On The Menu

Fresh Eats: 5 New Places You Don’t Want to Miss in March!

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date March 3, 2017
No Comments on Fresh Eats: 5 New Places You Don’t Want to Miss in March!

There’s something for everyone this month – rich decadent desserts, exciting fusion cuisines, cheesy indulgent burgers, smoky grilled yakitori, exotic new cocktails, a hidden bar, rustic barnyard settings, family-friendly spaces… Time to dive right in!

MEET Dining

Adding to the slew of restaurants that cater to the family-crowd in City Square is MEET Dining, a dining concept inspired by French and Japanese cuisines. There’s plenty of space for communal dining, and its sturdy industrial wood furnishings gives the restaurant a relaxed, homely vibe. The owners must have also taken the gripes of Singaporean parents and youngsters in mind – portions are large and perfect for filling the hungry bellies of growing children and large groups of teenagers without breaking the bank.

A portion of Crispy Baby Squid is priced at $10 and is both visually appealing and guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds – it’s covered in squid ink and deep-fried to perfection, served with garlic mayonnaise and zesty lemon slices. Get an entire Honey Spiced Chicken for $16, perfectly tender and juicy with a side of sauteed button mushrooms and buttery mashed potatoes – large enough for sharing with a friend or two (that is, if you don’t finish the entire thing yourself).

Find it at 180 Kitchener Road, #02-37/38, City Square Mall, Singapore 208539
Book a table at MEET Dining and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Lucky Bar

If Full of Luck Club is your down-to-Earth girl-next-door, then Lucky Bar would be her cheeky younger sister with a rebellious streak. Barely a month old, Lucky Bar has already begun making ripples (which will soon turn into waves, we’re sure) in Singapore’s competitive cocktail bar scene. Diners can access Lucky Bar through Full of Luck Club; those who prefer to give others the slip, however, can choose to go through the restaurant’s back entrance along a secluded alley. Pro tip: look out for the red lantern!

The stairs make way for a rooftop bar at the landing, furnished with Chinese ceramic stools and fairy lights overhead. Moving indoors, the ambience take on a more intimate setting. Head bartender Darren Lim whips up quirky tipples with even quirkier names: we’d recommend Dragon’s Breath & Baccarat, both of which are guaranteed to take your taste buds for a spin. Have a couple of classic crowd-pleasers like Duck Spring Rolls with Hoisin Sauce ($7.50) or Golden Sand Corn with Salted Egg Yolk ($6.80), but it’s highly recommended that you give their One Ton Nachos ($12) a shot – these come with crispy fried wonton skin, pulled pork, pineapple, lots of melted cheese and sour cream. YUM.

Find it at Full of Luck Club, 243 Holland Ave, Singapore 278977
Book a table at Lucky Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

[Closed] Half Pound Burger Bar & Grill

There’s honestly nothing better than tucking into a rich, hearty meal; whether it’s a greasy plate of char kway teow or a succulent, juicy burger – especially one that’s topped with truffled gouda, monterey jack, pan seared foie gras, candied bacon, pickled daikon and pineapple chips (talk about a mouthful)! Enter the Mother of All Burgers ($24) – it’s all that and more; their patty not only weighs a whopping half a pound (220g) but is made out of 100% imported Angus beef, no fillers whatsoever. If you feel like having something especially cheesy, give their Blue Cheese & Bacon Pasta ($18) a shot. It’s just as decadent and sinful as it sounds, and it comes with a sprinkling of tart dried cranberries to cut through the richness of the Blue Cheese.

The owner of this brightly coloured burger bar is on the road to fulfilling his lifelong dream when he set it up after being retrenched from his previous job; sink your teeth into the indulgence they have on offer and watch all your dreams come true as well.

Find it at 8 Purvis Street, #01-01, Singapore 188587
Book a table at Half Pound and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

MOJO

This tiny establishment located right smack in the CBD isn’t as simple as it seems. MOJO serves a wide variety of nutrient-packed, build-it-yourself protein bowls ($14) along with fresh agua frescas and antioxidant rich teas by day but their menu undergoes a complete transformation at night; the mouthwatering aroma of grilled meat permeates the air as the sun starts to set and you now have the option of various assortments of yakitori and sharing plates, all of which you can wash down with specialty Japanese craft beers and a plethora of cocktails with a Japanese twist.

Their Uni Soba ($38) is not to be missed – cold noodles topped with buttery uni (sea urchin), ebi (prawn), plump hotate (scallop) and ikura (salmon roe). Fancy something hot? Give their Pork Belly yakitori ($6) a whirl; it’s grilled to perfection and topped with nanami (leek). Truly magical.

Find it at 204 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068640
Book a table at MOJO and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Morsels at Dempsey

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a quaint little spot for a relaxed, romantic date or if you’d like to don floral maxi dresses on a Saturday morning with your girlfriends and pretend you’ve taken a trip out of the hustle and bustle of Singapore; Morsels at Dempsey is just the place for you. This homely, barnyard style restaurant focuses on combining the simplest ingredients and flavours in a novel way, and they’ve done so perfectly.

Their Charred House Poached Octopus ($26) is to die for – slices of perfectly grilled octopus sits on top of a bed of squid ink pearl rice risotto and is drizzled with a pale yellow salted egg sauce, and this is all topped with tobiko (flying fish roe) for an explosion of flavour and textures. Their Firecracker Duroc Pulled Pork ($24) is also a must-try; shell pasta cooked al-dente comes tossed in a tangy, spicy habanero cilantro pesto that meshes perfectly with chunks of caramelized pulled pork, topped with a dollop of sour cream.

This picturesque rustic space only accommodates 40, so be sure to make reservations before you go!

Find it at 25 Dempsey Road #01-04 Singapore 249670
Book a table at Morsels at Dempsey and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Dates, Fresh Eats, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Guides, New Restaurants, Newly-opened, Romantic

Features Restaurants

Meat Smith @ Cocotte Smokes Up a Storm in Little India

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date March 2, 2017
No Comments on Meat Smith @ Cocotte Smokes Up a Storm in Little India

The Unlisted Collection has done it again. With mainstays on Singapore’s culinary scene like Burnt Ends, Esquina and Pollen under its belt, the group has recently unveiled its innovative new 3 month-long pop-up: Meat Smith @ Cocotte. Our favourite part of local food is just how cosmopolitan this literal melting pot is, and true to that, Chef Andrew Baldus’ penchant for experimentation shines in this unique combination of Southern American-style BBQ and fiery Indian cuisine.

We were treated to his exclusive behind-the-scenes preparation of two star dishes, and it was a feast for the senses in every way!

Crab and Uni Biryani

The dish begins with a bowl full of juicy smoked crab meat. Chef Baldus flavours it with a killer trio: fresh pico de gallo made from tangy tomatoes and lime juice, intensely creamy saffron aioli, all offset by the playful textures of cucumber and herbs. He gives everything a toss and a good stir.

The flavours play subtly against each other in this dish. After mixing, the chef spoons everything into a separate bowl.

Next, we’re amping up the crunch with a liberal sprinkling of puffed rice.

This next topping is a touch of genius. A pair of quail eggs are gently nestled atop the mixture, but not just any ol’ quail eggs—each has a runny centre, and true to his Burnt Ends roots, the chef has cold-smoked them for a daring taste profile that’s just the right amount of charred.

Finally, we’re treated to not just one, but several dollops of fresh Japanese uni, chock full of that elusive umami element!

Beef Rib, Carrot, and Fenugreek

Time for the next dish: this base salad looks deceptively simple to prepare but is a complex medley of fenugreek, coriander, carrots, and onion slivers lighted coated in olive oil, lemon juice and a dash of salt and pepper.

Staying true to the “Meatsmith” moniker, Chef Baldus portions up grilled short rib into tender chunks of meat. Each beautifully marbled slab has its flavours sealed right in through a 10 hour-long smoking process.

The chef plates it alongside the refreshingly tart salad, and the combination has my mouth watering instantly.

Prime food porn moment of the night: Chef Baldus spoons the finishing touch over the beef. The luxurious drizzle of Bombay butter is infused with a mélange of anchovies, herbs, shallots, dijon, curry powder, and garam masala—a sinful indulgence.

The all-American chef prides himself on a love of smoke, fire, and meat, and each stylishly prepared dish definitely delivers on flavour. The coriander, mint, and curry powder garnish of the crab & uni biryani invoke familiar Indian spices, but with an adventurous twist. The succulent short rib doesn’t disappoint either, with fragrant melted butter sumptuously crowning every satisfying bite.

These two dishes definitely stole the show for the night. The former is just $25, while the latter serves 2 for $85. To keep things interesting, their kitchen plays host to guest chefs from Yardbird in Hong Kong, Rice Paper Scissors in Melbourne, etcetera, constantly inspiring and revitalising the menu. Every creative dish combines classic mainstays and inventive cooking techniques.

Like the original Meatsmith, this casual pop-up is all about the authentic, communal vibe, replete with a charcuterie room, smokers, and a fully-stocked craft beer selection. Time to start planning your next night out!

Find it at 2 Dickson Road, Singapore 209494
Book a table at Meat Smith @ Cocotte and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Feature, Smoked Meat, Steak

Lifestyle Others

Ode to the Century Egg

A bowl of cut-up pi dan. But unlike what the picture suggests, you don’t eat it on its own.

The century egg is most familiar to the Chinese as pi dan. Its congealed, oolong-brown translucence flashes an exquisite snowflake pattern.

“A mutated egg that is! That’s an alien hatch!” the uninitiated cry.
Why do they condemn something that they haven’t come to fathom?
Surprisingly, not many understand that all it takes to cure this is a try.
Or at least a level of understanding equivalent to the weight of an atom.

6814152174_b479f72ce8_o — A bowl of cut up pi dan. But unlike what the picture suggests, you don’t eat it on its own (Photo: Jo del Corro, Flickr)

Slice this mysterious elliptical jelly trove in half with a blade and see how the beautiful yolk is really made.
A pine green yolk, vaguely resembling a quartz cave.
A soft and occasionally molten core tempts you to use your fork to stave into the green goo.
Whose consistency resembles a roux?

Also…what is that revolting urine odour?
It can only mean the uninviting blend of ammonia and sulphur.
And soon we learn that there is an explanation for the stench:
the pi dan is essentially an egg preserved for some few weeks in a clench.
Made of clay, ash, salt, quicklime and rice hulls.

Weeks pass until the pi dan is done.
Ready for its big unveil, its first and only run.

SONY DSC — A cleaned century egg after emerging from being preserved (Photo: ayu oshimi, Flickr)

A nondescript elliptical shell with a scattershot of ash markings.
To the uninitiated, he is disappointed.
His expectations and the results are disjointed.
He cracks it open.
And finds…an egg?
It is an egg, but it’s unlike any other.
It seems to oozing a strange, yet inviting aura.
It holds a perfect shape and carries an awfully potent urine odour.

“How should we eat it?” is the question most people ask.
The ones who dare to try, and not the ones who say, “I’m good. I’ll pass.”
And the answer to that is simple. Congee.

Congee?
The simplicity is what makes it so special.
Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried this creation that is oh so celestial.

Of course, it’s not all who answer the call.
Its a matter of personal taste, that’s all.
Some find its flavour rather dull while some find it hard to accept.
Either way, there’s a solution instead of choosing to sidestep.
This is where pickled ginger comes in.
Silky tofu, a magnet for grins.

So good.

4502663479_a1c57466ef_o — Congee (rice porridge) is often served with pi dan, meat and some finely chopped green onions (Photo: Jo del Corro, Flickr)

Yearning for some century egg goodness after this post? Here are a couple of places to sate those pesky cravings!

Imperial Treasure
Famous for their silky smooth lean pork congee with century egg, fried dough sticks, ginger and spring onion.

Find it at 10 Bayfront Avenue, Marina Bay Sands, The Shoppes Atrium 2, L2-04, 018972
Click here for more info on Imperial Treasure.

Tim Ho Wan
Simple and uncomplicated, the best sort of comfort food there is. This bowl comes with lean pork and both salted and century egg.

Find it at 68 Orchard Rd, #01-29A, Plaza Singapura, Plaza Singapura, 238839
Click here for more info on Tim Ho Wan.

Crystal Jade Dining IN Restaurant
A version with tender pulled pork instead of the usual lean variety! Comes with century egg, fried dough fritters and spring onion.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-112 VivoCity, 098585
Book a table at Crystal Jade Dining IN Restaurant

PUTIEN
Century egg covered in a sweet & sour crust, topped with PUTIEN’s specialty sauce.

Find it at 2 Orchard Turn, #04-12, ION Orchard, 238801
Click here for more info on PUTIEN.

Koh Grill & Sushi Bar
Creamy century egg sauce on silky tofu, topped with tobiko and spring onions.

Find it at 435 Orchard Road, #04-21 Wisma Atria Shopping Centre, Wisma Atria, 238877
Click here for more info on Koh Grill & Sushi Bar.

Tags Century Egg, Chinese, Feature

Features Restaurants

7 Things about Botanico at The Garage that We Can’t Get Enough of

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date February 28, 2017
No Comments on 7 Things about Botanico at The Garage that We Can’t Get Enough of

A new gem has just opened its doors at Singapore Botanic Gardens, and it’s one that we can’t stop talking about! From impeccable eats to tantalising drinks, there’s more to Botanico at The Garage than meets the eye – here are 7 good reasons why this charming restaurant has stolen our hearts.

1. Dining in the heart of nature

Expect your dining experience at Botanico to be both calming and reviving. Located at the renowned Singapore Botanic Gardens, we couldn’t help but immediately unwind once we settled at our tables.

The main dining hall is simple but comforting, with large windows that allow ample light to brighten up the ambience during the day. Botanico’s hidden bar, also Singapore’s very first air-conditioned al-fresco bar, is located at the outdoor terrace that overlooks the foliage of the Gardens, making it the perfect spot to rendezvous with friends and bond over great drinks and even better conversations.

2. The culinary geniuses at Botanico

Behind every dish is an impeccable culinary team. Helmed by Chef Antonio Oviedo, who has cut his teeth at many Michelin-starred restaurants, the team at Botanico understands the importance of natural, seasonal ingredients drawn from the best-quality sources – and this is evident in each of Botanico’s exceptional dishes that draws balance between sweet and savoury.

With a heritage from both the North and South of Spain, and years of experience under his belt, Chef Antonio’s seasonality-driven cuisine is characterised by a casual yet refined approach. Mixologist Ruzaini Hashim also draws upon nature to create tasty tipples that are refreshing and pair well with the dishes from the kitchen.

3. A Lamb Tartare you won’t soon forget

The Lamb Tartare came highly recommended, and we can see why: instead of the traditional beef, lamb is the star of this dish and it’s given a French treatment that does wonders in enhancing its fresh, mellow flavours.

The mustard sorbet and pickled onions in this rendition give it a touch of brightness. For added creaminess, Chef Antonio introduced egg yolk cream instead of the traditional raw yolk. Nasturtiums, flown in from Spain, aren’t merely plating decorations; it imparts a hint of spiciness when eaten with the lamb.

With such an impressive starter, it was difficult not to let it set the bar for our expectations towards Chef Antonio’s other courses.

4. Freshen up with a tasty line-up of cocktails

As a feast is made for laughter, drinks make life merry. Botanico’s resident mixologist Ruzaini Hashim serves up a tantalising, botanical-inspired selection, such as the Garage Gin’Onic, Blackberry Lychee Mojito, and Thyme Lemonade.

Botanico’s Blackberry Lychee Mojito makes for a refreshing start. The blend of blackberry and lychee creates a balance between sweet and sour, easing us into the kick from the rum. On the other hand, the crowd-favourite Thyme Lemonade combines vodka with fresh lemonade for an inviting weather refresher, and a sprig of thyme that adds a mild flavour profile.

Who wouldn’t love a tasty tipple at a hidden garden bar located on a spacious outdoor terrace? We simply couldn’t resist!

5. Chef Antonio’s memorable Roasted Pigeon

This dish was introduced to us as Roasted Pigeon done two ways: the breast is pan-seared and the leg, confit.

While roasted pigeon sounds like a relatively simple dish, the nuances of textures and tastes are anything but. The pigeon is slightly crispy on the outside while maintaining a tender and moist inside. The parsnips are crisp and slightly sweet, while the Conte cheese and balsamic vinegar lend piquancy to the dish. The purple sorrel petals are fragrant and gives the dish a bright and citrusy undertone.

Pro-tip: Have it with the Thyme Lemonade for a match made in heaven.

6. Chargrilled Spanish Mackerel – a dish that comes alive

We were intrigued by how Chef Antonio is able to take this simple dish and give it a whole new dimension of flavours by introducing humble ingredients that work extremely well together.

Fresh Spanish Mackerel is chargrilled to perfection, imparting light smoky flavours and a firm bite. The sweetness from dehydrated seasonal fruits and the slight bitterness from the lightly stir-fried brussel sprouts create a balance that complements the umami from the mackerel. For a touch of indulgence, black garlic paste is used to round up the flavours and provide a robust finish.

7. End your meal with a bang with the Botanist

With such a charming name, it was difficult not to order this dessert right off the bat! Resembling the luscious foliage in which Botanico is situated, the Botanist is a dish that is both impressive in smell and flavour.

The fragrance of the makrut lime zest immediately drew us in. Each component of the dish offer a stark contrast of tastes against one another – the sharp lime jam with the refreshing cucumber sorbet, the luscious coconut cream with the tart granny smiths – but when they come together, it creates an explosion of flavours with every mouthful.

Refreshing and decadent, this dessert was the perfect way for us to round off the night.

Find it at 50 Cluny Park Road, The Garage, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore 257488
Book a table at Botanico at The Garage

Tags Cocktails, Drinks, Feature, Michelin, Spanish

Destination Hong Kong

7 Must-Try Tapas Bars in Hong Kong

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date February 24, 2017
No Comments on 7 Must-Try Tapas Bars in Hong Kong

Along with the bottles of wine imported to Hong Kong, Spanish specialties such as jamon Iberico and paella are quickly gaining a mass following. But what’s better than the traditional paella? Tapas.

Tapas are a traditional Spanish dining concept, and have roots tracing back to the early thirteenth – fourteenth century. The most popular legend involves the late King Alfonso X of Castille. After recovering from an illness where he could only eat small portions of food and wine, the King mandated for all inns across Spain to always serve a small snack, paired with wine. This storied history has made tapas infamous, particularly in Asia. A dozen or so new tapas bars have quickly cropped up across Hong Kong, and here are some to look out for next time you’re craving some Spanish cuisine.

Fofo by el Willy

Fofo by El Willy has been the talk of the town ever since it opened in 2010. Wondering who this El Willy character is? Fofo is the second restaurant by Willy Trullas Moreno (aka ‘el Willy’), an infamous chef hailing from Barcelona. Sadly, Willy no longer helms his Hong Kong jaunt, but another Barcelonian chef by the name of Alex Fargas takes pride in producing Chef Willy’s contemporary Spanish tapas.

Our favourites on their tapas menu include the ‘Atun’ Marinated Tuna, Smoked Sardine, Salmorejo Tomato Salad and the Explosive Smoked Salmon Air Bag (buckle up for a flavour blast!). The latter is a delicious ‘melt-in-your mouth’ combo that provides incredible flavour as the pastry, topped with a chunk of salmon, bursts in the mouth.

Dishes We Love: Explosive Smoked Salmon Air Bag, ‘Atun’ Marinated Tuna, Smoked Sardine

Find it at M99, 2-8 Wellington St., Central
Book a table at Fofo by el Willy and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Supergiant Tapas & Cocktail Bar

Sure, Supergiant doesn’t sound Spanish at all. In fact, it kind of sounds like a grocery store. But its moniker doesn’t forebode inauthentic Spanish eats. Quite the opposite! Nestled in the third floor of a stunningly beautiful boutique hotel, Supergiant Tapas is led by famed Chef Guillermo Delvault, hailing from Argentina. Trained in Barcelona, Delvault has designed a wonderfully Spanish-influenced menu, but with a Chinese twist.

Favourites on their menu include Saturn’s Rings (crunchy, succulent strips of calamari dipped in flour, and fried to golden perfection) and Grilled Chorizo Oreado Sausage – two traditional fresh chorizo sausages, infused with paprika, served with a crusty baguette. End the meal with Supergiant’s infamous Traditional Churro, paired with a sumptuous, rich chocolatey dip and vanilla ice cream. Talk about Supergiant taste!

Dishes We Love: Hokkaido Scallop, Saturn’s Rings, Crispy Suckling Pig, Grilled Chorizo Sausage

Find it at 3/F, Mira Moon Hotel, 388 Jaffe Rd., Causeway Bay
Book a table at Supergiant Tapas & Cocktail Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Timon Seafood Tapas

Located on the other side of Ship Street past a bunch of other buzzy restaurants such as Akrame and 22 Ships, Timon Seafood Tapas is an excellent place for fans of traditional tapas paired with house wines. Our favourites at Timon include the Salted Anchovy with Quince Jam on Toast and the Octopus with Sweet Potato Foam & Paprika. The former is a piece of salted fish goodness, whilst the latter couples the spicy kick of paprika with the tanginess of Octopus.

Dishes We Love: Stuffed Baby Squid with Romesco Sauce, Deep Fried Calamari, Slow-Cooked Chorizos

Find it at 33 Sheep St., Wan Chai
Book a table at Timon Seafood Tapas and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

One Minden Tapas Kitchen

We love the delectable tapas on offer at One Minden, including crowd-pleasers such as Crispy Pig Ears and Handcut 36-month Belloto Ham. What’s so special about One Minden’s Wan Chai outpost is its mix of seating options – downstairs (counter-heavy), upstairs (table-heavy) – which are reminiscent of those cool tapas shops off the coast of Spain. In addition to the aforementioned dishes, be sure to try out the Grilled Iberico Pork Shoulder Loin: rare, thinly sliced pieces of tepid meat, paired with chimichurri sauce. What a bright and refreshing denouement to your meal!

Dishes We Love: 36-month Belloto Ham, Iberico Pork Shoulder, Crispy Pig Ears

Savvy Diner Tip: Be sure to head to One Minden every Tuesday for 2-For-1 Mains. Also, get a complimentary glass of house wine per guest on every purchase of an All You Can Eat Tapas Brunch!

Find it at G/F, 1 Minden Ave., Tsim Sha Tsui
Book a table at One Minden Tapas Kitchen and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Catalunya

Who could forget the delicious bites found at Spanish mainstay, Catalunya? One of Hong Kong’s most talked about restaurants ever since its opening, Catalunya has not seen its popularity abade. No, not all. In fact, the Tapas Lunch menu has grown incredibly popular amongst the lunch crowd; priced at a reasonable $188 and $200, for two and three tapas respectively, it’s hard to beat! On the Hot Menu, make sure to choose the Hokkaido Scallops with Coconut – coconut-celery vichyssoise mixed with curry oil sliced almond and perfectly cooked with Hokkaido scallops. It’s an irresistible combination of flavours! On the Cold Tapas Menu, make sure to try out the Tuna Tataki, which features pieces of succulent, just-caught Atlantic tuna paired with salpicon and raspberries. The other ‘can’t miss’ menu item is the Cod Fish “Esqueixada” – featuring flaky pieces of just-cooked fish, onions, olive oil and hard-boiled eggs.

Dishes We Love: Catlaunya Tomato Tartare, Gazpacho, Crystal Bread

Find it at Guardian House, G/F., 32 Oi Kwan Rd. Wan Chai
Book a table at Catalunya and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Iberico & Co.

Iberico & Co, a multi-award winning restaurant brings the popular Mediterranean tastes of the Iberian coast to Hong Kong. Be sure to try out the signature paella – a slow-cooked daily paella cooked in a massive 50kg cast iron pan alongside a traditional rotisserie oven packed with spicy Portuguese peri peri roast chickens. Do make sure to wash down your meal with jugs of traditional or fruit Sangria. We love the Bruschetta with Crushed Vine Tomato, Serrano & Basil (juicy pieces of roasted vineyard tomato, paired alongside crushed pieces of oven-baked Bruschetta) and the Broccoli with Garlic, Goats Cheese & Almonds (just-plucked pieces of broccoli paired with delicious pieces of fresh cheese and crunchy almonds)

Dishes We Love: Broccoli with Garlic, Goats Cheese & Almonds, Bruschetta with Crushed Vine Tomato, Serrano & Basil, Bruschetta with Prawns & Garlic Aioli

Find it at 18 Shelley St., Central
Click here for more info on Iberico & Co

Chico Chica

An up-and-coming tapas bar located in hip Sai Ying Pun, Chico Chica is one of our favourite places to try out tapas outside the Iberian coast. Crowd pleasers include Tomato Tempura – cherry tomato paired with wasabi and mozzarella, and Pluma Hamburger – a juicy hamburger patty with Hoisin sauce on the side. Sure, the tapas are on the simple side, but we love their simple, fresh creations.

Dishes We Love: Tomato Tempura, Pluma Hamburger, Octopus Galicia

Find it at 70 Third St., Sai Ying Pun
Click here for more info on Chico Chica

Tags Bars, Guides, Lunch

Destination Singapore

Where to Eat in the East Coast

Post author By Chope
Post date February 21, 2017
No Comments on Where to Eat in the East Coast

Singapore may be a tiny city-state with not much land to speak of, but that hasn’t stopped locals from engaging in endless debates on where the best food is to be found on the island – West Coast or East Coast?

The most diplomatic answer is, of course, that we Singaporeans are blessed with mouthwatering food no matter which side of the divide you happen to be on. To prove it, we’ve brought you some of the best eats in the East Coast, from Katong to Joo Chiat and beyond.

Katong Kitchen

Out with a group of friends but no one can decide on where to eat? Katong Kitchen’s wide variety of Asian and Western cuisine will put an end to that! Familiar favourites are given an upscale twist, such as the Beef Hor Fun with Grass-Fed Ribeye and Village Lobster Laksa made with with Boston lobster, cockles and a quail egg in spicy coconut broth. While it’s difficult to say no to local food, sometimes a thick, juicy Grilled Lamb T-Bone Shortloin with truffle fries, sweet young carrots and asparagus hits the spot.

Dishes We Love: Village Lobster Laksa, Beef Hor Fun, Pan-Fried Norwegian Salmon, Grilled Lamb T-Bone, Nonya Ngo Hiang, Deep Sea King Prawn Hokkien Mee

Find it at 25 Marine Parade Road, Village Hotel Katong Level 4, Singapore 449536
Book a table at Katong Kitchen and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Quentin’s Eurasian Restaurant

Blending Portuguese cooking with Indian and Malaysian dishes, Quentin’s churns out tasty hits like Porku Tambreyno, pork sambal with fried pork slices, dried chili, candlenuts and lime juice, and Cambarang Curry Nanas which is a sweet and sour curry made with a unique combination of pineapple and prawns. Try the Curry Debal if you dare – a super-hot curry named after the devil himself, made with bacon bones, chicken cocktails, potatoes, onion, ginger, cabbage and cucumber and A LOT of chili.

Dishes We Love: Porku Tambreyno, Curry Debal, Cambarang Curry Nanas, Roasted Porku, Retu Tinta Choka

Find it at 139 Ceylon Road, Eurasian Community House, Singapore 429744
Book a table at Quentin’s Eurasian Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Bird Bird

Despite its moniker, no one can deny that this cheekily-named eatery perfectly sums up the casual vibe and sinfully indulgent chicken-based offerings. Their crispy, juicy buttermilk fried chicken is not to be missed, so order a Birdhouse Special and try it with cornbread waffle, coleslaw and chunky mash and thick gravy (what diet?). Treat yourself to a side of Truffle Cheese Curly Fries made with black truffle mayo and grana padano cheese to round off your meal – potatoes are vegetables aren’t they?

Dishes We Love: Birdhouse Special, Truffle Cheese Curly Fries, Yuzu Crab Pate, Steak and Eggs, Durian Softie Pie

Find it at 97 Frankel Avenue, Singapore 458222
Book a table at Bird Bird and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Al Forno Italian Restaurant

Craving authentic Italian fare but can’t afford a ticket to have the real deal in Italy? Fret not – at Al Forno, the best of Italian cuisine is now available for those living in the East side. Tuck into the Spaghetti Cartoccio and savour succulent seafood morsels and olives in zesty tomato sauce ladled over freshly made spaghetti. To experience the best of Naples, share with a classic Pizza Bufala with a friend: handmade pizza with tomato sauce, buffalo cheese and fresh basil are prepared in a traditional wood fire oven for best results.

Dishes We Love: Pizza Bufala, Spaghetti Cartoccio, Gnocchi Al Formaggi, Risotto Al Funghi, Pizza Al Formaggi, Capricciosa

Find it at 400 East Coast Road, Le Peranakan Hotel, Singapore 428996
Book a table at Al Forno Italian Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Rabbit Carrot Gun

You don’t have to travel far to feel like you’re on holiday: at Rabbit Carrot Gun, they offer boutique accommodation along with delicious Western grub for the perfect staycation package. Teaming up with Chef Andy Hearnden, new creations such as as the Koo Koo Ka Choo will surely indulge guests – potato hash is given a lavish blanket of mushroom fricassee and Gruyere cheese, topped with poached eggs, truffle and herb. The Open Faced Steak Sandwich maintains as a crowd-favourite – sirloin steak is cooked to a medium rare perfection, drizzled with veal jus and placed atop freshly toasted sourdough. For a refreshing touch, the sandwich is served with pickled beet, carrot, and smoked onion.

Dishes We Love: Koo Koo Ka Choo, Avocado Smash, Wild Organic Porridge, Rabbits Greens, Open Faced Steak Sandwich

Find it at 47–49 East Coast Road, Singapore 428768
Click here for more info on Rabbit Carrot Gun.

Zaffron Kitchen

Competition for Indian food in Singapore is fierce but Zaffron Kitchen stole our hearts with its simple and scrumptious menu. After all, who doesn’t love a crispy, spicy Samosa? The Butter Chicken Curry is another hot favourite; tender chicken pieces are simmered in a spicy, zesty tomato sauce with creamy yoghurt and earthy cashew nuts for richer and more complex flavours. Don’t forget to order a side of pillowy Naan to mop up every last drop of that delicious gravy at the end of the meal.

Dishes We Love: Samosa, Butter Chicken, Tandoori Malai Chicken Tikka, Tandoori Gobi, Chicken Saag, Garlic Naan

Find it at 135-137 East Coast Road, Singapore 428820
Book a table at Zaffron Kitchen and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Sinpopo

Sinpopo is set to impress with its blast-from-the-past vintage décor and traditional local dishes with modern touches. A meal here makes you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time to 1960s Katong! Nasi Lemak is an evergreen classic but we bet your grandparents didn’t have Sinpopo’s Sliced Wagyu Horfun back in the day! This dish sees traditional beef horfun with succulent wagyu beef slices on a bed of horfun noodles and savoury broth. Since Sinpopo is the brainchild of those clever minds behind Awfully Chocolate, you can’t miss the decadent desserts – a rich, chocolatey Horlicks and Maltesers milkshake is the best way to beat the heat!

Dishes We Love: Sinpopo Sliced Wagu Horfun, Ma Ling Luncheon Crisps, Har Jeong Kai Burger, Chilled Pandan Soufflé, Horlicks & Maltesers Shake, Milo Dinosaur Shake

Find it at 458 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427671
Book a table at Sinpopo and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Carvers and Co.

The perfect joint for fellow carnivores, Carvers and Co. specialises in roast meat, fried meat, and well, all sort of meat! A breakfast of Pulled Pork and Waffle is not a familiar combination to locals, but who could resist when you’re presented with tender sous vide pulled pork which was marinated overnight, served on top of crispy waffles with Sriracha sauce and sunny side up eggs? Likewise, only the strong-willed can refuse the Bombass Beer Beef Short Ribs: thick beef short ribs marinated in Trappist dark ale and slow cooked for 24 hours, served together with its own rich beer flavoured gravy and creamy mash. So. Much. Yes!

Dishes We Love: Pulled Pork Waffle, Bombass Beer Beef Short Ribs, Gammon Ham and Cheese Muffin, Bone-In Prime Rib, Red Wine Pulled Pork Pasta

Find it at 43 East Coast Road, Singapore 428764
Click here for more info on Carvers and Co.

Tags Breakfast, Breakfast and Brunch, Brunch, East Coast, Guides

Lifestyle

14 Worst Things to Happen on a Date

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date February 15, 2017
1 Comment on 14 Worst Things to Happen on a Date

Ahh, Valentine’s Day – that one day of the year where couples go all out to impress one another in a battle of public declaration of love. However, not everyone’s experience is the fairytale it’s cut out to be!

We’ve rounded up some of the worst things that have happened on dates; although the names have been changed for privacy, these are #TrueStories that have happened to real people!

Here are our top 14:

1. Taking the easy way out (OUCH!)

“I met up with a guy for a date. After we sat down, he said he’d needed to withdraw cash. He left and never came back after that.” – Nikayla

2. Too soon, too soon.

“I was on a date with this amazing guy and it was going really well. Then he asked me to take off my shoes while we were sitting along the Singapore river. I thought maybe he wanted us to dip our toes in the water. He checked out my toes and said he wanted to suck on them – he had a foot fetish.” – Durga

3. This disaster.

“When you get to know a girl on the first date and she hits all of your checklist before she turns to you and says ‘What if I tell you the truth about religion, and how my faith is true and yours is fake!'” – Rajesh

4. That awkward moment when…

“You offer to pay the bill and the guy politely accepts. After you are done paying he accidentally says ‘thanks mum.'” – Carol

5. The PETA Crusader

“When you go out with the most perfect guy only to find out he will not take you out anymore unless you become a vegetarian – because ‘Meat is murder’.” – Lorraine

6. When it gets so boring that even toilets are more interesting

“I ended up talking about toilets with one guy for 45 minutes on our first and last date.” – Marissa

7. The moment you know you better drop him like he’s hot (because he isn’t)

“One time we were out and he (ex-boyfriend) bumped into his ex. He spent the rest of the date on his phone texting her and catching up.” – Shalini

8. When you can’t help but feel bad for the guy…

“Dining at an alfresco restaurant and a bird shat in his food.” – Shantini

9. We can’t believe this dude, either.

“He showed up 40 mins late, ordered a main, drink and dessert. I only had a soup. He asked to go Dutch and I’d agreed so as to not make a scene. Before leaving he asked me for 20 bucks for his cab ride here because ‘I would have actually taken a train to meet you but because you were already here, I had to cab.'” – Charlene

10. Let’s not even go there.

“Our date was going smoothly at first, but then he started insisting that we head to this hotel nearby because his MUM had a room there.” – Nikki

11. We don’t want no scrub.

“He made such a big deal out of bringing me to this extremely posh restaurant. When it was time to pay, he *conveniently* realized he forgot to bring his wallet and I ended up having to pay for everything (which were all extremely expensive dishes he insisted on ordering).” – Jo

12. How about YOU eat some makeup?

“The first thing he said to me on our first (and last) date: You need more makeup.” – Gabrielle

13. Hold your horses, honey.

“Had a first date with a guy, and by the end of the night he asked me if I wanted to go home with him… to meet his parents and get their approval for marriage.” – Felicia

14. Something smells fishy about this date.

“This girl shared a fun fact on our first date about how farts can fight dementia. She then asked if she could smell mine.” – K

Comment on our Facebook post with your worst date experience with the hashtag #SAVEMECHOPE for a chance to win a free meal for 2!

*T&Cs Apply

Tags Dates, Romantic, Single Awareness Day, V Day, Valentines' Day

Destination Hong Kong

6 Asian Restaurants, with a Modern Twist!

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date February 14, 2017
No Comments on 6 Asian Restaurants, with a Modern Twist!

Tired of Yardbird, but want a quick fix of classic Asian cuisine with a modern take? Worry not! Here’s a list of six up-and-coming restaurants that we love, popping up all over town. From a modern take on traditional Vietnamese cuisine to a contemporary twist on Taiwanese classics, we have you covered!

Mrs. Pound

Nestled in an old stamp shop, Mrs. Pound is one of the coolest restaurants around! It’s easy to walk right past the green / white storefront – unless you have a particular interest in stamps. (We’re not judging.) What sets Mrs. Pound apart however, is its playful take on Asian street food. One dish worth trying out is the Sriracha Street Corn – a chunk of juicy grilled corn, dressed up with pecorino cheese, and rubbed up with spicy sriracha spicy mayo. So delicious! Don’t also forget Mrs. Pound’s signature Rendang Bao, an incredible melt-in-the-mouth bao plumped up with smoldering char siu sauce.

Dishes We Love: Sriracha Street Corn, Rendang Bao, Avocado Fries

Find it at G/F, 6 Pound Lane, Sheung Wan
Click here for more info on Mrs. Pound

Dragon Noodles Academy

A perennial Chope favourite, Dragon Noodles Academy offers the best of fun, quality contemporary-classic Canto classics, but with a modern twist. Most of the cool dishes worth trying out are on their dinner menu, including Peking Duck, Fried Rice and Whole Fish, which is braised in several mouthwatering ways. The afternoon tea menu also has a few dishes to nosh on – Sous Vide Chiz Rolls, pseudo-sushi rolls made with boneless chicken, and Berry Winter Melon, resembling none other than mini melons! One final ‘don’t miss’ item – the 12-hour Sous Vide US Bone-in Short Ribs. The slices of beef are incredibly tender, juicy and are packed full of flavour!

Savvy Saver Tip: Dragon Noodles’ lunch menu offers great value, with mains starting at only $79

Dishes We Love: Homemade Duck Foie Gras, Classic Lobster Bisque, Rib-eye Steak

Find it at Shop No. G04, G/F, Man Yee Arcade, Man Yee Building, No. 68 Des Voeux Road, Central
Book a table at Dragon Noodles Academy and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Chom Chom

Chom Chom brings Vietnam’s lively Bia Hoi tradition of sipping fresh beer on busy street corners to Hong Kong. With a menu inspired by classic Hanoi street fare, paired with regional Vietnamese beers, it’s one of the coolest takes on traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a modern setting.

Head directly to their Large Plates menu, and be sure to try out Shaking Beef (juicy beef tenderloin, paired with rocket and tomato salad) as well as their low-carb Short Rib Lettuce Wraps. The wraps are full of juicy braised short ribs, and have a kick thanks to a mix of spring onion and diced red chili peppers.

Dishes We Love: Shaking Beef, Short Rib Lettuce Wraps, Bun Cha Pork Skewer

Find it at G/F Block A, No. 58 – 60, Peel St., Central
Click here for more info on Chom Chom

4FUN by Check-In Taipei

Taiwanese puh-leez! We love Check-In Taipei and the street food memories it evokes every time we visit. Unlike traditional Taiwanese food, which isn’t the most photogenic, Check-In Taipei’s dishes are truly Instagram-worthy, and delicious at the same time. What a great combo!

We love their crispy Chicken & Waffles sliders, which are seasoned with chunks of crunchy garlic, tangy ginger and five-spice powder, as well as C.I.T. Noodles, based off of a traditional Taiwanese pork rice dish. Truly a fun, new twist on a Taiwanese classic!

Dishes We Love: Ping Pong, Chicken & Waffles, Flaming Beef Shortrib

Find it at G/F, 27 Hollywood Rd., Central
Book a table at 4FUN by Check-In Taipei and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Little Bao

Little Bao combines the best of sharing – food and cultures. Influenced by international tastes of its hometown Hong Kong, Little Bao serves up an original take on classic comfort foods that we’ve all grown to love.

Much of Little Bao’s menus consist of small plates that encourage sharing, along with some seasonal specials. Dishes that we currently obsess over include their four baos on tap: Pork Belly Bao, Chicken Bao, Fish Tempura Bao and Mushroom Bao. Aside from their signature baos, be sure to try on their sumptuous sides – Orange Chicken, Eggplant & Shiso Pork Tempura. The former is coated with sweet and salty batter, and has an orangey, zesty kick to it. The latter, well, it’s hella tasty! That’s all we can say.

Be prepared for an authentic (and fun) cross-cultural eating experience for all!

Dishes We Love: Fish Tempura Bao, Pickled Mushroom Salad, Orange Chicken

Find it at 66 Staunton St., SoHo
Click here for more info on Little Bao

YUM CHA

Who can forget the decadent Instagram-able dishes at YUM CHA? The dishes are a perfect take on traditional Chinese fare – with much more sophisticated flavours to boot. We love their adorable Hot Custard Bun (oozy buns filled to the top, with cute lil’ eyeballs). Some of their main dishes are also Instagram-worthy. Their Egg White and Seafood Fried Rice and the Organic Kale with Garlic are sure not to miss as well. Be sure to head over to YUM CHA, for a great, modern take on traditional Chinese dishes!

Dishes We Love: Piggy BBQ Bun, Hot Custard Bun, Egg White and Seafood Fried Rice

Find it at Shop 1 – 2, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Rd., Central
Book a table at YUM CHA and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Chinese, Guides, Taiwanese, Vietnamese

Destination Save/Splurge Singapore

Romantic Dinners that Won’t Break the Bank

Post author By Chope
Post date February 10, 2017
No Comments on Romantic Dinners that Won’t Break the Bank

There’s never a shortage of restaurants in Singapore for a romantic night out, but we get it – sometimes we’re just in need of a restaurant that satisfies both our tummies and our wallets! Whether it’s yummy local delights or delectable cuisines of the world, these restaurants will surely give you a bang for your buck.

Little House of Dreams

Tucked away on Dempsey Hill, Little House of Dreams recently made the move from a dessert café to a full-fledged bistro. But fret not, the main dishes here more than hold their own too. Take your pick of everything from their Watercress and Mango Salad ($15.90) to a luscious Chilli Crab Bun ($19.90). Of course, the impeccable desserts are not to be missed, with the elegant crafting reflecting the sweetly decorated, whimsical space. Every inch of the café is decked out in various pastel shades, along with cozy booth seating that make for a picture-perfect romantic restaurant—a house of dreams indeed!

Dishes We Love: Watercress and Mango Salad, Chilli Crab Bun, Lemongrass Chicken Leg with Salad

Find it at Block 8 Dempsey Road, #01-14, Singapore 247696
Book a table at Little House of Dreams and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Food For Thought (National Museum Singapore)

Food For Thought is housed in the National Museum of Singapore, which boasts a rich heritage that is guaranteed to satisfy history buffs. The space is furnished with marble table tops, wall mosaics, and wooden chairs to provide a throwback to the old school kopitiams that Singaporeans are familiar with. Besides their scrumptious all-day brunch (don’t miss the Dark Chocolate and Mixed Berries Pancakes at $14!), the eatery serves up wonderfully inventive plates like the Grilled Swordfish Quinoa ($19) and Red Rice Wine Chicken Leg Mee Sua ($17). The mouthwatering dishes are sure to bring a gourmet touch to any romantic dinner, at wallet-friendly prices. And what better than a stroll around the museum to cap off a satisfying meal?

Dishes We Love: Dark Chocolate and Mixed Berries Pancakes, Grilled Swordfish Quinoa, Red Rice Wine Chicken Leg Mee Sua

Find it at 93 Stamford Road, #01-04/05 National Museum, Singapore 178897
Book a table at Food For Thought (National Museum Singapore) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Nassim Hill Bakery

Located in a post office along Tanglin Road, Nassim Hill is a bakery, bistro, and bar all rolled into one irresistible package. The charming restaurant dishes out comfort food in a space reminiscent of an European tavern, with funky stained glass windows and an undeniably relaxing vibe. Its expansive menu includes gourmet offerings like Baked Bone Marrow ($12), Pear Cheddar Crumble ($11), plus we couldn’t get enough of the ever-popular Hot Reuben ($18) —made with their signature Guinness bread. It’s a buzzing space ideal for long conversations over a romantic dinner, while the smell of freshly-baked bread wafts over you every once in a while. Don’t forget to pick something up from the bakery to go!

Dishes We Love: Baked Bone Marrow, Pear Cheddar Crumble, Hot Reuben, Steak and Eggs

Find it at 56 Tanglin Road, Tanglin Post Office #01-03, Singapore 247964
Click here for more info on Nassim Hill Bakery.

Ash & Elm

Got a gourmand to please? Ash & Elm, located at the InterContinental Singapore, may just be the romantic restaurant to answer all your needs. This stunning space adopts a culinary theatre concept, boasting a charcoal-grill kitchen, a charcuterie and cheese room, and a wood-fired oven. Get the Ash & Elm Platter ($29/$42) to share, then sample any of their magnificent seafood dishes, which include Tasmanian Salmon Fillet a la Plancha ($46) served in an innovative grapefruit hollandaise sauce. The Pumpkin & Bacon Flatbread ($16) is another solid option, before you finish off with an endless variety of decadent desserts like the Chocolate Hazelnut Pizza ($24).

Dishes We Love: Ash & Elm Platter, Tasmanian Salmon Fillet a la Plancha, Pumpkin & Bacon Flatbread, Chocolate Hazelnut Pizza, Beef Tasting Platter

Find it at 80 Middle Road, Level 1 InterContinental Singapore, Singapore 188966
Book a table at Ash & Elm and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Laffio

Laffio occupies a casual space on Beach Road, with a chalkboard listing ever-rotating daily specials and beers. Despite being effortlessly laid-back, Laffio definitely doesn’t scrimp on the staples. Look forward to noshing on reliable comfort food like Dry Rub Steak ($29) and a selection of delectable pastas—a robust meal without the fuss. Pick from their inventive assortment of light bites to share, or split the fan favourite Buttermilk Waffles ($13) for a sweet ending to your romantic dinner!

Dishes We Love: Dry Rub Steak, Pappardelle with Bone Marrow & Octopus, Buttermilk Waffles, F’n’C Laffio Style

Find it at 337 Beach Road, Singapore 199565
Book at table at Laffio and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Riders Café

Riders Café sits amidst the lush greenery at the former Bukit Timah Saddle Club’s clubhouse, offering a laid-back atmosphere for the best kind of romantic night out! We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the Riders Burger ($18) – a 200g Angus Beef patty, done to perfection and topped with smoky cheddar, branston pickle, homemade sauce, and fries (just thinking about it makes us hungry!). Those with a penchant for all things sweet can go for their Salted Caramel Brioche ($12), where a toothsome serving of butterscotch and vanilla ice cream is topped with crumbled honeycomb – it doesn’t get any sweeter than this!

Dishes We Love: Riders Burger, Salted Caramel Brioche, Death by Chocolate Cake

Find it at 51 Fairways Drive, Singapore 286965
Book a table at Riders Café and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

L’Entrecôte Wine Bar

No one does romance better than the French; with delectable dishes that ring true to the French way of cooking and a setting as picturesque as the one at L’Entrecote, it makes for a romantic experience to remember. Go for The Classic Raclette ($29-$37), a plate of cheesy heaven blanketing fork-tender baby potatoes and tantalising gherkins. Take the romance to a whole new level by sharing the Fondue, where you have a choice of Bourguignonne & Vigneronne ($59.90) – tender beef, dipped in either spiced red wine sauce for a tasty, mulled wine flavour or boiling oil to retain the robust flavour of the beef.

Dishes We Love: The Classic Raclette, Bourguignonne & Vigneronne Fondue, Tartiflette

Find it at 37 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089615
Book a table at L’Entrecôte Wine Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Cafe, Coffee, Dates, Dinner, Guides, Romantic, Save

Destination Hong Kong Save/Splurge

9 Best Affordable French Restaurants in Hong Kong

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date February 10, 2017
No Comments on 9 Best Affordable French Restaurants in Hong Kong

Who hasn’t had that craving for a delicious seafood Bouillabaisse or a succulent Coq au Vin?

Hong Kong has some delicieux French-dining establishments, but sometimes we just don’t want to break the bank just for the opportunity to dine on crisp, white tablecloths, imbibe four to five-figure bottles of wine and savour French culinary creations. As the French say, ‘Ce n’était pas un problème!’ We have you covered with our guide to the best affordable French restaurants around Hong Kong.

Bon appétit!

Bistro du Vin

Nestled in hip and quaint Kennedy Town, Bistro du Vin has been a convivial addition to the up-and-coming neighborhood. We love Bistro du Vin’s rustic French décor, replete with bare wooden furniture, art-deco-inspired tiled flooring and diffused lighting. What’s more, its intimate setting (around 20 tables), makes it just private enough to for a romantic dinner for two or a private gathering for four.

The starters and mains at Bistro du Vin are reminiscent of French, homey classics. Must-try Starters include Escargots in Shell, Garlic Herb Butter, which include juicy pieces of succulent escargot sitting atop a fatty, melting piece of bone marrow, and Cheesy Onion Soup – an oozy, creamy soup infused with sage butter. Our favourites mains include their signature Coq au Vin – garlic and Burgundy wine-infused goodness! All in all, Bistro du Vin is the place for delicious French classics reminiscent of the best of France. Even better? You can dine there for less than the cost of a night of boozing it up in TST!

Dishes We Love: Assiette of Hokkaido Sausages, Escargots in Shell, Crispy Suckling Pig Confit
Price points: Starters [$90 – $180], Mains [$200 – $260]

Find it at Shope 1D, Davis St., Kennedy Town
Book a table at Bistro du Vin

Eiffel Bistro

Located in peaceful Taikoo Shing, Eiffel Bistro is quickly positioning itself as the place for either an upscale business lunch or a more chill family soirée. We love Eiffel’s Parisian-style bistro, open kitchen, and wide, people-watching windows and artwork, inspired by the iconic Eiffel tower.

Eiffel’s menu is a bit more diverse than other classic French bistros on our list. Inclusive of additions such as fishes, meats and sharing platters, Eiffel Bistro’s a la carte offerings are definitely fit for anyone’s taste. We love Eiffel’s Homemade Duck Foie Gras, which include two generous pieces of perfectly cooked liver coupled with seasonal chutney and crispy toast. Eiffel’s Classic Lobster Bisque – creamy and buttery goodness with massive chunks of succulent lobster – is not to be missed. Be sure to try their Seared Tuna Steak (jet-fresh tuna perfectly charred coupled with crunchy bacon bites) and Eiffel’s signature Rib-eye Steak. It’s a juicy and tender rib-eye cutlet coupled with buttery Allgot mashed potatoes! This could be better than a visit to Paris…

Savvy Saver Tip: Book through Chope and enjoy 15% off Eiffel’s A La Carte Menu (excluding beverages and service charge)

Dishes We Love: Homemade Duck Foie Gras, Classic Lobster Bisque, Rib-eye Steak
Price points: Starters [$68 – $168], Mains [$158 – $288]

Find it at Stage 5, Shop G514, Tai Yue Ave., Tai Koo
Book a table at Eiffel Bistro

le Relais de l’Entrecote

Located in bustling Wan Chai, le Relais de l’Entrecote is the place for authentic French bistro flavours, crunchy home-made fries and tangy, signature ‘secret’ sauce that has all of Hong Kong talking. We love how le Relais uses only the freshest, and highest quality ingredients, imported directly from France.

Le Relais’ affordably priced set lunch menu is the gem that keeps on giving. Their ‘light lunch’ menu starts at only $168 and comes with a Green Salad with Walnuts and le Relais’ signature Steak & French Fries drizzled with a unique sauce. Le Relais’ Steak et Frites is to die for! The crunchy, yet light, sizzling duck fat potato wedges coupled with a juicy French sirloin seared to perfection showcases the best of French cooking. If you have a sweet tooth, then be sure to try out le Relais’ tender, rich, and creamy vanilla bean-infused Crème Brûlée (!). If you’re on the east side of the Island, head over to le Relais de l’Entrecote for the best of what France has on offer at an affordable price.

Savvy Saver Tip: Pre-purchase Chope Vouchers, and get 10% off

Dishes We Love: Green Salad with Walnuts, Steak and Fries with Unique Sauce, Profiteroles
Price points: Set Lunch [$168], Set Dinner [$288]

Find it at 222 Queen’s Road E., Wan Chai
Book a table at le Relais de l’Entrecote

Bistronomique (Kennedy Town)

Head over to Bistronomique’s Kennedy Town outpost for great flavours and striking minimalism. With its high ceilings, Bistronomique’s dining room decor touts Scandinavian chic meets country rustic. We love the warm cream tones , providing a soothing ambiance overall. Tables are a bit too close for our liking, but hey, what’s not to like in being close to your fellow comrades? Maybe you can try a bit of their Roasted Goose if you ask nicely.

Led by local chef David Lai, Bistronomique combines the best of local Hong Kong flavour with the techniques and culinary concoctions of the kitchens of illustrious restaurants such as Alain Ducasse’s Le Louis XV in Monaco. Don’t miss out on Bistronomique’s delicious Kurobuta Pork Belly and Roasted Goose, a tender and juicy bird, sizzled alongside crunchy, oven-cooked chestnut, sage-infused pumpkin and spinach. For those looking to pinch a penny (or two), check out their fall-off-the-bone Slow-Cooked Australian Lamb Shank: priced at a reasonable $258. All in all, Bistronomique is the place for an affordable yet elegant evening with with your loved one!

Dishes We Love: Brown Butter Frogs Legs, Truffled Salt Cod Brandade, Slow Cooked Lamb Shank
Price points: Starters [$75 – $88], Mains [$248 – $338]

Find it at Shop 1, 1 Davis Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong
Book a table at Bistronomique

Chez Patrick Deli (Star Street)

If you’re in the mood for some of the French tastes you enjoyed at Chez Patrick Restaurant, then visit Chez Patrick Deli and you’ll find the same fresh, hand-plucked ingredients found in Chez Patrick’s food, but for less! Most of the products and ingredients found here are as fresh as those found in its sister restaurant, and you’ll find a bunch of homey bistro menu items including home-smoked salmons, freshly baked breads and homemade pates and jams.

We love the Crab and Avocado Tartar – delicious, hand-plucked crab married with zesty avocado – and the Green Asparagus Soup: salty and savoury, oven-roasted asparagus paired with shallots, onions. We’re also mildly obsessed their Organic Wholewheat Seafood Liguini – jet-fresh squid, clams and scallops married with white wine sauce and fresh tomato, oh my! – and Chicken Basquaise (roasted chicken leg with seared Espelette peppers).

Dishes We Love: Crispy Pork Belly, Crispy Shredded Yam, King Prawn with Bang Sauce and Fried Man Tou
Price points: Starters [$68 – $128], Mains [$118 – $218]

Find it at 3 Star St., Wan Chai
Chez Patrick Deli (Star Street)

The Continental

Even though we know that The Continental isn’t a pure play French restaurant, we love the restaurant’s contemporary design, inspired by Europe’s grand cafés. The best way to describe The Continental is French elegance meets British gastronomy.

What’s more, their Valentine’s Day Set Menu is sure one not to miss. We can’t get enough of their Butter Poached Alaskan Halibut & Caviar, featuring crushed russet potatoes, with tangy lemon butter and luxurious bits of caviar. Don’t miss out their seared Rangers Valley ‘Black Market’ Rib Cap Steak garnished with bits of crunchy cauliflower and black truffle. Finish the night off with a delectable Strawberry Tart, and Champagne Coulis – a freshly-baked tart mixed with succulent, just-picked strawberries. This set menu is definitely one that’s worth breaking any diet for!

Dishes We Love: Taiyouran Egg Carbonara, Rib Cap Steak, Noisette
Price points: Set Dinner [$1,388 per couple], Starters [$95 – $215], Mains [$215 – $625]

Find it at Unit 406, L4, 88 Queensway Rd., Admiralty
Book a table at The Continental

LE CAFÉ de Joël Robouchon

Two-Michelin starred chef Joël Robouchon is famous for his LE JARDIN and L’ATELIER dining concepts, offering the best of French classics amidst a contemporary fine-dining experience. If shelling out four to five-figures for lunch ain’t your thing, head over to LE CAFÉ de Joël Robouchon, and savour Michelin-starred culinary delights at half the price!

Neatly ensconced amongst the litany of Harbour City shops with the likes of French staples such as Maison Margiela and Chloé sits Robouchon’s affordable offshoot, LE CAFÉ. We love the Mixed Mushroom ‘velouté’ with Black Truffle and their sumptuous Hokkaido Kegani Snow Crab Salad with Avocado off their starters menu. Mains worth pecking at include Crispy Duck Confit with Fresh Figs and Cabbage as well as Iberico Pork with Mashed Potato and Classic Charcutiere Sauce. Sure, having dinner whilst hearing hordes of shoppers vying for the next GUCCI sale sure ain’t romantic, but LE CAFÉ offers high-quality timeless French classics at an unbeatable price.

Savvy Saver Tip: If you’re in a hurry, head to LE CAFÉ’s express counter and grab one of their baguettes, shipped daily from Paris.

Dishes We Love: Crispy Duck Confit with Fresh Figs, Iberico Pork Rib with Mashed Potato and Classic Charcuterie Sauce, Mixed Mushroom ‘Velvoute’ with Black Truffle

Price points: Starters [$160 – $290], Mains [$180 – $300]

Find it at Harbour City, 2608-2610, 3 Canton Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui
Click here for more information on LE CAFÉ

Les Fils à Maman

Named after four childhood friends who decided to bring back the good old recipes they enjoyed so much during their childhood, Les Fils à Maman serves up simple homemade classics their French mothers used to cook them everyday.

We love the Obelix & Asterix references, and the adorable childhood pictures of the co-founders of the restaurant, found in Les Fils’ rustic menu. It’s certainly something unique, and different vis-à-vis other restaurants that we had the pleasure of visiting. We love the outrageous value found within Les Fils’ lunch menu, including dishes such as Fried Spices Babybel Croquettes, Raw & Smoked Salmon Rilletes as well as Fish of the Day and Seasonal Pot. What’s more, most French degustations at Les Fils are under $200! As an added bonus, we dig their tastefully designed interior; it’s reminiscent of the rustic chateaus off in France’s Burgundy region and costs waaaay less than a plane ticket to France.

Dishes We Love: Fried Spices Babyel Croquettes, Raw & Smoked Salmon Rilletes, Seared Red Tuna Burger
Price points: Starters [$40 – $100], Mains [$155 – $200]

Find it at 75 Hollywood Rd., Central
Click here for more information on Les Fils à Maman

Cocotte

The instant that you walk into Cocotte you’re reminded of that chic Parisien home with plush velvet chairs and eye-catching wallpaper. Standouts at Cocotte include the juicy Steak Tartare, and delicious Crab Cake as well as the perfectly-seared, oh-so-tender Wagyu Beef Bravette Steak. Cocotte’s Discovery Menu is certainly worth perusing, especially their Truffle Risotto, which features truffle shavings and parmesan married with delicious pasta. Don’t miss out on the Grilled Beef Mignon, a juicy, chargrilled cut mixed with freshly cut and perfectly salted homemade fries. Oooh la la indeed.

Dishes We Love: Truffle Risotto, Grilled Beef Filet Mignon, Goat Cheese and Vegetables Tart
Price points: Set Dinner [$1,388 per couple], Starters [$95 – $215], Mains [$215 – $625]

Find it at 9 Shin Hing St., Central
Book a table at Cocotte

Tags Cheap, Cheap and Good, French, Guides, Michelin, Save

Features Restaurants

7 of Our Favorite Things About The Summerhouse

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date February 8, 2017
No Comments on 7 of Our Favorite Things About The Summerhouse

Located in a historic bungalow and compound in the precincts of Seletar Airport, The Summerhouse is an idyllic summer retreat which features its gourmet restaurant The Summerhouse Dining Room & Balcony Bar, located on the upper storey of its premises, and Wildseed, a Café, Patisserie and Bar, on the ground level.

Whether it’s a slow morning over freshly brewed coffee or a lazy dinner night out with friends, The Summerhouse will guarantee you a gastronomic journey with a focus on ingredients sourced directly from farms in Singapore and beyond.

1. Home away from home

A welcoming respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life, The Summerhouse is set in a picturesque rolling landscape which almost feels like an English countryside (who needs a 12 hour flight to London when you have this right around the corner?). Upon arriving at the premises, you’ll probably need a second to adjust to the vastness of the site. Spacious and undoubtedly calming, we felt right at home the instant we stepped through the doors.

2. Farm-to-table principle

Chef Florian Ridder’s nature-inspired menu comes straight from the land and sea to the plate. Whether it’s food from The Summerhouse’s edible garden (!) or local farmers, his cooking is heavily inspired from the best of seasonal harvests. The outstanding flavours that these fresh ingredients impart to his dishes are key in making them so deliciously memorable.

3. The must try dish at The Summerhouse

Picking a favourite dish from Chef Florian’s many amazing creations couldn’t have been more difficult, but it’s definitely worth noting that his Buckwheat porridge was one of our top faves!

Inspired by Chef Florian’s childhood experiences growing up in Germany, this warm bowl of creamy comfort is served with a sprinkling of sunflower and pumpkin seeds, topped with herbs from the edible garden, and garnished with parmesan wafers for an extra piquant touch (we were sold as soon as he told us about the parmesan wafers!).

4. A sandwich-lover’s paradise

Trust us when we say you’re making a big mistake if you think you can give the sandwiches at Wildseed a miss! While the menu changes seasonally, you can trust that quality ingredients are used to make these bad boys and the flavours are a full on 10/10. Did we mention that they come in hefty servings too? And we still couldn’t get enough!

5. Classic cocktails, reinvented

From the nimble mind (and hands) of Wildseed Bar’s resident mixologist Yadhaven Santheran comes unique concoctions such as the classic Singapore Sling recreated as a ‘Beetroot Hibiscus Sling’, and the well-loved Dark & Stormy but with a twist.

The Dark & Stormy is poured at the table from a glass bottle filled with smoke, which gives this rendition its signature smokiness – the presentation alone left us in awe!

The whisky goes down smooth, followed by soft hints of the ginger beer, cinnamon and orange peel. Don’t be surprised if you end up finishing at least two of these!

6. A dessert party worth coming back for

Whipping up crowd-favourites with innovative twists, pastry chef Jasmin Chew’s array of desserts and cakes are as charming as they are mouthwatering. Her most renowned creation is the Ginger Flower Banana Loaf which is deliciously moist and fragrant.

Other favourites include the Pea Flower Muffin – a whimsically-coloured pastry with a Gula Melaka and desiccated coconut filling. The soft turquoise colour of the muffin and the enticing aroma of the coconut are enough to convince us that this could be one of the best desserts of 2017 – totally worth breaking our new year’s resolutions for!

7. Fresh roasts & vibrant blooms at Wildseed

Don’t just take our word for it – try one of the best cups of coffee in Singapore, brewed from beans roasted on site from its partner coffee roaster, Nomad the Gallant. With a range of brews available at Wildseed, it’s not difficult to see why coffee enthusiasts have already dubbed this space as one of their favourite spots to enjoy a nice cuppa. Fresh seasonal blooms are also available from their partner florist, Poppy Flora Studio, located within the café. Wildseed has yet to accept reservations, so we’d recommend getting there early to save yourself a spot!

Find it at 3 Park Lane, Singapore 798387
Book a table at The Summerhouse and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Chef Florian, Coffee, Feature, Healthy, Organic

Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: Top 11 Restaurants to Try in Singapore this February

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date February 3, 2017
No Comments on Fresh Eats: Top 11 Restaurants to Try in Singapore this February

From nature-inspired dishes to a magical dining experience, you can bet your bottom dollar that there’s something amazing to try every week in February with these latest haunts.

The Summerhouse

Be prepared to have your mind blown when you set your sights upon the grandeur of the architecture on which the Summerhouse resides. Housed in a pristine, ivory heritage conservation bungalow built in the 1930s, it is located in Seletar which offers diners a relaxing respite from the city. The kitchen is helmed by chef de cuisine, Florian Ridder, who has garnered experiences from numerous Michelin-starred restaurants such as Piment, La Belle Epoque and Alma by Juan Almador.

On the restaurant’s second floor, Ridder has adopted a farm-to-table concept, providing a Collective Farming Menu ($90++ per pax for a 10-course meal) where guests can enjoy the best of local ingredients with in-house harvests from the restaurant’s Edible Garden. A crowd favourite is Panzanella, an eggplant ‘caviar’ served in tomato broth and drizzled with coriander oil. We are extremely taken by his Kelong Rojak as well, where Ridder adds finely-chopped rojak flower and burnt lemon zest onto fresh prawns caught from local kelongs and serves them with dollops of Thai basil puree. Enjoying these unique creations in a tranquil and relaxing setting is definitely worth going the extra mile for in our book!

Find it at 3 Park Lane, Singapore 798387
Book a table at The Summerhouse and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Wicked Grill

Head’s up, East Coast! Things are about to get a little hotter with the latest grillery opening along Tanjong Katong Road: Wicked Grill, a casual bar, grill and steakhouse will be serving tasty meats, freshly caught seafood, and succulent poultry that will satisfy your cravings for days.

Bringing to the table a range of grilled meaty offerings such as the bone-in ribeye steak and striploin, we don’t doubt for a second that Wicked Grill’s meat-centric menu is a carnivore’s dream come true. We can’t get enough of their grass-fed grilled Lamb Shoulder that’s cooked tender with only a mild hint of butter to complement its original flavours. Giving the traditional burger a little posh upgrade is the Truffled Shrooms Burger where Wicked Grill serves a grilled patty with a slice of cheese and piles it with truffled mushrooms for that extra touch of umami.

When you’re experiencing a serious meaty craving but is running low on cash, pop by Wicked Grill for your fix of grilled meats and enjoy some seriously good food that’s great on the stomach and easy on the pocket!

Find it at 306 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437089
Click here for more information on Wicked Grill.

One Night Only

Nothing says classic Red, White, and Blue like a good ol’ plate of fried chicken, mac & cheese, and pancakes. Located in a quaint corner in the hip River Valley Road enclave sits One Night Only, an intimate and charming eatery, complete with diner booths and warm mood lighting, that serves simple and unpretentious American fare.

We love how the ambience of the diner made us feel at home, and the food even more so! Tuck into the Buttermilk Fried Chicken for the ultimate Americana experience – the chicken is marinated in buttermilk and then fried to a crispy perfection on the outside while maintaining all its juicy goodness within. For something with a little more kick, the Nashville Hot Chicken would be your best bet for a fiery affair, and don’t forget to order that side of Mac & Cheese (trust us, you won’t regret it)! We’d recommend taking it up a notch and getting their Chicken-Fried Steak. Here’s a hint: it’s not chicken.

As for drinks, nothing goes better with fried chicken than a tall frosty milkshake. One Night Only does a solid range of shakes, including special concoctions like the Brooklyn Egg Cream, and diners can opt to have it malted. You can bet that these are enough to bring all the boys to the yard!

Find it at 397 River Valley Road, Singapore 248292
Book a table at One Night Only and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Acqua e Farina

This little 60-seater neighbourhood ristorante at Upper Bukit Timah dishes out authentic Northern and Southern Italian fare that makes it perfect for intimate get-togethers and family dinners.

With a name that means “water and flour” in Italian, it comes as no surprise that the made-from-scratch pizzas and hand-rolled, egg-based pastas are specialties at Acqua e Farina. We were told that Chef Antonio Manetta handmakes and kneads the dough for his pizzas, allowing it to rise for at least 30 hours before using them for the Neapolitan-style red and white base pizzas (a dedication like that can only produce the best dough, we believe!).

Acqua e Farina’s signature pizza, the aptly named Pizza Acqua E Farina, is a crowd-pleaser and we can see why: the oven-fresh dough is topped with the classic Italian combination of spicy salami, tomatoes, mozzarella, ricotta and sautéed spinach. You wouldn’t want to miss Chef Antonio’s Risotto alla Zafferano e Salsiccia, a radiant dish that embodies simplicity at its finest. We are in love with how the smooth and creamy risotto takes on a sunflower-yellow vibrancy and hints of earthy flavours from the saffron, while chunks of fennel sausages add texture and depth to the rice.

Find it at 400 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Rail Mall, Singapore 678040
Book a table at Acqua e Farina and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

The Wall Singapore

It’s not too late to hop onto the whisky bandwagon: The Wall Singapore is the latest addition to Singapore’s bar scene and they’re here to help de-mystify the art of whisky drinking on a friendlier and more accessible platform. Named for the 100-year-old shophouse walls that house this laid-back establishment, The Wall is a Whisky & Sumiyaki Bar that offers an exquisitely curated list of whiskies and a full dining menu. Some 20 top-quality whiskies by the glass are available at an extremely friendly price starting from $14 per glass.

Unlike other whisky bars that focus almost entirely on the drinks, The Wall takes a different approach by offering whisky and sumiyaki pairing sets from $49, and a Chef’s omakase with whisky at $168 to ease guests into the art of whisky appreciation. For whisky novices, this is definitely a welcoming ‘spirit-ual’ experience!

There was also a whisky tasting chart, indicating the characteristics of whiskies, which helped us in selecting whiskies with the type of flavour profiles that will suit our palates. Those who prefer to savour whiskies with a twist are in for a treat: The Wall plays with whisky’s versatility and presents it through the lineup of whisky-forward cocktails. We were spoilt for choice with a range of classic and bespoke cocktails created by The Wall’s bar manager with our preferences in mind.

Affordable whiskies and quality food? We’ll drink to that!

Find it at 76 Tanjong Pagar Road Singapore 088497
Book a table at The Wall Singapore and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Platform 1094

Wands at the ready! There’s finally a place to geek out for hours on end at the newly opened Platform 1094. Already making waves in the region within the first month of their opening, there’s just something magical about Platform 1094 that people can’t seem to get enough of.

When you first step into this wizardry-themed café, the warm brick walls and inviting wood-panelled ceilings and furniture beckon you into an ambience that is both soothing and welcoming at the same time. Fancy throwing in a little cosplay to heighten the experience? Go all out and don yourselves in wands and witch’s hats that are provided by the café – and did we mentioned that it’s free of charge? Plus points for that!

From their ‘Magically Delicious’ menu, we highly recommend the Pesto Mayo Pork Ribs, where the slab of ribs is first poached to tender perfection in buttercream then served drizzled with creamy pesto mayo and the butter-cream brown sauce that the pork was cooked in. For something a little healthier, their Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad and Beetroot & Carrot Soup are two must-haves. The desserts at Platform 1094 are also a sight to behold: the intricate Bloodberry comprises two chocolate shells filled with Hoegaarden Rosée and yogurt parfait. On the other hand, the majestic Black Magic looks like something from right out of the Forbidden Forest, with an assortment of black sesame panna cotta, squid-ink profiteroles, charcoal bread, blackberries, and a chocolate wand plated into a deliciously dark masterpiece.

However, it comes as no surprise that the most famous and talked-about item is the Goblet of Fire, an enchanting beverage made of Blue Curacao liqueur, lemonade and Bacardi rum which is torched before serving. The pièce de résistance is saved for last when a sprinkling of cinnamon powder is dusted above the drink, creating mesmerising sparks and flames that left us spellbound! Citrusy, sweet and tangy, it’s hard not to love this simple yet tasty concoction – we were certainly, ahem, spellbound.

Find it at 1094 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 328192
Click here for more information on Platform 1094.

7. Pololi Singapore

If you didn’t know, poké bowls are the latest rage in Singapore. With so many specialty eateries popping up, we’ll do you a solid by sharing it doesn’t get more authentic than those at Pololi, the latest hotspot in town to get your hands on this Hawaiian favourite.

Chef and entrepreneur Steph Kudus first started Pololi in Hong Kong three years ago after graduating from the U.S., where her college summers were spent riding waves and enjoying poké bowls in Hawaii. With flavours inspired by many of Steph’s favourite foods & her travels around the world, Pololi holds a repertoire of more than 20 different poké flavours where five different flavours will be served daily. Portions at Pololi only come in two sizes – the standard Da Keiki Poké Bowl ($15.99) and the heftier Da Kama’aina ($17.99) – but the range of flavours alone are enough to keep us coming back for more. Looking to savour the flavour without feeling the guilt? Swap out the white rice base with brown rice, salad, or both!

You can never go wrong with signature flavours like Traditional Spicy or Yuzu Salmon for an authentic experience. For a mid-week pick-me-up, enjoy their weekly specials such as Sweet Onion Teriyaki Swordfish, Thai Spicy Tuna, Korean Spicy Tako, Ginger Marlin, & even Sambal for those who love a little kick! The menu also offers special Hawaiian treats such as Spam™ musubi (tastes better than it sounds), tropical granitas and ice-cold beers from Kona Brewing Co.

Find it at 51 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 048441
Click here for more information on Pololi Singapore.

Botanico at The Garage

Not until you’ve tried dining in the heart of nature will you be able to understand how transcendent that experience can be, and that is exactly what a night out at Botanico at The Garage gives you. Helmed by Spanish-born Chef Antonio Oviedo, Botanico offers a modern dishes from a seasonality-driven menu to bring the best of diverse flavours to the table.

Beef or steak tartare are a dime a dozen but Botanico’s Lamb Tartare is definitely a first for us (they had us at ‘lamb’). Garnished with egg yolk cream, pickled onions and nasturtium, this starter is one of the most indulgent we’ve ever had. For mains, try the pan-seared Spanish Mackerel and Roasted Pigeon cooked two-ways. Signature cocktails Blackberry Lychee Mojito and Thyme Lemonade make perfect accompaniments as well.

Desserts like the Botanist take on a whole new level of creativity: a dish of cucumber sorbet, coconut cream, lime jam and granny smith cubes sprinkled with kaffir lime zest, each mouthful is a flavour explosion in your mouth – baby, now THAT’S a firework!

Find it at 50 Cluny Park Road, The Garage @ Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore 257488
Book a table at Botanico and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Ho Rang I

Drawing upon his Korean heritage, restaurateur Edward Chia (who also happens to be the founder of the DoSiRak) sets up Ho Rang I in the heart of Novena to bring homestyle Korean cuisine to the table in a setting that is stylishly modern yet pleasantly humble. Ho Rang I has also received a nod of approval in the Michelin Guide, serving as a testament to its authenticity and dedication to Korean roots.

Lunch at Ho Rang I sticks to the classics: we appreciate the simplicity of the of noodle and rice dishes, homemade Banchan (Korean appetisers), and soup of the day. Homemade gochujang (korean chilli paste) is used in their Gal Bi Sal, or Grilled Beef Short Rib Bibimbap, rendering it a satisfying rice bowl that packs a punch. Being noodle-lovers at heart, we instantly took to the Gamja Ramyeon (Pork Rib Stew with Instant Noodles) which features Ho Rang I’s signature stew from Edward’s long-lived family recipe.

For dinner, we’d recommend to start with their signature seafood pancake Haemul Pajeon that’s good for two, where a fresh medley of seafood is tossed in simple batter with a sprinkling of scallions and pan fried until deliciously crisp on the outside and fluffy within. A whiff of this had us coming back for seconds! A night out with friends isn’t complete without a good korean barbecue session – once we sank our teeth into their Yangnyeom Samkyub Sal (soy-marinated pork belly), we were sold. Their newly-introduced fried chicken, made with locally farmed chicken and served with Yangnyeom spicy sauce or ganjang sauce (Korean-style soya sauce), is a great way to kick-back with a beer and relax after work.

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

Ola Beach Club

No one does a day of fun in the sun better than the Hawaiians do; with Ola Beach Club bringing the best of Hawaiian-inspired enjoyment to sunnyside Singapore, you can bet that there’s plenty of fun to go around for everyone! While the watersports and daytime activities are highlights at the club, we can’t help but rave about the Hawaiian fare offered at Ola that rings true to the pacific islander way of life. Helmed by Chef Liinson Heng (who’s had stints with OCF, Joel Robuchon and Swiss Butchery), you can count on the fact that the menu at Ola is fashioned to impress.

Hot starters like the Grilled Octopus showcases the best of the sea’s bounty served with a side of earthy olive tapenade, confit tomatoes, roasted fava beans, artichoke and house-made garlic and saffron mayonnaise. With mains, it doesn’t get more Hawaiian than the Loco Moco, where a delicious Wagyu beef patty is cooked to perfection and placed onto steamed Japanese rice with sesame seeds and chopped konbu (kelp) and topped with a panko-crusted egg. And who doesn’t like piña coladas? A sip of Ola’s Melemele Tiki that comes with a special twist (think homemade cinnamon banana puree) left us pining for more!

Find it at 46 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, Singapore 099005
Book a table at Ola Beach Club and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Fynn’s Restaurant

Simplicity and elegance come together in this inviting and contemporary space to bring the best of wholesome foods and global favourites. Located in the latest enclave of South Beach Avenue, Fynn’s Restaurant’s modern yet laid-back ambience make for the perfect setting for lunch, dinner and even weekend brunches.

Go for a classic brunch favourite with the Vanilla Hot Cakes with Coconut Cream and berry compote (because why not?). In an age where healthy-eating is on the rise, we’re impressed with their Grilled Chicken Fried Wild Rice, where succulent pieces of grilled chicken and a variety of healthy vegetables such as snow peas and edamame (we feel healthier already) are placed on a bed of fried rice. We find the Rice Noodle Salad, plated with watercress, shredded chicken, sweet nashi pear and drizzled with Oriental Citrus Dressing is also worth a mention.

With the comfortable ambience and their delectable dishes, Fynn’s may very well be the next hotspot for anyone looking for a good time.

Find it at 26 Beach Road #B1-21, South Beach Avenue, Singapore 189768
Click here for more information on Fynn’s Restaurant.

Tags Bars, Fresh Eats, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Guides, Healthy, New Restaurants, Newly-opened