Sunday, May 18, 2014

Fook Seng Goldenhill Chicken Rice @ Jalan Rumah Tinggi (Bukit Merah)

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For the seek of finding good food, the trio of us (Ian, Tony and me) has to climb up a hill from the bottom of ABC Brickworks Food Centre to find Fook Seng Goldenhill Chicken Rice stall at Jalan Rumah Tinggi proclaimed by netizens as a hidden gem serving probably the best chicken rice in Singapore. Fook Seng Goldhill Chicken Rice used to own a shop space by itself before moving into its current premises inside a coffeeshop at the same block in 01 July 2012.  It was quite a steep climb. Both Ian and me have to keep looking back to ensure Tony is ok. We were worried that the climb maybe too exhausting for him and he may collapse. Fortunately we managed to reach out destination in one piece.

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After all the exercise to climb up the hill we just could not settle on a plate of chicken rice. Hence we ordered half chicken plus a plate of rice to share which cost us $16.80.

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Chicken Rice 4/5

So how does the chicken rice fair? First of all, we all agreed this is one of the best cooked chicken we have tried. The meat was still slightly pinkish which is what we like, giving it a very tender and moist texture. The chopping skill is not as good as that of Sergeant Kiang and Uncle Chicken. While we all enjoyed the texture of the chicken, we felt that the sesame oil sauce that was drizzled over it is not necessary. It masked off the natural sweetness of the chicken.

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The other two criterias of a good plate of chicken rice is the rice and chilli dip. Unfortunately this was off the mark as rice was on the dry side and the chilli dip was mildly flavoured.

Overall Fook Seng Goldenhill Chicken still comes up top as one of the best chicken rice in Singapore. The chicken doneness is the star of their chicken rice. In my next visit, I will avoid the sesame oil sauce so as to enjoy the natural flavour of the chicken. I also understand that they have opened a second outlet at Tanjong Pagar Plaza. You may want to drop by their second outlet if the flagship outlet at Jalan Rumah Tinggi, Bukit Merah is too far for you.


Fook Seng Goldenhill Chicken Rice 
Blk 37 Jalan Rumah Tinggi
#01-415
Singapore 150037
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fsgcr
Website: http://www.singaporechickenrice.com/
Nearest MRT: Tiong Bahru (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 4pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop opposite Tiong Bahru Plaza (Stop ID 10161) . Take bus number 63. Alight 8 stops later. Journey time about 25 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, May 17, 2014

My Little Spanish Place @ Bukit Timah Road

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Priding themselves as having the most complete Jamon Bar in Singapore, it was really quite a sight with the different types of cured ham being displayed at My Little Spanish Place along Bukit Timah Road. Founded by Chef Maria Sevillano and co-helmed by Chef Edward Esmero, the restaurant has a very homely feel. The whole decor and ambience make one feels like they are being transported to a home style restaurant in Spain.

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Torrada de Esparragos 4/5

With such a great selection of Jamon, it is fitting that the chefs showcase them in a specially designed HAM-Made Brunch. We started our brunch with the Torrada de Esparragos ($20), grilled asparagus with Jamon and fried farm eggs on toasted country bread. I enjoyed how the rich creamy texture complemented the egg and bread.

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Coca de Cebolla con Pimientos Y Anchoas 4/5

Chef Edward describes the Coca de Cebolla con Pimientos Y Anchoas ($24) as his hangover food. I think he is too humble. The traditional Catalan flatbread toasted with caramelized onions, roasted peppers, anchovies and Manchego cheese was very delectable with medley of flavours playing on the palate.

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Bocadillo de Cerdo Desmenuzado 4.2/5

Lastly we tried the Bocadillo de Cerdo Desmenuzado ($16). The crispy and spongy baguette is sandwiched with Spanish braised pulled pork, sliced tomatoes and cucumber. The pulled pork was not only flavourful but tender and succulent. Special mention to the garlic aioli that is freshly made daily and goes very well with the fries.

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Crema Catalana 3.8/5 and Almond Ice Cream 4.2/5

I was already feeling quite full after the lovely brunch but the chef was very kind to offer us dessert. The flavour of the orange and lemon infused Crema Catalana was nicely balanced but it lacked that crackling burnt caramelized crust. After having the Almond Ice Cream, I regretted telling the chef I was too full for dessert. I hoped he could give me a whole tub of the almond ice cream. It was so good.

The restaurant was full house during my visit on Saturday for brunch. If you are interested to check out the brunch on weekend, it is advised to make advance reservation. I understand the chef will also rotate the brunch menu quarterly. There is more reason for me to go back again.


My Little Spanish Place
619 Bukit Timah Road
Singapore 269720
Tel: +65 64632810
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/My-Little-Spanish-Place/351057551236
Website: http://www.mylittlespanishplace.com.sg/index.php
Nearest MRT: Tan Kah Kee (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 630pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun: 930am - 3pm, 630pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tan Kah Kee MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right onto Bukit Timah Road. Walk down Bukit Timah Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]