Garden At One-Ninety @ Four Seasons Hotel Singapore - Floral Weekend Afternoon Tea by Nicolai Bergmann

Nicolai Bergmann, celebrity florist and Floral Art Director at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, collaborates with Garden@One-Ninety and presents a Floral Weekend Afternoon Tea by Nicolai Bergmann. Renowned for his unique style that blends Scandinavian and Japanese design, be enthralled by his sophisticated floral arrangements as you delight your taste buds with botanical-inspired sweets and floral-inspired craft cocktails.

Botanical-inspired Sweets

Surrounded by a hand-arranged wreath of fresh flowers, the Afternoon Tea set features a medley of botanical-inspired sweets crafted by Pastry Chef Audrey Yee - Pu-Er Tea-infused Mandarin Crémeux, Osmanthus-Peach Puff, Elderflower-Lemon Panna Cotta, Yuzu-Matcha Cake, Manjari Nama Chocolate Truffle and Violet Macaron.

Pu-Er Tea-infused Mandarin Crémeux

I find the Pu-Er Tea-infused Mandarin Crémeux really adorable. Encased at its core is a sweet, tangy mandarin jam, which balances the sweetness of the cremeux. Another of my favourite is the bitter-sweet Manjari Nama Chocolate Truffle.

Savoury Collection

Scottish Smoked Salmon served in Mini Brioche

The savoury collection was delicious, with a handcrafted selection of sandwiches. I like the luscious Scottish Smoked Salmon served in Mini Brioche, and the other vegetarian-friendly ones fared just as well, such as the Truffle and Portobello Mushroom and Tomato and Green Olive on Wholemeal.

Vanilla and Blackcurrant Scones

Halfway through the bites, you will have freshly baked Vanilla and Blackcurrant Scones served to you, accompanied by homemade Lemon Balm Curd, Strawberry-Rose Preserve and Devonshire Clotted Cream.

Floral-inspired Craft Cocktails

Complete the experience with floral-inspired craft cocktails by Bar Manager Gabriel Carlos and Head Bartender Sophia Kang. Served in exquisite glass teapots, you may try the floral gin-forward Hanami or a whisky-based Apple Blossom.

Floral Weekend Afternoon Tea by Nicolai Bergmann ($68/pax) with a choice of craft cocktails and a choice of tea or freshly brewed coffee. Available on weekends from now till June 2022, served from 2pm to 5pm.

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.


Garden@One-Ninety
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
190 Orchard Boulevard
Singapore 248646
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 11. Walk straight down Orchard Boulevard Road. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Black Marble @ Raffles Holland V - New Sizzling Hot Steak And Grill Concept By Renowned Chef Otto Weibel

Nicknamed ‘The Grandfather’ of the Singapore F&B scene, Swiss-born Chef Otto Weibel, the man behind the newly launched Black Marble at Raffles Holland V, believes flavours come from the grill and not the 'plastic bags'; hence sous vide meat is forbidden in his kitchen. That makes so much sense, and with those words, you can be assured of the quality of the food at Black Marble. Specialising in grilled items, Black Marble selectively sources meats from Australia, Japan and USA, and they will be all chargrilled to bring out the best of their qualities for you to savour upon.

Black Truffle Emulsion 4/5

Truffle-infused mushroom soups are typical these days but not with Black Marble. Instead of using bits or chunks of mushrooms for textures, Black Truffle Emulsion ($15.00) is spiked with puffed wild rice, crisped kale bits to juxtapose against the creamy mushroom emulsion.

Baked Brie Cheese 4.2/5

Baked Brie Cheese ($16) suits any occasions, be it as an appetiser, as a wine accompaniment if you are just here for a couple of wines, or even as a dessert. Freshly baked, it's like a cheese lava cake but trusts me, it's better than a lava cake. To complement the Brie, which isn't a particularly sharp varietal of cheeses, Acacia honey is used for its mellow and floral sweet notes, and the tiny sprigs of rosemary elevate that herbaceous characteristic. And if you notice the blackish drops on the cheese, that's not balsamic, though it tastes like one. It's actually fermented black garlic, and just a few tiny dices of it adds another depth to the taste of the cheese.

Lobster & Scallop Saffron Risotto 4.5/5

Although Black Marble specialises in grill meat, its contemporary western dishes are worth looking out for, such as this stunning Lobster & Scallop Saffron Risotto ($34.00). The heady lobster broth was well balanced with Cream Fraiche, and the finishing touches of grated parmesan cheese and smoked mullet bottarga provide just the right of saltiness to bring out the crustacean flavours of the dish. Firm and succulent meat of the seafood with the creamy contrast of the risotto, the dish is a winner.

45 Days Dry-aged Angus Bone-in Ribeye 4.5/5

That said, the star of Black Marble is its aged beef. This 45 Days Dry-aged Angus Bone-in Ribeye 600gm ($78.00) dry-aged in-house with Himalayan salt through a time-consuming process, and indeed, only chargrilling it will do justice to this stunning meat. Given such quality and the portion, we all agreed that the price tag is exceptionally friendly. That will have you think twice before opting for a regular steak next time.

Grain-fed Lamb Rack 4.5/5

Grain-fed Lamb Rack 350gm ($38) is equally impressive. The most feedbacks gathered were that one could hardly taste the gaminess at all.

From The Sea 3.5/5

Just to add some varieties to your table, From The Sea ($88) comes with Boston lobster tail, Tasmanian mussels, U6 tiger prawn, octopus and salmon trout. Compared to the rest of the dishes, this was a little underwhelming.

Burnt Banana & Buttermilk Waffle 3.5/5

For dessert, we had Burnt Banana & Buttermilk Waffle ($12) served with peanut butter ice cream. The waffles didn't disappoint us with its crisp exteriors and fluffy core. But I can definitely do more with the Baked Brie Cheese for sure!

Written and photography 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.


Black Marble
Raffles Holland V
118 Holland Ave
#02-01
Singapore 278997
Tel: +65 9641 6913
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Website
Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Celebrate Chinese New Year With Paradise Group's Lunar New Year Takeaway Sets and Festive Goodies

Have you started planning for Chinese New Year? If you are planning to have your reunion dinner at the comfort of your home, a good choice will be the Paradise Group Abundance Takeaway Set 丰盛外带套餐 (Public: $328+; Paradise Gourmet Rewards Member: $298+; Usual Price $375.40+). The abundance takeaway set comprises of four dishes which includes Prosperity Abalone Yu Sheng, Grandeur Treasure Pot, Auspicious Black Truffle Kampong Chicken and Fortune Lotus Leaf Glutinous Rice.

Prosperity Abalone Yu Sheng

The Prosperity Abalone Yu Sheng is good for 8 pax. It comes in a medley of vegetables freshly prepared daily in the kitchen and a can of abalone.

Auspicious Black Truffle Kampong Chicken

Cooked beautifully and infused with the earthy black truffle aroma is the Auspicious Black Truffle Kampong Chicken. This is really tender and juicy.

Fortune Lotus Leaf Glutinous Rice

For a more filling reunion dinner, diners will be satisfied with the Fortune Lotus Leaf Glutinous Rice. The fragrant glutinous rice is first soaked, then stir-fried with house-made sauce, mushroom and Chinese sausage, before being steamed.

Grandeur Treasure Pot

The highlight of the abundance takeaway set is the Grandeur Treasure Pot which showcases 16 delicacies and classic ingredients stewed in the housemade sauce. The treasure pot consists of abalone, sea cucumber, fish maw, conpoy, dried oyster, mushroom, dried fish maw, black moss, fermented pork trotter, duck wing, Chinese sausage, bean dough, cabbage, yam, lotus root and radish.

Over at Paradise Teochew Restaurant, diners can look forward to exclusive items such as the Teochew-style Yu Sheng ($68/5pax; $138/10pax). It is available for both dine-in and takeaway.

For the dim sum menu at Paradise Teochew, who can indulge in exquisite creations such as the Steamed Abalone Siew Mai ($12.80/4pc), Steamed Prawn Dumpling with Mushroom ($12.80/4pc) and Crispy Radish Pastry with Ham and Diced Celery Bits ($9.80/3pc).

Exclusive for takeaway and dine-in at Paradise Teochew is the Braised Eight Treasure Duck ($108). The braised duck is cooked until tender, absorbing the flavoursome braising sauce, falling off the bone with ease. Do note this has to be pre-ordered at least 3 days in advance.

The Paradise Group Abundance Takeaway Set 丰盛外带套餐 (Public: $328+; Paradise Gourmet Rewards Member: $298+; Usual Price $375.40+) is available for pre-order now at Beauty In The Pot, Paradise Dynasty, Canton Paradise, Paradise Classic and Paradise Hotpot. It even comes with a complimentary 6-can pack of Tiger Crystal.

Note: This is an invited tasting

Morton's The Steakhouse @ Mandarin Oriental Singapore - Raises Decadent Autumn Flavours To The Next Level

This Autumn season, Morton's The Steakhouse launches a new seasonal menu of hearty autumn dishes. Diners will be pleasantly surprised by the two new premium cuts of Wagyu beef accompanied by decadent sides.

Burrata, Brussels Sprouts & Roasted Butternut Squash Salad 4/5

We start off the meal with their Burrata, Brussels Sprouts & Roasted Butternut Squash Salad ($28++). The healthy plate features a rich and creamy burrata cheese, which balances the earthy charred Brussel sprouts and roasted butternut squash well. Complete with housemade basil pesto, crispy prosciutto and toasted pine nuts to add a crunch to the dish.

Black Truffle & Porcini-Crusted Center-Cut Wagyu Filet 4/5

The Black Truffle & Porcini-Crusted Center-Cut Wagyu Filet ($118++) is impossibly tender and lean, dusted with porcini mushroom seasoning and black truffle zest, before being broiled and topped balsamic and roasted shallot butter for an explosion of flavours.

“Gold Label” Wagyu New York Medallion 4.2/5

The highlight is undoubtedly the “Gold Label” Wagyu New York Medallion ($138++) with its magnificent 10oz cut simply broiled and finished with Morton’s signature au jus. The indulgent steak features superior marbling, flavour and texture.

Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Cream 3.8/5

For something more substantial, go for the Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Cream ($18++), which serves as the perfect side dish to the succulent steaks. The rich flavours, creamy texture, and just the right hint of lemon zest make this the ultimate comfort dish.

Photos and words 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.


Morton's The Steakhouse
Mandarin Oriental Singapore
Level 4
5 Raffles Avenue
Singapore
Tel: +65 63393740
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Website
Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line). Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 530pm - 11pm
Sun: 12pm - 9pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Walk to Marina Square. Follow the signage to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B or D. Walk to Marina Square. Follow the signage to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

LaBrezza @ The St. Regis Singapore - A White Truffle Gastronomy

Hailing from Piedmont, the highly prized white truffles has arrived at LaBrezza at The St. Regis Singapore. Only available during this short winter season between 15 October - 30 November 2019, Executive Sous Chef Fabio Granata has crafted a special menu to incorporate this delicacy into Italian classics.

Organic Poached Egg, Spinach, Tre Latti Cheese Fondue, Alba Truffle Shavings 4.5/5

The strength of white truffles, as you will realise as you go along with the dishes, lies with their aroma. The most ideal way to treat white truffles is to slice them thinly only a finished pasta, eggs etc, allowing heat to release its aroma and flavors, rather than cooking or infusing them into other ingredients as we would with black truffles. I learnt that ingredients such as cream, milk, eggs, cheese harmonize and accentuate the characteristics of white truffles. That explains why Uovo Affogato, Spinaci, Uovo Fonduta E Tartufo ($56) is so imperative in the entire gastronomic experience. The garlicky scent wafting out from the warmed Alba truffle shavings teased my senses the moment this dish was served. While the green element can be interchanged with other vegetables, the cheese fondue and the poached egg are essential to this Italian signature. Made with sheep milk cheese, cow milk cheese and goat milk cheese, the cheese fondue was sharp but not too pungent, rich and creamy, and the egg yolk lava thickened its consistency even further. Accented with earthy nuances from the white truffle shavings, the way to balance the assertiveness of the dish, is to tear the toasted brioche served at the side, dip it in and then deliver the decadent goodness straight into your mouth. The toasty sweetness of the brioche coming through will bring all the elements together in harmony.

(Half portion) Traditional Egg Tagliolini, Butter-Parmigiano Emulsion, Alba Truffle Shavings 4.8/5

Along the same pairing principle, Tajarin Al Tartufo ($60) allows the delicate truffle shavings to soften and release their aroma and flavours into the pasta, and the earthy, garlicky notes of the truffle were even more pronounced in this dish. Coated with Butter-Parmigiano Emulsion, the pasta inherited an almost creamy texture. Carrying just a light saltiness from the cheese, the pasta was able to drew much flavours out from the earthy truffle shavings.

Braised Guinea Fowl, Soft Polenta, Brussel Sprouts, Alba Truffle Shavings 3/5

Just when I thought the experience would get even better with a meat pairing, the choice of lean meat in Faraona Con Panna E Tartufo ($70) didn't quite work with the truffles. Perhaps it lacks the fats and body to meld with the latter, I'm actually quite happy with just the brussel sprouts and polenta to mingle with the fungus.

Zeppole Puff, Chantilly Cream, Hazelnut Nougat, Alba Truffle Shavings 3.8/5

Complete this annual gastronomic journey with Zeppole, Nocciole E Tartufo ($49). If you find it disconcerting about this dessert idea at first, it all makes sense as you appreciate its profile through the various savoury dishes.

Additional shavings of Alba White Truffle is available at market price.

Written and photography 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.


LaBrezza
St Regis Singapore Hotel
Level 2
29 Tanglin Road
Singapore 247911
Tel: +65 65066884
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 7pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Continue onwards to Forum Shopping Mall. Walk further down to Orchard Parade Hotel. Turn left onto Tanglin Road. St Regis is just beside Tanglin Shopping Centre. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Mimi (秘密) @ Clarke Quay - Modern Chinese Tapas Restaurant At The RiverHouse

Mimi is a new and modern Chinese Tapas Restaurant on the second level of  The Riverhouse. It takes over the space of the defunct VLV. This is the newest concept by the 1-Group, featuring four different concepts under one roof. Besides Mimi, the ground floor house the live music revue Yin, international club Yang, and Greek fast-casual concept Zorba.

Crispy Beef "Jerky" 3/5

The Crispy Beef "Jerky" ($14)is a long-forgotten Sichuan classic from the Ming Dynasty. The thinly sliced, deep-fried to crispy beef slices are glazed in a spicy and numbing mala sauce. This is topped with fried shredded ginger and roasted white sesame seeds. This is good to go with some drinks.

Black Gold Chicken 4/5

The Black Gold Chicken ($18) gets its name from the black garlic which gives the tender chicken a layer of sweetness. Probably a modern interpretation of the local chicken rice, the chicken rest on top a bed of crispy rice.

Garden of Mushrooms 3/5

The Garden of Mushrooms ($15) is an Instagram-worthy dish that features Char Siew Baos in the form of mushrooms on a bed of chocolate soil. It is really a beautiful dish that you just want to take out your handphone to snap a picture or two. However, this is not a new creation, as it has been widely served in other restaurants. I also dislike the white mushroom, which is just plain mantou or dough. I have difficulty accepting or appreciate a restaurant putting that in the dish.

A Saucy Crab & Egg Affair 3/5

I am also not impressed with A Saucy Crab & Egg Affair ($18). Presentation-wise may score some cherry points, but this so-called de-shell take of the chilli crab dish failed to excite me. It features a pool of spicy chilli crab, and a briny soup of egg whites with fresh crab meat served with fried mantou. Unless I am a tourist, I will not order this.

The Unsubtle Truffle Mein 3.8/5

The saving grace goes to The Unsubtle Truffle Mein ($20). Actually, this is not new as there is a similar dish using beef and hor fun. However, Mimi cleverly replaces it with bee hoon and tung hoon, giving it an enjoyable al dente and yet contrasting texture enjoyment.

Lychee Lust 2.8/5

Unfortunately, the Lychee Lust ($8) did not manage to arouse me. I applauded the effort to bring something different to the table, but the lychee fritters with candied ginger and vanilla cream just can't make it a satisfying orgy.

Overall I was not impressed with the food at Mimi. While it tries to do modern Chinese tapas, it lacked that creativity to bring something new and unique to the table. The restaurant, ambience and service give the feeling of a fine dining restaurant, but the tapas concept doesn't match the image. It felt like the restaurant is confused about its identity.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mini @ The Riverhouse
3A River Valley Road
#01-02
Singapore 179020
Tel: +65 66610197
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line), Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 2pm
Sat-Sun: 6pm - 1030pm

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 riverfront. Turn left and walk down the river. Cross the bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.  [Map]

Crystal Jade Palace @ Ngee Ann City - Unveils A Brand New Look And Menu

After undergoing a three month of renovation, Crystal Jade Group's flagship fine-dining restaurant, Crystal Jade Palace at Ngee Ann City has unveiled a brand new look and menu. The restaurant now boasts a sophisticated contemporary space that includes an intimate tea room, breezy communal dining hall, elegant courtyard, as well as chic private dining rooms.

Garden Salad with Crab Meat, Pomelo & Sakura Ebi 4.2/5

We kickstarted the dinner with the light and refreshing Garden Salad with Crab Meat, Pomelo and Sakura Ebi ($14.80). This dish used to be only served upon request has made permanently into the menu. It is an elevated rendition of the classic Thai-inspired appetiser that is a medley of fireworks, with the flavours coming together.

Deep-fried Chive Stem Pancake 3.5/5

At first sight, the Deep-fried Chive Stem Pancake ($14.80) looks like any ordinary Chinese style pancake. However, I find the ingredient used to put this together is interesting. The crispiness comes from the thin sheets of spring roll skin, while the filling is a tasty combination of sweet chives stem, minced prawns and bits of Chinese Lap Cheong.

Steamed XO Scallop Dumpling Wrapped in 'Marbled' Skin 3.5/5

Crystal Jade Palace also offers dim sum on their menu. We got to try the Steamed XO Scallop Dumpling Wrapped in 'Marbled' Skin ($8.80 for 3pc). This is a premium take from the usual with the used of the scallop. The parcel is filled with plump scallop and prawn, crowned by a robust homemade XO sauce. Steamed scallop can be quite tasteless; hence, the XO sauce played an important role in holding the whole parcel together.

Roasted Honey BBQ Iberico Pork 4.2/5

Personally not to be missed at Crystal Jade Palace is the Roasted Honey BBQ Iberico Pork ($30 regular portion) and the Roasted Irish Duck with Black Truffle ($26/$48/$95). Using the prime pork shoulder meat for the roasted honey BBQ pork, it is really tender and juicy with the right fat and lean ration which I enjoyed. The sauce is also just right, not overly sweet.

Roasted Irish Duck with Black Truffle 5/5

As for the Roasted Irish Duck, this is a winner for me. The Irish duck is already well known for its amazing texture. The addition of the black truffle is a match in heaven that lifted the flavour and whole appreciation of the beautiful poultry.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Peruvian Ginseng 4/5

Perfect after all the richness, is the nourishing Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Peruvian Ginseng ($26 per pax). This is my first time coming across Peruvian Ginseng or also known as Maca. It is actually a member of the radish family. It is also claimed that the root plant helps to boost energy, may improve libido and reduce the psychological symptoms of menopause.

Sauteed Beef Cubes with Shishito Peppers in Black Pepper Sauce 4.2/5

Filled with "Wok Hei" on top of the succulence is the Sauteed Beef Cubes with Shishito Peppers in Black Pepper Sauce ($36 for regular portion). The shishito peppers are actually not spicy, and it has a delightful crunchy texture. The black pepper sauce was not peppery, leaning towards the sweet side.

Braised Sea Cucumber with Grandma's Braised Pork Belly 4.5/5

A new favourite for me at Crystal Jade Palace is the Braised Sea Cucumber with Grandma's Braised Pork Belly ($36). It is a comforting pot of sea cucumber and fork-tender pork belly that has been slow braised with soy sauce, rock sugar and spices. That rustic home-style flavour is a home run for me.

Poached Seasonal Vegetable with Fresh Beancurd Skin and Gingko Nus in Superior Broth 4.2/5

A usual order at any Chinese restaurant for me is the poached vegetable with trio eggs. Thanks to the recommendation, I would order the Poached Seasonal Vegetable with Fresh Beancurd Skin and Gingko Nus in Superior Broth ($26) whenever I visit Crystal Jade in the future. It is a simple poached vegetable dish elevated by the flavourful and collagen-rich chicken stock, with fried ginko and garlic cloves. The bonus is the addition of the smooth sheets of fresh beancurd skin.

Fried Crispy Rice and Arzo Pasta with Prawn and Shrimp 4/5

A unique dish on the menu is the Fried Crispy Rice and Arzo Pasta with Prawn and Shrimp ($26). It looks like fried rice, but it is not. Chef Foo has substituted the rice grains with orzo pasta. The orzo pasta is skilfully tossed over high heat with prawns, char siew, red and green capsicums to get that al dente rice texture. Crispy sakura ebi and deep-fried rice grains are added for the textural contrast. It is undoubtedly a delicious dish to eat. However, it lacks the wok hei and egg fragrant, which I think the rice grains can absorb better than the orzo pasta.

Chendol with Coconut Ice Cream 3.5/5

Last but not least, we wrapped up the dinner with the Chendol with Coconut Ice Cream ($12.80) for dessert. Inside the coconut husk, there are coconut gelato, chendol, grass jelly cubes and feuilletine shards. I like the idea and presentation, but somehow I didn't feel satisfied, especially if I am looking forward to a bowl of chendol dessert. I couldn't really enjoy the different components in the husk together to associate it to the chendol dessert, as I ended up tackling the elements individually.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Crystal Jade Palace
Ngee Ann City
391 Orchard Road
#04-19
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 67352388
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Sat: 11am - 1030pm
Sun & PH: 10am - 1030pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit C or D. Walk to Ngee Ann City. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]