Ginger.Lily @ Hilton Singapore Orchard - Latest Botanical Afternoon Tea: From Root to Bloom

Nestled within Hilton Singapore Orchard, the serene tea lounge of Ginger.Lily offers a tranquil retreat amidst the bustle of Orchard Road. With its airy, conservatory-inspired interiors and lush botanical accents, it provides a lovely setting to savour their latest Botanical Afternoon Tea: From Root to Bloom, for an afternoon of elegant pastries, chit chat and warm brews.

Botanical Afternoon Tea: From Root to Bloom 4.2/5

This seasonal afternoon tea is presented by Executive Sous Chef Cindy Khoo in collaboration with premium French dairy brand Président Professionnel and Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) chef-confectioner Gabriel Le Quang. Inspired by the journey "from root to bloom", the menu draws on nature's forms and flavours to create dishes that are both gorgeous and quietly inventive.

Guests enjoy free-flow coffee and an artisanal Pryce tea selection, a delightful opportunity to sample a variety of brews throughout the afternoon. And for a little extra charm, the tea experience comes with complimentary stickers featuring hand-drawn illustrations by local artist @pwendraws.

Bergamot Gougère

First, we were served a light bite of Bergamot Gougère, aromatic and delicate. The baked choux puff was airy, topped with a crisp Gruyère cheese crust and shaved cheese. An easy and enjoyable bite to start the afternoon.

Savouries tray

Next, a pretty silver 3-tiered stand of savouries arrived at the table. I enjoyed this course a lot, as the selection offered a refreshing departure from typical afternoon tea fare. I also appreciated that the bites were less bread-heavy than on their previous menu, making each piece light enough to leave room to savour the sweets that followed.

Cured Trout Crêpe

Delicate crêpes rolled into neat layers around Cured Trout, finished with a light shichimi cream. Popped this into my mouth, and it was gone in one bite.

Tartiflette Croquette with Curry Pearls

Inspired by the classic Alpine dish, this Croquette combines Reblochon cheese, Hokkaido potatoes, and caramelised bacon into a crisp golden ball. The filling is indulgent and hearty, while the Japanese curry pearls bring a subtle spice that cuts through the richness.

Fungi Gyoza

A highlight was the Fungi Gyoza, filled with locally farmed mushrooms and béchamel, where the earthy umami of the mushrooms was enhanced by the sauce's creamy richness.

Smoked Duck Chip

Dainty cubes of citrus-marinated smoked duck are paired with bright orange segments and a touch of yuzu, all balanced on a delicate rice paper chip. The crisp base contrasts with the tender duck, and the citrus adds freshness to the flavours.

Shrimp Toast

Marinated shrimp atop crisp, golden toast, finished with sriracha mayonnaise. Tiny lime pearls add bursts of tangy brightness, and together they make for a delicious toast. The prawn-to-toast ratio was very good.

Braised Wagyu Brûlée

Another highlight was the Wagyu puff pastry braised with Ginger. Lily's house-blend dark chocolate, an unexpected pairing that worked surprisingly well, the bittersweet chocolate adding depth to the buttery, flaky pastry and tender wagyu. This course is presented with a touch of theatre, prepared tableside with some flames.

Sweets resin case

The sweets were just so pretty, showcased in a clear resin case by Singapore social enterprise JOJOMAMA, adorned with colourful pressed dried flowers. Each cake inside resembled a miniature edible sculpture.

Top Tier: Matcha Swan, Rose & Olive Oil

The Matcha Swan caught my eye immediately. Shaped gracefully like a swan, it features airy matcha Chantilly, a crunchy pistachio praline, and fresh raspberries perched delicately on its back.

The Rose & Olive Oil cake had an interesting flavour combination. Fragrant rose is paired with lychee and raspberry compote. Crafted to resemble a pink rose, it is stunning, though the olive oil made it a slightly acquired taste.

Second Tier: Chocolate & Pomelo, Président's Cheesecake

I was pleased to have at least one chocolate dessert on the menu, and Chocolate & Pomelo offered just that. The tart is flaky filo dough, filled with chocolate cream, layered with tangy citrus gel and fresh pomelo. This was my favourite sweet of the afternoon.

Meanwhile, the Président's Cheesecake features a smooth pink-glazed exterior and showcases creamy Camembert, perfectly complemented by sweet-tart blueberry compote.

Third Tier: Pear & Shiso barquette, Japanese Strawberry & Dill

The Pear & Shiso barquette was fragrant with lemon curd, coconut cream barquette, fresh pear, and shiso, blending sweet, tart, and herbal notes in every bite that left me feeling pleasantly uplifted.

The Japanese Strawberry & Dill combines light citrus sponge with Japanese strawberry compote and dill pearls, though I found it a bit too sweet for my liking.

Bottom Tier: Scones

I was at this point getting a little too full to finish eating the scones at the table, and took home the Vanilla & Cranberry Seed Scones. They were delicious after being warmed up, and paired really well with the yuzu strawberry confit, citrus vanilla confit, and clotted cream.

An afternoon at Ginger.Lily is time well spent, with professional, friendly service and an afternoon tea that is charming to look at, and a pleasure to eat. For this particular menu, though, the savouries were the highlight for me, outshining the sweets. I left the tea lounge feeling refreshed and relaxed.

Time: 12pm to 5.30pm (last seating for walk-ins at 4.30pm) Please note each table is reserved for a two-hour seating.
Price: $65++ per diner, with coffee and tea served throughout
MOËT & CHANDON IMPÉRIAL BRUT CHAMPAGNE: additional $15 ++ for a glass or $65++ for a bottle

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ginger.Lily
Hilton Singapore Orchard
Level 5
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
Tel: +65 6831 6273
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am to 1am

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 the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

The Orchard Cafe @ Orchard Hotel Singapore - OZ “Meats” Buffet, A Vibrant Celebration of Premium Australian Produce, Culinary Craftsmanship, and Bold Flavours.

The Orchard Cafe at Orchard Hotel Singapore has recently launched the OZ "Meats" Buffet, showcasing the best of premium Australian produce through a lineup of curated dishes and live stations. Complementing the hearty offerings is an array of decadent desserts, ranging from classics to those inspired by Australian favourites.

Nachos Station

The Nachos Station gets things off to a lively start, featuring AUS grain-fed beef or pork con carne. Paired with condiments such as tender beans, creamy guacamole, spicy salsa, sweet corn and sour cream, it makes for a fun and flavourful starter to the buffet.

Aussie-Style BBQ Pork Shoulder

Slow-roasted AUS Grain-fed Striploin.

At the Carving Station, diners can enjoy Slow-roasted AUS Grain-fed Striploin and Aussie-Style BBQ Pork Shoulder. I personally favoured the pork shoulder, which was noticeably juicier and more tender, with flavours beautifully complemented by the accompanying BBQ sauce.

Halibut

For seafood lovers, the Australian Catch of the Day was Halibut served with Béarnaise sauce. It was a lighter, more delicate option that balances the heavier meat offerings.

AUS Wagyu Beef Sliders

The AUS Wagyu Beef Sliders are also not to be missed, with fluffy buns sandwiching flavoursome patties and melted cheese. These relatively humble-looking bites turned out to be one of my personal favourites.

Short Plate

Lebanese Style Lamp Chop

Another highlight is the Charcoal Grill Station, where AUS Beef Tri-tip, Short Plate and Veal Tenderloin are flame-grilled over charcoal, imparting enticing smoky notes to the succulent meats.

Tim Tam Tart with Berries

Lamingtons

The dessert selection was an absolute joy, rounding off the buffet on a sweet note. Among the seasonal selections, the Tim Tam Tart with Berries was indulgently rich with chocolate, delivering a delightful nutty crunch with every bite. Lamingtons offered a simple pleasure with soft butter cake coated with desiccated coconut, executed well with just the right level of sweetness.

Passion Fruit Pavlova with Fresh Fruit

The Passion Fruit Pavlova with Fresh Fruit was another standout, crisp around the edges with a slightly chewy centre, carrying bright tropical notes of mango and passion fruit.

Bourbon, Rum & Raisin Bread Pudding

The Hot Dessert Station was particularly irresistible, featuring indulgent treats such as Salty Peanut Brownie Pudding, Bourbon, Rum & Raisin Bread Pudding, and a comforting Baked Rice Pudding with Raspberry.

OZ "Meats" Buffet is available from now to 30 April 2026.

Weekday Lunch (Monday to Friday): $88 per person
Weekday Dinner (Monday to Thursday): $102 per person
Weekend Lunch (Saturday to Sunday): $98 per person
Weekend Dinner (Friday to Sunday): $112 per person

For the months of March and April 2026, make a reservation via https://www.millenniumhotels.com/tc/sgfoodonfoot to enjoy a complimentary glass of The Orchard Cafe Signature Drink.

Photos and 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.


The Orchard Cafe
Lobby
442 Orchard Road
Singapore 238879
Tel: +65 67396565
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Wheelock Place. Walk to the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Angullia Park. Cross the road to the Royal Thai Embassy. Turn left and continue down Orchard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

Barrel Story of Hikibi @ Cecil Street - Modern izakaya That Brings Fire, Whisky, and Craftsmanship Together Under The Artistry of Hibiki

Barrel Story of Hikibi marks a global milestone as the first Hibiki-led concept restaurant to open outside of Japan. Located in the heart of Singapore’s CBD, this modern izakaya is guided by the spirit of omotenashi — Japanese hospitality expressed through sincerity, attentiveness, and thoughtful details. Bringing together wood-fire cooking, refined flavour construction, and whisky pairing, Barrel Story of Hikibi presents a contemporary interpretation of the Japanese izakaya experience. Open for both lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers flexibility through a well-curated à la carte menu alongside set dining experiences.

Festive Yu Sheng (pre-order required) 4/5

Given the Chinese New Year period, we began with the Festive Yu Sheng, which requires advance ordering. It came as a pleasant surprise to find Yu Sheng on the menu of a modern Japanese izakaya. It was an unexpected yet festive nod to local dining culture.

Smoked Nuts and Raisin 4.5/5

The Smoked Nuts and Raisin ($8) were dangerously addictive. Infused with deep smokiness, each bite was moreish and set the tone perfectly for the meal ahead.

Prosciutto, Cream Cheese & Strawberry Maki Roll 4/5

The Prosciutto, Cream Cheese & Strawberry Maki Roll ($18 for 4 pcs) was a delightful play on contrasts. Cream cheese and strawberry are wrapped in savoury prosciutto, resulting in a harmonious balance of sweet, salty, and creamy with pleasing textural layers. A Shine Muscat variation is also available for those seeking an elevated fruit-forward option.

Suckling Pig 4.5/5

The Suckling Pig ($22) came in the form of boneless pork belly cubes, crowned with crisp crackling skin and marinated in Chinese spices. Beneath the brittle skin lies a luscious layer of fat and tender meat. Paired with Japanese mustard, the dish felt familiar yet refined, reminiscent of our local sio bak, but executed with finesse.

Tonsoku Harumaki 4.2/5

The Tonsoku Harumaki ($12/pc) offered a clever reinterpretation of a spring roll. Braised pig trotter is wrapped in spring roll skin and deep-fried till golden. It immediately brought to mind Kong Bak Pau, but reimagined in a crispy, handheld format.

Uni-corn Croquette 4.5/5

A standout dish of the night, the Uni-corn Croquette ($24 for 2 pcs) delivered on both creativity and indulgence. Encased in a crisp shell is creamy corn, topped generously with uni. It’s an unexpected yet winning combination that truly impressed my palate.

BARREL Chicken Rice 4.2/5

The BARREL Chicken Rice ($46) is a Hibiki-inspired take on Singapore’s iconic dish. Garnished with caviar and served with an in-house special sauce, this is likely the most expensive chicken rice in town. Price aside, the flavours were spot on, from the fragrant rice to the chilli and ginger sauces, all on par with a good traditional chicken rice stall.

Aburi Wagyu Donabe 4.2/5

The Aburi Wagyu Donabe ($68) featured aburi A5 wagyu, cured egg yolk, green onion, and nori atop flavoursome rice. Comforting and deeply satisfying, the charred wagyu paired beautifully with the rice for a luxurious yet soulful finish.

Soft Serve “HIBIK!” 4.5/5

We wrapped up the meal with the Soft Serve “HIBIK!” ($12), made with organic honey and Maldon salt. Soft, creamy, and lightly sweet, the dessert was elevated by Hibiki-infused honey, a subtle but elegant finale to the meal.

Barrel Story of Hikibi successfully bridges Japanese craftsmanship with local familiarity, delivering a dining experience that feels both refined and approachable. Whether you’re here for whisky pairings, inventive izakaya dishes, or a luxurious twist on comfort food, Barrel offers a compelling reason to visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Barrel Story of Hikibi
The Quadrant
19 Cecil Street
Singapore 049704
Tel: +65 80287100
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

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

Gyusei Gyukatsu Wagyu Steakhouse @ Hotel Clover - First Halal-certified Japanese A5 Charcoal-Smoked Wagyukatsu Specialist

Gyusei Gyukatsu Wagyu Steakhouse, located at Hotel Clover, brings diners the world’s first Halal-certified gyukatsu experience. Here, gyukatsu (fried beef cutlets) are crafted using exquisite Halal A5 Wagyu sourced from Japan.

A5 Japanese Ribeye Gyukatsu 4.5/5

The A5 Japanese Ribeye (120g, $69) is one of the most sought-after items on the menu, delivering a melt-in-the-mouth, buttery texture juxtaposed against a crisp panko crust. Using BMS 11–12 Wagyu, the meat is lightly coated in panko and then sent for a quick deep-frying to preserve its rare doneness.

The breaded beef steak is then served with a personal konro, a hot stone grill brushed with Wagyu tallow, allowing you to cook each slice further to your preferred doneness. Accompanying the steak is an impressive assortment of 10 condiments: yuzu kosho, kimchi, ponzu radish, katsu sauce, fresh lemon, shichimi, Maldon sea salt, freshly grated wasabi, mustard, and sansho pepper. According to the diner seated beside me, this setup mirrors exactly what she experienced back in Japan!

Each set also includes an umami-rich onsen egg (perfect as a sauce for the meat or on top of rice), along with free-flowing cabbage, rice, and miso soup. A notable touch by Gyusei lies in the ornate plates used to present the gyukatsu, handcrafted in small batches by homegrown Singapore artists Kirmaine of Kir Ceramics and The Clay People. Do take a moment to admire these craftworks as you enjoy your meal.

Menchikatsu 3/5

XL Hyogo oysters 5/5

Sides include XL Hyogo Oysters, which were impressively plump and wonderfully fresh on my palate. I also tried the Menchikatsu, a minced beef cutlet made with 100g of A5 Wagyu blended with Australian ground beef. While flavourful, I felt it could be more tender and juicy, as it came across slightly compacted.

For those who prefer a meatier, more robust beef flavour, the menu also offers Australian Wagyu selections (BMS 3+), offering a more pronounced beef flavour at a gentler price point.

From 19 Feb - 31 Mar 2026, enjoy a FREE 60g A5 Sirloin Wagyukatsu with every 2 Wagyukatsu sets ordered. With only 24 seats, reservations are recommended at Gyusei Gyukatsu Wagyu Steakhouse. Make your booking here: https://linktr.ee/gyusei_gyukatsu_sg

Photos and 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.


Gyusei Gyukatsu Wagyu Steakhouse
Hotel Clover
775 North Bridge Road
Level 1
Singapore 198743
Tel: +65 8031 4122
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Thu, Sun: 12pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon-Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT Station. Take Exit B or E. Walk to North Bridge Road. Walk down North Bridge Road towards Sultan Mosque direction. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]