Showing posts with label Tiramisu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tiramisu. Show all posts

Monday, July 7, 2025

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano @ Shangri-La Singapore - Unveils a Revamped Menu Celebrating Southern Italian Flavours

WaterfallJune25-17

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano at Shangri-La Singapore has introduced a newly refreshed à la carte menu featuring over 20 new dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of Puglia, the Southern Italian hometown of Chef de Cuisine Simone Loisi. The updated offerings blend timeless Italian classics with modern techniques, providing both loyal patrons and newcomers with a vibrant take on Italian dining.

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Focaccia 4.2/5

We began our dinner with a warmly baked Focaccia, golden and crisp on the outside, yet moist and fluffy on the inside, with a gentle chew. The addition of olives and herbs elevated its aroma and flavour, offering a comforting and aromatic start to the meal.

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Frittura Di Pesce 4.5/5

From the antipasti selection, the Frittura Di Pesce was a standout, an assortment of lightly battered and perfectly fried seafood, including baby cuttlefish, octopus, and prawns. The thin, crispy coating provided just the right crunch, while a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of aioli added brightness and creaminess that tied the dish together beautifully.

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Orecchiette Al Ragu Di Braciole 4/5

For pasta, we opted for the Orecchiette Al Ragu Di Braciole. The small, ear-shaped pasta was cooked al dente, offering a satisfying bite. Its concave shape was ideal for holding the rich tomato-based sauce, which was deeply flavoured from slow-cooked pork, pecorino cheese, and fresh parsley. Each mouthful was a comforting balance of savoury and herbaceous notes.

WaterfallJune25-19
Rustica 4/5

From the pizza selection, we chose the Rustica. Topped with mozzarella, goat cheese, thyme, honey, walnut crumble, and dried figs, it was an impressive harmony of flavours. The savouriness of the cheese paired delightfully with the sweetness of the honey and figs, while the walnut crumble added texture and earthiness. It is a well-executed, sweet and savoury finish.

WaterfallJune25-21
Tiramisu Classico 4/5

To end the meal, we indulged in a trio of desserts: Tiramisu Classico, Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa, and Torta Al Formaggio E Pistacchio.

The Tiramisu Classico was my personal favourite, featuring the classic elements of savoiardi ladyfingers, mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa powder, all perfectly balanced and executed with finesse.

WaterfallJune25-23
Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa 3.8/5

The Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa featured a crispy homemade shell piped with sweetened ricotta, elevated by hints of orange zest, bitter chocolate chips, and crushed pistachios. It was rich, textured, and satisfying. The Torta Al Formaggio E Pistacchio was enjoyable, with a creamy texture and nutty undertones. However, the pistachio flavour could have been more pronounced to leave a stronger impression.

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Totra Al Formaggio E Pistacchio 3/5

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano's refreshed menu is a warm tribute to Chef Simone Loisi's Southern Italian roots. With elevated classics, quality ingredients, and thoughtful execution of flavours, the restaurant continues to deliver an authentic yet refined Italian dining experience in an elegant resort setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Waterfall Ristorante Italiano
Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
22 Orange Grove Road
Level One, Garden Wing
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 62134398
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock 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]

Monday, June 30, 2025

The Plump Frenchman @ Tan Quee Lan Street - Rustic French Classics Meet The Bold Spirit of Zouk

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Say bonjour to The Plump Frenchman, where rustic French classics meet the bold spirit of Zouk. The launch of The Plump Frenchman marks an exciting new chapter for Zouk Group, blending the heartiness of classic French cuisine with the group’s signature flair for bold, vibrant experiences. It brings a fresh yet rooted take on French food, one that celebrates generosity, warmth, and comfort.

The menu at The Plump Frenchman is a reflection of Executive Chef Lorenz Hoja's culinary journey and affection for French cuisine. As Zouk Group's Chief Culinary Officer, Chef Lorenz infuses every dish with the creativity and soul honed from years spent in some of the world's most celebrated kitchens, including those in London, Paris, and Singapore. Now, at The Plump Frenchman, he reimagines French fare with warmth and approachability, inviting diners to experience French cuisine in a feel-good way. At the media preview, Executive Chef Lorenz Hoja also shared his philosophy that "French cuisine doesn't have to be rigid or overly refined; it should be delicious, generous, and deeply comforting."

While there's an à la carte menu, a good way to experience their offerings is through the Set Menu de Canut, available Monday to Saturday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Diners can choose from a two-course set (main and dessert) at $25++, a three-course set (starter, main, and dessert) at $35++, or a four-course set (two starters, one main, and dessert) at $47++. The menu is reasonably priced, and Chef Lorenz promises that diners will leave feeling satisfied and full.

(As this was a media preview event, please note that event photos may differ from actual menu items)

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Saumon En Papilotte 4/5

One of their signature dishes would be the Saumon En Papilotte (available on the set menu with a $15 supplement). Salmon is wrapped in parchment paper, allowing it to steam in its own juices alongside delicate aromatics. Infused with fennel, lemon, and rosemary, the dish is light yet flavourful, fragrant yet comforting.

Complementing the main course is a selection of satisfying sides ($9 each). We sampled a few, including the pommes de terre rôti (crispy roasted potatoes), silky mashed potatoes, carottes Vichy (glazed carrots with a hint of sweetness), and green beans. All were delicious and well prepared.

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Poulet Rotisserie 4/5

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Ham Sandwich 3.8/5

Another wholesome and hearty choice on the menu is the Poulet Rotisserie selection, a classic done right. Guests can opt for either a half or whole chicken ($17 half/ $34 whole), slow-roasted for tender, juicy meat. Each portion is served with a fresh mesclun salad, zesty pickles, and a bold sriracha sauce.

Other featured menu items include:

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Coq Au Vin

Coq Au Vin ($37) is a classic French dish that stars tender chicken slowly braised in rich red wine, infused with earthy mushrooms, smoky bacon, and sweet carrots. The slow cooking melds the flavours into a savoury, comforting stew with a luscious, velvety sauce.

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Chipirons

Chipirons ($16) is composed of baby squid stuffed with chorizo and topped with parsley, lemon, garlic, and olive oil, bringing together fresh Mediterranean ingredients in a straightforward preparation that highlights flavour and texture.

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Salade Nicoise

For a light, healthy dish, Salade Nicoise ($24) features a refreshing mix of hard-boiled eggs, tender tuna, crisp green beans, potatoes, olives, and tomatoes, all tossed together to create a balanced salad.

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Anchois

This dish of Anchois ($13) pairs salty anchovies with fresh tomatoes for a mild sweetness. Fresh basil and olive oil tie everything together for a simple, tasty snack.

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Tiramisu de Citron 4/5

Desserts are a must at any French restaurant, and the Tiramisu de Citron ($11) offers a fresh, tangy twist on the classic favourite. It has a slightly sour note, but it's quite intriguing. Other dessert options include the Clafoutis ($11), featuring seasonal fruits and Chantilly cream, and the Mousse au Chocolat ($14), which was a bit too sweet for my dining companion but still quite enjoyable for me.

The Plump Frenchman is located a short walk from Bugis MRT, within the new Guoco Midtown II building, making it a convenient new dining destination for hearty, comfort food.

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.


The Plump Frenchman
20 Tan Quee Lan Street
#01-20
Singapore 188107
Tel: +65 6817 3967
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sun: 11am - 3pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to destiation. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Friday, June 27, 2025

Vincenzo Capuano @ Robertson Quay - World Champion of Contemporay Pizza, Opens First Asia Outpost in Singapore

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With over 30 outlets across the globe and a prestigious #12 ranking on the 50 Top World Artisan Pizza Chains 2025, Vincenzo Capuano brings his award-winning pizzas to Asia for the very first time, right here in Singapore. Best known for clinching the title of World Champion of Contemporary Pizza in 2022, Chef Vincenzo’s philosophy lies in tradition, craftsmanship, and a dough that defies gravity.

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At the heart of his pizza is a long-leavened, highly hydrated dough made with “Nuvola Super” flour, specially developed in collaboration with a flour mill. The result? A feather-light, airy crust that almost melts in your mouth. In a nod to Neapolitan dining culture, diners are encouraged to use the pair of golden scissors at each table to slice through the pillowy pizza crust themselves, an interactive touch that highlights the dough’s soft structure and signature puffed edge.

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Insalata Al Salmone 3.5/5

We kicked off the meal with the Insalata Al Salmone ($26), a hearty salad that’s pleasingly more protein-forward than leafy. Smoked salmon mingles with rucola, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and capers, all dressed in a roasted truffle sesame vinaigrette. It's tangy and refreshing, though more of a light prelude than a standout.

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Burrata Classica 4/5

Next, the Burrata Classica ($26) shined with its creamy centre and fresh pairing of rucola, cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, and balsamic. Enhanced with olive oil caviar for a modern touch, this was simple yet elegantly executed, a reliable classic done right.

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Guanciale Di Manzo 4.2/5

Don't skip the pasta here. The Guanciale Di Manzo ($30) features housemade fusilli bathed in a deeply savoury, 12-hour slow-cooked wagyu beef cheek ragù. Cooked al dente, the pasta clung perfectly to the robust sauce, giving each bite a rich, meaty depth.

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Carbonara 4.8/5

A standout dish of the night, the Carbonara ($28) is a purist's dream, comprising housemade fettuccine tossed with 12-hour slow-cooked Iberico pork jowl, egg yolk, and Parmigiano. No cream, no shortcuts, just authenticity and balance. Easily one of the best carbonaras in town.

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Provola E Pepe 4.2/5

As the pizza that won the 19th Pizza World Championship, the Provola E Pepe ($28) did not disappoint. Smoky provola cheese sits atop hand-crushed tomatoes, mixed pepper, roasted cherry tomatoes, EVOO, and basil. Bold and balanced, it's a smoky, savoury medley with a lightly tangy kick.

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Tetti Illuminati 4.5/5

My personal favourite of the trio, the Tetti Illuminati ($28), is a textural and flavour bomb comprising mortadella IGP, fior di latte, crushed pistachios, pistachio cream, pecorino Romano flakes, and basil. It is a decadent yet harmonious combination, elevated by the pistachio's nuttiness.

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Don Egidio 4/5

The Don Egidio ($28) stood out with its unique use of courgette cream as the base. Topped with zucchini chips, meatballs (a family recipe from Nonno Enzo), burrata heart, EVOO, and basil, this pizza offered contrasting textures, especially with the extra crunch from the zucchini chips.

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Creme Brulee 3/5

The Crème Brûlée ($14) ended things on a quieter note. While the custard was smooth and creamy, the caramelised rapadura layer didn't quite offer the crackly finish one might expect. It's a serviceable dessert but not the highlight.

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Tiramisu All'Amaretto 4/5

We much preferred the Tiramisù All'Amaretto ($17). Layered with mascarpone Lombardo, savoiardi biscuits, pistachios, and a generous splash of amaretto, it was light, creamy, and nuanced. It was a delightful finish to the meal.

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Vincenzo Capuano's Singapore outpost lives up to its celebrated name, especially in the realm of authentic Neapolitan pizza and pasta that speak of slow-cooked care. With dough that's light as air and sauces that burst with flavour, it's a worthy pilgrimage for pizza purists and carb lovers alike. Come for the world-class pizza — stay for the carbonara.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Vincenzo Capuano
The Pier @ Robertson
80 Mohamed Sultan Road
Singapore 239013
Tel: +65 6485 9153
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk straight towards the river. Turn right at the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Altro Zafferano @ Ocean Financial Centre - A Bright and Bold Refreshed Menu in Celebration of Southern Italian Flavours

ZafferanoMay25-27

Altro Zafferano, perched atop Ocean Financial Centre, returns with a refreshed dining concept centred on everyday social dining. Known for its refined Italian cuisine, the restaurant now embraces a more vibrant and approachable experience, bringing the warmth, boldness, and sun-soaked flavours of Southern Italy to the heart of Singapore's CBD. With a bright Mediterranean spirit and a reimagined menu, Altro Zafferano continues to impress with culinary finesse and soulful, honest cooking.

ZafferanoMay25-5
Pomodoro e Basilico 4/5

We started with the Pomodoro e Basilico ($15), a comforting focaccia that embodies the rustic charm of Italy. Made in-house with sourdough and baked until golden, the base is topped with sweet Neapolitan tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The tomatoes are the star. They are plump, juicy, and bursting with natural sweetness, elevating this humble starter with their vibrant, sun-ripened flavour.

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Insalata di Polpo e Patate 4.2/5

The Insalata di Polpo e Patate ($28) showcases a tender Mediterranean octopus paired with baby potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a medley of herbs like parsley, chervil, and chives. The light gremolata dressing lifts the dish with citrusy brightness and herbal freshness, tying all the components together into a well-balanced appetiser that awakens the palate.

ZafferanoMay25-9
Carpaccio di Manzo, Pecorino e Senape 4.2/5

The Carpaccio di Manzo ($26) features Australian grain-fed beef sliced and rolled with rocket leaves, pecorino cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Topped with finely chopped shallots and dressed in a whole grain mustard vinaigrette, each bite is a complex interplay of peppery greens, savoury cheese, tangy balsamic, and tender beef. It is a refined starter with great textural contrast and depth.

ZafferanoMay25-21
Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese 4.5/5

A standout from the pasta section, the Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese ($36) is rich, hearty, and comforting. The artisanal pasta from Southern Italy is coated in a slow-cooked Genovese ragu made from onions and Australian Wagyu beef, simmered in red wine for six hours. Finished with parmesan, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary, this dish delivers soul-soothing depth and perfect al dente texture.

ZafferanoMay25-15
Rigatoni alla Gricia 4/5

Prepared tableside for a bit of flair, the Rigatoni alla Gricia ($36 per pax) is a decadent experience. The pasta is tossed inside a pecorino cheese wheel, soaking up all the rich, salty goodness, then topped with crispy guanciale and a bold pepper blend of Sichuan and black pepper. A luxurious treat especially for cheese lovers, balanced by the smoky-savoury punch of guanciale.

ZafferanoMay25-26
Tagliata di Manzo, Rucola e Balsamico 4.2/5

For mains, the Tagliata di Manzo ($68) is a masterclass in simplicity done right. The Black Angus grain-fed striploin is grilled over a Josper to seal in juices and flavour, seasoned with rosemary oil, thyme, and fennel seeds, and finished with a drizzle of Lambrusco balsamico. Served alongside fresh Italian rocket and cherry tomatoes, the dish is full-bodied, tender, and focused entirely on letting the quality of the beef shine.

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Branzino all'Acqua Pazza 4.5/5

The Branzino all’Acqua Pazza ($58) was another highlight. The beautifully deboned Sardinian seabass, reassembled with the head and tail intact and baked in a delicate broth of vegetable stock, tomatoes, white wine, olives, and parsley. Finished with extra virgin olive oil and Amalfi lemon, the fish is moist and flaky, its flavours lifted by the bright citrus and briny broth. Elegant and satisfying.

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Tiramisu 4.5/5

We ended on a high note with the Tiramisu ($24). This refined rendition layers mascarpone cream with gluten-free Savoiardi biscuits, soaked in espresso, orange peel, and a touch of Cointreau, then dusted with cocoa. The dessert is smooth and light, offering just the right balance of bitterness and sweetness, a sophisticated and well-balanced end to the meal.

With its reimagined focus on approachable yet elevated Southern Italian cuisine, Altro Zafferano offers a vibrant dining experience that blends tradition with creativity. Whether you’re here for a business lunch, romantic dinner, or a weekend indulgence, the restaurant’s new menu invites you to savour Italy’s bold flavours in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Altro Zafferano
Ocean Financial Centre
Level 43
10 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049315
Tel: +65 65091488
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm)
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place. Take Exit C. Walk to Ocean Financial Centre which is on the left. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Casa Vostra @ Raffles City - New Menu Highlights at Popular Italian Casual Restaurant Featuring Mamma’s Aglio e Olio, Beef Cheek Pappardelle and More

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Casa Vostra, a bustling Italian eatery prominently located at the entrance of Raffles City, has been drawing crowds since its debut.

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Known for its hearty Italian cuisine crafted by Chef Antonio Miscellaneo, the restaurant has now introduced several new dishes spanning antipasti to dessert, offering fresh flavours for diners to explore.

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Baked Scamorza 4.2/5

Cheese enthusiasts should look out for the Baked Scamorza ($6), a sharing starter that highlights a sweet and salty combination that is hard to dislike. The savoury cheese is enhanced by a touch of herbs and a drizzle of honey, making it an addictive opener. You must make sure to dig into this while it’s hot.

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Flan di Zucca 4/5

The Flan di Zucca ($12), or pumpkin flan, turned out to be a pleasant surprise. This dish combined roasted pumpkin with a creamy parmigiano reggiano fondue, topped with salt-cured guanciale and extra virgin olive oil. It was well-balanced.

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Mamma’s Aglio e Olio 4/5

Chef Antonio's Mamma's Aglio e Olio ($15) pays homage to his mother's recipe, featuring a comforting blend of olive oil, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. The dish is milder in its garlicky profile but carries a subtle depth of flavour. The handmade pasta is unique in texture, which we found slightly reminiscent of Japanese ramen.

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Sausage, Parpadelle 3/5

The Sausage Pappardelle ($20), featuring a pork sausage ragu in a sofritto base and topped with parmigiano reggiano, fell short of our expectations. While hearty, the dish could benefit from bolder and more robust flavours. That aside, the parpadelle’s texture was done well.

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Pesto Pizza 4.2/5

We moved on to Casa Vostra's signature handmade pizza, opting for the Pesto Pizza ($23). We saw mixed reviews on the pizzas before this, but ours arrived with an airy and bubbly crust. The soft, chewy base is topped with basil pesto, roasted yellow tomatoes, stracciatella, Parmigiano Reggiano, and a sprinkling of pine nuts. The flavour combination was fresh and satisfying.

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Tiramisu 3.5/5

For dessert, we were served with their non-alcoholic Tiramisu ($13) made with mascarpone, savoiardi soaked in decaffeinated coffee and cocoa powder.

We enjoyed our dinner during this visit, but would recommend dropping by during the non-peak hours to avoid the snaking queue.

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.


Casa Vostra
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#01-49/50/51
Singapore 179103
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Operating Hours:
Daily: 1130am to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 2 minutes. [Map]