Let me tell you a secret (ok it’s no longer one if you had seen my IG stories). I brought my baby to a bar. Well, not just any bar, but a gastrobar that specializes in bespoke cocktails. Not only that, this place is fast gaining popularity as foodies in Singapore have caught wind of the affordably priced 12-course omakase menu at just $68++ per person. That’s FORT by Maison Ikkoku for you! Located at the top of Fort Canning Hill within Pinacothèque De Paris, FORT is a cosy 30-seater space that takes in two seatings every night, at 6.30pm and 8.30pm. I would love to occupy a seat by the bar counter to watch all the magic unfold, if it wasn’t for the fact that I had to keep an eye on the little one in the stroller.
The suave and youthful-looking Executive Chef cum Senior Master Mixologist, Ethan Leslie Leong, is also the Executive Director of Maison Ikkoku and FORT. He is renowned for his mixology skills and major brands such as CHANEL, Mont Blanc, Guess, Giorgio Armani, Diesel, Polo Ralph Lauren, Viktor & Rolf, agnès b and Penhaligon’s have chosen to collaborate with him to design bespoke cocktails to showcase during prestigious events.
I had the pleasure of watching Ethan’s sidekick in action that evening. Matteo Cadeddu is an award winning mixologist from Italy and holds the title of Head Mixologist at FORT, where bespoke cocktails start from $23++. Matteo will come up with something interesting based on your preferences and if the drink is not up to your expectation, you can request to have it changed at no extra cost, although I think it’s unlikely to happen.
I asked for something sweet, while misterchewy was leaning towards a savory choice. I would say that my Raspberry with Sake is a pretty safe drink; sweet and fruity. What’s not to like? The hubs was clearly impressed by his Earl Grey with Basil and Miso. Definitely very unique!
If you are not a fan of alcoholic drinks, there’s always mocktails that are equally delicious!
Without further ado, let’s take a sneak peek at some of the dishes we had as part of the Christmas omakase menu, priced at $88++ per person where more premium ingredients will be featured. Do note that the menu changes on a weekly basis, and is also subjected to availability of fresh, quality ingredients. The first course was Braised “Radish” with Konbo which had a slight tinge of bitterness from the radish, coupled with the kelp’s umami taste. Good start to our 12-course meal!
Resting in a bed of delicious Asian dressing made up of soy sauce, ginger, coriander and a drizzle of lime, the Seared Tuna Carpaccio in Asian Touch was injected with a multitude of flavors that made it a joy to devour.
Feast your eyes on this baby sitting atop a cube of ice. For an oyster lover, the Live Irish oyster with Caviar Lime, Salmon Roe, Wasabi Cress, Sake was a real treat! The oyster was plump and meaty, plus the juices packed a wallop!
As harmless as the Signature Fort Roll might look, it actually turned out to be quite fiery with Chef Ethan’s very own chilli sauce blend! Stuffed with spicy maguro, onion sprouts and cucumber, the maki crunched wonderfully with every bite!
The Aburi Salmon Sushi with Ikura was nothing short of amazing. Pop the entire piece into your mouth for that foodgasm experience! I love that the aburi-ed salmon had a light smoky flavor which lent an extra dimension to the overall dish.
It was a brilliant idea to pair truffle with mac and cheese. Both misterchewy and I adored the Truffle Mushroom Mac & Cheese with Black Roe. The pasta was al dente, with just the right amount of creaminess. Our senses were elevated with the addition of truffle!
I love eggs, especially one that had been submerged in hot water to create softy silky egg white and custardy egg yolk. The Free-range Onsen Egg was a good example that lived up to my expectation and more! You are supposed to beat the yolk and mix it in with the whites and garlic oil before slurping all that goodness!
The presentation of the Uni Ikura Donburi took my breath away. It looks just like a mini terrarium, doesn’t it? We were told to mash everything together before taking in a spoonful, which was a little difficult. Would be great if there was some kinda sauce dizzled over this dish. Our overall experience at FORT was truly amazing. Loved the atmosphere and the energetic vibe! FORT is a great place for romantic dates and also boys’ or girls’ night out! I can foresee myself returning to FORT, without the kids of course. FORT is now taking in reservations for the month of December! At $88++ for its festive omakase menu, I would say that it’s very affordable and worth every dollar. Don’t miss out on it!
FORT by Maison Ikkoku
5 Cox Terrace
#01-02/03
Fort Canning Arts Centre
Singapore 179620
Tel: 63360507 / 93877197
Opening Hours:
Daily
4pm – 2am