Showing posts with label Wagyu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wagyu. Show all posts

Sunday, October 25, 2026

VUE @ OUE Bayfront - A Taste of Autumn, From Grilled Langoustines to Irish F1 Wagyu

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Perched on the rooftop of OUE Bayfront, VUE presents a dining experience that combines refined cuisine with panoramic views of Marina Bay. For its latest Autumn menu, the restaurant celebrates the season with a curated selection of premium ingredients sourced from land and sea, including Véire Irish Beef, Ostral Regal Irish Oysters, Freshpack Langoustines, Otsuki Bluefin Tuna Harakami and Aqua Green produce.

Showcasing seasonal delicacies through sophisticated culinary techniques, the new menu brings together the natural flavours of premium produce with the restaurant's contemporary approach to dining. From delicate seafood creations to richly marbled Irish Wagyu and an indulgent chocolate dessert, the menu offers a progression of flavours and textures suited for a special dining occasion.

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Mini Langoustine Roll 4.2/5

We started with the Mini Langoustine Roll, a bite-sized appetiser featuring sweet, tender langoustine tucked into a lightly toasted sesame navette. The delicate shellfish offered a naturally sweet, buttery flavour reminiscent of lobster, while the sesame bread provided a pleasant contrast with its lightly crisp exterior and soft, pillowy interior. A caviar dressing brought the elements together, adding a savoury touch that complemented the langoustine's sweetness.

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Kochi Blue Fin Tuna Tartare 4.2/5

Next was the Kochi Bluefin Tuna Tartare, showcasing premium bluefin tuna from Kochi, Japan. The tuna had a buttery texture that melted gently on the palate, with its natural richness enhanced by smoked ikura and salted kelp. The salmon roe contributed bursts of briny salinity with a subtle smoky note, while the kelp deepened the dish's umami profile. Grapefruit segments introduced a refreshing citrus tang, balanced by aromatic lemongrass and a sweet Palermo pepper dressing. The interplay of richness, sweetness and acidity kept the tartare bright and refreshing.

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Veire Irish F1 Wagyu Tataki 4.5/5

The Véire Irish F1 Wagyu Tataki offered a different expression of beef. Lightly seared on the outside while remaining rare within, the Wagyu was tender and richly flavoured, with its marbling lending a buttery mouthfeel. Crispy beef tendon added an airy crunch, creating an enjoyable textural contrast against the soft slices of meat. Delicately glazed fennel added gentle sweetness and aromatic aniseed notes, while the XO chicken jus provided savoury depth that tied the components together.

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Grilled Freshpack Langoustine 4.5/5

For seafood lovers, the Grilled Freshpack Langoustine was another highlight. Expertly grilled to preserve the shellfish's natural sweetness and succulent texture, the langoustine was complemented by a sudachi lime soy glaze. The Japanese citrus lent the dish a bright, clean acidity that balanced the shellfish's buttery sweetness. Carrot brought a touch of natural sweetness, while an airy chipotle foam introduced a subtle smoky heat, adding another layer of flavour without overwhelming the delicate langoustine.

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Grilled Organic Japanese Stem Lettuce 4.2/5

Vegetables also received thoughtful attention in the Grilled Organic Japanese Stem Lettuce. Grilling imparted a gentle char to the exterior while allowing the stalks to retain their refreshing crunch and juicy bite. Crispy garlic added an aromatic crunch, while chilli oil provided a lively kick. The black garlic dressing rounded everything off with a deep, savoury sweetness and fermented umami character. It was a well-considered vegetable dish that balanced freshness, smokiness and richness.

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Vue Risotto 4/5

Moving on to the VUE Risotto, the creamy rice served as a luxurious base for an ocean-inspired combination of ingredients. Tender confit maguro was topped with rich Hokkaido sea urchin, whose creamy, briny sweetness melded into the warm rice. White corn cream added another layer of sweetness, softening the tuna's savoury depth and complementing the sea urchin's distinctive oceanic flavour. The result was a comforting yet indulgent dish that brought together the sea's richness with the natural sweetness of corn.

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Veire Irish F1 Wagyu Duo 4/5

The main course was the Véire Irish F1 Wagyu Duo, featuring two cuts of beef: cube roll and short rib. The cube roll, taken from the ribeye, offered generous marbling and a juicy, tender bite, delivering the rich beef flavour expected of Wagyu. The short rib provided a contrasting texture, with its slow-cooked preparation yielding a tender, richly flavoured bite.

Beer mustard and wild mushroom sauce accompanied the beef, offering two distinct ways to enjoy the meat. The beer mustard brought a tangy sharpness with malty undertones that helped cut through the richness of the Wagyu, while the wild mushroom sauce added earthy, savoury notes that suited the autumnal theme. Together, the two cuts showcased different facets of the beef, from the buttery richness of the cube roll to the deeper, more concentrated flavour of the short rib.

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Banana Mocha 4.2/5

To end the meal, we had the Banana Mocha, a decadent dessert built around 70% Fleur de Cacao chocolate cake. The dense cake delivered an intense cocoa flavour with a pleasant bitterness that kept its richness from becoming cloying. Caramelised bananas added sweetness and a warm, fruity depth, pairing naturally with the dark chocolate. A scoop of Ethiopian coffee ice cream completed the dessert with its aromatic coffee notes and creamy texture, creating a classic mocha combination that balanced the chocolate and banana.

VUE's Autumn menu showcases premium seasonal ingredients, from Japanese seafood and freshly grilled langoustines to Irish F1 Wagyu. Each dish brings together contrasting textures and complementary flavours, while the progression from delicate seafood to rich beef and a chocolate dessert creates a satisfying dining experience. For those looking to mark a special occasion with refined contemporary cuisine and sweeping views of Marina Bay, VUE at OUE Bayfront offers an elegant setting in which to enjoy the flavours of the season.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
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Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Sat: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, October 15, 2026

L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele @ Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre - A Taste of Naples in Singapore with Over 150 Years of Pizza-Making Heritage

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There is something special about a restaurant that has stood the test of time, especially one that has been perfecting the same recipe for over 150 years. Hailing from Naples, Italy, L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele has served traditional Neapolitan pizzas since 1870, staying true to time-honoured recipes and techniques passed down through generations.

Now bringing a slice of Naples to Singapore, the renowned pizzeria continues to celebrate its Italian roots, with its signature pizzas taking centre stage alongside a selection of comforting Italian classics. While the pizzas are undoubtedly the main attraction, we discovered that there is more to enjoy here than just a good slice.

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Polpette Della Nonna 4.2/5

We started our meal with the chef's recommendation, Polpette Della Nonna ($26), a comforting Italian classic of handmade Wagyu beef meatballs made with his grandmother's recipe. Served in a generous helping of tomato sauce and finished with Parmigiano Reggiano, this was a lovely way to kick off our dinner.

The meatballs were beautifully tender and juicy, yielding effortlessly to the fork without being mushy. The tomato sauce really brought the dish together, with a pleasant tanginess that complemented the richness of the Wagyu beef. The Parmigiano Reggiano added another layer of savoury goodness, making this a simple yet satisfying dish that showcased the charm of traditional home-style Italian cooking.

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Linguine Alla Vongole 5/5

Next came my absolute favourite dish of the evening, the Linguine Alla Vongole ($36). Featuring Mancini linguine tossed with fresh Asari clams in a traditional Mediterranean sauce, this seemingly straightforward pasta dish turned out to be the highlight of our meal. The linguine was cooked perfectly al dente, retaining a lovely bite while soaking up the sauce's flavours. What made this dish particularly memorable for me was the sauce itself.

Unlike the more familiar garlicky, briny versions of vongole, this had a subtle sweetness that I suspect came from tomatoes and other vegetables used in its preparation. The flavours were well-balanced, allowing the natural sweetness of the clams to come through without being overpowering. If I had to nitpick, a little fresh chilli would have given it an extra kick and made it even more enjoyable. Nevertheless, this was easily my favourite dish of the night and one I would gladly return for.

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Special of the day Pizza 4.5/5

Of course, a visit to L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele wouldn't be complete without trying its famous Neapolitan-style pizza. I was craving burrata that evening, and the Special Pizza of the Day ($58) was exactly what I wanted!

Topped with a tomato sauce base, 30-month-aged Viani Toscana ham, fresh rocket, cherry tomatoes, and creamy burrata, the combination was a delightful balance of savoury and fresh flavours. The thin pizza base had a lovely bite, with a slightly chewy crust characteristic of Neapolitan-style pizzas. The generous burrata topping was definitely the highlight for me! The special pizza of the day changes every day, so be sure to check with the staff.

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Classic Tiramisu 3.8/5

We ended our meal with the quintessential Italian dessert, Classic Tiramisu ($15). This version leaned towards a creamier texture, with rich, smooth mascarpone layered between ladyfingers and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder.

While the creaminess was enjoyable, the ladyfingers weren't fully soaked, resulting in a slightly drier texture. If you prefer a cream-forward tiramisu with more structure, this would be right up your alley. Personally, I prefer mine a little wetter, with coffee/liquor-soaked ladyfingers that melt in the mouth.

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L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele boasts a lively, bustling atmosphere. The restaurant was packed during our visit, with a queue forming outside by the time we left. Despite the crowd, service remained prompt and efficient.

While the restaurant is renowned for its Neapolitan pizzas, the Linguine Alla Vongole surprisingly stole the show for me. Prices may be on the higher side, but it's a great spot for gathering with friends and family over hearty Italian fare.

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


L'antica Pizzeria da Michele
Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre
8 Club Street
#01-08
Singapore 069472
Tel: +65 9823 5724
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

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

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

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to Mohd Ali Lane. Walk down Mohd Ali Lane. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, October 11, 2026

Les Bouchons @ Rochester Park - Is the $68++ Unlimited Feast Worth It?

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I haven't been back to Les Bouchons at Rochester Park in quite a while, so it was nice to revisit this French steakhouse tucked away in a charming heritage setting. While Les Bouchons has several outlets around Singapore, the Rochester Park outlet remains my favourite for its unique ambience. Housed in a 1940s two-storey black-and-white bungalow and surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a dining experience that feels a world away from the city's hustle and bustle.

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One of the main reasons for my return was its Unlimited $68++ Promotion, which lets diners enjoy free-flow grilled meats, fries, and selected sides. Available daily for both lunch and dinner, this promotion is exclusive to the Rochester Park outlet and looks like an attractive proposition for meat lovers looking to indulge in a French steakhouse feast.

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However, there is a little catch. While the promotion is unlimited, the selection is restricted to Grilled Australian Wagyu Onglet MS4/5, BBQ Half Spatchcock Chicken, Homemade Agria Potatoes French Fries, Mushroom Soup with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Homemade BBQ Sauce and Mesclun Salad. Although the food quality is commendable, I would have appreciated more variety in beef cuts or additional grilled meat options to make the experience more exciting.

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Grilled Australian Wagyu Onglet MS4/5, 4.2/5

The highlight of the unlimited feast was the Grilled Australian Wagyu Onglet MS4/5. Also known as hanger steak, the onglet is a butcher's cut prized for its robust, beefy flavour and satisfying texture. The Australian Wagyu, with its marbling score of 4/5, offered a good balance of richness without being overly fatty.

Grilled to develop a beautiful char on the exterior, the beef was tender and juicy, with a deep, beefy flavour that came through in every bite. I enjoyed the contrast between the lightly smoky, caramelised surface and the succulent meat within. For those who appreciate a good steak with plenty of character, this was a satisfying choice, especially considering that it is included in the unlimited promotion.

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BBQ Half Spatchcock Chicken 4.2/5

The BBQ Half Spatchcock Chicken was another worthy addition to the feast. Flattened before grilling, the chicken developed a nicely charred exterior while retaining its natural juices. The skin carried a smoky aroma, while the meat remained succulent and flavourful.

Paired with the homemade BBQ sauce, the chicken had a pleasant balance of savoury and smoky flavours, with a touch of sweetness from the sauce. It also offered a welcome alternative to the beef, though I would have liked more grilled meat options to round out the selection.

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Mushroom Soup with Extra Virgin Oil 4.5/5

Among the sides, the Mushroom Soup stood out and earned the highest rating of the unlimited selection. Rich, earthy, and comforting, the soup had a velvety consistency, with the deep, savoury flavours of mushrooms coming through beautifully. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil added a fragrant finish, lending a subtle fruity note that complemented the earthiness of the mushrooms. It was a comforting start to the meal and something I would happily return to, even outside the unlimited promotion.

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Mesclun Salad 4/5

The Mesclun Salad offered a refreshing contrast to the heavier grilled meats. A mix of tender baby greens was tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, delivering a light, crisp bite that helped cut through the richness of the beef and chicken. Simple but effective, it served its purpose as a palate cleanser and added some freshness to an otherwise meat-centric meal.

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Homemade Agria Potatoes French Fries 4.2/5

No steakhouse feast would be complete without a serving of fries, and the Homemade Agria Potatoes French Fries did not disappoint. Made with Agria potatoes, known for their suitability for frying, the fries came with a golden exterior and a satisfying crunch. The insides were fluffy and light, creating a pleasing textural contrast. They were enjoyable on their own or dipped into the homemade BBQ sauce, and having them available for free-flow made it easy to keep the sides coming throughout the meal.

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Homemade Foie Gras Terrine 4/5

Beyond the unlimited promotion, I also ordered a few items from the à la carte menu, starting with the Homemade Foie Gras Terrine ($28). The terrine offered the rich, buttery character expected of foie gras, with a smooth, indulgent texture that melted pleasantly on the palate. It was served with onion chutney and toasted bread, which provided a welcome contrast to the richness of the duck liver. The chutney's sweetness balanced the foie gras, while the toasted bread added crunch and made each bite more enjoyable. It was a decadent appetiser that brought a touch of classic French indulgence to the meal.

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Classic French Onion Soup 5/5

Another highlight was the Classic French Onion Soup ($20), served with a crouton generously topped with melted Emmental cheese. The soup had a deeply savoury broth enriched with the sweetness of slowly caramelised onions. The long cooking process allowed the onions to develop a mellow, concentrated flavour that blended beautifully with the beef stock. Each spoonful was comforting and full-bodied without losing the natural sweetness of the onions. The cheesy crouton was the finishing touch. The Emmental cheese was melted until gooey and golden, adding a nutty flavour and creamy texture to the dish. Breaking through the cheesy topping to reach the steaming broth beneath was particularly satisfying. This classic French bistro staple was executed well and was one of my favourite dishes of the meal.

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Creme Brulee 4.2/5

For dessert, I had the Crème Brûlée ($15), a timeless French classic featuring silky baked custard beneath a layer of caramelised sugar. The highlight was the crisp sugar crust, which cracked satisfyingly under the spoon to reveal the smooth, creamy custard beneath. The custard had a rich vanilla flavour, while a subtle citrus note added brightness and helped balance the sweetness of the caramelised topping. It was a comforting and well-executed dessert that stayed true to the appeal of this classic French favourite.

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Signature Homemade Traditional Tiramisu 4.2/5

The Signature Homemade Traditional Tiramisu ($15) rounded off the meal on a sweet note. Made with espresso and Amaretto-soaked ladyfingers layered with whipped mascarpone, it offered a lovely combination of coffee, cream and subtle almond notes. The mascarpone was smooth and airy, giving the dessert a light, cloud-like texture despite its richness. The espresso brought a pleasant bitterness that balanced the creamy layers, while the Amaretto added a gentle aromatic sweetness. It was a familiar and comforting rendition of the Italian classic, making it a pleasant way to end the meal.

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Les Bouchons Rochester Park remains a charming destination for French steakhouse dining, with its heritage black-and-white bungalow and lush surroundings adding plenty of character to the experience. The Unlimited $68++ Promotion offers good value for diners who enjoy grilled beef, chicken, and classic sides, especially with the option to return for more of the included items. That said, the limited selection does take away some of the excitement of an unlimited feast. While the Grilled Australian Wagyu Onglet and BBQ Half Spatchcock Chicken were both enjoyable, I would have liked to see more beef cuts or other grilled meats on offer.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Les Bouchons Rochester
10 Rochester Park
Rochester Commons
Singapore 139221
Tel: +65 69048972
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit C. Take the sheltered walkway and walk towards Star Vista. Turn left onto Rochester Drive. Walk to the traffic junction of Rochester Drive and Vista Exchange Green. Turn right onto Vista Exchange Green. Walk down Vista Exchange Green and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]


Saturday, October 3, 2026

Edge @ Pan Pacific Singapore - “The Cocoa Connection”, An Exclusive Chocolate-themed Buffet, Exploring Chocolate Across Cultures and Cuisines

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Edge at Pan Pacific Singapore has partnered with leading gourmet food supplier Classic Fine Foods to present “The Cocoa Connection”, an exclusive chocolate-themed buffet. Available now through 8 November 2026, this limited-time dinner experience brings together Executive Chef Andy Oh and Executive Pastry Chef Edina Si from Pan Pacific Singapore, alongside Classic Fine Foods’ Executive Chef José Luis Del Amo. Exploring chocolate through their respective diverse culinary lenses, the buffet offers a lineup of unique and tantalising expressions of chocolate across both sweet and savoury creations.

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I found the Grand Carving Theatre to showcase some of the best chemistry between cocoa and red meat. Oven-roasted Leg of Lamb with Cocoa Spice Rub, Slow-roasted Rib Eye and House-smoked Crispy Pork Belly are served with Cocoa-infused Rosemary Jus. The jus, with its accentuated dark undertones, was a fitting match for the meats, particularly the lamb and beef.

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Over at the Chef’s Signature Creation counter, Charcoal-grilled Chocolate-fed Wagyu Beef comes with Caramelised Onion and Dark Chocolate Jus, further accentuating the rich, beefy notes of the buttery wagyu.

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The International Delights selection features Braised Pork Rib with Dark Cocoa and Coffee Glaze, which reminded me of the coffee-glazed pork ribs commonly found at zi char stalls. Truffle and Wild Mushroom Ragout Pasta with 75% Dark Chocolate Shavings was an interesting combination, although I found the cocoa element less essential to the dish.

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The buffet spread’s key draw was undoubtedly the dessert selection, with an array of chocolate creations adorned with cacao beans. At its purest, the buffet offered a luxurious Weiss Chocolate Tasting Flight, followed by Assorted Chocolate Pralines that surprised me with their velvety fillings.

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We also tried Chef José’s speciality desserts, including the Chocolate Vanilla Caramel Cake and the visually attractive Gianduja Yuzu Petit Four, which contrasts rich hazelnut chocolate with bright citrus notes.

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Chef Edina’s creations showcased different cocoa profiles. The Chocolate Tart with Kumquat uses Kacinkoa 85%, pairing its deep, bitter notes with the fruit’s tartness, while the French Chocolate Mousse uses Mahoe 76%. Don’t miss Edge’s Signature Hazelnut Royaltine, where creamy Mahoe Milk Chocolate 43% meets a satisfying hazelnut crunch.

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For something more comforting, the Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding uses Tevenn 38%, offering a softer, sweeter profile. One of my favourites was the Blackout Cake, with its dense texture and intense chocolatey character. The staple Chocolate Fountain with Assorted Condiments was also a mainstay, rounding off an indulgent dessert selection.

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“The Cocoa Connection” offers an extensive selection of chocolate-inspired sweet and savoury creations, making it a haven for chocolate aficionados.

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‘The Cocoa Connection’ at Edge
1 October to 8 November 2026, available daily.
Weekday Dinner: Mondays to Thursdays, from 6pm to 10pm, $108++ per adult, $54++ per child (6 to 12 years old)
Weekend Dinner: Fridays to Sundays, from 6pm to 10pm, $118++ per adult, $59++ per child (6 to 12 years old)
All buffet prices are inclusive of free-flow soft drinks.


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Words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Edge
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 6826 8240
Facebook
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Website
Nearest MRT: Promenade (DT, CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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