Carlitos @ Joo Chiat Road - New Authentic Neighbourhood Tapas Bar

Joo Chiat has welcomed a taste of Spain with Carlitos, a neighbourhood tapas bar helmed by Chef Carlos Montobbio. The restaurant offers over 30 types of tapas inspired by Chef Carlos' personal food memories across Spanish cities. From timeless classics to innovative creations, Carlitos captures the essence of Spanish gastronomy in a vibrant, relaxed setting.

Gilda Pintxo 4/5

We began our dinner with the Gilda Pintxo ($10), a skewer of smoked sardines paired with pickles and green olives. For those who might shy away from the bold flavour of sardines, the pickles and olives cleverly balance the dish, adding a tangy brightness that complements the smokiness.

Pulpo La Coruna (Spanish Octopus) 4.5/5

The Pulpo La Coruna ($20) was a crowd-pleaser. Tender Spanish octopus, perfectly cooked, is enhanced by a sprinkle of paprika, adding a mildly sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy touch that elevates the dish.

Tortilla Donostia Slice 4.8/5

One of the standouts was the Tortilla Donostia Slice ($10). This Spanish omelette, made with organic eggs, confit shallots, and potatoes, is enhanced with extra virgin olive oil. The highlight? The runny egg centre adds a delightful texture contrast to the dish.

Patatas Bravas Bonanova 4.5/5

The Patatas Bravas Bonanova ($10) is a classic with a twist featuring deep-fried agria potatoes topped with garlic aioli, spicy tomato sauce, and chilli oil. The crispy potatoes pair beautifully with the bold and flavourful sauces, making this a must-order for potato lovers.

Txipirones Bilbao 4.5/5

The Txipirones Bilbao ($20) showcases squid in two forms — grilled and deep-fried — served alongside squid rice in a robust, flavourful broth. The combination of textures and the deep umami flavours of the squid makes this dish a standout for seafood enthusiasts.

Alcachofa Brasa 4/5

The Alcachofa Brasa ($18), grilled artichokes, is charred over fire to bring out its natural earthy and nutty flavours. The smokiness from the grilling enhances the dish, making it a delightful, rustic option.

Macarrones del Cardenal 4.5/5

The Macarrones del Cardenal ($16) is a hearty pasta dish from Barcelona. Homemade penne pasta is coated in secreto ibérico sofrito and Manchego cream, resulting in a comforting, indulgent bite filled with bold Spanish flavours.

Bunuelos de Pamplona 4.2/5

The Bunuelos de Pamplona ($14) are codfish fritters paired with ajoarriero sofrito and saffron oil. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, the fritters pack the delicate savoriness of codfish, with the saffron oil adding a touch of luxury.

Sobrassada 4.2/5

Bikini 4.2/5

Carlitos also offers Molletes - toasted flatbread sandwiches. The Sobrassada ($10) features pork sausages, burrata, and honey, creating a sweet and savoury medley. The Bikini ($12) is a decadent combination of Iberico ham, brie cheese, and truffle duxelle — a favourite for those seeking rich flavours.

Arroz Caldoso de Gambas 4.5/5

A comforting pot of Spanish stew, the Arroz Caldoso de Gambas ($28) features Mediterranean red prawns poached with vongole veraci clams in a broth enriched with rice. The dish is hearty, flavourful, and perfect for sharing.

Fricando Barcelona 4.5/5

The Fricandó Barcelona ($30) is a rich, thick ragu made with Black Angus beef and fragranced with porcini mushrooms. Paired with maitake rice, it’s a comforting, earthy dish for meat lovers.

Flan y Cafe 4/5

Dessert began with the Flan y Café ($12), a silky Spanish caramel pudding served with Corlado coffee. The creamy flan and aromatic coffee create a delightful end to the meal.

Tarta de Queso 4.5/5

Lastly, we had the Tarta de Queso ($12), a Basque burnt cheesecake tart paired with sangria sorbet. This was the dessert that kept Chef Carlos's restaurant afloat during COVID, and it's easy to see why. The fruity tang of the sorbet perfectly balances the rich, creamy cheesecake.

Carlitos is a welcome addition to Joo Chiat, offering authentic Spanish flavours in a cosy, unpretentious setting. From tapas to stews and desserts, the menu reflects Chef Carlos' culinary journey and love for Spanish cuisine. Whether you're a fan of classic tapas or looking for something unique, Carlitos delivers an authentic slice of Spain right in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Carlitos
350 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427598
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Thu: 530pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sun: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon and Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 16. Alight 4 stops later. Cross the road, turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

The Marmalade Pantry @ Anchorpoint - New Outlet With New Menu-exclusives And Retail Items

The Marmalade Pantry has recently launched a new outlet at Anchorpoint. For a limited time until 31 August 2023, you get to enjoy new menu-exclusive Anchorpoint Specials alongside the familiar classics of the restaurant.

Fried Artichoke with Lemon Ricotta 4/5

From the outlet's exclusive menu, we started with Fried Artichoke with Lemon ($20). The Polenta-coated fried artichokes were crisped on the outside, with some of the inner petals remaining succulent and tender. The cold and zesty ricotta provided a cool and creamy contrast to the crispy artichoke.

Tortilla with Mesclun Salad 3.8/5

The next appetiser was Tortilla with Mesclun Salad ($16) that was goozy within, loaded with deep-fried cubed potatoes, flavourful diced Spanish Chorizo and sweet caramelised onions. The dollop of soy-based garlic aioli added a subtle tanginess to the tortilla and further enriched the mouth feel of the dish.

Pork Cheek and Carrot Puree 3.5/5

For mains, we had Pork Cheek and Carrot Puree ($28), served with roasted cabbage, tamarind, and ginger carrot puree. The texture of the braised pork cheek could be more tender, but overall they were nicely flavoured and enjoyable. A notable element of this dish is the sweet-sour tamarind and ginger carrot puree, which helped cut through the meat's richness.

Black Pepper Seafood Spaghetti 4/5

Black Pepper Seafood Spaghetti ($29) stood out with all elements done right. The black pepper sauce made with Sarawak black pepper was punchy, and the charred capsicum's fruity sweetness brought out the succulent seafood's sweetness. The seafood was at their right doneness with a good bounce, and the al dente spaghetti was a very satisfying plate of food.

Duck Ragu Pappardelle 3.8/5

Duck Ragu Pappardelle ($30) was hearty with a tantalising combination of flavours - plump, sweet tomatoes punctuating the deep and rich flavours of the balsamic braised duck. The large surface of the pappardelle and its relatively rough texture made it ideal for such a robust ragu. However, the texture of the pasta could have been better.

Kimchi Steak Fried Rice 3.8/5

A mainstay on the menu, Kimchi Fried Rice served with Argentinian Grass-Fed Sirloin Steak, 100g ($28) is a dish that excites the palate. The steamed rice was mouthwatering with soy sauce, sesame oil and fiery with chilli. The plancha-grilled sirloin steak had rich beefy notes, which complemented the bold flavours of the kimchi rice. However, some fresh elements as garnishes would help give this dish a more well-rounded taste.

Honeycomb Poached Pear 3.8/5

The outlet's exclusive dessert is Honeycomb Poached Pear ($16). The pear was made by poaching it in an aromatic ginger flower syrup. While I wished the flavour of the ginger flower could be more pronounced, it was tender and not overly sweet. The accompanying whipped mascarpone provided a decadent creaminess, while the unassuming honeycomb gave a delectable crunch and sweetness.

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.


The Marmalade Pantry
Anchorpoint Shopping Centre
Level One (Central Atrium)
370 Alexandra Road
Singapore 159953
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Nearest MRT: Queenstown (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Queenstown MRT station. Take Exit B or C. Walk to bus stop at Queenstown MRT station (Stop ID 11149). Take bus number 195. Alight 3 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Tapas 24 @ Robertson Quay - A Special Menu Welcoming Founder Chef Carles Abellan To Singapore

Since its opening in May 2021, Tapas 24 at Robertson Quay, Singapore, has received raving reviews. Tapas 24 is a Barcelonian concept that offers Spanish ingredients in traditional tapas with a twist. Chef Carles Abellan founds it with the original outlet located a stone's throw from Passeig de Gracia, a prime shopping and business area in Barcelona, Spain. Tapas 24 Robertson Quay has put together an exclusive limited-edition menu of new creations from 17 February to 27 February 2022 to celebrate Chef Carles Abellan's long-waited trip from Barcelona to Singapore.

King Crab Ensaladilla Rusa 4.5/5

The luxe version of the King Crab Ensaladilla Rusa is topped with egg yolk, tobiko and miso mayonnaise. I have not eaten anything like it before. It reminds me of our Chinese Sai Pang Xie (Stir Fry Egg White) but an elevated Western version.

McFoie Burger 5/5

This is the only place you can have the McFoie Burger in Singapore, one of the signature dishes that brought Tapas 24 to fame in Barcelona. Unfortunately, it is no longer served in Spain. The Foie patty sandwiched between grilled, soft brioche buns is served with foie gras mousse on the side. Spread the foie gras mousse onto the burger for a hot and cold, umami enjoyment.

Squid Ink Paella 3.8/5

I felt the Squid Ink Paella with slivers of cuttlefish was a bit heavy-handed for it. Though so, the Spanish saffron rice infused with squid ink is deliciously flavourful coupled with delightful bites.

Truffle Spanish Tortilla 4.8/5

Another favourite item on Chef Carles's special menu is the Truffle Spanish Tortilla. I had the potato and egg omelette in Spain but not this version with a molten interior accentuated by the truffle's earthiness. It is hearty and comforting, and most important, deliciously good.

Churros 4.5/5

Wrapping up our dinner is the Churros and Chocolate Cake. My eyes brightened when I saw the churros because they are the thin and airy type I like. It is accompanied by three different dipping sauces - Chocolate, Coffee Toffee, and Mango & Passionfruit. For the chocolate lover, you will love the chocolatey richness.

Chocolate Cake 4/5

In light of Chef Carles’ visit, the restaurant will also present a carte of exclusive ‘Carles Abellán Specials’ (17 to 27 February 2022) and 3-day only (25 February, Friday, 6pm; 26 February, Saturday, 12pm and 6pm; and 27 February, Sunday, 12pm) lunch and dinner set menus that unabashedly showcase the Chef’s inimitable personality. Reservations are for a minimum of two persons and maximum of five and may be made online at https://www.tapas24.sg/ under Reservations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tapas 24
60 Robertson Quay
#01-04
Singapore 238252
Tel: +65 65136810
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop opposite State Courts (Stop ID 06171). Take bus number 51 or 186. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road and walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop opposite UE Square (Stop ID 04329). Take bus 64 or 123. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road and walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction River Valley Road and Clemenceau Ave. Cross the road and turn left onto Clemenceau Ave. Walk down Clemenceau Ave to the river. Turn right and walk down the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

El Mero Mero @ Chijmes - The Go-To-Place For Mexican Gastronomy

El Mero Mero at Chijmes has reopened after undergoing refurbishment. With the re-opening, it has also refreshed the menu. The new menu showcases the traditional flavour combinations, as well as demonstrating the current Mexican culinary trends.

Guacamole 4/5

The Guacamole ($12/$18) is made a la minute. The smashed avocados are paired with diced tomatoes, banana shallots, serrano chilli pepper and coriander. Mixed them all up and have it together with the charred tostadas, for that extra texture to appreciate the guacamole.

Corn Sampler 4.5/5

The Corn Sampler ($15) comes with char-grilled organic baby corns, smoked huitlacoche donuts and chilli mayo. This is my first time to come across Huitlacoche. It is a type of fungus that grows on organic corn, also known as corn mushroom. It is made into a mix with egg, flour and milk, and shaped into a dough. Deep-fried upon order. This goes so well with the chilli mayo dipping sauce.

Hamachi and Coconut Ceviche 4.5/5

I am a fan of ceviche for its firework of flavours, and the Hamachi and Coconut Ceviche ($21) here did not disappoint. The fresh sashimi-grade hamachi is cut into cubes and marinated in aguachile, and then tossed in lime juice, hibiscus flower milk and avocado puree. What you get is a clean tasting dish with the chemistry of sweetness, spiciness and tanginess, igniting beautiful combustion of flavours.

Tostadas De Atun 4/5

The Tostadas De Atun ($17) comes with tuna tartar, avocado puree, chipotle mayo, matchstick tempura banana shallots on a crispy corn tortilla. There are a lot of textures at play, which is a delightful joy to eat.

Avocado Taco 3.5/5

What is Mexican food without tacos, right? Hence we also tried a couple of the tacos on the menu. We started with the Avocado Taco ($11). Nothing fancy, just freshly sliced and smashed avocado on a soft burnt corn tortilla, sprinkled with some smoked sea salt. Maybe I am too used to Tex Mex cuisine for its rich flavours, I find this a bit plain for my liking.

Carnitas Taco 4/5

The Carnitas Taco ($13) comes with caramelised pork neck and belly, paired with homemade pineapple sauce, pickled shallots, and purple cabbage on a soft corn tortilla. Compare to the avocado taco, the flavours are more vibrant. However, I find the pork a bit too thinly sliced for me to fully enjoy it.

Baja Fish 4.2/5

Among the three tacos, my favourite is the Baja Fish Taco ($14). The wheat tortilla is wrapped with tempura toothfish paired with pico de gallo and pickled shallots and chipotle mayo. The toothfish gives the taco a satisfying substantial bite complemented by the chipotle mayo, while the pickled shallots provided the needed acidity to bring everything together.

Tortilla Soup 4.2/5

The Tortilla Soup ($14) is a classic Mexican dish whereby household will use leftover tortillas to make this soup instead of throwing them away. Over at El Mero Mero, to re-interpret the dish, fresh tortillas are dehydrated and flamed. It is then blended with roasted tomatoes, garlic, onion and guajillo chilli pepper. Lastly, it is served with deep-fried tortilla strips and diced avocado and garnished with crema. It is a very hearty and comforting pot of soup.

Gordita 4.2/5

The Gordita ($28) is another homely and comforting dish that I enjoyed, with a generous serving of butter sauteed heirloom vegetables. The gordita reminds me of the local alkaline dumpling brightened by the salsa roja.

El Mero Mero Fajita 4.2/5

The El Mero Mero Fajita ($38) uses the oyster blade cut of the beef. It is cooked beautifully to a delightful tender and dressed in a lovely poblano shishito crema, served with flour tortillas on the side. I actually prefer to have the beef like a taco together with the delicious sauce.

Tequila Pecan Pie 3/5

For dessert, we started with the Tequila Pecan ($14) served with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. Personally, I find the pie too sweet for my liking. I took a bite and stop there.

Red Velvet Churros 3.5/5

I am not a fan of churros, but it turned out I really enjoy the Red Velvet Churros ($14). Deep-fried, coated in sugar and cinnamon powder, the churros are slightly crisp on the exterior and soft inside.

Braised Pineapple 4.2/5

The Braised Pineapple ($14) is the simplest of all the desserts, turned out to be my favourite. The pineapple has been caramelised in cane sugar before being grilled in the Josper oven. The result is a delectable char on the edges on top of its sweetness.

After tasting the food at El Mero Mero, it gives a deeper insight into Mexican cuisine. Not only that, food evolves with time and this is reflected in the menu too, showing current culinary trends and the dynamic Mexican foodscape as it is now.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


[CLOSED]
El Mero Mero
Chijimes
30 Victoria Street
#01-20
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 97228171
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Website
Nearest MRT: Bras Basah (CC Line), City Hall (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 5pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 5pm - 1130pm

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]

The Lime Truck @ PasarBella Suntec City - Yahoo!'s "Top 10 Trucks in America" For 3 Years Running

Intrigued by the bustling American's street food scene? The Lime Truck, winner of Food Network's "The Great Food Truck Race", has driven its way from United States into PasarBella @ Suntec City. Founded by Celebrity Chef Daniel Shemtob, this is the brand's first overseas outpost.

There are 6 tacos to choose from, one of which is meat-friendly, as well as side dishes that are inspired by classic Latin American street food. What's notable here is that the tortillas are handmade daily. That rustic taste certainly stands out in the corn tortilla, in a good way, while the flour tortilla is soft and chewy.

Legendary Brussels Sprouts 4/5

Chef Daniel's signature Legendary Brussels Sprouts ($3.90) is a must-try here. The burnt roast brussels sprouts takes on a bittersweet caramelised flavour along with a hint of smokiness. The piquant dressing complements without overpowering such wonderful flavour. For an extra edge, Lap Cheong (Chinese sausage) replaces the original bacon bits, if that will piqué your interest even more. Chargrilled brussels sprouts hardly make into the menu of restaurants, not sure if it's just Singapore. Even if it exists, I reckon it's going to be real expensive.

Chips + Zesty Lime Guac 2.8/5

Fresh, crispy tortilla chips is always welcome, more so with homemade guacamole. Even if you don't intend to stay put at Pasarbella, Chips + Zesty Lime Guac ($3.90) makes a quick grab-and-go munchies. If only the dip can be much much more generous.

No. #1 Steak Taco 3.5/5

No. #1 Steak Taco ($4.60) is number one for a reason. The steak topping is compact with soy singer slaw atop to balance its meatiness and cilantro chimichurri, a traditional Argentinian condiment, to brighten up the taste.

The Gringo 4/5

I feel The Gringo ($4.50) surpasses my expectation of a steak taco. The shredded beef ribs is tender and the flavour of the beef remains pronounced. Juice trickled down my hands as I bit through the soft taco. With arugula and fried onion, it's almost like savouring a gourmet burger with a premium patty sandwiched in between a fluffy bun.

Slow Braised Pork Belly Taco 3/5

Slow Braised Pork Belly Taco ($4) was somehow disappointing. As I lift the diced pork belly into my mouth, half expecting the texture to be like my Asian style Kong Bak Pau, it just didn't go that way. A flour tortilla, with its softer texture could have been a better companion to this dried out pork belly than the firmer corn tortilla. The saving grace is the great salsa atop create a taste that's as vibrant as its colour.

Fried Chicky Taco 3.5/5

On the other hand, the Fried Chicky Taco ($4) receives a much better feedback with its buttermilk fried chicken, that is surprisingly quite juicy and tender in the inside, with a well seasoned crispy crust. The tangy lift given by the Dijon slaw and pickles completes the taco.

Grilled Barramundi Taco 2.8/5

The Grilled Barramundi Taco ($4.60) is forgettable but I will give credit to them for keeping the fish tender and not using deep-fried dory. The satisfaction just isn't there. Perhaps, a fatty fish may work, like salmon?

Churros 3.5/5

The Churros ($5.90/$6.90) is handmade here with Cinnamon and Green Tea variant. Judging from the consistency and colour of the green tea sauce, I reckon the green tea sauce is made in house too. The texture is really chewy with crispy edge. I feel it should be priced similar with the Tacos which would be more reasonable. Couple it with a cup of Sarnies' black coffee, that would sum up my meal really well.

Crowned in Yahoo!'s "Top 10 Trucks in America" for three years running, I do expect a little more from The Lime Truck. Perhaps it should be out running along the streets rather than being cooped up in the mall. Easier said than done but these tacos are indeed fun to have along with other dishes in Pasarbella, for a more complete street food experience in town.

#TacoTuesdays at The Lime Truck Singapore will be running for an indefinite time. As part of #TacoTuesdays, all tacos will be going for just S$3.50 a pop on Tuesdays.

Words and photos 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.


The Lime Truck
PasarBella Suntec City
3 Temasek Blvd
455-456 / 459-461
Singapore 038983
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

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

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]