulade, served with peach compote and Swiss chard. The sweet and bitter notes of the accompaniments perfectly balanced the richness of the meat.

Cocco Bello 4/5

For dessert, the Cocco Bello ($20) offered a refreshing finish with lemon and mint sorbet, foamy coconut, and kaffir lime meringue. Light, sweet, and zesty, it was the perfect dessert after all the richness in the meal.

Tiramisubito 4/5

The Tiramisubito ($22) reinvented tradition in a modern presentation while retaining the classic flavours of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa. Familiar yet novel, each spoonful was comforting and indulgent.

The meal concluded with a thoughtful petit four, a lovely sweet touch that served as a fitting closure to an evening that showcased Torno Subito’s ability to bring playful creativity and Riviera flair to Italian dining in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Torno Subito
26 Dempsey Road
#01-01
Singapore 249686
Tel: +65 6486 1053
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon-Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Take the stairs up to Dempsey Road. Continue taking the stairs up to the hill to block 26. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Liberty Singapore @ Marina Bay Financial Centre - Special Weekend Discount, 1-For-1 Asahi Draft and Close-up Magic

Liberty Singapore at Marina Bay Financial Centre (MBFC) Tower 2 has introduced the "Liberty X Asahi Weekend Escape", featuring attractive weekend deals and live close-up magic performances by magician Ming Da on 23, 30 August and 6 September 2025. With great food, drinks, and entertainment, it makes for a lively weekend hangout spot.

Asahi Draft

Kick off the weekend with the Asahi Draft 1-for-1 Promotion, where you get 2 pints for the price of 1. A refreshing way to unwind after a long week – cheers to the weekend!

Nori Truffle Fries 4/5

To go along with the drinks, there’s a variety of bar snacks. A crowd-pleaser is the Nori Truffle Fries ($12). The crispy fries are topped with parmesan and served with truffle mayo, adding a touch of indulgence to the classic bar snack.

Weekend Special (2 Brunch Mains for $59) - Liberty Breakfast 4/5

Weekend Special: 2 Brunch Mains for $59. The Liberty Breakfast ($32) is a hearty all-day breakfast platter comprising Butifarra and Chorizo sausages, bacon, asparagus, mushrooms, hash browns, sourdough, and your choice of eggs. A generous and satisfying brunch plate that works anytime of the day.

Liberty Burger 4/5

The Liberty Burger with Fries ($32) features a juicy grilled wagyu patty, paired with aged cheddar, streaky bacon, caramelised onions, and Liberty’s signature BBQ sauce. Sandwiched between fluffy buns and served with crispy fries, it’s a comforting and well-executed classic.

Prawn Tagliatelle 4.5/5

The standout among the brunch mains is the Prawn Tagliatelle ($34). Cooked perfectly al dente, the pasta is coated in a robust sambal lobster bisque, with tobiko adding delightful bursts of briny flavour. Two large, fresh prawns, grilled to perfection, crown the dish – a must-try for seafood lovers.

Artisanal Pizza from 3.5/5

Artisanal pizzas are also available from $12.90. We tried the Margherita ($26), made with Poolish dough that combines Italian Caputo flour with Japanese flour. The result is a light and airy crust, though the flavours leaned towards the safe side.

Smoked Meat Platter 4.5/5

The Smoked Meat Platter (U.P. $138, now $98) is a huge weekend steal. It comes with 200g of Char Siu Pork Belly and 200g of Kalbi Short-rib – both succulent, tender, and deeply flavourful. Despite the discount, the quality is uncompromised, and the accompanying Asian salad provides freshness to balance the richness. For pork lovers, the Char Siu Pork Belly (U.P. $24) is also available at 50% off ($12).

With its wide variety of food, generous portions, and irresistible weekend promotions, Liberty Singapore makes for a great dining and drinking spot at MBFC. Whether you're here for brunch, pizza, smoked meats, or to enjoy pints of Asahi while being entertained by magic, the Weekend Escape promises both fun and value.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Liberty Singapore
Marina Bay Financial Centre (MBFC)
Tower 2
10 Marina Boulevard
#01-04
Singapore 018983
Tel: +65 6322 3777
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Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1030am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Exit D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

1-Alfaro by Monti @ Labrador Tower - The Newest Rooftop Lifestyle Destination with Stunning Views

1-Group has unveiled yet another stunning dining destination with the launch of 1-Alfaro by MONTI, perched on the 34th floor of Labrador Tower. Opened on 2 June 2025, this chic lifestyle enclave brings together two complementary concepts: the refined Italian restaurant La Torre and the high-energy rooftop bar La Luna. With breathtaking panoramic views of the southern coastline and city skyline, 1-Alfaro captures the spirit of Italian hospitality and elegance, inspired by the lighthouses of Emilia-Romagna.

Our meal began with complimentary Toasted Bread served with Friggione, a traditional slow-cooked onion and tomato dish, reduced until deeply caramelised and jammy. It set a comforting and flavourful tone for the meal.

Stecco Petroniano 4.2/5

A hit at the table is the Stecco Petroniano ($14 for 2pc). These deep-fried rolls of mortadella and provolone, wrapped in béchamel and double-crumbed, delivered on flavour and texture. The caramelised shallot compote dip added a gentle sweetness that elevated every bite.

La Torre's Fried Lasagna 4.2/5

A playful and indulgent twist on the classic lasagna is the La Torre's Fried Lasagna ($18 for 5pc). These crispy golden parcels layered with wagyu ragu and cheese are coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. A unique bar snack or starter that delights with every crunch.

Stracciatella Cheese 4/5

Creamy Stracciatella Cheese ($18) is paired with Parma ham, rosemary honey, and marinated cherry tomatoes, then topped with strips of crispy polenta for textural contrast. It is a well-balanced dish of savoury, sweet, and creamy elements.

Tortellini 4.2/5

Though petite, these Tortellini ($16) are packed with a flavourful filling of pork, veal, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Floating in a robust chicken consommé, they showcase the finesse of traditional Emilia-Romagna pasta craftsmanship.

Tagliatelle 4.5/5

An absolute standout is the Tagliatelle ($14 Half/ $28 Full). The beef bolognese, slow-cooked in milk and aromatics, is rich and comforting. Topped with béchamel espuma, Grana Padano, and basil oil, every bite is harmoniously creamy, meaty, and herbaceous.

Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta 4.2/5

Don’t be fooled by the minimalist presentation. Tossed with tomatoes and squacquerone cheese and finished with shallots, the Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is deceptively flavourful with a delightfully chewy bite.

La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna 4.5/5

The La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is a layered beauty of bolognese, béchamel, and mozzarella, baked till bubbling and then pan-fried for a crisp crust. Served with tomato sauce and parmesan cream, this is lasagna with flair and finesse.

"Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta 4/5

The "Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta ($14 Half/ $28 Full) is a denser, thicker egg pasta tossed with Manila clams, lemon-parsley butter, and finished with bottarga and breadcrumbs. A punchy, umami-forward dish that might surprise with its chew but rewards with flavour.

Queensland Baby Barramundi (300-500gram) 4.2/5

Grilled skin-side down over charcoal, the Queensland Baby Barramundi ($38) from Rockypoint Farm offers a clean, sweet, and buttery flavour with firm flakes. Finished with grilled lemon and parsley, it’s simplicity done right.

USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' 4/5

The USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' ($148) is charcoal-grilled to perfection. This ribeye is wonderfully marbled and full of natural flavour. The accompaniments – roasted garlic, salsa verde, and sea salt flakes – enhance without overpowering.

Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes 3.5/5

Leafy Green from our Garden 3/5

Wood-Fried US Asparagus 3/5

To complement the mains, we had a trio of sides: Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes ($16), Leafy Greens from Our Garden ($12), and Wood-Fired US Asparagus ($16). Each was designed to round out the meal, though some stood out more than others.

La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile 4/5

The La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile ($17) is an intriguing dessert combining the creaminess of burrata with the subtle savoury edge of extra virgin olive oil. The rosemary tuile, Parmigiano shavings, and fig vincotto tie it all together with an elegant complexity.

Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' 3.8/5

The Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' ($15) is a classic Italian dessert that features Savoiardi (ladyfinger) biscuits soaked in Herring Cherry Liqueur, layered with vanilla-lemon pastry cream, chocolate mousse, and raspberry gel. Finished with a topping of fresh raspberries and an extra drizzle of raspberry gel, the trifle offers a delightful balance of richness, fruitiness, and a boozy kick.

Lambrusco Poached Pear 4/5

The Lambrusco Poached Pear ($17) is poached in Lambrusco wine and warm spices. This dessert is comforting and aromatic. The combination of pecan crumbs, pistachio gelato, and aged balsamic adds sophistication and balance.

1-Alfaro by MONTI is a stunning addition to Singapore’s Italian dining scene, impressing with its refined execution of regional favourites, creative presentation, and sweeping skyline views. Whether you’re there for a date night, special celebration, or to indulge in soulful Italian fare, La Torre delivers on both quality and experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


1-Alfaro by Monti
Labrador Tower
1 Pasir Panjang Road
#34-00
Singapore 118479
Tel: +65 8093 5683
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Nearest MRT: Labrador Park (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 1am
Sun: 11am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Labrador Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic light junction. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]