Tuesday, July 30, 2024

SUSHI ZEN (鮨然) @ Keong Saik - Japanese Omakase in Intimate 8-Seater Haute Japanese Sushiya by Beijing’s Renowned Sushi Chef-Owner E Ran

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Located along Keong Saik Road, SUSHI ZEN (鮨然) is an intimate 8-seater haute Japanese sushiya helmed by renowned Beijing sushi chef-owner E Ran. Having dedicated himself to the art of Edo-mae sushi from the age of 17, Chef E Ran has cultivated a loyal fanbase of discerning diners. SUSHI ZEN prides itself on using premium quality fresh ingredients specially sourced from Japan's Toyosu Market, which are flown in four times a week. For their shari, they use Hokkaido's Nanatsuboshi Rice, ensuring an authentic and superior sushi experience.

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For Lunch Omakase, diners can opt for either the $150 menu, which comprises 10 pieces of nigiri, soup and dessert or the $258 menu, which includes 3 additional appetisers. For Dinner Omakase, there are three tiers priced at $258, $388 and $550 - each offering a variety of seasonal appetisers, 10 pieces of nigiri before finishing with soup and dessert.

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Dinner Omakase 4/5

During our visit, we had the $388 Dinner Omakase menu, which began with a range of 5 appetisers before progressing to the main course of nigiri, followed by soup and dessert.

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Uni

The first dish was a unique steamed Uni dish. The incorporation of ingredients more typically found in Chinese cuisine was an impressive touch, as we saw a fragrant marination for the uni made with tangerine peel, Chinese shaoxing wine and more.

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Sashimi

We were presented with Aged Churoto and fresh Sweet Ebi from Hokkaido for Sashimi.

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Hotate

After some time on the grill, the meaty Hotate is sliced and seasoned with yuzu and soy, with a side dash of chilli pepper.

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Grilled Fish

Next was one of my favourite meals, the Grilled Fish. This was delicately seasoned and expertly grilled, resulting in the fish being impressively juicy with a natural sweetness. I loved the delicate touch of salt and zesty lime which brightened the dish.

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Fried Fish

The last of our appetisers was the Fried Fish thinly battered for a lovely crisp. It was luxuriously topped with caviar for an enhanced buttery and seafood flavour.

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10 Piece Nigiri

We looked forward to the 10 Piece Nigiri for our next course.

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We enjoyed the freshness and cuts of the sashimi and the different flavour profiles and aging techniques applied.

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However, we found the rice too vinegary for our liking, which outshone some of the flavours

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The pace of the omakase was a little too fast as well, but the chefs were incredibly attentive and ensured that our cups of hot tea were always filled.

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The final piece of nigiri, Uni, was absolutely creamy.

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Tamago

Dessert was served in two parts. The first was Tamago prepared in two ways: a slice of Tamago Custard and a fluffy Tamago Cake with a delightfully thin caramelised crust.

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Dessert

The omakase concluded with a classic wedge of Melon.

While the quality of ingredients was fantastic, we did not find it to rank high in terms of value for money and were expecting a bit more. Reservations should definitely be made prior to visiting the restaurant via https://www.tablecheck.com/en/sushi-zen-singapore/reserve/landing.

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.


SUSHI ZEN (鮨然)
1 Teck Lim Road
Singapore 088379
Tel: +65 6550 2265
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 2pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Teck Lim Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road to Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Monday, July 29, 2024

Oscar's @ Conrad Centennial Singapore - Best of Oscar's Dinner Buffet Featuring Local & International Flavours Under One Roof

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Oscar's at Conrad Centennial Singapore is renowned for its abundant buffet offerings, emphasising quality ingredients and a diverse selection of dishes. The Best of Oscar's Dinner Buffet is no exception, bringing together a harmonious blend of local and international flavours that cater to all palates.

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When you step into Oscar's, you're greeted with a warm and inviting ambience. The spacious, elegant dining area sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey. The attentive and courteous staff ensure that your dining experience is seamless and enjoyable from start to finish.

Ice Bar 1
Fresh Prawns on Ice 4/5

The Ice Bar offers a variety of fresh seafood on ice, such as prawns, clams, mussels, slipper lobsters and two types of oysters.

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Fresh Oysters 4/5

The buffet spread is a true feast for the senses. Highlights include Fresh Seafood On Ice, such as succulent oysters, prawns, slipper lobsters, clams and mussels, which are a delight for seafood lovers. We loved the sweetness of the fresh prawns; they were plump and crunchy, a testament to their quality. Oscar's offers two types of oysters from Ireland and Australia, and later in the evening, Japanese oysters made an appearance after the Australian ones ran out. The oysters from Ireland were very flavourful, while the Australian ones were plumper and juicier, each freshly shucked and placed on ice. The Slipper Lobsters were another standout, being sweet and meaty. Fresh salmon and tuna sashimi also added to the selection.

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Compound Salad Bar 3.8/5

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Oscar’s Signature Caesar Salad 4/5

We usually skip the buffet salad station, but the Compound Salad Bar at Oscar's was so enticing that we couldn't resist trying a few items. We were pleasantly surprised by how beautifully seasoned even the simplest dishes, like the zucchini salad, were. Another standout feature was the enormous cheese wheel used for making Caesar Salad. You can select your preferred ingredients, add them to the cheese wheel, and have them all mixed.

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Cheese & Charcuterie 3.5/5

Oscar's Cheese & Charcuterie selection is a feast for the senses. You'll find an impressive array of cheeses, including Camembert, Comte, Port Salut, and Emmental, perfectly paired with an assortment of charcuterie like Prosciutto di Parma, Salami, and Mortadella. Complementing these are fresh grapes, assorted crackers, walnuts, almonds, cashews, olives, and two types of chutney. There's also a variety of breads available, inviting you to slice your own and enjoy the freshest experience possible.

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Classic Western Mains 4/5

We were particularly impressed with the Classic Western Mains section, especially the Mac & Cheese. The dishes are kept on a hot plate, ensuring the food stays warm and sizzling. This attention to detail meant we still managed to enjoy a delightful cheese pull with the Mac & Cheese, enhancing the overall dining experience.

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Local Flavours 3.5/5

If you have a penchant for Local Flavours, Oscar's will not disappoint. The buffet features an array of rice, noodles, and oriental dishes, complemented by various vegetables, seafood, and meats. Our favourite from this section was the Steamed Halibut with Sambal, perfectly cooked with spice.

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Roasted Beef Sirloin 3.8/5

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Salmon Wellington 3.8/5

The Live Station featured Roasted Beef Sirloin and Salmon Wellington. The beef was tender and juicy, with a robust, savoury flavour. However, our favourite was the Salmon Wellington, which had a unique twist with Otak hidden within the salmon, adding a delightful burst of flavour. Later in the evening, Truffle Roasted Chicken was brought out to replace the Salmon Wellington that had run out, but we found it a bit dry.

Noodle Station
Noodle Bar

Laksa
Laksa 4/5

The buffet extends to the restaurant's outdoor area, where you'll find a Noodle Bar offering a variety of options such as Signature Laksa, Prawn Noodle Soup, Fish Noodle Soup, and Wonton Noodle Soup. Our must-have is the laksa, which is creamy and bursting with flavour.

BBQ
BBQ Zone

The BBQ Zone featured a range of local favourites, including Spicy Kecap Garlic Confit Beef Steak, Calamari, Yakitori Chicken Skewers, and Homemade Pork Sausage. The standout dishes for us were the beef steak and the pork sausage, which were flavourful, juicy and well-cooked. All ingredients are freshly grilled, simply tell them your table number and they will be served to you directly instead of having to wait at the station.

Flavours of India
Flavours of India

In the Flavours of India section, the live tandoori station is a highlight, offering smoky-flavoured chicken chunks that are succulent and perfectly paired with freshly made naan. You can choose from a variety of naan options, such as Cheese or Butter, to complement your meal. Additionally, dishes like Butter Chicken and Palak Paneer are excellent choices to enjoy with the naan.

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With so many tempting options, dessert is a must at Oscar's. Besides classics like Bread & Butter Pudding, Apple Crumble, freshly made Waffles, Chocolate Fountain, and Mövenpick Ice Cream, the small cakes and pastries are equally delightful. A standout is the Tiramisu, which boasts a melt-in-your-mouth, cloud-like texture and just the right amount of Kahlua for a perfect finish.

Trio Drinks

The buffet includes tea and Coffee, but if you are looking for an alternative drink for your dinner, Oscar's has a collection of local beverages such as Sugarcane with Lime, Bandung and Milo Dinosaur.

BEST OF OSCAR’S BUFFET DINNER
Time: 6:00pm to 10:00pm
Monday & Tuesday
Price: Adult: S$86++ | Child: S$43++ (6 – 12 years old)
Wednesday to Sunday
Price: Adult: S$96++ | Child: S$48++ (6 – 12 years old)

Dine Like A Member
As part of the ‘Dine Like A Member Program’, Hilton Honors members can enjoy up to 25 percent off and 500 bonus points when dining at Oscar's.

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


Oscar's
Conrad Centennial Hotel Singapore
2 Temasek Boulevard
Singapore 038982
Tel: +65 64327481
Facebook
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Website
Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 6am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit B. Continue walking along Temasek Avenue to destination Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]