Ming Kitchen Brings Precious Treasures for a Prosperous 2014

Posted on January 28, 2014 by missuschewy

– Invited Tasting –

Unilever Food Solutions (UFS), one of the world’s top food service companies, provides professional ingredients and services to meet the needs of F&B businesses – from hawker centres to 5-star hotels across Singapore.

UFS is proud to be working together with restaurants to raise awareness of their new dishes. This is especially so with the Zhi Char restaurants who have recently gone into creating innovative dishes for their diners without compromising on flavour and flair. It’s through UFS, fast-paced chefs are given an avenue to be creative and the ability to come up with new and exciting dishes that would get diners come back for more. On top of the usual seasonings/ bouillons/ stock bases that are currently used in zhi char kitchens for Chinese cuisines, i.e. Knorr Concentrated Chicken/ Scallop Bouillon and Knorr Chicken Seasoning Powder, UFS also sells to these restaurants notably Knorr Mashed Potato.

One of the restaurant group partners UFS is working with is Chang Cheng Group. Ming Kitchen, the zhi char chain under the group, with a string of 32 outlets, have prepared a treat for their 2014 Chinese New Year Menu where diners will be able to fill their tummies for a prosperous ‘Horse’ year in 2014.

Dried Oyster stuffed in Prawn Roll/黄金蚝事 (Available in set menu)

The traditional prawn roll, or more familiarly known as ‘hae-cho’, has been recreated to have mixed in dried oysters into the roll’s filling – and then coated with mashed potato flakes like how chefs usually coat cereals when preparing Cereal Prawns. The Knorr Mashed Potato mentioned earlier, is prepared from fresh potatoes and then dehydrated. Instead of adding liquids and seasoning to make it the Western Mashed Potato, Ming Kitchen stir-fried it and added spices to create a coating to wrap the 黄金蚝事. It is distinctly different from fried cereal or oatmeal and is discernible from its texture which is smooth and also has that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.

Abalone Treasure Pot/鲍鱼盆菜 ($168)

The traditional festive dish where many Chinese families have during CNY boasts a slew of fresh and dried seafood such as South African Abalone, Braised Pig’s Trotters, Salted Drumstick, Fish Maw and Dried Oyster, which bodes great fortunate for the family. Chef Desmond has skilfully transformed the base stock of this traditional dish by using UFS’s chicken and scallop stock for a time-efficient prepared dish.

Chinese New Year reunion set menus are priced at $138 and $198 for 6 pax, and range from $198 to $428 for 10 pax. Be the first 100 customers to order the $428 set menu and receive a prosperity gift worth $68.80.

The CNY set menus are available now till 14 February 2014 across all Ming Kitchen outlets. Reserve early to avoid disappointment.

Chinese New Year is this Friday! Be sure to check out Zalora and enjoy massive discounts!
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Ming Kitchen Seafood Restaurant

Reunion Imperial High Tea @ Si Chuan Dou Hua

Posted on January 23, 2014 by missuschewy

– Invited Tasting –

Reasonably priced at $32++ per person, the ever so popular Reunion Imperial High Tea will be available now to 14 February 2014, from 2.30pm to 6pm, at all three Si Chuan Dou Hua branches. This is ideal for friends who wish to catch up and partake in the auspicious Lo-Hei activity together over the Chinese New Year period without bursting the wallet, and yet still be able to enjoy quality dim sum and Chinese tea pairing at the same time.

The oriental 8-course high tea menu features the traditional Yu Sheng and six other handcrafted dim sum items and light bites, before wrapping up on a sweet note with some Nian Gao and glutinous rice balls. Indulge without guilt as the menu is paired with two different premium Chinese brews including Pu Er, a black tea variant that helps to warm the stomach, aid digestion and break down fat, which is particularly beneficial after the festive feasting. The dim sum offerings vary slightly across the three branches.

Toss to greater heights with Si Chuan Dou Hua’s Prosperity Salmon Yusheng with Crispy Fish Skin which is thoughtfully customized according to group size. We had the Ikan Parang fish as a substitute to salmon.

Prepared by smoking a marinated chicken over tea leaves of the camphor plant, the tender and succulent Camphor Tea Smoked Chicken was certainly very aromatic and a great appetite whetter for the remaining dishes to come.

The Double-boiled Seafood Dumpling in Superior Soup was deliciously savory and the seafood dumpling, packed full of ingredients, was a crowd-pleaser.

Couldn’t really taste the wasabi in the Steamed Abalone Dumpling with Wasabi Sauce but it boasted such deliciously clean and delicate flavors, which made me secretly crave for more. It goes well with the accompanying chilli sauce, but I reckon it tastes equally awesome on its own.

The Steamed Fish Ball with Black Moss is possibly made from scratch and was surprisingly very light in taste.

Found it hard to believe that the Deep-fried Radish Puff with Conpoy was crafted by Si Chuan Dou Hua’s male pastry chefs. They look so exquisite and delicate! It’s also worth mentioning that the radish puff remained warm for a very long time.

I love lotus leaf rice and the Fried Rice with Assorted Sausage wrapped in Lotus Leaf surpassed my expectations. The fried rice was very fragrant as it had absorbed the flavor of the lotus leaf. Wash it down with some Longjing tea!

For those with a hearty appetite or require an additional carbo boost, I highly recommend the Si Chuan Dan Dan Noodles ($6.80++ during CNY period) which is not included in the Reunion Imperial High Tea menu. The portion is just nice for one, after all the savory dim sum dishes. The dan dan noodles was enticely spicy enough and the noodles were thin and springy.

I would say that the Glutinous Rice Balls in Chinese Rice Wine is an acquired taste judging by the responses around our table but I’m glad I liked it.

I would prefer the Pan-fried New Year Cake with Glutinous Pearls to be light and fluffy as I found this a little oily and also tough to chew.

NTUC and PAssion Cardmembers enjoy a “1 dines free with 3 accompanying diners” offer at all three outlets.
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Si Chuan Dou Hua
PARKROYAL on Beach Road
7500 Beach Road
Singapore 199591
Tel: 6505 5724
Email:douhua.prsin@parkroyalhotels.com

PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road
181 Kitchener Road, Singapore 208533
Tel: (65) 6428 3170
Fax: (65) 6428 3184
Email:douhua.prskt@parkroyalhotels.com

TOP of UOB Plaza
80 Raffles Place, #60-01 UOB Plaza 1,
Singapore 048624
Tel: (65) 6535 6006
Fax:(65) 6534 5875
Email:top@sichuandouhua.com

Celebrate Spring Time Rhapsody at 10 @ Claymore, Pan Pacific Orchard

Posted on January 21, 2014 by missuschewy

– Invited Tasting –

Embrace Spring and celebrate this Lunar season at Pan Pacific Orchard’s 10 @ Claymore with the Auspicious Plates of Treasure, presenting 8 exquisite seasonal favourites crafted to delight. Served at lunch and dinner on the eve of Chinese New Year, Chinese New Year Day 1 and Chinese New Year Day 2, and at dinner and Sunday brunch on other days, the Auspicious Plates of Treasure is an à la carte buffet featuring petite sized portions prepared à la minute that complements the buffet spread and is crafted to please the discerning gourmand.

Keep tossing for good health and wealth when you dine for dinner or Sunday Brunch from 15 January until 15 February 2014. Enjoy endless servings of Yu Sheng topped with your choice of freshly sliced salmon, tuna or swordfish sashimi from the sashimi counter.

From the Auspicious Plates of Treasure menu, each of us had a bowl of warm and comforting 8 Treasure Broth, accented by sweet notes of pacific blue crab meat and yamabushitake, which was nicely balanced by savoury yunnan ham and textures of sea cucumber and flower mushroom.

The Pacific Cod Blossom drizzled with Imperial mushroom broth was delectable and I particularly liked that the fish was being lightly deep fried while retaining its fleshiness within.

Stuffed in an adorable-looking miniature bamboo basket, the Lotus Rice Harmony of choice abalone, dried scallop and Nagano pork belly was packed with flavor.

Boasting bold flavors, the Sze Chuan Kurobuta Pork was absolutely melt-in-the-mouth tender.

Due to religious reasons, misterchewy and I had the Lobster with Cheese specially prepared for us instead of the Beef Tenderloin in Red Wine Reduction. We could really taste the freshness of the meaty lobster.

What I liked best about the Peddler’s Spicy Prawn Noodle was the rich and sweet-tasting crustacean broth. It really did pack a punch.

10 @ Claymore’s Award Winning Char Kway Teow consists of prawns, cockles and also luxurious pacific blue crab meat.

Also very rich and bold-tasting, the Tamarind Laksa Broth was quite addictive.

On 31st January, 1pm, be at the hotel lobby of Pan Pacific Orchard as there will be a boisterous dance by an accomplished Lion Dance Troupe. Catch them in action as they make a resounding entrance this coming Year of the Horse.

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10 at Claymore
Pan Pacific Orchard
10 Claymore Road
Singapore 229540

Auspicious Plates of Treasure
10 at Claymore
2 January – 28 February
(except 15 January – 15 February)
Dinner $62, Monday to Thursday
Dinner $68, Friday to Saturday
Brunch $72, Sunday

15 January – 15 February (includes unlimited Yu Sheng)
Dinner $62, Monday to Thursday
Dinner $68, Friday to Saturday
Brunch $88, Sunday

Chinese New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year Day 1 & 2
(with Unlimited Yu Sheng)
Lunch: $68*
Dinner: $78*

Reunion Matters
15 January – 15 February
8-course Set Lunch & Dinner
Weekday $988, Weekend $1188
9-course Set Lunch & Dinner
Weekday & Weekend $1388

Bountiful Beginnings at Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant, Sheraton Towers Singapore

Posted on January 17, 2014 by missuschewy

– Invited Tasting –

Named after the famous Tang Dynasty Poet, Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant at Sheraton Towers Singapore is renowned for its exemplary Cantonese cuisine and stringent service standards. This Lunar New Year, treat your loved ones to any one of the 9 Chinese New Year Special Set Menus which are available for lunch and dinner. Each set menu has been thoughtfully designed to cater to various budget and group sizes ranging from minimum of 2 persons to 10 persons. Prices start from $388 for a group of 4.

Having amassed more than 30 years of experience as a chef of Cantonese cuisine in Hong Kong, China and Singapore, Executive Chef Chung Yiu Ming prefers to keep his creations conventional, with a keen emphasis on enhancing the natural flavours and fragrances of every ingredient.

An interesting variation from the usual salmon yu sheng, Li Bai’s Turbot Fish “Yu Sheng Loh Hei” ($68 or $128) is very unique and this fish is specially chosen for auspicious reasons because it sounds like 多宝 in Mandarin, which means “more treasure”.

Resembling halibut, the white broad-bodied European flatfish is slightly translucent and firm to the bite.

Other variations of the Yu Sheng at Li Bai include the Salmon “Yu Sheng Loh Hei” Platter, Ikan Parang & Salmon “Yu Sheng Loh Hei” Platter, Toro & Salmon “Yu Sheng Loh Hei” Platter, and Toro & Lobster “Yu Sheng Loh Hei” Platter. They are available across the 9 different set menus for lunch and dinner.

The taste of the Yu Sheng remains as traditional as it can get. The sweetness of the dressing is nicely balanced out by the slightly bitter-tangy cranberries and pomelo sacs.

I thoroughly enjoyed my bowl of Braised Superior Bird’s Nest with Crabmeat and Crab Roe. Bird’s nest is a Chinese delicacy which is rich in nutrients but subtle in taste. The crab roe gives this dish its overall depth and flavor and I personally think it’s best eaten with chilli padi for that extra oomph.

The lobster is often represented as “dragon of the sea”, which is a symbol of strength and good fortune, making it commonly sought after during Chinese New Year. We couldn’t quite make out the presentation of the Salted Egg Lobster and Sautéed Fillet of Lobster but this dish easily won us over, as the fleshy lobster meat was nicely coated in a delicious layer of salted egg yolk. We preferred this over the sautéed version.

Instead of Pen Cai, we had the Stewed “Eight Treasures” Chicken with South African 5-head Abalone and Sea Cucumber which is equally luxurious and extravagant. Ingredients such as chestnut, barley and lotus seeds are first stuffed into the whole chicken before it is being fried, and then stewed for the next two hours, which results in a deep flavourful taste and is simply divine. This is available for takeaway at $298, including the claypot.

Also available for takeaway, the Water Chestnut Cake ($42) and Pan-fried Nian Gao ($42) are both delightful dessert choices which are easy on the palate.

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Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant
Sheraton Towers Singapore
Lower Lobby Level
39 Scotts Road
Singapore 228230
Tel: +65 6839-5623

Opening Hours:
Daily
11.30am to 2.30pm (from 10.30am on Sun)
6.30pm to 10.30pm

Usher in Spring with Luxurious Lunar New Year Delights at Jade Restaurant, The Fullerton Hotel

Posted on January 15, 2014 by missuschewy

– Invited Tasting –

Gallop into the Year of the Horse and usher in spring at The Fullerton Hotel’s Jade Restaurant from 20 January to 14 February 2014 as Master Chef Leong Chee Yeng and the talented culinary team present new and traditional creations along with luxurious feasts for this Lunar New Year.

Dine-in orders of the signature Eight Happiness Gold Rush Yu Sheng with Champagne Jelly, Salmon, Olive Oil and Apple Plum Dressing will feature beautiful, artistic calligraphic drawings and auspicious greetings that are drawn using olive oil and then dusted with cinnamon powder by Chef Leong who is gifted in Chinese calligraphy. We were all very impressed and captivated by this elaborate plate of Yu Sheng.

Symbolizing wealth and prosperity, the edible gold leaves encased within the housemade Champagne Jelly will add a special touch of luxury to your celebrations. Priced at $78++ for 6 persons or $118++ for 8 persons; a one day advance order is required.

I wasn’t that much a fan of Yu Sheng when I was younger but I have slowly appreciated and learned to enjoy it over the years. Jade Restaurant’s rendition isn’t overly sweet because apple plum dressing is used, which I feel is a nice refreshing change. Makes me want to go for seconds!

I’m not in favor of the consumption of shark’s fin and I’m glad that most restaurants in Singapore are doing away with featuring shark’s fin on their menu. A brilliant alternative in this case, the Braised Bird’s Nest with Crab Meat and Crab Roe in Superior Broth is steeped rich in flavor and has a smooth gelatinous texture which makes eating a real pleasure. Think about all the health benefits that you will reap just by consuming this!

Eating Pen Cai signifies prosperity, abundance and longevity. The Eight Treasures Fortune Pen Cai is a traditional reunion dish made more luxurious with the prized six-head South African Whole Abalones surrounded by layers of premium seafood, meat and vegetables with quality stock in a casserole pot. Available for dine-in at $88++ per person (minimum of 6 persons) or available for takeaway in medium and large servings at $98+ and $118+ respectively.

The best way to enjoy Pen Cai is to eat it layer by layer, from top to bottom. Plenty of sumptuous ingredients in this one! Besides the Six-Head South African Whole Abalone, you will find Fish Maw, Sea Cucumber, Dried Scallops Pork Fore Shank, Dried Oysters, Flower Mushrooms, Roasted Duck, Chicken Wings stuffed with Chinese Ham, Prawn Balls stuffed with Foie Gras, Fish Rolls, Goose Web, Yam, Lotus Root, Chinese Cabbage, Carrot, Leek and Bai Ling Mushrooms. Totally worth the indulgence once a year!

Priced at $38++ for half a lobster (300g) and $76++ for a whole lobster (600g), the Sautéed Boston Lobster in Spicy Cheese Sauce is stir-fried quickly over medium heat to retain the sweetness and juiciness of the lobster meat. The slightly spicy cheese sauce has a rich creamy flavour well absorbed by the succulent lobster meat and is guaranteed to be a hit with people of all ages.

Everybody loves a hearty bowl of Fragrant Wok-fried Glutinous Rice with Chinese Sausages.

Ending the dinner on a sweet note, we had a Combination of Warm Ginger Tea, Wheatgrass Glutinous Rice Dumpling filled with Sweet Walnuts, Crispy Rose-Flavored Water Chestnut Cake and Oven Baked Nian Gao Tarts. Glutinous rice dumplings are a popular sight in Chinese festivities as the round shape and sticky texture represent family togetherness. Worthy of mention is the traditional Nian Gao presented in a delicate pastry tart which can be eaten in one bite. Oven-baked to perfection, each tart is filled with Nian Gao made with Gula Melaka (palm sugar) within a delicate buttery crust. Packaged in an attractive box for gifting, the signature Nian Gao Tarts are available at $28+ per box of 8 pieces.

Lunar New Year goodies and takeaway specials such as Honey Walnuts with Sesame Seeds ($25++ for 300g), Jade’s X.O Sauce ($23+ for 150g), Kueh Bangkit ($25+ for 240g), Almond Sugee Cookies ($25+ for 350g), Love Letters ($29+ for 400g), Pineapple Cookies ($29+ for 300g) and Good Fortune Radish Cake ($38+ for 800g) are available now to 14 February 2014. The Rose–Flavoured Water Chestnut Cake ($38+ for 800g), Eight Happiness Gold Rush Signature Yu Sheng and Eight Treasures Signature Pen Cai are also available for collection from 20 January to 14 February 2014.

Here’s wishing all our friends and readers 龙马精神! 🙂

Stay connected with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/missuschewy and on Instagram @missuschewy and @misterchewy 🙂

Jade Restaurant
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
1 Fullerton Square
Singapore 049178
Reservations: 6877 8188 or email jade@fullertonhotel.com

Jade’s reunion set menus start from $68++ per person.

Capri by Fraser Changi City Singapore Staycation Review

Posted on January 10, 2014 by missuschewy

– Sponsored Staycation –

What better way to kick off the first weekend of 2014 than by pampering and treating yourself to a revitalizing Singapore staycation? Here’s a photo of us, happy to have finally checked into Capri by Fraser Changi City! 🙂

Capri by Fraser is a new hospitality concept which cuts through the conformity of typical hotels, bringing together the extensive range of facilities and services of a smart hotel together with the comfort and convenience of a full serviced residence, designed to meet the 24×7 lifestyle needs of today’s tech-forward travellers.

The hotel which just had its grand opening in January 2013, is located moments away from Singapore Expo, Changi City Point, and a mere 5 minutes from Changi Airport. There is an airport shuttle service which runs to and from the airport on a frequent basis. The MRT station is just opposite the hotel, which makes travelling to popular shopping belts like Orchard Road extremely convenient for both locals and overseas guests.

The lobby area exudes sophistication and yet, feels warm and homely at the same time.

The check-in procedure was pretty smooth. No hiccups whatsoever.

I always look forward to swiping the electronic hotel card key and pushing past the room door to see what surprise awaits me! We were given a 44sqm Studio Premier room on the 6th floor which is immensely spacious as compared to the rooms of most hotels that we had reviewed over the previous two years.

Welcome fruits and drinks.

The king bed looks so tempting!

Gotta love the extra living space! Perfect for lounging on the couch and watching movies on the LED television all day long. You can borrow DVDs from the hotel and play them on the DVD player as well.

Another unique feature about Capri by Fraser which I adore is the kitchenette! You are free to do light cooking in the room but we didn’t because yours truly can’t cook to save her life. LOL.

Electrolux microwave oven

One of the major advantages of induction cooking is safety, especially if you have young children in the hotel room. The stovetop stays cool even when you are cooking.

A must-have at every hotel stay these days, the Nespresso machine!

The bathroom is connected to the bedroom on one side and the walk-in wardrobe on the other. We didn’t have a bathtub but we loved the rainshower feature.

The safety deposit is also unique because there is a charging point inside where you can charge your devices while locking them safe should you decide to leave the room.

Played songs from 98.7fm via the powerful Geneva sound system.

The view which greeted us when we looked out the window!

Hopefully this is a better shot of our room enough to justify its magnificence. I can’t emphasize how awesomely huge it is!

Another selfie before we check out the hotel amenities! I realized I blend well with Capri’s choice of cheery color, orange 😀

There are 24/7 laundrettes on every floor which go by the name Spin & Play because all you have to do is chuck your laundry into the washing machine and play while you wait!

This is on the 6th floor, where you can utilize this unique-looking cycling machine to get some cardio exercise.

There are also interactive games such as Wii and XBOX, etc in the Spin & Play rooms on selected levels.

24/7 gym with pool view. The 20-metre pool is very cool too, because there’s a hydro treadmill if you are sick of doing laps after laps.

I think misterchewy fell in love with the suntanning rocking beds.

If swimming is not your thing, there are bicycle loan services as well!

The Pod is a 98sqm function room for up to 36 persons classroom-style seating. Looks very relaxing and fun to just lie around on the giant bean bags!

Keep yourselves occupied during your staycation by borrowing some console or boardgames to play.

We were hungry from all the walking and decided to pop by Delite which is open from 10am to 7pm serving soups, burgers, pizza, sandwiches and other light bites.

The husband had Buffalo Wings ($15) to go with his pint of Erdinger.

My Albacore Tuna Sandwich ($13) tasted delish. Loved the flaky tuna and crusty Turkish wholewheat toast.

Caprilicious is an all-day dining oulet with hotel buffet breakfast, set lunch, a la carte dinner, and 24-hour room service.

Also located on level 1, Drinx has quite a few Happy Hour deals!

Boys will always be boys. The husband was having fun with the XBOX in one of the Spin & Play rooms while I played Hay Day on my iPad. Hehe.

We had late dinner and decided to have it in the comfort of our room. We phoned Caprilicious and it didn’t take long for our food to be served.

Char-grilled Portobello Mushroom ($11)

Rock Lobster Bisque ($13)

Seafood Tom Yum ($11)

Saffron Risotto ($20)

Grilled Lamb Cutlets ($32)

Snuggled in bed and was planning to watch Pacific Rim which we borrowed earlier. Decided against it in the end when we realized that there would be violent content that I better not expose myself to right now 😛 Off to slumberland!

Breakfast in bed is the ultimate experience! Nothing beats waking up to the smell of delicious American breakfast and a glass of freshly squeezed juice.

Our staycation experience at Capri by Fraser Changi City was a splendid one and we felt really reluctant to check out after a night’s stay. We will be back again with little misschewy! 🙂 In the meantime, do check out Capri’s Lunar New Year Festive Staycation Package for a really good deal!

Click here to check out our list of Singapore staycation reviews! Stay connected with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/missuschewy and on Instagram @missuschewy and @misterchewy 🙂

Capri by Fraser Changi City
3 Changi Business Park Central 1
Singapore 486037
Tel : +65 6933 9833
Fax : +65 6933 9888
For hotel bookings or reservations:
Tel: +65 6338 0800
Local Toll-Free: 1800 338 0800
reservations.singapore@capribyfraser.com

Jamie’s Italian Singapore Food Review

Posted on January 6, 2014 by missuschewy

– Tasting Invite –

Since its official opening in July 2013, Jamie’s Italian Singapore has launched an updated menu featuring 15 new exciting dishes, while retaining some of the more popular ones with a bit of refining to suit local taste buds. When misterchewy and I were there late last year, we were quite surprised that there wasn’t a queue outside Jamie’s Italian after hearing stories of horrible two-hour long waits.

Jamie’s Italian welcomes customers to utilize their online booking system for tables of 1-7 and larger groups are encouraged to call in to reserve (including reservations for our private dining area, no minimum charge). Jamie’s Italian still keep a large number of tables for walk-in customers, so customers are advised to come round even if the system tells you that the restaurant is fully booked.

To kick-start the dinner, we had Crispy Tomato & Mozzarella Arancini ($10.90) from the Antipasti menu. Arancini means “little orange” and these rice balls originate in Campania but are at their best in Sicily. Served with arrabbiata sauce, the piping hot and crispy rice balls are filled with cheesy goodness and taste deliciously tangy and spicy at the same time. Definitely a great starter to work up an appetite.

Since the Baked Mushrooms were sold out, we went for the next best alternative, Crispy Squid ($11.50) which is line caught squid honeycombed, dusted in flour, deep fried, tossed with fresh chilli and garlic chips and served with homemade mayonnaise dusted with paprika. The batter is surprisingly light and crispy, while the squid tasted juicy within. It was so good and addictive that misterchewy and I couldn’t stop popping them into our mouths!

You will be glad to know that at Jamie’s Italian Singapore, pastas are freshly made round the clock. Our love for truffle prompted us to go for the Wild Truffle Risotto ($16/$24.50) which didn’t disappoint us at all. Special Acquerello rice from Italy is cooked simply with salted water, finished with truffle butter and Parmesan and garnished with truffle oil, shaved truffle, nutmeg, grated Parmesan and parsley cress. The result is a very satisfying and creamy risotto dish that is perfect beyond words. We shared this dish between the two of us but I think we could have easily polished this off alone too.

After finding out that Jool’s Favourite Sicilian Tuna Fusilli ($14/$21) is Jamie’s wife’s favorite dish when she was pregnant, I decided to try it for myself. Key ingredients such as albacore tuna, together with chilli, garlic and anchovy, are used to produce a rich tomato ragu for this classic Sicilian recipe. Both misterchewy and I adored this dish, for the fusilli had a very nice bite to it and the piquant tomato ragu really hit the spot. Accompanied with a pangrattato crunch made of breadcrumbs, garlic and fresh herbs all blended together, this really brought the dish up a notch.

I have read quite a number of favorable reviews about the Baked Sustainable Halibut ($29.90) so there was no getting away without trying this one. We were also very lucky to snag the last piece! Jamie’s Italian’s halibut is sustainably fished from Norway. We like how it was so nicely pan-fried to achieve that buttery and flaky texture, which was highly similar to that of cod fish. A very clean-tasting dish on the overall.

Jamie’s Italian’s pork chops come from Wooroloo, Australia, and are brined for 24 hours before they are being grilled al mattone (under a brick). We couldn’t help but feel impressed that such a big slab of Grilled Aussie Pork Chop ($38.50) could remain so evenly tender and succulent throughout. This dish is served with bagna cauda (a sauce made with bread, milk, garlic, anchovy, capers, lemon, oil and parsley), crispy crackling and a salad of kohlrabi, apple, celery leaf, mint and parsley dressed with lemon and olive oil.

Moving on to desserts, we first opted for the Creamy Panna Cotta ($9). Made of cooked cream, the panna cotta is rich and dense. Felt that it was good enough on its own with a drizzle of honey because the seasonal fresh fruit compote was too tart for us to handle.

Chocolate lovers do not leave without having the Epic Brownie ($11.50). Just looking at it can actually get you high. The luxurious brownie made with 70% cocoa solid chocolate was exceptionally fudgy and chewy. Served warm with amaretto ice cream, caramel popcorn and warm chocolate sauce, it was one helluva epic dessert indeed!

It was our first time visiting Jamie’s Italian Singapore and both of us agreed that most of the dishes we tried that night were quite remarkable. That in itself is worthy of a revisit with more friends in the near future. Stay connected with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/missuschewy and on Instagram @missuschewy and @misterchewy 🙂

Jamie’s Italian Singapore
1 Harbourfront Walk
#01 165-167
VivoCity
Singapore 098585
Tel : 6733 5500

Opening Hours:
Sun to Thu
12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat
12pm – 11pm

Ramen Champion Great World City Review

Posted on December 23, 2013 by missuschewy

– Invited Tasting –

Ramen Champion has recently opened its third outlet at Great World City. In addition to existing brands Tonkotsu Itto and Bishamon Zero, two newcomers Miyamoto and Butaou form the line-up of competing ramen brands at Ramen Champion’s new outlet.

During the media tasting, we tried bowls of ramen from all four brands. First up was Bishamon Zero and we also helped ourselves to some of their available side dishes. The Tori Karaage ($4.80) was quite typical of the standard Japanese fried chicken, juicy and crispy but it could have been more tender. I quite liked the chicken with a dash of lemon juice squeezed over it.

The Mentaiko Gyoza (5 pcs) ($5.80) were not bad, doughy enough and nicely pan-fried.

I prefered the Okonomiyaki Gyoza (5 pcs) $5.80 which came with bonito flakes.

I thought that the Sapporo Miso Special Ramen ($14.80) tasted pretty decent even though the broth was somewhat light tasting and didn’t pack enough punch like how a tonkotsu based broth would.

Out of the four, the Special Tonkotsu Ramen ($16.50) from Tonkotsu Itto impressed misterchewy and I the most. The pork based broth was flavorful enough for our liking, and along with the thin and chewy Hakata style noodles which I adore, this was no doubt a winner for me.

We had actually tried something quite similar from Bario at Ramen Champion Bugis+ and didn’t like it. Sadly, the same can be said for the Pork and Vegetable Ramen ($16) from Miyamoto. With a heapful of cabbage shreds and tau ghey, everybody at our table decided that this certainly didn’t look very appetizing. Sorry to say this but I disliked almost everything about about it – from the thick yellow noodles, to the quite tasteless char siew. Never again.

The Spicy Chicken (3 pcs for $5) from Butaou is a must-order! Deep fried to a perfect light crisp and sprinkled with chili powder, the spicy chicken wings were surprisingly appetizing even after all that ramen we had earlier. I guarantee that you will not be able to stop at just one.

The last bowl of ramen which we sampled was Butaou’s Special Sukiyaki Ramen ($16). Just when we all thought that we were just going to just give up after one mouthful, the sweet and savory broth was pleasantly refreshing and for a moment, I was trying very hard to decide if I should give my vote to Butaou or Tonkotsu Itto. I dug in further and realized that while the sukiyaki broth was a nice change from all that saltiness we had earlier, I also got tired of the taste after a while, which will make it impossible for me to finish an entire bowl all by myself.

We only got to meet Chef Wang Hu Rong of Bishamon Zero up close and personal.

And here’s another photo with the cardboard cutout of Chef Yukihiko Sakamoto, whose ramen gets both our vote!
Stay connected with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/missuschewy and on Instagram @missuschewy and @misterchewy 🙂

Ramen Champion
1 Kim Seng Promenade,
Great World City
#01-22
Singapore 237994
Tel: +65 6235 1295

Opening Hours
Daily
11.30am – 10.30pm

The Plot Hostels Singapore Staycation Review

Posted on December 12, 2013 by missuschewy

– Sponsored Staycation –

I thought this would never happen in a million years but thanks to The Plot Hostels, I can finally do this – ~~stay in a hostel~~ to my bucket list! Hurray! Prior to this hostel experience, the very idea of sharing a room with complete strangers is exceedingly intimidating and bothers me a lot. Even misterchewy was completely taken aback by my decision to review The Plot Hostels because he’s well aware of this unexplainable paranoia of mine. But I have to say that I was quite impressed by what I saw on The Plot’s website, so much so that I was convinced enough to give it a shot.

Now, the question is, “Why The Plot Hostels”?

The best stories have a great plot. And at The Plot Hostels, you will encounter lots of intriguing and interesting stories from other travelers and backpackers. Then, once you’re finishing interacting and sharing stories and your best travel adventures with other backpackers and travelers, it’s time to plot your future travels. Plotting journeys is part of the fun for backpackers! Plot your next solo adventure or join forces with one of the other adventure seekers that you’ll meet at The Plot Hostels. It’s a place to forge new friendships, to share stories and delightful conversation and it’s the perfect place to plot your journey and plan your next adventure!

Conveniently located within walking distance of Chinatown, Tiong Bahru and Outram, along with the local heritage area, travellers staying at The Plot Hostels will discover a unique blend of Singaporean cultures.

I didn’t see the need to wake up bright and early that Saturday (for the record, I woke up at 12.30pm) since the check-in could only be done from 3pm onwards. The husband and I took a cab from the East and reached slightly around 3.15pm. Guests had to produce either their identification cards or passports, of which a photocopy will be made upon checking in. We were each given a security access key which came in the form of a silicone rubber wristband.

One of The Plot’s friendly staff showed us up to our room on the fourth level, which is also the highest level.

This is how the access key looks like. Pretty cool right! And you don’t have to worry about misplacing it because you should be wearing it around your wrist everywhere you go, even in the shower since it’s waterproof. The wristbands come in two colors – blue if you are staying in a Mixed room and red for Ladies room.

The Plot Hostels consists of 11 rooms, all of which are air-conditioned. The mixed rooms are available in 3 different configurations – 4-Pod, 6-Pod, and 8-Pod, which you can select during your booking process. Room rates are around SGD35 to SGD50 per person per night, depending on room type, length of stay and stay period. We were assigned a 6-Pod mixed room which comes with an ensuite bathroom and shower. You can easily identify your own pod based on the alphabet indicated at the side of the personal lockers attached to each pod.

When we first stepped into our room, I knew for sure that pod B was occupied by another guest because the curtain had been drawn shut and told misterchewy, “Oh no! We have another male companion in our room!” He asked how could I be so sure that it’s a male and I went, “Why would any solo female traveller want to stay in a mixed room if there are ladies rooms available? Unless…”

I don’t sit on my bed if I’m not showered and in clean clothes but I made this an exception since we were only going to stay for one night. Besides, sitting at the side of the bed wouldn’t hurt right? 😛 I used to think that staying in a hostel is almost akin to staying under slum-like conditions but The Plot Hostels proved me very wrong. Our room was impeccably clean, reasonably spacious and brightly-lit. It really made me feel right at home.

The husband’s pod was just above mine. I was actually quite worried that he would roll off the bed in his sleep given the fact that he’s quite a heavy sleeper at times.

Every individual pod includes a personal locker which has ample space to store your bags, personal valuables, and definitely that precious tablet or laptop which you cannot live without.

There is an international electrical outlet for charging your devices and also a light switch if you wish to do some packing or reading within the comfort of your own pod. Blankets are provided for and if you need towels, you can request for one at the reception.

Washing up area at the other end of the room.

There are conditioning shampoo and shower gel dispensers in the shower room. And for those who are concerned, there definitely is hot water.

Guests are free to use the common bathroom and shower area located outside the rooms on each level. The Plot Hostels is also thoughtful enough to cater to travellers with physical disabilities.

Taking a selfie in the room. Darn, should have backfaced the green-tinted windows 😛

Taking the elevator down to fetch our guest of honour. Haha!

We were pretty much entralled by the futuristic outlook of the elevator. No chance to take photos earlier as we were accompanied by The Plot’s staff. Paisey la 😛

Communal TV lounge with movie screening

Comfy seating area

Complimentary use of iMac computers

Mini library

Hot & cold filtered drinking water dispenser

Chargeable snacks and mini bar

Guests are free to do light cooking in the kitchen. There is a refrigerator and a microwave, as well as cutleries and crockeries.

There is also a Laundry Area with a coin operated washing machine, coin operated dryer machine and communal drying area.

Still very fascinated by the elevator.

YP and I 🙂

Balcony area where you can get some fresh air, chill and exchange stories with fellow travellers.

We headed out for very late lunch around the area. It was almost 5pm and I had not eaten all day! Little misschewy must be very hungry but still had tremendous strength to kick me. LOL. Hopefully I will have time to do a separate review on The Orange Thimble 🙂 There are plenty of cafes and eateries located near The Plot Hostels. Thumbs up for its strategic location!

After late lunch, we had late high tea at Drips Bakery Cafe, a place which specializes in tarts. I chose the Lemon Meringue tart which had just the right amount of sweetness and its zesty lemony taste was very refreshing.

We also shared the Chocolate tart (raspberry was from the lemon meringue) which was slightly bitter as it was made with dark chocoaltes. Reminded me of Awfully Chocolate’s dark chocolate truffles. Yummy!

By the time we were done with our mini pigging out session, it was 7pm but this didn’t stop us from wanting to eat dinner. We agreed that the best way to work up an appetite was to take a 2-hour nap 😛

The husband was teasing me, “Eh? You haven’t shower, so dirty leh. You dare to lie down on your bed ah?” -_-

YP highly recommended Tian Tian Seafood, a mere one-minute walk from the hostel. Fish head steamboat!

Ordered additional sliced pork, golden mushroom, fried yam and hotplate beancurd.

Decided to relax at the communal area after dinner. YP and I caught the last 20 minutes of Life of Pi while the husband updated himself with soccer news and MapleStory on the iMac. The three of us then trotted over to Cheers to get bottled water.

After a nice hot shower! Pardon my eyebrowless face and dark circles >_<

A group selfie before lights out 🙂

The guy at the reception sure wasn’t kidding when he emphasized that “simple breakfast” will be served.

Plain white bread or wholemeal bread with peanut butter, margarine or strawberry jam. You can also help yourself to the toaster.

I had cocoa krispies with milk. Headed back to our room to pack up and nua a bit more before checking out at 11am 🙂

It was a very delightful experience for us staying at The Plot Hostels for one night. The amenities were more than just basic, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the seasoned backpacker found himself being pampered during his stay. I strongly recommend The Plot Hostels not only to travellers seeking maximum comfort and value at a low cost, but also to locals who are keen on organizing staycations for large groups on a budget.

Click here to check out our list of Singapore staycation reviews! Stay connected with us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/missuschewy and on Instagram @missuschewy and @misterchewy 🙂

The Plot Hostels
259 Outram Road
Singapore 169056
Tel: +65 6223 5866
Fax: +65 6223 9626

Central Reservation
Tel: +65 6298 8889
Fax: +65 6396 8356
Email: reservation@theplothostels.com

PrimaDeli Salted Caramel Christmas Logcake

Posted on December 11, 2013 by missuschewy

– Sponsored Review –

Deck the halls with a tempting array of sweet and savoury treats from PrimaDeli and get everyone in the right festive mood to welcome the exciting Christmas season! As usual, PrimaDeli has plenty to offer for their Christmas collection every year and this time, they have launched a trendy flavour – the Salted Caramel Logcake ($36.90)! It was delivered to my workplace in a beautiful light blue box.

This exquisite creation is set to charm with its gorgeous salted caramel cream on layers of fluffy vanilla sponge, made perfect with an almond spread dotted with crunchy chocolate pearls. The taste of salted caramel is actually quite light and my colleagues liked what they tried. We were all in favour of the crunchy chocolate pearls which made eating the cake a whole lot more interesting with the contrast in texture.

Back by popular demand, the Chef’s Supreme Pie ($11.90) is a must-try, consisting of a tasty mix of succulent chicken, potato and mushroom, spiced up with the chef’s special seasoning and baked to golden brown. I brought this home to share with my family members. The pie looked plain on the outside but we heated it up and the pie turned out to be packed with savoury goodness. Very delicious!

The PrimaDeli’s Christmas Collection 2013 will be available at all PrimaDeli outlets now to 25 December 2013. Orders must be placed at least four working days at the various outlets prior to collection. Closing date for orders is 20 December 2013.

Stay connected with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/missuschewy and on Instagram @missuschewy and @misterchewy 🙂

missuschewy

Singapore Lifestyle and Travel Blog

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PrimaDeli Salted Caramel Christmas Logcake

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