Restaurant Cougar Lee (錦軒) @ Tras Street - Modern Chinese Cuisine with a Global Flair

Restaurant Cougar Lee (錦軒) on Tras Street is the newest addition to the scene, offering a fresh take on traditional Chinese cuisine. At the helm is Beijing-born Chef Ethan Lee, who brings a wealth of culinary experience from across Europe, including Lyon, Italy, and Barcelona, as well as his grounding in his family's Beijing restaurant. His cross-cultural background has shaped a bold and inventive menu that surprises while staying rooted in comfort and familiarity.

Lee's Steamed Roasted Iberico Pork "Siu Mai" 4.2/5

Lee's Steamed Roasted Iberico Pork "Siu Mai" ($3.90/pc, min. 5 pcs) is freshly made daily. These parcels reveal hand-chopped Iberico pork bursting with juicy richness, finished with garden greens and a hint of wasabi for a gentle kick. The presentation stood out — a playful twist on the classic siu mai with a crispy skirt reminiscent of Japanese gyoza.

Fish Maw, Silkie Fowl, Double Boiled Soup 3.8/5

The Premium Double Boiled Soup of the Day is Fish Maw, Silkie Fowl, Double Boiled Soup ($15/pax). It offered nourishment and comfort, though it lacked the depth and intensity one might expect from a traditional Cantonese-style soup.

Yellow Tail Amberjack 3.8/5

The Yellowtail Amberjack ($18) was well-portioned, featuring thickly sliced amberjack accompanied by a combination of tomato and mango. While refreshing, the citrus dressing leaned a little too sharp, overshadowing the natural sweetness of the fish and fruit.

Foie Gras Terrine wrapped in Filo Foil 4/5

The Foie Gras Terrine wrapped in Filo Foil ($6.90/pc, min. 2 pcs) was a creative highlight. Marinated with Chinese spices like five spice, star anise, and dried apple, the foie gras was slow-cooked in German sweet wine, encased in crisp filo pastry, and finished with a fruity vinegar sauce. The result is a beautifully balanced mouthful of richness and acidity.

The Classic Ngoh Hiang 4/5

The Classic Ngoh Hiang ($16) is a refined take on the local favourite. Handcrafted daily, the meat rolls are juicy with a satisfying crunch, complemented by a tangy and mildly spicy Nam Jim sauce that enhances the savoury flavours.

Braised Monkfish 4.5/5

The Braised Monkfish ($48) was one of the evening's standouts. Firm yet delicate, the monkfish paired beautifully with jumbo asparagus and heirloom tomatoes. The savoury, mildly spicy sauce was the soul of the dish, tying everything together in harmony.

Grilled King Prawn with Handmade Noodle 3.8/5

The Grilled King Prawn with Handmade Noodle ($32) featured springy noodles cooked in a prawn and tobiko bisque, topped with a grilled king prawn. While the presentation was appealing, the bisque could have been more robust and flavourful to bring the dish to life.

Homemade Burnt Cheesecake 4.5/5

Dessert was a delightful surprise. The Homemade Burnt Cheesecake with Chives ($12) is served with salted egg yolk ice cream. The cheesecake was creamy and luscious, with the chives adding an aromatic twist. The salted egg yolk ice cream paired perfectly, elevating the dessert with a sweet-savoury balance that kept us going back for more.

Guests can look forward to a wide range of offerings, from à la carte "tapas-style" small plates and mains to handcrafted desserts. For those seeking value, the set lunch and dinner menus are a great introduction to Chef Lee's creativity – starting from $25 for lunch and $35 for dinner, an exceptional value for its calibre.

Special Promotion – Enjoy over 50% OFF Set Menus:
Lunch: 4-course set at $25 (U.P. $55) | 5-course set at $35 (U.P. $88)
Dinner: 5-course set at $35 (U.P. $88) | 6-course set at $50 (U.P. $158)

Restaurant Cougar Lee (錦軒) combines Chinese tradition with European finesse, bringing a touch of flair and imagination. Chef Ethan Lee's creations showcase an adventurous yet thoughtful approach, offering a refreshing perspective to contemporary Chinese dining in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Restaurant Cougar Lee (錦軒)
61 Tras Street
Singapore 079000
Tel: +65 81624965
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

SUSHISAMBA Singapore @ Capital Tower - Introduces Long Friday Lunch From $48++ For Guest to Slow Down, Unwind, and Ease into the Weekend

SUSHISAMBA Singapore at Capital Tower has launched Long Lunch Fridays, a dining concept that encourages guests to slow down, unwind, and ease into the weekend. Unlike the Vivo Business Lunch, which is designed for a quick and efficient corporate escape, Long Lunch Fridays presents a more indulgent line-up of dishes with the option of a 2-hour free-flow to elevate the experience.

Tuna Tiradito 3.8/5

I began with the Tuna Tiradito (+$5), a raw fish preparation similar to ceviche but without marination in acid. Instead, sashimi-style slices are dressed with a bright, acidic sauce just before serving to preserve their delicate tenderness. The tuna was skillfully sliced to even thickness and finished with citrusy orange ponzu, kizami wasabi, and a sprinkle of shio kombu. Lean yet tender, it was enhanced by creamy avocado, which enriched the mouthfeel. While the overall flavour was vibrant and umami-laden, I found the metallic note of the fish a touch more pronounced than I would have preferred.

Samba Taquitos Platter 4.5/5

To up the ante of your experience, do add on the Samba Taquitos Platter for a supplementary $22, featuring Lobster, Waygu Carne Moida and Yellowtail Taquitos. The shells were ultra-light yet sturdy, holding the generous fillings without breaking apart. The Lobster version had meaty chunks that were creamy with Japanese tartar, although I wished the yuzu gel were sharper and less sweet. The Wagyu Carne Moida was satisfyingly rich, balanced by a dollop of sour cream, while the Yellowtail combined with avocado delivered a smooth, creamy bite.

Chilean Sea Bass 5/5

For my main, I chose the Chilean Sea Bass (+$15). Its caramelised exterior glistened invitingly, carrying the savoury depth of a white miso glaze. The flesh was buttery and delicately flaky, thoughtfully paired with a Baby Gem salad topped with black quinoa and yuzu dressing, which added a refreshing and nutty component to the dish.

Pandan Cake 3/5

To conclude, I tried the Pandan Cake (+$5), which is layered with coconut cream and served alongside Chendol ice cream. The cake itself was light and fragrant, but the ice cream fell short of being a true Chendol ice cream.

For Long Lunch Fridays, the 3-course set lunch is priced from $48++ onwards, with an optional 2-hour free-flow option available for $68++. The beverage selection includes cocktails, sake, and sparkling pours, such as the Guava & Shiso Caipirinha, Samba Paloma, Espresso Martini, and Nino Franco Valdobbiadene NV.

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.


Sushisamba Singapore
Capital Tower
168 Robinson Road
#52-01
Singapore 068912
Tel: +65 6550 2290
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1am
Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

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

CUDO @ Stanley Street - Modern Comfort Food with Latin Soul

Located along Stanley Street, CUDO is the latest bold concept by the team behind Siri House and Moxie. Rooted in the spirit of modern Latin American cuisine, CUDO draws on bold, comforting flavours reimagined through a contemporary lens. With Chef Steve at the helm, the menu offers a vibrant medley of dishes inspired by his culinary travels and nostalgic eats, all given a fresh, creative twist.

Torched Truffadito 4.5/5

We began our dinner on a high note with the Torched Truffadito ($25). This refreshing small plate features thick slices of Japanese yellowtail, macerated in soy sauce and gently torched for a touch of smokiness. Finished with chipotle aioli, pickled cucumber, and radish, the dish is a beautiful balance of freshness, savoury, and zesty crunch.

Warm Crab Queso 4.2/5

The Warm Crab Queso ($18) is CUDO's take on a classic cheese dip, elevated with luxurious touches. The dip combines cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, smoked mozzarella, and chilli cheddar, infused with Worcestershire, Tabasco, and white onion confit. Sakura ebi oil and crispy ebi add an umami punch, while zucchini and lump crab bring freshness and texture. It is perfect when scooped up with the accompanying fried tortillas.

Calabaza 4.2/5

A vegetarian delight, the Calabaza ($12) spotlights roasted Japanese pumpkin with a smoky chipotle aioli spiked with yuzu kosho. The sweetness of the pumpkin is complemented by pomegranate molasses, salty cotija cheese, and pistachio dust, which is a creative and flavour-packed small plate.

Disco Fries 4.5/5

Inspired by Chef Steve's time in Staten Island, the Disco Fries ($16) are indulgent, satisfying, and utterly addictive. Crisp fries are blanketed in mozzarella and cotija cheese, drenched in a beef jus-based brown gravy, and tossed with chorizo, pickled onions, and salsa Rosada. It's a glorious mash-up of American diner nostalgia with Latin vibrancy.

Chipotle Butter Prawns 4.2/5

The Chipotle Butter Prawns ($18) bring the heat and depth of flavour. Tiger prawns are rubbed with chipotle, roasted, and glazed with agave molasses before being finished with a torch. Served with house pesto and lime, each bite is smoky, sweet, and savoury with a zesty lift.

Grilled Seabass Fillet 3.8/5

The Grilled Seabass Fillet ($33) was beautifully plated with parsley-lime sauce and pineapple salsa, but the over-charred skin was slightly too bitter, distracting from the fish's freshness. While the flavour elements were sound, the execution slightly fell short of the mark.

Spaghetti Con Camarones 4.5/5

One of the showstoppers of the evening, the Spaghetti Con Camarones ($38), features squid ink pasta tossed in a luxurious Ancho bisque and topped with grilled tiger prawns. The sauce, made from sundried tomatoes, capers, white wine, ancho chilli paste, and seafood stock, packs rich, crustacean flavours balanced with tang and spice. Finished with chipotle oil, it's a must-order.

Coconut Tres Leches 4.2/5

Light yet indulgent, the Coconut Tres Leches ($14) delivers a tropical spin on the classic dessert. The housemade sponge is soaked in coconut milk, vanilla, and condensed milk, then sprayed with white rum and topped with coconut cream, toasted coconut flakes, and berry compote, making for a refreshingly sweet end to the meal.

Chocolate Tart 4.2/5

For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Tart ($16) hits the spot. A silky chocolate mousse ganache is encased in a tart shell and garnished with cocoa pearls, housemade chilli jam, and candied nuts, creating layers of richness with a slight kick.

Toffee Plantain 4.2/5

The Toffee Plantain ($15) is a decadent finale, combining a moist plantain-banana sponge with banana mousse, vanilla ice cream, and caramelised plantain. The orange zest adds a lovely citrusy lift, rounding off a dessert that’s both comforting and refined.

CUDO impresses with its thoughtful reinterpretation of Latin American dishes, presented with flair and rooted in comfort. From inventive appetisers to bold mains and delightful desserts, it’s a welcome addition to Singapore’s modern dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


CUDO
13 Stanley Street
Singapore 068732
Tel: +65 8221 6330
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 1130pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street, walk to Boon Tat Street. Turn left onto Boon Tat Street. Turn right onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Mccallum Street. Turn left onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Pulsii French Bistro @ Tras Street - Where French Finesse Meets Japanese Precision

Formerly known as Pulsii Woodfire Restaurant, the establishment has now rebranded itself as Pulsii French Bistro, ushering in a new era of refined French cuisine imbued with the subtle artistry of Japanese technique. Helmed by Chef Daisuke Yoshikawa, whose culinary pedigree includes experience in Michelin-starred Japanese kitchens, the restaurant now offers an elegant lineup of small plates and mains that showcase his signature precision and flair.

Chef Canape's - 3 Kinds 4.2/5

Dinner commenced on a high note with the Chef Canape's – 3 Kinds ($20). This delightful trio of bite-sized creations includes a red prawn tartlet topped with ikura, a foie gras croquette, and a cheese-filled canelé. Each offered a unique interplay of texture and flavour, creating an enticing preview of what's to come.

Brandade Croquettes, Chicken Liver Mousse, Uni Seaweed Brioche 4.2/5

We continued with an elegant trio of small bites, each delivering a distinct expression of flavour and craftsmanship. The Brandade Croquette ($4) was delicately crisp on the outside, breaking apart to reveal a warm, creamy interior of salted cod and potato, a comforting blend elevated by subtle seasoning. The Chicken Liver Mousse ($8) was decadently smooth and rich, its earthy intensity tempered by a hint of sweetness, spread luxuriously atop a crisp toast. Completing the trio was the Uni Seaweed Brioche ($15), a decadent bite where briny, buttery sea urchin melted into the warm, pillowy brioche, subtly perfumed by seaweed. Together, these bites formed a symphony of textures and flavours, refined and deeply satisfying.

Yuzu Cervelle De Canut 4.2/5

The Yuzu Cervelle De Canut ($29) was a fun, multi-sensory dish that surprised and delighted. Silky tuna sashimi paired with a bright yuzu cheese dip and topped with caviar created layers of freshness, acidity, and umami. The crispy potato gaufrettes served on the side allowed you to assemble your perfect bite, which is both playful and sophisticated.

Grilled Yellowtail 4.8/5

One of the standout dishes of the night was the Grilled Yellowtail ($26). Thick slices of yellowtail were perfectly grilled for a light smoky char, then finished with burnt mandarin orange and watermelon radish for acidity and crunch. Resting on a vibrant shungiku puree, the dish was a masterclass in balance that is rich yet refreshing.

Grilled Lamb Tenderloin 3.8/5

The Grilled Lamb Tenderloin ($25), served medium rare, came paired with spring onion puree, anchovy, and Kanzuri chilli oil. While the lamb was tender, the flavour lacked the natural gaminess that lamb lovers might expect. The chilli oil pairing, while creative, felt discordant and didn't quite lift the dish.

Magret Duck Breast 4.2/5

The Magret Duck Breast ($55) fared better, with its juicy, tender slices and rich duck fat under crisped skin delivering on flavour. Paired with a miso balsamic sauce and maitake mushrooms, this dish struck a more satisfying balance of depth and umami.

Rack of Iberico Pork 200g 4/5

Closing off the savoury courses was the Rack of Iberico Pork ($40), a generous cut served atop creamy mashed potato and crispy fried corn. The pork was succulent and well-cooked, though the dish could have benefited from a more assertive, tangy sauce to fully elevate the meat's natural sweetness.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pulsii French Bistro
55 Tras Street
Singapore 078994
Tel: +65 9689 8407
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Hortus @ Gardens by The Bay Flower Dome - New Mediterranean Sharing Menu Comprising of 9 Dishes

Nestled within the lush beauty of Gardens by the Bay's Flower Dome, Hortus offers diners a taste of the Mediterranean, surrounded by vibrant blooms and cool serenity. With its focus on fresh, vibrant sharing plates and rustic wood-grilled mains, Hortus presents an experience that goes beyond the food—especially with its newly launched Mediterranean Sharing Set Menu ($68++ per pax), which even includes complimentary Flower Dome admission and a buggy ride to and from the Main Entrance. A perfect little getaway without leaving Singapore!

Hummus, Olive Oil and Paprika 4.8/5

Muhammara, Roasted Bell Pepper and Walnut Dip 4.5/5

The meal kicks off with an array of five sharing starters. The Hummus with Olive Oil and Paprika was an instant hit — creamy, nutty, and elevated by the earthiness of paprika and a generous drizzle of olive oil. It is paired beautifully with the warm, fluffy housemade pita. Equally delightful was the Muhammara, a roasted bell pepper and walnut dip that was slightly smoky, nutty, and tangy — a deliciously vibrant alternative to the classic hummus.

Fried School Prawns, Calamari, Whitebait with Lemon Aioli 4.5/5

Next up was the Fried Seafood Basket, featuring school prawns, calamari, and whitebait, all perfectly crispy and light, paired with a zesty lemon aioli. It was dangerously addictive, with each piece a burst of flavour and crunch.

Yellowtail Kingfish Crudo 4.8/5

The Yellowtail Kingfish Crudo was a standout among the starters. Dressed with bergamot and green olives and scattered with pomegranate seeds, it was refreshingly bright, delicately sweet, and brimming with Mediterranean sunshine.

Kingfish Collar with Cabbage and Fennel Salad and Nduja 4.2/5

Moving on to the mains, we tried the Kingfish Collar with Cabbage and Fennel Salad and Nduja. Grilled to crispy perfection on the outside while keeping the flesh moist and tender, the kingfish was livened up beautifully by a squeeze of lemon and the spicy kick from the nduja. The accompanying salad of cabbage and fennel provided a refreshing counterpoint.

Beef and Lamb Adana Kebab with Sumac Onions 4.2/5

We also sampled the Beef and Lamb Adana Kebab with Sumac Onions. Typically, kebabs can veer on the dry side, but Hortus' version was juicy, aromatic, and full of flavour. The sweet and tangy sumac onions on top brought a much-appreciated brightness to the hearty meat skewer.

Cracked Wheat Salad with Dill, Mint, and Pomegranate 4.2/5

Rice Pilaf with Pistachio and Lemon 4.5/5

To complement the mains, we had the Cracked Wheat Salad and the Rice Pilaf with Pistachio and Lemon. Both were excellent — the cracked wheat salad was herby and fresh with pops of pomegranate, while the rice pilaf was light, fragrant, and enhanced by the nuttiness of pistachios and citrusy lemon.

House churned Vanilla Gelato, Halva, Tahini 4.5/5

Desserts were a true surprise and delight. The House Churned Vanilla Gelato, paired with halva, tahini, pomegranate syrup, and mint, was a symphony of textures and flavours — sweet, nutty, creamy, and refreshing all at once.

Rose and Cardamom Basbousa 4.5/5

The final treat, Rose and Cardamom Basbousa, sealed the meal on a high note. The moist semolina cake, topped with house churned pistachio gelato and cardamom cream, offered a beautiful blend of floral and nutty flavours that was both comforting and exotic.

Hortus isn't just a restaurant — it's an experience. The combination of fresh Mediterranean flavours, an idyllic garden setting, and thoughtful touches like complimentary entry and transport make it a memorable destination dining spot. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a leisurely meal with a view, Hortus delivers in every way.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hortus
Flower Dome
Gardens by the Bay
18 Marina Garden Drive
#01-09
Singapore 018953
Tel: +65 6702 0158
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Nearest MRT: Bayfront MRT

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 330pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit B. Take the pathway to Bayfront Plaza Ticketing. Take for the shuttle bus to flower dome or walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]