[CLOSED] The Kongsee @ Genmill Lane - Mod-Sin Izakaya Conceptualised by Chef Willin Low

The Kongsee on Genmill Lane is conceptualised as a mod-sin izakaya with the vibe of an underground lounge, with Chef Willin Low as the food consultant.

Barramundi Ceviche 3.5/5

Barramundi Ceviche ($22) is a dish that was conceived against the backdrop of our local food history and culture. The Barramundi is locally sourced, treated and presented as a Latin American dish with a Southeast Asia flair. It is accompanied by some cold and warm elements for flavour and textural contrast - Pickle Onions, Fried capers, Fried Diced Eggplant, Savoury Ice Cream and mini Papadams, which serve as a vessel to bring it all together. While the concept was good, the flavours of the various elements didn't quite come together.

Kongsee Crab Cake 4/5

As our fondness for Thai food has also shaped our local food scene, the menu also offers a few Thai-inspired dishes, such as the Kongsee Crab Cake ($28), made with Wild Caught Crab in Tom Kha Kai. The flavour of the Crab Cake was reminiscent of the Thai Fish Cake, which was in harmony with the coconut soup. The soup, delectably infused with lemongrass and aromatic kaffir lime oil, added to the cohesiveness of the dish.

Iberico Satay 4.8/5

Salted Egg Prawn 4.2/5

We tried 2 of the Skewers (minimum 2 skewers) that spotlight the quality of the respective ingredients - Iberico Satay ($8) and Salted Egg Prawn ($7). The iberico secreto was grilled to perfection over binchotan, rendering its fats and attaining the right amount of char on the exterior, which fully developed the iberico's tantalising flavours. The accompanying Javanese Peanut Sauce and Pineapple Salsa showcase the restaurant's attention to detail in bringing you the dish's essence. The latter was well executed too. I could taste the Tiger Prawn's sweetness enhanced by the contrasting Salted Egg sauce. It also had a delectable firm, and meaty texture.

Ngoh Hiong Dumplings 3.5/5

Ngoh Hiong Dumplings ($8) is a rendition of our traditional Ngoh Hiong, made with a Crab and Pork mixture wrapped with Bean Curd Skin and finished with a dash of Vinegar. While the mixture was considerably juicy and the flavour was good, it lacked the crunch and sweetness in the absence of prawns and water chestnut.

Roxy Crab Laksa 4/5

Roxy Crab Laksa ($12) is a highly anticipated dish cooked with Chef Willin's Secret Recipe Laksa Broth. The broth undoubtedly captivated me with its robustness. It was pleasantly spicy with a well-balanced of flavours. Though switching prawns with Wild wild-caught crab elevates the finesse of the dish, the comfort and satisfaction of a laksa are missing.

Lamb Kut Teh 4.8/5

Lamb Kut Teh ($32) is by far the best Lamb dish I had in a long time. Whether or not you are a lamb lover, you should give it a try. The soup carried a good amount of heat lent from White Peppercorn, permeated with just a faint gaminess from the lamb. The Lamb Denver Ribs had been grilled over binchotan before serving, which elevated its succulent texture with a contrasting, slightly charred exterior. The smoky nuance inherited by ribs from the binchotan had also made them even more moreish.

Churro Waffle with Kaya Ice-Cream 4.5/5

Rounding off our mod-sin journey was a memorable Churro Waffle with Kaya Ice Cream ($12). Given that the churro was skinner than usual and bore more ridges, it had an excellent balance of crispy golden crust and a chewy, dense, but airy interior. The Homemade Kaya Ice Cream that was nestled perfectly on the churros was on point with our familiar taste of kaya and the right amount of sweetness. The Coconut Cream salted with Shio Kombu enriched the mouthfeel of the dessert and counterbalanced its overall sweetness.

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.


[CLOSED]
The Kongsee
10 & 12 Gemmill Lane
Singapore 069252
Tel: +65 8828 7664
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Wed: 530pm - 1030pm
Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm till late
(Closed on Sun)

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 and then right onto Gemmill Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street. Cross the road and walk to Mohd Ali Lane. Walk to the end of Mohd Ali Lane to Club Street. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to Gemmill Lane. Turn right onto Gemmill Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Bernie’s @ Jalan Riang - New American-Themed Restaurant For Good Authentic American Fare

Step into a world of classic American flavours and nostalgia at Bernie's Restaurant, located in the charming enclave of Jalan Riang near Serangoon Garden. The restaurant offers an authentic American dining experience with a wide array of old-school favourites, such as the Blackened Fish, Mexican Chicken, classic burgers, hot dogs, pastas, soups, and salads.

Why Americans are so heavy Breakfast 4.5/5

On weekend mornings, Bernie's presents a tempting selection of American brunch options, headlined by the generously portioned Why Americans are so heavy Breakfast ($26). This hearty platter features a delightful medley of 2 eggs cooked to your liking, zesty spicy potato or tater tots, a substantial pork sausage, spinach, baked beans, mushrooms, and toast. All are served with your choice of coffee or tea. You can enhance your meal with a $4.50 smoked salmon add-on for extra indulgence. This extensive and satisfying brunch spread is the perfect way to kickstart your weekend mornings at Bernie's.

Giant Friggin’ Cheese Omelette 4.2/5

The Giant Friggin' Cheese Omelette ($17) boasts a generous blend of 3 eggs and 3 cheese slices in a soft and fluffy omelette, accompanied by a side of zesty spicy potatoes or tater tots. Served alongside toast and your choice of coffee or tea, this straightforward yet expertly crafted creation showcases a pronounced yet light cheese flavour. It is a simple and gratifying breakfast option that is every bit enjoyable.

Bernie’s Crispy Waffles 4.5/5

The Bernie's Crispy Waffles ($8.50) is an artfully crafted creation comprising 11 carefully selected ingredients. The waffles boast a flawless balance of a perfectly crispy exterior and a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Topped with maple syrup and butter, Bernie's Crispy Waffles definitely earns a well-deserved reputation as one of the top waffle options available.

Overall, Bernie's Restaurant in Singapore offers an authentic and delightful American dining experience. With its inviting atmosphere and diverse menu, Bernie's is a must visit destination for anyone seeking a genuine taste of American dining.

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.


Bernie's
15-9 Jalan Riang
Singapore 358987
Tel: +65 8842 1127
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 930am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk to Serangoon Bus Interchange (Stop ID 66009). Take bus number 105. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to Jalan Girang. Turn right onto Jalan Girang. At the junction of Jalan Girang, turn left and walk down Jalan Girang towards Jalan Riang. Turn right onto Jalan Riang. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Eixt A. Walk to bus stop at Serangoon MRT station (Stop ID 62139). Take bus number 100, 107, 147, 153 or 853. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road to Wolskel Road. Walk down Wolskel Road to Jalan Riang. Turn right onto Jalan Riang. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

IKKOTEN @ Telok Ayer - Kyoto Kaiseki-style Omakase in Intimate 10-Seater Japanese Restaurant by Chef Brandon Low

Brand new along Telok Ayer Street is IKKOTEN, a Japanese Omakase restaurant helmed by Executive Chef Brandon Low. Chef Brandon has nearly 10 years of experience in Japanese cuisine and is now venturing into offering traditional Kyoto Kaiseki-style omakase.

IKKOTEN translates to "Paradise on Earth", and Chef Brandon hopes to bring the best quality of ingredients and flavours to his diners.

The 10-seater intimate restaurant space was intentionally designed to be clean and minimalistic, with carefully curated Japanese elements. I particularly value how diners can focus on the food in this space.

There is a lunch Omaksae from $88 catering to the working lunch crowd in the area. As for dinner, there is a 9-course Omakase ($198) and a 11-course Hana Dinner Omakase ($298). I had the opportunity to try the latter.

Sakizuke (Chef’s Appetiser): Sesame Tofu with Uni & Dashi Sauce 4/5

Our first course featured Sesame Tofu with Uni & Dashi Sauce, which uses homemade goma tofu. The seasonal Hokkaido sea urchin sits atop and adds a lovely briny creaminess.

Hassun (Seasonal Appetiser): Baby Sweet Fish Tempura 4/5

The seasonal appetiser, which featured Baby Sweet Fish Tempura, was a delight. Chef Brandon shared that he decided on this assortment of items to showcase a variety of flavours.

The sweet fish carried a slight bitterness, the summer fruit fig with egg miso and yuzu had a fun tangy sweetness, while the deep-fried broad bean stuffed with homemade fish cake and pickled vegetables topped with shredded bonito flakes had pleasing nuttiness, sharper tangy notes and savoury bites.

Suimono (Seasonal Clear Soup): Kyoto Clear Dashi Broth 3.8/5

Before moving into the sashimi, we were served a lighter course of greenling fish cooked in Kyoto Clear Dashi Broth.

Tsukuri (Seasonal Sashimi): Threeline Grunt Fish 4/5

Our first sashimi course was the Threeline Grunt Fish. Carefully grilled over binchotan charcoal, these slices were fresh and boasted appetising sour plum notes.

Tsukuri (Seasonal Sashimi): Otoro with Bubble Shoyu Sauce 4.2/5

Our next sashimi course was lightly aburi-ed slices of Nagasaki Otoro topped with a jiggly bubble shoyu sauce. The fatty cut of Otoro had a lovely smokiness infused within. It was a bit saltier than I'd liked with the unique shoyu, but I enjoyed how it was bursting with umami notes.

Chef’s Signature: Negitoro Crystal Waffle 4.2/5

Chef's Special was the Negitoro Crystal Waffle, a reimagined rendition of the classic negitoro and uni hand roll with elevated elements. It was topped with chopped bluefin tuna, Hokkaido uni and seaweed soy sauce on a piece of crunchy translucent rice cracker.

Yakimono (Seasonal Grilled Fish): Grilled Japanese Spanish Mackerel 4/5

The highlight here in the Grilled Japanese Spanish Mackerel dish was definitely its accompanying burnt egg sauce. It was such a unique touch which complemented well. Served on the side was pickled ginger flower, which served to clean your palette.

Takiawase (Seasonal Simmered Dish): Homemade Egg Tofu with Sea Eel 4/5

Next, we were served with the Homemade Egg Tofu with Sea Eel. This dish features in-season Anago topped on smooth egg tofu and a thickened dashi sauce made of kombu bonito. The additional touch of yuzu zest kept the savoury sauce more appealing.

Baby Abalone with Vinegar Jelly 4.2/5

While my dining companions had their beef course: Hay Smoked Charcoal A5 Wagyu Beef with Sesame Ponzu Sauce, Chef Brandon kindly helped replace mine with the Baby Abalone with Vinegar Jelly. The tender slices of baby abalone resulted from stewing for 6 hours. I enjoyed the gentle sourness in the vinegar jelly, combined with fresh yuzu zest and sweet micro tomatoes, which made this a refreshing palate cleanser before the donabe course.

Signature Donabe: Umami Cherry Blossom Shrimp Collagen Claypot Rice 4.5/5

The impressive Signature Donabe was one of my favourite courses. The claypot rice has Niigata rice cooked in a fish collagen dashi stock made from simmering fish bones for almost four hours. It was then plated with a spoonful of truffle caviar and a luxurious touch of 24K gold. Accompanying it was burnt miso soup and homemade pickles.

Mizugashi: Seasonal Fruits

Desserts were the classic Japanese Seasonal Fruits - Shizuoka Crown Melon, Kyoho Grape and Muscat Grape.

Matcha Pudding, Hojicha Tea

We also had a bittersweet Matcha Pudding and hot Hojicha Tea to complement the sweet fruits.

Matcha

I especially appreciated how we ended our meal with a hot cup of Matcha freshly whisked right before us.

Donabe Onigiri

Chef Brandon also carefully shaped the leftover claypot rice into Onigiri for my fellow diners and me to bring home. It was wrapped in bamboo leaves, and we were taught how to best reheat them to enjoy the next day. It was such a lovely thought!

I found their omakase's price tag steeper, but IKKOTEN is one to consider if you are looking for a traditional omakase with modern elements incorporated.

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.


IKKOTEN
86 Telok Ayer
Singapore 048469
Tel: +65 8666 9924
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer MRT (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 7pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the street and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Surrey Hill Grocer @ Arena Country Club (Jurong) - Savours The Flavours of Australia At A Pet-friendly Cafe

Surrey Hill Grocer, located at Arena Country Club in Jurong, is a delightful local gem encompassing a lifestyle grocer and a cafe. This homegrown establishment proudly imports authentic Australian products and produces, offering Singaporeans a taste of the Down Under. During my recent weekend visit for lunch, the cafe was bustling with diners, including their furry friends, as Surrey Hill Grocer is a pet-friendly establishment.

Sweet Potato Fries 3.5/5

As we eagerly awaited our mains, we indulged in the chunky and satisfying Sweet Potato Fries. Crispy on the outside yet delightfully sweet and moist on the inside, these fries paired perfectly with the accompanying dipping sauce, creating a delectable combination.

Wagyu Bolognese 4.5/5

However, the star of the show for me was the Wagyu Bolognese. The spaghetti was flawlessly cooked to al dente, providing a delightful bite. Tossed in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce, it was further enhanced by generous parmesan shavings for an added savoury kick. With each slurp, the ample serving of minced wagyu was a mouthful of pure indulgence.

Melbourne Breakfast Avocado, Poached Egg 4.2/5

For those seeking a taste of Melbourne's vibrant cafe scene, the Melbourne Breakfast Avocado with Poached Egg will surely transport you back to those fond memories. A thick slice of sourdough bread is adorned with luscious Australian mashed avocado, whipped ricotta, vegemite emulsion, honey dukkha, micro herbs, and perfectly poached nuyolk eggs. This hearty breakfast platter will brighten up your day and leave you satisfied.

Hot Honey Fried Chicken Waffle 4.2/5

Another popular choice from the menu is the Hot Honey Fried Chicken Waffle. The crispy yet fluffy waffle is a delightful base for a juicy piece of twice-cooked fried chicken thigh, generously glazed with hot honey for a touch of natural sweetness. Balanced with torched cheddar and shaved parmesan, this dish is accompanied by maple syrup and butter on the side, adding a delightful contrast of flavours.

Strawberry Waffle 4.2/5

To complete our meal, we indulged in the Strawberry Waffle, a heavenly dessert that combines hot and cold contrasting sensations. The ice cream, drenched in a luscious strawberry sauce, alongside the burst of freshness from grapes, blueberries, and granola, culminated in a delightful and satisfying sweet ending to our dining experience at Surrey Hill Grocer.

Overall, Surrey Hill Grocer offers a unique and enjoyable dining experience. With its wide range of delectable dishes and pet-friendly environment, it's a place where food lovers and pet owners alike can come together to savour the flavours of Australia and create cherished memories.


Surrey Hill Grocer
Arena Country Club
511 Upper Jurong Road
#01-01
Singapore 638366
Tel: +65 80357497
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Joo Koon (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Joo Koon MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Benoi Road. Turn left onto Benoi Road. Walk to Upper Jurong Road. Turn right onto Upper Jurong Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Joo Koon MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Joo Koo Bus Interchange (Stop ID 24009). Take bus number 99 or 974. Alight one stop later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes.[Map]

Estate @ Hilton Singapore Orchard - Unveils New Epicurean Buffet Offerings For Lunch And Dinner

Hilton Singapore Orchard's residential all-day buffet restaurant, Estate unveils a range of sumptuous new gourmet offerings on their spread for lunch and dinner from May 5, 2023 onwards. Diners can indulge in a tantalising variety of elevated local and regional dishes, each crafted with the finest and freshest ingredients to delight the taste buds and awaken the senses.

Guests looking to start their dinner light can first head to the Raw and Seafood Bar, where in addition to the succulent seafood available for lunch, diners can also enjoy freshly shucked seasonal oysters on ice and thick cuts of sashimi and sushi rolls.

Exclusively for dinner are the Premium Meats and Live Carvings of Estate Signature Black Truffle Roasted Duck with fried tofu and peanut crust, as well as the locally sourced Whole Barramundi with green pepper, chilli, potato, coriander and spring onion.

Another new highlight exclusive to dinner is a refreshed take on flavours for the Grilled Skewers, where carnivores will find a delectable range of meats well-marinated with homemade marinades created by Sri Lankan chef and butcher Bala from Estate's culinary team. Highlights include Chicken Shish Taouk, Fish Kebab, Beef Kofta, and Black Curry Pork Skewer.

The dinner buffet boasts a daily rotational menu of Western and modern Asian delights that will appeal to every palate. Diners who enjoy French specialities can indulge in the Baked Chicken with Dijon Creme Sauce and Grilled Angus Cube Roll with rich peppercorn brandy cream sauce.

The Carribean Coconut Mussel Curry is not to be missed, where perfectly cooked mussels are drenched in a rich and fragrant coconut curry sauce.

One of our favourites is the cooked-to-order Cantonese-style Wagyu Beef Handmade Noodles with tender beef tendon, white radish and a rich, soothing beef broth at the Noodles Kitchen.

Other Asian specialities include Szechuan-style Spicy and Soup with tofu, black fungus, mushrooms, sea cucumber and shredded chicken to start, and stop by the porridge station for a comforting bowl of Hong Kong-style Chicken Ball Congee with minced chicken ball, braised peanuts, century and salted eggs.

The dessert selection for dinner offers guests an even more comprehensive choice of toothsome treats like Rose Velvet Cake, Mixed Nuts Fudge Brownie, Bread and Butter Pudding. Diners can also head over to the Charcoal Waffle Ice Cream corner to enjoy freshly made charcoal waffles with creamy vanilla and chocolate gelatos.

Estate offers a range of sweet treats served in the restaurant’s iconic glass jars. Highlights include the Black Sesame Taro, Lychee Sakura Velveteen, and Coconut Pineapple Panna Cotta.

Estate Dinner Buffet
• Mondays to Sundays | 6:30 pm to 10 pm
• $88++ per adult (Sundays to Wednesdays)
• $108++ per adult (Fridays, Saturdays, Public Holidays & Eves of Public Holidays)
• Children aged between 6 and 12 years old dine at 50 percent off adult price. Children aged 5 years and below dine for free.
• Estate’s Lobster, Crab and Seafood Dinner Buffet (Every Thursday), priced at $158++ per adult

Estate Lunch Buffet
• Mondays to Saturdays | 12 pm to 2:30 pm
• $72++ per adult (Mondays to Thursdays)
• $78++ per adult (Fridays, Saturdays, Public Holidays & Eves of Public Holidays)
• Children aged between 6 and 12 years old dine at 50 percent off adult price. Children aged 5 years and below dine for free.
• Estate Grand Champagne Brunch (Every Sunday), priced from $158++ per adult

Prices include chilled juices, soft drinks, homemade iced tea, coffee and tea.

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.


Estate
Hilton Singapore Orchard
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
Tel: +65 67374411
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 10pm
Breakfast: 630am – 1030am
Lunch: 12pm – 230pm
Dinner: 630pm – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]