CÉ LA VI Singapore @ Marina Bay Sands - Unveiled New Menu With Modern Asian Flavours

CÉ LA VI Singapore at Marina Bay Sands unveiled a new menu that Executive Chef Joshua Bedell and his team crafted. With over two decades of culinary experience in Asian cuisine across New York, Hong Kong, and Melbourne, the new menu carries both Chef Bedell's creative touch and his team's interpretations of modern Asian cuisine.

Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Carpaccio 4.5/5

Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Carpaccio ($52) made a luxurious starter for appetisers. The thinly sliced wagyu beef had a mouthfeeling texture further boasted by creamy smoked aioli. Pickled cucumber cubes and ponzu sauce cut the richness, while caviar and shimeiji mushrooms enhanced the umami depth of the dish.

Grilled Octopus 4.5/5

The Grilled Octopus ($38), inspired by Chef Bedell's Melbourne experience, stood out with a perfectly done octopus, which enticed with a smoky flavour complemented by a vibrant yellow pepper soy sauce with a gentle kick of heat, mellowed by crisp green apple shavings.

Halibut 4.5/5

For mains, the Halibut ($38) interests with its Eastern spice crust, paired with tamarind jus and a mushroom ragout. The rich mushroom ragout was a star on its own. Its earthiness harmonised with the tanginess of the jus, creating a delicious pairing to the halibut.

A4 Miyazaki Striploin 4.5/5

The A4 Miyazaki Striploin ($130) was one of the better ones I had in a while. The beef was done on point, accompanied by grilled king oyster mushrooms, char-grilled leek, and a golden potato terrine. Tying the elements together was a rich kombu demi-glace, which brought out the flavour profile of the beef.

Roasted Cauliflower 2.8/5

The Roasted Cauliflower ($28), a signature from CÉ LA VI Dubai, was presented on a bed of creamy cauliflower purée. Almond and golden raisin crumbles provided texture and a burst of fruity sweetness, though the cauliflower could benefit from being slightly more tender.

Dulce Miso Toffee 3.5/5

For desserts, the shape of the Dulce Miso Toffee reimagines the nostalgic ice gem biscuit, encasing a sticky toffee pudding within a chocolate mousse. While flavorful, it lacked the iconic sticky pudding texture I desired.

Tropical Mango 4/5

The Tropical Mango ($18) is a delightful tribute to Thai mango sticky rice. Fresh Thai mango cubes mixed with Japanese rice cooked in coconut cream adorned with a crispy rice tuile. The tangy mango cubes balanced the sweet and creamy rice pudding. It was a much lighter option compared to the traditional version, yet equally satisfying.

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.


CÉ LA VI Singapore
Marina Bay Sands
Hotel Tower 3
1 Bayfront Avenue
Singapore 018971
Tel: +65 6508 2188
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Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue: 12pm - 1am
Wed: 12pm - 4am
Thur, Sun: 12pm - 3pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 4am

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit C or B. Walk to Marina Bay Sands Hotel. Walk to North Tower and take lift to SkyPark. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Katsuya (The Tonkatsu Specialist) @ Tanjong Katong - Probably The Best Tonkatsu Restaurant in Singapore

Thanks to a recommendation from a foodie friend, I discovered Katsuya, a tonkatsu specialist restaurant tucked away in Tanjong Katong. Helmed by Singaporean Chef-owner Kervin, who trained at a Japanese culinary school in Tokyo, Katsuya has been quietly winning hearts since 2011. Initially located in East Coast, the restaurant moved to its current location at Tanjong Katong, continuing its tradition of crafting excellent tonkatsu dishes with a meticulous Japanese approach.

Tako Wasabi 3.5/5

We started with the Tako Wasabi ($7), a simple yet delightful appetiser. The chewy texture of the marinated octopus is complemented by the spicy punch of wasabi, awakening the palate and preparing us for the meal ahead.

Ebi Taru Taru 4.8/5

The Ebi Taru Taru ($12) is a standout appetiser. Juicy prawns are coated in a perfectly crispy batter, retaining their sweet, bouncy texture inside. The accompanying tartar sauce, elevated with leek, adds a tangy, creamy touch that enhances the prawn's natural sweetness — a near-perfect dish for seafood lovers.

Hire Tonkatsu Set 5/5

The star of Katsuya's menu is undoubtedly its Hire Tonkatsu Set ($35), which includes cabbage salad, rice, red miso soup, and pickles. What sets this tonkatsu apart is Chef Kervin's use of low-temperature cooking techniques. The pork is cooked to a pinkish centre, safe to eat yet incredibly tender and juicy.

Each bite of the golden-brown cutlet reveals a perfectly moist and succulent interior encased in a crispy crust. For an elevated experience, Chef Kervin recommends enjoying the tonkatsu with just a sprinkle of salt or mustard, allowing the natural flavours of the pork to shine. This dish truly redefines what tonkatsu should be — simple yet meticulously crafted perfection.

Hokkaido Rosu Set 4.5/5

The Hokkaido Rosu Set ($42) is an excellent choice for those who prefer a fattier cut. The balance of lean meat and a layer of fat provides a juicy, succulent bite every time. The fat melts into the meat as you chew, creating a rich and satisfying flavour profile.

Hokkaido Wagyu 4/5

If you're looking for indulgence, the Hokkaido Wagyu ($70) is a premium offering that doesn't disappoint. Known for its exceptional marbling and buttery texture, the wagyu is cooked to a perfect medium rare using the same low-temperature technique. The contrast between the crispy golden crust and the tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior is luxurious.

Scallop Katsu 4.8/5

Katsuya doesn’t stop at pork and beef; its seafood katsu options are equally impressive. The Scallop Katsu ($36) is a must-try (pre-order recommended). The plump, sweet scallops are encased in a crispy exterior, creating a delightful interplay of textures. Each bite ensures a satisfying crunch while maintaining the scallop’s delicate juiciness.

Katsuya is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on every tonkatsu lover's radar. The low-temperature cooking method sets it apart from other tonkatsu establishments, ensuring that each dish is tender, moist, and cooked to perfection. From the exceptional pork and wagyu sets to the delightful seafood options, Katsuya proves that tonkatsu can be elevated to an art form.

For a restaurant that has flown under the radar since 2011, Katsuya is a quiet powerhouse in Singapore's dining scene, offering a true taste of Japanese craftsmanship. If you haven't visited yet, it's time to make your way to Tanjong Katong for this unforgettable tonkatsu experience.


Katsuya
258 Tanjong Katong Road
Singapore 437046
Tel: +65 9656 8183
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Katong (TE Line), Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Katong MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk straight down Tanjong Katong Road to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Blk 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10, 31 and 32. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]