The Social Outcast @ East Coast Road (Joo Chiat) - Omakase Experiential Dining Hidden in a Mexican Grocer

Nestled discreetly behind The Madman & Co, a Mexican grocer, lies The Social Outcast - an intimate omakase haven boasting 12 counter-seats. Offering 5, 7, and 10-course omakase menus for lunch and dinner, this unassuming eatery beckons diners into a world of woodfire, smoke, and charcoal-grilled delights from across the globe.

Lobster Consomme 4.2/5

The 7-course Omakase Experiential Dining ($138++) commenced with Lobster Consomme, featuring a whole lobster meticulously grilled over charcoal. This exquisite crustacean immersed itself in a pool of sweet, revitalizing consomme. The lobster's charred essence gracefully infused the consomme, adding an alluring smoky undertone.

Eggs on Eggs 4.2/5

Our adventure segued into "Eggs on Eggs" - a reinterpretation of Chawanmushi. This velvety delight harmonised four egg varieties: chicken, century, ikura, and urchin. The addition of century egg elevated the flavour and introduced a tantalising textural contrast atop the silky egg custard.

Japanese Wagyu 3.8/5

Japanese Wagyu, a short rib cut featuring a marbling score of 12, followed suit. The pristine cut received a gentle kiss from the fire on one side, seasoned with a delicate touch of pepper. A marinated egg yolk was served alongside, intended to be a luscious steak sauce. Regrettably, the yolk's excessive saltiness somewhat disrupted the delicate equilibrium needed to fully savour this exceptional Wagyu.

Tea Pairing 4/5

Amidst the richness of our preceding courses, a fragrant bowl of tea acted as the perfect intermission, cleansing our palates and preparing us for the delectable courses yet to come.

Sate Lilit 4/5

Sate Lilit Bali was our subsequent encounter, featuring minced meat skewered on fragrant lemongrass sticks and expertly grilled. This cooking technique imparted a tantalising lemongrass aroma. Served alongside were freshly cut green and red chillies, bathed in fragrant coconut oil, adding an extra layer of aroma and flavour.

Oyster 4/5

I indulged in Oyster paired with ikura and shark cartilage for the seafood offering. A novel combination, the shark cartilage introduced a delightful textural dimension akin to soft bones, perfectly complementing the tender oysters.

Congee 4/5

Inspired by Northern Thai cuisine, the Congee arrived infused with the spicy and tangy essence of tom yum, customisable to preferred spice levels. Jamaican Jerk chicken accompanied this congee and was a complete, soul-warming meal. A drizzle of lobster oil added a robust flourish to this comforting dish.

Gelato 4/5

Our culinary journey culminated in Gelato, featuring vanilla ice cream drizzled with olive oil and adorned with lumpfish caviar. This dessert skillfully harmonised sweet and savoury elements, providing a delightful conclusion to our epicurean exploration.

Additionally, The Social Outcast offers a tantalizing Wagyu Experiential Dining experience on weekends. This indulgent affair comprises 9 exquisite cuts of Wagyu, paired with a playful DIY Sando experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Social Outcast
89 East Coast Road
#01-01
Singapore 428790
Tel: +65 8923 8924
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 12pm, 130pm, 6pm, 8pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm, 130pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm
(Closed on Mon & Tue)

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]

Hanamaruken Ramen @ Bras Basah - Popular Ramen Chain from Osaka Serving Braised Marbled Soft Bone Pork Rib in Rich Tonkotsu Broth

This new ramen spot in Bras Basah is for you if you are a fan of meats and rich tonkotsu broths. Hanamaruken Ramen is a popular ramen chain founded in 1982 in Osaka and has now set up its space at the Lazada One building, a brief stroll from the MRT station.

With its close proximity to SMU, SMU staff and students can also enjoy a discount here just by flashing the relevant staff/student pass.

Signature Happiness Ramen 4/5

The highlight of the ramen menu is definitely their Signature Happiness Ramen ($22.80 for regular, $19.80 for junior), served with braised marbled soft bone pork rib alongside thin handmade noodles, bamboo shoot, nori and shoyu-flavoured tamago.

Unlike the usual tonkotsu broths that shout pork flavours, Hanamaruken's rendition has a distinct added touch of umami shoyu. Made of chicken and pork bones, the broth was simmered for at least 9 hours with a mix of spices and other ingredients. I enjoyed how creamy and nicely balanced it was without being overly salty.

The massive slab of braised marbled soft bone pork rib was prepared by stewing for long hours, resulting in even its soft cartilage. While the meat was fork-tender, I found it too fatty and heavy for my liking. You'd enjoy this if you are a fan of such rich cuts.

Double Happiness Ramen 4.2/5

For a greater variety of pork, try the Double Happiness Ramen ($19.80), which will include both a cut of the pork soft bone and two thick chashu slices. My dining companion and I preferred the chashu more for its better balance of fat and tender meat.

Apart from these two pork-focused bowls, the restaurant also offers Miso Ramen, Seafood Ramen and Tan Tan Ramen.

Chahan Japanese Fried Rice 4/5

The owners enthusiastically shared with us about the Chahan Japanese Fried Rice ($9.80) being one of their favourite items on the menu. We can see why, as the Japanese pearl rice was fragrantly fried with eggs and bits of pork without being greasy. That said, I prefer my fried rice to be dry, while this leaned just a touch more wet.

Gyoza 4/5

Diners can choose from a couple of sides such as Chicken Karaage, Ebi Tempura and hand-made Gyoza ($8.80 for 6pcs, $15.80 for 12pcs). The crisp wrap was delightful, but the filling could be more generous.

Artisanal Sparkling Tea 4.5/5

I thoroughly enjoyed the special range of Artisanal Sparkling Tea ($6.80) that the restaurant offers. Available on tap in three flavours - Osmanthus Squirrel, "Unknown Fragrance" and Lychee Red Tea, the owners introduced them as they found it to complement their ramen well.

I loved how each tea had a unique profile, and provided a refreshing break from the intensely rich ramen.

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.


Hanamaruken Ramen
Lazada One
#01-07
51 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189554
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Nearest MRT: Bras Basah (CC Line), Bencoolen (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bencoolen MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit D or E. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Atrium @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Launches The Brand New Panache Of Singapore Afternoon Tea

Located on the first floor of Pan Pacific Singapore, the Atrium Lounge is known for its iconic seating pods floating over a reflective pool. It recently launched the brand-new Panache of Singapore Afternoon Tea, available daily from 12pm to 6pm. One can look forward to an enhanced dining experience with refreshed presentation and added touches such as welcome cocktail and amuse bouche, as well as enchanting melodies played live on a magnificent grand piano.

The afternoon tea comprises an ode to the classic indulgence with a touch of Singaporean flavours. Highlights include the Durian Choux, Singaporean Chilli Crab Brioche Roll, Pandan Cheesecake, and Classic Scones paired with Chef Dannevien’s handmade Pineapple and Peppercorn jam.

The sweets selection features local favourites such as the Durian Choux, and Pandan Cheesecake on the first tier, as well as the Lychee Chestnut Gâteaux, Dulcey Chocolate Passion Tart, and White Chocolate Banana Gâteaux.

My favourite is the Durian Choux, filled with creamy and indulgent Mao Shan Wang durian and Gula Melaka for a hint of sweetness.

The White Chocolate Bana Gateaux features ivory whipped ganache layered with fluffy chocolate cake, complete with a crunchy praline feuilletine and soft banana confit that provide different dimensions of textures and flavours.

Savouries include the Singaporean Chilli Crab Brioche Roll, Homemade Virginia Ham Sandwich, Laksa Tart, Egg Pinwheel Roll, and Cucumber Sandwich.

Not to be missed is the Singaporean Chilli Crab Brioche Roll, with a fluffy soft brioche roll filled with crabmeat and savoury sweet chilli sauce. Another local favourite is the Laksa Tart, baked with laksa spices and topped with poached shrimp.

These decadent afternoon treats will not be complete without the finest beverage selection. Choose from an elaborate range of nearly 20 types of TWG Tea loose leaf, featuring locally inspired Singapore Breakfast and Weekend in Singapore and aromatic brews from Bacha Coffee. Take the teatime affair up a notch and sip on dreamy bubbly or toast to an Espresso Noisette and Brewberry Colada, handcrafted cocktail and non-alcoholic cocktail by Atrium's mixologists.

Panache of Singapore Afternoon Tea
- $52.00 per diner | includes a pot of TWG Tea or Bacha Coffee
- $62.00 per diner | includes a glass of Copenhagen Sparkling Tea or Brewberry Colada (non-alcoholic cocktail)
- $72.00 per diner | includes a glass of Champagne or Espresso Noisette (cocktail)

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.


Atrium @ Pan Pacific Singapore
Pan Pacific Hotel Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 6pm

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

Delicatesse (巧彰) @ Tanjong Pagar Road - A Cosy Bakery/Cake With Pretty And Delicious Tarts And Cakes

Located along Tanjong Pagar Road is a little cosy bakery/cafe that specialises in tarts and cakes. Together with my foodie friend Thara, we dropped by Delicatesse to try their delicious bakes paired with artisanal tea.

For our visit, we tried six different tarts and cakes that were available, paired with a pot of artisanal tea to wash down the sweetness.

Strawberry St Honore

The Strawberry St Honore ($9.50) is the first to catch my attention for its beautiful pink. It comes with strawberry macaroon and strawberry chantilly cream. Break into the tart to discover the delicious pistachio frangipane filling.

Mango Cake

I love mango, so I have to order the Mango Cake in a sphere shape. What you get inside the sphere are bavarois mousse, diced honey mango and vanilla sponge.

Matcha Mont Blanc 

For the matcha lover, you will enjoy the Matcha Mont Blanc ($9.50) packed with aromatic green tea cream and chestnut mousse, resting on the almond tart.

Carrot Cake

My foodie friend loves the Carrot Cake ($8.50). It comes with delightful textural bites from the carrot sponge, cream cheese frosting, and milk chocolate walnut glaze.

Tiramisu

It is a unique way to present the Tiramisu in a dome shape. The combination of mascarpone mousse, light coffee biscuit, and coffee liquor-soaked sponge is light yet flavourful. Give the espresso in the pipette a squeeze to get a perk in flavour.

Raspberry Puff

Last but not least is the Raspberry Puff ($9.50). It is crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. The choux puff is stuffed with raspberry for a sweet and buttery finish.

Besides their selection of petite tarts and cakes, Delicatesse also sells a whole cake.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Delicatesse (巧彰)
102 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088523
Tel: +65 87216834
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Sun: 1230pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk towards Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Danger Close Beverage Co. @ Alexandra Village Food Centre - Gourmet Tea & Nitro Cold Brew Coffee On Tap

Having been to Alexandra Village Food Centre so many times, I didn't know that there is a hawker stall by the name of Danger Close Beverage Co., selling gourmet tea and coffee on tap besides draught beer and craft beer. All thanks to KF Seetoh for introducing me to the stall.

We ordered the Chinos and Lady Grey, which are pulled from the tap directly. The layer of foam and colour of the tea looks like a glass of beer, isn't it?

Chinos and Lady Grey

The Chinois is a sparking tea on tap that has a fruity taste of lychee, dried fruit and honey. On the other hand, Lady Grey has a citrus and smoky flavour.

Ping Pong Tie Guan Ying

If you want to see some showmanship, order the Ping Pong Tie Guan Ying. Calvin, the stall owner, will brew the Tie Guan Ying from Pek Sin Choon, one of the oldest tea merchant in Singapore, in a traditional teapot. It is then mixed together in a cocktail shaker like a cocktail. It is a light and refreshing drink that is suitable for the humble Singapore weather.

Abyss Nitro Cold Brew

For the coffee lover, you may want to have the Abyss Nitro Coffee on tap. It has a soft, creamy finishing, almost like having a stout. I have to warn you that coffee quite intense as nitro cold brew contains a much a higher level of caffeine.

Danger Close Beverage Co. definitely brings fresh air to the hawker scene in Singapore. Besides crafted beers and the classic coffee selections, it also offers gourmet tea and nitro cold brew on tap, which is something very unique for the hawker scene.


Danger Close Beverage Co.
Alexandra Village Food Centre
Blk 120 Bukit Merah Lane 1
#01-05
Singapore 150120
Contact: +65 94359194
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Nearest MRT: Queenstown (EW Line), Redhill (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 11am - 2pm, 530pm - 9pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Queenstown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Queenstown MRT station (Stop ID 11149). Take bus number 195. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Redhill MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop opposite Redhill MRT station (Stop ID 10201). Take bus number 33 or 120. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time 10 minutes. [Map]

HEYTEA @ Clarke Quay - Opens 2nd Outlet With 4-Exclusive Alcoholic Creations

The popular China Number 1 contemporary tea connoisseur and the original inventor of cheezo tea HEYTEA has opened a second outlet in Clarke Quay. The new outlet reflects a lighthouse theme design inspired by the history of the maritime trade at Clarke Quay.

The latest outlet also comes with an in-store tea experience laboratory TEA GEEK BAR. Tea-baristas at Tea Geek Bar, upgrades the tea drinking experience of Singaporeans with 6 brand new alcoholic tea creations inclusive of 4 Singapore exclusive: 2 alcoholic tea creation and 2 alcoholic ice creams.

The Royal's Romance

The 2 Singapore-exclusive alcoholic tea creations are The Royal's Romance and Scarlet's Heart. The Royal's Romance ($22) is a stellar combination of vodka and osmanthus oolong, laced with a sprig of thyme and coupled with a splash of zest from fresh lemons. The summer cocktail is light and refreshing. Perfect for the humid weather in Singapore.

Scarlet's Heart

The other Singapore-exclusive alcoholic concoction is the Scarlet's Heart ($16). It is a refreshing watermelon-pink tipple topped off with a layer of fomay egg white. The combination of fresh fruits, pineapple pulps, cognac brandy and jasmine green tea give the drink a silky texture and sweet mellow flavours.

Singapore Sling

 The other 2 Singapore-exclusive alcoholic creations is the Singapore Sling ($5.50) and Guinness ($4.50) soft serve. The iconic Singapore sling cocktail is transformed into an alluring blush-pink soft serve. As for the Guinness soft serve, it has a malty Guinness flavour that goes well with the refreshing oolong tea ice cream.

Salted Egg Yolk Ice Cream

If you are not into alcohol, there is another Singapore-exclusive ice cream - Salted Egg Yolk Ice Cream ($4.80). It has a very subtle salted egg flavour infused in the creamy swirls. It is more sweet than savoury.

Right across the Tea Geek Bar is where you can get your non-alcoholic tea drinks such as their popular Cheezo Teas, Fruity Cheezo Teas and Bobo.

Duo Bobo Milk 

The Duo Bobo Milk ($5.5) has a fragrant brown sugar taste, soft chewy bobo pearls infused with sweetness from the brown sugar. The drink is capped with a creamy milk foam, sprinkled with brown sugar and torched to give it a smoky caramalized flavour. It is pretty enjoy. It will be perfect if the brown sugar aroma is stronger.

Located amidst the bustling bar scene at Clarke Quay, unlike all other HEYTEA outlets, this outlet opens at 12pm and closes as late as 1am into the night to cater to all the party lovers. Its well-thought-out opening hours fits perfectly with the Singapore drinking culture, especially when it is located in Clarke Quay.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


HEYTEA
Clarke Quay
3A River Valley Road
#01-06
Singapore 179020
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
12pm - 1am

Direction: 
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT Station. Take Exit A. Turn right and down River Valley Road. Turn right onto Tan Tye Place. Walk to the end of the road. Turn left onto Clark Quay. Walk to destination. Journey time bout 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit C or G. Walk to the river front. Turn left and walk down the river. Cross the bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]