Showing posts with label Tomatoes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tomatoes. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Peperoni Pizzeria @ Greenwood Avenue - For Hearty Wood-fired Pizzas, Pastas, Diverse Mains and Desserts

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Peperoni Pizzeria has long been a well-known brand for its wood-fired pizzas, most notably the XXL 21” versions that let diners mix and match flavours with a half-and-half option.

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Since opening in 2004, it has grown to six outlets across Singapore, including its original location at Greenwood and branches in Suntec, United Square, Biopolis, Upper Thomson, and Frankel. The brand has also recently refreshed its dessert and drink offerings to complement its core menu.

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Blistered Cherry Tomatoes 3.8/5

We stopped by the cosy Greenwood outlet to sample several items, starting with the Blistered Cherry Tomatoes ($16). The appetiser brought together sweet roasted tomatoes, creamy stracciatella, and crusty bread, lifted by a fragrant basil dressing that added both savoury and sweet notes.

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Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon & Sage Oil 4.2/5

For pasta, the Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon & Sage Oil ($26) stood out with its balance of creamy pumpkin sweetness, savoury sautéed bacon, and crunchy asparagus. It was rich but not cloying, making it easy to enjoy the whole plate.

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Large 12” Pizza - Half & Half 4/5

Naturally, we couldn't skip their signature pizza. We opted for the Large 12" Pizza ($27) in a half-and-half style. One side featured the Brown Butter Pulled Chicken with scamorza, kale, balsamic onions, and parmesan. The other was the Salmon & Asparagus, topped with salmon chunks, furikake, grated egg, and sweet mayo. Both were served on a tomato base with mozzarella. The pizza base and crust were thin, perhaps even thinner than I recall from my last experience. They also leaned more crunchy than chewy.

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Roasted Beetroot Caprese 3.8/5

For something meatless, we tried the Roasted Beetroot Caprese ($24), a vegetarian main with roasted beets, pesto, polenghi, and baked vegetables like baby corn and brussels sprouts. The nutty pesto tied the elements together well, though the tang of the baby corn didn’t quite win us over.

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Baby Back Ribs 3.5/5

We also sampled the Baby Back Ribs ($37), served with a side of mesclun and fries. While we appreciated that the sauce wasn’t overly sweet, the ribs themselves were too tough for our liking.

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Apple Brick 3.8/5

For dessert, we had the Apple Brick ($12), one of the new additions to the menu. It featured caramelised apple slices tucked into a crisp fried pastry, served with vanilla gelato. The contrast between warm and cold was delightful, though we hoped for a more pronounced apple flavour.

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Affogato 4/5

To finish, we enjoyed the Affogato ($10), a simple yet comforting treat of vanilla gelato, espresso, and chocolate chips.

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Beverages

Their revamped drinks list includes refreshing options like the Citrus Thyme Soda ($8) made with housemade lime syrup and herbs, and the Peperoni Sunset ($8), a citrusy blend of lime, orange, and mint. These are more for diners with a sweet tooth.

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.


Peperoni Pizzeria
6 Greenwood Avenue
Singapore 289195
Tel: +65 6681 6734
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Nearest MRT: Tan Kah Kee (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 230pm, 5pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 3pm 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tan Kah Kee MRT station. Take Exit A. Use the overhead bridge to Exit B. Walk straight to Hillcrest Road. Turn right onto Hillcrest Road. Walk down Hillcrest Road and make a left into Greenwood Avenue. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, October 26, 2024

Province @ Joo Chiat Road - A Sumptuous Exploration of Southeast Asian Summer Flavours

ProvinceOct24-58

Returning to Province at Joo Chiat Road to experience their new Summer menu was a delight, especially after the impressive Autumn tasting we enjoyed before. Chef-owner Law Jia-Jun continues to demonstrate his creativity and skill in crafting dishes inspired by Southeast Asian ingredients, flavours, and techniques, delivering an exceptional dining experience. This 7-course dinner ($148++) is a seasonal journey that showcases the beauty and diversity of regional flavours in a refined and elevated way.

ProvinceOct24-8
Caviar & Indonesian Flower Crab Tartlet 4.2/5

Our meal began with a couple of delicate snacks, starting with the Caviar & Indonesian Flower Crab Tartlet. The natural sweetness of the flower crab paired wonderfully with the briny pop of the caviar, creating a harmonious bite. The tartlet provided a satisfying crunch that contrasted beautifully with the tender, flavourful filling, setting the tone for the creativity we would see throughout the evening.

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Panipuri with Horse Mackerel & Ginger Flower 4/5

Next was the Panipuri with Horse Mackerel & Ginger Flower, a bite-sized marvel inspired by local flavours. The bold inclusion of ginger flower evoked the flavours of rojak, and the crispy shell offered a pleasing contrast to the tender mackerel. This dish was a perfect blend of textures and an exciting tribute to familiar Southeast Asian ingredients in a new format.

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Lobster Croustade 4.2/5

The last of our opening snacks was the Lobster Croustade. Presented in a house-made kueh pie tee shell infused with seaweed, this luxe twist on the traditional snack featured a filling of lobster and crispy broccoli for added texture. The croustade was garnished with delicate flower petals from Thailand, making this elegant dish as visually captivating as it was delicious.

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Momotaro Tomato & Shiro Sorbet 4.8/5

Our first course was the Momotaro Tomato topped with Shiro Sorbet, a refreshing and umami-filled dish. The Japanese Momotaro tomato, sourced from Cameron Highlands, was beautifully sweet. It was peeled, stuffed with confit tomatoes, and cooked down to intensify the flavour, then topped with shiro sorbet and puffed quinoa for added crunch. The sorbet’s savoury notes paired seamlessly with the tomato, creating a balanced and layered bite.

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Squid from Jurong Fishery Port 4.5/5

The Squid from Jurong Fishery Port was another unique and flavourful dish. Tender and slightly charred, the green-eye squid lay hidden beneath a silky Beurre Blanc sauce. Sambal mata added a touch of heat, while fermented kedondong introduced a subtle acidity, enhancing the dish's complexity without overpowering the delicate squid.

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White Trevally with Seaweed XO 4/5

Next came the White Trevally with Seaweed XO, showcasing another unconventional fish. The white trevally had a smooth, buttery texture, and its lean, firm flesh was enhanced by the house-made seaweed XO sauce, which lent a local sambal stingray-like taste. This dish truly captured a sense of place, marrying local seafood traditions with sophisticated techniques.

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Charcoal-grilled Aged Sarawak Pork 4.2/5

The Charcoal-grilled Aged Sarawak Pork was a revelation. Grilled over coals and smoked with hay, this aged pork had a perfect char and deep smoky aroma while remaining tender and juicy. It was served with edamame, mustard, and a rich pork wine reduction jus, creating a well-rounded dish that was both hearty and complex.

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La Mian with Clams and Okra 4.5/5

A comforting bowl of La Mian with Clams and Okra followed, a nod to Chef Law's weekend family meals. Made with house-made noodles, grilled okra, and clams from the Philippines, the dish was bathed in a chicken consommé infused with tropical flavours from lemongrass, kaffir lime, and Vietnamese lime. This simple yet vibrant soup provided a soothing transition from the heavier dishes, signalling the end of the savoury courses.

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Osmanthus & Wild Sumac 4.2/5

The dessert course began with Osmanthus Aiyu Jelly paired with compressed melon for a burst of sweetness. A wild sumac granita added refreshing acidity, while Ulam Raja introduced subtle earthy undertones that balanced the sour notes. This multi-dimensional dessert was a symphony of flavours, evoking the lightness and freshness of summer.

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Grilled Pineapple and Millet Syphon 4/5

The final dessert was a delightful Grilled Pineapple and Millet Syphon. The pineapple, compressed with gula melaka and grilled over charcoal, had a beautiful caramelised sweetness. It was paired with millet foam and coconut yoghurt ice cream, which added a creamy and tangy component, rounding out the dish with a tropical flair.

Province's Summer menu is a beautiful homage to Southeast Asia, highlighting seasonal ingredients with creativity and respect for tradition. Chef Law's passion for reimagining local flavours shines through in every dish, providing a unique dining experience that feels both familiar and innovative. Province's summer menu is not to be missed for anyone seeking a refined yet playful exploration of regional flavours.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Province
(Located inside 808 Eating House)
153 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427431
Tel: +65 8075 1896
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Thu-Sat (Lunch)
1st Seating: 12.30pm

Tue-Sat (Dinner)
1st Seating : 6.15pm
2nd Seating : 8.30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus 33. Alight 5 stops later. Walk across the open-air carpark. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to Sims Ave. Cross the road and walk to Tanjong Katong Road. Walk down Tanjong Katong Road to Geylang Road. Cross the road, turn left and walk down Geylang Road. Walk to Joo Chiat Road. Turn right onto Joo Chiat Road. Walk down Joo Chiat Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, September 21, 2024

Birds of A Feather @ Amoy Street - Soaring to New Height with A New Cuisine Approach & Refreshed Menu

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Birds of A Feather has been a staple of Singapore's dining scene for eight years. Now, Head Chef Eugene See is refreshing the menu with bold new creations that continue to merge East and West, all while paying homage to the restaurant's signature Sichuan influences.

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Crab and Avocado Bruschetta 4.2/5

We started the evening with the Crab and Avocado Bruschetta ($18). This dish features crab tartare mixed with Sichuan-infused guacamole, served atop toasted brioche and finished with pomegranate seeds, caviar, and slices of green apple. The interplay of creamy avocado, sweet crab, and the slight numbing sensation from the Sichuan peppercorns was delightful. The crunchy brioche was a perfect vessel for the toppings, and the pomegranate pops added sweetness — a satisfying and inventive starter.

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Yu Xiang Eggplant 4/5

Next was the Yu Xiang Eggplant ($18), Chef Eugene's modern twist on the traditional Sichuan dish, Yu Xiang Qie Zi (鱼香茄子). The dish showcases eggplant in two ways — one is braised in house-made Yu Xiang sauce, and the other is prepared escabeche style, pickled in the same sauce. The combination of soft, braised eggplant and the slightly tangy, pickled version was a unique way to play with textures. The rich, garlicky sauce brought everything together beautifully.

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Ceviche 4/5

The Ceviche ($21) is a vibrant and fresh dish inspired by the classic Peruvian seafood appetiser but with a Sichuan twist. Here, diced Spanish seabass is cured in a Sichuan-style "Leche de Tigre" with pickled ginger and vine pepper oil, which provides an additional zing to the delicate fish. The balance of acidity and spice made it a refreshing and bold offering, though not as Sichuan-heavy as some might expect.

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Spinach & Mushroom 3.8/5

Spinach & Mushroom ($17) offers a fusion of flavours rooted in a classic breakfast combination but elevated with Sichuan influences. The spinach is topped with toasted pine nuts, smoked bamboo shoots, and rye croutons, finished with fermented Sichuan black soybean sabayon and a drizzle of Tang Cu sauce. The dish was hearty and well-balanced, with the earthy notes from the smoked bamboo adding an extra layer of flavour. The tanginess from the sauce brought a bright contrast to the rich ingredients.

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Find the Chicken in the Chillies 4.5/5

A fan-favourite and rightly so, the Find the Chicken in the Chillies ($19) is Chef Eugene's playful take on the iconic Sichuan dish La Zi Ji (辣子鸡). Tender, juicy chicken popcorn is wok-fried with a mix of dried chillies, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, and leeks. The chicken is first coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and then fried twice to achieve an ultra-crispy exterior. It's addictive, spicy, and flavourful — a must-order for spice lovers. One of the best renditions of La Zi Ji I've had in Singapore.

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Ume Tomato 4.2/5

The Ume Tomato ($14) was a lighter, refreshing dish made with Looye cherry tomatoes sourced from Holland. The tomatoes are marinated in Ume (plum) and served with Ume granite, sour jelly, and salicornia. The combination of sweet, sour, and salty flavours was intriguing, with the tangy granite providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the tomatoes. This dish is an ideal palate cleanser to order after the spicy La Zi Ji, as it beautifully cuts through the heat and refreshes the senses.

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Oriental Duck Consomme 4/5

The Oriental Duck Consomme ($28) is a beautiful representation of Chef Eugene's love for roasted duck. The consommé is poured tableside over duck ravioli, braised daikon, black trumpet mushrooms, and cordyceps flower. The broth is clear yet rich in flavour, and the tender duck ravioli was the star of the dish. Each bite was comforting and elegant and showcased the complexity of the flavours in a subtle way. A dish that will impress both fans of Sichuan and French cuisine.

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Chow Chow Prawn 4.2/5

A Sichuan-inspired take on the American South's chow chow relish, the Chow Chow Prawn ($43) features wok-fried spiced tiger prawns paired with a Sichuan chow chow relish made from cabbage, onions, and bell peppers. The prawns were perfectly cooked, with a slight char that added smokiness to the dish. The chow chow relish had a nice balance of tang and heat, complementing the sweetness of the prawns — a creative and well-executed dish.

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Loup De Mer 4.8/5

The Loup De Mer ($98) is a whole European seabass cooked perfectly. The fish is served with asparagus, ratte potato, kale, and vine pepper beurre blanc, and then the fish is finished with Sichuan chopped chilli salsa. The crispy skin, with scales left intact, added a delightful crisp to the tender, flaky fish. The beurre blanc had a slight Sichuan kick, making this a dish that marries European finesse with bold Sichuan flavours —definitely one of the menu's highlights.

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Homestyle Braised Pork Belly 4.5/5

A hearty, comforting dish, the Homestyle Braised Pork Belly ($63) draws inspiration from claypot rice but is elevated with Chef Eugene's signature touch. The tender pork belly is perfectly braised and served with fried kale, tea tree mushroom, garlic rice, and egg confit. For an added indulgence, shaved truffle is available as an add-on. The dish was rich and satisfying, though the price point might be steep for some.

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Citrus Block 4/5

Birds of A Feather continues to impress with its new menu, blending traditional Sichuan flavours with contemporary Western techniques. Chef Eugene's creative vision shines through in every dish, particularly in standouts like the Find the Chicken in the Chillies, Loup De Mer, and Homestyle Braised Pork Belly. Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, this menu refresh brings a sense of excitement and reinvention to the restaurant's already impressive offerings.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Birds of A Feather
115 Amoy Street
Singapore 069935
Tel: +65 9755 7115
Facebook
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight
Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Follow the covered walkway to the junction of Mccallum Street, Telok Ayer and Amoy Street. Turn left at the junction onto Amoy Street. Continue on Amoy Street to the end of the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Monday, September 16, 2024

Joie @ Orchard Central - Meatless Fine Dining with A Rooftop Dining View

Grilled Mushroom Steak 1

Perched atop Orchard Central, Joie offers a unique fine-dining experience that is not just for vegetarians or vegans. With a creative meatless menu featuring a delightful Korean twist, this upscale restaurant caters to all occasions, whether you're celebrating a memorable moment or simply enjoying a meal with a view.

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Surrounded by the lush greenery of a rooftop garden, we were fortunate to be seated at one of the best tables, perfectly positioned to watch the sunset as we enjoyed our dinner.

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Welcome Drink, Roasted Korean Sunchoke Tea and Artemisia Tea

We had the 6-Course Dinner, priced at $78++ per person, which includes three starters, a vegetable dish, a main course, and dessert. As there were 2 of us, we had the opportunity to sample all the options available on the course menu.

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“Tuna Tartare” 4/5

This dish truly impressed with its creative use of watermelon to mimic tuna. Served with crispy rice paper, sesame powder, egg yolk gel, apricot, and pickled pears, the Tuna Tartare was both appetising and refreshing - a perfect start to the meal.

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Joie’s Crispy Layered Fries 4/5

An elevated take on a classic, these Crispy Layered Fries are made with imported potatoes from Holland and served with fermented kimchi, gochujang mayo, and black garlic mayo. Each fry offers a combination of textures and flavours that make every bite unique.

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Charcoal Makgeoli Slider 3.8/5

The Charcoal Makgeoli Slider, which includes halloumi cheese sandwiched between charcoal buns, comes in two pieces per person. The combination of pickled radish, arugula, kimchi puree, and the signature egg yolk gel make this dish enjoyable, although not a standout.

Ddukgalbi Century Scotch Egg 1
“Ddukgalbi” Century Scotch Egg 4/5

An additional starter from the ala carte menu we get to try was the "Ddukgalbi" Century Scotch Egg, a unique twist on the traditional British dish made with century egg. Paired with gochujang and black garlic mayo, this dish is a must-try for century egg lovers.

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Grilled Roots Vegetables 2.8/5

Muk Heirloom Cherry Tomato Salad 1
Heirloom Cherry Tomato Salad & Burratina 3/5

We had both vegetable options on the menu, but unfortunately, both dishes were underwhelming compared to our starters. The Grilled Root Vegetables are tough and lacking flavour. As for the Heirloom Cherry Tomato Salad & Burratina, while the sweet cherry tomatoes were enjoyable, the burrata was unfortunately dry. The dish was garnished with olive oil powder, a unique touch, though it didn't elevate the overall experience.

Mapadubu Lasagna 1
Mapadubu Lasagna 3/5

Grilled Mushroom Steak 2
Grilled Summer Mushroom Steak 4/5

We also got both options for the mains on the course menu. Despite being inspired by mapo tofu, the Mapadubu Lasagna lacked the distinct flavours of the dish. The texture of the lasagna sheets was inconsistent; they were soft in some areas and tough in others, which detracted from the overall enjoyment.

Grilled Mushroom Steak 5

The Grilled Summer Mushroom Steak was the highlight of the main courses. Served on a hot plate with homemade black pepper sauce, the monkey head mushroom's texture closely mimicked a steak, making this a satisfying dish.

Basque Burnt Cheesecake 1
Burnt Basque Cheese Cake 3/5

Unfortunately, the Burnt Basque Cheese Cake served with an Oreo crust, and homemade milk ice cream was too dense, more reminiscent of a New York cheesecake than a Basque-style one. It was enjoyable but could be lighter in texture. Joie has recently added a new dessert option to the menu - Black Sesame Ice Cream - which was unavailable at our visit.

Ambience 1

Joie also offers other set lunch and dinner options daily:

• 3-Course: $38++ per person (lunch only, Monday to Friday except public holidays and eve of public holidays)
• 5-Course: $58++ per person
• 6-Course: $78++ per person
• 8-Course: $98++ per person (available for both lunch and dinner)

Ambience 3

The spacious restaurant includes four private dining rooms, perfect for hosting special gatherings.

Entrance

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Joie
Orchard Central
#12-01
181 Orchard Road
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 9663 0901
Facebook
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Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit C or D. Walk to Orchard Central. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]