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Japanese food lovers who love a wide variety of food at affordable pricing got to make their way to the West of Singapore.

A brand-new Daily Dining Destination &JOY Dining Hall has just opened at Jurong Point Basement 1, occupying half of the Japanese food street.

This is literally where you can enjoy Japanese restaurant quality food without hurting your wallet, as prices are kept inexpensive.

There are 8 destinations to look forward to: 6 Japanese stalls located at the common dining hall food; and 2 new-to-market concepts in individual quick-concept restaurants.

If Osaka seems too far away, two renowned brands from the prefecture – ROMAN.TEI and RAMEN KIOU have set up their first Singapore outpost at &JOY Dining Hall.

With that many offerings, you may get lost during your first visit there. Read on to check out what exciting things they have to offer:

ROMAN.TEI
If you have been to Osaka, you may have come across ROMAN.TEI, known for its savoury cuts of quality beef with special sauces at reasonable pricing.

It is a concept by direct meat specialist and wholesaler – Okayama Food Service Co. Ltd. Similar to its stores in Japan, prices of the beef boxes are kept below $20 nett.

The Double Beef Zen ($17.90) comes highly recommended. This is for those who love your luxurious combo dish of beef steak and beef slices over fluffy rice, in which you can savour tender medium rare steak slices alongside beef broiled in a savoury broth.

The rice is served with a “golden ratio” in a Jyu box, accompanied with a side salad, condiments and extra soup.

RAMEN KIOU
This is RAMEN KIOU’s first outlet in Singapore, backed by Osaka’s all-time favourite Japanese-Chinese cuisine chain operator Daishin Jitsugyo. It has over 22 outlets in Japan, along with presence in Thailand.

Okay, I may show my bias for this stall since I love my ramen, and the interesting Tomato Cheese Ramen ($14.90) and just become my new favourite.

Tomato Cheese Ramen was in the rage over Instagram, and there is some surprise why many stores in Singapore don’t serve it yet.

The bowl comes with a luxuriously-thick tomato base with ramen noodles, topped with cheese and torched. Give it a good mix and you would enjoy the tangy-sweetness of the base.

It may remind you of tomato-based pasta, except that this is saucier and not-too-heavy since long, thin strands of ramen noodles are used.

Tip: Do not finish the sauce yet, as you can choose to top-up to get a bowl of rice with garlic to be mixed in. Other than ‘pasta’, you can have your fill of ‘risotto’.

If you prefer something more conventional, the signature ramen is the KIOU Ramen ($13.90), a salted-based tonkotsu broth with 2 pieces of house-made chashu.

This bowl contains milky pork bone broth, springy noodles, and tender roasted chashu which is melt-in-the-mouth.

Also available on its menu are the Chashu Ramen ($17.90) included with 5 pieces of chashu; Shoyu Tonkotsu Ramen ($12.90) with a soy sauce base; and Abura Soba ($11.90) comprising of thick dry noodles in-house special sauce.

Apart from the 2 Japanese partner brands, there will be 3 original concepts making their debut at &JOY Dining Hall – Sushi-GO (restaurant), Pittarino (restaurant) and My Gohan (common dining area).

Sushi-GO (located as individual restaurant)
Sushi-GO is a fuss-free quick service restaurant, with food delivered to diners’ table on mini conveyor trains which adds the fun element.

The restaurant serves up a more than 130 items priced from $1.80, from sushi pieces such as nigiri, gunkan, maki, to sashimi, appetisers, rice, noodles, desserts and drink.

For something slightly unconventional, head for the “GO-Series”. Its star “GO” items include Salmon Mentai-GO ($3.80), Spicy Salmon-GO ($3.80), Unagi-GO ($3.80), Lobster Salad-GO ($3.80), Salmon-GO ($3.20), and Ebi-GO ($3.20).

My favourite was the Salmon Mentai-GO ($3.80), with toppings of topped salmon pieces in a creamy and spicy rod roe sauce that could be very addictive.

For salmon lovers, the Salmon-GO ($3.20) should fulfil your cravings with three types of salmon sushi – salmon, mentai mayo salmon and cheese salmon – the later two slightly aburi-ed for some smokiness.

Pittarino (located as individual restaurant)
Pizza in under 2 minutes?

Pittarino uses a special oven whereby the pizza would be cooked in 90 seconds. The fast timing also helps to lock in the juice of the ingredients.

The Neapolitan pizzas are freshly made, hand-stretched from a dough, topped with variety of ingredients, then baked on the spot. The pizza crust in on the thin and chewy side, while its edges are airy with ‘leopard spots’.

Get the Bismark ($14.90) – a cream base pizza topped with ham, spinach, egg, Parmigiano and Mozzarella; or Prosciutto & Rocket ($17.90) of a tomato pizza base added with prosciutto, rocket and Grana Padano.

As for pasta dishes, fresh Nama pasta from Japan is used to produce a smooth yet chewy al dente texture with rich wheat flavour.

The Yuzu Vongole ($14.90) with vongole sauce, Asari, cherry tomato, rocket, chilli and yuzu; and Ebi Genovese Cream ($14.90) of cream sauce, pesto, prawn, broccoli and cherry tomato comes recommended for Italian-style pasta with a Japanese twist.

My Gohan
My Gohan which means “My Meal” offers Japanese home-style meal which can be customised to include a main, soup, rice and souzai (side dishes).

The idea is as though you are having a Japanese home-cooked meal which is both healthy and filling.

What you get is variety of Japanese ala-carte mains with choices such as salt-grilled saba fish, miso-marinated grilled red perch, grilled salmon belly with teriyaki sauce, grilled silver cod with salt, grilled unagi with sweet soy sauce and more.

You get the flexibility of including 2 souzai (hot or cold) or tempura, along with rice or udon.

If customisation is not your thing, then go straight for the signature sets such as the Akauo Saikyo Yaki ($14.90) – grilled red perch with miso paste with 2 sides of the day, rice and miso soup; or Hokke Hiraki ($16.90) – grilled dried atka mackerel with 2 sides of the day, rice and miso soup.

Wadori
For a quick sit-down meal or takeaways, then Yakitori can be your answer. Wadori offers charcoal-grilled meat sticks, with a rice base as a lunchbox option or meal on-the-go.

With you come with your family or group of friends, then I say go straight for the Fiesta Platter ($6.50) included with sticks of Pork Belly, Yakitori Chicken, Deep-Fried Chicken, Chicken Meatball, and Chicken Cheeseball.

&JOY Eats and &JOY Drinks
&JOY Eats features Ready-to-Eat items such as sushi, dango balls and Japanese snacks you can buy back to the coffee.

On the other side, there is &JOY Drinks offering an interesting range of canned flavoured drinks from Japan, bottled drinks and coffee.

“Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) system
&JOY Dining Hall also provides a fully-digitalised ordering experience at both restaurants and the common dining area.

Diners will be able to browse and order their meals through their mobile phones while sitting comfortably by either scanning a QR code on the tables or connecting to the free Wi-Fi provided.

Otherwise, you can head to the ordering booths next to each stall and make your orders conveniently. Food ready for collection will be flashed on the television screens around.

&JOY Dining Hall
B1 Jurong Point, Japanese Food Street, 65 Jurong West Central 3, Singapore 648332 (Boon Lay MRT)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with &JOY Dining Hall.

The MALA fever is showing no signs of stopping. While the likes “Mala Tang” and “Mala Xiang Guo” continue to be trending, the first Mala Korean Jjamppong in Singapore deserves a spot of one the top must-try mala dishes.

Nipong Naepong is the first and only jjamppong specialty restaurant in Singapore, offering unique versions of this Korean seafood noodle soup dish.

Jjamppong, commonly served with a medley of seafood, is prepared in different ways here.

A brand originally from South Korea, Nipong Naepong has added fresh, exciting dishes to its menu.

Diners craving for real Korean flavours will be treated to seven new dishes: Mala Ppong – in both dry and soup version, Jjajangmyeon (Black Bean Noodles), and the Iron-Plate series. This iron-Plate series is exclusively created for Singapore (you don’t get it elsewhere even in Korea), with 4 ways of enjoying Korean-style rice.

All these dishes are made versatile for meat lovers as they are available in beef, pork and chicken versions.

Discover and taste the brand’s signature wheat noodles (jjolmyeon) when you order any of their Ppong dishes. With its pasta-like texture, the bouncy jjolmyeon gives you that very chewy yet tender bite. Nipong Naepong’s special jjolmyeon is made in South Korea exclusively for the brand.

Mala Ppong – Soup (Pork / Beef) ($17.90)
The Sichuan-original “mala-tang” (literally meaning “numbing spicy soup”) has also reached South Korea and is a rising trend there.

This inspired Nipong Naepong to launch its own version, Mala Ppong in two formats.

Featuring the signature jjolmyeon noodles, the spicy Mala Ppong Soup version comes with a mix of sliced beef or pork belly, shimeji mushrooms, tofu, and quail eggs.

Now, you would have thought that this looked rather tame. For some context, if you always order “mala tang” elsewhere, this bowl would have been a level of medium-spicy (中辣) or even a notch higher.

After taking a spoonful of the hot soup, I thought, ”Well, still manageable…”, then the fieriness hits you after a couple of seconds later.

So, beware of its tongue-numbing powers. And this is strangely very addictive even though you really feel the heat after more spoonfuls. One word, ”shiok”!.

Mala Ppong – Dry (Pork / Beef) ($15.90)
Not in the soup mood? Go for the dry version of Mala Ppong which still features the signature jjolmyeon noodles. If you love the mala stir-fry pot aka “Mala Xiang Guo” (麻辣香锅), you will love this fragrant and smoky dish.

The bouncy jjolmyeon are tossed in an in-house Chinese mala paste wok-fried with pork or belly slices, shimeji mushrooms and cabbage.

Eat this where it is hot to experience some of that wok-hei and kick.

Your heat-loving taste buds will love its fiery, biting spiciness.

Personal preference, between the soup and dry version, I would want to go for this again. (Also perhaps because it is more manageable in terms of spiciness.)

Jjajangmyeon ($13.90)
A must-try dish for those who want something basic yet classic, this Korean-Chinese staple is prepared by combining noodles with a black bean sauce.

This jjajangmyeon version uses jjolmyeon noodles topped with minced pork, boiled quail eggs, fresh cucumber strips, a sprinkling of sesame seeds, and the key ingredient black bean sauce.

Give it a good toss, and you would love the earthy aroma and slightly salty thick sauce.

Iron-Plate Rice Series
You won’t find the Iron-Plate Rice Series in South Korea as it is exclusively created for Nipong Naepong Singapore. Inspired by the Korean concept hansang or한상 (“a table with a full meal”), the Iron-Plate Rice Series are available in 4 sets named after a South Korean region or landmark. Each set is served with condiments and side dishes on a customised wooden platter and hot-plate

Chuncheon Dakgalbi Iron-Plate Rice ($14.90)
This set is a cheese lover’s delight as it comes with molten mozzarella, perfect for dunking some spicy stir-fried chicken chunks.

The jumbo-sized rice ball, flavoured with ebiko (shrimp roe), is accompanied with seaweed, pickled radish, tortilla, sour cream and kimchi.

Savour this dish however you want. Whether you dip your chicken in cheese, break your rice roll apart to mix it with chicken and cheese, or make a mini chicken, cheese and rice tortilla, you are bound to enjoy this Chuncheon-inspired dish.

Seoul Bulgogi Iron-Plate Rice ($14.90)
Nipong Naepong takes an island of steamed rice and surrounds it with a moat of soft-set egg omelette and ebiko in this dish.

Named after the famous South Korean capital, this rice plate is topped with slices of the classic Korean-style beef bulgogi and leeks.

Joining the bunch are the usual sides: kimchi, pickled radish, ssamjang (spicy fermented soybean sauce), and fresh lettuce.

Go Korean-BBQ style and wrap those sweet and savoury bulgogi beef slices in nice, little lettuce parcels.

Jeju Spicy Pork Iron-Plate Rice ($14.90)
Experience the Korean hansang or a table full of food when you add to your orders the Jeju Spicy Pork Iron-Plate Rice.

Composed of spicy, stir-fried pork belly slices, leeks, crushed seaweed and rice with furikake (a dry Japanese seasoning), this dish requires mixing for best results.

Mix them all up on the hot plate then wrap in a fresh lettuce leaf. Don’t forget to add some ssamjang, pickled radish, and of course, kimchi.

Between the four Iron-Plate Rice Series, I would say this would be the safest choice to be a mass-favourite.

Hallasan Volcano Iron-Plate Rice ($14.90)
Save the best for last? This is the most striking looking of the series.

Named after Hallasan, a shield volcano on Jeju Island and highest mountain in South Korea.

This volcano-shaped rice dish is complete with “lava” gushing down its slope. That luscious lava is a spicy, minced pork sauce slathering the large seaweed and radish rice ball on a hot plate.

Order this iron-plate for an eruption of flavours, when you mix the accompanying kimchi, radish and spring onion into the rice and sauce.

Melon Yoghurt Ade ($13.90, 1 litre)
With all the numbing tongues from the Mala Ppong, this makes a must-needed delicious and refreshing drink to have.

Get an entire jug for every order of this fruity concoction, enough for 2-3 people.

Combined with the sweet honeydew melon is a deliciously tart yogurt, making this icy beverage a balance of flavours. To complete the setup, the 1-liter jug is served topped with a honeydew-flavoured popsicle.

Once it melts, your drink will be much richer!

Nipong Naepong – 313@somerset
313@somerset #B3-03, 313 Orchard Road Singapore 238895 (Somerset MRT)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm Last order 9.30pm (Mon – Fri);
11am – 11pm, Last order 10.30pm (Sat – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/NipongNaepongSingapore

Nipong Naepong – JEM
JEM #01-16, 50 Jurong Gateway Road, Singapore 608549 (Jurong East MRT)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm Last order 9.30pm (Mon – Fri);
11am – 11pm, Last order 10.30pm (Sat – Sun)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Nipong Naepong.

”Isn’t this the coffee version of TWG?”, my friend quipped.

With its wide selection (over 200) of coffee, luxurious boutique-like concept, décor of marble floors and brass chandeliers, and serving staff in classic European-style uniforms and ties, people may just see that association.

Plus, Bacha Coffee is located at Level 1 of ION Orchard (right opposite Nespresso), just a storey below TWG.

Anyway, this is the Moroccan brand’s first international outpost, specialising in coffee from single origins, coffee blends as well as flavoured coffee.

There are over 200 to choose from, and so you can come almost every day in a year if variety is what you crave.

The décor itself is striking, designed to reflect the Moroccan Dar el Bacha palace in Marrakech. Some customers take the opportunity to strike a pose, some repeatedly and too many.

Totally the tai-tai or try to be tai-tai place to chill-away during the afternoon after shopping.

This is a 30-seater; with the ambience and amount people pay, customers may just linger and chat a while longer. Be expected to wait 30 minutes or even more during peak hour weekends.

While the coffee selection may look overwhelming at first, they do include the taste profile and strength, and the serving staff can guide you along to make a preferred selection.

The coffee starting at $9 may seem pricey at first, but it comes in a golden gooseneck pot, good for two to share.

Plus, there is accompanying raw sugar, cracked vanilla bean and signature Chantilly whipped cream you can add to enhance the taste profile.

The coffee I had (was a “Chocolate Hill”) was delicate and smooth, with an almost tea-like feel to it. I loved it.

You may do a double take of the pricing of the mains, with a Savoury Croissant priced at $18, and most the above $20 range.

While a set menu of a main coffee with coffee is priced at $29, it was not indicated clearly which items are considered “main courses” of the day and would lead to some confusion.

I had a Scrambled Eggs with Black Truffle ($24), which I would say was a decent rendition with moderate creaminess and distinct aroma of truffle.

But it won’t be something I would rave about and come back for, considering its price and portion.

Perhaps the more unique and Moroccan style dishes left a better impression, such as the Morrocan Chicken Pastilla infused with Rosenheim Coffee ($24), and Moroccan Kefta Meatballs accompanied with straw potato fries ($28).

Then again, they are not the strongest motivations why I would return to this place.

The Croissants ($8 for 2 pieces) come in varieties of Butter, 1910 Coffee & Chocolate, Lemon Croissant, Raspberry & Cinnamon, Pistachio and Orange Almond, though again its price could deter some.

During my first visit, I thought that the Raspberry & Cinnamon Croissant were delightfully crisp and fluffy, though those I had in another meal were more lacklustre.

Bacha Coffee can get quite crowded (thus noisy) due to its location and therefore takes away some of the peace you would like for an easy-going afternoon.

Its music selection, a mixture of anything from jazz, French to Moroccan, can be disjointing in terms of volume – sometimes soothing, other times loud.

Otherwise, I would so come back here again to indulge in coffee, some pastries, and enjoy a seemingly high SES lifestyle.

Bacha Coffee
2 Orchard Turn, #01-15/16 ION Orchard Mall, Singapore 238801
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

[Bali] Indonesia is home to various kinds of sate (satay) ranging from chicken, beef, lamb to seafood.

As much as sate dominates in every corner of Indonesia, one particular type that is available in more limited quantities is Sate Babi or Pork Satay.

However, it is pretty common to Sate Babi in Bali itself, as the majority of Balinese is Hindu.

Sate Babi Bawah Pohon literally translated to “Pork Satay Under the Tree”, and located in the middle of Kuta/Legian, is popular among both locals and tourists alike.

Not so long ago, the stall used to grill their pork satay under a tree in Legian, thus its name.

As their popularity increased, they moved to a new location in Kuta which is bigger and cleaner. The downside? There are no trees for them to grill the satay under.

I had been hearing about how tasty and famous they were, to the point that many tourists (local and domestic pre-order days before and da bao (takeaway) hundreds of sticks back home.

Curious enough, I ordered the Sate Babi + Nasi (IDR 30k, SGD3.00) consisting of eight sticks with the option of rice or lontong (rice cake).

Have your first stick plain without additional sauces, so that you can taste the original flavour.

The meat was surprisingly soft, well-seasoned with a hint of chili and lemongrass, and the highlight was the smokiness and good charring.

Though the meat was slightly on the sweet side.

I couldn’t help but to order another 10 sticks of Sate Babi (IDR 30k, SGD3.00).

This time I tried the recommended way, by adding a hint of salt, dipped into the sambal. The sweetness from the seasoning and the saltiness from the salt blended really well.

For accompaniment, you could eat it with the raw green chili if you need more kick; or get some pork crackers and fruits as a top-up.

Overall, I think it was quite good and enjoyable but not to the point that I will deliberately da bao 50-100 sticks back home.

Portions for example, could be improved.

Although some say that the standard has dropped, many still regard this as the best pork satay you can find in Bali.

Sate Babi Bawah Pohon
Jl. Dewi Sri IV Jl. Campuhan I – Dewi Sri, Legian, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Tel: +6281 9362 53567
Opening Hours: 8am – 9pm
Google Maps – Sate Babi Bawah Pohon

* Written by DFD͛’s Jakarta Food Correspondent @iknowhowtoeat who loves exploring NEW food places in both Indonesia and Singapore. DFD pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

[Johor Bahru, Malaysia] I believe many would have heard of insta-famous People & Places Café in JB – the industrial-chic café inspired by Melbourne café scene, which propelled to even greater fame after being patronized by Mandopop star Jay Chou.

Founded by the same team, ROUTINE by Soon is their latest café brainchild conveniently located at the newly developed R&F Mall, which can be reached upon some short walking distance from JB CIQ checkpoint.

While the former boasts plenty of natural sunlight, high ceiling and industrial chic interior, ROUTINE by Soon took up a slightly varied style.

Equipped with warm shades of pink and pastel coral interiors and filled with tons of lush greeneries, they first started this place with the concept of a casual eatery but has recently revamped their menu to more of a full-fledged café.

I took a quick scan of the menu and spotted a couple of familiar dishes from People & Places café such as Quesadilla Breakkie (RM25, SGD$8.40), Englishman’s Breakfast (RM29, SGD$9.70) and Roasted Peanut Butter Toasts (RM11.90, SGD4).

The change was probably rather recent as the serving staff actually took the extra effort to went through with me the full menu and elaborated more about their new dishes. Very thoughtful.

I was recommended to the Sous Vide Piri Piri Fried Chicken (RM27.90, SGD9.30) which came served with an aesthetically eye-catching grilled corn slathered with tomato salsa sauce, sour cream and topped with pomegranate and coriander leaves.

The pronounced flavours which came together did reminded me of Mexican food which contains intricate flavours of savoury, sweet, sourish and spicy. Very much to my usual taste preference.

While I was expecting the chicken to be tender from sous vide, the meat texture turned out to be slightly tough and dry, probably from over deep-frying.

Another recommended dish was their Tiger Prawn Linguine (RM42.90, SGD14.30).

While this is the priciest dish on the menu, the pasta came with fresh tiger prawns cooked in prawn velouté and further seasoned with natural ingredients such as chilli, cherry tomatoes, capers and basil leaves.

This resulted in a serving of rich, creamy prawn pasta filled with umami-ness.

Interestingly, the pasta was topped with rice noodles crisps (those that you would usually come across at cze char stores as plating decorations) to provide some elements of crunchiness to the dish.

Also worth a mention was their Salted Egg Yolk Fries (RM16.90, SGD5.70), which came covered with loads of savoury salted egg yolk bits embedded with spiced curry leaves.

It was quite the calorie-bomb, but I still ended up clearing the last bit of salted egg anyway.

The café is also vegetarian-friendly, with quite a handful of plant-based offerings to cater to the greater community.

I tried the Hummus Party (RM22.90, SGD7.70) and was impressed by the dish which came bursting with flavours from a variety of plant-based ingredients used such as hummus, stir-fry barley, roasted cauliflower, purple cabbage and many more.

For desserts, you should try their Matcha Panna Cotta (RM22.90, SGD7.70) which came with a jiggly matcha cream pudding plated together with fresh fruits such as passionfruit, strawberries, kiwi and with smears of black sesame jam.

While the matcha flavour was not overly intense, it was well-complemented with the other fruit components which would probably make this dessert more palatable for non-matcha lovers.

Some people on IG were also raving about their Burnt Cheesecake with Oat Crumble (RM12.90, SGD4.30).

While It wasn’t as silky smooth as the menu describes, I generally liked its rich creaminess which went well with oat crumble and not overly jerlat from having too many mouthfuls.

To head to R&F Mall, look out for this inconspicuous link bridge entrance located to the left when you exit JB CIQ checkpoint.

The link bridge is fully sheltered and leads directly to the mall after an estimated 10 minutes stroll. You won’t have to worry about losing your direction or getting drenched in rain.

ROUTINE by Soon
R&F Mall, Lot G-025, G-026, Mercu 1, Jalan Tanjung Puteri 1 R & F, Tanjung Puteri, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/routinebysoon/
Google Maps – ROUTINE by Soon

* Written by Lewis Tan @juicyfingers, a self-proclaimed coffee addict. Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Friends would know that I am a fan of Michelin-starred Chef Kang’s at Mackenzie Road, especially for the Soon Hock Fish Soup and Simmered Rice Noodles in Superior Stock.

Late last year when I learnt that Chef Ang Song Kang opened Chef Kang’s Noodle House serving up Wanton Noodles at Toa Payoh, I headed down immediately. I enjoyed the springy noodles and char siew, though there were reviews that commented it was ”over-rated”.

It won a Michelin Bib Gourmand any way.

He has set up another noodle-specialty eatery at Toa Payoh, located at Lorong 4 – a short walk away from the wanton noodle house. It is run by his proteges.

Would he be third time lucky?

This is Prawn Noodles aka hae mee focused, serving up just two items on the menu – King Prawn Noodle Soup With Prawn Paste Spare Ribs ($10), and Hot Stone Prawn Paste Spare Ribs Rice ($10).

Having a prawn noodle shop at the bottom of a HDB flat with a “Michelin-star chef” backing would attract some curious onlookers.

But would it be enough, especially when Toa Payoh is full of affordable and good hawker food?

I ordered a noodles and bee hoon combination, and the bowl arrived piping hot with a king prawn divided in two, and deep-fried prawn paste pork chop placed on a metal holder to keep the piece crisp (tonkatsu ramen style).

Of course I headed for the soup first. It was mildly sweet, rather flavourful, but not as strong and robust as how I would like it to be.

A reason could be because chicken rather than pork is used as base in cooking up the stock.

A not-bad prawn soup, but not impressive enough.

The prawn was fresh, pork chop succulent, but the true star of the bowl was in fact the fragrant and crunchy pork lard.

Unfortunately, the Hot Stone Prawn Paste Spare Ribs Rice ($10) was a let-down and fairly disappointing.

The rice though heated to 300°C and came in a sizzling hot stone with rice crisps at the bottom, fell short of flavours and aroma.

Despite adding more of the dark soy sauce, it did little to elevate the overall taste.

Perhaps because all it had was egg and crispy pork lard, and needed more ingredients for some savouriness. The prawn paste pork chop didn’t gel much with the rest.

Despite being a fan, I think that both dishes would need some form of tweaking, especially for the Hot Stone Rice.

Chef Kang Prawn Noodle House
85 Lor 4 Toa Payoh, #01-328, Singapore 310085
Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm or till sold out (Tues – Sun), Closed Mon

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

[Jeju Island, Korea] Korean instant noodles, otherwise known as ramyeon, is probably one of the most highly consumed food products in South Korea and plays a significant role in shaping modern South Korean food culture.

While these processed foods are not the healthiest thing to frequently consume as a staple diet, additional fresh ingredients are usually added to make it a wholesome meal.

At Nobala, one can enjoy extravagant seafood ramyeon filled with Jeju seasonal catch such as crab, octopus and abalone, without worry of breaking your budget.

The basic Seafood Ramyeon (KRW8,000, SGD9.20) came topped with a crab of my palm size, a couple of live abalone and tons of cabbage to create a crustaceans pot jam-packed with umami flavours.

For more luxurious treat, go for the premium Octopus Seafood Ramyeon (KRW15,000, SGD17.20) which has a large whole octopus sitting on the bed of seafood ramyeon.

The octopus was so HUGE (I think can cover my whole face) and we had to cut it up into smaller pieces to consume. The tentacles were surprisingly tender and not overly rubbery to chew on.

There is a choice of spicy or non-spicy broth, and I would recommend the latter. I felt that the spicy broth tasted one-dimensional and was overpowered with peppery spices which overwhelmed the natural sweetness from seafood.

I also observed neighbouring tables going for the One Seafood Ramyeon & Two Dosirak Set (KWR19,000, SGD21.80) which was reasonably priced for sharing between two or three pax.

The Dosirak bento was filled with sweet beancurd skin, kimchi, anchovies, sunny-side up and white rice and we were to shake the bento with gochujang dressing to mix everything evenly.

(Photo from @bcm8280)

Unfortunately, the weather was gloomy at my time of visit, if not I could have got myself a perfect seaside view while slurping on a bowl of hot seafood ramyeon.

Nolaba 노라바
100 Gueom-gil, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
제주특별자치도 제주시 애월읍 구엄길 100
Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm (Mon – Sun), Closed for Break 2pm – 3pm
GPS: 772-1900
https://store.naver.com/restaurants/detail?id=37438036
Google Maps – Nolaba

* Written by Lewis Tan @juicyfingers, a self-proclaimed coffee addict. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Let’s just say that Merci Marcel has done it again. After successful outlets at Tiong Bahru and Club Street, the French- restaurant-café has gone on to open a lifestyle concept at Orchard Road.

This sits right next to the entrance of the Palais Renaissance, where many tai-tai hang out for hair treatments, shop for luxury furniture, have Michelin-starred sushi, and yeah, hang out at P.S Café and the likes.

The newest Merci Marcel completes that picture – coffee, desserts, wine, food, place to Instagram and shop, and kids would probably feel comfortable here as well.

People come in their active wear, dress-down floral dresses or executive wear, and they all look they are just happy to be there.

I liked the whole ambience as well. It has this tropical-meets-bohemian chic.

An outdoor seating that is actually quite cooling awaits for those who loves some natural daylight and occasional people-watching; or more boutique-bar like interior with rows of French Rosé as a backdrop.

The all-day dining destination has quite a number of highlight dishes on its menu, including Ravioles de Royans ($18, $28)– French dumpling pasta filled with cheese & spinach, foie gras emulsion, Atlantic Wild Cod ($34), Barramundi Tartare ($23), Smoked Haddock Salad ($18), and of course the trending Impossible Marcel Burger ($28).

For desserts, there is the Crepe Mercel with tiramisu emulsion ($12), and Pineapple Carpaccio ($11) which my friend described as the best sweet thing she had in a while.

As I was there for brunch, I decided to go for the safer choices of Scrambled Eggs with truffle paste and aged parmesan ($20).

It was almost how I would imagine it to be… a safe choice. The organic eggs could have a creamier consistency, more distinctive truffle aroma, and I would been happier with one more egg within (a hungry person would finish this within three mouthfuls.)

The Croissant ($3.50) made from 100% French butter certainly got to be one of the best you can find in Singapore – crispy and radiated with buttery fragrance. Délicieux!

As for the Chocolate Cake ($10), it was in short, rich and good.

Intense and dense, some customers could find this on the dry side, but there was that light Chantilly cream to balance it all off.

Other than its pricing which I find slightly on the high side, Merci Marcel at Orchard presents a tranquil escape from the hustle of town, THE place for relaxed social dining.

Merci Marcel – Orchard
390 Orchard Road, #01-03/04, Palais Renaissance Singapore 238871
Opening Hours: 8am – 11pm (Mon – Sun)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Is Singapore ready for another bubble tea brand? Of course.

The Whale Tea 琉璃鯨, one of the largest beverages and dessert stores in China, has arrived in Singapore and promises make a difference with its innovative signature drinks, soft serve with freshly-made cones, and fluffy soufflé desserts.

It has opened at Lot One Shoppers’ Mall, and next make its arrival at City Square Mall (24th October) and flagship at China Square Central (11th November). (A fourth outlet at Rivervale Mall in Sengkang is in the pipeline to open this December.)

Originally from Nanjing, the brand was founded by Huang Ke Ning in June 2018 while focusing on uncommon ingredients to create its beverages. The chain is well-loved by many in more than 500 outlets across mainland China.

Curious why it’s called The Whale Tea?

In Chinese, whales are ‘jing’ (鯨), which phonetically sounds like Nan-jing, its place of origin. And like the protected whales of the wild, this bubble tea brand embodies boldness and purity.

Here are The Whale Tea’s recommended drinks and desserts to start off your discovery stage of mostly Insta-worthy cups for its visually striking looks and eclectic colour combinations.

Taste-wise, you’ll find an array of unique, healthy ingredients such as peach gum, spirulina, and Wuliangye, a Chinese baijiu made with a variety of grains.

Volcanic Sapphire Whale (from $4.50) Under the Volcanic Collagen Series
The Volcanic Collagen Series includes cups of Volcanic Sapphire Whale, Milk Tea Lava, Passion Fruit Lava and Grapefruit Lava, all featuring peach gum as key ingredient.

Peach gum? This is your alternative to the typical boba pearls. They are softer to the bite, somewhat like smaller pieces of jelly.

The natural resin, harvested from wild Chinese peach trees, is soaked overnight and impurities are removed by hand. Once soft, the collagen and amino acid rich resin is boiled in rock sugar ‘til it becomes translucent jelly bits of sweetness.

The most striking choice would be the Volcanic Sapphire Whale with its bright blue top, coconut milk and amber jelly at the bottom.

The blue comes from spirulina (a blue-green algae superfood) for an extra boost of nutrients and that celestial tint of sapphire.

It doesn’t add much taste though, so the main flavour comes from the coconut milk which is on the light and delicate side – which is different from the usual rich and milkier choices.

The choice if you want something #forthegram and a refreshing treat that is not too heavy.

Flaming Brown Sugar ($6.80, available at Lot One and China Square Central)
An ‘upgrade’ from the usual brown sugar milk drinks.

Combining the creamy texture of fresh milk and the addictive chewiness of brown sugar boba pearls, this beverage is topped with a cheese milk cap and torched caramelised brown sugar.

The best part to me was the slow-cooked brown sugar boba, which were nicely-chewy with obvious caramelised sweetness. Probably one of the best boba pearls around Singapore.

The streaks of caramelised brown sugar inside the tall cup is also an artwork depicting a blaze of sweetness.

You will catch a whiff of its smoky aroma before your lips sink into the velvety cheese milk tap.

Brown Sugar Boba Milk ($4.80, $5.80, available at Lot One and China Square Central)
This is a version without the torched caramelisation.

The Brown Sugar Boba Milk leads the pack with its classic fresh milk and brown sugar boba combination.

Topped with a cheese milk cap, this beverage is one of the more standard to-go-for ones in the line-up. If you’re one of those looking for something familiar and still hooked on the brown sugar craze, this drink is for you.

Other drinks in the “Glass Whale Series” include Brown Sugar Boba Crush, Brown Sugar Cocoa Milk, and Brown Sugar Shizuoka Matcha.

Blue Crystal Coconut Milk ($3.80)
Whale Tea also features a series of drinks featuring crystal toppings, which is called the “Glass Crystal Series”.

These soft and chewy coloured pieces are created naturally with aiyu jelly, and comes either in blue or black.

The difference, is that the blue crystal tastes fruitty, and black crystal has a distinct-caramel sweetness.

The Blue Crystal Coconut Milk, topped with a cheese milk cap, includes the blue version swimming in creaminess of coconut milk.

Fresh milk (with or without tea) options are available for those who find coconut milk too rich.

Black Crystal Matcha ($5.00)
You may not have quite imagine matcha, fresh milk and caramel jelly coming together, but this actually works.

Add a touch of tranquil green to your day with the Black Crystal Matcha.

The use of this finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves make this a high-grade, nutritious tea.

While I would have personally preferred the green tea flavour to be stronger, the blend between the lingering bitter tea flavour and lightly-sweet caramel jelly made this one of my favourites at The Whale Tea.

Strawberry Milk ($6.50, available at Lot One Shoppers’ Mall only)
Revitalise your day with a cup of antioxidant-rich strawberry juice mixed with fresh milk.

This Strawberry Milk, served with a topping of cheese milk cap, is also part of the Glass Whale Series.

Its pretty pinkish-red colour may evoke feelings of love and comfort, while taste wise it may remind some of strawberry yogurt with its milky goodness and bright citrus undertones.

Perfect Orange Tea ($4.80, available at Lot One and China Square Central)
Need to skip the dairy? Don’t worry, The Whale Tea goes beyond milk teas and lays out fruit tea options for you.

Highly recommended is the Perfect Orange Tea, made with four seasons spring tea (四季春茶), fresh orange juice, and orange slices and strawberry halves floating around in your drink.

The light golden coloured four seasons spring tea has a floral aroma, without the usual bitterness or dryness.

Aftertaste is rich and sweetish. The perfect drink for a hot weather, and the perfect prop for a summer-themed Insta-photo.

Passion Fruit Lava ($5.30, available at Lot One and China Square Central)
If you’re still in fruity mode, try this drink that combines fresh passion fruit juice and kumquat juice.

The sweet and exotic passion fruit imparts that delicious, slightly tart flavour to the drink, while the kumquat adds its distinctive sour, citrus tang.

The “lava” in its name tells you it is part of the Volcanic Collagen Series, complete with peach gum jellies and slices of watermelon and citrusy lime.

Wuliangye Soft Serve or Golden Cocktail Cocoa Ice Cream ($4.80)
Ready for dessert? The Whale Tea offers sweet tooths a different kind of treat.

The Wuliangye-infused soft serve ice cream, developed by the founder of The Whale Tea himself, features a proprietary blend of cocoa, activated charcoal and Wuliangye, a Chinese grain-based liquor.

The real appeal of this dessert is how velvety smooth it is, seducing your mouth for unstoppable licking.

Served in a chocolate charcoal cone (made fresh on the spot daily!), the dark-coloured spiked cream is sprinkled with gold powder with finesse.

Electric Sea Salt Soft Serve ($4.20)
An equally exciting alternative to the boozed soft serve, the Electric Sea Salt Soft Serve will please you with its fun topping.

Imaging crackling popping candy all over your pastel blue-coloured ice cream, served in the same chocolate charcoal cone.

The addition of sea salt provides a wonderful contrast of saltiness to the sweet cream.

Also enjoy two additional flavours only at the City Square outlet – Durian and Strawberry.

Whale Island Soufflé ($7.80, available at City Square Mall and China Square Central)
When hunger beckons, try the signature Whale Island Soufflé made with two fluffy light-as-air soufflé pancakes.

Under the “whale island” is a sea of blue aiyu crystal jelly, coconut jelly, and brown sugar boba.

Topping the island is a dainty blue coating of spirulina milk cream, blue and yellow coloured chocolate pearls, and an intricately crafted whale tail made of white chocolate.

This dessert creation which comes in a take-away ‘globe’, is just as Pinterest-pretty as the rest of the bubble milk teas, and falls under the too-cute-to-eat menu items.

Cocoa Island Soufflé ($7.80, available at City Square Mall and China Square Central)
Like the Whale Island Soufflé, the Cocoa Island Soufflé comes with a couple of light and fluffy pancakes as the “island” on a sea of blue aiyu crystal jelly, coconut jelly, and brown sugar boba.

But instead of a whale tale, you will find toppings of classic milk cream, fragrant cocoa powder and fresh mint leaves, depicting a semblance of island and foliage.

The Whale Tea Opening Promotions
Lot One Promo: Lucky draw (Grand prize Apple Watch Series 5): Drink & Win from 18 Oct to 18 Nov
Follow FB or IG, and post a photo of The Whale Tea product with #thewhaleteasg, #thewhaletealotone

City Square Mall Promo 1: First 3000 customers will receive a complimentary limited edition phone screen wipe (until 31 Oct, or while stocks last)
City Square Mall Promo 2: Like The Whale Tea City Square Mall’s Facebook Page to purchase Strawberry Soft Serve at only $1.50. (Until 15 Nov, or while stocks last).

China Square Central Promo: First 100 customers to purchase two drinks will receive a complimentary ice cream (while stocks last)

The Whale Tea – Lot One
Lot One Shoppers’ Mall, 21 Choa Chu Kang Ave 4, #B1-25 Singapore 689812
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/thewhaleteasingapore

The Whale Tea – City Square Mall
City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road, #B2-K7, Singapore 208539
https://www.facebook.com/thewhaleteaatcitysquaremall
(Opening date: 24 October 2019)

The Whale Tea – China Square Central
18 Cross Street, China Square Central, #01-118 Singapore 048423
https://www.facebook.com/thewhaleteasg
(Opening date: 11 November 2019)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with The Whale Tea.

Looking for some of the best ribs in Singapore?

Famous for its signature dish the Sticky Bones Spare Ribs, Morganfield’s has been a magnet for barbecue fans who enjoy that rustic, good ol’ fashioned American-style BBQ.

It has been the “Home of Sticky Bones”, delighting rib lovers in Singapore at their 4 outlets: The Star Vista, Suntec City, ViVoCity, and Orchard Central.

Their Sticky Bones Spare Ribs are rooted and prepared in the spirit of Southern hospitality – slow cooked, smoked, and slathered with an authentic hickory-flavoured BBQ sauce.

The prime U.S. pork ribs are literally fall off the bones. (Great if you are already planning for year-end and Christmas get-togethers.)

For their 7th year anniversary in Singapore (time flies, because I remembered I wrote about their first restaurant at The Star Vista), Morganfield’s has introduced Baby Back Combo Platters – perfect for sharing between 2 to 3 people.

Each platter features combinations of ribs, meat and seafood together with a sumptuous spread of sides, quite value-for-its menu. Here’s more:

Morganfield’s Baby Back Ribs ($34.90, full slab)
As the name implies, these baby back ribs (aka loin ribs) are smaller and leaner compared to their signature Sticky Bones Spare Ribs.

Cut from the loin nearer to the back, they are prepared with a special dry rub – made from a Morganfield’s secret spice rub recipe.

What makes these ribs ultra-tender is slow cooking them at low temperature, then finished on the grills for some smoky notes. This process breaks down all the connective tissues, melting the collagen, giving you that fall-off-the-bone tender ribs.

Compared to spare ribs, baby back ribs even have less connective tissues. So that racks up the tenderness score.

Also, the collagen melts into liquid gelatine that coats the meat. That creates a juicy, silky mouthfeel as you sink your teeth into it.

Like the Sticky Bones Spare Ribs, the Baby Back Ribs are available with 5 flavours: Hickory BBQ, Smoked Peppercorn, Garlic BBQ, Kansas Sweet BBQ, and Spicy Asian BBQ.

I would recommend going for the signature Hickory BBQ which is said to be “Oinkingly Good”, especially if you are a first timer to Morganfield’s.

The other good thing is, portions are HUGE. Order a full slab and you get more than one pound of rib goodness. Perfectly sized for any meat-lover’s appetite.

Check out these new Combo Platters, big enough to be shared between 2-3 people. (They take about 20 – 25 mins to serve, so it is best to order some starters to keep yourself occupied while waiting.)

Half & Half ($56.90)
The first combo platter is Half & Half, which gives you half slab of the signature Sticky Bones and half slab of Baby Back Ribs. A great choice if you can’t decide between the signature spare ribs and baby back ribs.

You can pick the flavours for both of the rib slabs to give your taste buds more variety. Whichever you choose, you’re bound to lick them off your fall-off-the bone ribs, and your fingers.

This platter comes with a couple of grilled sausages, a small bowl of coleslaw, some fresh garden salad, and hot-crisp French fries to munch along.

I have to say I still prefer the signature spare ribs so tender you can just use your fingers to ~~rip~~ tear them part. Then lick the sauces away from the tips of your fingers.

The Steakout ($68.90)
Next up is The Steakout, which covers the sweet spot for both rib lovers and steak lovers.

A pure indulgence for culinary carnivores, this platter features half slab of Baby Back Ribs side-by-side with a hefty 300g chunk of Rib-eye steak.

Choose from any of the 5 flavours for your ribs, but the Spicy Asian BBQ would light up your meal with just the right amount of heat.

Savour the succulence of the steak, hot off the grill, and pair them with the accompanying French fries, grilled corn-on-a-cob and fresh garden salad.

Want more meat? You also get grilled sausages.

Surf & Turf ($50.90)
Torn between the lip-smacking ribs and the crunchy battered fish? Surf & Turf is created to give you the best of both worlds.

This combo meal features a half slab of Baby Back Ribs (with your choice of any of the 5 flavours) and beer-battered deep-fried Hoki fish fillets.

The golden-fried medium-flake Hoki fish was delicate and slightly sweet. You would find that it is relatively more flavourful than some other white fish due to its higher fat content.

The platter also satisfies with grilled sausages, garden salad, French fries, and (to me the highlight…) mac & cheese.

Buffalo Wings ($13.90)
With all their mouth-watering racks of ribs, who needs an appetizer? But if you still do, get your hands messy with these deep fried chicken wings drenched in a house-made spicy-sweet sauce.

To contrast that spicy flavour, dip your wingettes in the accompanying tangy, sweet and creamy Ranch Sauce.

Other Morganfield’s Promotions (Other T&C apply)
Weekend Ribs Buffet
Free flow Sticky Bones, sides and soups at $40++. Available from 11am to 4pm on weekends and public holidays.

Kids Eat for Free
Kids below 8 years or 120cm in height will get to enjoy a free meal for every adult’s main meal. A maximum of two kids’ meals can be redeemed per table. Available on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays.

Top Value Set Lunch from $14.90++
14 different mains to choose from, which comes with free Soup of the Day and a soft drink or hot coffee/ tea. Available for dine-in from Mondays to Fridays (excluding Public Holidays), 11am to 3pm.

Morganfield’s
Suntec City, 3 Temasek Boulevard, Tower 4, #01-645, Singapore 038983 (Promenade MRT)
Tel: +65 6736 1136

The Star Vista, 1 Vista Exchange Green, Unit #02-23, Singapore 138617 (Buona Vista MRT)
Tel: +65 6694 3635

VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk, Unit #01-51A, Singapore 098585 (Next to Sentosa Boardwalk Exit) Tel: +65 6225 0501

Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road, Unit #11-03/04 Singapore 238896 (Somerset MRT)
Tel: +65 6634 1828

Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm (Sun – Thurs), 11am – 12am (Fri – Sat, PH Eve)
https://www.facebook.com/MorganfieldsSingapore/

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Morganfield’s.

Are you ready for a maze-soba extravaganza in global proportions?

Menya Kokoro, Japan’s largest maze-soba chain is hosting “Top of the World”, Singapore’s biggest maze-soba party.

Now you have the chance to meet the brand’s 6 best-sellers curated from its international menus – Tokyo, Jakarta, Manila, Bangkok, Vancouver, and Singapore. All under one roof.

You can choose to have them from any Menya Kokoro’s 3 outlets at Suntec City (Eat At Seven), 100AM Mall, and its newest outlet at Plaza Singapura.

Menya Kokoro began when a Japanese Chef named Takuma Ishikawa created Kokoro Maze-Soba in Tokyo, Japan. His maze-soba, unparalleled in taste and quality, has spread its popularity all over Japan.

It even won the Best Maze-Soba Award in 2014.

Within 5 years, Menya Kokoro has opened a total of 29 outlets around the world. As it continues to expand, more foodies will have access to its award-winning signature dish.

Visit its latest outlet in Singapore at Basement 2 of Plaza Singapura and discover the 6 global top-sellers from 6 countries. Here they are:

Furious Mala Ramen – Top-seller in Singapore ($14.80, $16.80)
Singapore’s very own bestseller is the Furious Mala Ramen, not surprisingly a spicy choice since mala is still trending.

Like a traditional ramen, this bowl is filled with rich and slightly creamy tonkotsu-based soup.

But what differentiates it from the usual, is that the bowl is packed with intense flavors from the trio of Szechuan peppers, dried chili strings and chili oil.

The al dente cooked ramen is doused in the fiery mala soup, then topped with seaweed, chopped spring onions, and an onsen egg cooked to precision.

Up for a tongue numbing challenge? This is the dish to pick. If you are up for a bigger challenge, inform the staff to increase the “mala level”.

(Also available is a dry-version of the Furious Mala Maze-Soba, with the same type of ‘heat’.)

Tokyo Maze-soba – Top-seller in Bangkok ($10.80, $12.80)
In the heart of this winning dish is Menya Kokoro’s signature secret-recipe minced meat sauce.

Prepared using Japanese techniques through a 4-hour slow cooking process, it has deep flavours that well complement the maze-soba ingredients.

Once tossed, these ingredients – ramen, ground Saba fish, nori, poached egg, green onion, garlic, and chives – deliver a fusion of flavours enhanced by the minced meat sauce.

If you are a first-timer to Menya Kokoro, I would say go for this classic bowl or the Zenbu Maze-soba (more below on the Zenbu).

Double Cheese Maze-soba – Top-seller in Jakarta ($13.80, $15.80)
Attention, cheese lovers. This maze-soba boasts of double cheese for twice the fun, making it impossible to resist.

A top-seller among Jakarta-based foodies, this dish is a variant of the Tokyo Maze-soba, upgraded with a blanket of melted cheese.

Do give the noodles a good toss when the bowl freshly arrives and cheese is melty. Then savour the rich flavour and creaminess when the cheesy sauce coats the strands all over.

Kokoro Tantanmen – Top-seller in Tokyo ($13.80, $15.80)
This particular ramen racks up in popularity in Tokyo, where it prepares the noodles deliciously swimming in an aromatic tonkotsu-based broth.

Featuring Menya Kokoro’s signature secret recipe minced meat, this tantanmen also includes tender char shu slices and chopped fresh spring onion.

Of all the new additions, I like this best. There is more going on with mild spiciness from the chilli oil along with mellow nutty sweetness.

Mentai Ebi Maze-soba – Top-seller in Vancouver ($13.80, $15.80)
Have a taste of this Canadian bestseller from Vancouver, the Mentai Ebi Maze-soba.

This dish features a combination of prawns, ebiko, seaweed, onsen egg, and a couple of greens – the herbaceous and pungent shiso leaf and the crisp and peppery rocket or arugula.

What’s especially delectable is the savoury mentai butter coating the entire dish with its creaminess.

This sauce is on the rich and thick side, almost feel like you are having carbonara.

Zenbu Maze-soba – Top-seller in Manila ($14.80, $16.80)
This maze-soba is not called “Zenbu” for nothing. Living up to its name (‘Zenbu’ means ‘everything in’), this dish brims with ingredients, showcasing its signature Japanese-style slow-braised minced meat sauce.

This Manila bestseller also includes char shu along with ground Saba fish, two eggs (one poached, one onsen), nori seaweed, chopped green onions, minced garlic, chives, and bamboo shoot.

Quite value-for-its money as you get a bit of everything in a bowl, especially when you get two types of pork (minced meat and char shu) and two types of eggs.

In addition, you get a free mushroom kombu-based soup and high-quality oimeshi rice (upon request) for every order of maze-soba.

Need to add more sides? Menya Kokoro offers new additions to your maze-soba party, including Aji Fry (Fried Horse Mackerel) ($3.80 per piece) and Pumpkin Croquette ($2.80 per piece)

Aji Fry (Fried Horse Mackerel) ($3.80 per piece)
Typically eaten during summer in Japan, the horse mackerel provides stamina to the body. Menya Kokoro has prepared it deep-fried as side dish to your maze-soba.

It is coated in crispy breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch, then served with an accompanying in-house sauce.

Pumpkin Croquette ($2.80 per piece)
Made with Japanese kabocha squash, these croquettes are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. You will love how the filling is naturally sweet and savoury, a blend of flavours your taste buds will easily love.

Menya Kokoro – Plaza Singapura
Plaza Singapura #B2-53 68 Orchard Road, Singapore 238839
Opening Hours: 11am – 3:30pm, 5pm – 9:30pm (Mon – Thurs, Sun), 11am – 10pm (Fri – Sat)
Last order half hour before closing
https://www.facebook.com/menyakokorosg

Menya Kokoro – 100AM
100 Tras Street #02-10 Singapore 079027
Tel: +65 6443 1727
Opening Hours: 11am – 9:30pm (Sun – Thurs), 11am – 10pm (Fri – Sat)
Last order half hour before closing

Menya Kokoro – Suntec City
Eat At Seven Suntec City, 3 Temasek Boulevard #03-313 Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 6235 3386
Opening Hours: 11am – 3pm, 5:30pm – 9:30pm (Mon – Thurs), 11am – 3pm, 5:30pm – 10pm (Fri), 11am – 10pm (Sat), 11am – 9:30pm (Sun)
Last order half hour before closing

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Menya Kokoro.

It was only a matter a time. The first purple-rice yogurt drink specialty shop has finally arrived in Singapore.

You can get your hands on this trendy drink at Yanmi Yogurt, with its first-ever outlet in Singapore nested at Funan Level 2.

“Yan” (颜) represents “beauty” while “Mi” (米) means “rice”.

If you love to both drink and chew on your beverage, and are in search for a healthier alternative, then this is the answer.

When I was in Sydney earlier this year, I asked my foodie friends to bring me to the “most trending café” in the city. Little did I expect them to bring me to a purple-rice yogurt shop.

And they emphasized, this is not bubble tea (even though it is easy to see why there could be an association).

There were no less than 10 shops in the city selling this popular drink, with long queues and wait for creamy drinks made with yogurt, included with purple rice, and fruit toppings from strawberry to mangoes.

You can already kind of imagine how it would taste like – creamy, slightly sweet-and-tart yogurt, with grains of soft purple-rice to be slurped up the straw.

Reasons why the drinks were so well-received: they were fresh-tasting and refreshing; a healthier alternative to much sweet beverages; and helped in digestion after meals (all that probiotics in the yogurt).

Yanmi Yogurt uses purple rice specially imported from Mojiang – located south of Yunnan Province and known for producing purple rice rich in protein, calcium and other trace elements.

The grains are larger and longer than usual, coloured purple-black, and tastes sweet with an agreeable stickiness.

The rice is prepared through ten industrial steps, from soaking, boiling, filtering to steaming for hours to create the perfect chewy texture.

Fresh yogurt made with Australian milk is then included, with options of including fresh fruits (look out for not common ones such as dragon fruit and jujube) and other nutritious ingredients such as oats, hawthorn, avocado and taro.

Yanmi Yogurt’s Top 10 offerings include:
– Yanmi’s Purple Rice Yogurt ($4.30)
– Chewy Oats Yogurt ($4.30)
– Haw Purple Rice Yogurt ($4.70)
– Pure Pure! Avocado Yogurt ($5.30)
– Jolly Jujubes Yogurt ($4.30)
– Dirty Dragon Fruit Yogurt ($5.30)
– Man-mango Yogurt ($4.90)
– D24 Durian Yogurt ($5.50)
– Taro N Taro Milk ($5.30)
– Cheese Yogurt ($4.50)

Here’s more:

Yanmi’s Purple Rice Yogurt ($4.30)
For first timers and want something adulterated, go for the classic Yanmi’s Purple Rice Yogurt.

Before drink, share the cup 10 times (remember not to poke the straw in first) to better blend the purple rice and yogurt.

Recommended instructions is that if you let the drink sit for 5 minutes, it will allow the “taste to become enhanced”.

First impressions: it wasn’t as thick and carb-heavy as I initially imagined, with consistency that was almost like a smoothie.

For someone who is trying to refrain from too many sugary stuff, the sweetness level was pleasantly low and mellow. The tart from the yogurt was not too strong as well.

While slurping, you get these QQ bits of purple-rice that is soft which you can slowly chew on.

This can actually be quite filling, so I would recommend taking sips and slowly enjoy it.

Chewy Oats Yogurt ($4.30)
Remember days when overnight oats was all trending?

This is actually quite a close alternative, with fibrous nutritious-dense oats in a light and refreshing yogurt drink.

Dirty Dragon Fruit Yogurt ($5.30)
The recommended drink to have. The base is filled with purple-squashed dragon fruit, with a tropical-sweet taste with slight sourness that goes well with the entire drink.

Give the cup a good shake and watch it turn beautifully vibrant-purple.

Pure Pure! Avocado Yogurt ($5.30)
For avo-lovers, this drink would be simple, delicious, creamy and almost dream-like.

Just a note: because many of us are so used to having versions included with gula melaka, this version would come across a lot more tame and mellow.

Man-mango Yogurt ($4.90)
If you love your Mango Lassi, this would be a real treat for the summer weather. There is the fruity, intense flavours of the mango, and real bits for you to slurp up and chew on.

Other top offerings from Yanmi Yogurt include Jolly Jujubes Yogurt ($4.30), Cheese Yogurt ($4.50), and Taro N Taro Milk Yogurt ($5.30).

The Singapore outlet will also offer an exclusive Durian Yogurt ($5.50), made with D24 durians imported from Malaysia.

The Yanmi Yogurt café in Singapore allows for both takeaways and a sit-down concept, in a pretty-pink and white interior for a drink during a lazy afternoon.

Yanmi Yogurt Opening Promotions
Buy 1 Get 1 Free* from 26 to 28 October 2019 (*2nd drink of equal or lower value for free)

Exclusive Yanmi Yogurt tote bag for the first 20 customers with a minimum purchase of 4 drinks from 26 October 2019 onwards, while stocks last.

Yanmi Yogurt
Funan, #02-03, 107 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 179105
Opening Hours: 10:30am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/yanmiyogurt

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Yanmi Yogurt.

[Tokyo] Renowned for serving Tokyo’s most beautiful and fluffiest pancakes (more known as hotcakes in Japan), Ginza West has 3 locations: Aoyama Garden, Bay Café Yokohama, and the Ginza Parlour.

However, the hotcakes are available only at Aoyama Garden and Bay Café Yokohama.

I learnt it the ‘hard way’ as I visited the Ginza Parlour outlet, but was recommended to try the French Toast (¥1,188, SGD14.90) instead. No regrets at all.

A little more about Ginza West: it began in 1947 serving 1,000 Yen course meals prepared by a chef from Yusen, a luxury cruise liner.

After half year, city regulations started to ban menus over 75 yen so Ginza downsized to a tea parlour with a confectionery section.

It became known as the place where cultured people got together since it started “Meikyoku no yuu”, an innovative musical program with interpretation.

It was in the 60s when it began selling packaged cookies to exclusive Japanese restos. Today, these handmade cookies are one of the main products at Ginza West and have grown in selections.

Aside from their hotcakes, they have a wide array of cakes, pies, and handmade cookies made without artificial flavourings not colourings. Leaf Pie, Sablest, Victoria, and Butter Cookies, Cheese Baton, and Almost Tarts are the most popular cookies and they are available as gift sets.

One of its best-sellers is the Mosaic Cake (¥380, SGD4.80), made out of cocoa and butter sponge shaped into a mosaic.

Ginza Parlour is a no-smoking 52-seater tea parlour located 5 minutes’ walk away from Exit C2 of Ginza Subway Station.

When you look at the shop from the outside, it would appear like just any other cake shop. But its interior was quite differently, presented like a French teahouse.

Somehow the Japanese can make many of their desserts taste quite out-of-this-world. This French Toast happens to be one of them.

While perhaps some would have preferred a light crisp on the outside, the texture was impossibly pillow-soft. With its strong milky and egg taste (almost like castella), the piece just almost melted-in-the-mouth.

I only added a touch of the maple syrup as I wanted to just appreciate the toast on its own.

The other one thing good about the parlour that it is one of the few dessert and coffee/tea places still opened this late in the Ginza area during the weekday, until 11pm.

Ginza West
7-3-6 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Tel: +81 3-3571 1554
Opening Hours: 9am – 11pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 8pm (Sat – Sun & PH)

Other Related Entries
Katsuzen (Ginza, Tokyo)
Ginza Tenkuni (Ginza, Tokyo)

Click HERE for other Tokyo Food Entries

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook and Instagram for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

[Bali, Indonesia] Finding the ‘perfect’ brunch spot in Bali the “Island of Gods” can be tricky, as you may be lead to some of the “overrated” or “overpriced” cafés.

Sometimes, it can be both.

Crumb & Coaster, tucked away in tiny alley away from the bustling Kuta, is one of the well-received gems for brunch.

The home-grown shop started with a small specialty coffee shop in the Kuta area, using local products and produce, and turned it into a brunch and dinner restaurant with support.

Though the café-restaurant is always packed, the waiting time is considered relatively short.

The menu is pretty extensive, ranging from fruit bowls, salads and pancakes to burgers and even corn fritters.

If you are here for breakfast and brunch, it is available from 7:30am – 3pm, offering items such as Sweet Corn Fritter (65k), Avocado Mash (65k), Egg Benedict (60k), Spinach Feta Peas (65k), Salmon & Dill Bagel (75k), Zucchini Omelette (70k), and Pancakes (75k), and Coffee French Toast (75k).

For drinks, choose from juices, smoothies, kombucha, refreshing fizz, or freshly brewed coffees.

Since it was a sunny day in Bali, I needed something refreshing and ordered the Smoothie Bowl (IDR 85k, SGD8.50) recommended by the waiter.

Presentation wise, it was really colorful, and I hope that it would also score taste wise.

Thankfully the Smoothie had the right texture – neither too thick nor watery; and fruits were indeed fresh and sweet.

While I was seated, one particular dish that caught my attention (both in terms of sight and smell) was the Coffee French Toast (IDR 75k, SGD7.50), as every other table seemed to have ordered it.

You would have missed that obvious sweet-coffee aroma.

The French Toast had beautiful caramelisation on both sides, complemented by coffee custard which was aromatic and went really well with the maple syrup.

Easily one of the best French toast I ever tasted.

The Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich (IDR 75k, SGD7.50) came in a huge ‘American-sized’ portion -crispy-battered and juicy on the inside. Fries were delightfully crisp as well.

To quench my thirst, I ordered and Instant Refresher (IDR 49k, SGD4.90) made from fresh apple and watermelon juice with a hint of mint.

While more on the sour side, at least it was refreshing.

While the Carrot Cake (IDR 45k, SGD 4.50) looked dry in, it was actually quite moist. (So can’t judge by appearance alone here).

Ordering a cake wouldn’t be complete without some coffee Long Black (IDR 30k, SGD3.00) and Flat White (IDR 35k, SGD3.50).

I loved that they provides some bite sized Anzac biscuit for every coffee order.

This is definitely one place where you would want to visit again and again.

Great vibes, good foods, huge portions and friendly staff. No doubt this probably the best brunch spot I visited in Bali so far.

Plus the venue is very instagrammable, ticking off most of the boxes.

Crumb & Coaster
Jl. Benesari No.2, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Tel: +62 819 9959 6319
Opening Hours: 7:30am – 11pm (Mon – Sun)
Google Maps – Crumb & Coaster

* Written by DFD͛’s Jakarta Food Correspondent @iknowhowtoeat who loves exploring NEW food places in both Indonesia and Singapore. DFD pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Do you know that Singapore is the ONLY country in the world where you can find different flavours of Yakult?

The globally popular probiotic drink Yakult was first manufactured in Japan and introduced to the market in 1935.

Today, it is consumed by people in 40 countries and regions around the world every day. It is Japan’s #1 selling beverage overseas.

With his passion in preventive medicine, founder Dr. Minoru Shirota discovered that lactobacilli were effective in suppressing harmful bacteria within the intestines. Named after him, the Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota is made into a drink by adding billions of it to fermented skim milk solution – a drink we now know as Yakult.

If you’ve been drinking Yakult, you do know it helps maintain a healthy digestive system. But here are 10 things you probably never knew about this well-loved drink:

Singapore is the only country with different flavours of Yakult
The manufacturing process of Yakult is standard for all countries, yet the Yakult available in Singapore has more variety of flavours.

Did you know that it is the only country with grape, orange, and apple flavoured Yakult?

Yes, ONLY Singapore. (This makes me feel special.)

As part of the process, the concentrated Yakult is transferred to a mixing tank where it is diluted with sterilised water, and later proceed to make into different flavours.

Grape is my favourite. How about you?

Different countries have different bottle sizes
The Yakult we now know has its origins in a lab vial, and thus sold in glass bottles during 1935-1967.

In 1968, Japanese designer Isamu Kenmochi was commissioned to design the bottle. Inspired by the Japanese Kokeshi dolls, he created a unique, timeless, practical, and award-winning design.

The plastic (polystyrene) bottles are made by a moulding machine at the speed of 7000 bottles per hour. But did you know that different countries have different bottle sizes?

Yakult comes in size of 65ml bottle in countries such as Japan, Indonesia, Australia, Europe, New Zealand, Vietnam and India, while in America, Thailand, South Korea, Philippines and Malaysia, they come in 80ml bottles.

Over in Singapore, serving size for Yakult is 100ml (similar to China, Taiwan and Hong Kong), the ‘biggest’ in the world.

(Click HERE for video of “One day in the life of a Yakult Lady”.)

Yakult engages ladies to sell their products door-to-door to homes and even offices
Yakult distributes its products in 2 ways: direct sales (i.e. supermarkets, shops and convenience stores) and home delivery. This unique door-to-door home delivery system was launched in 1963 by engaging Yakult Ladies.

Yakult Ladies deliver the products personally to people in communities they have deep ties to. They also act as a “regional health advisor” offering info about probiotics. They do these with a smile.

In Japan, there are approx. 34,900 Yakult Ladies (as of March 31, 2018) and approx. 46,600 Yakult Ladies in overseas operations (as of December 31, 2017).

In Singapore, Home Delivery Service started in 1986 and is available free of charge in most public housing estates including some private housing estates.

Thanks to the Yakult Ladies, you and your family can have Yakult conveniently delivered to your home.

In Japan, more types of Yakult are sold for different purposes
Did you know that Japan has a variety of products for different purposes?

As a pioneer in probiotics, Yakult has created many kinds of fermented milk drinks, ie Yakult 400 (40 billion per 80ml bottle), Yakult 400LT (reduced sweetness and fewer calories than Yakult 400), New Yakult (20 billion per 65ml bottle), New Yakult Calorie Half (50% fewer calories than New Yakult), and many more.

Joie (read: Jo-wa) is a fermented milk, with higher calcium and vitamin D content, meant for the small intestine. It comes in 2 different forms – drinkable yoghurt and spoonable yoghurt. Sofuhl is a dessert yogurt containing L. casei strain Shirota, and Sofuhl Genki Yogurt has added iron and calcium. Pretio is for those with high-blood pressure.

For busy people on the go, Mainichi Nomu Yakult (30 billion per 100ml bottle) is ideal with moderate sweetness and zero fat.

It also has a range of drinks with Bifidobacterium breve strain Yakult which is meant for the large intestine, including Mil-Mil (12 billion B. breve strain Yakult per 100ml carton) and Mil-Mil S which has galacto-oligosaccharides and dietary fibre.

Yakult Japan also has functional beverages such as energy drinks with Korean ginseng (Toughman series, introduced 1980), drinks that suppresses sugar absorption (Bansoreicha, introduced 1998), and drinks for those with dairy allergies (Yakult no Oishii Hakko Kajitsu, introduced 2018).

They even have a fermented soy milk drink! Yakult no Hakko Tonyu contains L. casei strain Shirota and soy isoflavones in a single product.

The range has expanded to hand soaps, instant noodles and beyond.

Yakult in Japan has also introduced beauty products
Did you know that Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd. also creates beauty products? Dr. Shirota discovered that L. casei strain Shirota also play a role in protecting the skin and mucous membranes.

Aside from make-up and basic skin care products, it also produces hair and body care products using original moisturising ingredients.

The company believes that internal/external beauty and good intestinal health help produce a beautiful, healthy skin.

In 2006, the name of Yakult’s brand of cosmetics is changed to Yakult Beautiens.

In Japan, there are approx. 4,760 Yakult Beauty Advisors (as of March 31, 2018) who personally deliver cosmetics to customers. Like the Yakult Ladies, Yakult Beauty Advisors are well-trained in beauty care.

It is part of many Japanese schools to have Yakult for lunch
Did you know that Yakult is a staple part of the Japanese school cafeteria, and students have it for lunch?

They can drink Yakult anytime because it is a foodstuff. Yakult bacteria strain is specially cultured and strengthened biotechnologically to withstand gastric juice and bile acid, to reach our intestines alive. And when they’re alive, that’s when they are powerful.

Unlike junk food with empty calories, Yakult is not fattening since skim milk is used. It contains probiotic, L. casei strain Shirota, that can help in digestion and promote nutrient absorption from food.

It was interesting to watch how Japanese school students distribute lunch on their own (without the help of teachers), so that they learn more about leadership, service, sharing and other important life skills.

Yakult For Kids’ Meals
Talking about the young ones, you can sometimes find Yakult as part of the kids’ menu in Singapore.

Well-known Japanese restaurant chain Ichiban Boshi offers a bottle of Yakult with each of their kids’ meal. Their sets include the Hero (tomato flavoured rice with corn, fried chicken, fried prawn), Turbo Jet (with sweet beancurd sushi, maki sushi, pork sausage, chicken patty) and Vroom Vroom (half udon with seaweed, chicken nuggets, pumpkin croquette).

Over at Korean restaurant Yoogane, a bottle is accompanied with a kids’ set from chicken sausages with scrambled eggs, tuna rice balls with fries, and chicken karaage with fries and butter corn.

There is a “Yakult” Chanpon Restaurant In Tokyo That Offers Free Yakult
Located at the basement of the Yakult Headquarters Building at Shimbashi (which is near Ginza), there is a hidden yet popular Japanese restaurant called “Misato” which many business people and locals head to.

They specialise in Chanpon (sometimes called “Champon”) and other Japanese dishes such as Mixed Fry and Japanese Curry.

Chanpon is a type of ramen noodle dish, cooked by frying slices of meat (usually pork), seafood and loads of vegetables together with pork and chicken bones stock. Priced at 880 Yen here, portions are HUGE.

Interesting to note that Monday is “Yakult Day”, so diners get a FREE bottle.

Needless to say, their unconventional beverage menu is made up of a variety of Yakult drinks from Kininaru Yasai 100 (fruit and vegetable juice), Chosei Tonyu Kokusandaizu Shiyo (soy bean milk), Toughman to Kurozu drinks.

Recycling efforts: Yakult bottles are recycled in Japan, and some countries have removed straws
As a company, Yakult takes its Corporate Social Responsibility programs seriously in accordance with Japan’s Containers and Packaging Recycling Act.

Containers and packaging-related waste generated at Yakult plants and bottling companies is sorted by material, then recycled.

The polystyrene resin recovered from the Yakult plastic bottles are used to manufacture frames for personal computers and audio equipment, rulers, bottle openers, etc. If you join a plant tour in Japan, you may even get one of those rulers or bottle openers as a giveaway!

Over in Singapore, straws have also been removed from the packaging.

Get Yakult Ace Light if you want to enjoy health benefits of probiotics with lower sugar
For those who want health benefits of probiotics but strictly watching their sugar intake, Yakult Ace Light is a good option.

An 80ml bottle of Yakult Ace Light has 30 billion L. casei strain Shirota, is specially made for those who want more good bacteria (it has 3x the amount of a regular Yakult) but want a refreshingly light taste.

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Yakult.

Situated right beside Curious Palette along Prinsep Street, the new Communal Coffee is a café that operates during the day.

It occupies the same space as Stage Music Bar, which operates as a bar at night.

You would have probably visited this area in the past for either Minds Café for board game nights or Strictly Pancakes, which unfortunately closed down for good.

There may be slight confusion as there are several cafes with similar names, from Community Coffee (Far East Plaza), The Communal Place (Joo Chiat), and The Communal (Jalan Besar).

Communal Coffee was inspired by the concept of communal living in the city. They boast coffee certified by the Specialty Coffee Association and alcohol infused desserts.

The place has both indoor and outdoor seating, suitable for casual brunches and small group get-togethers.

Since Communal Coffee shares a space with Stage Music Bar, the interior is relatively dark and you definitely get bar vibes from this place.

I would highly recommend sitting outside. Despite Singapore’s hot weather, the outdoor seating was really comfortable (that’s if you’re able to get a sheltered seat).

The Flat White ($5.50) was made using a blend of beans, which explained why it tasted slightly different from cafes that use a single blend. I thoroughly enjoyed the coffee.

They also serve Coffee Cocktails such as Black Whisky ($18.80) which is essentially a Long Black with Whisky, Espresso Martini ($18.80) and a Coffee Stout Affogato ($16.80).

The All-Day Brunch Menu offered here is similar to most of the cafes in Singapore, such as a Big Breakfast ($22.80) and Classic Egg Benedict ($18.80). Some of the other recommended food include B&B Waffles, Classic Carbonara, Sunny Egg Croque Madame, and Yummie Sarnie.

I had the Happy Days Sandwich ($18.80) which was essentially an open-faced sandwich served with breaded chicken and cranberry sauce.

The chicken could have been slightly thicker and better marinated. The cranberry sauce combination was interesting, but it didn’t have that “wow” factor.

The Lychee Martini Waffles ($15.80) which I expected to be served with Lychee Martini ice-cream was actually served with vanilla ice-cream.

What I really liked was how they chopped fresh lychee and served it together with the waffles.

At least they managed to make the waffles crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, which I appreciated.

So where’s the alcohol? It was drizzled on top of the waffles together with some caramel sauce. Slightly lacking on the martini-factor but overall a great rendition of waffles from Communal Coffee.

They have other alcohol infused waffles such as Banana Rum ($14.80) and Bailey’s & Cream ($15.80)

Communal Coffee
60 Prinsep Street Singapore 188664
Tel: 9664 1141
Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm (Mon – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/communalcoffeesg/

* Written by DFD’s Café Correspondent @__sy_g. Songyu is a food and travel blogger whose hobby is uncovering hidden hipster cafes. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Good stuff seems to name after TWO – in Singapore we have Two Bakers, Two Men Bagel House, Two Chefs, Two Blur Guys, Two Wings, and now Two Cranes.

Inspired by Korean Café Scene, Two Cranes is a neighbourhood café found in Kovan which serves a focused selection of Korean-themed food, bingsu dessert and hand-crafted beverages.

Apparently in Korean culture, cranes are viewed as iconic creatures which symbolizes good fortune and longevity.

So much so that there is even a crane portrait embedded on the back of the 500 Korean won coin.

What makes them “Korean”?

Their hand-crafted beverages were what first caught my attention.

Apart from the usual latte and cappuccino suspects, there were a range of coffee and tea mocktails served in sleek beverage glasswares, which improves the visual aesthetics and Korean-ish vibes.

Reminded me of the times when I was at back at Bunkasha in Seoul.

Their signature coffee mocktail, Wonda-fu Drink ($6) was a potent mix concocted from espresso shot, coffee jelly and mint leaves served in a cocktail glass.

It was rather sweet with coffee aroma and had a lingering scent of mint. I liked this drink, but my dining companions had mixed opinions about it.

The other two more acceptable options to them were the Sunset Cold Brew Tonic ($6) & Yuzu Cold Brew Cream ($6) which were fruitier in flavour.

While my perception of ade is usually associated to sweet carbonated water, the Chamomile Lime Ade ($6) took me by pleasant surprise.

At first sip, it was rather just citrusy lime and at subsequent sips, the Chamomile tea flavour came as an aftertaste.

Their food menu revolves around Korean food, with noodles and rice offerings such as Jjajangmyeon ($10), Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles) and Bibimbap.

I went for the 8 Treasures Rice Bibimbap ($12) which came with an assortment of ingredients such as spicy chicken carrots, spinach, mushrooms topped with gochujang dressing and sesame oil.

Generally, I find bibimbap can hardly ever goes wrong. My only qualm is that it is too ordinary and can be easily replicated at home.

The serving staff then recommended me their Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles) ($10) which came with a generous serving of chewy buckwheat noodles served in chilled pear broth, which I found slightly underwhelming due to lack of flavour.

There were also some Korean-inspired brunch dishes such as Spicy Dakgalbi with Scrambled Eggs ($13.50), Poached Eggs with Flambé Champignons ($13.50) and Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings ($12)

While Korean bingsu may be considered passé (to some), their flavours such as Tea Bingsu ($12) and Caramel Macchiato Bingsu ($13.50) are made using tea and coffee syrup concocted using their in-house blend.

What caught my attention was the locally inspired Pulut Hitam Bingsu ($12) which came with snow-like ice shavings topped with black glutinous rice, condensed milk, oreo and crushed almond bits.

I think it is a great idea, but execution could probably be improved by doing away with oreo bits and perhaps addition of coconut milk to add more depth to its flavour.

Overall, I liked the cosy ambience at Two Cranes and they have managed to leave an impression on their hand-crafted beverages, but some work needs to go into fine-tuning of their food menu to stay true to the “Korean” branding.

Two Cranes
Blk 211 Hougang Street 21 #01-291, Singapore 530211
Opening Hours: 8.30am – 10pm (Mon – Sun), Closed Tues
https://www.facebook.com/twocranes.sg/

* Written by Lewis Tan @juicyfingers, a self-proclaimed coffee addict. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

While I was walking towards River South (Hoe Nam) Prawn Noodle (Lao Zhong Zhong Eating House is also just opposite), I spotted a gelato café a few shops away.

Gelato cafes seem to be making a small comeback, with many new café concepts opening up in the heartlands such as One Stone Three Birds at Clementi, Wishes Café at Macpherson, Denzy at Bishan and OCD Café at Ang Mo Kio.

Started by 3 fresh graduates from SMU and with an Italy-trained chef handcrafting fresh gelato flavours daily, I think Sweet Cheeks Gelato does have some differentiating factors.

If you need coffee, there is a selection of the usual such as Latte ($5), Cappuccino ($5), Mocha ($6) as well as Cold Brews.

Sweet Cheeks Gelato offer a number of classic favourites such as Hazelnut with Nutella Swirl and Honeycomb, Sweet Cheeks, and also stocks less conventional options like Cinnamon Brown Bread, Coconut Mango Sorbet, Ricotta with Pistachio as well as Honey Chrysanthemum with Cacao Nibs.

Well, Chrysanthemum with Cacao Nibs may just remind you of … Birds Of Paradise?

The standard flavours such as Honeycomb, Cereal Milk and Banana Hot Fudge goes for $3.70 per scoop; while premium flavours of Coconut Mango, Cinnamon Brown Bread, Fleur De Cao Dark Chocolate, and Lemon Curd with Speculoos are sold at $4.70 per scoop.

For people who love some added textures and crunch in your ice cream (well Ben & Jerry’s style), then you could enjoy ingredients such as honeycomb biscuits, fresh coconut milk, house-made toasted brown bread, and roasted pistachio bits added within varied flavours.

To be honest, waffles seem to be trending a few years back but not quite so anymore, and I am kind of ‘waffle-jadded’ after having a number of so-so ones.

So Sweet Cheeks Gelato’s Waffle ($5.80) was surprisingly delicious and fairly different. There was a pleasant sweet crisp exterior (crispier than usual), and the inside was quite fluffy.

My only qualm was that with a honey drizzle base and ice cream on the sweeter side, the overall combination could work better with some reduction on sugar levels.

The ice cream I had which was the Honey Chrysanthemum with Cacao Nibs was creamy and sticky, rich in flavours compared to the other known brand. Not too bad at all.

Sweet Cheeks Gelato
37 Tai Thong Crescent Singapore 347862 (Potong Pasir MRT)
Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm (Sun – Thurs), 12pm – 1am (Fri – Sat)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Founded in Hong Kong, Social Place is a retro-chic contemporary tea house imbued with nostalgic touches from olden Hong Kong days, which serves an innovative spread of Chinese fares and Dim Sum offerings.

Located at Forum The Shopping Mall, Singapore is their first overseas outpost since their first establishment in 2014.

Upon stepping into the restaurant, you will be greeted with sleek modern interior accompanied with fun vibrant elements such as, using ping pong table for dining and a whole mural wall made up of mah-jong tiles.

I secretly hope that by touching the mural wall, the mah-jong aura would bless me with some “huat”.

Couple of years back, I remembered patronizing their store at Central and was pretty much sold by their creative food offerings and table cutleries embedded with houseflies and ants design.

They were probably the OG innovators for the now already available dishes in Singapore such as Flaming Pineapple, Fried Chicken Pieces with Chillies served in Nest, and Truffle Mushroom Buns.

A quick scan of their menu and I spotted a few familiar dishes from Hong Kong such as Rose Floret Bun ($1.80 per pc), Pig Buns filled with Yam ($2.80 per pc), Century Eggs in Silken Tofu ($9.80) and Flaming Pineapple with Beef ($28).

Unfortunately, some of my personal favourites such as the Jar of Ginger Chicken and Aged Balsamic Chicken Wings were not available on Singapore menu.

I went for their signature Roasted Quail ($9.90) and was served with two petite-sized quail glazed with honey coating. The meat itself was flavourful with spices, but the texture was slightly tough for my liking.

The Sweet & Sour Pork on Ice ($24.80) was an eye-catching dish served with fuming dry ice smoke. I think it was a relatively decent plate of sweet and sour pork with each piece of fried pork pieces lavishly coated with tangy dressing, and yet I could still taste some slight crispiness embedded within.

My dining companions then commented, “Isn’t it the same as “Gu Lou Yok” just that it is cold.”

Not too sure if the chilling process was supposed to alter the taste profile, but apparently it didn’t make much difference to us.

What left an impression was their Pork Sliders ($14.80) aka Chinese Kong Bak Pao which came with a slice of tender braised fatty pork meat sandwiched in between soft fluffy buns which literally melts in your mouth.

I also liked how they added sourish pickled vegetables in the bun to ease some greasy feeling from after consuming fatty food.

Also worth a mention was their Beetroot Fried Rice ($16.80) that came in bright shades of pink and topped with almond slices and diced prawns. While it wasn’t mind-blowing, I enjoyed its subtle balanced flavour which may appeal to older generation.

For desserts, the adorable Small Pig Pudding ($6.80 per pc) which jiggle with every shake would probably captivate your heart. Would you bear to eat it?

Mah-jong fanatics like me would go for the Mah-jong Jelly ($6.80) which came with a set of 6 coconut jelly. Since they originate from Hong Kong, I felt that the tiles combination should at least be meaningful with proper combinations rather than just randomized tiles.

Since my expectations were benchmarked from Social Place Hong Kong, I was slightly disappointed with some of the food taste and execution.

But for first timers, Social Place Singapore would probably satisfy those who are looking for fun and innovative food creations.

Social Place Singapore
Forum The Shopping Mall, #01-22, 583 Orchard Road, Singapore 238884
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

* Written by Lewis Tan @juicyfingers, a self-proclaimed coffee addict. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

From Chengdu Restaurant comes a concept that will please hotpot lovers seeking authentic Sichuan and Cantonese flavours.

That means, your tongue and lips got to get ready for some numbing sensation. Nope, not just mala, but Chengdu Green Pepper Broth as well.

Introducing the brand-new Taikoo Lane Hotpot 太古里火锅, a hotpot restaurant nestled right in Chinatown Point (basement 1 next to Uniqlo).

Famed for its deliciously numbing Sichuan cuisine, Chengdu Restaurant has tapped its culinary team to craft a menu of broths in different flavours, and a bevy of unique ingredients – not quite the usual stuff you would find in a typical hotpot restaurant.

At Taikoo Lane Hotpot, diners can have a choice of either individual pots for a more customized experience, or share a large pot among family and friends.

Whether you prefer to dine solo or as a group, you can find the best arrangement here.

Don’t have time to linger over a steaming hotpot meal? You can also find quicker lunch specials here from $9.90 onwards.

Ready for their line-up of Sichuan and Cantonese broths? Here they are:

Sichuan Spicy Broth ($5)
Start off with Taikoo Lane’s version of the spicy Sichuan broth. While other hotpots use oil, Taikoo Lane Hotpot’s version uses the more traditional beef tallow.

What you will encounter is a mala broth that is much more flavourful than oil-based broths.

Aside from the essential beef tallow, 20 different spices plus an array of aromatics come together to create a flavour powerhouse. Tangerine peel, bay leaves, thyme, luo han guo (monk fruit), and high-grade peppers are just some of them.

If you don’t normally take mala food, then this may prove to be quite a challenge in terms of the spice level.

Chengdu Green Pepper Broth ($5)
Another premium mala broth for spice fans is the brand-new Chengdu Green Pepper Broth. If you are bored of the usual mala and want to try something different, this would be a refreshing change.

Inspired by the Fish with Green Peppercorn Soup, a best-seller from Chengdu Restaurant, the broth takes two Sichuan-specialty ingredients (peppercorn oil and green peppercorns) and makes them the soup’s bedrock of flavour.

The peppercorns imported from the Sichuan province, are fried over low heat with small chilies, minced garlic and fermented soy bean sauce.

The potent mixture is added to superior soup stock which is boiled for hours.

Collagen Nourishing Pork Bone Soup ($5)
Superbly tasty and nourishing, the collagen-rich Pork Bone Soup is a popular choice especially of those who want a Hong Kong-style hotpot.

This broth, typically offered by traditional charcoal furnace HK hotpots, combines pork bones, whole chicken, pig skin and lots of other ingredients.

Together, they are poached to extract essential flavours, then cooked for more than 7 hours. This method yields that rich, gelatinous, and delightfully milky consistency.

So if you want to pick a ‘safe’, delicious choice of hotpot base, this would be it.

Other broths you can look forward to here include the Low-Calorie Tomato Soup, Fish Soup Broth with Fresh Milk, Golden Treasures Broth, Umami Mushroom Broth and Pumpkin Millet Soup.

Taikoo Lane Hotpot’s unique ingredients and dishes:
Moving on to the unique ingredients with pricing starting from $3.80 per item, recommended dishes here include the Lobster Noodles, Magical Growing Mushrooms, Spicy Marinated Beef and Spanish Iberico Black Pork Collar.

1. Lobster Noodles ($39.80)
A tribute to the popular Hong Kong dish, the Lobster Noodles is but one of the smorgasbord of unique hotpot ingredients here.

As a DIY dish, it allows you to cook the lobster and noodles together in one broth for a unified flavour.

Or dunk them in two separate soups to create your own pairing of flavours.

Once cooked, toss them together in the provided special sauce and condiments (ie add some sesame sauce and spring onions) and enjoy. Really quite delicious.

2. Magical Growing Mushrooms ($9.80)
A sight to behold, these mushrooms do magically ‘grow’ before your very eyes.

Beautifully arranged garden-like with lettuce, tomatoes and eggs, these Magical Growing Mushrooms are delicate, long-stemmed snowy enoki mushrooms. Just water them and wait for magic to happen.

Make your meal memorable with this mildly flavoured fungus, a culinary spectacle in tasteful proportions.

3. Shrimp Skewer ($12.80)
If you’re a shrimp lover, the Shrimp Skewer is a must. Along with the skewered deshelled prawns comes the flexibility in flavour – half are marinated in Cajun spices and steamed, half are unseasoned and raw.

This way, you can treat your palate to different flavours. Savour that natural shrimp sweetness as you cook them in plainer hotpot soup, say the Pork Bone or Fish Soup.

4. Seafood Balls Lollipop ($9.00)
This tri-coloured lollipop combines a spectrum of seafood flavours in a fun, little seafood ball-like paste.

Begin with the Prawn-Flavoured Ball with Fish Roe, before trying out the Seafood Ball enhanced with savoury Squid Ink.

Finally, sink your teeth in the bouncy Sea Urchin Flavoured Ball with that delicate sweet sea flavour.

5. Spicy Marinated Beef ($18.80)
Meat lovers will be spoilt for choice of all the meats you desire for a satisfying hotpot. Your Sichuan hotpot experience won’t be complete without the Spicy Marinated Beef.

Its deep flavours come from the rich marinade, prepared with sugar, pepper and starch.

For that brazen heat, they dust the meat with fiery red pepper flakes, chili powder, pepper, and other aromatic spices. NOT for the faint-hearted.

6. Meatballs Platter ($8.40 for half portion, $16.80 for full portion)
I think that no hotpot meal is complete without some meatballs. Other than handmade Fish Balls, Fish Balls with roe, and handmade Beef balls, go for the Meatballs and Prawnball Platter.

This includes a combination of succulent-sweet Prawnballs, meaty Beefballs, and Porkballs added with chives.

7. Spanish Iberico Black Pork Collar ($17.80)
Both a visual and gustatory treat, the rose-shaped slices of Iberico black pork are another recommended hotpot ingredient to order.

Imagine the transformation of that well marbled pork collar as soon as it sinks into your aromatic soup of choice.

You get not only the succulence it promises but also its complex, intense flavour that is good on its own without any sauces.

8. Braised Beef Short Ribs ($6.80)
Try their Braised Beef Short Ribs generously marinated with over 10 spices and condiments. The fresh slices of beef are soaked in a blend cooking wine, soya sauce, salt, sugar and other aromatics.

Feel free to sprinkle some red pepper flakes to increase the spice-o-meter.

Recommended to dunk in the Sichuan Spicy Broth or Chengdu Green Pepper Broth for a short while to absorb some of that essence.

9. Fried Spiced Beef ($16.80)
Another meat option is the famous street food-style dish Fried Spiced Beef. Customarily served in Sichuan during summer, the beef’s flavour is anchored to the popular Chinese five-spice as a foundation of its marinade.

Once all the spices have seeped into the meat, it is deep-fried until golden brown.

You can even mix things up, adding a layer of flavour to your broth by dropping in pieces of these fried spiced beef.

10. Ice Jelly with Milk Tea ($6.80)
After bowlfuls of hotpot, cleanse your palate with a refreshing Ice Jelly with Milk Tea. The milk tea component is an upgrade of the traditional ice jelly dessert, often served in Sichuan hotpot restaurants as a fitting, cold conclusion to a fiery feast.

Taste how the rich and aromatic tea infusion has elevated the overall flavour.

For families with children, there is a kids’ play area so that you can enjoy your meal while the little ones get themselves occupied.

Another plus point is that the sauces and condiments (and fruits) provided at the bar-counter is complimentary with every hotpot order – no additional charge!

Taikoo Lane Hotpot 太古里火锅 X DanielFoodDiary.com (DFD) Exclusive Promotions
Promo 1: Enjoy 30% OFF all ala carte food items.
Promo 2: Get one FREE soup base per diner, up to a maximum of 4 complimentary soup bases per table.

T&C:
– Valid for dine-in only.
– Valid from 1 to 30 November 2019.
– Prior reservations recommended (+65 6970 0966). Please quote “DFD” promo during reservation.
– Not valid in conjunction with other discounts, promotion, vouchers, and other offers.
– The management reserves the right to amend the terms & conditions as necessary.

Taikoo Lane Hotpot 太古里火锅
Chinatown Point, 133 New Bridge Rd, B1-16, Singapore 059413
Tel: +65 6970 0966
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/Taikoolane

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Taikoo Lane Hotpot.

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