Fundamentally-flawed | Singapore Food Blog

Showing posts with label comfortfoods. Show all posts

Showing posts with label comfortfoods. Show all posts

Origin Grill and Bar: a tribute to Singapore's heritage

Nowadays, people want more than just a fancy cocktail whilst engulfed in a certain sexy darkness. They search for experiences, something to soothe the fatigued soul, something to transport them to another dimension.

Enter Origin Bar, a swanky hotel bar whose top-notch drinks and good looks are championed by an earnest intent to pay homage to Singapore's cultural heritage. Looking past the lures of the grilled specialities of the restaurant menu, the bar is a haven of nostalgic sophistication, a sanctuary like in the 1920s. Dressed with accents of peacock green in contrast to old-fashioned wood and distressed reflective surfaces. The interiors are inspired by the romance of voyage by train, and the room is cleverly divided into more intimate pockets of space by velvety drapes in the most gorgeous rich shades. Low lighting contributed by Hassel table lamps create a warm feel reminiscent of European carriages by night, where imbibers speak in hushed tones over the sound of rolling cocktail ice cubes. Some nights Origin is a cocktail hunter's best kept hideaway. Other night it teems with life and pulsates tunes rolled out by live DJs. It is an experiment in opposites and boy does it please the extremists.

25 Degrees Singapore wishes to cast a spell with their Black Magic Burger

As much as I was put off by the tag-line of 'endorsed by A-List celebrities as their go-to burger joint', I could understand what was the fuss about. Rich burgundy hued wallpaper, black leather booth seats and just enough natural light streaming in. If the Los Angeles branch emulates the same feel, it would probably be the perfect spot to be captured devouring a heavy stack while still sporting a cropped top revealing chiseled abs underneath - cue the headlines "How __ Stays Fit - While Modelling and Eating Burgers". oh pls...

[Weekend Pick]: Potato Head Folk for killer burgers and cocktails

It's Friday. What could be more perfect than grounded meat seared to Maillard reaction glory between two sweet slices of buns? Maybe that old-fashioned you're holding in your other hand while studying the bewitching cross-sectional view of the burger. A burger is a simple premise, but doing them well is a dark art. For me, Potato Head Folk has always been on my radar (view here and here) and in a world where consistency is scarce, repeated visits have proven their culinary pedigree.

But first, the illicit goods.

Bird Bird: Gut-busting meals that are guaranteed not to get you laid.

I partook in this meal with someone. And as much as the company was great, I wish it was a lone venture; at least then the only person who was left unsatisfied when I took my clothes off would be me. However, small victories like stumbling upon crispy fried chicken in the suburbs should be celebrated, so I'm going to push past this glut of negativity.

Fried Chicken revolution has been a long standing infatuation within the local community, Prawn paste chicken, chicken and waffles, Chicken 65, Indonesian Ayam Goreng, Korean Fried Chicken, there's a flavour profile to match every occasion. Unfortunately, my obsession with Southern Fried Chicken hadn't received much love from the general public, and over the years, we haven't been blessed with multiple vendors. My firm favourite still being The Beast for their out of this world 24-hours buttermilk fried chicken, waffles with yeasted centers and a jar of magic bourbon maple butter sauce.

Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin: Third Generation Japanese Breaded Pork Cutlet restaurant launches new menu items!

You've heard of Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin in B4 of Ion Orchard? Lucky you, because it took me a whole 8 years since its setup in 2009 to chance upon its existence. The relentless search for Singapore's best Tonkatsu never once leading me to the food basement of this human-overrun commonplace. Fortunately for me, this bane was recently overhauled when a photo assignment brought such unexpected pleasures to my senses, after my first apprehensive bite of the Katsu sandwich. A third generation breaded pork cutlet recipe sandwiched between white bread is a no-brainer winner. This idea spawned by Nobukatsu-san during World War I when faced with the dire situation of severe rice shortage - nothing short of genius and we're glad it's a staple on the menu.

Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin remains steadfast to its roots, the menu not deviating far from it's superstar product, the tonkatsu. However, that is soon to change as the kitchen buzzes with additions to the menu.

Ninja Bowl: Indulge in their NEW brunch nosh

Once again, Ninja Bowl satisfies Singaporeans need for constant innovation in the brunch fare department with the addition of 5 new dishes to it's menu. Was I blown away? Not really, the 'ingenuity' fostered by a clever permutation and combination technique of it's long time signatures such as the Gyu and Tama as well as the Ebisu (read here). Still, I waxed lyrical after my meal since every dish presented me a refreshing facade. The Japanese flair represented, more forthright than before.

[NEW] Philly Shack: Home to the Philadelphia Cheesesteak

It's been awhile folks, and I apologise for my absence. Here to make up for me playing hooky, I'm going to tell you about this new joint in the Clarke Quay precinct that I've had the privilege of suffering the weight of its entire menu. (Then again, this only came to mind whilst preparing to head out to Zouk's Official Opening Party over the weekend, so that's a blessing in disguise!)

Philly Shack arose when the owners of now defunct Butchers Club decided to take matters in their own hands and do a spin-off on their own concept. As a result, a new fast food joint, Philly Shack was born. Touting the Philly Cheesesteak as it's MVP, the rest of the menu highlights the regular American fast food joint fare, everything from Buffalo Wings, Onion rings to Burgers and Boozy milkshakes. Making it the ideal pit stop for a hunger-pang-busting lunch, chillax after-work spot to convene over drinks or a late-night closer when one is intoxicated.

Inaniwa Yosuke x Machida Shoten Collaboration Menu: Think I just found my favourite Udon

I've heard word about this place even before I set foot in the joint. And that my friends, is the hallmark of a business's success, the power of the word-of-mouth. Thanks to my side-line activities *ahem*, I had the privilege to try out Inaniwa Yosuke's infamous udon.

We started off with the largest set in the house - The Tempura and Ajikurabe Set ($32) which comes with Tempura, tsuke udon with both syoyu and GomaTare dipping sauces, kake udon, creme caramel and the whole she-bang. For that price, this set is a whopping steal and is sufficient for two peckish diners looking for a quick afternoon fix. Having had an age old history that concerned the Emperor's decree to continue udon production solely for the royal family, you know for sure that you're in for the real deal. The noodles were finer than commercialised renditions with a slippery edge and glistening appearance, the very epitome of Akita craftsmanship and skill in Inaniwa udon making.

I much prefer the Tsuke Udon, the coolness of the strands accentuated when dipped into simply made syoyu sauce with a scatter of scallions and accompanying wasabi.

We were also fortunate to be given the chance to try the Inaniwa Yosuke X Machida Shoten Collaboration dish with the broth single-handedly prepared by the talented folks of the latter establishment also based in Japan Food Town. A rich Tonkotso broth, this is one to leave a pleasant oleaginous finish to your meal, the clever infusion of yuzu lightening the flavor, balancing out the finesse of the springy udon to the robust but intriguing broth. This is served with Kakuni Tamago, stewed Hokkaido beef yielding to the bite with little resistance while the flavored egg cooked in shoyu injects a high level of comfort. A definite must-have within the short 2 week span of its collaboration.

Tokyo Dashi Maki Tamago ($12)

I think it's not required that I wax any more lyrical about this place. The simple bullet-point listing, substantial evidence enough to prove that Inaniwa is worth a visit anytime. Heed my advice and scoot on over now!

Inaniwa Yosuke

Japan Food Town

Wisma Atria

t: 6262 3279

Operating Hours:

Mon - Fri: 11 30am - 3pm; 5pm - 11pm

Sat - Sun: 11am - 3pm; 5pm - 11pm

SBCD Korean Tofu House: Tofu to lust after

All it took was the word 'uplifting' on the press release to reel me in; that accompanied by depressing 3 days worth of non-stop showers. I was sold on the concept that anything hot and steamy could eventually work as a therapy. And it did.

SBCD Korean Tofu House is the latest addition to the CBD dining, stowed away in the basement of the new Tanjong Pagar Centre (a bright establishment and latest extension of the Tanjong Pagar MRT station). Here you'll find a full fledged menu of Korean comfort food

[POP-UP] WOLF X Bird Bird: The Burger Breakdown

Lest we forget, a good burger is a thing of beauty. Oneness in the patty fat-to-meat ratio and sauces knitting all into a 'perfect burger'. It's satisfying, messy manifestation of all things umami: beef, melted cheese and tomatoes, all ready to be augmented by additions such as bacon, relish, slaw... there are a few things culinary that can be relied on to do their job as effectively. Much less in a tidy package. But hey, it's personal, a burger does the job of lifting the spirits for me, it might not for you, but hold on to your horses as I reveal one of the newest burger kids on the 'Ann Siang Road' block. Get your paper towels ready.

Spuds and Aprons: Food that tugs on your heart strings

"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.

SUN with MOON explores Kyushu Japan!

SUN with MOON is a cosy, intimate restaurant and cafe nestled on the third floor of Wheelock Place. Starting this September, they are launching On the Food Trail "Kyushu!", the ninth edition of a gastronomic journey to the southernmost Japanese island with a valued reputation for its natural wonders, hot springs, and of course, amazing food. Working together with Fukoka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, SUN with MOON is sourcing for the freshest, most exceptional ingredients and bringing the distinctive flavours of Kyushu to you.

[NEW MENU] Sumire Yakitori House: More than just the usual Yakitori

Sumire Yakitori House was first introduced to me as the chicken specialist tbh, that sent a shiver down my spine - was it a slaughterhouse? Apparently not as it is backed by a rich history and firm footing in Japan itself where it already has over 50 outlets located around the country. Yakitori items are the name of the game here, the intimating stacked menu of grilled sticks throwing me off just a little. But I was here for the new menu - featured wholesome dishes and lunch sets that gets customers more bang for their buck.

At Sumire, you get a taste of Japanese restraint amidst breezy casual settings (during the day) that transits into the usual more stark and formal becomings at night fall. Booth seating ensure privacy settings are kept in check and do I even need to mention the small of flame-licked fats that float out from the kitchen occasionally?

Barrio by MexOut: Mexican in da' hood!

If you frequent Somerset MRT as much I do, you would probably notice the newest fairy-light lit venture that has occupied quite a generous space on the ground floor of 313@Somerset. Yes, the space is quite a looker! Built with the theme of a Mexican beer garden in mind, it's thoroughly convincing complete with fresh fun colors splashed across the walls and neo-Aztec patterns subliminally infused into the menu. The idea is flawless and the cool unfettered spirit of the place beckons passer-bys to explore its contained yet airy space.

Compared to its predecessor outlet, Mexout, which oozes urban contemporary vibes with its black-washed interiors and quirky fast-food like operations (read my review here); Barrio by Mex Out boosts a more standard ordering process and therefore a more extensive menu with more snacks and its latest delve into Tortas, or otherwise known as, Mexican burgers.

Oxwell and Co presents The Ladies Dining Society: seasonal 3-course menu for $50++

Remember the bohemian space, like a dingy pub gone rogue that once churned out the darnedest Christmas menu I've ever laid eyes on? (read about it here) They've returned with an equally lunatic deal for the satisfaction of the fairer sex whilst their other half does the usual pub-crawl to placate the dog-tired humpday spirit.

Every Wednesday from 8th June 2016 onwards, ladies get to enjoy a glass of Perrier Jouet champagne followed by an exclusive three-course dinner menu specially crafted by the deft Head Chef Nick Scorpion, finished with a chaser of sweet nothings in the form of a dessert cocktail pairing. Read, cocktail and dessert inclusive, for a tight package of just $50++. OH...Oxwell and Co; you've got other business owners wagging their droopy tails in bewilderment. But then again, being on the receiving end, you'll come to realise that this deal is indisputably worthwhile.

Chir Chir introduces a Honey Butter Chicken and other new dishes

I'll find any excuse to treat myself. Actually, my whole system of self-adulting is based on an intricate balance of tasks and rewards to keep myself happy and motivated. I clock in 6 miles, I get pistachio gelato. I pay a bill, I get a cocktail (and a significantly lighter wallet). I make it to the weekend, I go down to Chir Chir and get myself that very exciting looking pile of Honey Butter Chicken. This very deliberate systems that involved foot rubs from the mister, exotic beers and the occasional burger; works, and it gets the job done.

Since we've all made it to the weekend, I'm absolutely certain that we're all due for a treat ourselves. Here are some new dishes from the Chir Chir's new menu from me to you.

Torimaru @ Ramen Champion: the Next Better Player?

Torimaru is the newest contender at Ramen Champion, and if the ramen I tasted yesterday is anything to go by, the reigning six brands ought to be worried indeed!

Torimaru is bringing a rather unique take on ramen, unlike what we're used to having here in Singapore. Instead of the traditional Tonkotsu soup made from pork bones. Head Chef Takano Koji is introducing Tori Paitan, a broth made from five different parts of chicken and five different kinds of vegetables.

When asked about the inspiration behind his dishes, Chef Koji explains that Tori Paitan is all the rage in Japan now, and he simply adapted it by creating his own original noodles to batch match the broth. His demeanour betrayed nothing but humility despite the fact that he experimented with over 10kinds of noodles and personally consulted suppliers before finally producing this splendid rendition that (I find) he has every right to be proud of.

Ninja Bowl: All the right moves

Sitting around awaiting news can be agonising sometimes. At times when I encounter predicaments like these, my mind instantly drifts to an encyclopedia reflection of comfort food types such as the one I'm about to mention.

Ninja bowls takes over Department of Caffeine's plush albeit smokin' hot pad along Duxton Road. Just over a month old, the minimalist cafe looks to woo the same target audience of trend chasers who, over the year have seen a graduation of palette from waffle-depraved souls to atas rice bowl hunters. The region, seemingly reaching a saturation of similar concepts such as May May and Grain Traders, still receiving a respectable traction with busy executives looking to squeeze in a bit of nutrition during short lunch hours.

Speaking for myself, I'm not usually such a go-getter for rice bowls. The mere fact that I've not tried neither of the two above-mentioned establishments proving that claim firmly. So my recent invitation to suss out Ninja bowl and their infamous donburis really cause me offguard (ninja pun).

Decker Barbecue: Low and Slow

Let's begin by putting on the table what Decker Barbecue is and isn't. A date night place? NO, unless you're a no-frills, carnivorous girl like me; it wouldn't be such a brilliant idea lugging your first date to this place. For weight-watchers? HELL NO, the intimidating menu showcasing various meat cuts, all cooked low and slow to guarantee a satisfactory fat maintenance will leave you with heart palpitations all night. And vegetarians, you've already been warned, not unless you're going to go the mile and call fries a vegetable; then you've been warned.

Cook & Brew: [NEW MENU] spearheaded by a throng of Burgers

Picture this, you get set up on a date by your best friend with the captain of the school football team. Sure, he's got dreamy eyes and features so sharp that they could easily saw through the thickest hunk of steak, hence the extra preparation effort. Heels, check! Poofed up hair on hairspray hyper drive, check!, and you even dragged out the most decent set of knickers you have from your wardrobe. Kudos for that. He arrives at the door with a bunch of flowers and whisks you away in mist of charm, raising the bar even higher with an idyllic choice of a dinner venue, one that offers bedazzling views of the cityscape at dusk. However, as the meal unravels, you realize that beneath the chiseled good looks, is an empty vessel, one that was dull and lacklustre beneath its misleadingly glamorous facade. - my experience at Cook and Brew can be summed up in the same manner.

Launching a new menu helmed by a selection of mouthwatering gourmet burgers, the craft beer watering hole located at the Westin Singapore's speciality gastro-bar at Level 33 sets to sweep diners off their feet, with a combination attack of killer views and American comfort food.

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