Showing posts with label bistro. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bistro. Show all posts
Ash & Char: pushing the blackened boundaries
2016 has seen an extremely warm reception to cauliflower in my culinary dictionary. I can't even begin to describe the reverberating excitement that floods my soul when the thought of Renaa Matbaren's Gratinated Cauliflower crosses my mind. Nicely blackened on it's edges and bathed in a luxurious cheese gratin sauce, this fat-ladened indulgence coupled with frigid -10 degree temperatures on the outside certainly made for a revolutionary experience.
Fast forward to the brink of 2017, where friendly bistro Ash & Char sets the stage for what could potentially make or break my most pivotal first year encounter with the Brassicaceae species. Their Fried Cauliflower with gochujang and lemon dressing with gremolata ($9) sets some high expectations with bonus mark scored on aesthetics. The end result is safe. Taking bites of the browned and slightly crisp florets, the lemon dressing uplifts the equation and gochujang lends a feisty profile. As a staunch believer in the importance of doing the humble bouquet justice, I found Ash and Char's efforts to be admirable. Sugar, we're headed somewhere.
Spuds and Aprons: Food that tugs on your heart strings
Labels:
bistro,
comfortfoods,
family friendly,
hidden finds,
large groups,
mount faber,
must go,
pubfood,
romantic,
special occasion
·
"Stop at one", my emerging muffin top beckoning for a bit of repentance on the dietary front. But there was no way in the world and no will-power that strong to resist the sight of stringy cheese, the reserves of liquid gold dousing steak house frites egging you on to reach for another strand. It isn't long before the entire pile is demolished, the stray sweet potato fry from another appetiser used to mop up the residual of the 6 cheeses. The diet starts tomorrow... trust me, the guilt factor will set in.
The name of the establishment is a dead giveaway; Spuds and Aprons, yes, there are spuds in many shapes, forms and sizes presented throughout the menu. It's comfort factor, unparallelled, yet seemingly a bit out of place in such romantic settings at the joint perched on Mount Faber overlooking a spectacular sunset. It becomes obvious that the only kind of date you're going to get away with is with a lady who appreciates the finer things in life - CARBS.
The Fabulous Baker Boy: Fundamentally Fabulous
Labels:
affordable,
big groups,
bistro,
brunch,
cafe,
cakes,
cakes. affordable,
clarke quay,
coffee,
grilled cheese,
hidden finds,
pancakes,
sandwich
·
Have your cake at breakfast and eat it too! Together with the onslaught of flying pancakes and cheesy sandwiches washed down with a comforting cup of coffee for those much needed morning perks.
Walking into the grounds of The Fabulous Baker Boy situated at the foothills of Fort Canning Hill, just a stones' throw across the road from Liang Court; for the first time, assimilation was instant. Its obscure location is a surefire asset in drawing in the crowds; the soothing waves of greenery present in the surroundings making me feel at ease.
Then, there is that cake display. (inserts jaw-dropped emoticon). A true nightmare for the indecisive and a pure dessert playground for the voyeurs. Right from the moment we stepped into the cafe, our eyes were fixated on the range of 12 cakes on the stand; ahhh..it wouldn't be so hard to make a choice, or so we thought, till we realise there were another 8 cakes in the chiller. Gosh, now that looks real intimidating.
Monochrome Fusion Bistro: the black and white of things
Labels:
affordable,
big groups,
bistro,
cafe,
chinatown singapore,
coffee,
craft beers,
family friendly,
fusion,
hidden finds,
tanjong pagar,
will not return
·
I do not mince my words, and having just put my food evangelist thinking cap on, please pardon me for any feelings trampled on along the way. Believe me, I do not mean it. And even so, we live, we learn and we grow.
Newly opened in February, the Chinatown Precinct sees the looming presence of a casual bistro touting its hold on providing an alternative dining experience, its main aim, to attract the inquisitive taste buds with a penchant for creative design as well as good food.
Unfortunately my visit to the establishment proved to be majorly disappointing. On the design front, I loved every inch of detail within the compound, the white washed walls with whimsical table cloths hanging on knobs, decorative shelves with a bunch of eccentric publications greets the wandering eye as you trod through the narrow corridors leading to the bathroom. The intersperse of striped blocks and circles of black and white imprinted boldly on the walls, tending to the fastidious pastry chef-y side of me. Service staff were young and upbeat, sporting mischievous smiles all around. I basked in the therapeutic ambiance of this design studio vibe restaurant, with the air-conditioning on high in stark comparison to the blinding heat outside.
Life was good.
That was till the torrents of food started flooding our tables.
A for Arbite: the abc of things
Labels:
affordable,
all-day-breakfast,
big groups,
bistro,
brunch,
burgers,
cafe,
coffee,
family friendly,
pasta,
the entertainer app
·
Founded by the budding talents of three secondary school buddies, A for Arbite is the projectile of these youngsters vision. After a successful venture with Arbite at Serangoon Gardens, the trio opened a new branch in Aliwal Arts Center medialized under the 'back-to-school' theme with primary colours splashed boldly across the room and wall to wall chalkboards to radiate that feel.
Determined to slake my hunger for my first drop of caffeine that day, I ordered my regular Cappuccino ($4.50), beans are from Tiong Hoe Speciality Coffee - the result, a well balanced, smooth and robust coffee with a kick of cocoa notes at the end. A for Arbite had started the pleasantries rolling.
Horizon Bistronomy: somewhere in the middle of no where
Labels:
affordable,
ala carte,
bistro,
braised pork,
Cheesecake,
desserts,
french,
hidden finds,
may return,
pasta,
pork belly,
punggol
·
The latest addition to North Eastern dining on our sunny island is the Punggol Settlement. A dining collective of food and beverage establishments housed in a rebooted colonial settlement that is set to charm the hearts of locals with its natural ambiance in cahoots with its natural surroundings of flora and fauna.
We were privileged enough to get a first hand look at the newly opened Horizon Bistronomy spearheaded by Chef Chris Fong who has received tutelage from renowned Bruno Menard and helmed his first bridgade at Anthesis at Roberston Quay. His vision to introduce fine food to the masses at affordable prices with no compromise on quality has now translated into a casual restaurant joint, Horizon Bistronomy, tucked away on the 2nd level of the Punggol Settlement.
Nassim Hill: Where I go to for my Reubens
I shall expound the truth.
The story I tell people is that the only place where I've had a decent reuben sandwich here in Singapore is at Nassim Hill. Truth is, I've only had one locally, this one, and my heart was sold on the subject matter. Period.
My partner relished in the Nassim Hill Double Decker burger ($21), one that sought special attention with a gargantuan poster beckoning from the walls but mellowed in size in reality. With a swish of house made special sauce, 2 beef patties with grilled balsamic onions, lettuce and tomatoes squished between two lightly toasted buns; this was a lukewarm attempt at a burger. Save for the bread, the entire affair was at best, homely - pedestrian.
My Hot Reuben ($18) on the other hand, satisfied all of my wildest dreams. Corned beef made even sexier with a draping of melted emmental cheese, sauerkraut galore, onions and creamy Russian dressing on the signature Asahi Kuronama beef bread. I attacked the sandwich with a vengeance so hard, unhindered by lingering negative thoughts of carbohydrate control. We'll leave that to some other day, the beer bread is just too hard to pass up. *cheeky grin*
On a side note, check out their happy hour deal which run from 8am-8pm daily. Don't say I didn't let you in on this!
Nassim Hill Bakery.Bistro.Bar
56 Tanglin Road
Tanglin Post Office #01-03
t: 6835 1128
Opening Hours:
Tues-Sun: 8am - 11pm
Chez Petit Salut: French fare without breaking the bank
Labels:
bistro,
chip bee gardens,
dinner,
duck confit,
french,
holland village,
lamb shank,
the entertainer app
·
Chip Bee Gardens has seen a revival with the installation of the Holland Village MRT station and the 'big-bang' like pop-up of Sunday Folks along the usually quiet stretch. With that comes accompanied a whole slew of new worries mostly shrouding parking issues.
Not new to the once sleepy neighborhood is Chez Petit Salut, a sister outlet to the more showy Au Petit Salut; here, the style is casual French bistro with hearty traditional French classics ringed in by a respectable wine list. Decor is kept simple, rustic, with an air of nostalgia of the French romanticism period. It's the kind of restaurant where it is possible to go for both lunch and dinner on a single day, a restaurant where waitresses race through the dining halls with four identical bowls of duck confit.
To start off the meal, we had the Oven Baked Portobello Mushroom with melted Camembert cheese and baby spinach ($16) and the Half dozen baked Burgundy snails, tomato fondue & garlic butter ($16). The former (pictured right above) greeted the table; and we wished that the chef had made a mistake with only a measly mushroom to share round the table. Perhaps the mushroom had been a blooming onion before it's brief stint in the oven, but that doesn't warrant such a sad serving. The latter was apparently very well received by the other end of the table. Never got to taste it but I must say that generous slathering of herbed butter definitely whet my appetite.
Some of the main courses that graced the table that night were the Braised Lamb Shank ($38) served 'a la Provencale' in tomato accompanied with root vegetables. This unfortunately never quite surpassed the works of the master, the fork tender protein lacking in personality, but it was good enough to be a contender in any serious discussion of Singapore's lamb shanks.
My Crispy Duck leg confit, sauteed potatoes, streaky bacon and mesclun ($32) was superb, a golden crusty exterior heightened by the showering of fried shallots; all this yielding with the quick prod of the knife to reveal impossibly rich and succulent flesh with the subtle hints of garlic. The sauteed potatoes however were the black sheep of the plate, marring a perfect dish with its slightly undercooked hearts.
There's also the more delicate offering of Oven baked fillet of black cod with ratatouille ($32) should you be seeking a lighter option.
Chez Petit Salut doesn't fall under the fashionable category for today's food mavern, but it for sure, serves up good honest French bistro food that has accumulated a close following over the years. Good for a romantic night out sans the razzle dazzle or an intimte gathering with friends and loved ones.
Chez Petit Salut
44 Jalan Merah Saga
#01-54 Singapore (278116)
Tel: 6474 788
Closed on Sundays
Website: http://www.chezpetitsalut.com/
Jimmy Monkey: When I Miss Home
Labels:
all-day-breakfast,
australia,
beer,
bistro,
brunch,
buona vista,
cafe,
coffee,
hidden finds,
onenorth
·
On the island state of Singapore, food trends are like waves breaking onto our shores, leaving us awash with new choices. We used to lament that finding a good cup of coffee was impossible; now the predicament is which cafe should we head to in order to avoid the crowds. And when I say crowds, that's an understatement.
The 'Third Wave Coffee' has relinquished itself in a influx of cafes dotting the island. Common Man Coffee Roasters, Anthesis, The Bravery, Ronin, The Provision Shop, (working title) and the Le Mama Shoppe are just some of the new kids on the block that have joined in the game. While these fresh picks amuse the hippy youngsters always on the lookout for new spots to instagram from. I always turn to the usual suspects for my quick cuppa. Presenting to you my rock, Jimmy Monkey at One-North Residences.
There's nothing quite fancy about this space. High ceilings featuring some odd features (the still in-tact toilet bowl originally on the second floor)), warehouse aesthetic referncing with minimalist features. Here, it's a safe space, truly evocative of my dwellings in most Sydney cafes where you could slave away on your lappie half the day or craddle a good read without being disturbed.
For something a little lighter on the palate and no less satisfying, order The Hulk - smashed avocado, chunks of feta and homemade dukka on sourdough. The interesting mix of middle eastern flavors and squeeze of fresh lemon juice lifts the dish with a citrusy and rustic nutty vibrancy. Definitely the best dish on the brunch table.
Heartier appetites can go for the Spaghetti with Chorizo and baby spinach. Al-dente with the perfect amount of seasoning makes this simple dish a crowd pleaser.
My mother very quickly worked through her Saint Joseph's Tartine, pausing occasionally to murmur through gorged mouthfuls; mostly swooning. The sauteed mix mushrooms is kryptonite, served on TBP multigrain sourdough and sided by streaky bacon.
I was disappointed by my Breakfast Sandwich though. I'm guessing it's another case of food envy at work but still I cannot dismiss the underwhelming Kay's relish (with a name engraved next to it, you would expect it to be a real showstopper); I could have used a little more of it and perhaps a little less acidity and more robustness.
That mini detail aside, the coffee was perfect. Indulging me in all my caffeine nerdiness.
Jimmy Monkey
9 One-North Gateway
#01-51 One-North Residences
Singapore 138643
tel: +65 6777 8470
facebook: facebook.com/jimmymonkeycafe
It just has to be. In time. In place. In spirit.
It just has to be."
The Big Sheila: Big on flavor
Labels:
bistro,
brunch,
cafe,
cakes,
hidden finds,
restaurants,
Siglap
·
Sundays are special days. A day for sleeping in and perhaps for take multiple swigs of champagne (ideally) after a full on brunch; it is even more so for me since my 6 day work week only allows for one full on day in the sun. Coming to full terms with this fact, I've even took to the habit of sleeping in early Saturdays just to muster enough energy for a full day of activities which include a slightly reluctant and very sluggish trip to Sunday morning service (my bad, I know). That aside, Sundays are meant for eating out, and I go big, working down a list of "must-visits" that have been slowly piling up over the weeks. Is it just me or restaurants and eateries are popping up like baby rabbits all over this island?
So, if like me you are looking for place significant enough for today than The Big Sheila at Opera Estate, Siglap would be my suggestion.
I was a little bewildered by the location of the establishment. Nestled amongst a row of shop houses similar to Jalan Riang, most of which are main kitchens and holding areas for catering and dispatch functions, The Big Sheila stands out as the new kid on the block. Opened by an Australian expat, Fleur Glover, her switch over from a career in IT to F&B speaking volumes about her passion for the artistry of feeding the masses. And her unique styles certainly make for an interesting experience, the food menu constantly evolving, a showcase of Fleur's skills and talent for recognising the need for constant change to feed the Singaporean palate.
Upon entering the dining area, I was struck by the lovely display counters. A throng of beautifully put together delicacies gracing the white counter tops. One can't help but gawk at it's mouth watering appeal.
As for me, I passed and settled in on the couches (what's with all the pillows?!) with my boyfriend. Browsing thru the menu, the counter top mains beckoning from the other side, I finally ordered the Scotch Eggs whilst he went with A Ploughman’s($24++): piggy terrine, packed with pistachio and prune, baby scotch egg, pickles, homemade chutney, aged cheddar cheese and a crusty French baguette.
The scotch eggs were gorgeous, a delicate soft-centered quails eggs enrobed in loosely packed mince adequately spiced and seasoned and then crumbed and lightly fried. A far cry from it's rustic origins of having a full sized hardboiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, crumbed and baked.
The ploughmans platter was a a sight to behold as well. Bright colors and a myriad of textures smearing the granite slabs. I adored it's simplicity yet complexity of flavors when put together. The pork terrine with pistachio and prunes, a winning combination when eaten together with the crusty baguette. Definitely a must have!
I've heard loads about the desserts at the Big Sheila but not wanting to have the temptation of scarfing down an entire slice of cake (look at the size of that Frangelico layered cake!) by myself (since the bf doesn't eat dessert), I gave it a miss. Pity...
All in all, The Big Sheila is a quaint addition to the sleepy chai chee estate. With a ever changing menu of such transcendence quality, it's no wonder the rave reviews and mad gushing from some fellow foodies keep coming. You have to taste it to believe it's magic.
15 Swan Lake Ave,
Siglap Singapore 455711
Tel: +65 6645 4422
Club Street Social: where we had paninis for dinner
Labels:
bistro,
Bread,
chinatown singapore,
club street,
hidden finds,
panini,
restaurants,
sandwich,
wines
·
Located along Genmill lane, a little turn off the rowdy Club Street, Club Street Social has received raving reviews and attention due to it's decor and ambiance similar to the many speakeasies in New York's west village. Having not been to that part of the world before (though I'm dying for the opportunity to creep up), I was eager to fill myself in on the experience even if it might be a make-shift one.
True enough, stepping into the vicinity on a warm weekday night, the honey tone shades of the lights overhead beckoning a sort of ease into our mannerisms, I was instantly charmed. Gorgeous outfitting, mosaic tiled floors and fashionably old fashioned varnished bar counter tops. Stunning.
A quick perusal of the menu saw the bf and I ordering a pair of paninis and Toasted Ciabatta with dips ($12) for sharing.
With regards to food, Club Street Social gives a stellar performance with premium ingredients injected into basic fun fare. First things first, the ciabatta, also used in its paninis is a major super star; with a crisp outer crust giving way to airy pockets of yeasty goodness, it was a huge success serving as a medium for such obnoxious flavor pleasures. I had the pan seared lobster with avocado and yuzu mayo ($28) whereas he settled for the more humble salami, fontina and red peppers chutney ($15). The former was a treasure of all things creamy and luxurious, akin to an occasional treat of lobster thermidore rolled into a tight package. However, in the reality that we were stripped from the intoxicating ambience, the lobster panini plainly put was overpriced. I would have been better off with a burger from &Made. The latter, the salami panini wasn't big on flavor, save for the strangely addictive carb wrapper of a ciabatta.
That being said, Club Street Social leaves one at a major dilemma. I would have loved to have fallen in love with the place. Unfortunately, the quaint establishment falls short of expectations in the food department after having built a reputation high given its daring menu on top of it's less than minimal media exposure. Not a place I'll return to.
Club Street Social
5 Gemmill Ln Singapore 069261
Tel: 6225 5043
Website: http://www.clubstreetsocial.com/
Keong Saik Snacks: What's with the Hype?
Labels:
bistro,
burgers,
chinatown singapore,
restaurants
·
A growling stomach and hunger pangs after a whole day of outdoor adventure racing brought me to Keong Saik Snacks to satisfy my post race cravings. A British Bistro with modern contemporary twists, the basis of it pass hints at satiety and hearty portions. Unfortunately, at the end of the meal, I was left sorely disappointed, albeit with spirits lifted only due to the laid-back atmosphere of the place. With such huge shoes to fill given it's management by Michelin Starred Chef Jason Atherton and rising waves of expectations as we settled into the bar counter seats soaking in the estactic rush of the kitchen (reminding me so much of my mind-blowing experience at Movida in Melbourne); I was really hoping for an extraordinary meal.
The Kimichi Burger ($20) was decent in my opinion. A good thick juicy patty cooked to perfection with the kimchi (of shrimp based origins) being a good alternative to caramelised onions or pickles. Still, portions were small (yeh.. I know they are acclaimed to serve 'snack' sized items), and did nothing for my voracious carnivorous appetite especially after the race.
Jason's Very Hot Dog ($19) fared much better, chorizo based sausage with lashings of delicious guacamole, "spicy' green chili or jalapenos and crispy shallots. This was good per Se, but left a nagging feeling on both me and my partner. given its humble beginnings for an extravagant price
Desserts as urgently requested by me were the Hot Doughnuts with Cinnamon and Vanila Chantilly. French inspired, these hot pillows of fluffy sweetness arrived at our tables quickly. Like French Beignets, the doughnuts were delicious on their own rolled in a crisp coat of cinnamon sugar. What failed it was the accompaniment of Vanilla Chantilly that somehow carried a sour note to its flavor profile, the speckling of vanilla beans deceiving the diner and its texture trending more towards a broken cloud than voluminous ripples of cream.
To those seeking to get a taste of Chef Andrew Walsh's fare, hop over to Esquina instead and give the more insolent sibling, Keong Saik Snacks a miss. That being said, service standards are top notch for a pint-sized bistro; staff were well groomed with admirable flair and armed with substantial knowledge of their products. Overall, this would be a one-off experience for me. I should visit the rest of Atherton's collected accolades though...
49 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089153
Tel : +65 6221 8338
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