L'Espresso: Victorian English Afternoon Tea
d'Good Cafe: do your stomach a favor and eat here!
MEDZS: taking you over the rainbow this Christmas
Horizon Bistronomy: somewhere in the middle of no where
{Wordless Wednesdays}: Curbside Cafe and Wine Bar
Macarons, no.. not Laduree's
With the renowned French brand, Laduree recently stealing the limelight and bringing macarons back into fashionable conversation material; I took the liberty to suss out a few other Patisseries at work with their versions of the sweet sandwich.
First stop, De La Creme where the Gulu Melaka Macaron ($2.40 per piece) offered a fusion of Asian flavors into this usually dowdy French pastry. I adored the coconut infused buttercream filling and squealed in delight with the flowy gulu melaka (palm sugar) surprise center; unfortunately, the macaron shells themselves weren't a thing of beauty, pasty white and severely unbaked in the centers with a clear show of squishy uncooked meringue. It led me to wonder how these macaron shells were unmoulded in the first place...
While we were at it, the Genevive ($6.90) became our next victim. Employing the magic of Valrhona chocolates in this dessert, white chocolate ganache is layered over 70% Guanaja chocolate mousse and then cast over a crispy praline feuilletine base. Composition wise, this was very similar to the Douceur we had at Patisserie G sans the dacquoise layer at the bottom. Having the crispy layer stationed at the bottom made for cleaner cuts and swipes at the rich confectionary.
Our next port of call is ET Artisan Sweets at the Grandstand along Bukit Timah Road. Decked our in pretty pastels, the shop front was a sight for sore eyes. The display case itself was quite a stretch with items ranging from macarons to cheesecakes and even freshly baked tarts.
Spoilt for choice, I did my ordering on a whim. A hunch and a slight glimmer of hope that my choices would speak volumes on behalf of the kitchen's standards. The Blueberry Macaron ($2.50 each) was a lovely shade of lilac. Despite it's less than smooth surface and lack of shine, the macaron shells were near perfect. Reminiscent of a strong flavor of almond, these delicate beauties gave way to a fruity buttercream within. The Yuzu Macaron did not disappoint as well, the complexity of it's citrus nature standing out in the curd fillings. I was beginning to understand why some have told me ET Artisan Sweets had some of the best macarons in Singapore.
The Black Sesame Cheesecake however failed to translate the seedy flavors of the black sesame. I should have been a better judge, it's faint grey color tint, a tell tale warning sign. Thank goodness for the Lemon Tart that wowed us with it's ingenuity. A thin layer of sponge lay buried between the crisp tart shell and the puckery sour lemon cream. A dam to prevent soggy tart bases, now that is surely the work of a genius since the sponge offered a twist with textural contrast as well. Definitely highly recommended!
Aside from it's range of confectioneries, ET Artisan Sweets prides themselves on their customised cakes. Splotches of evidence blotting the shop, these elaborate works of arts placed around the shop allowing customers to fully admire the prospects of having literally any cake they want. Service staff adding fuel to the flames with their beckoning that ,"yes, we can even cover the whole cake with macarons if you wish!" when I gushed about the macarons after my meal.
On a separate note, Mothers' Day is around the corner, what are your plans to surprise the most important woman in your lives?
42 Siglap Drive
Singapore 456167
Website: http://www.delacreme.com.sg/
ET Artisan Sweets
200 Turf Club Road
The Grandstand #01-35A
Singapore 287994
Website: http://www.etasweets.com/
Friends@ chomp chomp
Was browsing through the newspapers this morning while chomping down my breakfast of honey almond clusters cereal. Not exactly a glamorous scene given that I was in pyjames, hair all over the place and a white bowl clutched in my hand as I shoved a spoonful of the yummy morsels into my mouth. *crunch*...
Guess what I saw that stole my interest completely? nono, it ain't from the political section nor the finance part of the paper. But it was a blown up article about 1-1 deals specially for DBS cardholders. well, with nimble eyes i scanned the list quickly. 'Lawrys', check! 'Big O', Check! 'Cafebiz', check!'... 'Friends @ Chomp Chomp', CHECK!!! oh my gosh.. my big break! 1-1 set lunches/ dinners and on top of that 1-1 housepours/ beer? How could resist such a deal. With that i called up babe to tell him about a last minute plan for tonights dinner that i had conjured up in my head. All the while, dreaming about the spread of food that await me tonight.
So here's a food review on Friends @ Chomp Chomp. And as mentioned earlier. I scored the 1-1 deal for set dinners using my DBS credit card. (so all those holding the card, pls consider making a trip there!) . The set dinner comprised of 3 courses and a tea/coffee to end off the meal. With the usual price at $39.00 (sans the extra charges), I was expecting a quality meal with rather large proportions to boot.
and my selections follow: (sorry about the poor photography as the restaurant was really dark! Guess they sorta like the romantic feel with all the lit candles and rather dim lighting. Yikes)
The smoked duck salad was to die for! I love the stewed green apples on the plate as they added a rich and heavier feel to the entire dish. The duck breast were flavorful, smoky and wonderfully addictive. Wish i had more! Next up, the Coq Au Vin. I loved this dish as well as the red wine stew was hearty and beautifully rich with flavor and aroma. The chicken was tender to the bone and the mashed potatos were creamy and matched my ideal consistency. I was taken by this dish. The desserts on the hand were less spectacular then those promised on the menu. Apparently the warm apple tart and chocolate mousse cake with pistachio cream were off the menu that day. DARN!!! i was so looking forward to licking that pistachio cream off the plate! oh well.. at least the accompanying coffee was of a certain standard.
Overall, the dishes were of miniscule sizes and my dining companion, my dearest babe complained that it was too little. I couldn't agree more though i was filled up nicely. Given the heavy price tag of (U.P $39) set dinners. I was expecting a little heartier a serving. *cold water splashes down my back* Oh well, point of consolation. At least the service was good.. food was served up at a consistent rate. And the wine.. 1-1? now that just fabulous (said with a gayfied drone) isn't it?
Friends @ Chomp Chomp
1 Maju Avenue #01-01A
Serangoon Garden Village
Tel: 62892600
Website: friendsfoodandwine
On a side note, here's my favourite Mariah Carey song of the moment. I know its really old, but I just love her lower register in this piece. Perfect song to walk down the aisle with...a little bit of everything
Alright off to the movies again today! Have caught the movie fever as of late and now the theatres are probably my second home. Considering the ticket prices now these days, catching the movies have perhaps become more of a burden on the wallets more than anything else. So here are my thoughts on the movies i've watched and whether they are worth the extra dollar.
- Chronicles of Naria: Prince Caspian
i recall reading the collection of books in my younger days hence I am more than thrilled to see this screened. With much biasness, I advice everyone to watch this movie. Not only for it intriguing plot; one with a fair mix of magic, fairytale and dark nature; but also for its talented cast whose excellent acting skills allow viewers to sink into the reality of the situation with ease.
to watch or not?: Yes please!
- Sex and the City
I enjoyed this film a whole lot. I wouldn't quite categorise it as a chick flick. Neither is it very intellectual but in some way or another, it carries with it a little weightage in terms of values. A film that takes you into the undies shoes of the characters and sends you on a whirlwind journey of emotions. Surely a good film for a girlfriends get together especially with the featured high end fashion that would send you ooh-ing and ah-ing. Not forgetting the humongous walk in wardrobe! *sigh*
to watch or not?: Watch! u surely cannot miss this one! a pity its highly sensored here in Singapore. *oops*
- Kungfu Panda
Desperately in need of some laughs? Then you won't go wrong with this animation film. Trust me, i almost gagged laughing on this one.
to watch or not: A MUST WATCH!!! one of the best animation films I've ever caught...
- The Incredible Hulk
a much better spin-off of the ang lee version; the incredible hulk offers mostly action pack sequences and high adrenaline scenes. Love the Tony Starks (a.k.a iron man) cameo at the end. now that was the pivotal moment for me.. hehe.. he's awfully manly gorgeous. *slurps*. Otherwise, a rather good show for easy digestion.
to watch or not: Yesh.. with the testerone driven boyfriend
Oh well, from the looks of it, there ain't escaping the movie season then. Pardon me for my lack of assistance in this department. hehe.Went out to afternoon tea with my dearest Evangeline at pan pacific hotel this afternoon. What followed after; endless chatter, platters of cakes and a mouthful of godiva chocolixir. *swoons*. I had an enjoyable time Evan! meet up again soon yar! Don't worry, I'll remember to get some goodies back from Australia for you! *smilez*
A tiny glimpse into the delightful afternoon treats we enjoyed. I loved the signature passion fruit cheese. With its almost silky texture heightened by the taste of citron and a surprise passion fruit centre. This certainly proved to be a light and refreshing treat for the taste buds. I couldn't say the same for the raspberry sacher though. Very disappointing...
and finally, a slice of the cake which caused me all the trouble last night. Had a nibble today.. *yummy*.. peanut butter and chocolate cake, brown butter chocolate frosting with the addition of salted peanuts down the sides. Almost suffered a cardiac arrest just slapping the dallops of creamy peanut butter into the batter! Chocolate and peanut butter... my vice...
gifts and birthdays
Brother has came back! Intact, safe and sound; from the land of drugs in abundancy and where whores line the street. you know where I'm talking about don't you.
That's beside the point.. because, most importantly, he got me a gift!!!
Macarons dragged all the way from a quaint little shop in the french provinces all the way to my door step! Gosh! i'm so happy! Now i get to taste authentic french macarons!
Hailing from a modest little shop called Maison Richard, the macarons were.. hmph.. how do i describe this.. different. Yes, indeed they were incomparable to any confections I had taken to at bakerzin, obolo, canele and even my good friend Evan's home made ones. I'm no expert in this field however the two are worlds apart. The french ones.. crunchy with little ounce of the chewy texture you find in the 'norm' ones. I highly suspect that they somehow dried out over the few days of travel. but still I have my doubts. Now i'm confused.. what are the real macarons supposed to taste like? *hmph*... i reckon I'll probably have to head down to France one day to check out the real deal. No cheating this time...
and again from the oven. here are some peeks into my week filled to the brim with baking! Somehow I can't imagine life w/o baking for the next month. Perhaps I could beg someone to lend me baking equipment during my stay in melbourne. *pleads*... I won't want to resort to stealing.. hehe.
Can't wait till the next posting. Something magical brewing out of the oven soon!Meanwhile, here's a little video to occupy yourself.. just for laughs!
competitive edge
before i embark on a long epic tale about the baking competition held last Sunday at House, Barracks and Camps at Dempsey Road. Lets first take a little detour... here's my much needed preparation for the competition...
its Friday with Babe. oohh.. some quality time spent with my Babe just sets me in the mood. and since I'm already at it, i might as well make my apology. Sorrie dear for the failed trip. rest assured there will be a next time alright. Let the future unfold it slowly, dun rush.. perhaps the Lord will be a little more gracious. i love u always. Its hard to even imagine a day without you.
okie.. STOP!
now lets move on to the baking competition before u guys pass out either from the over dose of sacharine or excessive gagging. oh well... so here are some snap shots from the lovely day at house, barracks and camp. If you guys haven't gone there yet. PLS DO! the food (*nudges* especially the 7-layer pancake) looked divine!!!
everything was in a blur as organisation was a bit poor towards the beginning of the event. However, things picked up fine once the judges made their appearance. By then, my cheesecake had been standing in the sweltering heat, boosted only by the aid of the minimal air-con which proved useless with the doors of the glasshouse mimicked resturant swung wide open. Given another chance, I would have definitely done something a little different; perhaps a tart of cheese doughed puffs.
The BIG BAKE OFF! was a competition held in the name of charity with all proceeds from the bake sale and competition registration going to the rainbow children's charity. So besides being able to participate in such a wonderful event, the cause for charity was an added bonus.
The theme of the competition was 'green' meaning that at least one of the ingredients used had to be substantially green. okay.. i can all ur heads churning away already. Well, with little time on my hands, i decided to stick to the tried and tested and re-produced my green tea black sesame cheesecake; this time tasting better than ever after a little R&D. Given the time, i wld have tried my hands at an avcocado white chocolate tart or a pistachio studded cake. its reallie a pity.
The competition proceeded on with few hiccups.. the introduction at the beginning was a little intimidating for me since i've never had the penchant for public sharing. However, it wasn't that difficult after all; how hard could it get when you're talking about cakes and your passion?
On the whole, the event was alright; time was squandered at a merciless rate with the judging carried out at an excrutiating pace. Thank goodness for the company of my family members, babe and the few new frens that I've made along the way! *cheers*. all the gossip and the presence of certain celebs did brighten up the whole affair. (saw the MTV twins May and Choy at the event. Choy was a participant btw and apparently she bakes? her lime coconut cupcakes with lime curd stuffing and coconut meringue were quite good too)
With the event coming to a close at around 2pm. It was a photo frenzy moment as everyone squeezed in for last minute shots. It had a good vibe from it all; i do however suspect that it was the work of the glass of Santa Rita white wine that i had gulped down. But still, though i had no special mentions nor shot at the top prize. It felt good to be there. Doing what I liked, mingling and just hanging out with people who had the same likemindedness. A passion for baking.
Special Mentions going out to Vicki; owner of the lovely sunflower cupcakes. She's only 17!!! gawd i feel so freaking old already. see the silver whiskers growing from under my chin? *yikes!*.. do visit her sales site at http://mysweetniblets.livejournal.com/ . Lets stay in touch yar. Great to be around a young spirited person sometimes... hehe.
Alright that's a wrap folks...
next up, more adventures from the scrubby kitchens. hehe.
the weeping willow
seriously, there was endless ideas to this theme. With exotic fruits like durians and dragon fruits topping the list, but hardly any of them being able to sink in well with a traditional dessert. incorporating theme into normal western styled desserts was not an easy task though as few of these flavors complimented the heaviness and richness of western desserts. to tell the truth, i scorned durians and never once let it cross my mind to include them in my plans.
Black sesame and Green Tea Cheese Cake
here's presenting to you 'the weeping willow'. To break it down. It is all in all, a black sesame and green tea layered cheesecake. Topped with cream puffs filled with green tea pastry cream and surrounded by a lovely wall of homemade sesame brittle. To my delight, the cake turned out beautiful, with every angle of it reminding me of a majestic weeping willow tree peeping over its shadow casted on the lake. Taste wise, it was beautiful on the palette with the sesame seed studded crust adding a touch of fragrance and crunchiness to the entire dessert. I was floored by the outcome, now i'm just sitting and waiting for the next chance to make it once more.
I would like to thank Amrita for this wonderful opportunity. it's been a pleasure baking this cake. From the strange pairing of sesame and green tea in the cheesecake to the experimental tries at making brittle and profitereles! its been a baking experience of many firsts. And somehow through the night, they all turned out successful. Strange but magical in its own way. Perhaps its the power of the orient at work...
midweek
here's a surprise from Babe from obolo for me! wow.. its the v-day collection cakes. *YUMZ*. raspberry chocolate mousse. divine...
Besdies orders I also took the liberty to bake my signature bluberry cake for the guys back at office. hehe. they loved it! most of them in fact ask me what am I doing in Aerospace, i should be baking as profession instead.. HMPH... haha.
farewell my frens
had dinner at ichiban sushi at wisma with a few aero mates as sort of a farewell gathering for Gun Kiat and Janan who will be leaving for Tu-delft next week. A rare occasion indeed especially after our industrial attachments (IA) started and all the coursemates were strewened all over the island. Still, everyone were extremely chummy with each other and just being their natural selfs with the exception of Calvin who was on the other extremity of being overly uproarious.. he was all over the place! boucing all over the walls.. i attribute it to work stress and being deprieved of girl watching while working. haha. orhh.. poor thing.
we had a great time chatting over a extended meal in the resturant to the dismay of the long queue of patrons snaking its way outside the premises of the restaurant doors. Finally we relented and headed out of the resturant to spilit the bill. From there, we headed off to dempsey's Ben and Jerrys for some sweet stuff! *woots*. i can never get enough of tt! and I've realised tt though i've been here at least 3 times, I have not once took any photos of the place. Nice, cozy and comfy, this Ben and Jerry's outlet at Dempseys complete with a B&J van parked outside is the ideal place for group gatherings; wedding planning (???) and some steamy couple action, or rather not. We had a ball of a time though...
The 8 of us ordered two monsterlicious (i think its called tt.. haha. slp does bad things to your already flawed memory) which basically consists of 6 scoops of ice-cream of your choice topped with fudge or caramel sauce, whipped cream, and 2 toppings plus a few cookies and bananas thrown in. WOAH! haha. tt sounds lyke a mountain full of sweets! trust me.. IT WAS!!!
Conversation at our table with Pual, Pingting, YG and i strayed from nonsense to downright crap. haha. unlike the other table, mostly conversing about intellectual stuff (stole snippets here and there).. i reckon its pingting and YG.. there are in a constant brawl when their together. tt was how my 2011 was like throughout the sem. *sigh.. shakes head*. haha.
after the sweet affair, we went for a stroll around the region and as it was getting late and SOMEONE had to head to his gf's hse. so we ended the night on a rather abrupt note... CALVIN!!! u owe us ice-wine yar! hehe.
Anyway, it was great meeting up with the guys after such a long time. Next up, more meet ups please!!! and bon voyage my dear frens gun kiat and Janan! take care whilst in delft and study real real hard. dun forget to play too of course! and dun forget the weed? *ahem*.. just kidding. hehe.
had an order come in for a bdae cake: vanilla chocolate swirl cheesecake. sorrie about the smudged wordings yar! *bleah*
also... took the chance to bake banana cake for the people in my support team at work as well as my supervisor.. as they say the way to man's heart is through his stomach. wahaha. in fact they were so pleased at having something to munch on tt they ask me whether this baking wld be on a regular basis. To tt; yesh! it is! haha. have to discipline myself to try out new bakes at least once every week yar... think tts my resolution for the year. haah.
