Caffe Fernet @ Customs House - Italian Dining with Marina Bay's View

Sitting along the Singapore River with an unobstructed view of Marina Bay Sands, Caffe Fernet is one of those spots where the location is part of the experience. The open-concept space feels relaxed and breezy, making it an easy choice for after-work drinks, a casual dinner or a leisurely evening by the waterfront. The menu lends itself particularly well to sharing, with a selection of small plates, pastas and larger dishes that make it tempting to order a little bit of everything.

Hamachi Crudo 3.5/5

We started with the Hamachi Crudo ($29), served with fennel and pickled celery. The thick slices of hamachi were fresh and refreshing, and the pickled celery added acidity to the dish. It was enjoyable on its own, but compared to some of the other small plates we had that evening, it was one of the less memorable ones.

Zucchini Noodle Salad 4.8/5

Now this is one salad I would happily have an entire portion to myself! The Zucchini Noodle Salad ($22) was surprisingly flavourful, with mint, pine nuts and ricotta salata coating every strand of the zucchini noodles. Fresh and light yet packed with flavour, this was easily one of our favourites of the meal. Who knew zucchini noodles could be this addictive?

Iberico Pork Pluma 4.8/5

Another small plate we shared was the Iberico Pork Pluma ($29), served with salsa verde. The slightly sweet pork immediately reminded us of char siew in the best possible way. The slices were generous and incredibly tender, while the salsa verde helped cut through the richness. Definitely another dish we would order again.

Mafaldine Cacio e Pepe 5/5

The star of the meal for us was undoubtedly the Mafaldine Cacio e Pepe ($29). Deceptively simple, relying on just a handful of ingredients, Caffe Fernet’s version combines peppercorns, Parmesan and Pecorino with beautifully chewy, al dente mafaldine.

The chef shared that three different types of peppercorns are used, giving the pasta plenty of fragrance and depth. We loved it so much that we actually asked for more pepper for an extra kick, and the chef generously added more Parmesan for us too! It’s also a great pasta to share if you want to save room for more of the smaller plates.

Tiramisu 4/5

Of course, we couldn’t end an Italian-inspired meal without Tiramisu ($18). This classic dessert came with layers of rich mascarpone cream and ladyfingers soaked in dark rum and espresso. Creamy, boozy and coffee-forward, it was a satisfying way to round off the meal without getting overly complicated.

Singapore Sling and Yuzu & Cinnamon Lemonade

Peach Boulevardier

Caffe Fernet clearly puts plenty of thought into its drinks too. We tried three during our meal: the Singapore Sling ($23), Peach Boulevardier ($25) and a non-alcoholic Yuzu & Cinnamon Lemonade ($18). With the restaurant’s waterfront location and Marina Bay Sands right across the river, it’s easy to imagine coming here even just for drinks, especially as the evening sets in.

Come for the view but definitely stay for the food. Caffe Fernet has one of those locations that immediately sets the mood, right in the CBD, overlooking the Singapore River with Marina Bay Sands in full view. The open-concept setting can get rather windy (and yes, a little humid because this is Singapore!), but we loved the relaxed atmosphere.

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


Caffe Fernet
Customs House
70 Collyer Quay
#01-05
Singapore 049323
Tel: +65 91781105
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across Clifford Centre and walk to Collyer Quay Road. Cross the road via the OUE Link. Turn right and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Yakitori One (鳥萬) @ Suntec City Mall - Beijing’s Popular Yakitori Restaurant Opens First Overseas Outpost in Singapore

Yakitori One (鳥萬), a celebrated yakitori establishment from Beijing, opened its first international outlet in Suntec City, Singapore, bringing local diners an authentic Japanese head-to-tail grilling experience. Specialising in every part of the chicken, from the commonly loved thighs and wings to rare cuts like neck meat, heart aorta, and boneless wing tips, Yakitori One offers a unique take on traditional yakitori dining. Open till 2 AM, it's an excellent late-night spot for grilled skewers and drinks. In addition to its à la carte selections, the restaurant offers a $158 omakase menu, available only for dinner, showcasing the best of its skewers and seasonal specialities.

We had the opportunity to experience the Omakase Menu ($158 per pax), which includes two starters, ten skewers, a rice dish, and dessert. Upon being seated, diners are welcomed with a refreshing drink to kickstart the meal.

Otoro with Grated Foie Gras & Uni 4.2/5

The meal began with an Otoro with Grated Foie Gras & Uni, where the luxurious otoro melted effortlessly in the mouth. The rich foie gras and creamy uni elevated the dish, delivering an explosion of flavours.

Snow Crab with Caviar & Yuzu Jelly 4.2/5

The Snow Crab with Caviar & Yuzu Jelly followed. The jelly's zesty flavour balanced the crab's natural sweetness, while the caviar provided a subtle umami depth to round out the dish.

Chicken Tenderloin 4.2/5

Next came the grilled skewers, a highlight of the omakase experience. The Chicken Tenderloin, delicately grilled over charcoal, retained its incredible softness and silkiness. It was topped with ikura roe for a burst of savoury brininess.

Chicken Thigh 4.5/5

The Chicken Thigh had a more pronounced smokiness due to the additional grilling, enhancing its juicy texture.

Chicken Cartilage 4.2/5

Chicken Heart Aorta 4.2/5

The Chicken Cartilage provided a satisfying crunch, while the rare Chicken Heart Aorta delighted offal lovers with its unique chew and rich taste.

Chicken Neck Meat 4.5/5

One of the standouts was the Chicken Neck Meat. Its tender yet slightly firm texture added an extra layer of enjoyment.

Mentaiko Zucchini 4.5/5

To break up the sequence of chicken skewers, the Mentaiko Zucchini was served. The light, crunchy zucchini was topped with torched mentaiko, imparting a rich creaminess that perfectly complemented the vegetable’s freshness.

Chicken Wings 4.2/5

Chicken Tsukune 4.8/5

Returning to the chicken selections, the Chicken Wings reminded us why bone-in skewers are always more aromatic and flavourful, while the Chicken Tsukune was undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser. The juicy chicken meatball skewer, mixed with soft bone for added texture, was paired with an egg yolk dipping sauce, giving it a silky and indulgent finish.

Pineapple 3/5

AA simple grilled Pineapple was served, though it could have been charred more evenly for a more pronounced caramelisation.

Chiba Sweet Potato 4/5

The meal included a Chiba Sweet Potato, an unexpected but pleasant surprise for a change in pace. The naturally sweet and creamy potato provided a hearty contrast to the preceding skewers.

Nodoguro and Sakura Ebi Don 4.5/5

The final savoury course was the Nodoguro and Sakura Ebi Don. This fragrant and umami-rich rice dish was deeply satisfying, thanks to its delicate balance of seafood flavours and perfectly cooked rice.

Yuzi Ice Cream 3/5

Finally, a scoop of Yuzu Ice Cream provided a refreshing citrusy sweetness, leaving a light and clean finish to an indulgent yakitori feast.

Yakitori One brings a rare and authentic yakitori omakase experience to Singapore. With meticulously prepared skewers and premium ingredients, it is a must-visit for yakitori lovers and adventurous diners alike. Whether you're looking for an indulgent omakase experience or just craving some late-night skewers, Yakitori One is definitely a spot worth checking out.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yakitori One (鳥萬)
Suntec City Mall
Tower 2
3 Temasek Boulevard
#01-514/515
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 92353031
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 430pm - 2am
Sun: 430pm - 11pm

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]

Summer Hill @ Claymore Connect - Provençal Pique-Nique Brunch Trolley Inspired by The French Tradition of Elegant Picnics

Summer Hill first made a name for itself in the quaint neighbourhood of Sunset Way, Clementi. Since then, the restaurant has relocated to a more central spot at Claymore Connect on Orchard Road, where it continues to charm diners with its rustic French fare. I recently visited Summer Hill on a Saturday to experience their new Provençal Pique-Nique Brunch Trolley, which showcases an array of southern French summer delicacies.

The concept behind the Provençal Pique-Nique Brunch Trolley is simple and delightful. The staff serve one round of everything on the menu, and if you find something you particularly love, you can request more. It's a leisurely, indulgent experience that makes you feel like you're dining in the French countryside.

The Provençal Pique-Nique Brunch Trolley
Available from 15 June 2024 onwards
Every Saturday & Sunday; 11am & 1.30pm (2-seatings)
$69++ per person (half price for kids under 12 @ $34.50++)
$55++ for free flow prosecco & wines

Artichoke, Roasted Red Pepper and Whipped Goats Cheese, Herbs & Olives Dips 4.2/5

Provencale Pate de Campagne 4.2/5

We began our brunch with warm Baguette served alongside a trio of dips: Artichoke, Roasted Red Pepper, and Whipped Goat's Cheese, Herbs & Olives. The baguette was perfectly crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, making it the ideal vehicle for the rich, flavorful dips. I also enjoyed pairing the warm baguette with the Provençale Pate de Campagne, which had a lovely depth of flavour.

Sauce Gribiche with Grilled Zucchini 4/5

Grilled Swordfish Nicoise Salad 4/5

Next, we moved on to some lighter appetisers, including Sauce Gribiche with Grilled Zucchini and Grilled Swordfish Niçoise Salad. The zucchini was perfectly grilled, with a slight char complementing the tangy sauce gribiche. The swordfish Niçoise salad was fresh and well-balanced, with tender grilled fish paired with the classic Niçoise components like olives, eggs, and tomatoes.

Mac & Cheese 3.8/5

Lamb Shoulder Parmentier 4.2/5

After the appetisers, the first trolley arrived with Mac & Cheese and Lamb Shoulder Parmentier. The dishes were served tableside, adding a touch of elegance to the experience. The mac & cheese was creamy and comforting, while the lamb shoulder parmentier was hearty and rich, with tender lamb layered over buttery mashed potatoes.

Provencale Fried Chicken 4.8/5

The standout dish for me was the Provençale Fried Chicken. Summer Hill's signature French Fried Chicken gets a Provençale twist with a fragrant herbs de Provence-infused butter drench. The result is a crispy, aromatic exterior that gives way to juicy, flavourful chicken. It was so good that I couldn't resist asking for a second helping.

Beef Steak 4/5

The brunch menu also featured a beautifully grilled Beef Steak. The beef had a gorgeous exterior char with a perfectly pink centre, offering a robust and satisfying flavour. It was an excellent complement to the other dishes on the menu.

Clams Marinere 4.8/5

The seafood trolley brought a pot brimming with Clams Marinière. The clams were fresh, plump, and juicy, cooked in a white wine broth that was both light and flavourful.

Snow Cone Bar 4/5

Midway through the meal, the Snow Cone Bar opened, allowing diners to create their own shaved ice desserts. It was a fun, interactive element that added a touch of nostalgia to the brunch. Diners could drizzle different syrups and pair them with a selection of toppings, making for a refreshing palate cleanser.

Provencale Roasted Pork Belly 4.5/5

Summer Bean Stew with Green Chilli Persillade 4.8/5

The highlight of the brunch for me was the Provençale Roasted Pork Belly. The pork belly had an incredibly crispy crackling skin and succulent flesh, which paired beautifully with a bowl of Summer Bean Stew with Green Chili Persillade. The stew was hearty and flavourful, with a hint of spice from the green chilli that complemented the richness of the pork.

Cherry Tart 3.5/5

Chocolate Stout Cake 4/5

The dessert trolley featured both a Cherry Tart and a Chocolate Stout Cake. While these desserts were sure to satisfy those with a sweet tooth, I found them a bit too sweet for my liking.

Lavender Milk Cake 4.2/5

Instead, I adored the Lavender Milk Cake. It was well-balanced and not overly sweet, with a lovely lavender fragrance that made for a perfect ending to the meal.

Summer Hill’s Provençal Pique-Nique Brunch Trolley is a delightful experience that transports you to the south of France. The variety of dishes ensures there’s something for everyone, and the free-flow option for prosecco and wines makes it even more enjoyable. Whether you're a fan of French cuisine or simply looking for a unique brunch experience in Singapore, this is definitely worth checking out.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Summer Hill
Claymore Connect
442 Orchard Road
#02-17
Singapore 238879
Tel:+65 8690 5907
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Sun: 1130am, 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk to Orchard Road towards the junction of Orchard Road and Claymore Road. Cross the road and turn right. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]