Monday 30 April 2012

Max Brenner: The chocolaty ending

"Have you tried Max Brenner's chocolate souffles before?"

A question I asked my partner back some time ago and apparently, she didn't. At that moment, I just knew I have to bring her to try out. Afterall, all good things must be shared right?

It wasn't too long ago when we had a scrumptious lunch over at Outback Steakhouse but the chocolate brownie was simply just upsetting. I'm not saying it's bad but for the price, I have to say I tried better ones at much affordable price... I guess few people can apprehend our love for all things sweet yah?

The Melting Chocolate Truffle Heart Cake ($16.00) or as I just like to call the whole lovely creation-Chocolate Souffle, is one of those to die for stuffs! Molten chocolate just leaked out from the cake as we dig our spoons into it, wholeheartedly of course. If it's ain't chocolaty enough, then simply more chocolate sauce all over it alright? On second thoughts, I might have just realized that Max Brenner's rendition would be a hybrid of a really good chocolate souffle and an awesome chocolate lava cake instead but whatever it is, I still love my chocolaty creation okay?

The Vanilla Ice Cream accompanying our Chocolate Souffle deserves much attention too. Both of us agreed that the true taste of vanilla comes after the ice cream had completely melted in your mouth. Clearly, this is the definition of awesome. No, I'm serious! It's really that good!
Hot Chocolate can always be appreciated be it rain or shine. It just brightens everything up. Especially when you have a mug that tells you to hug the warm drink. How comforting does it gets? Anyway, I decided to go for the Dark Italian Thick Chocolate ($7.50). The smell was simply alluring. It was just plain rich and creamy chocolaty indulgence.

Finally, we could tell ourselves that our desserts cravings were no more until the next time...
There you have it. Our chocolaty ending, Max Brenner...

Esplanade Mall #01-06/08
8 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039802
Tel: +65 6235 9556
Website: http://www.maxbrenner.com/home.aspx

Sunday 29 April 2012

Outback Steakhouse

Besides high tea, my partner for the day has a particular fondness for pastas and I actually thought of introducing Saveur's Angel's Hair Pasta to my partner but it was a mistake on my part for not checking their lunch last order (2.45pm). Sadly though we were turned down at their doors when we reached at 3pm. It didn't really matter since we have the whole day to ourselves and after an hour's worth of searching for the next best place to chill over lunch, we ended up at the Outback Steakhouse on recommendation by my partner. 

A glance was all we need and we settled on the Toowoomba Pasta ($23.90). Beautifully crafted little ribbons pastas which we often call fettuccine simmered in cream sauce was more than just palatable. The whole eating experience couldn't been smoother...

There's nothing weird ordering seafood pasta at a steakhouse if they cooked them to such perfection. Surely my partner would agree to the statement too!
Ask any steak connoisseur and they tell you steaks are best eaten rare and medium-rare where the meat remains red on the inside while the exterior browns from the heat. Essentially anything beyond medium shouldn't be considered. I have yet to hear anyone having their red meat medium-well and much less well-done. I personally don't like my steaks too bloody so medium-rare would do just fine.

The steak lover's steak, a medium-rare 12 ounce Ribeye ($39.90). I would be a fool to doubt Outback's rendition since they are the people who specialize in steaks right? Espresso infused Ribeye seems appealing when we were told we could choose the style to which our beef shall be served. I can't really remember the other three choices but my partner and I found the espresso taste would be too negligible for our palette. 
Before our pastas and ribeyes came, we were served a loaf of brown bread. A search on the web tells me this should be the Bush Bread which Australian Aborigines have been baking few thousand years ago. Isn't that cool? Being a baker myself, I sure think this is sooo cool!
The loaf was crisp on the outside with a soft interior. I'm not sure if they were done in the traditional way, baked in hot coal. All I knew I had a good time tearing through the bread with the knife though my partner was saying I should do the tearing with my hands like she does...
There's a reason why my partner recommended Outback. She was here back some time ago for work purposes and got to knew one of the staff and promised to head down someday to try out their menu.

Desserts in particular can always be appreciated but we were too full for any and besides we have somewhere in mind for our desserts. So when they served us a complimentary the Chocolate Thunder From Down Under ($15.90), we were rather surprised about it and how could we reject such a kind gesture?

The nutty brownie was too moist and heavy while the chocolate sauce added a somewhat displeasing taste to everything sweet. The cream sitting above was too much even for me, a dessert fan to sing praises about it.  Maybe we are just fussy when it come to desserts...

The food was good but the service though I have to say... Excellent! I am particular impressed when the staff took the time to explain the menu. A 10% discount was also given on courtesy of the staff. I dare say it can be comparable with Prime Society, a fine-dining restaurant that serve in my opinion the best steaks cuts in Singapore and yes. We had a great time over at Outback Steakhouse.

Now the only question remain... Game up for some of the best souffle in Singapore?
Needless to say, we always are. So stay tune for part II.

Time 2@Millenia Walk #01-99
9 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039596
Tel: +65 6837 3242
Website: http://outback-sea.com/sg/index.html

Saturday 28 April 2012

Just like any other day

27/04/2012...

It was just like any other day. You have school to attend. You have your meals just like every other day and of course... All the fun with your friends, your families and of course, those close to our hearts as well.

Maybe it's the way I lead my life. I live everyday like as if it's my birthday. There's always something worth celebrating. Even that Dreadful Tuesday, I tell you there were things that still brought a smile...

There wasn't a single cake in sight on the special day. I wonder why though but that was my least concern. I could have celebrated my special day at more fancier place like Marina Bay Sands or some atas (High Class) Pub slipping a shot or two with friends. They could have materialized for such plans were made but I kindly declined those offers.

Instead this was how I end of the special day, I had a simple fare at some coffeeshop around the vicinity of my house. Simple but comforting. When all of us arrived, in total three including me, we went for a walk and chat and we joked. Afterwards we end the night with teh-tarik and bade goodbye to one another.

Sound pathetic right? Dinner at coffeeshop with only 2 friends? How sad does it get?

If you were in my shoe, I guess you would have gone for dinner buffets and drinking sessions right? Maybe it's all about the perception but all I know I had a great time myself and the two had a fun time as well and that's was all it matters...

I made a wish before the day ended. What's the wish about? Only you and I will know...

And that was how my Birthday ended. No cakes. Few gifts. Two friends but loads and loads of fun...

Wednesday 25 April 2012

A sweet way to start a Wednesday

The Sun was barely up and I found myself sitting alone at the nearby coffeeshop. Swirling my usual hot drink, Teh-O always with less sugar with the metallic spoon, contemplating everything that happened the previous day. Mostly bad I have to say...

An enraged lecturer, a scattered group, a cancelled lunch, a delayed dinner and worst of all:
A disgruntled friend...

"What a terrible Tuesday..." I thought to myself and I wonder how will my Wednesday is going to be like?

I peered over my phone. It's stated 7.13am. A sign for me to go. I finished the remaining red liquid in my glass mug, gathered my valuables, just my phone and wallet, hoping I will reach my destination on time.

Sitting opposite me was two youth roughly around my age (I'm 19 in one day's time.) whom I suspect to be couples. They were having their breakfast before heading to school I guess? They were doing something all too common for me. If you think I'm referring to all those kissing, hugging and petting then you're wrong. Allow me to describe alright?

The girl slightly hunched and both her hands that seems to rest on an invisible table above the visible one, with fingers interlocking one another. The boy sitting closely on her right placed his left hand on her left and his right hand on her right as well. Both their eyes tightly shut.

I knew it all too well. They were giving thanks. I seen it all too often but always alone but never a pair.
I stood there for a good five seconds, observing the beauty that unfolds before me.
"A sight to behold" I muttered to myself.

They were just about to tuck into their first meals when I walked past them and stopped for a moment.

"What God has joined, man must not divide. Amen." I said.

"Amen! Thanks, May God bless you and your other half too." She said.

"I'm still single but thanks for your blessing too." I declare giving a chuck pondering the girl's statement.

"I'm sure you will! Have faith dude!" She said with much enthusiasm.

And all this time, the boy sitting on her right was just looking at her. I could almost see the glean in his eyes. He seems lost. Lost in a sea of love? I know that feeling all too well.

Alas, he gave her a peak on her rosy cheeks while she finishes him off, ruffling his hair and they tucked into their still piping hot bowls of noodles.

Such affection. Beyond words.

I bade them goodbye and walked away thinking to myself...

 "How I wish I have someone to say grace with. Wouldn't that be nice?"

What a sweet way to start off a Wednesday...

Monday 23 April 2012

The beauty I see

I've a set of friends whom I've known for a relatively long time. They might not be the longest ones I know. Just a mere nine years? But the degree of closeness I share with them. Only so few can rival...

I just love the stunned looks on people's face whenever I tell them I still hang out with my primary school friends. Yes, your eyes didn't fail you. I still hang out with them till today and I'm proud to tell everyone that I enjoy going out with my childhood friends!

Did I tell you that in the past whenever I want to go out and my mum ask me who am I going with, I would just say I'm going out with my primary school friends even though I'm not? What a safe proof excuse.
Hey! I'm not the only one ok? A few of them did use the same excuse okkk!

They might just be the only clique that still address me by my Chinese name. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I loathe the name my grandfather gave me.

It's just that the English one is easier for people to remember. I remember there was this particular class project I had and I invited two of them to help me out. They were baffled when my classmates addressed me as Edward and my classmates were equally confused when the two called out my Chinese name, Kwee Siong.

I told the two to call me as they have known me for years. There's no need to conform. So for the rest of the day, my classmates went "Edward! This..." and the two of them went "Kwee Siong! That..." and we had fun collecting newspapers.

I always try to make time for them. A cuppa here. A dinner there. Not to mention high tea too!
The silly conversations and the even sillier laughter with them. Those memories. Simply priceless...

I've the best analogy to describe our relationship with one another and it goes like this:

Each of us are like trees in the forests. Each of us need the space to grow. Each of us grow at our pace. Some, faster and some, slower but always growing. But just like the dense forest, there will be moments the branches, the twigs and the vines from other tress become entangled with one other or even a few others.

These fateful entanglements are just like those moments where we take out precious time from our daily lives, if not busy lives and spend a hour or two just with one another. Just enjoying each other's presence and each of us leave a imprint of our lives within one another.

And after the day draws to end, we bade a farewell with one another and continue growing. At our space and always at our own pace. Always looking forward to another entanglement.

Such is the beauty I see... Do you?

Friday 20 April 2012

Min Jiang: The Goodwood Park Dim Sum high tea experience

It was a mind boggling task for me when daddy asked me how do I wanna celebrate my nineteenth birthday.  You see, I already had in mind as to where I want but that doesn't equate to what my family would enjoy. For me, any meals must be enjoyable not to  me but to the people who dine with me as well.

Sometimes it's not just about the food. It's also the diners right?

Dim Sum, high tea and buffet. Those were my criteria I had in mind and after a click or two, I've found Min Jiang @ Goodwood Park Hotel, a Oriental restaurant that fits my criteria at a relatively affordable price ($32++). 

Reservations are highly recommended as I've learnt my lessons from past experience when you're dining with a fairly large group. To me, anything above six people is large enough to make me call for booking. Besides, I always like to make my presence known, you know the life of a prince is all about glamour right?

Like most established Chinese restaurants, Xiao Long Bao or XLB as I call them, must always be made and served upon request. It was a good 20 minutes before they arrived onto our table piping hot. I pierced the soft skin and clear meat stock flowed out of the man-made dimple. I slurped and took my first bite of the gem within it, a sizable meat is all I see and the rest were made history...

Simply delightful though I would say that Min Jiang's rendition isn't as exquisite compared to Din Tai Fung's with their famous 18-folds XLB. Well, the taste makes up for the visual I guess. It's so disappointing that you could only try it once... Yea, they are served only once.
My family doesn't believe in formality. There's no need to wait. Everyone starts at their own leisure pace. For me, I just go ahead with a bowl of Century Egg Congee. The smooth texture of the congee, the taste from the fermented egg and the delicate slices of ginger. Plain and simple that's how I like my congee to be.
Prawn Dumplings or Har Gau as the Cantonese calls these pearl white treats are a must have for any Dim Sum meals. It would be plain weird if you don't have one of these on the tables but anyway, the prawns were fresh and the skins enveloping the pinkish seafood was of the right consistency. I love them so much that I didn't feel the need to dip them in red (chili) or black (soy) sauce. The sweetness from the prawn is more than my enough to excite my palette.
Another quintessential dumpling in Dim Sums, Siew Mai. Though I felt that there's no need to place a small abalone above each of them. It's simply too small to make any impact. I guess it gives the diners the wow factor that they used such an expensive ingredients?
Chee Cheong Fun were served in two forms. Either with scallops or roast pork. They were great though a bit too salty for me since it's douse in soy sauce. Sorry for the mess I've made. Mummy wasn't very happy with me playing with my food to get the perfect shot...
I dare say this is one of the better Char Siew Pao I had. The bun were soft and fluffy while the meat inside were sweet and tender. Signs that they were made by hand. I lost count of the number of basket we took just to justify the lack of Egg Tarts and Lian Rong Pao that ran out... Yea, we were disappointed about the lacks but that doesn't mean we weren't able to continue our high tea happily right?
There was nothing special about their desserts section. Mango Pudding, Cheng Teng, Mango Sago and a few mouse cakes. I can't really remember the name of this one but it was fascinating to see desserts that looks like salad. Pieces of sponge cakes and various fruits all mixed together in a bowl. It's pleasant to the eyes but that's all.

I thought I would walk away feeling disappointed with their desserts, until the staff came to our table and mentioned that they'll be serving durian pudding at 4pm promptly. You have no idea how excited I was when I heard the news. So excited that I begin explaining to my family members how famous their durian desserts were and I think I gave the staff a shock when I stopped her from doing the explanation because I basically said everything within one breath!

But it's true! The name Goodwood Park has been synonymous with the word durian. In my opinion, no patisseries or bakery or any other hotels can rival them in terms of quality and variety of durian desserts they have! I didn't call myself dessert prince for fun ok? Desserts are my eye-candies just to let you know ;)
It was four and as told, our Durian Pudding were served individually. The pudding itself was smooth and delectable but I tell you when they say it's durian pudding, it means there's real durian inside which comes in the form of strands, the fibers of the fleshy fruit. Don't be misleaded by the portion though, by the time I finished mine, I was so full that I wish I hadn't eat too much Char Siew Paos!

A typical scene of a boy who has overate... Awful feeling but totally worth it!
Like all buffets, there will always be hits and misses. I didn't try all their dumplings because they didn't look worth the extra calories. Some were doused in oil, some looked too daunting and some looked too spicy. What they lacked in variety, they make up in terms of quality. My mum still resent the fact that they didn't have Egg Tarts and Lian Rong Pao...

Service was a tad too slow. I guess the staffs had a hard time meeting our constant demands of refilling the tea pot or clear our mounting plates and baskets. At least they were friendly and approachable, always with a smile that's what I always see.

And there you have it. The Goodwood Park Dim Sum high tea experience...

Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scots Road, Singapore 228221
Tel" +65 6737 7411

Wednesday 18 April 2012

Saizeriya II: Simplicity at its best

She flipped through the menu and decided for the creamy Carbonara Spaghetti ($5.80) while he's a frequent diner at the causal Italian restaurant went for the Bacon Risotto ($5.80). A press of the button is all he did to get the lunch going. Something she wasn't aware off even though she comes quite often as well but that doesn't matter.

"Carbonara for her and Risotto for me and Escargots for us.That's what he said and the staff simply repeated their orders and walked off.

They conversed while they waited for their dishes to come. Occasionally, a slip of H2O or two to clear their throats. After a few conversations here and there, their food came and they started eating.

"What's risotto?" She asked him. He gave a chuckle and explain to her that it's actually rice stewed in broth.
She got an answer and started swilling her carbonara, always elegantly. Though she prefer her rendition with a shiny egg yolk. On the other hand, he simply dig into his food with no comments. I guess he's just content?
He popped one while she scooped one. Simply fascinating those Escargots ($5.80) were. They drank more H2O after they cleared their food and chat some more before she decides it's time to pay the bill.

It is simple as that. Nothing pretentious and nothing expensive. Definitely this is simplicity at its best.

For a bit more info, feel free to click on my first review of Saizeriya here.

Liang Court Shopping Centre #02-22
177 River Valley Road, Singapore 179030
Tel: +65 6337 9001
Opening Hours: 10am-11pm daily.

Tuesday 17 April 2012

Guide to Duxton Hill Cafes & Restaurants

Duxton Hill has always been my favorite place to chill and hang out. It's one of those few places in the central Singapore that's doesn't experience the crowd like Orchard Road. Making this quiet outspot a nice place for a some quiet time for tea like I always do :)

 It's just like I always say: "Duxton is like my little playground!"

So without further ado, here's The Dessert Prince's guide to Duxton Hill.
Bonhuer Patisserie
A Patisserie that churns out happiness that's what it's all about. Bonhuer Patisserie has always been my favorite cafe for a cuppa coupled with a cake or two. Their afternoon tea promotion is definitely worth it. A drink and a cake for $10 always give you the option to try other creations. The cakes maybe petite but hey, it's the little things that make you smile!

70 Duxton Road, Singapore 089529
Tel: +65 6221 1148
Website: http://www.bonheurpatisserie.com.sg/
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Cafe L'Operetta
It's house within the colonial building of Berjaya Hotel. It's a cafe, a finer one if you have to know. I do know some of my friends who often dine there and they tell me it's pretty good though when I look at their price. It's another story...

Berjaya Singapore Hotel Lobby Level
83 Duxton Road, Singapore 089540
Website: http://www.operetta.sg/
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Etna Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria 
If you're someone who loves fine-dining the Italian way but ain't willing to burn a hole in your pocket then Etna might be a place of choice. Fresh ingredients and top-notch service are always the topic whenever I dine there with my friends. But in my opinion, their unique pistachio tiramisu will always be the main focus for the night...

49/50 Duxton Road, Singapore 089513
Tel: +65 6220 5513
Website: http://www.sicilia-mia.com/etna_res.html
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Flor Patisserie
If the French invented desserts then it's the Japanese who perfected the art of eating desserts! This is clearly visible if you ever visit them. With Chef Yamashita behind the kitchen, it's little wonder why such a statement even exist! Although, Flor has another outlet at the basement of Takashimaya, I still prefer coming down to their main shop where I can just sit down and relax with a cake or two.

2 Duxton Hill #01-01, Singapore 089588
Tel: +65 6223 8628
Website: http://www.cakeflor.com.sg/
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Flying Hog Cafe & Bar
This is the only place that I know that allows personal customization of your pizzas.They do have pretty weird choices like otah? I never try it before though so maybe I shall head down there with a friend or two just for some spicy fish pizzas.

32/33 Duxton Road, Singapore 089497
Tel: +65 6327 1518
Website: http://www.flyinghog.com.sg/index.html
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Group Therapy Cafe
When I came to know of Group Therapy cafe, I really took it literally. Silly me, I guess it has to do with my social work background? Anyway, the cafe is a nice place for a lazy weekend brunch. Their carrot cakes are worth mentioning. If you wanna know, I always get a slice whenever I'm there conducting my own group therapy with my friends and family. It's rather easy to miss it so keep a look out for Etna Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria because the cafe is on it's second floor.

49 Duxton Road #02-01, Singapore 089513
Tel: +65 6222 2554
Website: http://www.gtcoffee.com/
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Keen On Crepes (They have closed their outlet at Duxton as of 30/6/2012
I love my crepes sweet. I love my crepes savory but now I know where to get my crepes whenever and however I want them to be. So are you keen on crepes now?

96 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore  088517
Tel: +65 6221 0282
Website: http://www.keenoncrepes.com/index.htm
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Latteria Mozzerella Bar
Just as it's call, mozzarella cheese is the theme for this Italian restaurant. Price is a bit on the higher end even though Latteria class itself as a causal Italian restaurant but hey, no complaints if you're someone who could appreciate cheese anytime of the day.

40 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089618
Tel: +65 6866 1988
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Miz Japanese Restaurant
The name Miz derive from her owner, Mr. Mizushima Hiromi whom what I know has many years of culinary experiences in his name. For instant, preparing meals for the Imperial House of Japan? Now that's something you didn't know right? Food here is comparably more affordable than most authentic Japanese restaurants. Japanese diners are often seen dining here which goes to show just how authentic and good they really are.

7 Craig Road, Singapore 089667
Tel: +65 8354 7477
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Pasta Brava
I think I did mention somewhere in one of the post that Pasta Brava is one of my favourite Italian restaurants in Singapore and it still is! The intrigue interior design is what I love about the two story restaurant. There's no need for me to describe how the food fare for now until I have another chance to dine there again.

11 Craig Road, Singapore 089671
Tel: +65 6227 7550
Website: http://www.pastabrava.com.sg/index.html
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Patisserie Glace
Located within the old building of Chinatown Plaza, Glace is THE definition of hidden gem! I mean it's the only F&B shop within the building. It's no secret that Chef Yamashita from Flor Patisserie once churned sweet cakes and savory desserts in the kitchen of Glace before he decided to set up his own patisserie. Among the other cafes and/or patisseries, Glace is the most affordable with sliced cakes starting from $5.00 onward and another additional 20% discount from 5.30pm to 6pm. Sadly though, the only option to enjoy their sweet treats is take away.

Chinatown Plaza #01-10
34 Craig Road, Singapore 089673
Tel: +65 6649 1557
Website: http://cakeglace.com/
Opening Hours: 12pm-6pm daily
Closed on weekends & PH
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Pavillion
Cantonese cuisines served in a fine-dining style.It's exquisite that's for sure. Dim Sum is what I foresee the next time if I ever had the chance to try Pavillion.

Craig Place #01-02
20 Craig Road, Singapore 089692
Tel: +65 6557 2820
Website: http://www.pavillion.com.sg
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ReStore
Furniture and food all coming together to form this unique cafe. Bagels are a must try if you ever come down for a lazy weekend brunch. Don't forget to finish off with a nice cuppa though I prefer earl grey but that's a personal preference.

124 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088533
Tel: +65 6222 3510
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Sakana Japanese Restaurant
I chanced upon this Japanese restaurant and decided to did a bit of research. Turns out Sakana means food that's pair with alcohol. I'm not sure how the food fares but now I know where to have my sashimi cravings if I'm near the hill...

81 Neil Road, Singapore 088905
Tel: +65 6423 0630
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Tea Chapter
If you're someone who can appreciate a cup of Chinese tea, then look no further than the Tea Chapter. Instruments are provided to those whom really can brew their own set of tea but freak not if you're still an amateur for the staffs would be more than happy to go through the basics of tea brewing and demonstrate the art to you. A traditionalist would go for their tea eggs to pair with their tea but to me their highlight would be the various tea jellies they offer to their guests.

9A Neil Road, Singapore 088808
Tel: +65 6226 1175
Website: www.tea-chapter.com.sg
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The Plain
Coffee. Poached Eggs. Cupcakes. That's how I love my typical weekend brunch to be.

50 Craig Road #01-01, Singapore 089688
Tel: +65 6225 4387
Website: http://www.theplain.com.sg/
Opening Hours: 7.30am-7.30pm daily
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The Toucan Irish Bar
Whenever I pass by the bar, usually in the early afternoons, all I see are people sitting by the table, drinking Guinness. So I was surprise to find out that they do serve main courses. Mmm, how about having a pint to go with your meals?

15 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089598
Tel: +65 6223 5950
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Wok & Barrel
It's all about fusion cuisine if you ask me. Fancy a bak chor mee pasta? How about lamb char siew just to name a few. Surely one can understand the statement "There's always room for desserts." How I wish everyday is a day for their coconut pannacotta with gula melaka syrup topped with red bean ice cream...

13 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089597
Tel: +65 6220 0595
Website: http://www.thewokandbarrel.com/index.html
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Yixing Xuan Teahouse
Looking for affordable Dim Sums? Then this teahouse would fit your criteria. Do not expect them to serve up Dim Sums that's serve all nice and fancy like most restaurants do. It's nothing pretentious and pricey just like I love my Dim Sums just plain and simple. Like the Tea Chapter just a street away, you can always be there to appreciate a cup of tea.

30 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088453
Tel: +65 6224 6961
Website: http://www.yixingxuan-teahouse.com/index.php
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Friday 13 April 2012

The pink room

Every afternoon, when the Sun is at it's brightest, a special type of magic unfolds within this very room...
The whole room with its' four white walls and ceiling would be illuminate in the brightest shade of pink.
So bright that the pink light would spill out of the room and into the dark alley linking the other rooms.

I don't know about you but to me, it's a special one. It's the manifestation of love displayed by my parents.

My mum and dad dotes on their three little princes. So much so that they were willing to give up their master bedroom just for their the three boys. I still clearly remembered the laborious tasks of moving everything from one room to the other.

Such display of love. I guess only another parent would understand...

Mac: My first Big Breakfast

Blamed it on the NO FAST FOOD policy that my family have instill in me since young, I hardly or I should say rarely settle my meals at MacDonald, the typical fast food outlet. I have cravings for all things sweet but not for fast food though...

To some of us, it's a childhood memory. You know the typical family sit down for a lazy weekend breakfast type? But not for me though. My typical childhood memory was having the whole family sitting down at Red Star Restuarant on a Sunday morning and gorging on baskets after baskets worth of Dim Sum.

I guess different family spend their Sundays differently...

Just recently to be exact on the twelfth day of April, I had my first Big Breakfast in maybe three or four years maybe even longer? English muffins, scrambled egg, a salted meat patty and a deep fried harshbrown. It's nothing special though I must say it's rather filling for a breakfast meal.

I personally believe that there are better food out there where I could invest my money on.
Fresher ingredients are always my first priory whenever I eat.
Lastly, I prefer my eggs poached to scrambled. Something like Egg Benedict would be perfect!

I guess the next time I would settle my meals at Mac would be at NYP because it's slightly cheaper than your typical outlet. Even so, it's very very and very unlikely I would eat Macs again.

I know I don't frequent Macs. I know of friends who seems to be perceptually eating Macs.
I shall not comment on their dining habits but what about you, care to share?

Nanyang Polytechnic
180 Ang Mo Kio Ave 8, Singapore 569830

Tuesday 10 April 2012

The life of a blogger

My friends always think I have a good time ever since I started this food blog. Oh yeah, I must admit I am having a good time myself. All those elaborate dinner buffets, fanciful high tea sessions and seamlessly never ending supplies of cakes.At times, it can be quite a challenge for my friends to ask me out for meals because I'm almost always busy meeting people for lunches and high tea.

The life of a prince is nothing but glamour, glamour and more glamour right? Partly true but the hard work behind the scenes. Who will know? Unless you're a accomplished blogger too!

The photo above depicts a typical "office hour", usually in the morning or at night where I would spend a few hours, keeping a look out on the next best place to dine, plan a few makan sessions for the week and then blog about the previous makan session. Sound easy right?

You wished! The effort invested into each post is tremendous! Take for instant, the post on Chiso Zanmai. I spend one afternoon selecting and editing the photos and another afternoon thinking and writing out the post.

See what I mean? I don't just simply churn out posts after posts like machine alright? Of course, I must admit that I was handling something important on both days. What could be so important than blogging? That's for me to know and for you to find out!

Now about planning makan session. It may seem very easy to do right? I mean you just get a few like-minded friends who loves to eat and dine and then just meet them out to enjoy right? I tell you, it's not like what you think.

Take for instant, the post on La Petite Cuisine. My partner was quite skeptical when I said we will be heading down to Cluny Court for lunch. My partner seem alright with the idea until I said we be alighting at Botanical Gardens MRT station and she start asking me are there to see plants? But well, in the end, we had a enjoyable meal ourselves right?

But just how much effort it takes to make it enjoyable? At times, it requires me to take a walk around scouting all the places within the vicinity like I did for Robertson Quay. Most of the time, scouting alone.

You might think why so emo right?

It's good to have accompany at times but there are also moments where I just like some time for myself. Besides, I don't have to worry about anyone melting in the Sun and if I'm tired I can treat myself something good without worrying if it's too pricey for them. My point is, I can do thing at my own leisure time something I don't have when I have companionship with me.

Once I'm done scouting, then I start planning and organizing and then blogging. Basically the start of the whole process again. Passionate? I guess I'm really am the definition for the word passionate :)

To sum up everything I just said. Being a blogger is never easy. Being a food blogger is even tougher!
But at the end of the day, you must find contentment and joy in what you do. That in my opinion, is the No.1 rule in blogging...

Monday 9 April 2012

The 5000th mark

I'm extremely happy to inform all you readers out there, both new and loyal ones that as of the month of April and to be precise, the sixth day of April, thedessertprince has reached the 5000th view mark! I know I know... 5000 views doesn't mean 5000 individual readers but I am currently using google analytics to keep track of my stats. 

Although, I have to say that my achievement still looks meager compared to other celebrity bloggers, raking views much like a gardener raking fallen leaves littered all over the gardens. Nevertheless, despite the small achievement, I am still very very and very happy about it! 

Some of my friends are actually looking forward to my 5000th views because I said I'll organising another makan session with them. 

Once again, Thanks for the support all you readers and a even more special thanks to all my friends, braving through rain and heat just to join me in all my makan sessions and lastly, to a even more special friend. Without whom I would never be inspired to start this food blog.

Sunday 8 April 2012

The Sun

You are the Sun, the center of my heart.
Everything in my life revolves around you. Just like all the other planets do.
The warmth you emit is what I've been seeking for.
With it, everything seems possible. Anything seems achievable.
Without it though, life seems unbearable. Life seems bleak.

At times, I feel like the Pluto in our solar system.
Far from you and away from your presence that's what I always feel.
So insignificant that NASA decided to reclassify Pluto as a dwarf planet instead.
But even so, this dwarf planet still maintain his orbit around you.

There maybe a million or a billion or even a trillion stars out there.
Shining, shimmering and sparkling all at the same time.
But I just want you to know this;
There will only be one Sun in my universe.
And you will always be that only one.

Friday 6 April 2012

For a moment or two...

For a moment or two, I think of you.
"A table for two." That's what I'll reveal.

For a moment or two, I'm smitten over you.
Losing myself amidst your eyes is what I always do.
I look on as I ponder then I ponder as I look on.
When will I have another day... Just me and you.

Thursday 5 April 2012

TCC II: The dessert prince Jr.

He came First in Standard in his whole cohort. He's the Dessert Prince Jr. (My 2nd brother, Edmund.)
The current crown jewel in my family. We are proud of him!

A hectic morning for my family as we head down for an uneventful and boring prize presentation ceremony @ LASALLE College of the Arts, I decided to bring him out for high tea. The Dessert Prince's Style that is.
Dessert Prince Jr. is also another High Tea fanatic just like yours truly...

Initially, we settled on Intercontinental Hotel for High Tea but after consulting my highly sagacious High Tea Partner, I gave a thought and decided that it's best that I made another en-route, least it ruin my love for high tea. I trust my partner's taste, without a single doubt ;)

The Dessert Prince Jr. loves to conduct his private tea sessions at TCC.
Those delicate glass chandeliers dangling just above the bar and the sleek red sexy couches.
There's something about the contemporary modern design that caught Jr. attention. Particularly the one at Bugis, which so happen to be his favorite TCC outlet.
Like royalties we have always been, we picked our little corner and commence our private session...
We royalties do not like to wait and the cakes came promptly. Although I prefer my drinks to come first but at least they served us plain water before hand :)
All hail the King! His Majesty The Royal Pumpkin Chessecake ($5.40). Cheesecake that's infused with delightful sweet pumpkin strands hidden within. We just couldn't stop singing praises of His Majesty!
The Mango Diva ($5.60). Goddess of my revered fruit. Simplistic vanilla shortcakes glamorize with sweet mango mousse. I prefer diva to be in sliced form to the cuppa one. It's just a personal preference.
Iced Cappuccino ($6.90) was what Jr. choose. He love the coffee as much as he love white foam.
Usually, the Chocolate of Wealth is what I would opt for but ever since I started blogging, I feel the need to try out new stuffs instead of sticking to my personal comfort food. Or else, I would bore all of you to death!

In this case, the Strawberry Espresso Dream ($8.30) was something unfamiliar. Marshmallows and strawberry sauce is what caught my eyes. The bitterness from the strong espresso meets the sweetness from the strawberry drink. It's almost like a dream. A bittersweet dream but more on the sweeter aftertaste.
There we were, as noble princes who love high tea...

Bugis Junction #01-92-96
80 Middle Road, Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 6837 2027
Website: www.theconnoisseurconcerto.com

Wednesday 4 April 2012

La Petite Cuisine

A petite bistro located at the first floor of Serene Centre, beside Cluny Court and within walking distance from Botanical Gardens MRT station. La Petite Cuisine is the place to look forward to a heartwarming and affordable lunch or dinner. The French way of course.

Housing a see-through kitchen where diners get to see a French chef whips out dishes after dishes of his traditional hometown cuisine, a few in-door tables that may only hold at most 20 diners? Alfresco style might be the only way to enjoy your meal if you couldn't get a table. Breezy during dinnertime but the unforgiving heat in the afternoons might deter you from dining there as I speak from past experience.

This time, I was there yet again for their simplistic and in my opinion, more than just petite french dishes but with an exception. This time, I've a dining partner who has never heard of the place and naturally hesitant of what it has to offer. At least my partner trust my taste and careful planning like I always invest in all my makan (eating) sessions.

Be expected to walk up personally to the cashier to place your order and pay up.
A little walking never hurts right? Don't be lazy if you wanna eat!
A complementary bread to kick start the late brunch *Both of us didn't had breakfast in the morning.* Nothing special but nothing pretentious. Just simply tear through the baked dough with your hands like my partner does, elegantly with raised pinkies alright?
Did you feel curious why did I mention about them serving more than just petite French dishes in the third paragraph? Then Green Salad with French Dressing ($5.00)  is your answer. The portion was huge! Being someone who always disagree to ordering salads as they are often overpriced, I daresay this is definitely worth ordering. For my partner, she was shocked when she saw the greens on the table.

As for why she was shocked? That's for the two of us to know and for you to ponder...
This photo hardly do justice to Foie Gras Pan-fried with Orange Confit ($18.50). It's a must have dish whenever I dine at the French bistro. A thin layer of crust is just what keeps the soft and buttery foie gras intact. Bathed in a reduced sauce and orange confit. The portion maybe be pathetic but trust me, you know a good foie gras when you see and taste one yourself. At La Petite, I say it's safe to indugle in such luxurious food.

The only justice we could do was simply to finish everything up which we did wholeheartedly!
Over at La Petite, it's very common for the Chef (The only man in white), A French himself to walk from tables to tables engaging the diners. The Chef's a nice guy especially if you sing praises about his cookings, genuinely.

"How's the Confit?" In the heaviest French ascent I've ever heard. The Chef was asking my partner how she finds the Confit De Canard with Gratin Potato ($16.50). He's a concerned man since my partner haven't really started tearing at her duck thigh. That's my partner, she's a slow eater just like me. We simply love to take our time to enjoy.

Concerned before the conversation but assured after watching my partner starting to work her way into the confit :)

I personally love the fried duck left simmered in its' own fat then doused in a rich reduced sauce upon serving. That's why I dare recommend the confit to my partner. The soft potato gratin seemed to won my partner's attention.
I personally would have gone for the confit but I didn't want to be the spoiler getting the same one.
I wanted something light, something fishy was on my mind and I decided to go for the Filet of Fresh Salmon with Baby Spinach ($15.50).

The pan-seared filet was nothing special by itself but with the white creamy sauce with chucks of salmon lurking in it. It's a whole new story. Just like my dining partner who loves her gratin, I found preference in the herb-infused rice. The grains were chewy yet not overly fragrant which might ruin the salmon to sauce combination. It's all complementary. That's what I call flavors at work.
An additional topup of $3.50 will get you a bowl of soup or a dessert. Knowing how much of a tea person my partner was, I decided to get two cuppa of TWG tea. Earl Gray for me and the Paris-Singapore Tea for my partner.

The word unpretentious has been synonymous with the casual French cafeteria and who could deny? Some may not appreciate the true meaning of being unpretentious. Some may out-rightly oppose the thought of it and some might even reject the notion.

La Petite Cuisine might have leave a few bad impression here and there due to their no-fills service but the fact that they are still operating after many years and even seting up another outlet at Upper Thomson, shows that they have won over others just with their rather affordable French dishes and I'm one of them...

Do note that they don't charge GST and service charge here.
Nets and Visa are also accepted now.

Serene Centre #01-05
10 Jalan Serene, Singapore 258748
Tel: +65 6341 3173
Opening Hours: 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30pm-9.30pm
Closed on Mondays

227 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574359
Tel: +65 6459 0553
Opening Hours: 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30pm-9.30pm
Closed on Mondays
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