Chef X @ Clarke Quay Central - Marks Its First Anniversary with New Residency by MasterChef Duo and MissTamChiak Collaboration

To mark its first anniversary, Chef X at Clarke Quay welcomes a fresh new residency by MasterChef Singapore alumni Chef Nicholas Koh and Chef Leon Lim, the dynamic duo behind Kaya Rebel. Running from 3 June to 26 July 2025, the residency showcases their creative reimagination of kaya, Singapore’s beloved coconut jam. In addition, to celebrate the milestone, Kaya Rebel has teamed up with renowned food personality Maureen Ow (@MissTamChiak) to launch an exclusive Mango Kaya flavour and dish, available from 9 June to 5 July 2025.

Kaya Selections 4/5

Kaya Rebel presents three unique kaya flavours: Pandan, Earl Grey, and Okinawa Brown Sugar. Each offers a distinct profile to suit different palates, with the Earl Grey surprising with its floral notes and the Okinawa Brown Sugar adding deep caramel richness. What stands out is the kaya's custard-like texture, a departure from the more gelatinous local versions. Best enjoyed with toast, croissants, or biscuits, the kaya delivers comfort with a contemporary flair.

All-Day Kaya Breakfast Plate 2.5/5

Priced at $18 (Classic) or $24 (Deluxe), the Breakfast Plate includes a choice of kaya flavour, bread, eggs (any style), mesclun salad, protein, and a side. While it's a complete plate, the concept is too simple for its price tag, and some diners may feel that the components can be easily replicated at home. A more creative twist might elevate its value.

Iced Cloud Coffee 4/5

Perfect for pairing with breakfast items, the Iced Cloud Coffee ($7) is smooth and refreshing, topped with a creamy milk foam that adds body and visual appeal. It's a solid, satisfying beverage that complements the sweet and savoury flavours on the menu.

Mango Kaya Sticky Rice 4/5

A celebratory collaboration with MissTamChiak, this playful dessert reinvents the traditional Thai mango sticky rice. Here, the pairing of Mango Kaya with Sticky Rice results in a surprisingly bold and modern reinterpretation that delivers nostalgia with a twist. Available for a limited time at $8 nett, this is one not to miss.

Kaya Tart 3.8/5

The Kaya Tart ($8 nett) features kaya custard nestled in a buttery shortcrust base adorned with assorted toppings. While it's beautifully presented and texturally satisfying, some might find the kaya flavour slightly subdued compared to the standalone spreads.

Kaya Creme Brulee 3.5/5

Kaya Creme Brulee, the pandan-infused custard dessert topped with a crackling sugar crust, offers a nod to French technique while staying rooted in local flavour. At $8 nett, it's fun and Instagrammable, although it may not leave a lasting impression in terms of taste.

For those who fall in love with the kaya, Kaya Rebel’s bottled flavours are available for purchase during the residency. Housed in sleek, minimalist jars reminiscent of high-end skincare packaging, they make for a chic and tasty souvenir.

Kaya Rebel at Chef X delivers a commendable effort in reimagining kaya beyond tradition. While some dishes are more conceptual than essential, the innovation and passion behind the residency shine through. Whether you're a kaya purist or curious to explore its modern interpretations, this residency is worth a visit—especially for the limited-edition Mango Kaya creations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chef X
Clarke Quay Central
6 Eu Tong Sen Street
#03-103/104
Singapore 059817
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 830am - 430pm
Fri-Sat: 830am - 930pm
(Closed on Sun & Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E or F. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Oscar's @ Conrad Centennial Singapore - The Sea, Smoke & Spice New Themed Buffet Experience

Known for its generous spreads and lively live stations, Oscar's at Conrad Singapore Marina Bay presents two new themed dinner experiences: The Sea, Smoke & Spice and Flavours of Yesteryear. Celebrating both the bold and the familiar, each theme invites diners to savour distinct culinary stories, from flame-kissed signatures to comforting heirloom recipes.

We tried The Sea, Smoke & Spice theme buffet, and here's our review.

The evening begins with a refreshing taste of the sea. The Seafood Bar featuring freshly shucked Oysters, Slipper Lobsters, Mussels and Flower Crabs is not to be missed. We especially enjoyed the oysters that were sweet, plump, and incredibly fresh.

A surprise highlight was the freshly sliced Jamón. We recommend pairing it with the sweet melon from the fruit section for a classic, satisfying combination.

Another standout for us was the Mushroom Risotto. Served with whipped Chantilly and sautéed mushrooms, it's finished in a dramatic Parmesan wheel. The al dente rice was creamy and well-seasoned, with rich, earthy mushroom notes that packed a punch.

Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder

Chermoula Fish Pot

For those who love deep, bold flavours, the Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder, infused with aromatic spices, was tender and juicy, with a savoury richness. The Chermoula Fish Pot featured flaky fish marinated in North African herbs and spices. Both dishes were flavourful, though potentially a little heavy for those with lighter palates.

Oven Roasted Marinated Angus Beef Striploin

Pulled Beef Sliders and Marinated Spanish Octopus

The Oven-Roasted Marinated Angus Beef Striploin was a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with the variety of sauces offered. We found the Pulled Beef Sliders to be a little dry, although the flavour came through well. The Marinated Spanish Octopus, served on a soft jacket potato with sour cream and olive oil, leaned salty. While the potato was beautifully cooked, crispy on the outside and soft within, we found it slightly overpowered the octopus.

The heart of the Sea, Smoke & Spice experience lies at the Live Charcoal BBQ. Smoky and sizzling from the grill:

• Sticky Australian Lamb Ribs
• Spice-rubbed Hanger Steak
• Kurobuta Pork Tomahawk
• Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Locally farmed Barramundi and Tara-marinated prawns grilled just right added a coastal flourish to the mix.

Right next to the BBQ, don’t miss the Sizzling Tandoori Delights. We loved the Tandoori Chicken and Seabass, and the Chukandari Paneer Tikka stood out for its bold seasoning. Pair everything with fresh naan bread for a complete experience.

A must-have at Oscar’s: the Signature Seafood Laksa at the Live Noodles Station. Rich, creamy and comforting, served with tofu puff, prawns, fish cake and a quail egg.

Fresh Strawberries

Macarons

To end on a sweet note, the buffet's dessert selection is a dream come true for strawberry lovers. Fresh strawberries shine across shortcakes, praline tarts, mousse domes, and the signature Strawberry Romanoff. The fruit's tartness and aroma cut through the savoury dishes with perfect balance.

Almond Strawberry Tart

Strawberry Cheesecake

Strawberry-Inspired Chocolate Bar

Other strawberry-inspired delights include:

• Almond Strawberry Tart
• Strawberry Cheesecake
• Strawberry-infused Chocolate Bar
• Strawberry Panna Cotta
• Macarons

Strawberry Pannacotta

The Sea, Smoke & Spice dinner buffet is available from Wednesdays to Saturdays, 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and is priced at S$96++ per adult and S$48++ per child (aged 6 to 12). Reservations are highly recommended at https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/oscars

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
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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]