Tag Archives: restaurant

Aug 15 2012
Leave a comment
Food

Ma Maison Restaurant

The Ma Maison group of Japanese restaurants include full-fledged restaurants and cafes and what’s making them do so well is their casual yet hearty affair. Ma Maison @ Bugis Junction, the outlet I visited, had a Japanese-French appeal with its dim interiors. Despite seeming a tad too dim and dusty, I loved the rustic charm of the narrow restaurant.

An extensive menu awaits you at Ma Maison as new items are regularly added and may come in the form of a whole set of lunch and dinner offers and set meals.
IMG_4934

A plate of prawn paste chicken wings ($9.80) to start the meal as appetizers. Nothing much to rave about them though.
IMG_4936

 

Surprisingly, the different outlets of Ma Maison all have differing signature items. Ma Maison @ Bugis Junction emphasizes on their mains of beef steak and pastas. Their hamburg steak dishes look especially appetizing (plus the fact that I have a thing for japanese beef) so I got the Italian Hamburg with Cheese ($16.90). Though the steaks weren’t out-of-the-world fantastic, I still like the idea of what I call “casual beef” at comfort prices.
IMG_4947

Fruit pies and tarts are a must when at Ma Maison. Initially I was pretty much tempted by the massive array of colorful fruit pies, cakes and tarts however a sudden appearance of brownie and ice cream on an isolated sheet of the menu changed my mind in the spur of a moment. Surprisingly, the seemingly out-of-place dessert was made well – a soft, light one for the tummy.

Overall, with its centralized locations, decent food and prices, I see no harm to return. Next on my list: the praised Tonkatsu at Tonkatsu by Ma Maison, new kid on the block Aloha Ma Maison and more cakes at Cafe Ma Maison!

 

200 Victoria Street

Bugis Junction #02-51

Singapore 188021

1130 – 1430, 1800 – 2200 on weekdays

1130 – 1430, 1700 – 2200 on weekends

Tagged , , ,
Jun 30 2012
2 Comments
Food

Chili’s Grill & Bar

IMG_4490

Chili’s Grill and Bar entered the Singapore food scene not long ago and has been quite a dormant name to mention when looking for somewhere to dine. I myself have never thought much of Chili’s till I stepped into the obvious outlet at Resorts World Sentosa. Curiosity got the better of me when I saw the snaking queues at dinner hours. Now, I wouldn’t say that Chili’s whip out the best Mexican/Western/Tex-mex food out there, but in terms of everything it makes a great place to simply chill out on Thank God It’s Fridays.

IMG_4494t

There weren’t a lot of mouths of us there, so we thought opting for some appetizers would be good. Then we came to realize that the portions of their appetizers might as well be of main courses. So an advice would be: Chili’s is good for groups. Quesadillas – of fajita-marinated chicken with cheese served in tortillas. I would not deny that it was satisfying but I thought the flavors could be more distinct.
IMG_4500

On the other hand, the Classic Nachos made up for its shortcomings. There is a dominant taste of seasoned beef and cheese. A good kind of salty; just like how nachos should be. I enjoyed it more than the quesadillas, so this is the appetizer to have.
IMG_4505

As usual, I couldn’t get myself to leave without ordering a dessert. My eyes were all on its signature choice – the Chocolate Molten Cake. Unfortunately (fortunately) my love for molten cakes have not dissipated, I feel that it is triumphing over other inferior cakes and tarts. Shocked but very, very happy was I to have the biggest lava cake I’ve seen so far in my life – five inches. A soft sponge cake with chocolate that flows.

I felt that everything went right with this meal. I was comfortable with the casual spaces, pleasured by the friendly service, appalled by the irrelevance between their serving size and affordable prices and bloated (in a satisfying way) by the food. It will be hard to decide even which category on the menu to turn to so I definitely recommend coming with a bunch of people. Much as the burgers and pastas seem to be special, the fajitas and crispy chicken and ribs here put me in a dilemma. I can already imagine myself going back to get a little taste of everything.

Resorts World Sentosa

26 Sentosa Gateway

#01-072/073/074

Singapore 098138

Tagged , , , ,
Jun 22 2012
Leave a comment
Food

HonGuo (红锅)

Photobucket

I have always seen HonGuo at Nex mall but thought nothing of it. So it was not until that day that I first came to know about the cross-bridge vermicelli. HonGuo is most known for its “cross-bridge vermicelli” ( 过桥米线), which is a type of rice noodle in a soup base from Yunnan, China. It is also one of the most famous dishes in the Yunnan cuisine, boasting a history of more than a hundred years. It’s name derives from a legend which says that a scholar’s wife would cross a bridge everyday to an island where she would carry a large bowl a soup with uncooked ingredients to to cook it for the scholar.
Photobucket

For me, it’s attractive points lies in the fact that it is a healthy dish yet it can be manipulated into something filling and satisfying at the same time. For a long time, the two words “tasty” and “nutritious” have always been associated with this dish. A big, red bowl (literally meaning 红锅) of piping soup is served on a tray alongside minute plates of sides including spring onion, eggs, mushrooms, ham slices, fried fish slices and of course the vermicelli. You can have the choice to put them all in the bowl yourself. The broth was good; tasteless of MSG and salt even though there was a layer oil. There are three choices of the vermicelli: either with 7 sides or 11 sides or 15 sides to go with. I can hardly remember the exact number of sides for the three choices, but the biggest set I know is of 15 side dishes and is priced at $8.50.
Photobucket

Other dishes on the menu are mainly rice and noodle dishes which seem appetizing but I guess it’s always good to start off with the traditional cross bridge vermicelli.
Photobucket

Bugis Junction

230 Victoria Street

Singapore 188024

Operates daily 1100-2200

 

NEX

23 Serangoon Central

Singapore 556083

Operates daily 1100-2200

Tagged , ,
Jun 13 2012
1 Comment
Food

TWG Tea Restaurant

TWG has been around since God-knows-when with all their lovely tea products.

There are currently 3 locations of TWG Tea Salon & Boutique locally, namely Orchard, Republic Plaza and the Marina Bay Sands. I would have to agree that the location at The Shoppes is the most outstanding with its unique place on a “bridge” amidst the smell of designer shoes and bags. Yet, TWG at ION Orchard also deserves a shoutout for its convenient location among Singapore’s largest shopping belt. Despite it housing a dining area a tad small, it has attracted people especially for high tea among the area.

Tea is everything about TWG so the food here are literally infused with tea as ingredients as well. I would say that they were all worth a try even though it may be a little pricey.

Macarons here are $2 each and I had the Earl Grey Fortune & Chocolate. It was less sweet than ones without that special earl grey but definitely not lacking in any other way even though I would prefer the norms.

IMG_4557-2

 

The TWG Tea Lasagna ($20) came with 3 choices: Garden vegetables, bolognaise ragout or seafood.
IMG_4563-2

I did not expect the main courses here to be that satisfying as it turned out. The Wagyu Burger ($24) could be as good as a burger place. I loved the delicious “matchstick” fries that came along with it which reminds me of truffle fries. The “tea” element here is in the vinaigrette on the greens, it is said to be infused with a 1837 Green Tea.
IMG_4558-2

Smoked Scottish Salmon ($28)
IMG_4567-2

I was curious as to how a tea infused Creme Brulee ($12) would taste like, nearly regretting my choice. But then it turned out that I may even like it more than I do for the usual creme brulees. The taste of egg custard is milder but yet turned into something so unique. A great experience, I must say.
IMG_4560-2

Reservations are a must especially during peak hours given that it can only hold less than 20 diners. Besides the lunch and dinner menu, the tea time sets are truly popular and so gives me more reason to go back for its scones and tarts.

 

ION Orchard

#02-20/21

Singapore 238801

Operates daily 10am – 10pm

Tagged , , , , ,
Jun 04 2012
Leave a comment
Food

Shin Nichi Japanese Restaurant [Closed]

IMG_4445

Going straight into the restaurant: I like the white and airy and spacious feel of Shin Nichi, unlike several other Japanese places with intense yellow lights. The interiors most suit the mood for lunch with its casual and refreshing feel of daylight entering.
IMG_4448

It’s hard to choose from the wide variety of sides they have! The Arabiki Sausage ($5) was simply cheesy sausages. I felt that the few small pieces were ordinary and not worth the five bucks it was priced at. I believe the several types of sushi on the menu would be of more worthy a try.
IMG_4461

What better way to test out a Japanese restaurant selling ramen than ordering the recommended Char Siew Ramen ($13.80)? A difference compared to the usual ones I’ve had was the much thicker slices of char siew. I thoroughly enjoyed it, but my satisfaction level would never match the one I had after my trip to Tokyo.
IMG_4452

The Chicken Katsu Don ($12.50) seemed rather appealing on the outside but unfortunately, it was not as such on the inside. I would say that the ramen served by restaurants in Singapore are a lot better than the rice meals. Perhaps its the difference in popularity here.
IMG_4451

Most of the desserts such as the chocolate lava cake and caramel pudding were unavailable on the day I went, so I was recommended the Green Tea Cheesecake ($5.80) which was not on the menu. It was a light dessert to end our Japanese meal. The three layers infused with soya beans, red beans and green tea were distinct, however I was looking and tasting everywhere for that element of cheesecake. Yet I liked the cake. I also had a scoop of peach flavoured ice cream at $5.50 which was equally light and refreshing as the cake.
IMG_4467

Shin Nichi’s menu includes a variety of ramen, don, sushi and many side dishes which tempts people to order a table-ful of them. Much like a casual restaurant, I would not say that the food is fantastic, but for people living around the area it is a good hang out. As you can see from the second picture, the restaurant has also emphasis on their Japanese wine and sake, with some promotions running along especially when night falls. With a location at the riverside walk in Punggol, it’s a no wonder that many families and groups of buddies can be seen at peak times.

No. 10 Tebing Lane

#01-03/04

Singapore 828836

Tagged , , ,
May 26 2012
Leave a comment
Food

OverEasy Bar & Restaurant

IMG_3916

I’ve always wanted to see the line of classy restaurants such as Jing and Forlino along the bay at One Fullerton. Amongst them, online reviews and the site of OverEasy has made it seem to die for. So when I had the chance to be at Fullerton for a photography session, I was pleased to have dinner there as well! It seems like a habit of mine to grab every opportunity to check out dining places while on another course or task in the area.

May I say that OverEasy is added to my all-time favorites list?

To dine directly opposite the Marina Bay Sands is an amazing thing. I refuse to dine in the interiors of the restaurant for that matter. Evening was perfect.
IMG_3911
IMG_3918

OverEasy’s menu is extensive and mouth-watering. They were Western favorites put in a special recipe. Not only that, but I like how the menu appeals to me. It’s either the blue and black fonts or something. It was hard to decide, but I ended up with the Steak Frites with Bearnaise sauce & truffle fries ($32). Looks wise, it was brilliant. I loved how well the bearnaise sauce (similar to hollandaise sauce) went with both steak and fries. Then I realised that thin, short and crispy truffle fries like OverEasy’s make the best truffle fries. I assure it tastes better than it looks.
IMG_3920

Desserts wise, I guess it was an even harder decision, all of them sounded one of a kind! The Blueberry waffle with crunchy streusel & vanilla ice cream ($12) was unlike a normal waffle. It’s interior  were fluffy and filled with blueberries, on the other hand, the toppings were a good symphony. Mmm.

You would also be happy to know that be it for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, supper or drinks, this place is suited for any of the above. All day breakfast items are available, the large and small plates make up an appetizing meal and their late-night promotions always keep the buzz of patrons going on and on throughout the night.

One Fullerton Road

#01-06 One Fullerton

Singapore 049213

Operates weekdays 1130-1430, 1700-0100

weekends 1700-0400

Tagged , , , ,
May 03 2012
1 Comment
Food

Billy Bombers American Diner

I’ve always loved the idea of an American meal. It sounds comfortable. This resolves around retro red plushies, milkshakes, burgers and floats. With a casual, chatty background. There are a few outlets of Billy Bombers in Singapore and I’ve always felt that they are sort of underrated, you could have seen it numerous of times but not even heard of it. Comfort food, comfort surroundings and at comfort prices, that’s pretty much everything we would bargain for.

The American hound dog ($11.90) might not look like a big serving here, but actually it’s an American serving. Now that’s legit. The accompanying coleslaw and potato wedges were satisfactory but even I wouldn’t find anything amiss if the dog was to be served on its own.
IMG_3881

American brownie ($7.90) – this one came doubly sweet and chocolaty, the brownie was overflowing of chocolate and chocolate and chocolate. Generous stripes of caramel and chocolate criss-crossed one another on the big dish: a reason why you should not stop until you literally licked off every corner of the plate. Extremely chocolaty brownies are an addiction, their small squares of portion would keep you craving for more.
IMG_3886
IMG_3879

The location at The Central for this outlet is great. Besides chilling in the air-conditioned dining area, you can head out for scenery overlooking the Singapore River and the colourful blocks of restaurants on the other end. Go for the burgers, beef, hot dogs and a root beer float to top it off! There’s nothing as good as living the American dream, is there?

The Central @ Clarke Quay

#02-78

Singapore 059817

Tagged , ,
Apr 26 2012
2 Comments
Food

Fish & Co.

Fish & Co has been a long-lasting semi fast food restaurant as far as I know. It has undergone modernization in recent times and is nowadays, becoming a trendy venue for casual, chatty meals and even birthday events. I love their specialty and tagline of SEAFOOD IN A PAN. You literally eat out of a pan. Yep, this was my very first time in fish and co despite the many years; I’ve had doubts if they were just selling overpriced fast food. But I guess you can never judge a book by its cover.

Seafood Platter for 1 ($19.95) – a great deal and you can have it all for yourself! Besides, the prawns, fillet and calamari is served atop a serving of paella rice and fries or mashed potatoes, so I reckon it’s a great steal for seafood lovers. However, I do find it weird that rice is served with potatoes over here – the double intake of similar carbs seem like a dangerous idea.
IMG_3890

White Fish & Salmon ($18.95)
IMG_3889

Whenever the word ‘fish’ appears, fish and chips automatically registers in my brain. The New York Fish & Chips ($15.95) took me by surprise, it was unlike those I’ve had at everywhere else. It’s crisp outer layer was satisfyingly thin and you will find that the battered fish is so soft to penetrate through. The meat was incredibly tender. In it, generous stuffing of parmesan cheese. There are aplenty of choices of fish and chips such as the Italian, Singapore, Arctic and Danish (which all sound attractive as well). New York would be their all time classic favourite.
IMG_3888

I was recommended the Chocolate Pecan Cluster ($6.95) by a waiter as my original order of key lime cheesecake was not available and when it arrived, I thought it was oddly shaped enough. That didn’t matter much soon as I thoroughly enjoyed the explosion of thick chocolate fudge and nuts in my mouth. Serving size was not too much to deter a too-much-chocolate-attack and so it ended my meal perfectly.
IMG_3891

I have to say that with their extensive range of categories and many choices available under the menu, dining at Fish & Co can be a little tricky as you’ll be spoilt for choice. New items like pasta have also been added to the menu, but don’t forget the legendary seafood and fish.

Ion Orchard

2 Orchard Turn
#B3-20
Singapore 238801

Opening hours:

11:30am to 10pm daily

(and 13 other outlets island wide in Singapore)

Tagged , , , ,
Apr 14 2012
Leave a comment
Food

Pepper Lunch: Go Curry!

IMG_3665 copy

(Curry Rice with Seafood)

If you’re a local, you can’t not have heard of Pepper Lunch.

Originating in Japan where there are about 200 outlets located, Pepper Lunch has been brought to the Asia-Pacific region and its waves have reached onshore of our tiny island. Since then, outlets sprung up everywhere. From full-fledged Pepper Lunch restaurants to the express version in food courts, it is almost impossible not to spot any of them once you step out for shopping.

I guess their attraction points go to the fun of “cooking” your lunch in those sizzling iron plates (which are patented in Japan). What’s better, the smell of your lunch sizzling along with the sizzle. You may come out smelling like you went to a barbecue but I guess that’s not the point. I believe their reasonably priced items make it an ideal place for people especially teenagers nowadays to have a quick lunch. Last but not least, it will be Pepper Lunch’s well formulated pepper rice. There’s just something about the rice with pepper that makes Pepper Lunch, Pepper Lunch. The weirdest thing would be that I have a friend who orders pepper lunch without the pepper.
IMG_3667

With more and more additions of items to their menu, I’m nearly spoilt for choice. Or maybe I really am. Recently, I had the Curry Rice with Beef & Hamburg Steak ($11.90), and I found that the Japanese curry used did nothing but good! Japanese curry is mainly sweet rather than spicy and is much thicker than normal curry. Also, with a supplement of $2, you get to choose a side. In my opinion, the miso soup would be the best choice. The more popular items would be their hamburg steak, which is considered quite a cheap bargain for a good piece of steak.

Now, there’s even pepper pasta available at the restaurants!

3 Temasek Boulevard

Suntec City Mall #B1-010
Singapore 038983

Tel: 6884-9828
Fax: 6884-5759

Hours: 11am – 10pm

*Plus 7 other restaurants and 24 express stalls

Tagged , ,
Apr 10 2012
Leave a comment
Food

PAUL Bakery

A legend from France has arrived.
IMG_3794

The very much anticipated french bakery and cafe-restaurant, PAUL, has made its way to our doorstep. Paul is a renowned bakery establishment most famous in Europe, and not to mention hundreds of franchises worldwide. When the boards for renovation of the area where it is now were put up, I felt the wave of excitement.

The menu had a wide array to choose from ranging from bread baskets to breakfast items like eggs to sandwiches and more. I thought the Potato Pancake with Salmon ($21.40) sounded more special and ordered it. The potato pancake is something like rosti but quite different from it. Fried to a crispy skin revealing strips of well-flavored strips of potato, I enjoyed it especially with slices of smoked salmon atop it. To my surprise, they tasted good together. A vegetarian alternative would be the potato pancake with mushrooms.
IMG_3777

I wouldn’t recommend the Waffle with Chocolate Sauce ($6) over here. Sure enough, it was rather crisp but I thought it was normal as a find anywhere else.
IMG_3792

On the other hand, the Chocolate Millefeuille ($6.40) is one of the must-try pastries at Paul. It is more like a stacked chocolate biscuit full of creamy goodness of chocolate. After that, I found some reviews claiming that the Vanilla Millefeuille is even better than the chocolate one! Uh oh, I guess I’ve got to make a trip back to Paul.
IMG_3782

I would like to think that this one’s made specially for the ladies. This Strawberry Tart ($6.40) certainly grabs the attention of any girl. The strawberries were glazed, hence turning out sweet more than sour. This time, yet another creamy goodness surrounds the strawberries in held together as the centerpiece, making the tart taste as sweet as it looks.
IMG_3788

Some feel that the franchise in Singapore has fallen short of their expectations while others are simply enjoying the new food. Perhaps it may not seem at its best compared to the franchises in Europe but I think that it’s just it being placed in the Singapore context. There are 2 dining areas to Paul and I don’t really fancy the squeezy sitting area outside the restaurant. The ambient is just not there. If I were to ever head back, I would probably ask for a sit in the more comfy main dining area. Queues are still going long so be prepared to wait.

Also, don’t forget to takeaway some bread and pastries like their pain au chocolat, croissant and even huge macarons home from their bakery!

391 A Orchard Road
#03-16/16A/17
Ngee Ann City Tower A
Opening Hours

Bakery: Sun–Thu: 8.30am – 10pm
Fri–Sat: 8.30am – 11pm
Restaurant: Mon–Sun: 10am – 11pm

Tagged , , , , ,
← Older posts
Newer posts →