Showing posts with label Watermelon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Watermelon. Show all posts

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Fourgather Thai Casual Dining @ Suntec City Mall - An UnFourgather Thai Meal with Its Second Outlet

Yum Salmon 2

Following the success of their first outlet at Amoy Hotel, modern Thai restaurant Fourgather officially opened its doors at Suntec City in February 2025. This new 66-seater space introduces an exciting menu that masterfully blends traditional Thai flavours with contemporary Western influences. For the first time, Fourgather also launched a dedicated kid's menu, making it a welcoming dining destination for all ages.

Drinks 1
Thai Chrysanthemum, Lemongrass Drink and Thai Milk Tea

We kicked off our meal with three signature Thai beverages: Thai Chrysanthemum ($5.50), Lemongrass Drink ($4.50), and Thai Milk Tea ($4.50). Each drink was well-balanced in flavour, refreshingly aromatic and not overly sweet.

Watermelon Salad 1
Watermelon Salad V2 4.8/5

The Watermelon Salad V2 ($16.90) was a standout dish. Juicy watermelon slices were topped with a tangy Thai dressing, crisp dried fish and peanuts, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savoury, and mildly spicy flavours. The original version, served at their Amoy Street branch, featured cubed watermelon, but this updated rendition felt even more refined and beautifully presented.

Yum Salmon 1
Yum Salmon 3.8/5

The Yum Salmon ($26.90) is a popular Thai dish featuring raw salmon slices tossed in a special Thai sauce. While the flavours were fresh, the choice of salmon cut left something to be desired and we found ourselves wishing for a spicier kick.

Fourgather Pork Party Platter 2
Fourgather Pork Party Platter 4.2/5

The Fourgather Pork Party Platter ($35.90) is a must-try for pork lovers. It features a delightful mix of Thai-style Moo Ping, Crispy Pork Belly, Tender Pork Cutlet, and Grilled Pork Jowl. This platter is perfect for sharing (serving 2–3 people). Accompanied by sticky rice, fresh vegetables, and assorted condiments, every bite was flavourful and well-executed.

Prime Sirloin Steak with Sticky Rice and Papaya Salad 2

Prime Sirloin Steak with Sticky Rice and Papaya Salad 3
Prime Sirloin Steak with Sticky Rice and Papaya Salad 3.5/5

For a tableside Aburi show, order the Prime Sirloin Steak with Sticky Rice and Papaya Salad ($47.90). The top-grade sirloin is seared before being torched tableside. It comes with sticky rice, Thai papaya salad and a zesty Nam Jim Jiao sauce. We opted for the Thai style (instead of Plara) with an extra spice option, though the spice level was barely noticeable. You can also upgrade to a more marbled cut for an additional $4, which we did.

Tom Yum Mama Hotpot 1
Tom Yum Mama Hotpot 3.8/5

Perfect for sharing, the Tom Yum Mama Hotpot ($36.90) serves 3–4 people and is packed with seafood and tender pork simmered in a rich tom yum broth, topped with a soft-cooked egg. While the broth was aromatic, we found ourselves wishing for more spice and tang. Pro tip: Avoid letting the Mama noodles sit for too long, as they tend to get soggy.

Tom Yum Seafood Pasta 1

Tom Yum Seafood Pasta 2
Tom Yum Seafood Pasta 4/5

If you prefer a milder tom yum flavour, the Tom Yum Seafood Pasta ($26.90) is a fantastic option. This dish features a fragrant, creamy tom yum sauce tossed with seafood and topped with crispy lemongrass shreds. It is a well-executed fusion dish we truly enjoyed.

Kids Set B 1
Kids Set B

Fourgather's kid-friendly approach includes four different Kids Sets served in adorable car or airplane bowls. Prices start from $11.90, with customisable mains, sides, and drinks. We tried Set B, in which we opted for Thai Fried Rice with a sunny-side-up egg, cheese chicken balls, tater tots, and apple juice. There are four different Kids' Sets for your little ones while the adults indulge in spicier Thai flavours.

Restaurant

Fourgather's extensive menu caters to all palates, offering everything from classic Thai flavours to inventive fusion dishes. The modern yet cosy ambience, accentuated by neon signs and eclectic decor, makes it a great spot for a quick lunch, a casual dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends and family.

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


Fourgather Thai Casual Dining
Suntect City Tower 2
3 Temasek Boulevard
#01-505
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 8090 7480
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Monday, September 16, 2024

Joie @ Orchard Central - Meatless Fine Dining with A Rooftop Dining View

Grilled Mushroom Steak 1

Perched atop Orchard Central, Joie offers a unique fine-dining experience that is not just for vegetarians or vegans. With a creative meatless menu featuring a delightful Korean twist, this upscale restaurant caters to all occasions, whether you're celebrating a memorable moment or simply enjoying a meal with a view.

Ambience 2

Surrounded by the lush greenery of a rooftop garden, we were fortunate to be seated at one of the best tables, perfectly positioned to watch the sunset as we enjoyed our dinner.

Welcome Drink 1
Welcome Drink, Roasted Korean Sunchoke Tea and Artemisia Tea

We had the 6-Course Dinner, priced at $78++ per person, which includes three starters, a vegetable dish, a main course, and dessert. As there were 2 of us, we had the opportunity to sample all the options available on the course menu.

Watermelon Tuna Tartare 1
“Tuna Tartare” 4/5

This dish truly impressed with its creative use of watermelon to mimic tuna. Served with crispy rice paper, sesame powder, egg yolk gel, apricot, and pickled pears, the Tuna Tartare was both appetising and refreshing - a perfect start to the meal.

Crispy Layered Fries 1
Joie’s Crispy Layered Fries 4/5

An elevated take on a classic, these Crispy Layered Fries are made with imported potatoes from Holland and served with fermented kimchi, gochujang mayo, and black garlic mayo. Each fry offers a combination of textures and flavours that make every bite unique.

Charcoal Makgeolli Slider 1
Charcoal Makgeoli Slider 3.8/5

The Charcoal Makgeoli Slider, which includes halloumi cheese sandwiched between charcoal buns, comes in two pieces per person. The combination of pickled radish, arugula, kimchi puree, and the signature egg yolk gel make this dish enjoyable, although not a standout.

Ddukgalbi Century Scotch Egg 1
“Ddukgalbi” Century Scotch Egg 4/5

An additional starter from the ala carte menu we get to try was the "Ddukgalbi" Century Scotch Egg, a unique twist on the traditional British dish made with century egg. Paired with gochujang and black garlic mayo, this dish is a must-try for century egg lovers.

Grilled Roots Vegetables 1
Grilled Roots Vegetables 2.8/5

Muk Heirloom Cherry Tomato Salad 1
Heirloom Cherry Tomato Salad & Burratina 3/5

We had both vegetable options on the menu, but unfortunately, both dishes were underwhelming compared to our starters. The Grilled Root Vegetables are tough and lacking flavour. As for the Heirloom Cherry Tomato Salad & Burratina, while the sweet cherry tomatoes were enjoyable, the burrata was unfortunately dry. The dish was garnished with olive oil powder, a unique touch, though it didn't elevate the overall experience.

Mapadubu Lasagna 1
Mapadubu Lasagna 3/5

Grilled Mushroom Steak 2
Grilled Summer Mushroom Steak 4/5

We also got both options for the mains on the course menu. Despite being inspired by mapo tofu, the Mapadubu Lasagna lacked the distinct flavours of the dish. The texture of the lasagna sheets was inconsistent; they were soft in some areas and tough in others, which detracted from the overall enjoyment.

Grilled Mushroom Steak 5

The Grilled Summer Mushroom Steak was the highlight of the main courses. Served on a hot plate with homemade black pepper sauce, the monkey head mushroom's texture closely mimicked a steak, making this a satisfying dish.

Basque Burnt Cheesecake 1
Burnt Basque Cheese Cake 3/5

Unfortunately, the Burnt Basque Cheese Cake served with an Oreo crust, and homemade milk ice cream was too dense, more reminiscent of a New York cheesecake than a Basque-style one. It was enjoyable but could be lighter in texture. Joie has recently added a new dessert option to the menu - Black Sesame Ice Cream - which was unavailable at our visit.

Ambience 1

Joie also offers other set lunch and dinner options daily:

• 3-Course: $38++ per person (lunch only, Monday to Friday except public holidays and eve of public holidays)
• 5-Course: $58++ per person
• 6-Course: $78++ per person
• 8-Course: $98++ per person (available for both lunch and dinner)

Ambience 3

The spacious restaurant includes four private dining rooms, perfect for hosting special gatherings.

Entrance

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


Joie
Orchard Central
#12-01
181 Orchard Road
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 9663 0901
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit C or D. Walk to Orchard Central. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

True Cost @ Suntec City - Rooftop Restaurant and Bar Overlooking Suntec City Offering Asian and Modern European Flavours

IMG_6259

True Cost in Suntec City's Sky Garden prides itself on offering diners food and alcohol at low markups. The menu primarily features Asian and Modern European flavours, complemented by an extensive beverage list, which includes house-made cocktails, mocktails, wines, spirits, and beers.

IMG_6150

The rooftop restaurant and bar provide a scenic overlook of Suntec City, with gorgeous natural sunlight pouring in during the day.

For a complimentary entry, visiting between 3pm to 5pm on weekdays and 9pm to 10pm daily is best. Outside these times, a moderate entrance fee of $5 per person for lunch between 12pm and 3pm and $10 per person for dinner between 5pm and 9pm. However, there's a 50% discount on the fees daily from 5pm if you opt for bar seating.

IMG_6257

IMG_6258
Watermelon Ceviche 3.8/5

We began with the refreshing Watermelon Ceviche ($9). The combination of tomatoes, feta cheese, pecans, olive oil, and watermelon created a delightful mix of textures and flavours. The fragrant and crunchy pecans were a standout.

IMG_6255

IMG_6256
Octopus Carpaccio 2.8/5

Next, we tried the Octopus Carpaccio ($15.95), which was unfortunately less impressive. The sliced octopus, tossed in a bright orange dressing with tahini, sundried tomatoes, and za'atar, was too chewy and tough. At its price point, it felt slightly overpriced.

IMG_6259

IMG_6260
BBQ Pork Ribs 4/5

True Cost's BBQ Pork Ribs ($18.50) appeared to be a popular choice among diners. Served alongside grilled corn and kimchi cucumbers, the fall-off-the-bone ribs had a pleasant hint of smokiness. Although the slightly spiced corn was a touch dry, the overall dish was satisfying.

IMG_6261

IMG_6262
Crab Linguini 4/5

For our second main dish, we had the Crab Linguine ($22). The al dente linguine was tossed in a rich, savoury, buttery bisque sauce with ample crab meat.

IMG_6263
Baklava Sundae 4.2/5

Dessert was the Greek-inspired Baklava Sundae ($11), which was made with a base of sunflower seed mousse, pistachio ice cream, and cherry syrup drizzled over. We broke into the thin, super flaky pastry and were pleasantly surprised by the balanced sweetness. The layered textures - from the crushed nuts and crisp pastry to the nutty sunflower seed mousse and tangy cherry syrup, were delightful. While a richer pistachio ice cream would have been preferred, it worked good as a sharing dessert to end the meal.

IMG_6264

Reservations to the restaurant can be made at their official website, https://www.truecostsingapore.com/.

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.


True Cost
Suntec City
SkyGarden
#03-302/303
3 Temasek Boulevard
Tel: +65 88940615
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 10.30pm

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

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

Saturday, January 6, 2024

Fireplace by Bedrock @ One Holland Village - Brand New Wood-fired Grill Concept by Bedrock

Fireplace2

Fireplace by Bedrock, nestled in the vibrant enclave of One Holland Village, emerges as a captivating extension of the renowned Bedrock brand. Inheriting the DNA of its popular steakhouse lineage, Fireplace beckons diners with a welcoming warmth and convivial ambience. The restaurant masterfully utilises fire to enhance each ingredient's innate rustic flavours, crafting a chic yet relaxed atmosphere distinct from its sister establishments.

Fireplace8
Watermelon Salad 4/5

Our dinner commenced with the Watermelon Salad ($14), a delightful ensemble of fresh watermelon cubes, red onions, cucumbers, toasted pine nuts, feta cheese, and coriander. Elevated by a coriander lime dressing, the salad resonated with vibrant hues and bright flavours.

Fireplace22
Avocado 4.2/5

The Avocado ($12), grilled over an applewood-fired grill, revealed a perfectly creamy texture. Crowned with roasted corn kernels and diced tomatoes, the dish boasted a harmonious interplay of sweetness and creaminess, accentuated by a drizzle of ponzu dressing.

Fireplace12
Coal-Roasted Sweet Potatoes 3.8/5

Coal-Roasted Sweet Potatoes ($10) underwent a transformative journey from boiling to grilling on the applewood-fired grill. Seasoned with salt and blended fennel seeds, the dish showcased the sweet nuances of purple sweet potatoes, intensified through the grilling process and paired with sour cream.

Fireplace16
Octopus Tentacles 4/5

The Octopus Tentacles ($28) underwent tender simmering before meeting the applewood-fired grill. Adorned with housemade coriander pesto sauce, celery cress, and Japanese 7-spice blend, the dish flaunted a delightful marriage of textures and flavours.

Fireplace4
Bone Marrow Toast 4/5

The Bone Marrow Toast ($28) presented a rich indulgence as beef bone marrow graced a toasted housemade brioche bread. Caper, parsley, caramelised onions, and pickled shallots adorned the ensemble, contributing to a balanced and delectable finish.

Fireplace24
Half Spanish Suckling Pig 4/5

Transitioning to mains, the Half Spanish Suckling Pig ($240) took centre stage, slow-cooked over the fire pit for three hours until the meat achieved tender succulence and the skin crisped to perfection. Ideal for sharing, this dish embodied a celebration of flavours.

Fireplace26
Dirty Duck 4.2/5

The Dirty Duck ($48) showcased an Irish duck rubbed with a medley of aromatic spices and sous vide and finished on the grill. The succulent meat, smoky char, and infused spice aroma resonated harmoniously, complemented by the thoughtful addition of grilled plum to cut through the richness.

Fireplace30
8 Hours Wood-fired Roasted Whole Lamb 3.8/5

A testament to its dedication, the 8 Hours Wood-fired Roasted Whole Lamb, 300g ($50), featured Australian Lamb slow-cooked for eight hours over the fire pit. The result was a tender and juicy delight devoid of any gamey undertones.

Fireplace36
Lemon Pound Cake 3.8/5

The Lemon Pound Cake ($13) showcased a unique twist for a sweet ending. Grilled on the applewood-fire pit after being brushed with melted butter, the cake's charred surface provided a delightful contrast. It was a symphony of textures, served with creme fraiche and mixed berries compote.

Fireplace33
Grilled Spiced Rum Pineapple 4/5

Concluding our feast, the Grilled Spiced Rum Pineapple ($14) offered a sweet and tangy finale. Soaked in rum and grilled over the fire pit, the pineapple slices were served with spiced rum syrup and a scoop of rum and raisin ice cream, creating a memorable conclusion to our dinner experience.

Fireplace by Bedrock embodies a fusion of rustic charm and finesse, inviting diners to savour the nuanced artistry of fire-kissed flavours.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Fireplace by Bedrock
One Holland Village
7 Holland Village Way
#03-27/28
Singapore 275748
Tel: +65 9337 7491
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Lorong Liput. Turn right onto Lorong Liput. Walk down Lorong Liput. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]