When I arrived at Yomoda Soba on a Sunday for lunch, the long queue surprised me. I didn’t know that Soba is a popular choice among Singaporean. My thought on the popularity for Japanese noodles ranked first for Ramen, then Udon, and lastly Soba. Maybe it is due to its location since it is along the entrance.

The restaurant is relatively small though it may not be smallest restaurant in Japan Food Town.

At Yomoda Soba, the good news is beside the specialty Soba offered, there are side dishes and a few Donburi available for selection.

I went for the Tempura Seiro Soba. This is a Cold Soba with Soya dipping sauce. The Seiro was lightly salty and with the leek and wasabi added, it accentuated the flavours.

Soba was al dente though I believe some may find it a little hard. Since it is made of buckwheat, it isn’t as smooth as one would prefer. But it has a light fragrance.

Though the tempura was with a thicker batter as compared to some but at the very least it is still considerably light and the oil didn’t soak in the batter.

Overall, the serving isn’t huge since I managed to gorge down the entire portion.

NAHMJ Verdict

I enjoyed the Tempura Seiro Soba and I want to try the Hot Soup Soba.

Yomoda Soba

435 Orchard Road, #04-53, Wisma Atria, Singapore 238877
Tel: +65 6262 3467

Website: http://www.yomoda-soba.com/en/

Opening Hours

Daily

Getting There

By MRT:

• North South line – Orchard station

By Bus:

• Tang Plaza along Orchard Road   36, 77, 124, 128, 143, 162, 162M, 167, 171, 174, 174e, 190, 518, 700, 700A

• Lucky Plaza along Orchard Road   7, 14, 14e, 16, 65, 106, 111, 123, 175, 502

• Orchard Station along Orchard Turn   14e, 124, 128, 143, 162, 162M, 167, 190, 700, 700A

• Opposite Orchard Station along Orchard Boulevard   7, 14, 16, 36, 65, 77, 106, 111, 123, 174, 174e, 175

Rating: 7.5/10

The post Yomoda Soba In Japan Food Town – Orchard, Singapore appeared first on NAHMJ.

Though we saw lots of post of Garden Picks on Instagram and also online advertisement, this is our first time trying out 6 of their products.

BBQ Rice Crisps

Among the six we tried, our favourite item is the BBQ Rice Crisps. This product is from China with each bag weighing at 120g. They are high in fibre and low in calories hence this is a healthier option compared to deep fried chips.

Each piece is lightly sweetish with rice fragrance. A pity not all are evenly coated with the flavour. Some more, some less.

Chilli Corn Nuts

Our next fave product comes from the USA, the Chilli Corn Nuts. Our first impression of these corn nuts were hard. But as we chewed more, we find ourselves falling in love with these kernels.

These are a little citrusy and lightly spice. We find them very addictive. Each bag contains 120g worth of corns.

Honey Mustard Soya Crisps

Honey Mustard Soya Crisps tasted weird at first as the taste profile is crispy, sourish, sweet and savoury. Almost all the available taste is in this snack. But after a few more strips, we enjoy the flavour. We think it may be an acquired taste.

The Honey Mustard Soya Crisps is a product of Australia, using only Australian-grown Genetic Modifed (GM)-Free soya beans for these lovely snacks. Per bag weighs 120g.

Salted Caramel Peanuts

Though on the label it indicated as Salted Caramel Peanuts, these are legumes instead. Salted caramel fans might enjoy this product.

These legumes are packed with monounsaturated fats (healthy fats for the hearts). This is another product from Australia. Each pack is 170g.

Dry-Roasted Green Soybeans (Edamame)

Protien packed Dry-Roasted Green Soybeans with each bag at 220g. The origin of the product is China.

I am neutral to the Green Soybeans. At least, the green soybeans are lightly salted which I enjoy.

Crispy Lotus Seeds

The Crispy Lotus Seeds is the top seller at Garden Picks. It is in its natural flavour. No additional flavouring added as such this is the healthiest snacks among the 6 selections. Crispy lotus seed is from Vietnam, per pack is at 60g.

Personally, this is my least favourite snack as I am not a lotus seed fan. Moreover, I find it bland.

Price

Garden Picks is retailing 3 packs for $10. Alternatively, bulk order is available too, but the prices differ from product to product.

Delivery is free for order $50 and above. Otherwise, $8 delivery charge applies. For more ordering information, click here.

NAHMJ Verdict

Some items at Garden Picks are more enjoyable than others. We found our favourite products and our least fancy one too. It is all about preference here, we supposed.

What we like about each pack is the clear label of the ingredients, origin and expiry date. But nutrition label is missing.

In a nutshell, Garden Picks provides a good range of snacks for consumers to choose from, great for snacking or as gifts.

Garden Picks

8A Admiralty Street #06-05, FoodXChange@Admiralty, Singapore 757437
Tel: +65 6659 4859

Website: http://www.gardenpicks.com.sg/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/gardenpicks/?fref=ts

Order via: http://www.gardenpicks.com.sg/index.php/cPath/36_1

Rating: 7/10

The post Wholesome Snacks Selections From Garden Picks appeared first on NAHMJ.

Street 50 Singapore Food Story

Live station at buffet is becoming a norm. As such Street 50 set up 3 live stations at the Al fresco dinning area in addition to the usual indoor buffet table.

Live Station

There are a total of 3 live stations at the Street 50 Singapore Food Story.

First is the BBQ, grilling the freshest seafood and meat produce sourced by the restaurant. Diners get to enjoy prawns, squid, chicken, beef as well as corns.

The second station is the Street 50 Signature Laksa. Oh my! The gravy was extremely fragrant. Even though I am not a Laksa fan, I enjoyed their Laksa. Make sure you have a bowl to yourself.

The last live station offers the Chicken Shawarma cum Crepe. The Chicken Shawarma takes a local spin with the Chinese BBQ marinate.

Indoor Buffet Stations

Moving to the indoor buffet stations. First and foremost, something unique to the Street 50 Singapore Food Story Weekend Lunch Buffet is the availability of Indian Rojak. This was never seen in other local buffet spread.

Alternatively, the Chinese Rojak is also available. It seems the Chinese Rojak is a very popular station and we are seeing it in all our recent buffet treat.

One of the offering Street 50 is very proud of is the Chinese Cold Platter which is served at Chinese Wedding Dinner.

If you love curry, you are in for the treat. Street 50 Singapore Food Story Weekend Lunch Buffet is serving Fish Curry, Butter Chicken and Beef Rendang. Diners could have the curry with either rice or prata.

When we talk about local fare, how could we miss out Satay. At this weekend lunch buffet, the restaurant offers both the Chicken Satay and Mutton Satay.

Another highlight at this weekend lunch buffet is the performance of pulling tea and coffee. This is so localicious. Indeed, it is a great representative to our Singapore food culture. After the performance, diners can enjoy both the Teh Tarik and Kopi Tarik.

Since it is a buffet, varieties is the key. Hence diners could find an array of fresh seafood and desserts. As this is a local fare buffet, assortment of Nonya Kueh is lined on the buffet table too.

Price And Validity

The Street 50 Singapore Food Story Weekend Lunch Buffet is at $42++ per person. And it is only available on Saturday and Sunday for lunch. The buffet will launch on 9 August 2016.

NAHMJ Verdict

Street 50 Singapore Food Story Weekend Lunch Buffet offers a good selection of local delights. Moreover, it is with some unusual selection that are not usually seen in local fare buffet. Overall, there are are hits and misses as always.

Street 50 Singapore Food Story Weekend Lunch Buffet

50 Telok Blangah Road, Bay Hotel, Singapore 098828
Tel: +65 6818 6681

Website: http://www.bayhotelsingapore.com/dining/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/Street50sg/?fref=ts

Opening Hours

Daily 0600 to 0300

Getting There

By MRT:

• Circle line & Northeast Line, HarbourFront Station

By Bus:

• alight at or opposite Vivocity   10, 30, 30e, 57, 61, 65, 80, 97, 97e, 100, 131, 143, 145, 166, 197, 855, RWS8

Rating: 7/10

The post Street 50 Singapore Food Story New Weekend Lunch Buffet – Bay Hotel Singapore appeared first on NAHMJ.

We will go round Japan Town introducing all 16 restaurants in ascending order of unit number. The first is Bonta Bonta and we will go clockwise. To locate Bonta Bonta, face the entrance of Japan Town, it is on your left.

Bonta Bonta

Unit 04-39
Tel: +65 6262 3207

Opening Hours:  Daily

At Bonta Bonta, they are serving Onigiri. Bonta Bonta’s rice is first specially selected by a rice sommelier, and processed to the highest standards to qualify as Kinmemai (low-calorie brown rice with high nutritional values). Beside the well aclaimed Onigiri, Gonzen bowl is also available at Bonta Bonta.

Machida-Shoten

Unit 04-40
Tel: +65 6262 3214 / 8419 3444

Opening Hours:  Daily  1100 to 1500, 1800 to 2100

FB: https://www.facebook.com/Machida.Shoten.SG/

Ramen is Machida-Shoten specialty.  The noodles that are cooked to your texture preference in either tonkotsu or soya sauce mix broth.

Shabu Shabu Tajimaya

Unit 04-41
Tel: +65 6262 3240

Opening Hours:  Daily 1100 to 1500, 1800 to 2300

At Shabu Shabu Tajimaya, diners could opt for either Shabu Shabu or Sukiyaki buffet with a fixed amount of meat. First decide whether one prefer Shabu Shabu or Sukiyaki. Next decide on the set. Lastly choose your prefer Dashi for Shabu Shabu.

Tempura Tsukiji Tenka

Unit 04-42
Tel: +65 6262 3245 6

Opening Hours:  Daily  1130 to 2200

FB: https://www.facebook.com/Tempura-Tsukiji-Tenka-1594348570880319/?fref=ts

At Tempura Tsukiji Tenka, there are 4 Tempura Donburi Set. Tendon Set ($19.80), Sea Eel Tendon Set ($26.80), Tenka Special Tendon Set and finally the Seasonal Vegetable Tendon Set ($19.80). Each set comprises of appetizer, pickles, salad, miso soup and dessert.

Tsukiji Sushi Takewaka

Unit 04-43
Tel: +65 262 3247

Opening Hours:  Daily  1100 to 1500 (Last, 1730 to 2200 (Last order 2100)

Tsukiji Sushi Takewaka specialises in Edo-mae Sushi and Chirashi Don. They are the largest seafood wholesaler in the world and have been around for almost 30 years.

At the restaurant in Singapore, they serve a different lunch and dinner menu. The lunch set is very affordable ranging from $14.40 to $25.30. Each set comes with Miso Soup, Chawamushi and daily dessert.

Nabe Seizan

Unit 04-44
Tel: +65 6262 3259

Opening Hours:  Daily

Nabe Seizan is the only restaurant among the 16 that bagged a 2 stars Michelin award back in Japan. With Michelin landed in Singapore, the nabe in the restaurant may be worth trying out for.

Inaniwa Yosuke

Unit 04-45
Tel: +65 6262 3279

Opening Hours:  Daily  1130 to 2200

Inaniwa Yosuke serves only one item, Udon, in variation. Its Udon is handmade and has 150 years of tradition. The Udon are served in chill with 2 different tare (sauce) or hot in various soup based.  Read more …

Osaka Kitchen 

Unit 04-46
Tel: +65 6262 3271

Opening Hours:  Daily  1700 to 2230

Osaka Kitchen is a Teppanyaki restaurant that offers only dinner to diners with Japan’s finest Wagyu beef. Yakisoba is another popular dish which will be available on the menu that compliments Teppanyaki cuisine

Yakiniku Heijoen

Unit 04-47
Tel: +65 6262 3294

Opening Hours:  Daily

Yakiniku Heijoen is the beef connoisseurs offering consistent high quality beef throughout the year. Watch out for they are on their way to Japan Food Town.

Tonkatsu Anzu

Unit 04-48
Tel: +65 6262 3408

Opening Hours:  Daily

Pairing fresh Kyushu produce with their signature deep fried Black Pork; offering only the finest Tonkatsu to diners.

Bar Nippon

Unit 04-49
Tel: +65 6262 3425

Opening Hours:  Daily

Bar Nippon offers beers, Sake and some non-alcoholic drinks. A great place to chill-out with friends.

Sabar 

Unit 04-50
Tel: +65 6262 3453

Opening Hours:  Daily  1138 to 1438,

Sabar specialises in mackerel cuisine. As 38 represents Saba, diners would notice their interesting opening hours. Starting and ending at 38 minutes of the hours.

Hokkaido Izakaya

Unit 04-51
Tel: +65 6262 3461

Opening Hours:  Daily

Hokkaido Izakaya serves the best of Hokkaido’s produce from the towns of Yakumo, Akkeshi, Furano and Kamishihoro.

Dassai Bar

Unit 04-52
Tel: +65 6262 3465

Opening Hours:  Daily

Sake and Sake-based cocktails are available at this first Dassai Popup outside Japan.

Yomoda Soba

Unit 04-53
Tel: +65 6262 3467

Opening Hours:  Daily

Soba is the specialty at this restaurant, serving both cold and hot soba. The good news is beside its specialty, expect to find a few Donburi and a good number of side dishes at Yomoda Soba.

Rang Rang Shokudo 

Unit 04-54
Tel: +65 6262 3504

Opening Hours:  Daily

Last but not least is Rang Mang Shokudo at the Japan Food Town. This restaurant specialises in artisan fried chicken. The chicken are marinated in buttermilk for 6 hours. Next, the marinated chicken are fried at least twice. With such a meticulous process, the fried chicken tasted better than usual.

NAHMJ Verdict

With 16 well established F&B restaurants flew in from Japan to the Japan Food Town, certainly it is a great addition to the competitive F&B scene in Singapore. We have more reason to rejoice in the great delish food offered. And the best part of Japan Food Town is that they are showcasing only the best and each having a different theme and speciality.

Japan Food Town

435 Orchard Road, Level 4, Wisma Atria, Singapore 238877
Tel: +65 66946535

Website: http://www.japanfoodtown.sg/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/japanfoodtown/?fref=ts

Opening Hours

Daily  1100 to 2300

Getting There

By MRT:

• North South line – Orchard station

By Bus:

• Tang Plaza along Orchard Road   36, 77, 124, 128, 143, 162, 162M, 167, 171, 174, 174e, 190, 518, 700, 700A

• Lucky Plaza along Orchard Road   7, 14, 14e, 16, 65, 106, 111, 123, 175, 502

• Orchard Station along Orchard Turn   14e, 124, 128, 143, 162, 162M, 167, 190, 700, 700A

• Opposite Orchard Station along Orchard Boulevard   7, 14, 16, 36, 65, 77, 106, 111, 123, 174, 174e, 175

The post Japan Food Town Now At Wisma Atria – Orchard, Singapore appeared first on NAHMJ.

We were at the restaurant on Wednesday as such we enjoyed the Wednesday’s Lobster Rock ‘n’ Roll of J65 Eat Through The Week Promotion. Before we dived into the Wednesday buffet, take a look at the highlights of other days.

From Crab! It’s Monday…

J65 Eat Through The Week starts with From Crab! It’s Monday… Henceforth diners could enjoy Crab done in different ways such as Salted Egg Crab, Black Pepper Crab and Homemade Crab Popiah.

We sample the Pepper Crab and Chilli Crab. The taste of both were excellent except that we find the size of the crab a little too small.

Tuesday’s Beef Yourself Up!

Carnivores, Tuesday is your day. J65 Eat Through The Week offers Tuesday’s Beef Yourself Up! Therefore, diners will find a beefy affair at J65 Restaurant buffet table.

Some of the highlights include the Roast Rib Eye with Condiments, Authentic Sup Ekor and Beef Rendang Tok. In addition, diners could ‘Beer’ Yourself Up with Tiger Beer Draft for just SGD5++

Wednesday’s Lobster Rock ‘n’ Roll

Finally it is mid week, time to reward ourselves with some delicacy. Hence, J65 restaurants prepared Wednesday’s Lobster Rock ‘n’ Roll. The most exciting day in the J65 Eat Through The Week Promotion.

We tried out the Wednesday’s Lobster Rock ‘n’ Roll buffet, in short, we love it.

As per Wednesday night tradition, Ladies enjoy the first sampler Sangria for free and subsequently, one-for-one Sangria at $14++ the whole night long.

Start the Wednesday’s Lobster Rock ‘n’ Roll with Lobster Bisque and the tantalizing Lobster Salad.

Moved to Steamed Lobster and Lobster with Dried Chilli. If these still don’t satisfy your appetite for lobster, pick up some Lobster Thermidor and Lobster Roll.

Diners could even find lobster in the Lobster Mixed Vegetables with Oyster Sauce.

Lastly for some local flavours, hop over to the Live Station for the Lobster Laksa to spice the meal up.

Other Spread

Wednesday’s Lobster Rock ‘n’ Roll buffet is not limited to lobster only. There are other spread at the buffet table.

Salad, DIY Rojak add some green to the diet.

If only having lobster is broing, add varieties with prawn, mussel and crab.

Enjoy some local fare such as Kueh Pie Tee and Popiah

Lastly dessert, wide delish selection from the western pastries to Nonya Kueh. Our favourite was the Durian Pengat.

Thursday’s His Majesty the King Prawn

The theme for Thursdays at the J65 Eat Through The Week is Thursday’s His Majesty the King Prawn.

Diners could find items such as Baked Sea Salt King Prawns, Claypot Live Prawns in Herbal Broth and Penang Prawn Mee.

Hooked! Seafood on Friday and Saturday

TGIF! Finally weekend is in sight. Time to let down the hair and indulgent hence J65 Eat Through The Week offers Hooked! Seafood on Friday and Saturday.

The spread include Fin de Claire oysters, lobsters, crabs, prawns, scallops and many more.

Sunday’s Let’s Go Local

End the week with Sunday’s Let’s Go Local. Lamb Briyani, Chef’s Signature Popiah, Fried Oyster Omelette and Teochew Braised Duck are some of the highlights at the Sunday buffet.

Price

The J65 Eat Through The Week promotions are available for dinner from 6pm to 9.30pm from Sunday to Thursday and 6pm till 10pm on Friday and Saturday. It is priced at $55++ per person (Sunday to Thursday) or $60++ per person (Friday to Saturday).

J65 is located at Level 1 of Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore.

NAHMJ Verdict

NAHMJ like the idea of J65 Eat Through The Week having a different theme each day of the week providing diners with refreshing choices daily.

J65 Eat Through The Week

1A Cuscaden Rd, Singapore 249716
Tel: +65 6831 4374

Website: https://www.hoteljen.com/singapore/tanglin/taste/restaurants/j65/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/HotelJenTanglinSingapore/?fref=ts

Opening Hours

Monday – Thursday  1800 to 2130

Getting There

By Bus:

• The Regent Singapore along Tomlinson Road   36

• Opp Hotel Jen Tanglin along Grange Road   7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 111, 123, 132, 174, 174e

• After Cuscaden Road along Grange Road   75

• After Tomlinson Road along Tanglin Road   7, 77, 105, 106, 111, 123, 132, 174, 174e

By MRT:

• North South line – Orchard station

It will take a 15 to 20 minutes walk from Orchard MRT station. Alternatively, take a bus from the bus stop opp Orchard Station along Orchard Boulevard 7, 36, 77, 106, 111, 123, 174, 174e.

Rating: 8/10

*Disclaimer: This is a media invite

The post J65 Eat Through The Week – Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore appeared first on NAHMJ.

Since Kooks Creamery started, it has been making waves and lots of raving about it too. As usual, though we love trying out new products, but we are skeptical too as it might turn out as over-rated too. In addition, with so much of good reviews, our expectation increases too.

With glass panel surrounding the corner shop, we could see the interior from outside easily. With the contrast from other shop, except The Plain Jane, along the stretch, without looking at the signage, we know we were at the correct unit. Kooks Creamery has that typical cafe vibes.

At Kooks Creamery, besides offering 18 ice cream flavours daily, their must try is the Molten Lava Cookies with Ice Cream. There are 2 flavours which comes as a set. First is the Matcha flavour which we were absolutely keen to savour. Hence we got the Matcha Lava Set ($8.50) with Matcha Ice Cream too. We are keen to try pairing the Pistachio with Match Lava Cookies at our next visit.

Pour the scoop of ice cream over the cookies top, immediately, watch the lava flow. Do remember to standby your video to capture the moment. Otherwise, you will miss this great opportunity for your insta-video post.

Next is the Kooks Signature Lava Set ($8.50). This has chocolate as the lava in the cookies. Our choice of ice cream was Earl Grey. For chocolate fan, this is the must order as the chocolate is very rich. We felt Earl Grey and Chocolate pair well.

In our opinion, it was smart of Kooks Creamery to add the Cornflakes to provide an crunchy texture to the dish.

NAHMJ Verdict

NAHMJ approves of Kooks Creamery. We were delighted to find that we like all the flavours we sampled. Don’t miss out on the Molten Lava Set. We hope Kooks Creamery will introduce more flavours for the Molten Lava soon.

Kooks Creamery

Blk 211 Serangoon Avenue 4 #01-02, Singapore 550211
Tel: +65

FB: https://www.facebook.com/kooks.creamery/

Opening Hours

Sunday, Tuesday – Thursday  1200 to 2200; Friday – Saturday  1200 to 2300; Closed on Mondays

Getting There

By Bus:

• alight at or opp Serangoon Sports Complex along Yio Chu Kang Link   43, 70, 70M, 76, 103, 109, 147, 156, 317

• alight opp Blk 257 or at Blk 257A along Boundary Road   22, 24, 53, 109, 156, 315, 853

By MRT:

• Circle or North East line – Serangoon station

Rating: 7.5/10

The post Kooks Creamery, Molten Lava Cookies – Serangoon, Singapore appeared first on NAHMJ.

From the owner to the facade and then to the food, the same theme presented throughout Nit And Grit, that is humble. Despite the unassuming presentation and nothing worthy for the square, if you looked beyond the aesthetics, you find treasures in Nit and Grit. And you would agree that it is a hidden gem that is akin to the raw diamond that is waiting to be unearthed.

Before we introduce you to their delicious waffle, we take a look at the drinks offered by Nit And Grit. Over here, they offer a very comprehensive drinks list; ranging from all sort of Tea to Chocolate, Milo, Cookies & Cream and Coffee.

We tried the 3 Special Earl Grey ($3.50) and Milo Rocher ($4.90). The former is a drink consisting of a home-made pudding which the duo made daily from scratch. We love such dedication to the craft shown by their willingness to offer home-made items. In it, beside the pudding, there are grass jelly and pearls.

The latter, Milo Rocher has a vanilla ice cream topped in a Milo and Rocher blend. Hence, you will find nut bites in the drink. In general, the drinks are lightly flavoured cum lightly sweetened.

Moving on to the exciting item at Nit And Grit, it is their waffles. We are now big fan of their crispy waffle.

Buttermilk Hotdog Scrambled Eggs with Maple Syrup Waffle ($3.50) was the savoury waffle we tried. It may look unassuming to many but we assure you that the wallet friendly pricing waffle is extremely delish. Firstly, outer crisp with buttermilk fragrance savoured. Moreover, the maple syrup augmented the taste experience. With the hotdog on the waffle, these added a savoury hint. In addition, the must mention scramble egg was soft and fluffy. We completely didn’t expect such high standard coming from this modest takeaway outlet.

For the sweet tooth who loves both nutella and banana will turn to the Buttermilk Nutella Banana Waffle ($2.50). The other highly recommend waffle by Joy is the Avocado Waffle.

Alternatively, one could also opt for the classic Buttermilk Waffle with Ice Cream.

Lastly, one could also enjoy the scoop of ice cream in a delightful cone. We had the Chendol Ice Cream ($2.50) which is the premium flavour.

Promotion

Quote @nahmj for a Combo at only $4 which includes a Large Ice Blend (no toppings) and a Buttermilk Hotdog Cheese Waffle. Promotion ends on 14 August 2016.

NAHMJ Verdict

Most of all, we love the sincere and humble approach of Nit And Grit. At our short duration at Nit And Grit, we witness how the pair serves their customers with a heart as they remember all the regular orders of their customer. We were in awe and we like this.

And we could attest to the taste of Nit And Grit crispy waffles. Nothing short of thumb ups. If you love crispy waffle, this is the must go to place for your waffle fix!

Nit And Grit

21 Hougang Street 51 #01-38 Hougang Green Shopping Mall, Singapore 538719

FB: https://www.facebook.com/NitnGrit/?fref=ts

Opening Hours

Monday, Wednesday – Friday  1130 to 2100; Saturday – Sunday  1000 to 2100; Closed on Tuesdays

Getting There

By MRT:

• north-east line – Buangkok

By Bus:

• Opp Hougang Green Shopping Mall along Hougang Street 51   325

• At Hougang Green Shopping Mall along Hougang Street 51   101, 325

Rating: 8/10

The post Nit And Grit, Wallet Friendly And Delish Waffle – Hougang, Singapore appeared first on NAHMJ.

Chef Antonio Oviedo was under the tutelage of 2 world’s best chef who’s restaurant were Michelin stars awarded. With such an impressive credentials, we hold high expectation and are thrill to try out the dishes presented by UNA At One Rochester again.

For those who do not know UNA At One Rochester, they are at the same location since April 2014. Both the Spanish tapas, the popular choice at Spanish restaurant and the parrilla (Spanish for ‘grill’) that is under rated by many, were offered under the same roof.

Tapas

We commenced our dinner with a handful of Tapas. First on the table were both the Encurtidos ($10) and Croquetas De Jamon Iberico, 4 pc ($14). Encurtidos is a dish of olives and peppers which most didn’t enjoy. Somehow, olives are like acquired taste. Either you like it or you don’t.

The creamy interior with Ibericao Ham coupled with crispy exterior is the Croquetas De Jamon Iberico ($14). This is the crowd-pleaser. These tasted better than our first attempt last year.

Gambas Al Ajillo ($22) is a dish of fresh tiger prawns sauteed in olive oil, garlic, chilli and parsley. Though it was a flavourful and delish dish, it didn’t wow us.

Octopus is a common dish in Spanish restaurant. As such we have the Pulpo A la Parrilla Con Papas Arrugadas Y Mojo ($32). The coriander and paprika sauce augmented the smoky grilled octopus. Baby potatoes and some purple sweet potatoes were on the plate too.

Most diners of the night tried the Fideua De Calamares ($20) for their first time and were mesmerized by this uncommonly seen dish. We only know of UNA offering Spanish noodle paella dish in Singapore.

We were astonished that both the Ensalada De Verano ($24) and Ensalada Cesar ($26) were approved by the carnivores at our table.

Mains Tapas And Grills

This round we managed to try a grill. We regretted for not ordering any at our first visit. The grill is too good to be miss.

This is especially true for the Pluma Iberica ($38). Two thumbs up from all diners at the table. The grilled pork was tender and melt in the mouth. The lightly char on the meat intensified the flavour.

One other highly recommended grilled is the Wagyu A La Parrilla ($50) which we missed it this round.

Paella

In the revamped menu, 3 items were still seen on their Paella section. But a pity, UNA at One Rochester has removed the Spanish noodle paella from this section. In fact, we felt the noodle was much better than the rice. Now, this section has only rice. UNA still provides them in 2 sizes, small and large. We tried 2 out of 3 Paella.

First was the Paella De Chorizo Y Habitas (Small $46/Large $66) which was under-appreciated by the diners of the night. Some didn’t like the taste of the saffron while others prefer seafood. At NAHMJ, we love this dish. Our only feedback was that the rice was too soggy.

Arroz Negro (Small $52/Large $72) won the heart of almost all the diners. The rice was infused with essence of the seafood. We could savour the aroma. However, we didn’t vote for it as we can’t help but compared it with the Fideua De Calamares that we tried earlier. As the latter was far too outstanding, the Arroz Negro was pale to comparison.

Somehow the Paella is still on the salty spectrum, however we must say that the generosity of salt was far reduced.

Desserts

The last part of our meal at UNA At One Rochester was dessert. The happiest time of the meal. On UNA At One Rochester desserts menu, there are 5 desserts including the cheese platter. We were honoured to try 3 of them.

First dessert is the Queso Fresco Calabaza Y Membrillo ($14). This dessert consists of fresh cheese mousse with quince and walnuts paired with roasted pumpkin ice cream by its side. We enjoyed the components of this dessert individually. But we couldn’t say for sure that we like it when combining both cheese and ice cream in one mouth. In fact, we advise against doing so as it tasted weird.

Fruta de La Pasion, Fresa Y Aloe Vera ($16) was very much a fruity dessert. We like the refreshing and punching sour flavour from the Passionfruit. We won’t recommend this dish for those who have low sour tolerance level.

Churros Con Chocolate Cafe ($14) was a little disappointing as the churros was soaked heavily in oil. That was unexpected and unfortunate. We love the chocolate and coffee foam dip.

NAHMJ Verdict

When comparing with our first visit, though we notice similarity in dishes, the flavours of dishes were much more distinct and bold. Overall, we enjoyed our dinner at UNA At One Rochester even though there was a hiccup in the Churros. With the same token, there were Wow moments too.

NAHMJ would highly recommend the must order at UNA At One Rochester as Croquetas De Jamon Iberico, Pulpo A la Parrilla Con Papas Arrugadas Y Mojo, Fideua De Calamares and Pluma Iberica. And perhaps Arroz Negro too.

UNA At One Rochester

1 Rochester Drive, Singapore 139212
Tel: +65 6773 0070

Website: http://una.sg/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/1RochesterGroup?fref=ts

Menu: http://una.sg/#!menu

Opening Hours

Monday – Tuesday  1700 to 2300; Wednesday to Fridays  1200 to 1500, 1700 to 2300; Sunday  1100 to 1500 (Last order at 1430)

[For dinners, dinning starts from 1800, last order at 2230]

Happy Hours: Monday – Friday  1700 to 2000

Getting There

By MRT:

• Circle line or East-West line – Buona Vista station

By Bus:

• At or opposite Buona Vista station or after Anglo Chinese Junior College   74, 91, 92 95, 191, 196, 198, 200

Rating: 8/10

The post UNA At One Rochester New Menu By Michelin Starred Trained Chef – Rochester, Singapore appeared first on NAHMJ.

The ambience at Froth new location is as usual casual with similar furniture when they were at Big Hotel. Perhaps due to the flooring, instead of the cemented, there is a modern feeling rather than the industrial feel. We certainly prefer the interior design at Ascotts Raffles Place.

At the first glance of their menu, we felt they have up their level in terms of offering, using lots of premium ingredients such as Foie Gras, Lobsters, Truffle, Lamb and Seafood. We are glad that Froth has retained a handful of signature dishes such as Doritos Crust Winglets and the ever popular Taro Waffle. And we are overjoy to spot the Earl Grey and Salted Caramel Ice Cream which we equally adored at the former Froth.

Kick start the dinner with Hot & Cold Foie Gras ($23.90++) and the Oriental Duck Salad ($16.90++). 2 ways preparation for the Foie Gras dish. One was hot, the usual pan-fried topped on a toasted white bread. While the other is with Kiwi jam encased by the cold foie gras. We thought this is a refreshing idea having it done in 2 ways. Both versions, to each its merit.

The Oriental Duck Salad consists of roasted duck, smoked duck and confit duck in spring roll. It was such a creative dish.

Followed closely was the Mains. First on the table was the Five Spice Wagyu Patty Burger ($34.90++). A dish inspired by the Ngoh Hiang. Hence if one looks closely, one will notice that the patty comprised of chopped chestnut wrapped in beancurd skin. We like the chestnut as it provides an added crunch. If it is less salty, the overall experience would increase. The truffle fries by the side is worth the calories. It is extremely addictive.

SioBak Aglio ($25.90++) is with lightly sweeten and spicy linguine coupled with the Hong Kong styled Roast Pork Belly and a Bak Kwa inspired Honey-glazed bacon. We enjoyed the familar flavours of Hong Kong roast and the spiciness from the pasta. As well as appreciating the flavours from the Honey glazed bacon but it was far too chewy to fully relish it. Maybe by replacing the Honey-glazed bacon with Bak Kwa might also do the trick.

Our least favourite for the night was the Seafood Tom Yum Risotto ($29.90++). We felt the sweetness masked the Tom Yum flavour. The saving grace was the lightly char seafood. As the the char up the level of flavour.

Our favourite dish for the night was the Ponzu Soya Cod Fish ($35.90++). The Ponzu enhances the buttery texture and sweetish freshness of Cod Fish.

Dinner was ended with a sweet positive note. The waffle in the French Toast Waffle ($16.90++) was half-cooked before dipping into a light batter and then deep-fried to fully cook. Plate it with an Earl Grey ice cream and goreng pisang. Finally, drizzled it with condensed milk and sprinkled it with oats.

We enjoyed the dessert. Equally surprise to find that the dessert was not cloying sweet even though condensed milk existed.

NAHMJ Verdict

For now the dishes at Froth does justice for a pleasant meal after all, despite handful of misses. We felt Froth could refine further by doing less for more to achieve a Wow experience for diners. Overall the spirit of Froth and their creativeness to craft Fusion dishes that are entire unique for themselves are commendable. We believe that Froth is worth watching after for what’s next.

Froth

2 Finlayson Green, Level 2, Ascott Raffles Place, Singapore
Tel: +65 6336 1228

Website: http://froth.sg/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/froth.sg/

Opening Hours

Breakfast:  Daily  0700 to 1030 (Serve set menu from $25++ per pax)
Lunch & Dinner:  Daily  1130 to 2200 (Only ala carte menu available. Last order at 2130)

Getting There

By MRT:

• East West line or North South line – Raffles Place station

• Downtown line – Downtown station

By Bus:

•  opp AIA Tower along Robinson Road   10, 10e, 70, 75, 100, 107, 128, 130, 162, 196, 196e, 850E, 868, 951E

•  Prudential Tower along Cecil Street   57, 131, 167, 700, 971E

• The Sail along Marina Boulevard   97, 97e, 106, 133, 400, 402, 513, 982E

• One Raffles Quay along Raffles Quay   10, 10e, 57, 70, 75, 100, 107, 128, 130, 131, 162, 167, 186, 196, 196e, 700, 850E, 951E, 970, 971E

Rating: 7/10

The post Froth Shifted To Ascott Raffles Place – Raffles Place, Singapore appeared first on NAHMJ.

The cafe is housed within a typical two-storey Colonial house which is in black and white. Even though nothing much was done to the interior since it only has mainly cemented floor and whitewashed wall, it is the combination of furniture that magnified the look.

At DW Workshop, it is a cafe cum workshop and at the same time a retail. First let’s explore its cafe. Dinning area are available at both level 1 and 2. Al Fresco dinning is also available.

It seems like a trend for cafe to grow their own herbs and spice. We spotted these at DW Workshop as well.

At DW Workshop, various menu are available at different timing. Wake up to breakfast for scones, muffins, bread and granola. For lunch, expect the trendy and yet healthy Lunch Bowl. The menu rotates daily. Comes dinner, it is all about communal dinning where each dish is designed to share by 2 or more. The communal dinning menu is also at weekend, in addition to the devoted weekend brunch menu.

My first visit to DW Workshop was for lunch. There are various Mains, both hot and cold sides and “rice” to choose from. The Mains choices differ from Monday to Friday.

My choice for Main was the Grilled Beef. It was far too tough for me to chew till I am able to swallow them. I succumbed to the beef eventually.

I got 2 hot sides, the wild mushroom sauteed with persillade and pumpkin puree. I was surprise that they chose to mashed the pumpkin instead of serving it in cube.

My only cold side was the Spinach Goat Cheese Salad and I enjoyed this the most.

Our second visit was on a weekend to try out their Weekend Brunch.  On the menu were 3 savoury dishes, Our Signature Potato Rosti ($21), Crab Salad Croissant ($24) and Ground Beef Plate ($22). The remaining items served were mainly Breakfast food. As such, we selected the first 2 dishes as our brunch choices.

Our Signature Potato Rosti ($21) was pretty decent. A pity we took a little too long to take our perfect photo shot as such it is never delicious when cold.

None of us enjoyed the Crab Salad Croissant ($24) as we didn’t prefer the pungent seafood flavour emitting from the crab. Personally, I didn’t find the crunchy granny smith complemented the crab.

As for drinks, DW Workshop offers a range of cold pressed ($9) such as Summer Watermelon and Strawberry Mint that was refreshing. There are 5 other selections.

Others include concoction such as Summer Hibiscus ($7.50) and sparkling soda, Gingerella Ginger Ale ($6.90).

At DW Workshop, they have either Drip coffee ($9) or Stove Brew ($9) via Moka Pot.

Instead of preparing the drip coffee by hand, it is by the Poursteady Machine. The machine can pour a maximum of 5 cups in tandem and at a shorter time compared making it by the barista.

The workshop will take over the dinning area at level 2 whenever there is classes.

The workshop varied every 3 months. Currently, folding paper jewellery and making concrete lamp workshop are available.

It is also a retail with watches and many other items on sales.

None is cheap.

NAHMJ Verdict

NAHMJ likes the concept of DW Workshop whereby they offer food, retail and handicraft sessions. But since none of which are wallet friendly, we supposed they have a specific target group. Lastly, we thought there are rooms for improvement for their food.

DW Workshop

41 Rochester Drive, Singapore 138582
Tel: +65 6659 0879

Website: http://www.dwworkshop.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/DW.WORKSHOP.PTE.LTD/

Opening Hours

Daily  0930 to 2230

Getting There

By MRT:

• Circle line or East-West line – Buona Vista station

By Bus:

• alight at or opposite Buona Vista station or after Anglo Chinese Junior College   74, 91, 92 95, 191, 196, 198, 200

Rating: 6.5/10

The post DW Workshop At Rochester Drive – Buona Vista, Singapore appeared first on NAHMJ.