Keyaki @ Pan Pacific Singapore - A Refined Japanese Experience Under New Executive Chef Teruya Noriyoshi

Keyaki at Pan Pacific Singapore welcomes a new Executive Chef, Teruya Noriyoshi, at its helm. With over 28 years of experience, having worked alongside renowned chefs at globally acclaimed restaurants, including several Nobu outlets, Chef Teruya brings not just technical finesse but also a deep respect for seasonality and presentation that reflects the beauty of nature.

Amuse Bouche 5/5

The meal began on a high note with the Amuse Bouche, which featured a quartet of beautifully crafted bites that demonstrated a keen sense of balance and creativity. I started with the Foie Gras Terrine, which came piped into a crispy rice waffle. Infused with brandy, it was rich and luscious, doing a great job of whetting the appetite. The Octopus Carpaccio with White Shrimp followed, an exceptional pairing and meticulously plating of tender octopus carpaccio and creamy shrimp. The King Salmon Sashimi Spring Roll was light and refreshing, while the Japanese Sweet Corn Flan with Uni and Caviar delivered a bold, savoury-sweet finish that stood out for its intensity and creaminess.

Sous Vide Spiny Lobster 3/5

Next came the main appetiser, Sous Vide Spiny Lobster, with a White Miso Américaine Bavarois, Ikura, and Ume Jelly. It was aesthetically pleasing, but the texture of the lobster was slightly mushy at the ends. The Bavarois, despite being miso-based, turned out sweeter than expected, which slightly disrupted the overall balance.

Hokkaido Scallop 4/5

From the teppan counter came a perfectly seared Hokkaido Scallop topped with Wasabi Salsa and Caviar. The scallop was sweet and meaty, and the Wasabi Salsa gave it a bright lift that brought everything together.

Roasted A4 Iwate Wagyu 4.5/5

The main course featured Roasted A4 Iwate Wagyu, served with wasabi mashed potato and a Japanese egg yolk sukiyaki sauce. The beef was beautifully done, with enough fat rendered to bring out all its rich, deep flavours. The sukiyaki sauce, enriched with egg yolk, added a luscious umami boost, and I liked that the mashed potato had a rustic texture, which helped keep the dish grounded and not overly rich.

Nigiri 3.5/5

Following that was a sushi course with three types of Chef's selection Nigiri — Amberjack, Kinmedai, and Suzuki. The fish was fresh, and each piece offered a nice variation in texture and flavour, though I did find the rice just a little grainy in some bites.

Dessert 5/5

The dessert was a wonderful finish. A bittersweet Matcha Mizu Chocolate paired with delicate homemade Wagashi and seasonal fruits. The chocolate was smooth and paired nicely with the strawberry, but the wagashi was the real highlight, one of the best I've had, soft with the right amount of sweetness, carrying the classic flavours of a Japanese sweet.

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.



Keyaki
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 4
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 6826 8240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (DT, CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Min Jiang at Dempsey @ Dempsey Hill - Celebrates 6th Anniversary with a Six-Hands Collaboration

In celebration of its sixth anniversary, Min Jiang at Dempsey presents the 'Six-Hands Anniversary Showcase' from 7 to 12 April 2025. This exclusive collaboration brings together the exceptional artistry of three renowned chefs — Master Chef Goh Chee Kong, Chef Pung Lu Tin, and Chef Daniel Koh. Three specially curated set menus will be featured, culminating in a one-night-only 7-course dinner on 12 April.

Foie Gras Terrine Monaka 4/5

The 7-course dinner begins with an Amuse Bouche: Foie Gras Terrine Monaka by Chef Daniel. Drawing from his classical Western training, preparing this terrine involves a meticulous two-day process, including steaming, baking, and an ice bath. Encased between crisp monaka (Japanese-style wafer) and a delicate slice of orange, it offered a unique and delightful way to enjoy terrine — its luscious, buttery texture reminiscent of an ice cream filling or the indulgent richness of a cold butter slab. A subtle hint of brandy aroma also came through and intertwined beautifully with the bright citrus notes from the orange.

Min Jiang Appetiser Platter 3.8/5

Next was the Min Jiang Appetiser Platter, featuring Pan-Seared Hokkaido Scallop with Pineapple Lime Sauce by Chef Pung and Typhoon Shelter Crab Claws by Master Chef Goh. The premium Hokkaido scallop was perfectly seared, boasting a succulent interior and a beautifully caramelized exterior. Its flavours were elevated by the tangy, refreshing sauce and an unexpected depth of umami from a final touch of fermented shrimp paste. The crab claw was equally delightful — a harmonious blend of crispy garlic, dried chilli, curry leaves, and aromatic spices, with a subtle sweetness from honey used in the frying process.

Double-Boiled Morels, Agaricus Mushrooms, Abalone, and Dried Scallops 4.5/5

The soup course was wholesome and nourishing — Double-Boiled Morels, Agaricus Mushrooms, Abalone, and Dried Scallops in a Whole Mini Pumpkin by Chef Pung. The broth had a light yet slightly gelatinous consistency, offering a beautiful depth of savouriness and sweetness with comforting herbaceous notes coming through.

Yin Yang Fish Rolls 4/5

Next was Chef Daniel's Yin Yang Fish Rolls with Salmon, Sea Perch, and Tianjin Cabbage. Resembling delicate maki, the salmon and sea perch were wrapped in tender Tianjin cabbage, which offered a refreshing contrast to the richness of the oily fish. The savoury soy sauce blend elevated the dish beautifully, adding a perfect touch of umami. While the slice of truffle nestled between the fish layers was subtle and not particularly pronounced, the overall dish was well-executed and thoroughly enjoyable.

Baked Pork Rib with Hawthorn Sauce 5/5

Chef Pung's Baked Pork Rib with Hawthorn Sauce details the laborious preparation process involving overnight marination, deep frying, and steaming. The pork was tender with a slight chew. The hawthorn sauce glazing the meat, alongside diced seasonal fruits, provided a gentle acidity to cut through the richness of the meat.

Stewed Lobster in Superior Stock with Deep-Fried Glutinous Rice 5/5

The final main course was Chef Goh's highly anticipated Stewed Lobster in Superior Stock with Deep-Fried Glutinous Rice. The lobster was expertly stewed in a rich, flavorful broth, resulting in tender, succulent meat. Complementing it was a crisp, golden deep-fried glutinous rice ball, offering a delightful contrast with its crunchy exterior and satisfyingly chewy center. The luxurious broth tied both elements together beautifully, enhancing each bite with its depth of flavour.

Deep-Fried Yam Pastry with Custard and Pistachio Gelato 4/5

Dessert featured a warm and cold pairing of Deep-Fried Yam Pastry with Custard and Pistachio Gelato by Chef Goh. Cutting through the delicate, flaky yam puff revealed a luscious, savoury custard centre that oozed with each bite. The pistachio gelato was velvety and nutty, providing a lovely contrast in both temperature and texture. While the flavours were enjoyable, the overall sweetness of the dessert could have been toned down slightly for better balance.

The Set Menus 7 to 12 April 2025
5-course lunch menu for min. 2 persons at $126++ per person
6-course dinner menu for min. 2 persons at $146++ per person
7-course dinner menu for min. 2 persons at $186++ per person (available for one night only on 12 April)

Dine-in reservations may be made via phone: 6774 0122, email: mjdempsey@goodwoodparkhotel.com and https://www.tablecheck.com/en/goodwood-park-hotel-min-jiang-dempsey/reserve/.

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.


Min Jiang At Dempsey
7A & 7B Dempsey Road
Singapore 249684
Tel: +65 67740122
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

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. Walk to dempsey road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Nest At One Farrer @ One Farrer Hotel - Bespoke Private Dining Experience

Nest at One Farrer Hotel offers an exclusive and unique private dining experience inside their private studios and villas on level 20, the top floor of One Farrer Hotel. Jointly designed by Executive Chef Marcus Tan and Pastry Chef Wee Pai Hau, they invite you to experience their all-new Executive Set menus alongside curated wine recommendations.

The Havens' private dining studios are converted from their hotel rooms, with a staff assigned to serve the customers in these studios. Meaning we had had the entire room to ourselves! The private studios offer two 5-course Executive Dinner menus - Lavender set menu ($98) and Wisteria set menu ($98). Two Executive menus for lunch are available as well.

We started with two warm buns, served with Truffle Butter and Unsalted Butter. The fluffy and buttery soft bun was particularly warming.

Honey Soy Unagi 4/5

Both the starters were excellent. The Honey Soy Unagi (Lavender) is a warm starter that whets my appetite with savoury, unctuous unagi, complemented by a slightly sweet tamago. The al dente kimchi capellini topped with saltish ikura and scallion helped build the dish's texture.

Ceviche Hokkaido Scallop 4.8/5

As for the cold starter, Ceviche Hokkaido Scallop (Wisteria), each slice of the scallop was succulent, offering an almost melt-in-your-mouth texture, complemented by the bright flavours of the Asian citrus-soy dressing and pink ginger. The accompanying savoury kaiso salad added an extra layer of flavour dimension, and texture.

Ginseng Chicken Consommé Wolfberries, Chicken Gyoza 4.8/5

Mushroom Velouté 4/5

For the second course, the Ginseng Chicken Consommé (Lavender) stood out with its elegant consommé carrying a good depth of ginseng flavour. Partially immersed within, a chicken gyoza was a highlight, featuring a juicy, well-seasoned filling encased in a perfectly pan-fried crust. The Mushroom Veloute (Wisteria) boasted a deep, earthy flavour from sautéed forest trumpets, with a touch of truffle oil to further enhance that earthiness.

Hoisin-barbecue pork belly 4.5/5

Both the third courses were well executed, but I found the Hoisin-Barbeque Pork Belly (Wisteria) to have a better balance of flavours, thanks to a yummy house-made Hoisin sauce that elevated the barbecued pork belly. The pork belly itself was succulent and tender, devoid of any strong porky flavour, and the crunchy macadamia sprinkles on top provided a delightful textural contrast. The tangy pineapple compote added a sweet and bright acidity, cutting through the dish's richness.

Mentaiko Mayo Halibut 4/5

The flavour profile of the Mentaiko Mayo Halibut leans more towards the sweeter side, but overall, we still enjoyed the dish. The fish had a tantalizingly buttery texture and flavour, enriched by the mentaiko mayo. The fruity and savoury tomato mousseline, along with the pickled tomato, was a thoughtful touch by the chef.

Braised Beef Cheek Rendang 3.5/5

Both menus feature beef as the fourth course. The Lavender menu presents a visually appealing Braised Beef Cheek Rendang served with Blue pea glutinous rice, pickled pineapple-cauliflower, and crispy parsnip. The beef cheek was incredibly tender, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the pickled cauliflower played a role similar to our Asian achar in a rendang dish. Though the taste of the parsnip was slightly off for some reason, it was a cohesive dish.

Filet mignon 2.8/5

As for the Filet Mignon, while the 'shao xing' wine jus that dressed it was flavourful, alongside thin slices of pancetta, the meat seemed to lack seasoning to bring out its flavours fully.

White Peach Terrine 3.8/5

Apple Tart Tatin 4/5

For desserts, the White Peach Terrine with Red Muscat Granite and Aloe Vera (Wisteria) was refreshing, especially due to the delectable bite of the jelly terrine. The Apple Tart Tatin with vanilla crème anglaise (Lavender) was stunning, striking a good balance between sweetness and acidity. However, a slight, distinct bitterness came through from the apple itself, and I'm not sure if that was intentional.

For dining at The Havens, a minimum of 4 guests is required, up to a maximum of 10 guests. Floral arrangement is upon request.

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.


Nest at One Farrer
One Farrer Hotel
Level 20
1 Farrer Park Station Road
Singapore 217562
Tel: +65 6705 7828
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Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12 - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Farrer Park MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. Map]

Enchanted Wonders of Christmas with Shangri-La Singapore

This Christmas season, Shangri-La Singapore has created a lineup of festive goodies and merry feasts available from 1 December 2022 to 1 January 202. Take-Home Gourmet Treats, including Christmas roasts, handcrafted log cakes, panettone, fruitcakes, and a range of chocolate confectionaries, are available for takeaway at the hotel lobby Festive Counter. Delivery is from 24 November to 25 December 2022.

Manuka Honey and Cinnamon Glazed Bone-In-Gammon Ham

Argentina-spiced Roasted US Turkey

Perfect for large gatherings and celebrations are the Argentina-spiced Roasted US Turkey served with roasted red skin potatoes with caramelised onion, mixed garden vegetables, brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce, giblet sauce and chestnut stuffing. I also recommend the Manuka Honey and Cinnamon Glazed Bone-In-Gammon Ham, one of the tastiest I have had so far.

Black Angus Beef Wellington

For Beef Wellington, two options are available - Traditional Black Angus Beef Wellington and Vegan Beef Wellington. The vegan version is prepared with vegan beef patties, coated with mushroom duxelles and wrapped in a puff pastry before baking for at least half an hour.

Santa’s Belt Christmas Cake

Santa’s Belt Christmas Cake (S$98/1kg) features a delicious combination of chestnut sponge with macadamia strudel, chestnut, orange marmalade and vanilla crémeux.

Santa’s Belt Christmas Cake

Santa’s Belt Christmas Cake (S$98/1kg) features a delicious combination of chestnut sponge with macadamia strudel, chestnut, orange marmalade and vanilla crémeux.

Grandma Chocolate Log Cake

A classic option, which is also a bestseller, is an all-time favourite Grandma Chocolate Log Cake (S$75/1kg), made with soft chocolate sponge and chocolate buttercream.

Triple Nutty Crunch Log Cake

Debuting this year is the Triple Nutty Crunch Log Cake (S$85/1kg). Crafted into a wood stack, the cake is a luscious composition of sacher sponge, hazelnut praline crunch and mousse, gianduja crémeux and caramelised hazelnut.

White Forest Log Cake

Also, a new rendition is the whimsical White Forest Log Cake (S$85/1kg), which comprises a layer of chocolate sponge with cherry marmalade, dark sweet cherry and vanilla ivory chocolate mousse.

Black Pepper Spiced Pork Terrine

Seared Scallops

Origin Grill also presents a specially curated set menu by Chef Nathan Griffin, featuring dishes such as Black Pepper Spiced Pork Terrine and Seared Scallops. The latter was my favourite of the evening, featuring perfectly seared scallops dressed with creamy chestnut veloute with hints of sweetness from maple syrup, with an accompanying piece of pancetta to lend a balancing flavorful savouriness. Origin Grill festive set lunch and dinner are available from 1 December 2022 to 1 January 2023.

Salmon Carpaccio

Homemade Tortellini Pasta

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano has also dished up festive menus with Chef Simone Loisi's special creations for the season. Indulge in fresh seafood, homemade pasta and desserts in the festive Antipasti Buffet Brunch, Set Lunch and Dinner. Highlights include Salmon Carpaccio with Burrata cream and Homemade Tortellini Pasta stuffed with Mushroom. I truly enjoyed both dishes, especially the Salmon Carpaccio, which was luscious with Burrata cream and incredibly delicious with tangy sweet pomegranate dressing. The lunch and dinner set menus are available from 1 December 2022 to 1 January 2023. Antipasti Buffet Brunch is only available on 25 December 2022 and 1 January 2023.

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.


Shang Palace
Shangri-La Hotel
22 Orange Grove Road
Lobby Level
Singapore 258350
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Lumbre @ CHIJMES - Modern Spanish Grill Cuisine in the Heart of Town

Sitting new in CHIJMES is Lumbre, a modern Spanish restaurant that features a contemporary menu of Spanish small plates and grilled dishes. In Spanish, Lumbre means fire, commonly associated with the "hearth of the home". It's especially apt as the menu centres around cooking with open fire and Josper charcoal grills, and their large open kitchen and stylish yet cosy interior exude an inviting warmth.

Homemade Foie Terrine, Cheese, Apple Purée and Pistachio 4.5/5

The Homemade Foie Terrine ($26) was an impressive start. The creamy terrine is topped with a Mexican cheese mouse, crushed pistachios and a mildly sweetened apple purée, served as a spread with slices of crunchy toasted bread.

Grilled Ibérico Chorizo with Mexican Cheese 4.2/5

Another starter on the menu is the Grilled Ibérico Chorizo with Mexican Cheese ($22) which features chorizo aged and smoked in-house.

Grilled Aged Beef Sliders 4.2/5

Sandwiched in between soft buns in the Grilled Aged Beef Sliders ($26) are black Angus ribeye patties that were dried and aged for 45 days. Simple marination of salt and pepper is used to retain the meat's original flavours.

Grilled White Asparagus, Bluefin Tuna Belly and Confit Green Peas 3.5/5

In the Grilled White Asparagus ($26), white asparagus from France are grilled and paired with thinly sliced Spanish bluefin tuna belly and confit green peas.

Charcoal Octopus & Ibérico Pork Belly with Chorizo Foam 4.5/5

The octopus for the Charcoal Octopus & Ibérico Pork Belly with Chorizo Foam ($38) is prepared by first slow-cooking in salt water before charcoal grilling with olive oil. The result is slices of fork-tender octopus that carry a light char, accompanied by pork belly chunks and a slightly spicy chorizo foam.

Seafood Wet Fideua ‘Arroz Caldoso’ with Calamari and Smoked Eel 4.8/5

One of our favourites was the Seafood Wet Fideua 'Arroz Caldoso' ($48). The pasta noodles thoroughly soaked up its tomato-pepper sauce and seafood stock base. It packed a lot of smoky and intensely rich seafood flavour in a mouthful, with well-charred smoked eel and cubes of calamari for more textural bites. It was a refreshing change from the usual bed of rice in paellas.

Lamb Rack with Pistachio Praline, Baby Tomatoes & Black Olives 4.5/5

Served with pistachio praline, baby tomatoes and black olives, the slightly fattier cut of Lamb Rack ($42) was cooked nicely tender and didn’t have a hint of gaminess. The pistachio praline adds a light nuttiness.

Beef Short Ribs with Smoked Cauliflower Purée and Broccoli 4/5

The Beef Short Ribs ($36) are tender and juicy and fall apart easily with a slight cutlery pull. It is paired with smoked cauliflower puree and broccoli to cut the richness.

Caramelised French Toast 4.2/5

Lumbre’s take on the seemingly simple french toast will surprise you. Their Caramelised French Toast ($16) boasts a fluffy texture, akin to a soft bread butter pudding, served with a scoop of rum and raisin ice cream.

Tiramisu 4/5

Although the menu only has a choice of three desserts, we recommend ending your meal with one. The Tiramisu ($16) is a classic done right with distinctly flavoured yet well-balanced layers.

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.


Lumbre
Chijmes
30 Victoria Street
#01-20
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 97228171
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (NS Line, EW Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tues-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon, Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut across Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road, cross the road to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk southwards towards Victoria Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and Victoria Road, cross the junction to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]