M Boutique @ Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel : Skyview Sweets at 19 Floor

M stands for Marriot Miyako. It also stands for My first pastry stop in Japan for 2015.

I could not wait longer to have a taste of Japanese pastries once I touched down in Osaka. The first patisserie on my list was M Boutique since it was conveniently located at the hotel where I was staying and it was helmed by an award winning pastry chef in Osaka. Despite being part of a brand new hotel that is situated right at the 19F of Osaka’s latest landmark, Abeno Harukas, the price range is highly reasonable and the overall quality is above average.

The cake which caught me the least expected was this Agrodolce (540 yen), a pistachio and cherry combination that had a fine crumbly base. There was no description for the cakes so I could only pick them by random. 

Another one that paid efforts to vary the texture was this Cassis Chocolat (464 yen). There was no sables but the crispy chocolate shell proved to an equally delightful substitute that combined very well with the hazelnut paste and tart cassis compote. Cornflakes are used instead of sugared almond slices.Both the Profumo (480 yen) and Ange (497 yen) is no less sosphisticated but lost the battle because of its sweetness. Profumo is a white chocolate mousse with hazelnut dacqoise filled with apricot jam. The Ange would be a cheesecake angel that descend on Earth if not for the limp genoise that is saddled with a meringue frosting.

Palet D’Or (594 yen) may be the most expensive cake here but it has justified its worth from an excellent milk coffee mousse with hints of burnt caramel in the ganache. A must-try if you happen to stay here or is in the Tennoji area for shopping. Other stuff like chocolates, assorted baked pastries, confitures are also available.

M Boutique　エムブティック
大阪マリオット都ホテル
Osaka Mariott Miyako Hotel
Abeno Harukas 19F
大阪マリオット都ホテル
〒545-0052 大阪市阿倍野区阿倍野筋1-1-43
Osaka-shi, Abeno-ku, Abenosuji 1-1-43
Access : Directly Above Tennoji Station
Daily 10am-8pm
http://www.miyakohotels.ne.jp/osaka-m-miyako/restaurant/index.html/

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Caffe B @ Marina Bay Sands : $25 Set Lunch Menu

Italian fine dining restaurant Caffe B has launched a 3-course set lunch menu that allows guests to choose from 2 appetizers and 4 main courses. To be honest, it may be the cheapest fine-dining set menu at Marina Bay Sands but still there is plenty of improvement for the dishes here as they have made several mistakes that should not occurred at such a dining spot. 

Let's start with the food items first. Both the appetizers were quite solid. The Potato and Prosciutto Salad consists of potato chunks wrapped in Prosciutto Ham and topped with Bonito flakes. This intensely savoury bites retained a nice texture that would otherwise be lost if the potatoes were fully mashed. The Soup of the Day was a roasted vegetable soup that reminded me of a creamy version of minestrone soup with hints of curry spices.

That's when the dishes began to lose its magic. The Tuna Sake Tataki was well-executed on the heat, yielding some tender pinkish interior. However, the fish seemed to have parted ways with the red pesto and tomatoes florentine. The Black Angus Beef was a major disappointment as this is a very high-quality cut but had somehow lost all its flavours under the sous vide method. It could be more generous with the sauce verde and edamame puree as the beef was bland. 

Chicken Lasagne Parmeggiano, a spinach pasta layered with chicken, shiitake, eggplants in bechamel sauce, pomodoro and mozzarella, sounded good but did not translate well on the palates. The Vegetarian Pasta Alla Funghi might be the dish that you want to pick as the consistency of the wild mushroom cream sauce was reached, thought I prefer if it could be less salty.

Do not expect much from the dessert, a trio of matcha, red bean and chocolate profiteroles, as the quality and portion is utterly underwhelming. Perhaps it is unfair to ask too much for a $25 but my previous experience says otherwise. Caffe B can do a lot better than this. On the very minimum, the quality should never be compromised.

Caffe B

2 Bayfront Avenue B1-15 & 01-83 

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands Singapore 018972

Lunch Menu is available from 12pm-3pm daily including weekends

www.caffeb.com.sg

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Grand Hyatt SG: Living Grand for Chinese New Year

photo credit: Grand Hyatt

What is your idea of "Living Grand"? 

At Grand Hyatt, "Living Grand" is the promise to unlock the extraordinary by creating spectacular moments, be it big or small. I have no doubts that this established hotel brand has delivered its promises because I had an extraordinary, or no, it should be a super extraordinary Chinese New Year celebration at Grand Hyatt Singapore. 

In fact, now as I recalled that night, everything felt too magical to be true. I attended Grand Hyatt SG's inaugural "Living Grand" dinner, which was described to be a Chinese New Year celebration. So what I had in my mind was a 10-course traditional Chinese New Year meal. Since the dress code was festive cocktail, it could be something more casual with cocktail drinks and canapés? Maybe? 

Before the start of the dinner, guests were gathered outside the Grand Salon, a newly refurbished function space that is designed in such a way that one feels as if he/she is coming back home. Everything was kept strictly confidential and no one had a clue on what would happen that night. Waiters were dressed in neatly pleated traditional Chinese costumes that looked so polished that they could reflect light. 

Crispy black moss chips, little peanut praline bombs, seafood pearls (salmon wrapped glutinous rice balls), these dainty canapés stave off the hunger pangs of the guests amidst the merry chatter and high spirits. 

photo credit: Grand Hyatt

As the time draw close to 8pm, the executive head chef of the night, Chef Lucas Granville, led his troops to shift in 4 massive sets of lavish Yu-Sheng. After the ritualistic toss to an abundant year ahead, the lights started to dim and it was total darkness. In a moment, the automated doors slid opened and a sea of red mist greeted us. 

photo credit: Grand Hyatt

I saw a fairy dancing, another playing the violin, and another guy that looked like the Mad Hatter. Had we been teleported into another wonderland? I was spellbound by everything around me as I navigated my way in the magical garden to find my delegated seat. 

photo credit: Grand Hyatt

26 guests sat opposite each other on a lavishly decorated table lined with fresh, spring flowers. Little did we realize that this was only the beginning of a series of surprise. After everyone has settled down and the General Manager of Grand Hyatt Singapore made his speech the start of the dinner, the second surprise took place. 

photo credit: Grand Hyatt

Another door opened amidst the purple clouds and we saw a live kitchen right in front of us! 

It was amazing to see a kitchen being transported into a ballroom 

photo credit: Grand Hyatt

But the chefs seemed to be casted with an immovable spell and this spell was only broken after a light tap by the fairy dancer. 

photo credit: Grand Hyatt

With the kitchen springing into action, everyone was eagerly looking forward to what would be served on the tables. Chinese? Fusion? Or even some weird Molecular dishes? Contrary to the carnival mood, the dishes were rooted in Chinese traditional cuisine. 

photo credit: Grand Hyatt

Our first course was Buddha Jumps over the Wall, a classic nourishing chicken broth that showcases 100% sustainable seafood. It was so comforting to sip on the warm soup that was brimming with the natural sweetness of the sea treasures. 

Next, we had the Roast Chinese Duck served with lotus rice on water spinach. Though the duck was a little dry and overdone, the lotus rice was excellent, boasting grains that resolutely separate with no trace of grease. The crispy chicken egg with a fragrant meat coating brought a touch of British sophistication to the dish. 

The climax arrived when everything was cleared from the table and the head chef unveiled a Chinese painting of the 12 zodiac animals on both alleys of the table. A series of traditional Chinese New Year desserts such as theWhite Lotus Blossom Flower, Buddha’s Hand Lemon and Mango Pudding, Mini Liu Sha Bao, Pineapple Tarts and even Dragon Beard Candy graced the table. My favorite was the “ketupat” that was actually coconut ice cream in disguise!

I can feel the passion and enthusiasm flowing in every part of Grand Hyatt as the team had evidently put in a lot of effort to create unforgettable memories for their guests. They have not only redefined my understanding of Chinese New Year, but also opened me to the possibilities that one can have when hosting events at Grand Hyatt Singapore. 

photo credit: Grand Hyatt

The folks have set the bar so high that makes it difficult for me to find the next experience that can surpass this one. I am not exaggerating but I think this is way beyond the 5-star luxury experience. It is about creating common memories between the guests and the brand, about living in the present, living in the grand moment. 

For your personalized events,
contact +65 6416 7373 or e-mail meetings.sg@hyatt.com

Grand Hyatt Singapore

10 Scotts Road

Singapore, 228211,

Tel: +65 6738 1234

Fax: +65 6732 1696

Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

This article first appeared on SG Food on Foot, an excellent and comprehensive food blog that showcases Singapore's best food near MRT stations. 

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Tampopo Singapore : More than Just Black Pig Ramen

Salmon Crab Roll ($14.80)

Thanks to the Kyoto Fair held some time ago, I had the opportunity to relish my Japanese cravings at Tampopo again. It's not as cheap as Waraku but it promises better quality and wider variety of dishes than similar family restaurants such as Ootoya. Having been to this place for Nth times, the food is still as delicious as I remember. 

The 黒豚トリフチャーハン Black Pig Truffled Fried Rice ($18.80) has a relatively starchy texture compared to usual Chinese fried rice as Japanese short-grained pearl rice is used. Perfumed with the umami fragrance in a good way that complemented the flavors of the pork, this ugly but tasty dish is a rare gem amidst the zenith of wayward uses of truffle these days. 

The Grilled scallops with Mentaiko Cheese Sauce ($12.80) is the kind of cheesy comfort food that would heal any depressive feelings but it would be perfect if they can use the fresh plump white scallops instead of the red ones. 

One of the most delicious unagi you can find in Singapore.

Mentaiko Tonkatsu (set with rice and pork miso soup $23.30/ala carte $19)

Tonkatsu is one of the signatures at Tampopo besides its Black Pig Ramen. This is actually better than Saboten as the cutlet is tender, juicy and not too dry. Plus, with the presence of mentaiko, one won't miss the sweet tonkatsu sauce.

Skip the new Tampopo Poke Salad ($13.80) and the Matcha Parfait ($8.50). The chunky lettuces and raw sashimi cubes were two separate entities that did not bond well with each other. For the latter, it tasted like cheap ingredients pieced casually together. 

I'm also having reservations about their signature scoop cake ($7). Perhaps having sat in the fridge for the entire day, the cake and the cream were stale and dry. But still I have good faith in their chiffon cakes at Dulcet Studio and will return to try them. 

Nonetheless, you can stake your bets on these three ice cream items. I'm deeply in love with this smooth Black Sesame ice cream ($3) that bursts of intense earthy flavour. The cylindrical-shaped Matcha and Chocolate Ice Cream ($5.50 each) must have been loaded with bags of matcha and cacao powder because they are so rich yet not overly sweet. Light, wonderful endings to a good meal with good company.

Tampopo 

177 River Valley Road, #01-23/24, Liang Court

Mon-Sat 11.30am-10.30pm

Sun 11am-10.30pm
Tel: 6338-3186

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Butterstudio: Halal Cafe and Nutella Tart

One of the first thing that comes to my mind when I see the word "Butterstudio" is butter (not buttermilk). Indeed, this Halal Cafe located in the Jalan Besar has won fans for its cupcakes and other pastries. However, it is also cosy place that offers brunch items like egg benedicts and pancakes. 

The Signature Red Velvet Cake ($7.90/slice) is drizzled with salted caramel for that savoury balance. The cake is moist and tender but the efforts were rendered futile by the intense sweetness evident in both the cake and the cream cheese. These seemed to be the case for the cupcakes and jar cakes, which were a pity because they looked good and stirred my excitement initially.

However, the Sea Salt Nutella Tart was an instant winner with a crisp shortcrust shell and rich creamy Nutella. The addition of salt magically brought the Nutella to an optimal sweetness. The Belgian Chocolate Tart comes close behind with a 50-60% chocolate cream blended with milk chocolate but the cacao taste did not shine brilliantly that day. 

If you love poached eggs, you will be extremely pleased to know that there is quite a number of dishes to choose from the brunch menu. From the Norwegian Salmon Bagels ($18) to the Classic Egg Florentines in Ciabatta ($13), each one comes with 2 poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce. The classic Morning Benedicts ($12) is still the reliable choice as nothing beats a well-buttered and toasted English muffin layered with chicken ham and turkey bacon. 

Packed with a crispy hash-brown, scrambled eggs and cheese in a tortilla skin, the hangover breakfast wrap ($12) might not be the most delicious cure but it is definitely a nourishing pack to fight the headache and perk you up for the rest of the day.

Butter Studio 

147 Jalan Besar 

Singapore 208865

(Sun-Thurs 12-11pm/ Fri, Sat 12-12mn/ Tues closed)

Tel: 6543 9809

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SpaJiro釜あげスパゲッティ すぱじろう: Japanese Style Pasta

I know pasta seemed like the food with the least priority for anyone travelling to Tokyo as it is often categorized as something Italian. But having lived in Tokyo for a while, sushi, ramen, soba and udon can get boring at times and I would go for 和風 (Japanese-style) pasta when the carb cravings hit. In fact, the Japanese has done an amazing job with pasta and my encounters with Wafu pasta so far has never never disappoint. One good example is the uni pasta from Fregoli in Ebisu. 

If you love Wafu Pasta just like me, Spajiro is a casual quick Japanese-style pasta restaurant that you might be interested to check out. It is an all-day dining place with more than 50 varieties of pasta (so you can never get bored with this) It has the word "Jiro" but this is so much better than the Jiro ramen (sorry Jiro fans) 

The concept is casual-- suitable for both family-friendly and single diners--but the folks here take their noodles seriously. From the amount of time taken to boil the noodles to the compatibility of flavors, each sauce is prepared from scratch upon every order (says the website) and 2 limited edition pasta are introduced every month. 

For instance, this Mentaiko Natto Ume-jiso (¥980) was a special edition pasta during the hot summer month of June. The bowl looked simplistic but the flavors were not elusive at all. The umejiso (pickled plum and Shiso leaf dressing) gave the carbs a nice sour kick, very much like eating puréed Ume boshi (savoury and sour pickled plums). However, the pasta were little overcooked.

Something better and perhaps more reliable is the Baked Cheese Eggplant Cream Meat Sauce Pasta (¥1030) from their Best 10 list. I loved this more than the previous one because it has a creamy base but not too much liquid like a soup pasta. Melty cheese and soft luscious eggplant, the deliciousness of this dish required no explicit explanation. 

If you are a huge carb monster, the noodles can be upgraded to M, L and XL size for FREE. Yes, FREE. My friend and I were hungry but our regular = S sized portion already made us full after the meal. Most outlets open till midnight while the Roppongi outlet feeds the late night owls all the way till 8am the next morning. The food scene in Tokyo at night is never only about beer and grub Izakaya bites. 

Spajiro 釜あげスパゲッティ すぱじろう
Tokyo, Chuo-ku Ginza 3-4-1
Daily 11am-11pm

For other outlets in Roppongi, Ebisu, Azabu-juban
visit http://www.spajiro.com/storeinfo/index.html

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Do.Main Bakery: Classic French Pastries in Tanjong Katong

Ooh!! ah!!! That was the excited responses from the tables when this pillowy heart appeared in front of our eyes. Sandwiched with raspberry cream, this Valentine's special creation named Tropezienne ($12) turned out to be a brioche burger instead of a choux puff. The raspberry flavour was bright and tart, but the enjoyment was implicated by a rather squishy chilled bun that became fluffier after sitting in room temperature for a while. Nonetheless, this romantic spin on a classic French pastry definitely scored points on originality.

But what makes do.main stand out from the other pastry shops is the traditional bread freshly churned from "natural leavening". These are not to be mistaken as the American sourdough and you will get whacked with a baguette if you refer to it as "sour dough" (just kidding)

Bourdaloue tart with pears and almond/ apples ($5 per slice) 

Opened by the chef-owner Frederic Deshayes, this cosy boulangerie cum bistro offers old fashioned hand-crafted French bread and pastries such as croissants, brioches, pithiviers, tarts, eclairs etc. Chef Frederic used to teach pastry at Le Cordon Bleu Paris for 18 months before heading the pastry department at At-Sunrice GlobalChef Academy for the last nine years. You know that the food is well loved by the locals and ang-mohs alike as customers continue to stream in and pick their breads for take-away during my visit on a lazy Saturday evening.
Probably one of the best ways besides eating the bread plain is to have it with cheese.

The Tartiflette "Reblochon" $16 (Oven baked Cheese, Potatoes, Bacon) was one of the ala carte dishes that melted my heart instantly. I could slowly savour the cheesy goodness as the pud remained in a semi-liquid form right to the very final lick. The baked baked escargots $16 here are good too. Plump, tender and fresh, these are unlike their frozen limpid counterparts served at other places in Singapore. 

Other French bistro favourites include the Broken Egg (Plain $12/Cream Bacon $15 /Tomato) that is served with Mouilllettes aka toasts soldiers. I doubt anyone will have a problem clearing the assorted bread basket as the bread is truly a mark of the chef's expertise. 

It would be foolish not to grab some of the excellent sweets here as well. I highly recommend the macarons that were in a supreme class of its own. The light delicate shells crackle as one bites into it and next comes the moment when the mouth is pleasantly violated with the luscious fillings.

I am obsessed with the Peanut Butter Caramel, which tastes like a royal marriage of Snickers bar and Skippy Creamy Peanut Butter. The Coconut is also unbelievably fragrant and divine. Same goes for the dark potent Chocolate. At $2 per piece/$6 per pack, I must confessed that these are definitely a steal and perhaps more enjoyable than the ones from Patisserie G and even Laduree. 

Another must-try is the Cream Puff ($5). Or more precisely, a chouquette puff that looks deceivingly small but sublimely overloaded with almost unsweetened vanilla cream filling. Unmasked by the sugar, this is one rare moment when I could really taste the pure flavors of the dairy. 

With the upcoming Chinese New Year, Chef Frederic has also created the Mandarin Choux Cream Puff that is bursting with smooth citrusy cream. Quiches and cakes, these will be the next on my list. 

Do.Main Bakery

226 Tanjong Katong Road

Nearest station : Dakota 

Tel: 6348-1406

Tues-Sun 8am-9pm 

http://do-mainbakery.com/

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