Akari Japanese Dining Bar: Winter Kaiseki Set

One of my best meals this year had to barely fit into the schedule of things. Coming to a close shave with the end of the year is Akari's Winter Kaiseki Set meal;  conceptualised by Chef Hirotaka Murata of Nkano, Tokyo. A quick glance at his credentials and you'll be assured that you're in for rollercoaster ride of epic gastronomical revelries. 

The best part would probably be the price tag that doesn't threaten to cast a looming shadow over the meal. Let's be practical here, but sitting down to the idea of a $500 tagged omakase meal does bear a weight of unreasonable expectations and impending misery should things go sour. Akari Japanese Dining Bar is offering two kaiseki set course choices, priced at $100++ and $150++ per pax respectively for a 9-course kaiseki menus. Set to mystify even the most regular of Japanese food gourmands, Chef Hirotaka Murata provides several twists and turns throughout the flight with seasonal ingredients and winter-bound flavor pairings.

Cajun on Wheels: Louisiana seafood truck @ Pasarbella

I can't quite recall the last time I had crab. Honestly, I really don't have it to often. The challenge of retaining a stain free shirt at the end of the feasting often the more intimidating factor that would steer me clear of that option. I would say that being a klutz has been a major deterrent in my choice to partake in crab, but the more poignant reason would be plain laziness. However, Cajun on Wheels isn't just your standard zi-char style Chili Crab or Black pepper crab, hence its worth the mess. In true American gourmet fashion, mussels and crabs are piled high on to a waterproof plastic sheet layer that hides the wonderfully decorated table tops of the new Pasarbella at Suntec City. A shame really, but the umami-laden galore of seafood that greets the eye is equally attractive.

The menu at Cajun on Wheels is kept simple, staying true to its roots of imitating a Louisiana seafood truck with Cajun influences. Seafood is simply boiled in bags with herbs and spices till just cooked and served with a variation of local-fusion sauces such as Salted Egg Yolk, Thai Red Curry and the kid-friendly Cheesy Cream.

DC Comics Super Heroes Cafe: Festive Season Menu | Better late than never

Christmas celebrations at The Shopped at Marina Bay Sands veers away from the usual posh nosh fare with the festive season 3-course menu at DC Comics Super Heroes Cafe swooping in to the rescue of all the daddy and mummies in distress, fretting over where to bring the kids to for Christmas celebrations.  

Dishing out American cuisine with a heavy inception of Superhero charm in every aspect - cocoa powder stenciled patterns on drinks to batman shaped carrot cutouts in your soup;  DC Comics Super Hero cafe is perfect for the young ones or perhaps those still flagrantly young at heart. 

Christmas Rhapsody @ Orchard Central: Food Trails, sugar hits and more...

I'm sorry to have left you in the lurch regarding the Christmas issue but hey I'm back from the grave (where I've witnessed many macaron shells died a unsightly death) and here to tell you about some crazy X'mas specials happening in Orchard Central itself - delicious deals that are dispensed only because of the generosity of the owners themselves during the festive period. So grab it now or forever hold your peace.

'The Future of Us' x 2am: Desserts of the future.

Ever wonder what Singapore will be like 50 years down the road during SG100? Here is the chance to postulate with “The Future of Us” exhibition, a multi disciplinary platform that brings about experts from all walks of society onto one communal “think tank”.

                                      

One of the subjects that intrigued me the most was the future of food. I had the pleasure of attending a talk given by patisserie chef, Janice Wong at her 2:am dessert bar. Being an avant garde in the  confectionery world, she is the first to start a scientific laboratory for edible sweets in the Biopolis research hub before relocating it to the Japanese capital a few years back.

Angelina: Dishing out a warm rustic French Christmas | Festive special menus

For those celebrating Christmas in sunny Singapore... my heart goes out to you. Sure, we don't have white Santas on every street corner, nor reindeers or even the slightest chance of snow. What we do have is food and plenty of it. My next few blog posts will display the lucrativeness of this festive period, covering everything from burgers, festive sundaes to gorgeous terrarium creations; some good, some bad and some down right ugly. With Christmas only coming in once a year, and people marginally more generous and good spirited, why not cash in on this holiday season? There's no debating this annual mandatory plot.

Let's kick off the merrymaking with a trip down to Angelina which promises a warm rustic French Christmas with its festive menus. Available daily till the 31st of December, it's 3 course set menu priced at a wallet friendly $60++ comprises appetizers such as the Chestnut and Maderia Veloute or the Pan-Seared Foie Gras with rhubarb compote and fruit toast. The former, perfumed with the warm aroma of toasted chestnut does bring to mind a joyous celebration in front of the fireplace, the slight tipple of Madeira into the smooth concoction bestowing the dish with a silky rich edge. Those seeking something a little heavier on the palate should veer for the latter, reinforced by a sturdy slab of perfectly seared foie gras that would have left an oil slick in your mouth if not for the puckering sour rhuarb compote. Baked Angus beef au poivre with Forest Mushroom Fricassee fills in as an excellent main, though I admittedly would have loved a little more salt rather than black pepper crusting my steak as the overall combination of peppery mushroom fricassee rendered the whole dish a pepper wasteland. Other options include the walnut crusted halibut or baked duck breast. The ominous glare from the words 'Dessert of the Day' throws everyone off guard; I honestly can't vouch that you would receive a lovely surprise package. All you can do it hope and pray that there would be a citrus cheesecake of sorts that miraculously finds it way to your table.

Som Tam @ Orchard Central: Modern Thai Fusion Cuisine

When it comes to food, the possibilities are endless. The prospects of fusion and implementing the basic fundamentals of natural selection into the flavor structuring of its signatures is indeed limitless and awe-inspiring - as a result, many food establishments jump on the bandwagon in order to invigorate and tease their audience's palate. In fact, it's funny how Orchard Central plays hosts to several of these rogue identities - 49 Seats, Joie by Dozo and Tanuki by Standing Sushi bar among others. New to the scene is Som Tam - a modern Thai fusion restaurant bent on giving Thai food a new lease of life. It's grand gesture beginning with its ambitious placement in the hip hangout Orchard Central.

Fort by Maison Ikkoku: Raise your glass this holiday season

When I first heard that the trio behind Maison Ikkoku bar was opening a bar on Fort Canning, it got me really really excited. Afterall, this new bar would be highly perched on quiet grounds, far away from the usual drinking holes down south of the river. More importantly, it was an effort of Maison Ikkoku, one of the pioneers and shakers of the local bespoke scene.

For this project, the folks at Maison Ikkoku also decided to rope in F&B veteran Ethan Leslie Leong who doubles as one of Fort's directors and master mixologist. Many might have heard of the world's most expensive cocktail, but they might not know that Ethan was the one that conceived the recipe for "The Jewel of Pangaea" which is sold exclusively in Club Pangaea for a whopping $35,000 per glass. Still, holding the reigns as the world's most expensive drink.

A celebrity in his own rights, he had done countless collaborations with international renowned brands such as Chanel, Montblanc and Polo Ralph Lauren, among others. Ethan was also appointed the Brand ambassador for Martell, in line with the celebration of Martell's 300 years anniversary earlier this year.

With so many accolades to his name, it was hard not to pin my hopes high.

Megumi Japanese Restaurant @ Upper East Coast Road: Japanese nosh with a local spin

I'm just going to dive straight into the food. Because that's mainly what it is about at this no-frills Japanese eatery tucked away in the Upper East Coast Road region, flanked by the ever-so crowded Perle Noire and Strictly Pancakes on the other side.

Focus on the sashimi, and not the stiff faces of the floor staff, whom not once in my time spent at the joint even lifted the corners of their lips. Since the ordering is done through an IPAD system, it more or less lessens the interaction between these drones and the diners, so I'm not complaining. It just bugs me a little that the kitchen which bears so much soul in its cooking is cold and barren on the outside.

My orders of Mekajiki ($14 for 5 slices) and Salmon Belly ($12 for 5 slices) was inspiring. Thick slices of omega-3 laden treasure pots on a single dish definitely is a sight for sore eyes. We could have eaten 5 of these and begged for more. The Ebi Tempura ($15) was your run off the mill regular fare, the light batter not possessing as much crispness as I would like, however, the stiff, crystal snap of the prawns within, do make a difference. 

[GIVEAWAY] Quayside Isle @ Sentosa Cove: Celebrate the Magic of Christmas

There's nothing quite as magical as sipping on some champagne by the harbor at sunset. With a view to die for, and a coldish breeze adrift, this is pretty much as good as gets here in Singapore. 

The developers behind Quayside Isle have nailed it; killer views matched with a formidable force of food and beverage establishment lining the picturesque wooden docks - this is the place you want to be on an anniversary, a birthday celebration or even just for Friday chill out sessions with the homies.

This Christmas season, Quayside Isle is spreading the joy of giving with exclusive promotions and dining options that promise a one-of-a-kind experience. Sure, bright lights, joyous cheers and plenty of good food to savour is one thing, but congregating the loved ones where the magic unravels is another more important reason to congregate at Quayside Isle @ Sentosa Cove. Expect roving acts on deck as whimsical angels on stilts and dynamic LED jugglers make special appearances on the 19th and 25th December.

The Knolls @ Capella: Sunday Brunch featuring Nespresso Pure Origins Journey

Escape the madness of the city with a quick drive across the waters to Sentosa , where the peacocks roam the grounds with a streak of haughtiness in their stride (and a bit of viciousness when food is in plain sight); Here at the luxurious sprawling expense of Capella, a deep dark intense secret is brewing.

To bid farewell to the remaining months of 2015, Capella presents their usual Sunday Brunch at The Knolls with a twist. Working in sync with Nespresso to feature their Prestige Range of Pure Origins Grand Crus in an enticing range of coffee-infused canapes. 

So, if you have plans to navigate their crowd-pleasing Sunday Brunch, do make a detour from the usual sashimi and oyster bar and ensure a good fill of the new canapes which not only pack a big hit of caffeine, but also exhibit high levels of finesse and attention to balance of sweet and savoury flavors.

OverEasy (Orchard): you make it so easy to love you

Sweet redemption.

The instant gratification that washed over me as he nodded in agreement to the reinstated goodness of the 'to-die-for' burger. 

Okay, so here's a recap, I've always been a big fan of Overeasy's burgers as seen from here and here. It's succulent patties matched alongside divine pillowy soft buns, attaining some sort of legendary status in my books, that I would happily expound fairytales about, to friends enquiring about my favourite burgers.  However, the story goes that that a recent trip to their new joint at Orchard Road (here), resulted in some very distraught sentiments after the jump. The lacklustre sear and uneven seasoning in the patty left a good three-quarters of my burger left untouched on the plate. Fortunately, after a bit of damage control, reparations were made and faith restored.

The 'To Die For' burger is a passionate contender for the best burger with its beautifully charred patty exterior and perfectly cooked medium rare innards. Simple does it here at OverEasy and their signature burger is done in good ole' diner style. slapped with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles and a special burger sauce. Set in a potato bun that helps to keep the juicy mixture intact as you lift it to your lips, the bun is the perfect candidate, hard on the outside, a spongy, soft natured on the inside. I couldn't have done it better.

Weekend Haunts: Places worth checking out for their [NEW MENUS] part 2

Happy Sunday Folks!

If you're enjoyed our part 1 of the "Places worth checking out for their NEW MENUS" then, you're gonna love our second instalment.

More places to wine and dine this weekend without bursting the budget. We've got everything from 

fish tacos to the jumbo breakfast burrito, and even a Chia Seed coconut rose yogurt with homemade maple granola and berry compote for the health freaks. Loud and rowdy, with loads of laughter and way too many empty plates. That's how you know you're doing your weekends justice.

Let's start the ball rolling with the familiar Oriole Coffee + Bar stationed under the big ass fans in the vicinity of the Pan Pacific suites in 313Somerset. Under the influence of head chef Randy Torres who is a true blood Texan; the menu has taken a sharp curve in a South American direction with inspiration drawn from many comfort dishes in that region. Breakfast for examples sees two newcomers, the Jumbo Breakfast Burrito ($16) and the Humble Baked Egg Skillet ($16); both of which are real treats except that my allegiance falls with the latter. The lovely amalgamation of flavors you get when churning your spoon through the hot cast skillet of tender roast stew, sweet potatoes, and the piece de resistance - caramelised emmantal cheese forming chunks of savoury shards throughout the full bodied mixture. This disappears way too easily, as so does the jumbo breakfast burrito which so happens to be the perfect kind of hangover cure. Stuffed with Spanish chorizo, scrambled eggs, chipotle puree and smoked cheddar cheese, these tight rolls are then seared on all 4 sides till a desirous shade of brown; abetting the eating experience, where you'll gratefully avoid the situation of burritos that fall all over your plate instead of your mouth. Oriole does it right, and they know it.

Weekend Haunts: Places worth checking out for their [NEW MENUS] part 1

With a whole slew of restaurants/cafes being opened every week; diners are being spoilt for choice whenever the weekend rolls in and the hellish decision as to 'where to eat' has to be made. Take our advice and commit to visiting the oldies (but goodies). Here are some of our picks for the newest menus in town, discounting the fact that these joints have been stationed there long enough to prove that they have a certain amount of substance to survive the gruelling trials of the F&B scene in Singapore. These joints are dishing out heavenly fried chicken, tender beef cheek rendang and outstanding eggs benedict, all guaranteed to make your weekends a whole better.

Oxwell & Co.: Christmas Fabulous Feast

Christmas kind of snuck its way into our calenders once again, the entire year passing us by like a whirlwind affair. Now, its time to line your stomachs with traditional Christmas roasts and prepare for the assault of one, too many alcoholic beverages in the course of merry-making. Naughty or nice, I'm sure Santa's too busy overworking his minions to tell.

So, moving on, Oxwell and Co.; the British inspired gastro-pubs rolls out its festive menu in true English style, with traditional roasts and pork crackling to foster the spirit of sharing and caring with a convivial communal dining practice. 

Oxwell & Co. resides in this over-trodden neighborhood of Ann Siang Hill being knocked around mercilessly by the well-heeled crowd, bar-crawling their way through the vicinity and punishing their livers in the midst. Walk in the front door and you're in a wood sheathed interior with minimalistic walls decorated with twisted piping, similarly defiant lamp shadings bouncing off the walls in a free spirited disarray. It's a bohemian space, like a dingy pub gone rogue; and the food here is equally manic.

Masizzim: Heart Warming Korean stews in the heart of town

I may not be the most up to date when it comes to imported Korean establishments nor am I the most enthusiastic. But when something as good as Masizzim washes ashore and you get the privilege to try it for the first time, during which the dining experience brings on a rhapsody and chimera of narratives; you share it.

And not just in terms of words or preachings, but very soon I was back at the joint, with boyfriend in tow. And boy did we enjoy the food, apart from the mishap that occurred when we realized that we got charged for rice balls that never quite made it to the table. *hic*... rookie mistake... too much cocktails before got us all muddled up. Looking past that, you can't quite fault the food, especially with a menu as tight and well focused as the one at Masizzim.