Author: Rebekah Lee

Behind The Scenes with Iron Chef Sezai Zorlu – the Artist Behind Turkuaz and Warung

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date July 26, 2017
No Comments on Behind The Scenes with Iron Chef Sezai Zorlu – the Artist Behind Turkuaz and Warung

Ready for a sneak peek into the mind of one of Indonesia’s top chefs? We were lucky enough to score a chat with Iron Chef Sezai Zorlu, who moved to Indonesia from the beautifully picturesque small town of Iskenderun (in the South East of Turkey), and who has quickly became one of Indonesia’s finest. If you’ve visited either one of his incredible restaurants (Turkuaz or Warung Turki), you’d understand exactly why – he serves up homely, authentic Turkish cuisine that comes from the heart. Honestly, is there anything better than that?

RL: Who or what is your inspiration for doing what you do?

SZ: Definitely my mother and my grandmother. They cooked for my family all their life with so much love, and the food was always so good. They contributed so much to the happiness of the family and that motivates me to push myself to do better each and every time.

RL: Aw, that’s so sweet. They sound like incredible women! So, since your dad’s a chef, who’s a better cook: mum or dad, and why?

SZ: My mum! She’s a self-taught home cook and my father is a chef, but home cooking is always the best. It tastes better and feels better, because it’s prepared with such incredible love and care because it’s for your family.

RL: If you could live your life all over again, would you do anything differently?

SZ: Not at all. I would do everything exactly the same, just bigger – including the mistakes and successes.

RL: What is the one thing you could eat forever and not get sick of?

SZ: Donner kebab, because it is my identity, my city, my national dish.

RL: Donner kebab is DELISH, it’s really comfort food at its finest! What would you say is your favourite childhood snack?

SZ: Dried figs. My mum would buy 20-30kg bags of dried figs during the wintertime, put them on top of the kitchen cabinet, and give each of us 3-4 pieces every night. It’s my favourite thing: sitting around the heater, watching a fun programme on TV, talking with family, snacking on our dried figs. It’s a memory that’s filled with love.

RL: That’s such a nice memory! And figs are so darn tasty. Totally craving one now… What’s the one food item you cannot stand eating?

SZ: Exotic animals like sharks fin. I’m not interested in exotic animals – I’ll never touch them.

RL: How would you describe your Iron Chef experience in less than 5 words?

SZ: Fantastic, I love it, fantastic!

Interior of Turkuaz

Find Turkuaz at Jl. Gunawarman No. 32, Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta Selatan
Book a table at Turkuaz and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Find Warung Turki at Jl. Kemang Raya No. 18A, Jakarta 12730
Book a table at Warung Turki and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Chef Sezai Zorlu, Feature, Interview, Mediterranean, Turkish

Destination Features Hacks & How-Tos Singapore

Pairing Wines with Local Food with CellaRaid

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date July 20, 2017
1 Comment on Pairing Wines with Local Food with CellaRaid

We know, wine pairings can be pretty intimidating to the uninitiated (especially when deviating from the standard red-wine-and-steak variety), but we have great news for you: we managed to get hold of the experts over at CellaRaid who were more than happy to give us a couple of valuable tips and pointers!

First and foremost, here’s a serious pro tip: pair wines with local foods (as opposed to traditional ‘western’ fare) and you’ll incur zero corkage charges (most of the time, anyway)! Local restaurants, along with zi char and hawker food stalls, are usually more relaxed about patrons bringing their own wines (do so for your own drinking pleasure, obviously, don’t go around hawking the stuff) since they don’t usually have their own wine list.

A typical Asian meal also offers a large variety of dishes, which translates to a much larger margin for error, since there’s such a broad range of food you can pair your wine with!

Pairing Singaporean Dishes and Wine: A Quick Guide

Build on guidelines, and take sauces into consideration
You’re probably somewhat knowledgeable about the basic guidelines: white meat usually goes with white wine, and red meat usually goes with red wine. The beauty of Asian food is its complexity – various meats are cooked in all sorts of different sauces, and these transform the taste of those meats. Take fish, for example – it’s usually a white meat that pairs well with white wine, but when cooked with something strong and rich like a black bean sauce, it goes much better with a light to medium-bodied red!
Think of wine as a condiment – would it go well with your food?
Our well-loved chicken rice is a great way to illustrate this point. This dish usually goes with chili and dark soy sauce that lends the dish a slightly sweet flavour, so you could pair with a slightly fruity wine like a Chenin Blanc or Moscato. Spicy food usually has a more robust flavour, so go with something that would complement it and which has enough ‘weight’ to hold its own amidst the fire in your mouth like a full -bodied Shiraz pairing with tandoori chicken. Alternatively, for spicier dishes like Sze Chuan food, you could pair with something crisp with a bit of fizz to cleanse the palate, like Prosecco.
Either opt for ‘contrast’ or ‘complement’ when pairing
Choose a lighter wine if the dish is lighter – like a glass of Sauvignon Blanc with salt baked, lightly grilled, or steamed fish, and a medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir or Rose when having fatty fish like tuna or salmon. Or you could go in the complete opposite of the taste spectrum and pair a a lusciously sweet dessert wine like a late harvest Riesling with a savory and salty dish with salted egg yolks – it really depends on what you like!
Think of traditional pairings and build from it
Sushi usually goes with sake, but when looking for a similar profile in wine, a Champagne with that tell-tale sake-like nutty and creamy nuances would be a perfect fit as well! Likewise, if you’re looking to pair wine with lup cheong, look for wines that you usually have with charcuterie, as they’re pretty similar.
Be your own judge. Buy a variety of food items, get one or two bottles of wine, and try it out for yourself!
Wine is supposed to be fun! No one is judging you, so let your personal preferences be your guide and experiment.

CellaRaid offers monthly subscription discovery boxes that contain 3 vials of different carefully curated wine options, and they all come with tasting notes and food pairings so you can discover what you truly enjoy without spending a lot for an entire bottle!

To answer some of the more general questions most of you may have:

What are the best wines for beginners?

Moscato! This one is very light and often times comes across like a soft drink (i.e. Sprite). As most Singaporean food is pretty spicy and/or flavourful (like the ubiquitous Char Kway Teow), this is the easiest to pair them with. It’s slightly sweet and refreshing, and normally works well with most Asian dishes. For those without a sweet tooth, Sauvignon Blanc is also a good alternative- it’s dry, crisp and very versatile, usually providing zip to the dish.

The reason these are both white wines is simple: the spice in most Asian foods have the tendency to interfere with the tannins (from the grape skins that make a wine red) in red wines, making the dish spicier and the wine more tannic. However, a heavy bodied Shiraz could hold up to some curries (as they tend to be spicy as well) – but they’re not an easy wine for the uninitiated to appreciate. White wine is usually a safer choice!

How to choose a wine at a restaurant

Your best bet is to go for a mid-ranged option! They usually cost $60-$90 and most wine lists at this price range will normally feature Moscatos, Sauvignon Blancs, and Chardonnays for whites, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz for reds. Besides considering the food that you are ordering, a person’s palate also plays a big part in the wine selection – if you’re someone that’s used to enjoying robustly flavoured foods, certain wines are bound to taste pretty watered down to you (i.e. Pinot Noir), so go for a heavier bodied option like a Shiraz. One tip is not to order the house wine by the bottle, as tempting as the pricing may be. Paying just a bit more for a bottle can usually mean much more in quality and satisfaction!

How to choose wine as a gift

First and foremost, make sure that it looks presentable (half the time people judge a wine by its label along with its taste), and most importantly, stick to your budget – don’t get too fancy unless you know they really appreciate wine. The safest option is a red wine – it’s hardier and can be stored for a longer period of time outside of a proper wine fridge without going bad. Champagne may look nice as a gift, but is more susceptible to damage from improper storage, so only get it if you know it’s going to be opened soon or the receiver has a wine fridge.

When is an expensive wine worth the price?

This is really based on personal preference – some people love aged wines, and some hate it! Most good wines will age in the bottle – they evolve and gain secondary flavours like earthy, umami notes while primary fruit flavours mellow down. However, not everyone appreciates drinking a non fruit-driven wine. An important thing to take note of when buying aged wines is to know who you’re buying from – storage in Singapore is KEY due to its hot and humid climate. Also, ensure that you have proper storage at home if you’re planning to buy and keep expensive aged wine, or it’ll be a complete waste of money! Under the bed or in a dark cabinet don’t make the cut as wine storage options in tropical Singapore.

What to serve at a party to appeal to many guests

Choose uncommon and more interesting wines, like those from Portugal, Argentina, Eastern European countries or some of the lesser known regions of France (i.e. Madiran) and Italy (i.e. Sicily) to offer your guests a brand new experience! Avoid the standard wines from popular wine-producing areas and try something new. For the more adventurous, China and India also produce wine, and Chinese wines have recently been on the radar of wine critics (they aren’t messing around)! Currently, natural and biodynamic wines are all the rage now and some of these make for interesting dinner conversations so do seek them out.

It’s important to not get wines that are too cheap as well – pay a little more to get something a lot better, especially when you’re buying it in Singapore. Alchohol tax is already $10, and after factoring in GST, shipping, handling, and storage, the base cost just to bring a bottle of wine onto the shelves is probably $15-18. Do the math and you will realise that only a couple of dollars goes into actually paying for the wine itself. Comparatively, every incremental dollar paid after that would directly go to the wine cost and presumably quality as well.

This cannot be over-emphasized: you’re your own best judge, so give different varieties of wine a try and figure out what you like for yourself! You’ll never really know unless you try. Cellartracker and Vivino are free to use community review sites that are pretty helpful to find out more about a specific wine, Google is your best friend, and CellaRaid is here to help you expand your palate (and to help you save money, since you don’t have to commit to buying multiple full-sized bottles at one go!) Click here to check them out!

Tags Cheap, Cheap and Good, Dessert, Dinner, Guides, Pocket-friendly, Wine

Features Restaurants

BBQ Tips with Meat Smith

If you’ve ever eaten at Meat Smith, you’d definitely been wowed by the glorious cuts of tender smoked meats they have on offer. Lucky for you, we got to sit down with the geniuses behind all that meaty goodness and let you in on some of their trade secrets!

Five Tips from Chef Andrew

First and foremost, let’s talk about the star of the dish – the meat. This shouldn’t be compromised and for a good reason: when you sacrifice a good foundation, you’re compromising the entire operation. So do your ‘buds a favour and don’t skimp on the premium stuff!
Keep the seasoning simple – just salt and pepper will do. Good meats that are done well have beautiful, natural flavours that shouldn’t be overpowered by excessive seasoning. In fact, it’s a novice mistake to overload on complicated rubs and spices.
For the smoking wood, most will work fine but do stay away from cedars due to the harsh soot it produces when burned (trust the experts, you do NOT want that getting into your meats!).
Controlling temperature using the external and internal thermometer plays a vital role in obtaining a good smoke. Excessive heat renders the meat too tough, ruining a perfectly good slab.
Lastly – but most importantly – let the meat rest. This is key to finishing off a good barbecue! Once the meat is done cooking, keep it wrapped and let rest in a warm place (i.e. an oven) for at least an hour. We know it’s tempting to cut into a perfectly charred piece hot off the grill…but resist, and your efforts will be well rewarded.

Smoking @ Meat Smith

For the smoking process, Chef Andrew uses Hickory Wood that’s imported from the USA. The reason for this choice? Hickory Wood is subtle when fired-up but imparts a nice, rounded smoky flavour to the meats it is used to smoke (YUM). Beef is usually smoked for 12 hours, chicken for 2 hours, and pork for 3 to 4 depending on the cut.

In the event you aren’t quite ready to fire up your own grill, head down to Meat Smith for some juicy, mouthwatering cuts prepared by the experts!

The Smoked Chicken is DELICIOUS. It’s smoked to perfection – moist and tender with well-seasoned, gently crisp skin, made even better with a drizzle of zesty Alabama white sauce and a side of pickled cucumbers, beetroot and butterhead lettuce salad to freshen up the palate.

This juicy piece of poultry may seem slightly undercooked to the uninitiated as it’s pink on the inside, but smoked chicken is meant to be pink; the nitrate in the smoke reacts with the moisture in the meat during the smoking process, rendering it pink even though it’s well-cooked through. You’re free to chow down with a peace of mind!

Annnnd before you dismiss the idea of a salad as an accompaniment to a big ole’ hunk of meat, let us just stop you right there. Meat Smith’s unassuming plate of butterhead lettuce with balsamic dressing and fresh onion slivers is much more flavourful than its humble appearance implies.. The lettuce is sweet and crisp, which helps balance out all the flavours from the heavy meats, and Balsamic dressing gives a nice, tart kick with every bite of the lettuce – each mouthful leaves you wanting more!

Next up is the Burnt Ends, an indulgent plate of beautifully smoked meats, taken from the burnt ends of Smoked Beef Brisket (hence the name). The bourbon BBQ glaze gives it a satisfyingly sticky texture and savoury-sweet flavour nicely complements the fatty meat, best enjoyed with a jalapeno pepper or two!

With every good meal comes a beverage to help wash all that yummy food down, so don’t miss their amazing sodas, which are all made in-house! Our pick is the Southern Iced Tea, which, unlike its original inspiration, is mellow and simple yet insanely refreshing. Flavoured with spices such as cardamom and cinnamon, this tall glass of beverage is light and addictive – trust us when we say that one glass isn’t going to be enough! If lavender is your thing, go for their simple and refreshing Lavender Soda. It’s perfect in Singapore’s sweltering heat, and goes quite well with their hearty plates!

Whether you’re manning the grill or smoker yourself, or letting the masters take the helm, be sure to take the time to enjoy some grilled treats this summer. It’s hard to go wrong with such a delicious method of cooking!

Find it at 167 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore (068618)
Book a table at Meat Smith and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Feature, Smoked Meat, Steak

Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: 7 Restaurants You Shouldn’t Miss in July!

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date July 7, 2017
No Comments on Fresh Eats: 7 Restaurants You Shouldn’t Miss in July!

Ready for a brand new month of fresh eats? We know we are, so let’s just dive right in!

Thyme @Rochester

This beautifully furnished garden-themed outdoors cafe is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s busy city life, and the perfect place for laid-back get-togethers with the people you love – made even better with generous portions of delicious food and various gluten free and vegetarian options, so there’s something for everyone!
Dishes we love: Traditional Cream of Mushroom with Truffle Oil, Quatro Formaggi, Boeuf a la Bourguignon

Find it at 44 Rochester Park, Singapore (139248)
Book a table at Thyme @Rochester and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Five Marbles Craft Beer Restaurant

Here’s the recipe for a perfect night out: great ambience, delicious food, and a glass of ice cold beer – and lucky for you, Five Marbles Craft Beer Restaurant has got you covered on all fronts! There are 12 amazing craft beers on tap for you to try out at amazingly affordable prices, and a mouth-watering selection of dishes and bar bites to complement your drink of choice.
Dishes we love: Beer Braised Pork Belly Linguine, Youngsters Double Chocolate Stout, Gosnells Citrus Sea Mead, Beer Fat Grilled Marbles

Find it at 9 Bras Basah Rd, Singapore 189559
Click here for more info on Five Marbles Craft Beer Restaurant

Craft Feeds

Calling all beer lovers: you’re in for a real treat, for there’s one more boozy option for you this month! Craft Feeds has fifteen varieties of draught and bottled beers lined up for your drinking pleasure, along with cocktails, a couple of wine options, and sharing plates; so invite a couple of friends along and make this a group affair!
Dishes we love: Pork Cheeks with Marmite Butter, Parsnip, Charred Baby Corn and Mustard Mayo, Flame-seared Salmon, Lost Coast Indica IPA

Find it at 13 Duxton Hill Singapore 089597 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089597
Click here for more info on Craft Feeds

Jiakpalang Eating House Jiakpalang Eating House mushroom

Jiakpalang Eating House

Singapore’s hawker scene is well-known worldwide for a reason – our local food is simply too good to pass up! This restaurant capitalises on our love for local cuisine with Singaporean zi-char, but with a modern twist. Pay them a visit to experience the novelty of it all, and return for great comfort food at affordable prices.
Dishes we love: Signature Sesame Soy Chicken Rice, 24 Hour Wagyu Beef Brisket Bowl

Find it at 456 Alexandra Road, #01-04/ 06 Fragrance Empire Building, Singapore 119962
Book a table at Jiakpalang Eating House and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Venue by Chef Sebastian

Chef Sebastian Ng of the popular former Ember Restaurant is back at it again, but this time with casual, contemporary European cuisine! It’s casual, unpretentious and right in the heart of central Singapore, so you have every reason to visit!
Dishes we love: Chilean Seabass with Mushroom & Bacon Ragout and Truffle Yuzu Butter, Grilled Octopus with Burnt Butter, Capers and Bean Puree

Find it at 6A Shenton Way Downtown Gallery Unit 01-02, Singapore 068815
Click here for more info on Venue by Sebastian

Harāru Izakaya

This Izakaya (casual Japanese gastropub) isn’t much of an Izakaya at all, as it’s one of the few that doesn’t serve alcohol simply because it’s Muslim-owned and halal certified – great news for our Muslim readers and for those of us trying to cut back on our alcohol intake! That shouldn’t be your only reason for visiting though – they also serve up delish finger food, a plethora of indulgent grilled items, and all sorts of Japanese delights that are bound to satisfy all your cravings!
Dishes we love: Gyu Nitsuke, Surume Ika, Matcha Soy Tea

Find it at 16 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199437
Click here for more info on Harāru Izakaya

Pura Brasa

Pura Brasa is a gastronomic grill restaurant that hails from the land of great tapas, seafood, and all things bright and beautiful (Spain, if it wasn’t obvious enough); so look no further if you’re a fan of delicious, high quality meats prepared by a top-of-the-line JOSPER Charcoal Oven, sangrias, and tapas – Pura Brasa is definitely the place to be!
Dishes we love: Grilled Gilthead, Mussels, Grilled Lamb Chops

Find it at 5 Wallich Street #01-16, Tanjong Pagar Centre, 078883
Click here for more info on Pura Brasa

Tags Cafe, Cocktails, Coffee, Drinks, Fresh Eats, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Guides, High Tea, Japanese, New Restaurants, Newly-opened, Seafood

Destination Singapore

Brand New on the Michelin Guide

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date June 30, 2017
No Comments on Brand New on the Michelin Guide

We’ve updated our guide to all the Michelin starred-restaurants on Chope, and are all set to help you on your quest to indulge at Singapore’s most prestigious restaurants. If you’re looking for something new and exciting on this exclusive list, we’ve got you covered as well! Read on for eight brand new restaurants to drool over, and trust us when we say you should Chope them now before the inevitable three-month wait materialises!

Meta Restaurant

Dining at Meta is an adventure in of itself. Their sprawling open kitchen allows you to get up close and personal with the magical Chef Sun Kim and his talented team as you eagerly await your exquisite French-Korean meal. Our personal favourites? Their fresh and zesty Oyster with Lemon & Pomelo and Wagyu Bulgogi with Egg Jelly & Korean Pear Kimchi for sure!

Find it at 9 Keong Saik Road, Singapore (089117)
Book a table at Meta Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Whitegrass

This contemporary fine-dining Australian restaurant at CHIJMES serves up beautifully balanced dishes with a fresh, unconventional twist, all in a homely, relaxed environment – a tricky combination for sure. All the more impressive then that chef-owner Sam Aisbett pulls it all off with such aplomb. Don’t leave without ordering the melt-in-your-mouth Slow Cooked Mangalica Pork Jowl that’s brimming with umami goodness, and remember to finish off your meal with their delectable Feijoa Ice Cream!

Find it at 30 Victoria Street, #01-26/27, CHIJMES, Singapore (187996)
Book a table at Whitegrass and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Restaurant Labyrinth

This whimsical restaurant boasts beautifully intricate creations that are almost too pretty to eat – until you get a whiff of how great everything smells. Then, we assure you, you’ll be licking the plate clean! Restaurant Labyrinth takes well-loved Singaporean classics like Chili Crab, Curry Rice, and Moonlight Hor Fun to an entirely new level with Chef LG Han’s mesmerising creativity. Any Singaporean foodie will be delighted to indulge here, that’s for sure!

Find it at 8 Raffles Avenue #02-23, Esplanade Mall, Singapore (039802)
Book a table at Restaurant Labyrinth and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Saint Pierre

Enjoy scrumptious fine-dining coupled with phenomenal views of Marina Bay at Saint Pierre by Chef Emmanuel Stroobant, and prepare to be blown away by all their “Essence-Centric” delights – a term that refers to the way essences (derived from premium seasonal produce) are used as stock and seasonings for dishes that are both tasty AND healthy! Be sure to give the Vanilla Oil Marinated Momotaro Tomato, and Cod with Oxtail and Daikon a whirl! You won’t regret it!

Find it at 1 Fullerton Road, #02-02B, One Fullerton, Singapore (049213)
Book a table at Saint Pierre and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar

We can say with authority that Chef-owner Robert Galetti does Italian food right. This classy restaurant serves up perfectly cooked pasta and other authentic Italian dishes made up of only the best, freshest ingredients they can get their hands on. Everything here is delightful, and we mean everything – from the bread you’re offered to start right through to the indulgent end of dolce and formaggi. Our personal favourites? The Gnocchi Al Gorgonzola, Braciola di Maiale and their special Tiramisu’ of Mamma Bice. Buon appetito!

Find it at 36 Purvis Street, #01-02, Singapore (188613)
Book a table at Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Cheek by Jowl

If you’re tired of having the same old thing over and over again, your search for something novel and exciting is over – Chef Rishi Naleendra highlights and reinterprets modern Australian dishes at Cheek by Jowl for the ultimate gastronomic experience! The Duck & Waffles is a signature dish not to be missed, and their Coconut with Laksa Leaf Ice Cream is one of the most decadent desserts we’ve ever had. YUM.

Find it at 21 Boon Tat Street, Singapore (069620)
Book a table at Cheek by Jowl and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Braci

Singapore river sunset? Check. Drink in hand? Check. Delicious Italian fare? Check and check. Charcoal takes center stage at this open-kitchen restaurant, and everything that comes out of the kitchen is smoky and succulent as a result – especially their smoked Duck Breast and Grass Fed Beef Tenderloin! It doesn’t matter if you’re on a intimate romantic date or out with 10 of your bestest friends, ‘cause Braci is definitely the place to tempt your tummy with all manner of deliciozo treats.

Find it at 52 Boat Quay, Level 5, Singapore (049841)
Book a table at Braci and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Summer Palace

Long lauded as one of Singapore’s preeminent Cantonese restaurants, a star for Summer Palace at Regent Singapore comes as no surprise to those that have dined there. Chef Liu Ching Hai offers a stunning spread of dim sum including a dim sum of the month that promises to showcase the peak flavours of the season. Wok-fried, roasted, steamed, or double boiled, the mastery over Cantonese cuisine’s many disciplines is undeniable… And delicious.

Find it at 1 Cuscaden Road, Level 3, The Regent Singapore, Singapore (249715)
Book a table at Summer Palace and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Dessert, Good View, Guides, Healthy, High Tea, Michelin

Bangkok Destination Others

7 of the Best Restaurants in Bangkok for Mookata & Grilled Meat

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date June 29, 2017
No Comments on 7 of the Best Restaurants in Bangkok for Mookata & Grilled Meat

There’s a reason why people keep going back for grilled meat despite the fact that it leaves them smelling strongly of food and smoke – barbecued food is simply too good to pass up! Here are some places in Bangkok you can get your grill on.

Photo credits: Best Beef

Best Beef

Best Beef is one of Bangkok’s most popular Mookata restaurants, and for good reason – feast on a plethora of all-you-can-eat grilled meats and seafood for two whole hours for a mere 300 baht along with ice cold beers and delicious soft-serve ice-cream to combat the heat!

Find it at 1490/2 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok, Thailand
Click here for more info on Best Beef

Photo credits: Pla Thong Mookata

Pla Thong Mookata

This takes cheap BBQ to a whole new level – this free flow meat buffet will only set you back about 190 baht. It’s usually packed with locals instead of the usual hordes of tourists, so you know you’re at the right place. It’s truly the perfect place to fill your stomach without burning a hole in your pocket!

Find it at Phaya Thai Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Click here for more info on Pla Thong Mookata

Riverside Grill

Tired of slaving over hot coals? Have someone do it for you at Riverside Grill! Sit back, relax, and soak in glorious views of the Chao Phraya River while tucking into deliciously juicy Wagyu Beef Rib Eye or succulent grilled Jumbo Prawns. Life doesn’t get any better than this!

Find it at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Charoen Krung Soi 30, Bangkok, Thailand
Book a table at Riverside Grill and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Photo credits: BAR-B-Q Plaza

BAR-B-Q Plaza

BAR-B-Q Plaza is a popular chain restaurant you can find all over Thailand that serves high-quality meats (including luscious cuts of kurobuta black pork) for just 400 baht! This establishment is favoured by both locals and tourists alike, so power through the long queues to get yourself a seat – we promise it’s worth it.

Find it at 4, 4 / 1-2, Central World, 6th Floor, Rajdamri Road, Khet Pathumwan, Bangkok, Thailand
Click here for more info on BAR-B-Q Plaza

Lady Brett Tavern

This popular restaurant in the heart of Bangkok is a hotspot for everything and anything grilled – head on down for deliciously tender Australian Black Angus Ribeye steak, tender and juicy Pulled Pork burgers, and everything else you could possibly want. The best part? You don’t have to do any of it yourself!

Find it at 149 Sathorn Soi 12, Bangkok, Thailand
Book a table at Lady Brett Tavern and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

salang
Photo credits: Salang

Salang

If you’ve already had your fill of Thai barbecue and you’re craving something else, Salang’s here to save the day with delish Korean BBQ! It’s one of Bangkok’s most popular K-BBQ restaurants, so come on over and stuff yourself with all the flavoured meats, ddeokbokki, and kimchi soup you can possibly fit in your stomach for the price of 330 baht.

Find it at 69/29 Phayathai Rd, Khwaeng Thanon Phaya Thai, Khet Ratchathewi, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand
Click here for more info on Salang

Photo credits: Gyuma BBQ

Gyuma Japanese BBQ Buffet

499 baht for all-you-can-eat Japanese BBQ? Count us in! This well-loved yakiniku restaurant has a wide array of beef, pork, prawns, squid and other delights marinated in their well-loved special sauce that gives the grilled meats a sweet yet savoury taste – we promise you’ll leave satisfied!

Find it at 25/12 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Click here for more info on Gyuma Japanese BBQ Buffet

Tags Buffet, Cheap, Cheap and Good, Good View, Guides, High Tea, Japanese, Pocket-friendly, Seafood

Destination Singapore

7 Restaurants to Satisfy Your Korean Food Cravings

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date June 16, 2017
No Comments on 7 Restaurants to Satisfy Your Korean Food Cravings

We know that the K-wave (or tsunami) has hit the world hard in the past few years in the form of music, TV shows, killer makeup looks, and fashion styles, but the best thing that came out of it has to be the flurry of amazing Korean restaurants that popped up all over our little island! Here are some of the best places you can get your fix of delish Korean food:

(This little guy really serves no purpose here, I just thought he was super cute. You’re welcome.)

BORNGA

You can’t go wrong with a restaurant as established as BORNGA – there are more than 30 branches in Korea alone, so expect only the best from this KBBQ place! Be sure to try the Haemul Pajeon (Korean scallion pancakes) and Woo Samgyup (thinly sliced beef drenched in their signature sauce), I promise you won’t regret it!

Find it at 3 Temasek Boulevard, #01-641/642, Suntec City, Singapore (038983)
Book a table at BORNGA and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Hyangtogol Korean Restaurant

Hyangtogol Korean Restaurant is THE restaurant to go to for truly authentic Korean food in Singapore. It was recently named one of the world’s top five overseas Korean restaurants by the Korean Food Foundation, so head on down for Korean goodies like Ginseng Chicken and Bibimbap – any more authentic and you’d have to fly to Korea to get your fix!

Find it at 252 North Bridge Road, B1-74, Raffles City Shopping Centre, Singapore (179103)
Book a table at Hyangtogol Korean Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Chicken Up

There’s nothing quite like biting into the crispy skin of a golden, juicy piece of Korean fried chicken, and Chicken Up does it just right! There are three different versions for you to choose from: give their classic soy-garlic version a spin, dig into their signature Spicy Up chicken for a satisfying kick, or try out their YangNyum-style chicken for a delightful sweet and spicy combo – perfect paired with a glass of ice cold beer or soju! Hey, if it’s good enough for Koreans, it’s good enough for me.

Find it at 176 Orchard Road, #01-33H, The Centrepoint, Singapore (238843)
Book a table at Chicken Up and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Ho Rang I

You know what they say, home-cooked food is always the best food, but if you don’t have a Korean family, this family-style restaurant comes close! Their appetisers are amazing: the Jap Chae (sweet potato vermicelli) is to die for and their Budaejjigae (Korean Army Stew) is one of the best I’ve ever had – it’s well balanced, tasty and comforting – definitely something that’ll leave you wanting more. So pack up the entire family (aunties and uncles included) and head down for some top-notch family-style K-chow.

Find it at 165 Thomson Road, Goldhill Centre, Singapore (307618)
Book a table at Ho Rang I and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Vatos Urban Tacos

Korean-Mexican fare? SIGN ME UP. They’re both incredibly flavourful and pack a powerful punch, so it’s no surprise these two cuisines are perfect together. Get your hands on Kimchi Carnitas Fries, Kimchi Pork Quesadillas, and a plethora of other delicious fusion food done right – and wash all of it down with some of their signature margaritas for a great night out! I recommend the Sexy Sanchez, but be sure to book a cab ‘cause you’ll want more than one and these babies pack a punch.

Find it at 36 Beach Road, #01-03, Singapore (189677)
Book a table at Vatos Urban Tacos and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

8 Korean BBQ

This industrial-chic barbecue joint relies on only the best cuts of meat to truly elevate your KBBQ experience to a whole new level. Here you can get your hands on flavourful Mangalitsa pork and beautifully marbled Ohmi Wagyu beef, served however you like: marinated, as-is, or cooked in a delicious stew! Be sure to try their signature Eight Colours Set that features eight different varieties of pork belly, all bound to leave you feeling satisfied.

Find it at 1 Scotts Road, #04-20/21, Shaw Centre, Singapore (228208)
Book a table at 8 Korean BBQ and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Photo credits: Chir Chir

Chir Chir

It’s hard to understand how anyone could possibly get bored of the taste of classic Korean fried chicken, but if you’re jonesin’ for something new, Chir Chir (South Korea’s largest chain of restaurants, by the way) is here to save the day! This popular fried chicken restaurant serves up their famous Honey Butter Chicken that’s sweet, salty, buttery and everything else that’s good in the world. YUM.

Find it at 313 Orchard Road, #B3-04/05/06
Click here for more info on Chir Chir

Tags Guides, Korean

Deals & Specials Destination Events Singapore

Celebrate Chope’s Birthday with Epic Deals!

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date June 9, 2017
No Comments on Celebrate Chope’s Birthday with Epic Deals!

Chope’s thrilled to be turning six this year, and we’d like to extend our celebrations to you with a bunch of amazing birthday deals that are bound to blow you away! Here’s a sneak peek of what’s to come:

Monday, 12th June, 8am

Riddle me this: what does half a succulent A La Plancha Lobster from Umi + Vino, a half slab of smoky Memphis-Style Hickory-Smoked Barbeque Pork Ribs from Jerry’s BBQ & Grill and delish Truffle Duck Confit Tacos from REDPAN have in common? They’re all going for $1 each, amongst a plethora of other mouthwatering dishes from a bunch of well-loved restaurants around Singapore!

Click here for more info, T&Cs apply

Tuesday, 13th June, 8am

One more #ChopeThrill just for you: earn a whopping 600 Chope-Dollars (500 extra Chope-Dollars!) when you make an in-app restaurant booking on the 13th of June! Just in case you’re new to Chope, here’s a helpful page that’ll answer any questions you may have regarding the redemption of Chope-Dollars (long story short: they can be used to redeem dining vouchers!).

Click here for more info, T&Cs apply

Thursday, 15th June, 8am

We’re giving out virtual goodie bags on our actual birthday in the form of a flash sale of EPIC proportions, and here are some of the amazing deals up for grabs:

Up to 50% Off Chope Vouchers with Visa
$25 for $50 Vouchers
$70 for $100 Vouchers

Visa cardholders rejoice – get up to 50% off your meal at top restaurants like New Ubin Seafood, Wooloomooloo Steakhouse, The Boiler and many more of your favourite places! Enter the exclusive page with the first 6 digits of your Visa card where you can purchase a $50 voucher at more than 20 of Chope’s top restaurants for just $25, so you have all the more reason to go out and eat to your heart’s content.

Click here for more info – also, take note that quantities are limited, so you have to act fast!

$0.60 Buffet Deals

Grab a pair of buffet vouchers while stocks last and celebrate with someone you love – the 2nd diner gets to feast for just 60 cents at buffet restaurants like Escape Restaurant & Lounge, Atrium Restaurant and Oscar’s! If this doesn’t get you excited, we don’t know what will!

Click here for more info, T&Cs apply

6% In-App Discounts

It’s an opportune time to treat yourself to voucher purchases, as you get to save an additional 6% off ALL in-app voucher purchases on the 15th of June! The subtotal shown in the app will automatically reflect all prices after the discount so don’t worry, we’ve already done all the work for you 😉

Click here for more info, T&Cs apply

Tags Buffet, Seafood, Vouchers

Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: 9 New Restaurants to Check Out this June!

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date June 5, 2017
No Comments on Fresh Eats: 9 New Restaurants to Check Out this June!

Another month has come and gone, and now we have nine more spanking new restaurants for you to try! Time to ditch your diet and indulge at these amazing new joints.

Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant

Remember being filled with jealousy and yearning while scrolling through your Instagram/Facebook feed during cherry blossom season when half your friendlist was strolling around Japan, chowing down on freshly cut (and caught!) sashimi at Tsukiji Fish Market? Now it’s your turn to treat yourself to a smorgasbord of Japanese delights at Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant, right here in Orchard Central! (So much cheaper than a trip to Japan, and almost as good.)

Find it at 181 Orchard Road, #12-02, Orchard Central, 238896
Book a table at Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Aburiya and The Container

Aburiya is well-known for their exquisite, marbled cuts of wagyu beef, and they recently fused their yakiniku concept with a tapas and cocktail bar! Head down to Aburiya and The Container by Boat Quay for smoky grilled meats, small plates, and delish cocktails – you’ll definitely find something you fancy here!

Find it at 78-79 Boat Quay, 049866
Book a table at Aburiya and The Container and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Bottega Kitchen & More

Not a fan of restaurants that charge exorbitant prices for bite-sized portions of fancy fusion food and leave you feeling hungry (and $100 poorer)? If so, you’re definitely going to love Bottega Kitchen & More. Dig into unpretentious, no-frills, hearty, authentic Italian fare at prices that won’t make your wallet beg for mercy. Save the fancier fare for a special occasion!

Find it at 31 Hong Kong Street, 059670
Book a table at Bottega Kitchen & More and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Coriander Leaf Grill

How can anyone in their right mind pass up anything charcoal grilled? Coriander Leaf Grill is owned by the same exemplary team behind the established Coriander Leaf Restaurant, and serves up contemporary Asian-style charcoal grilled dishes alongside bespoke cocktails, wines, and beers on tap. Count us in!

Find it at 12 Ann Siang Rd, 069692
Book a table at Coriander Leaf Grill and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Royal-Palm-Interior

Royal Palm at Clarke Quay

Settle in for a tasty set lunch that’ll only set you back $20++ while enjoying views of the Singapore river in this hidden oasis in the heart of Clarke Quay. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day at work!

Find it at 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, #04-86/87, The Central, 059817
Book a table at Royal Palm at Clarke Quay and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Zaffron Banana Leaf

Delicious, aromatic Indian food at wallet friendly prices? Yes, please! Zaffron Banana Leaf was opened by the culinary geniuses behind Zaffron Kitchen, so rest assured you’ll be in good hands. We promise you’ll leave this establishment already planning your next visit!

Find it at 65 Jurong West Central 3, 648332
Book a table at Zaffron Banana Leaf and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Royal Palm at Orchid Country Club

Royal Palm strikes again, but this time with an amazing buffet spread. We’re talking local, Indian, western, and Mediterranean cuisine along with fresh seafood – there’s truly something for everyone here. Did we mention it’s a steal for only $30++/pax? See you there!

Find it at 1 Orchid Club Rd, 769162
Click here for more info on Royal Palm at Orchid Country Club

I’m Kim Junior

I’m Kim has opened up a brand new outlet at *SCAPE that serves delicious KBBQ at insanely affordable prices. But just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, this fun, quirky restaurant also serves up free-flow Chicken and Seafood Galbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) and alongside scrumptious slabs of marinated meat and other Korean goodies! Head on down as soon as you can, your stomach (and wallet) will thank you for it.

Find it at 2 Orchard Link #03-01, 237978
Click here for more info on I’m Kim Junior

HolyCrab

HolyCrab is armed with an ambitious mission: elevate the beloved Singapore-style crab to a whole new level. The classic butter crab is known as “Devil’s Crab” here, and the salted egg yolk has been renamed the Orgasmic Crab – but does it truly live up to the hype? Head on down and find out for yourself, we promise you won’t regret it!

Find it at 2 Tan Quee Lan Street, #01-03, 188091
Book a table at HolyCrab and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Buffet, Cheap, Cheap and Good, Cocktails, Drinks, Fresh Eats, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Good View, Guides, Japanese, Lunch, New Restaurants, Newly-opened, Pocket-friendly, Seafood

Destination Save/Splurge Singapore

Save vs Splurge: Singapore Edition

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 31, 2017
No Comments on Save vs Splurge: Singapore Edition

Singaporean food is well known for being both inexpensive and amazing, but if you don’t want to seem kiam siap (stingy), or if you just want to escape sweltering heat, there are pricier versions of our favourite cheap eats that are perfect for dining out with clients or foreign friends. It’s up to you to decide!

Photo credit:The Coconut Club

Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak is flipping AMAZING, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Abandon your diet plans, throw all caution to the wind, and tuck into fragrant, coconut-flavoured rice topped with delish sambal chili, a fried egg, deep fried ikan bilis and peanuts, and a couple of deep fried chicken wings or pan fried fish for good measure. Feel free to add on other goodies like otah, stewed vegetables, or fried fish balls at some of Singapore’s favourite haunts: Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak if you’re in the west, or Ponggol Nasi Lemak if you’re in the east! A large plate with multiple add-ons will only cost you $5 at most – you really can’t go wrong with either one.

Want to enjoy Nasi Lemak in a more atas, air-conditioned environment? We have TWO retro-style restaurants for you to visit! The Coconut Club and SINPOPO both exude a fun, classic, old-school charm (totally Instaworthy), and are perfect for your weekly #tbt post! A plate from The Coconut Club will set you back $12.80, and a sharing plate of fragrant Nasi Lemak for two at SINPOPO is $28, but we promise they’re both worth it. The fragrant rice is cooked to perfection and served alongside chunky sambal chili (YUM) and everything else that comes with a great plate of Nasi Lemak.

Find Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak at 221A/B, Boon Lay Place, 641221
Find Ponggol Nasi Lemak at 965 Upper Serangoon Rd, 534721
Find The Coconut Club at 6 Ann Siang Hill, 069787
Find SINPOPO at 458 Joo Chiat Road, 427671
Book a table at SINPOPO and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Photo credit: Roxy Laksa

Laksa

Singapore seems a little nuts for coconuts, and for good reason – rich, mildly spicy coconut broth is what makes laksa so incredibly indulgent and irresistible. I know Singaporeans are INTENSE about which bowl of laksa truly takes the cake, but these three are my personal favourites. Head down to 328 Katong Laksa, Roxy Laksa or Sungei Road Laksa (I can’t narrow down my list any further, I’m sorry) for a slurping good bowl of noodles that’ll only cost you $5 at most, even if you add on extra noodles, cockles, and other goodies.

Now, if you want to splurge, Beast & Butterflies at M Social Singapore has a fresh take on the classic dish. Featuring smooth, thick mee tai mak (or lao shu fen/rat noodles) instead of the standard fare, it will run you $16. Chatterbox serves up an extravagant bowl of Lobster Laksa, complete with thick vermicelli, quail eggs, fish cakes, dried beancurd, and a whole Boston Lobster simmered in spicy coconut gravy! No, that’s not a typo. A delight for sure, but also something that will set you back $36. Worth it? For the relaxing ambience and those hearty mouthfuls of sweet, succulent lobster flesh drenched in laksa gravy – definitely.

Find 328 Katong Laksa at 51 East Coast Road, 428770
Find Roxy Laksa at 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, #01-17, 139957
Find Sungei Road Laksa at Blk 27 Jalan Berseh #01-100, 200027
Find Beast & Butterflies at 90 Robertson Quay, Level 1, 238259
Find Chatterbox at 333 Orchard Rd, Level 5, Mandarin Orchard, 238867
Book a table at Chatterbox and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Photo credits: Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice

Chicken Rice

Okay, real talk, this is the ONE thing I look forward to having every time I head home from a long trip overseas. There’s honestly nothing more comforting than sitting in a noisy kopitiam and shoveling fragrant chicken stock (and fat) infused rice in my mouth – and one of my favourite places to get it is from Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice. You can’t go wrong with their smooth, tender pieces of chicken and flavourful grains of rice. I’m not a rice person, but trust me when I say that I’ll lick this entire plate clean.

Wanna have it somewhere fancier? Chatterbox strikes again with their award-winning Hainanese Chicken Rice – enjoy your tasty plate of goodness for $32 in a beautiful, relaxing 5-star hotel.

Find Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice at 101 Thomson Road, #01-08 United Square, 307591
Find Chatterbox at 333 Orchard Rd, Level 5, Mandarin Orchard, 238867
Book a table at Chatterbox and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Satay

Beautifully barbecued chunks of meat on a skewer? Sign me up! It was all my Swiss friend’s lovely family would talk about when discussing Singaporean food in the middle of winter when we were busy having raclette, and for good reason. It’s really a genius way to enjoy meat, especially when it’s dunked in a bowl of satay sauce full of peanutty-goodness. Get some amazingly affordable satay at Chai Ho Satay or Fang Yuan Satay, where a skewer will only set you back 50 cents AT MOST. Talk about a value for money!

Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill is the place to be for slightly more extravagant fare. The restaurant is absolutely beautiful and furnished in rich greens and polished oak, with handpicked vintage-looking decor that’ll bring you back to the good ol’ days. You can get three skewers of Angus Beef Satay for $18 that are tender and full of smokey goodness – pricey, but there’s a reason why people keep coming back for more!

Find Chai Ho Satay at #01-10, 448 Clementi Ave 3, 120448
Find Fang Yuan Satay at #01-344M, Blk 75 Lorong 5 Toa Payoh, 310075
Find Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill at 3B River Valley Road, #01-18, 179021
Book a table at Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Photo credits: Hill Street Fried Kway Teow

Char Kway Teow

Hill Street Fried Kway Teow has queues that stretch on for miles (ok, slight exaggeration) and you’ll understand why after an arduous 30 minute wait. Their $4 Char Kway Teow has incredible wok hei and is the most fragrant thing EVER (my mouth waters just thinking about it). It’s greasy and sinfully good, full of cockles and noodles doused in the sweet and salty dark soy sauce, and makes you feel like you need to run 5km just to unclog your arteries after inhaling a plate (or two, I won’t judge), just the way a good plate of Char Kway Teow should be. It’s affectionately called a heart attack on a plate for a reason!

Kopi Tiam Swissôtel The Stamford has a great plate of wok-fried goodness for $18 that’s chock full of fresh prawns, cockles, and fish cakes. The restaurant is also furnished to look like a real kopitiam right out of the 80’s (complete with a wooden signboard), except you’ll be enjoying your plate of greasy, fried goodness in air-conditioned comfort – a welcome respite from Singapore’s heat, that’s for sure!

Find Hill Street Fried Kway Teow at 16 Bedok S Rd, 460016
Find Kopi Tiam Swissôtel The Stamford at 2 Stamford Rd, 178882
Book a table at Kopi Tiam and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

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Photo credits: Choo Yut Shing, Flickr

Bubur Pulut Hitam

This dark mixture may seem a little daunting at first, but it’s one of Singapore’s most beloved desserts. Made up of black glutinous rice (which gives the dessert a satisfying, slightly chewy texture), creamy coconut milk, and gula meleka for a sweet, nutty fragrance, this sweet dish is sure to please your inner sweet tooth. Get your fix from Lit Lit Sin Cold & Hot Desserts, where dessert prices range between $1.20 to $2.30 – a value for money for sure!

Alternatively, you could head to National Kitchen by Violet Oon for a fancier rendition of the popular Nyonya dessert, this time topped with a generous dollop of coconut ice cream ($12). If this isn’t the best way to #treatyoself, I don’t know what is!

Find Lit Lit Sin Cold & Hot Desserts at 928 Yishun Central 1, #01-157, 760928
Find National Kitchen by Violet Oon at 1 St Andrews Road, #02-01, 178957
Book a table at National Kitchen by Violet Oon and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Cheap, Cheap and Good, Dessert, Guides, Pocket-friendly, Save, Splurge

Features Restaurants

Killer Sunsets & Delightful Libations @ Aqua Luna

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 30, 2017
No Comments on Killer Sunsets & Delightful Libations @ Aqua Luna

If you’ve read the previous feature on The Carvery, you’d know just how obsessed we are with the amazing views this boutique hotel offers. Aqua Luna is a gorgeous bar that’s perched right on the edge of the 7th floor of Park Hotel Alexandra, and is essentially encased in a glass dome of sorts. Think full-length windows that give you spectacular panoramic views of the Southern Ridges in all their glory.

Their infinity pool has a swim up bar, so you can order yourself a couple of tipples and watch the setting sun streak the sky with the pink blush of a Singapore Sling; it’s a welcome respite from concrete pavements and towering skyscrapers of downtown Singapore (actually only mere 15 minutes away).

The in-house bar team whipped up three delish cocktails for our drinking pleasure, and first up was their Sour Plum Mojito!

Fresh mint leaves and sour plum powder are first crushed together for a real kick of sour-plummy goodness.

Now for the stuff that makes a mojito great – rum! And topped off with ginger ale instead of the standard lime juice for a zesty kick.

The drink is then garnished with more sour plums, a fresh sprig of mint, and a lime wedge, and there we have it: a perfect, refreshing mojito. Perfect for Singapore’s summer heat, and waaaaay better than all the sour plum shots we used to down at Zouk in our youth (minus the nasty hangover!)

Here are two others that you absolutely CANNOT miss: the Hot Melons cocktail and Alexandra Sunset. The Hot Melons is made with sugar, spice and everything nice – the sweetness of fresh watermelon goes perfectly well with chili padi, Myers’ dark rum, and citrusy soursop sorbet… I know it sounds strange, but just try it – it’s a drink guaranteed to get the party started!

The Alexandra Sunset is my personal favourite. -The splash of flamed rosemary-infused Grand-Marnier is zesty and slightly smoky, and goes perfectly with fresh lime, lemon, and pineapple juices and cherry liqueur. The addition of both white and dark rum gives this tropical drink a pleasant, vanilla-caramel undertone. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy by twilight!

Is a bar experience truly complete without tasty bar grub? Aqua Luna has a different take on the standard truffle fries – they serve Truffle Polenta Fries instead! These parmesan-coated goodies are served alongside house-made truffle mayonnaise (made with real truffles, no less!) for an earthy, yet intensely satisfying flavour.

The Chorizo and Onion Flatbread pizza is crisp yet chewy and comes straight out of their wood-fired Beech oven. Their Mini Beef Burgers are also the perfect thing to munch on if you’re craving something more substantial – they’re served juicy and perfectly medium-rare on a toasted sesame bun. YUM.

Here’s some great news – Aqua Luna offers a Toasts To Indulgence party package for groups of 10 or more: unlimited house pours for 2.5 hours accompanied by a delicious medley of gourmet bar bites such as Tiger Prawns & Pesto Pizza, Smoked Wedges and Chicken Wings for $40++ per guest! So grab a couple of friends (or colleagues after a long work day) and indulge in great food, good booze, and a killer view.

Find it at 323 Alexandra Road, Level 7, Park Hotel Alexandra, 159972
Book a table at Aqua Luna and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Cocktails, Drinks, Feature, Good View, Sponsored

Features Restaurants

The Ultimate Sunday Indulgence with Raffles Grill’s Semi-Buffet Brunch

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 26, 2017
No Comments on The Ultimate Sunday Indulgence with Raffles Grill’s Semi-Buffet Brunch

Raffles Grill is the perfect place for an indulgent, boozy Sunday brunch. Step into the grand colonial-style building bursting with old-school charm and prepare to be wowed by their wide array of delectable delights. Pairing them with the finest champagne and having them served to you discreetly via their world-class tableside service makes them taste even better, trust us! In fact, we even got to stuff ourselves silly with everyone’s favourite radio DJ!

On the 21st of May, the spunky, spirited, multi-talented foodie Rosalyn Lee (more affectionately known as “Rozz”) hosted her very first #RozzEats session of the year in collaboration with Chope, where she chose five lucky winners (and their even luckier plus-ones) to join her for a Sunday brunch that was nothing short of amazing – her words, not ours! We happily joined their little party (lucky us!) and got to experience indulgence at its best at Raffles Grill.

First up was this delicious trio: Haddock Cream Tartlet & Salmon Roe, ‘Joselito’ Iberico Ham, and Alaskan Crab Tacos with Potato Chips, Avocado, and Coriander – a wonderful way to start off the meal! The prized Joselito Iberico Ham was smooth upon the first bite and is mellow in flavour with a hint of ‘umami’, unlike other cured meats that tend to lean towards the saltier side. You’d be doing yourself a grave disservice if you pass this one up.

Prefer getting your hands on some seafood first? The Seared Scallops are phenomenal. These fat and juicy scallops are seared gently for a soft char while remaining succulent on the inside, and the cubed ham provides a solid contrast in texture as well as flavour. Finally, the savoury sage jus and celery puree add a nice touch of herbal essence to round off the dish.

Truly a step up from everything else, the Pan Seared Foie Gras with Green Pea and Morel Mushroom and a Yellow Wine Emulsion is the ultimate indulgence on a plate! The Pan-Seared Foie Gras is buttery and rich, and nicely balanced by the fresh green peas and mellow Morel mushrooms. The creaminess of the goose liver is also enhanced by the smooth yellow wine emulsion for a beautiful finish.

We were also served a mouthwatering slice of Mediterranean Sea Bass that’s gently pan-seared, served atop a warm bed of lemon orzo, and drizzled with sauce vierge. Simple, straightforward, and oh so satisfying!

Next up we tucked into some delightfully fresh seafood and got to choose from THREE types of oysters: Irish, Tsarskaya, and Fine de Claire Oysters, all overflowing with fresh, briny goodness; and best savoured with a squirt of lemon and a drizzle of mignonette. Need more to satisfy your seafood cravings? Dig into juicy and succulent Tiger Prawns and Maine Lobster, flown in from Canada, boiled and served fresh at the station! For an upscale touch, go for the Scottish Smoked Salmon with Kristal Caviar and a side of Blinis. YUM.

Meat lovers rejoice, for there is also a Live Carving Station! Don’t miss the Omaha Beef Tenderloin, where beautifully tender cuts are served with a side of savoury Bordelaise sauce and mint jelly. Equally as stunning is the US Prime Côte de Bœuf that’s grilled to perfection (pro tip: try it with the shallot confit and potato mousseline), and the Welsh Lamb Saddle that does not disappoint with its mellow flavours and drizzle of thyme jus. Don’t forget the tart Ratatouille or Broccolini for some superb sides!

There’s also a wide range of cheese options with different flavours, textures, and smells – with offerings like Camembert, pungent blue cheese, the gentle St. Felicien, and the spicy Epoisses de Bourgogne it’ll be like you’ve stepped into a cheesy heaven! Sample any cheese you fancy, accompanied by crackers, grapes, dried fruit, and more.

To end the meal, an array of sweet delights are prepared that’ll tickle your fancy: Salted Caramel Mille-Feuille, Raspberry Rose Saint Honore, Cherry Pistachio Streusel, Chocolate Cremeux with Crunchy Praline, and our personal favourite, Bread and Butter Pudding with Vanilla Sauce. One of the signatures of Raffles Grill, the bread and butter pudding is a warm and sweet delight that will have you relishing every last mouthful! We left stuffed, satisfied, and vowing to return.

Photo credits: @heyrozz

Find it at 1 Beach Road, Raffles Hotel, 189673
Make a reservation at Raffles Grill and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Breakfast and Brunch, Brunch, Buffet, Feature, Seafood