If you’re a foodie who’s heading to Japan for the first time and you’re not sure which city you should start with, we highly recommend that you slot in Osaka at the top of your list.

Endearingly known as “Tenka no Daidokoro”, which translates to The Nation’s Kitchen, Japan’s second largest metropolitan area is home to a plethora of food options that are sure to leave you spoilt for choice. From bite-sized balls of takoyaki to piping hot bowls of ramen, there is something to eat in pretty much every corner of Osaka. You’ll never go hungry in this gastronomic paradise!

Aside from being a glutton’s idea of heaven, the fast-paced city is jam-packed with plenty of things to see and do. From one of the largest pokemon centres in the world to the majestic Osaka Castle, Osaka is truly a one-stop destination where you can experience the beauty of Japan in a nutshell.

For those of you who need some help with your itinerary, here is our 5D4N guide on what to eat, see and do in the kitchen of Japan.

DAY 1

HAVE LUNCH AT KIMUKATSU

Start your trip off with some tonkatsu at Kimukatsu. The tonkatsu here is more like a pork mille-feuille that is made up of many thin layers of pork. In addition to the original tonkatsu, they also have other flavours like cheese, black pepper, green onion, garlic, sour plum and yuzu pepper.

1-9-19 Dotonbori
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Namba

EXPLORE DOTONBORI 

Prized as one of the hottest tourist destinations in Osaka, Dotonbori is an iconic street that is packed with a never-ending array of things to eat, see and do. This happening, fast-paced stretch of entertainment and restaurants is enough to keep you occupied for an entire day.

Come dusk, the entire place is illuminated by the glows of neon signboards from stores that line the streets and Dotonbori Canal. Do remember to snap a picture of yourself with the famous Glico billboard!

1 Chome-9 Dotonbori Chuo Ward
Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Nearest Station: Osaka-Namba/Kintetsu Nipponbashi

VISIT DOTONBORI KONAMON MUSEUM 

The kitchen of Japan is home to a plethora of scrumptious eats, but one notable candidate that is criminal not to try is the takoyaki. For the uninitiated, takoyaki is a spherical-shaped street snack made of flour-based batter. A typical takoyaki is stuffed with minced or diced octopus but other variations of fillings include tempura scraps, shrimp and ham.

When in Dotonbori, you can check out the Dotonbori Konamon Museum which features a museum that talks about the history of takoyaki, an area where you can make takoyaki wax samples and a booth on level one that pushes out freshly made takoyaki for hungry guests. Adults can also head down to B1 where they can enjoy their takoyaki with carefully selected wine and champagne at the museum’s very own bistro.

1 Chome-6-12 Dotonbor Chuo Ward
Osaka 542-0071, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6214-6678
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Osaka-Namba/Kintetsu Nipponbashi

ENJOY A KAPPO-STYLE DINNER AT KIGAWA 

For the uninitiated, Kappo refers to a multi-course meal that is left entirely up to the chef. To experience an authentic Kappo-style meal, we recommend checking out Kigawa, an institution that is well-known for naniwa-kappo. Elusively hidden in a back alley near the Hozen-ji, Kigawa looks just like one of those ancient houses that are better known as machiya.

1-7-7 Dotonbori
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6211 3030
Daily: 11.30am – 2pm, 5pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

SHOP TILL YOU DROP AT DON QUIJOTE 

If you’re still in the mood to shop after dinner, you can head on over to Don Quijote, Japan’s famous discount chain store that has over 160 outlets across Japan. A Don Quijote store isn’t hard to miss and you can usually identify it by its massive neon signs and iconic penguin mascot.

You can find pretty much anything and everything at Don Quijote; from basic groceries, beauty products and household items to clothes, luggage bags and funky Japanese products, the place will keep you occupied for ages.  Most Don Quijote stores are also open till the wee hours of the morning, so you can do some late night shopping if you can’t sleep.

7-13 Souemoncho Chuo Ward
Osaka, 542-0084, Japan
Tel: +81 6-4708-1411
Daily: 24 Hours
Nearest Station: Osaka-Namba/Nippombashi

**Multiple outlets across Japan

DAY 2

START THE DAY WITH SOME SASHIMI BOWLS FROM KUROMON SANPEI

Primarily a wholesaler, the folks behind Kuromon Ichiba supply fresh seafood as their core business. A few years into the business, they decided to set up Kuromon Ichiba, a small retail-cum-eatery for the mass market. If you love fresh, raw fish, this is a great place to get your fix!

2-4-1, Nipponbashi
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6635 1938
Daily: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Nipponbashi

EXPLORE THE MAJESTIC OSAKA CASTLE 

A visit to Osaka is not complete without visiting the magnificent Osaka-Jo, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. The castle played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century and you can learn more about its past as well as Japan’s history at the museum within the castle. You can also get spectacular views of the castle grounds and the surrounding area from the top of the castle.

Aside from the castle, the area is also home to the Nishinomaru Garden, a gorgeous garden with over 600 cherry trees and a teahouse.

1-1 Osakajo
Chou Ward 540-0002, Osaka, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6941-3044
Daily: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Osakajokoen

Photo Credit: twofatkids 

HAVE LUNCH AT SUSHIRO 

When Sushiro opened their first store at Tiong Bahru Plaza in 2019, Singaporeans went absolutely crazy, and for a good reason too. They are known for consistently pushing out fresh plates of sushi and they sell around 1.36 billion plates annually, making them one of the most popular kaiten sushi chains in Japan. Sushiro is also much cheaper in Japan, so you can binge away and stack those plates high without feeling the pinch in your wallet!

Japan, 530-0041 Osaka Kita Ward
Tenjinbashi 5 Chome 6-24, 1F
Tel: +81 6-4800-1780
Mon to Fri: 11am – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tenjimbashisujirokuchome Station

**Multiple outlets across Japan

Photo Credit: j.jeii

WALK DOWN OSAKA’S LONGEST SHOPPING STREET— TENJINBASHISUJI SHOPPING STREET 

The Sushiro outlet that we mentioned above is located at Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, also known as the longest shopping street in Japan.

Spanning a whopping total of 2.6km, the place has around 800 stores that sell all kinds of things. From clothes to household items and even kimonos and traditional knives, you can spend a good 2 to 3 hours just exploring the area and uncovering hidden gems. Walking down the street is also great exercise!

Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward Osaka
532-0011, Japan
Daily: 10am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tenjimbashisujirokuchome Station

Photo Credit: xu.xit

LEARN MORE ABOUT JAPAN’S HISTORY AT THE OSAKA MUSEUM OF HOUSING AND LIVING 

At the furthest end of Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street near Tenjimbashisujirokuchome Station is Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. It’s great for history buffs or people who are just curious about Japan’s culture.

The museum has interactive exhibits that showcase how people in the past used to live and they even recreated a section of the townscape of Osaka in the late Edo Period. You can also don traditional Japanese costumes for a small fee and have your photos taken; it’ll really make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time!

Japan, 530-0041 Osaka Kita Ward
Tenjinbashi, 6 Chome-4-20
Daily: 10am – 4.30pm
Nearest Station: Tenjimbashisujirokuchome Station

SHOP TILL YOU DROP AT UMEDA

Just close by Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street is Umeda, which is also known as Kita, meaning the ‘North’ district. It is one of the two main cities in Osaka and is considered Osaka’s busiest transportation hub. Aside from that, it is also home to some of Osaka’s largest departmental stores and underground malls, making it one of the best places to get your shopping done.

Some malls here that you can visit are Lucua, Grand Front Osaka, Hankyu, HEP FIVE, and a massive underground shopping street.

Nearest Station: Umeda

Photo Credit: inspirock

VISIT THE LARGEST POKEMON CENTRE IN OSAKA 

Pokemon fanatics will be thrilled to know that the largest Pokemon Centre in Osaka is located right smack in Umeda. Located on the 13th floor of Daimaru Department store and just 5 minutes away from JR Osaka Station, this store will make even non-pokemon fans excited! There is an overwhelming amount of merchandise available as well as limited edition items that you can’t find anywhere else in the world, making it the perfect place to do some gift shopping.

Japan, 530-8202 Osaka Kita Ward
Umeda, 3 Chome-1-1, 13th floor
Tel: +81 6-6346-6002
Daily: 10am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Umeda Station/Osaka-Umeda Station/JR Osaka Station

HAVE DINNER AT GYUKATSU MOTOMURA 

One of our favourite foods in Japan is gyukatsu, also known as deep-fried breaded beef cutlet. There are multiple places across Japan that serve decent gyukatsu, but one of our absolute favourites is Gyukatsu Motomura. The simple menu consists of nothing but gyukatsu with different portion sizes for people with differing appetites. If you love beef and all things fried, you definitely need to try this when you’re in Osaka.

They also have outlets in other parts of Japan such as Tokyo and Kyoto.

Japan, 530-0001 Osaka
Kita Ward Umeda
3 Chome-1-3 LUCUA 10th Floor
Tel: +81 6-6151-1290
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Umeda Station/Osaka-Umeda Station/JR Osaka Station

**Multiple outlets across Japan

Photo Credit: Reijikirihara

SEE OSAKA FROM ABOVE ON THE HEP FIVE FERRIS WHEEL 

Aside from shopping and food, one of Umeda’s main attractions also includes the HEP FIVE Ferris wheel, which is attached to the roof of the mall. You can board it on the 7th floor and it takes about 15 minutes to complete one full circuit. We recommend going in the day so you can have clear views of Osaka from above, but if you prefer the city when it’s lit up, go at night.

5-15 Kakudacho
Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0017, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6313-0501
Daily: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Umeda Station/Osaka-Umeda Station/JR Osaka Station

DAY 3

SLURP UP YOUR BREAKFAST AT ICHIRAN 

When in Japan, it is an absolute must to try Ichiran. This popular Japanese ramen chain has been widely accepted as one of the best spots for tonkatsu ramen and it has most definitely set the benchmark for Japanese ramen.

The broth is unbelievably rich and thick, which pairs well with the springy noodles. They also let you customise your ramen broth, the texture of the noodles, as well as the ingredients you want to have with your ramen. It is, in a nutshell, the perfect bowl of ramen. You have to try it to believe it!

1 Chome-4-16
Dotonbori Chuo Ward
Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Tel:  +81 6-6210-1422
Daily: 24 Hours

**Multiple outlets across Japan

RELEASE YOUR INNER CHILD AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN 

Theme park enthusiasts can’t leave Japan without checking out the exhilarating and magical Universal Studios Japan. Some of their more popular attractions include the backwards-riding Hollywood Dream roller coaster, Space Fantasy and the thrilling Flying Dinosaur. We can also foresee Potterheads spending hours in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which makes you feel like you’re on the actual set of the movie!

2 Chome-1-33
Sakurajima Konohana Ward
554-0031, Osaka, Japan
Nearest Station: Universal-City

Photo Credit: taken.identity

TRY TAKOYAKI AT THE OSAKA TAKOYAKI MUSEUM

Right outside of Universal Studios Japan is Universal Citywalk Osaka, an area that is lined with restaurants, shops, hotels and speciality stores. One place here that you definitely should check out after a fun day of playing is the Osaka Takoyaki Museum. Here, visitors can learn about the origins and history of takoyaki, do some souvenir shopping and sample takoyaki from five popular takoyaki shops.

Japan, 554-0024
Osaka Konohana Ward
Shimaya 6 Chome-2-61 4th Floor
Tel: +81 6-6464-3080
Daily: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Universal-City

HAVE DINNER AT MATSUSAKA BEEF YAKINIKU M

Most people are probably familiar with Kobe beef, but have you heard of Matsusaka beef? Also known as Japanese Black, Black-haired Wagyu or Kuroge Washu, Matsusaka beef from the Mie Prefecture is actually a grade higher than the famous Kobe beef. It has one of the highest fat-to-meat ratios and it has an insanely creamy texture and a sweet aftertaste.

Matsusaka Beef Yakiniku M is a beef paradise that carries the mentioned prized Matsusaka Beef. You will definitely be in for a meaty feast that will leave a lasting impression! We also love the excellent service which helps to enhance the dining experience. Reservations are recommended.

1-1-19, Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel:  +81 6-6211-2904
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 12am
Mon to Fri: 5pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

DAY 4

HAVE FRESH SEAFOOD FOR BREAKFAST AT KUROMON ICHIBA 

Kuromon Market is a seafood lover’s paradise! The 600 metre-long street is packed with stalls selling a multitude of seafood and fresh produce that are handled and prepared right before your very eyes. You can either purchase seafood to cook at home or have the staff freshly prepare it on the spot for you. Apart from seafood skewers like scallops and octopus, you can also find uni (sea urchin) and fugu (blowfish), which are interesting must-try items when in Japan. 

2 Chome-4-1 Nipponbashi Chuo Ward
Osaka, 542-0073, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6631-0007
Daily: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Namba

Photo Credit: yogaquarelle 

GO FOR SOME RETAIL THERAPY AT SHINSAIBASHI 

Shinsaibashi is one of the city’s main shopping areas and this long shopping arcade houses a mixture of both international and local brands. Aside from shops selling the latest fashion items as well as drugstores that are chock full of beauty products, the street also has quaint dessert and coffee houses that are great pit stops in between shopping. Foodies can also look forward to wining and dining at some of the plenty of restaurants available that serve both Japanese and international cuisines.

Nearest Station: Shinsaibashi

HAVE LUNCH AT MIZUNO OKONOMIYAKI 

Mizuno is famous for its okonomiyaki. For the uninitiated, okonomiyaki is one of Japan’s most popular street snacks and refers to a savoury Japanese pancake that originated from Osaka. The restaurant dishes out a variety of pancakes to hungry patrons throughout the day. Among all the options on the menu, the best-seller is the yam flour Okonomiyaki with scallops and roast pork.

1-4-15 Dotonbori
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6212 6360
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

GET YOUR CAFFEINE FIX AT GRANKNOT COFFEE

Located in America-mura, Granknot Coffee is a great coffee spot for all you caffeine addicts to get your midday fix. They have a pretty extensive menu filled with a variety of different coffees; there’s a cuppa for everyone! Aside from coffee, they also have American-style food which includes sandwiches and french toast.

1Chome-23-4 Kitahorie
Nishi Ward, Osaka, 550-0014, Japan
Tel: +81 6 6531 6020
Mon to Wed, Fri: 9am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 6pm
(Closed on Thursdays)
Nearest Station: Nishiohashi

Photo Credit: trixiepgallery

SHOP VINTAGE AT AMERICA-MURA 

To experience Japanese youth culture, head on over to America-mura where you can find plenty of quirky clothes and accessories that are definitely head-turners. People who love to shop vintage can also come here to hunt for unique pieces that are carefully sourced and curated. The whole area is centred around the famous Sankaku Koen Park, where you can sit, people-watch and appreciate the vibrant atmosphere of the place.

Nearest Station: Yotsubashi

TAKE A TRIP TO WONDERLAND AT ALICE ON WEDNESDAY 

Have you ever dreamed of being Alice, falling down a rabbit hole and entering a magical world where you could meet The Madhatter, Cheshire Cat and the gang? You can do so here at Alice On Wednesday, a lifestyle concept store with a magical Alice in Wonderland theme. Step in through the tiny door and be transported to another world; you may not even feel like you’re in Osaka!

Japan, 542-0086 Osaka Chuo Ward
Nishishinsaibashi 2 Chome-12-25
Tel: +81 6-6211-6506
Daily: 11am – 7.30pm
Nearest Station: Shinsaibashi/Yotsubashi

END THE DAY WITH DINNER AT HANAMARUKEN RAMEN 

Ramen lovers in the know will find their way to Hanamaruken. This much-loved Osaka ramen chain has been dishing out hearty bowls of ramen for over 30 years. The broth is made from stewed pork cartilage and the pork that comes with each bowl of ramen is fork-tender and outrageously succulent. We recommend getting their Signature Happiness Ramen bowl, which features tonkatsu ramen with slow-braised pork rib.

1-2-1 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6213 0131
Daily: 24hours
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

**Multiple outlets across Japan

DAY 5

Photo Credit: love_travel_food_kanazawa

HAVE BREAKFAST AT NAKANOSHIMA NADAMAN 

For an authentic and traditional Japanese breakfast, head on over to Nakanoshima Nadaman where they serve kaiseki style meals. For the uninitiated, Kaiseki is a style of traditional Japanese cuisine where small, intricate dishes are prepared and served to diners on a tray. The sets here are all very well-curated with quality ingredients, ensuring you of a fantastic Japanese breakfast experience.

5 Chome-3-68 Nakanoshima Kita Ward
Osaka, 530-0005, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6443-7101
Daily: 7am – 10am, 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 9pm

FULFIL YOUR INSTANT NOODLE CRAVINGS AT THE INSTANT RAMEN MUSEUM (MOMOFUKU) 

Did you know that instant noodles were first invented by Momofuku Ando in Osaka? Nissin Foods was the first company to create and distribute it to the masses. To celebrate this amazing creation that many around the world are thankful for, the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum was born in 2011 and is open to the public to come forth and understand the history and significance of this iconic food.

Here at the museum, you can even customise and make your own cup noodles for a small fee. It makes the perfect memento!

8-25 Masumicho
Ikeda Osaka 563-0041, Japan
Tel: +81 72-752-3484
Thu to Tue: 9.30am – 4pm
(Closed on Wednesdays)
Nearest Station: Muromachi

Photo Credit: aiphoto0508

LOOK AT ADORABLE ANIMALS AT TENNOJI ZOO 

Tennoji Zoo has been around for over 90 years and was the third zoo to be built in Japan. The 11-hectare space is home to over 1000 animals which include specimens from New Zealand and Australia. Aside from that, they also have lions, chimpanzees, a reptile house and a hippo enclosure that mimics the African savanna.

1-108 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward
Osaka, 543-0063, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6771-8401
Daily: 9.30am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Dobutsuen-Mae/Tennoji

Photo Credit: reji.sti

DO SOME LAST MINUTE SHOPPING AT TENNOJI 

Aside from the zoo, Tennoji also has a massive cluster of brightly lit malls and skyscrapers that shopaholics will adore. Some of the malls that you can visit include Tennoji Mio Plaza Mall, Abeno Cues Town and Hoops. There is also a massive Don Quijote and plenty of restaurants that are a short walk away from the train station.

Nearest Station: Tennoji

Photo Credit: w___album

HAVE A BIRD’S EYE VIEW OF OSAKA FROM ABENO HARUKAS

Aside from being a shopping mall that houses a massive department store, an art museum and a hotel, Abeno Harukas, standing at 300 meters tall, is also the tallest skyscraper in Japan.

It would be befitting to place an observation deck on one of the tallest buildings in Japan, so that is exactly what they did. Harukas 300, their observation deck, can be accessed on the 58th, 59th and 60th levels of the building. The massive floor-to-ceiling glass panels provide one with a magnificent 360-degree view of Osaka and we could honestly spend the whole day here just watching the world pass by.

1 Chome-1-43 Abenosuji
Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545-6016, Japan
Daily: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tennoji

Photo Credit: rum_1412

EXPLORE THE COLOURFUL SHINSEKAI 

Shinsekai, in our opinion, is one of the most intriguing neighbourhoods in the whole of Osaka. One step into the area and you’ll feel like you’ve been zipped back to the 1960s. We adore the colourful buildings and loud, quirky decor that gives the place plenty of personality and character. At the heart of it all is the famous Tsutenkaku Tower which stands tall and proud and was designed by architect Tachu Naito, the same man who designed the Tokyo Tower.

The area is also a foodie’s idea of paradise. Here, the streets are lined with rows and rows of restaurants and eateries that sell all kinds of delicious food; it makes you want to try everything!

Nearest Station: Ebisucho/Dobutsuen-Mae/Shin-Imamiya

INDULGE IN SOME CRISPY KUSHIKATSU 

One famous dish that you must try in Osaka is kushikatsu. Also known as kushiage, kushikatsu is essentially deep-fried meat and vegetable skewers. Every skewer is coated with a light batter and deep-fried to a lovely golden brown.

A typical kushikatsu outlet is usually simple and fuss-free, and sells nothing else but skewers and drinks. The options available are usually chicken and beef, vegetables like brinjal and capsicums, eggs and mushrooms. There are over 60 restaurants in Shinsekai that sell kushikatsu and if you’re spoilt for choice, we recommend that you go to Kushikatsu Daruma Shinsekai Sohonten for some quality sticks of fried goodness.

2 Chome-3-9 Ebisuhigashi
Naniwa Ward
Osaka, 556-0002, Japa
Tel: +81 6-6645-7056
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Ebisucho/Dobutsuen-Mae

STUFF YOUR FACE WITH SUSHI FOR DINNER AT KURA SUSHI 

Fans of conveyor belt sushi will adore Kura Sushi, a sushi joint that sells a whole array of sushi at incredibly affordable prices. Besides the cheap price point, you also get to play with the gachapon machines stationed at every table every time you eat a certain number of plates of sushi.

While on the conveyer belt, the plates of sushi also make their rounds in little domes to retain its freshness.

Japan, 556-0002 Osaka, Naniwa Ward
Ebisuhigashi, 2 Chome-6-3 2F
Tel: +81 6-6632-6101
Daily: 11am – 11pm

**Multiple outlets across Japan

Taking over local bakery Prima Deli’s long-time spot in Clementi is One Stone Three Birds. The humble ice cream cafe serves homemade gelato at affordable price points. As there aren’t many speciality dessert cafes in Clementi, One Stone Three Birds might be well on its way to being the go-to ice cream place in central Clementi.

The shop is run by a husband and wife duo, passionate to find new flavours and infusions for their ice cream. Check out what we thought about this new ice cream shop!

Located just a short walk from Clementi MRT, right behind Clementi Mall, is One Stone Three Birds. Just newly opened in August, this new ice cream shop has drawn in quite a bit of an audience as a new dessert spot in this highly-populated area.

Boasting peach-pink walls and funky decor, One Stone Three Birds makes eating ice cream a picture-perfect opportunity.

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We ordered a double scoop of their Salted Caramel and Black Sesame Ice Cream (S$7), accompanied by their chocolate-batter Waffle Sticks (S$3).

Their Salted Caramel ice cream was indulgent and very delicious, being a good blend of salty and sweet. We did notice a few bites of ice cream being a little more salty than we’d like but it was still good nonetheless.

We absolutely loved their Black Sesame ice cream. It was smoky and had a distinct flavour of black sesame, dotted with roasted sesame seeds for a nice textural contrast. Its sweetness was perfectly balanced out by the roasted aroma from the sesame!

Their waffle sticks, made with a waffle iron that had churro-shaped moulds, were crisp on the outside yet moist on the inside. As they were not too sweet, they complemented the ice creams impeccably well.

Check out their other flavours if you’re in Clementi – think Hojicha, Rose and even Espresso Banana!

One Stone Three Birds
443 Clementi Avenue 3, #01-71
Singapore 120443
Mon: 3pm – 9.30pm
Tue to Thu, Sun: 12pm – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

Strolling along Chip Bee Gardens, perhaps Sunday Folks and the Daily Scoop would cross your mind, but we have found another place to add to the list of cafes in the Holland Village enclave – Our Second Home.

Hidden away in the sustainable clothing store, Our Second Nature, is their cafe serving up coffee and some sweet treats. Decked in rustic wooden decor, the beautiful store boasts a comforting vibe – perfect for a midday respite.

Walking into the space, the aroma of coffee was so enticing, we definitely had to order a cup to try so we opted for a hot Latte (S$5). The coffee was smooth and had nutty notes, while having a slightly acidic tang.

To go along with our coffee, we had to try some of their baked goods. We first sampled their Harbour Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookie (S$3). The cookie is speckled generously with chocolate chunks and a small pinch of sea salt on the top.

The classic combo of sea salt and chocolate truly shone in the cookie and even us chewy cookie lovers enjoyed this rather buttery, crunchy treat.

Last but not least, we tried their Lemon Drizzle Butter Cake (S$5.50). A thick slice of lemon infused sponge is coated in a tangy lemon icing glaze. The moment it was set down on the table, the scent of the lemon was immediately apparent.

The cake was moist and perfumed with lemon zest, making for a wonderful afternoon treat. The glaze was tangy and was the perfect topping to the sponge. Paired with the coffee, it was absolutely delectable!

Just a short walk from Holland Village MRT station, this cafe might replace your usual haunts in the area with their minimalistic yet rustic interior. You could also scan through their sustainable clothing pieces that are not just beautiful, but great for the environment too.

Our Second Home
43 Jln Merah Saga, #01-66
Singapore 278115
Mon to Thu: 10am – 6pm
Fri to Sun: 10am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

Olla Specialty Coffee is a mobile coffee company that has been offering their services to events as well as operating coffee bars for companies, but they have finally found a home at Sunset Way now! Occupying a small shop space under a HDB block, this hole-in-the-wall café is the newest addition to the trove of eateries and bakeries in the neighbourhood.

Although this cosy café focuses mainly on coffee, a selection of teas, chocolate, matcha and chai is offered as well. What’s more, the drinks here are priced between S$3 and S$5.50 – super wallet-friendly prices! You can also pair your drinks with some buttermilk waffles and pastries too.

With its minimalist interior and chill vibes, Olla Specialty Coffee is a great place to grab your mid-day cuppa.

Olla Specialty Coffee uses single-origin coffee beans roasted by Nylon Coffee Roasters which are on a rotational basis according to the season. Currently offered are Guatemalan beans that feature tasting notes of berries, raisins and chocolate. Our 5 Oz White (S$4) was smooth and palatable with a nice mouthfeel – a truly satisfying cuppa.

Unlike other establishments, fresh chai is used for their Masala Chai Latte (Soy) (S$5.50). Upon hearing that, we knew we had to give it a try.

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The difference between fresh chai and powdered chai was apparent in our aromatic cup of tea – we could taste the subtle sweetness from the honey that the leaves were preserved in as well as the strong kick of spice.

One of the better chai lattes you can get in Singapore, what you get here is full-on chai that is smooth and enjoyable.

We also got their signature Ondeh Ondeh Waffles (S$13.50) to accompany our drinks. The buttermilk waffle was airy and fluffy on the inside, and delightfully crisp on the outside. We loved that it also stayed that way till the end – signs of a well-executed waffle!

Perched on top of the waffle was a generous scoop of gula melaka gelato that was not too overwhelming and had the perfect consistency. The desiccated coconut provided a good crunch with every bite too. It’s served with a side serving of gula melaka sauce as well if you want to amp up the sugar.

Unfortunately, they ran out of the pandan sauce that was supposed to balance out the sweetness of the gula melaka components, so our waffle was to the sweeter side. But, we must say we thoroughly enjoyed their version of the Ondeh Ondeh dessert.

Describing themselves as just an ordinary place with extraordinary coffee and waffles, we can totally attest to that!

109 Clementi Street 11 #01-03
Singapore 120109
Tue to Sun: 8am – 6pm
(Closed on Monday)
Nearest Station: Clementi

Tucked away at Kallang Wave Mall is Omoomodon, serving Halal Korean fusion rice and noodle bowls with a unique twist. Omoomodon is pronounced as ‘Omo-Omo-Don’. ‘Omo-omo’ is derived from the popular Korean slang “Oh My!”, while ‘don’ is translated to bowl in Japanese. The Korean expression in the name is used to depict pleasant surprise when their diners tuck into tasty customisable fusion bowls.

The wallet-friendly prices mean you will not have to break the bank. With the option to customise your meal exactly how you want—from your own rice bowl to a warm bowl of ramen or a delicious plate of steak—there are endless possibilities to what you can choose at Omoomodon.

We ordered the Omo Remix (S$12) and the Chasuken Ramen (S$13.50). The Omo Remix was served with Korean White Rice, Ebi Tempura, Chicken Cutlet, Pumpkin Croquette, Curry, Nori, Furikake and Onsen Tobikko.

The Chicken Cutlet was tender and did not lose its juiciness in the process of deep-frying. The Ebi Tempura was tasty and the batter for this was well-seasoned. The highlight of the three was definitely the Pumpkin Croquette; we were surprised by how creamy and mouth-watering the inside was at first bite, and it contrasted nicely with the crispy breadcrumb coating.

The egg was still oozy when we cut into it, and the short grain rice was fragrant and fluffy.

The Chasuken Ramen came in a large portion with Soy Garlic Broth, Chicken Char Siew, Onsen Tobikko, Black Fungus, and Nori. The egg for this dish was flowy as well, giving the dish a creamier flavour. The succulent Chicken Char Siew was slightly sweet from the marinade and was absolutely delicious.

The noodles were springy and complemented the star of the dish wonderfully: the Soy Garlic Broth. Incredibly flavourful without being too salty, we loved the broth so much and needless to say, we completely devoured this entire dish.

By the time we finished our meal, lunchtime came around and Omoomodon was packed with young workers awaiting a table. Clearly, this restaurant is a popular lunch destination.

1 Stadium Place
Kallang Wave Mall, #01-40
Singapore 397628
Tel: +65 6702 1835
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Stadium

Our Toast Our Times is a classroom-themed café nestled in the food heaven of Taman Mount Austin, Johor Bahru that will give you a major throwback to your school days.

Exuding the vibes of a Taiwanese high school drama, this cafe takes on innovative twists to old-school delights and their menu sees a stunning array of over 50 dishes with choices ranging from sandwiches, toasts to hearty mains.

They take on a ballsy, adventurous and an unconventional approach in terms of flavour combinations. Read on to find out whether their ballsy attempt to combine various intense flavours is a success or a misstep.

The Dark Rider Sandwich (RM9.90) was one dish that piqued our interests as soon as we saw it on the menu.

Served with a side of french fries, this unique sandwich sees an interesting combination of bacon, egg, cheese, lettuce and dark chocolate sauce sandwiched between slices of charcoal toast.

Their creation reminded us of STACK, a Muslim-owned sandwich parlour in Singapore that is unafraid to channel innovation into their food.

However, the sweet-savoury combination in the Dark Rider Sandwich wasn’t something we were particularly fond of. We thought that the intense flavours from the bacon and dark chocolate sauce clashed and overpowered those of the cheese, egg and lettuce.

While we appreciated their creativity, it didn’t quite make the cut taste-wise. Perhaps the other sandwich offerings on the menu would have been better options.

Next, we opted for their Cotton Candy Toast (RM6.50). Essentially buttered toast topped with marshmallows and chocolate sauce, it’ll be a perfect treat for those with a sweet tooth and those who love marshmallows. Other than that, there was nothing much to shout about this dish. Perhaps the marshmallow pieces could have been torched slightly before serving.

Our Toast Our Times
57-G, Jalan Austin Heights 8/5
Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru
Johor, Malaysia
Tel: +60 7-359 5412
Daily: 8.30am – 6pm

It’s finally TGIF after a really hard week and your crew is looking for a spot in town to unwind because it’s a central location for everyone. Or maybe it’s time for a celebration and it’s your turn to plan where to go. Perhaps, you’re just looking for a place where the food’s impressive, the ambience is cosy and the drinks are super affordable. In so many ways, Oriole Coffee + Bar has got you covered.

From 1 April to 31 May 2019, every dine-in party of five and more will receive a non-alcoholic welcome drink with every main ordered—as long as someone pays with a Mastercard. Mastercard holders are also entitled to 15% off on all a la carte items at Oriole Coffee + Bar.

On top of that, Oriole Coffee + Bar sweetens this deal from 1 April to 31 May 2019 by throwing in an all-day promotion for full pints of Kronenbourg Blanc going at S$10 nett all day long! Do note that both promotions perks are not valid with other promotions, vouchers, or discounts in the same transaction.

Whether you are a coffee connoisseur, an alcohol aficionado or just someone who appreciates a hearty brunch, Oriole Coffee + Bar has something for everyone. The cherry on top of the cake is their strategic location right in the heart of Somerset, making it an incredibly accessible and central spot that is perfect for gatherings with your friends and loved ones.

S$10 NETT PINTS OF KRONENBOURG BLANC

Nothing brings a group of people together like a round (or ten) of drinks. Whether it is a long-awaited gathering amongst a group of friends, a post-work unwinding session with your colleagues or just simply cracking a cold one with the boys (or girls), a little bit of booze to go with the bantering has always been the perfect way to bond.

Oriole Coffee + Bar recognises that and will be having an all-day promotion for Kronenbourg Blanc from 1 April to 31 May 2019, where each pint will be going for just S$10 nett, all day long. This gives you even more reason to destress and have a mid-day drink with some friends!

WELCOME DRINKS WITH EVERY MAIN COURSE WHEN YOU DINE IN A GROUP OF 5

If you’re planning to go in a large group, we have even better news for you! From 1 April to 31 May, if you dine in groups of 5 and above, you will receive a non-alcoholic welcome drink with every main ordered when you pay with Mastercard. Take this as a sign for you and your pals to finally have that much-needed meet-up session!

Do note that both promotions are not valid with any other discounts or promotions.

FINGER FOOD THAT’S TOO GOOD TO SHARE

One thing that we really love about Oriole Coffee + Bar is how they have a number of dishes that are great for sharing. That definitely includes their extensive range of finger foods that go incredibly well with a pint of ice cold beer!

Whether you’re looking for a fried-chicken-with-beer combo or just wanting one of Oriole’s signature light bites, Har Cheong Gai (S$16++) would be your best bet. Shrimp-paste marinated chicken wings are fried to a lovely golden-brown crisp and served with a saucer of sambal belacan that is very mildly spicy.

A staple finger food that can hardly go wrong is Truffle Fries (S$14++). Liberally sprinkled with salt, truffle oil and shaved parmesan cheese, it’s one addictive bowl of crispy shoestring fries that you’re going to have to share as much as you might hate to.

Aside from finger food, Oriole Coffee + Bar’s extensive menu has a plethora of other scrumptious dishes that are great for sharing among friends. With mouthwatering options such as Philly Cheese Tenderloin Sandwich (S$22++), Cubano Meatwich (S$18++) and Triple Cheese Pizza (S$18++), you will definitely be left spoilt for choice.

HEARTY MAINS

If you can’t make up your mind, we recommend getting the Pumpkin & Feta Cheese Pizza (S$20++) which features an assortment of delicious and fresh-tasting meatless toppings such as roasted pumpkin, arugula, feta cheese, tomatoes and caramelised onion that are scattered generously atop a hand-pulled dough base that has been stretched to delicate perfection.

For something that best encompasses sweet, savoury, soft and crunchy, you can opt to have their Chicken & Waffle (S$18++). The freshly made waffle is slathered with a savoury bacon jam and arranged neatly atop, is a massive slab of crispy fried chicken as well as a fried egg. The dish comes with a side of crème Fraiche which adds a subtle tartness and creamy indulgence when eaten together with the chicken and waffle.

The Oriole Truffle Burger (S$22++), which comes with a side of fries, has a mild truffle fragrance that immediately hits you as you take your first bite. Sandwiched between fluffy brioche buns is a stack of juicy grilled grain-fed beef patty, sautéed mushrooms, caramelised onions, melted cheese, truffle aioli, and tossed greens. Although the beef patty could have had a stronger meaty flavour, the rest of the ingredients made up for it.

If you prefer something from the ocean you can always opt for the Fish Tacos (S$22++) which are essentially battered red snapper fillets and red cabbage slaw encased in a lightly toasted taco shell. The fork-tender red snapper was encrusted in a crisp, golden brown exterior that let out a satisfying crunch when we bit into it.

For heavier meats, St. Louis Pork Ribs (S$30++) is a half-slab serving of BBQ ribs with sweet potato fries and crunchy purple cabbage slaw. The pork was tender soft and we easily pulled it off the bone. The coat of sticky kecap manis (Indonesian sweet soy sauce) wasn’t too sweet and didn’t overwhelm the pork. The saucer of chilli relish it came with was a tad citrusy, lifting the heavy flavours of the ribs.

END YOUR MEAL ON A SWEET NOTE

We sang nothing but praises for their ambrosial Sticky Date Pudding (S$12++) which was the perfect way to balance out the savouriness of the other dishes. The dense pudding that lay in a pool of saccharine toffee sauce was served warm and in contrast, it was finished off with a dollop of ice cold ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery®.

This ambrosial dessert sees a dense pudding sponge, placed in the middle of a plate and surrounding it is a moat of warm, velvety toffee sauce. Indulgent, and we dare say, sinful, this dessert is finished with a huge scoop of fresh vanilla ice cream over top. The ice cream sparks a lovely contrast with the warm pudding and toffee sauce, giving you an interesting burst of sensations and flavours with each spoonful. We highly suggest that you start on the dessert once it hits the table as the warmth from the pudding makes the ice cream melt fast.

With its inviting atmosphere, central location, fantastic food and wallet-friendly drinks, what is there not to love about Oriole Coffee + Bar? A one-stop cafe located smack in the heart of town where the qualities of great brunch-style nosh, good vibes and affordable drinks cohesively intertwine, Oriole Coffee + Bar is where it’s at if you’re looking for a memorable night out with your pals.

If you’re planning to head down anytime soon, remember to take full advantage of their S$10 nett per pint Kronenbourg Blanc promotion as well as bring along a big group of friends to get your hands on some of those welcome drinks!

Oriole Coffee + Bar
96 Somerset Road, #01-01
Pan Pacific Serviced Suites (next to 313@Somerset)
Singapore 238163
Tel: +65 6238 8348
Sun to Thu: 8am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 12am
Nearest Station: Somerset
G: @oriolecoffee
Website: www.oriole.com.sg

This post was brought to you by Oriole Coffee + Bar.

]]> https://www.ladyironchef.com/2019/03/oriole-coffee-bar-singapore/feed/ 0 https://www.ladyironchef.com/2018/10/ocha-fresh-thai/ https://www.ladyironchef.com/2018/10/ocha-fresh-thai/#comments Mon, 29 Oct 2018 17:01:19 +0000 Tamilyn Lim https://www.ladyironchef.com/?p=171150 Continue reading →]]>

Determined to serve customers hearty Thai dishes just the way they should be but in a modern setting, OchaFresh Thai is a no-frills Thai eatery that dishes out healthy Thai food without the use of MSG.

This 10-week-old establishment features a cosy yet modern dining experience, serving quality Thai cuisine at affordable prices.

We managed to speak to the owner of the restaurant before he went home to fulfil his daddy duties and realised that their restaurant caters mainly to the lunch crowds as it was located right smack in the CBD area—which explains why there wasn’t a single soul when we arrived at dinner time.

He went on to explain that they do not believe in taking shortcuts, which is why their food takes longer to prepare so be prepared to wait a good 15 minutes before your food arrives as everything is prepared from scratch. Their menu boasts a modest selection of Thai favourites as well as healthy rice bowls, of which all do not contain any MSG.

First up on our table was the Grilled Chicken And Basil Rice Bowl (S$10.50++), which came with grilled chicken stir-fried with holy basil and long beans that sits atop a bowl of healthy whole grain rice.

We could tell that the chicken was flame-grilled due to the robust smoky aroma but it was a tad too dry for our liking. However, the minty basil and long beans tossed in chilli padi added a punch to the dish, which definitely made up for it.

You can also choose to add on an appetiser for just S$3 and we got ourselves the classic Papaya Salad. It came with a decent amount of thinly sliced papaya, carrots and long beans, which adds a crunchy bite to the dish.

However, we found the salad to be pretty bland, which was rather disappointing.

For those who can’t take spice but still want to have a go at an authentic Thai curry, try their Magic Masaman (S$12++), which features a non-spicy curry that comes with tender chunks of slow-cooked beef, potatoes and peanuts.

The smell of curry instantly filled the air as it was being served to us, arousing our appetite. The tender beef was pull-apart-tender and the addition of crunchy peanuts added a textural dimension to the dish.

Ocha Fresh Thai
182 Cecil Street, #02-16/17
Frasers Tower Tanjong Pagar
Singapore 069547
Tel: +65 63043292
Mon to Fri: 10am – 8pm
Closed on Saturdays & Sundays
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Cafes and artisanal coffee shops can be found in abundance these days leaving many to snub their noses at the thought of instant, powdered coffee. Some might argue that it fairs poorly compared to the real, freshly brewed thing; but while you may shun it, you cannot deny that far predating the current frenzy of drip coffee, single origin varietals, and latte art, people were obsessed with instant.

For us, whenever we crave a quick caffeinated fix before a long gruelling day, our go-to would be, more often than not, OLDTOWN White Coffee’s 3-in-1 blends. Boasting a wide array of instant coffee delights—from the humble Mocha to the crowd-favourite Hazelnut and even several options with less sugar for the health conscious—OLDTOWN White Coffee really does astound. Who knew instant coffee could be so addictive?

New to their repertoire of 3-in-1 coffee types, the colossal brand is proud to introduce their Extra Rich varietal. Featuring OLDTOWN White Coffee’s iconic blend of 3 premium beans and prepared in a dark roast method, what you can expect from Old Town’s 3-in-1 Extra Rich Coffee is a flavour bomb that is robust, bold and well, extra rich.

Here’s why the OLDTOWN White Coffee 3-in-1 Extra Rich needs to be on your next grocery list.

When it comes to convenience and quality with regards to instant, powdered coffee, few fair as well as OLDTOWN White Coffee’s products. For one, they are hassle-free and the powder dissolves easily without forming lumps.

Known to trump so many others in terms of taste and caffeine kick, what we particularly adore about the OLDTOWN White Coffee 3-in-1 Extra Rich is its exquisite taste. Made up of 3 premium beans and prepared in one of the brand’s signature methods, the resultant beverage is one that is undeniably richer and bolder in flavour.

The coffee itself is smooth and not as sweet—which is great for if you’re planning to lay off the sweets. It carries a heady aroma of bittersweet chocolate and a subtle smokiness that rounds everything out beautifully.

We would not necessarily compare this to a morning coffee, for its sheer complexity would be wasted as a mere morning perk-me-up.

If anything, this particular coffee should be enjoyed at the end of the day or even in the middle of a hectic workday because taking into consideration its taste and smoothness, it really is the perfect beverage to have to take the edge off.

We’ve had our fair share of instant coffee over the years, but none have impressed, let alone helped us better relax than OLDTOWN White Coffee 3-in-1 Extra Rich. We’re not fooling around, every household and office pantry needs to stock up on it.

Whether you’re a stressed-out office worker, a student or even a fitness junkie, OLDTOWN White Coffee will do the trick; we are addicts, really.

This post was brought to you by OLDTOWN White Coffee.

Whether you crave chicken that’s baked, fried or smothered in ice cream (yes, we’re serious), Oven & Fried Chicken has it all covered. Expect to tuck into a splendid array of crispy-beyond-belief Korean-style fried chicken, tender baked chicken as well as a fine selection of Korean traditional side dishes.

Located along Tanjong Katong Road, this humble Korean fried chicken joint may not seem like much from the outside, but truth be told the chicken we had here were some of the best we have ever tried in Singapore.

FRIED RICE CHICKEN

To kick things off, we got the Fried Rice Original Chicken (S$18), which upon arrival, blew us away with its fresh-out-the-fryer aroma and crispy golden skin.

What makes their chicken unique to other Korean fried chicken joints is their use of rice flour as opposed to regular flour, which ensures that the chicken achieves an unbelievably crispy crust without being greasy at all. The flour also helps to lock in moisture, allowing each bite to be jam-packed with steaming chicken goodness.

SAUCED RICE CHICKEN

For fried chicken with attitude, the Sauced Original Rice Chicken (S$20) is a great choice. What you get is the same crispy chicken but with a generous coating of their homemade sauce, that brims with sweetness and a subtle spicy kick to further elevate the taste of the chicken.

We have tried many variations of this dish, but what really had us hooked was the fact that the saucy layer was neither gloopy nor overly sweet. Just the right consistency to coat the chicken without overwhelming its flavour too much.

ROASTED CHICKEN

Succulent, smoky and brimming with subtle herbal notes, we thoroughly enjoyed their Roasted Original (S$17) as well, for the fact that it was a whole different experience in itself.

Roasted to perfection, the chicken was tender, juicy and tasted a notch higher than your average oven-roasted chicken. The secret lies in the marinade, the duration of which the chicken is allowed to soak up all those aromatic flavours as well as the perfect cooking temperature, ensuring that the chicken does not dry out.

FRIED CHICKEN WITH ICE CREAM

For the ballsy, do consider one of the kitchen’s recommendations, the brainchild of the chef himself, the Yogurt Salad Chicken (S$22). Just a disclaimer, there wasn’t actual yoghurt in this but rather two scoops of Neapolitan-flavoured ice cream.

We particularly loved that each dip was different. Some bites were heavier on strawberry, some on chocolate and some, with the flavours of all three—delicious!

Some may say that this rendition is unorthodox as far as fried chicken is concerned but boy does it work. Dunking piping hot pieces of crispy fried chicken into ice cream was never something to cross our minds but now that we have tried this, it will probably change the way we eat fried chicken forever.

GINSENG CHICKEN

In light of all that greasy goodness (not that there was much, to begin with), a good, comforting dish to order is their Ginseng Chicken (S$12).

The chicken within was literally fall-off-the-bone tender while the rice at the bottom provided body to the dish. As the dish simmers over a period of time, the starch from the rice thickens it, making for a heartier, more robust soup.

Oven & Fried Chicken
230 Tanjong Katong Road
Singapore 437018
Tel: +65 6247 9242
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 1am
Tue & Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.40pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

A well-known gem for quality brunch item and strategic location near Somerset MRT station, Oriole Coffee + Bar has recently expanded their menu and upped their game in the local cafe and bar scene.

Whether it is gourmet coffee that you are craving or alcohol for you to indulge in during a night out with your friends, Oriole Coffee + Bar posits as one of the best spots in town for you to have a meal at and chill out. Founded in 2008, this diner has an interesting concept as it transforms from a hipster cafe during the daytime to a snazzy bar by dusk.

We’ve been frequenting Oriole Coffee + Bar since its opening and we have to say that their food and coffee are consistently good—if not, getting better and better over the years—and it is one of our favourite cafes in Singapore.

From now until 31 May 2018, diners who spend S$35++ with Mastercard are treated to Oriole Coffee + Bar’s signature Har Cheong Gai at only $1++! Do note that the promotion is only valid from Monday through Friday, 11am to 3pm, excluding eve and day of public holidays at the Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard outlet.

THE CONCEPT

Oriole Coffee + Bar is essentially a specialty coffeehouse in the day and a bar by night. During the day, guests get to indulge in hearty meals while watching the skilled baristas in action as they create each cup of coffee with precision and care.

When night falls, get ready to be serenaded with live music as you knock down pints of beer or sip on cocktails throughout the night. Their all-encompassing drinks menu features cocktails, draft beers, wine and spirits.

Situated in Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard which is just right beside 313@Somerset, Oriole Coffee + Bar definitely does not fall short in terms of serving quality grub to cater to both locals and tourists around the area.

HEARTY ALL-DAY BREAKFAST ITEMS

Don’t we all love all-day breakfast items? If you are like us who cannot wake up early, Oriole Coffee + Bar has plenty of options for All-Day Breakfast meals, which are available from 8am to 6pm daily.

One of their highly recommended dishes is the Fully Loaded (S$22) that will surely, well, leave you loaded and fuelled. Choose how you would like your eggs to be cooked, and have them with 2 types of meat, maple-glazed bacon, roasted potatoes, roasted tomatoes, mushrooms, baked bean and multigrain toast. There is also a gluten-free option for their multigrain toast!

For those with a smaller appetite and looking for a wholesome or vegetarian option, the Bircher (S$12) is a blend of healthy Greek yoghurt, rolled oats, fruits and granola.

COFFEE FOR THE DAY

Be it hot or cold coffee, Oriole Coffee + Bar will have you covered.

Coffee connoisseurs will definitely appreciate the effort taken by Oriole Coffee + Bar to offer the best brews in Singapore by travelling to countries like Ethiopia to source for beans and roasting them locally. Aside from single origin coffee brews, cold brews served black, with milk or non-dairy M.A.D milk (cold-pressed nut milk) are some crowd favourites you will be able to enjoy at the coffee specialty house.

In particular, the Death Cream (S$10++) is a special concoction of vanilla beans, espresso and cream – high level of caffeine well-balanced with the ensuing vanilla taste.

Otherwise, try their other signature in-house cold brew, Taisho White (S$8++), which is made using Oriole’s in-house signature Raven blend on the daily. Nitro cold brew lovers will be excited to hear that Oriole Coffee + Bar has recently introduced 5 different types of Nitro Cold Brew (S$7) too!

CLASSIC PIZZAS TO LOVE

This new addition to their extensive food menu is something to love. We sang nothing but praises for their Margherita Pizza (S$18), which was generously topped with fresh buffalo mozzarella, tomato confit, parmesan cheese and basil leaves.

This dish would be good for sharing amongst a group of friends—but we wouldn’t promise that you and your buddies will not be fighting over the last slice!

SEAFOOD OPTIONS

Also a newly introduced dish, the Pan-Seared Barramundi (S$26) features a fresh fillet with nutty romesco sauce.

They also have other seafood options, such as Garlic Prawn Risotto (S$25) and classic Fish and Chips (S$20).

TRUFFLE MAC AND CHEESE

Do not be fooled by their Truffle Mac and Cheese (S$24) which is seemingly unappealing because the flavours are actually very on point. Unlike many dishes that claim to have truffle yet do not have a hint of truffle taste, the taste of truffle in this dish was extremely piquant for us.

Imagine freshly baked macaroni in cheese and topped off with chunky pieces of crabmeat, crunchy corn and then rounding it all up with aromatic truffle oil; it is any cheese lover’s wildest dreams come true.

PHILLY CHEESE STEAK

Open up their Philly Cheese Steak (S$18) to find a chock full of well-marinated beef, mozzarella cheese, caramelized onions, mushrooms and capsicums sandwiched between toasted ciabatta bread.

With just the right proportion of the various ingredients, the sandwich is neither overwhelmingly sweet nor salty, making it very well-balanced.

FINGER FOOD

Look forward to close to 10 bar snack choices which are available from 11am onwards daily. These snacks go hand-in-hand with their beers and cocktails!

For an insanely addictive snack for sharing with friends, the Spam Fries (S$12++) is THE bar snack you have to get when you are at Oriole Coffee + Bar. Thick cuts of luncheon meat are deep-fried until crispy, making this sinful side the perfect accompaniment to your bubbles and ice-cold beer.

Oh what can we say, really? This is a guilty pleasure we are willing to forgo our diet for!

HAR CHEONG GAI AT ONLY S$1++

We have yet to meet a Singaporean who doesn’t enjoy Har Cheong Gai (S$16++). For the uninitiated, Har Cheong Gai is actually deep-fried chicken wings marinated with shrimp paste.

From now until 31 May 2018, Mastercard® cardholders can enjoy an exclusive deal—a serving of Har Cheong Gai at only S$1++ (U.P. S$16++) with a minimum spend of S$35++ on a la carte items in a single receipt.

Simply pay using any local or overseas Mastercard® credit or debit card to enjoy this deal! This promotion runs on weekdays from 11am to 3pm.

BAR BY DUSK

At 7pm daily, Oriole Coffee + Bar will feature a live band to bring out the chill vibes for the perfect ambience to have a glass of cocktail or beer after work. The outdoor seats will give you the best view of the live performances while you enjoy your meals and/or drinks.

We reckon that we aren’t the only ones who love their concept of ‘Café by Day, Bar by Dusk’, right? Besides whipping up quality grub and serving gourmet coffee, get some alcoholic drinks here at Oriole Coffee + Bar at night after a long day at work!

Oriole Coffee + Bar
96 Somerset Road, #01-01, Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard
Singapore 238163
Sundays to Thursdays: 8am – 11pm
Fridays and Saturdays: 8am – 12am
Tel: 6238 8348
Nearest Station: Somerset

This post is brought to you by Oriole Coffee + Bar.

For students, working professionals, freelancers and digital nomads, conducive work-friendly cafes in Singapore are never enough and at some of these places, you still have to deal with unstable WIFI, boring freezer food and coffee that is mediocre at best. Now, who has the time for that?

Here comes O’Coffee Club Xpress—a casual cafe that is equipped with free WIFI, power sockets, a curated range of gourmet food and coffee selections, as well as convenient Grab & Go salads and sandwiches for the busy people.

O’Coffee Club Xpress isn’t just for those who are looking for a workspace; if you want affordable lunch sets or a place for a quick lunch, this will be your answer too.

With six outlets islandwide, here is everything to love about the new O’Coffee Club Xpress.

O’COFFEE CLUB XPRESS CONCEPT

With six outlets islandwide, O’Coffee Club Xpress can be found at SMU, Raffles Place, Jurong Point, North Point and Changi Airport Terminals 2 and 4. The cafe runs a fuss-free, semi self-service concept with a range of Western-style hot food options and superfoods at the Grab & Go chiller.

Setting themselves apart from other coffee chains in Singapore, visitors are able to enjoy hearty food made from fresh and natural ingredients daily.

HOT & COLD CAFFEINE BEVERAGES

At their latest Changi Airport T4 outlet, coffee addicts will be pleased with the range of caffeine beverages using coffee beans that are roasted locally. Their coffee beans are being sourced from 7 different countries. Watch them brew your coffees at any of the O’Coffee Club Xpress hand brew bar in Singapore where they feature 3 distinct brewing methods!

Their 100% Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee Beans are also available for purchase at the stores.

O’Coffee Club Xpress also have various types of iced blends for all those who do not particularly favour hot drinks. Choose from a wide variety of iced blends—including mocha, caramel and vanilla!

Another cold beverage option not to miss is the Frozen Espresso Latte, in which espresso is frozen into ice cubes and put together with milk so it prevents your drink from watering down.

NITRO COLD BREW ON TAP

Have we mentioned that their Cold Brew is amazing? The Organic Jeju Cold Brew is definitely a notch above the rest.

For those who have yet to try Nitro cold brew coffee, it is essentially draft coffee infused with nitrogen which results in a smoother mouthfeel when you drink it. Give the intense and refreshing cold brew a try! 

LIGHT BITES

The bestseller at O’Coffee Club Xpress is their customisable waffles. Diners get to pick their own waffle flavour—namely Matcha, Red Velvet, Charcoal and Original. But don’t stop there! Carry on your creation with their exciting savoury and sweet toppings.

Every waffle order is served with Coffee Maple Flavoured Syrup and Salted Gula Melaka.

We went for Matcha Waffle with Orange Mascarpone Cheese and Mixed Berries, Charcoal Waffle topped with Salted Egg Chicken and Red Velvet Waffle with Bratwurst Sausage and Scrambled Eggs.

For something comforting, give their Croque Madame a try. While it looks unassuming, the cheese-laden sandwich was the energy booster we needed to start our day on the right note.

Lavishly filled with layers of Virginia Ham, cheese, béchamel sauce and finished with a runny egg on the top, the Croque Madame makes for a great breakfast option! All you need is to pair it with a cup of hot coffee to complete the meal.

Those who are visiting O’Coffee Club Xpress in Changi Airport T4 can also opt for the French Toast, which is exclusively available at that outlet only.

If pastries are your thing, you will find plenty of options at O’Coffee Club Xpress. Watch the pastry chef craft them from scratch at the open kitchen beside the pastry counter.

Their in-store bakery carries all sorts of aromatic pastries and some highlights are Apple Turnover, Chicken Pie, Strawberry Basket and Jumbo Sausage Braid. All pastries can be warmed up upon request and are made fresh to order.

GOURMET FOOD SELECTION

Refuel your brains with some wholesome food; there are a ton of hot food options too.

Our favourite of the lot is the Chili Crab Pasta but be warned that it is not for the faint-hearted! It captures the essence of our favourite Singaporean local delight pretty well with the pasta being topped with a generous amount of chilli crab sauce and crab meat.

On days when you feel a little more famished, the Baked Yakiniku Chicken Thigh is what you need to go for. Together with the glorious golden brown chicken thigh, this dish is accompanied with creamy mashed potato and refreshing garden salad.

Full Breakfast, Eggs Benedict, Sausage & Mash and Salted Egg Prawn Pasta are just some other choices on the menu.

IT’S A MEATY MEATY AFFAIR

Lunch is the best time to visit O’Coffee Club Xpress as that is when you get to enjoy their Meaty Meaty Platter!

Featuring BBQ baby pork ribs, chicken chop, sausage, crispy bacon, sunny sid ups, mashed potato, side salad and creamy pepper sauce dip, this platter can be broken down into individual sets with sides.

GRAB & GO

If you are in a rush, O’Coffee Club has a convenient Grab & Go station that offers healthy and wholesome food options. A wide range of freshly-made salads and sandwiches are available, with the inclusion of our favourite Wasabi Prawn & Avocado and Smoked Duck salads on the premium line!

Besides that, all sandwiches can be warmed up upon request and are made fresh upon order!

Do note that every O’Coffee Club Xpress outlet differs in aesthetics and ambience, so even if you’ve been to one, you haven’t been to all. There are six outlets in Singapore waiting for you to check out!

This post is brought to you by O’Coffee Club Xpress.

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Located on the first level of Gek Poh Shopping Centre in Jurong West, OH MY MANGO is a new dessert cafe that breathes new life into the somewhat run-down neighbourhood shopping centre. Specialising in Thai-inspired sweet treats, their menu boasts more than 40 different items from desserts to colourful beverages and even assorted Shibuya toasts that are available in both sweet and savoury varieties.

If you think that this is just another neighbourhood dessert pitstop, think again. On their menu, you can expect to find some pretty interesting offerings such as their Tom Yum Goong Toast (S$6.90) which is somewhat similar to a pizza except with the addition of the spicy and zesty flavours of Thailand’s iconic dish.

Those living in the West of Singapore truly have something to be glad about, especially with so many interesting cafes and eateries sprouting up around the area. Whether it’s a quick coffee run or a much-needed sugar spike, OH MY MANGO Dessert Cafe is a great option to consider.

This humble establishment has both indoor and outdoor seating but ordering is done in the separate unit just next door. Here, the overall appearance is kept minimalistic with plenty of hipsterish decors to give it a cafe-like vibe.

Their menu features more than 40 items ranging from sweet bingsu, a wide array of Shibuya toast options and a pretty extensive range of beverage options—from the iconic Thai milk tea to some quirky innovations.

Going by the name of OH MY MANGO, it would be a waste if we did not try at least one mango dessert, and boy were we impressed by the Fresh Mango Toast (S$10.90).

Comprising a scoop of mango-flavoured ice cream, cubes of deliciously sweet mango and a sprinkling of crushed almonds atop a thick and crispy slab of buttery toast, this to us gives the typical ice-cream-and-waffle combination a serious run for its money.

For the matcha fans, the Matcha Green Tea Bingsu (S$9.90) works up a real treat especially with the addition of a sticky red bean purée and crushed almonds that not only provides a nice texture to the bingsu but also bolsters the bitter green tea flavour with a hint of sweetness.

Anyone who loves Thai food will surely appreciate their Mango Sticky Rice (S$6). Simply put, this popular Thai dessert comes with no gimmicks attached. It comprises sweet sticky rice, fresh mangoes and a salted coconut sauce that you can pour over everything.

We have tried numerous variations all over, but the qualities that we believe determine a solid mango sticky rice dessert is the consistency of the coconut sauce and the freshness of the mango—which the good folks here nail down beautifully.

OH MY MANGO Dessert Bar
762 Jurong West Street 75
#01-334 Gek Poh Shopping Centre
Singapore 3640762
Tel: +65 9066 0426
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Boon Lay

For more recommendations, read our guide to the best cafes in the West of Singapore.

Taking luxury serviced apartments to a whole new level, the new Oakwood Premier OUE Singapore is strategically located in Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD) and housed within the exciting mixed-use development OUE Downtown.

As an exclusive serviced residence tailored with all the luxuries of a hotel, this is the ideal accommodation for both international business and leisure travellers who are intending to stay in Singapore for a week or more. The 5-star serviced apartment offers luxe modern living in the heart of the vibrant CBD, complete with a range of premium facilities and amenities and a full-fledged restaurant!

Choose to stay in one of the 268 units of studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartments; dine in the full-fledged in-house restaurant—Se7enth with sophisticated meals curated by an expert culinary team; take a dip in the outdoor infinity pool; chill at The Bar at Oakwood and host business meetings in the fully equipped Executive Boardroom with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Raising the bar for serviced apartments in the city, Oakwood Premier OUE Singapore epitomises luxe modern living in the CBD.

STUDIO APARTMENTS

Oakwood Premier OUE Singapore’s sleek and modern studio apartment is the perfect fit for couples and independent travellers who are in Singapore for mid to long-term stays.

Guests will feel right at home in this studio apartment as it is furnished with everything you need for a comfortable stay—a kitchenette with microwave, Bluetooth sound system and TV with multi-channel cable. The bathroom is fitted with a rain shower and essential bathroom amenities.

All apartments have a Samsung tablet and mobile phone with a specially curated Oakwood app that can handle all your in-room requests and more.

ONE-BEDROOM APARTMENTS

Traveling solo for a business trip? The one-bedroom apartment is a cosy abode where you can escape from the hectic CBD area and unwind from a day of hard work.

It comes with a fully-equipped kitchen, 2-in-1 washer and dryer and other amenities similar to the studio apartment.

TWO-BEDROOM APARTMENTS

The two-bedroom apartments have their own private dining areas comprising a fully-equipped Western kitchen and a dishwasher to make cleaning up hassle-free.

The addition of a stylish living room and two bedrooms, including a walk-in wardrobe, make it a very spacious place where you can host your guests. Those who are travelling with loved ones or in groups of four, this option is ideal.

OUTDOOR INFINITY POOL

Now we are finally at the fun part. Imagine coming home to a tranquil outdoor infinity lap pool and jacuzzi that overlooks the city. Grab a book and enjoy some reading on the plush cabanas and sun decks while sunbathing, too!

SE7ENTH—FULL-SERVICE RESTAURANT

Treat yourself to a comprehensive in-house dining experience at Se7enth—the city’s first full-fledged in-house restaurant in a serviced apartment helmed by Executive Chef Dickson Fung who has 13 years of experience working in prestigious 5-star hotels across three countries.

The restaurant is opened to the public and Se7enth’s contemporary setting makes it the choice destination for business meetings and lunch with your colleagues, or romantic dinner dates in the evenings. Indulge in weekday executive set lunches as well as a la carte dishes and 3-course set dinners.

Notable dishes on their menu include the succulent Wagyu Beef Burger with Pan-Fried Foie Gras, Rosemary-Flavoured Spring Chicken and Sirloin Beef Hor Fun.

THE BAR AT OAKWOOD

Looking to have a tipple? Let us share a little secret with you—Happy Hour at The Bar at Oakwood runs from 2pm to 7pm daily and you can get house pour beverages at S$9 each!

It is never too early to drink, you guys.

OTHER AWESOME FACILITIES

Guests of Oakwood Premier OUE Singapore can also look forward to using other facilities such as the Residents’ Lounge and The Fitness Center by Oakwood, a 24-hour gym that overlooks the outdoor infinity pool.

Over at The Oakwood Executive Club, this is where club members get high with exclusive privileges such as prosecco breakfast, free-flow evening cocktails and canapés, and complimentary use of the Executive Boardroom which comes with state-of-the-art amenities for professional business meetings.

But just give us the bubbles and cheese and we will be happy residents.

Oakwood Premier OUE Singapore
6 Shenton Way
Level 7, OUE Downtown 1
Singapore 068809
Tel: +65 6812 6000
Email: general.opsg@oakwoodasia.com
Web: www.OakwoodAsia.com/Singapore-CentralBusinessDistrict
Facebook: www.FB.com/OakwoodPremierOUESingapore
Instagram: www.instagram.com/oakwoodpremierouesingapore
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

This post is brought to you by Oakwood Premier OUE Singapore.

Christmas is one of the biggest events of the year and we know how much of a headache it can be to organise a get-together, be it a private dinner with your loved ones or corporate parties involving hundreds of guests.

When it comes to Christmas parties, one of the major components when it comes to planning is food—and it can make or break your party! Having to please everyone’s taste buds is not an easy task but yes, we are telling you that it is possible to have a fuss-free Christmas party without going through much hassle.

For Christmas this year, Orange Clove Catering is collaborating with Celebrity Chef Eric Low who is leading the festive theme buffet ‘A Christmas Full of Life’, with six exclusive creations that are bound to impress your guests. Who says that catered food has to be boring? We beg to differ!

FESTIVE MENUS HEADLINED BY CELEBRITY CHEF ERIC LOW

Established in 2008, Orange Clove Catering is a reputable brand in the F&B industry, serving mid to high-end gastronomical fares in aesthetically pleasing presentation styles.

For the first time ever, the catering company is collaborating with Celebrity Chef cum cookbook author Chef Eric Low who is well-known for his culinary talents. An experienced chef with over 28 years of experience under his belt, Chef Eric Low has won numerous accolades and is a certified culinary judge for international and national level culinary competitions.

Judging from his expertise, you can feel assured that your buffet spread is left in good hands under his guidance. There are four festive buffet menus designed under Chef Eric Low’s guidance—Spirit of Christmas (S$20/guest), Merrymakers of Yule (S$25/guest), Season of Gaiety (S$32/guest) and Joyous Revelry (S$42/guest).

The highlights of these four festive buffet menus are six exclusive dishes created by Chef Eric Low that focus not only on taste but also on using healthier cooking methods so your guests can stuff themselves silly without too much of that guilt from all the festive feasting.

Now, are you ready to find out what Chef Eric Low has to offer? You have to read on!

ROSEMARY & SMOKED PAPRIKA BAKED CHICKEN WITH DOUBLE MUSTARD CREAM SAUCE

Inspired by Spanish recipes, Chef Eric Low came up with his own marinade using flavourful ingredients such as rosemary, paprika, garlic bits, mustard, olive oil and more.

The chicken pieces are marinated overnight before they are placed in the oven so that the flavours are more pronounced and indeed, we could taste the harmonious blend of savoury and slightly spicy tones.

CHEF ERIC’S SPECIAL VIETNAMESE JACKFRUIT SALAD WITH POACHED PRAWNS

The idea for this dish was born out of a conversation Chef Eric Low had with his Vietnamese friends one day and it is a reflection of the classic Vietnamese diet that showcases light and balanced ingredients.

Be prepared to be greeted with a complexity of flavours from the prawns and coconut cream which is well-balanced with lettuce and jackfruit salad at the side.

COLD SALAD OF ROASTED PUMPKIN WITH WASABI CRABMEAT, TOASTED KERNELS, CORAL GREENS & YELLOW FRISSE

Always begin your meal with a bowl of cold salad because it piques your appetite without filling your tummy too much. Although this may look like any other cold salad dishes out there, the taste was unforgettable. The key ingredient? Wasabi mayo.

Imagine the fiery burst from the wasabi coupled with sweet pumpkin chunks, creamy crabmeat and crunchy kernel bits—that is definitely a wild party of flavours in your mouth!

TRILOGY OF BRUSSEL SPROUTS, YELLOW ZUCCHINI, CARROT WITH HOMEMADE THAI-INSPIRED PEANUT SAUCE

Before you think that there is nothing special about these vegetables, we would just like to stop you right there; Chef Eric Low’s homemade Thai-inspired peanut sauce is probably the best condiment we have tried at a festive buffet and it heightened the taste of this dish to perfection.

The secret to this wonderful red curry paste sauce is the addition of peanut butter as a natural thickener instead of gelatin. You have to try it to believe just how a simple sauce like that can transform the taste of vegetables.

LONG GRAIN SPANISH INSPIRED BAKED RICE WITH SAUSAGES & TRIO OF BELL PEPPERS

Basmati rice is valued for its high nutritional contents and for being low in calories. Sticking to his aim in providing wholesome eats that do not compromise on taste, Chef Eric Low created this dish with long grain Spanish baked rice that is mixed with Cajun spices.

Other ingredients you will find include sausages, blended nuts, smoked paprika, garlic and a few drops of lemon juice. Imagine a cross between the rich Indian biryani and aromatic Spanish paella—that is what you get with this fragrant baked rice.

CAJUN STYLE OVEN BAKED SNAPPER LOIN WITH ROMESCO SAUCE

There are so many items on the menu for you to pick from but if you are looking for a crowd-pleaser, the Cajun Style Oven Baked Snapper Loin with Romesco Sauce will do the trick.

The tender fish meat was doused with generous portions of Romesco sauce and it was the full-flavoured, tangy sauce that won our hearts. If you are looking for recommendations, we would suggest having the baked fish with Spanish baked rice—they are a match made in heaven.

FULL RANGE OF DESSERTS

And of course, the desserts. These sweet treats make up an important aspect of a Christmas party—or any party as a matter of fact—so you should spend some time browsing through the options Orange Clove Catering has.

Some of these delights include Assorted Choux Pastries, Deluxe Fresh Fruits Platter and an unbeatable array of cupcakes, tarts and cakes.

A Christmas Full of Life Festive Buffet Menus
Spirit of Christmas (S$20/guest)
Merrymakers of Yule (S$25/guest)
Season of Gaiety (S$32/guest)
Joyous Revelry (S$42/guest)

Orange Clove Catering
1 Kaki Bukit Road 1
#05-03/04, Enterprise One
Singapore 415934
Tel; +65 6515 0991
Nearest Station: Ubi
Website: www.orangeclove.com.sg

This post is brought to you by Orange Clove Catering.

The Midtown over at Upper Serangoon Road is fast-becoming another foodie haven with the exponential setting up of new eateries within its premises—a godsend for nearby residents and office workers.

Otoko is one of the newest additions to this Hougang enclave. This humble Japanese eatery first started out as a stall in a coffee shop at Sultan Plaza offering quality and comforting Japanese Donburi at affordable prices.

The menu at their new branch at The Midtown features a wider spread of items, like tendon as well as a mix-and-match menu for their Japanese curry rice in which diners can choose to stack on more of their preferred items. Otoko may not rank as high up as the greats but considering the affordability and the quality of the food they serve, this makes it an ideal spot to get your fix.

As with most eateries located at The Midtown, the kitchen and order counter is situated on the ground floor, while the dine-in area is upstairs.

The menu is pretty straightforward. On the left is essentially the customisable Japanese curry rice, along with all the many goodies you can add to pimp it up and on the right are the various donburi, sides and specials.

Otoko’s Classic Tendon (S$10.80) comes preloaded with the usual battered suspects of your average tendon bowl—prawn, fish and an assortment of vegetables.

The tempura pieces do come rather crisp, although the prawn was slightly lacking in crunch. The rice was actually rather ordinary but the addition of the crispy tempura bits, along with the lightly sweetened sauce drizzled over top made it heaps better.

To be honest, the tendon here is forgettable, but considering that it is just a fraction of the price of those at other places, we would say that this is still a pretty decent option.

The Japanese Curry menu begins with you choosing whether you would like to have it with rice (S$2.80) or udon (S$3.80) and after which you can proceed to pick and choose your ingredients. We went with the usual pork cutlet (S$2.80), potato salad in bacon wrap (S$1.80) and for good measure, a fried egg (S$1.80).

Otoko’s recommendation is to pick three toppings with a base. But if you pick just one topping (S$1.80), the Japanese curry rice can be as cheap as only S$4.60.

Taste-wise we were really impressed. The luscious curry was sweet and savoury with a subtle hint of spice. The pork cutlet was outrageously crispy and slathered with the delicious curry, made it such a joy to eat. The potato salad in bacon wrap had a smooth, velvety, mashed potato-like texture and the bacon gave it a more robust and smoky quality.

Otoko
1187 Upper Serangoon Road
#01-20 The Midtown
Singapore 534785
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hougang

Great news for coffee aficionados, the famous Omotesando Koffee from Tokyo has officially opened in Singapore. Those of you hankering after a cuppa from this highly acclaimed Japanese import can now get their caffeine fix at the shop’s debut Singapore outlet at Downtown Gallery.

We first reported the news of the opening of Omotesando Koffee back in April 2017 and boy are we glad that it is finally in Singapore.

For those of you who are new to the brand, what you can look forward to at this artisanal coffee bar is their high-quality espresso-based beverages. Their first and only outlet in Singapore features a myriad of caffeinated beverages from matcha based drinks to a good old latte so whether you have a burning passion for artisanal brews or not, Omotesando Koffee is a spot worth checking out.

Hailing from Shibuya in Tokyo, the cafe first opened up as a quaint pop-up store in a traditional Japanese house in Omotesando’s residential area in 2011. Word spread quickly as this little takeaway coffee stop quickly gained a strong following among hipsters for its artisanal brews—unfortunately, in 2015, the Japanese house (machiya) got torn down and along with Omotesando Koffee.

Earlier this year, the acclaimed coffee shop reopened in Shibuya and has since expanded to other parts of Japan, Hong Kong and now in Singapore!

The brand’s opening here is a partnership between Hong Kong-born Russell Stradmoor, 28, director and franchising owner of Omotesando Koffee, and Mr Junny Lee, 34, founder of The Work Project—a Singapore-based co-working space operator with a branch in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.

When it comes to their coffee beans, the way that it is treated can greatly enhance (or compromise) the flavour of your brew. In fact, it’s the brewing methods that tend to be the hallmark of a great artisan coffee.

Here at Omotesando Koffee, their methodology lies in two things: its signature cube-framed bar which houses their baristas and their precise approach to brewing coffee. Beans from Melbourne are roasted in Kyoto by the Ogawa Coffee Roasters, with each blend following specific steps for brewing to bring out the best flavours.

Their espresso is hand-dripped slowly at a controlled temperature to ensure that all the oils and essences from the beans are absorbed to the best of its ability. The end result is a full-bodied cup of coffee that is sure to make anyone’s day.

Their Cafe Latte Doppio (S$5.50) is brewed with their very own house brand of coffee beans. The initial sip is fairly balanced but after a few seconds what you are left with is a subtle fruity note that pleasantly coats your entire mouth. There is mild acidity to it, but the milk really helps to balance it out.

All in all, a delicate brew that makes for a good start to a typical workday.

The Iced Cappuccino (S$7.50) is much more unique than your typical cafe brew. The milk itself is blended beforehand to aerate it. After it is served, give it a few seconds and watch as the surface starts to bubble and foam up. The beverage itself was light and airy, making it easy to drink even for non-coffee experts.

With Omotesando Koffee now open in Downtown Gallery, coffee drinkers will soon have a new go-to cafe for their caffeine fix, which is never bad news for our coffee-cultured society.

Omotesando Koffee Singapore
6 Shenton Way, #04-09
The Work Project Downtown,
Downtown Gallery
Singapore 068809
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

One Ounce For Onion at Ekkamai district in Bangkok needs no further introduction but did you know that this hipster cafe has opened another branch at the popular ChangChui this year?

You can expect nothing less from the creative minds behind this concept cafe who converted an old warehouse container into a rustic-looking cafe adorned with glittering chandeliers, dark wooden furniture and a bookshelf filled with books of many genres.

Head over to One Ounce For Onion for their handcrafted house brews and delightful range of light bites.

Their straightforward menu offers little besides their signature espresso based drinks, smoothies and ChangChui specials (food and drinks that are exclusive to this outlet).

It is not the place to go to if you are looking for a wide range of mains on the menu but somewhere to chill and catch up with your friends over coffee.

Their Iced Latte (THB100/S$4.12) is prepared with the right balance of espresso and creamy milk. The refreshing drink came with a slightly bitter aftertaste just the way we like it.

If you are looking for a drink to cool off from Bangkok’s sweltering heat, you cannot go wrong with an Iced Latte at One Ounce For Onion.

Not keen on having coffee? There are other non-caffeine choices too. After getting to know our preferences, the friendly barista recommended a smoothie with a whimsical name—Summer Is Getting Better (THB140/S$5.76).

The ingredients found inside include pineapple, pumpkin, ginger and green basil. It sounds like an odd combination but we were pleasantly surprised that the flavours actually went well together. The rich pineapple drink came with distinct hints of ginger that was not too overpowering for our liking.

Feeling peckish, we decided to order it’s sound jap crab (THB220/S$9.05) which is a small portion crab meat salad with green apple, avocado, miso herbs and spicy mentaiko. While we think that it is rather pricey for such a small plate, the intense flavours got us hooked onto the dish.

Have the crab meat and avocado together with toasted bread given at the side. It was so delicious that we finished it within minutes!

Alternatively, you can also get the Bollywood Baller (THB280/S$11.52), Pasta Thai Garlic Bacon (THB180/S$7.40) and Porkball Gnocchi (THB180/S$7.40).

One Ounce at ChangChui
460/8 Sirindhorn Road
Bangpld, Bangkok
10700 Thailand
Tel: +66 2 050 5533
Nearest BTS: Victory Monument

Read: 7 Reasons Why You Must Visit ChangChui Night Market In Bangkok.

Photo Credit: Original Cake Website

Unless you have been living under a rock, you would have heard of Castella cakes by now as the bouncy Japanese sponge cake is currently the latest food trend that has exploded on social media.

It seems that the ongoing Castella cake fad has brought yet another brand to Singapore shores and it is none other than the famous Original Cake from Taiwan—the first cake store in Tamsui Old Street which specialises in Castella cakes.

The bakery is so successful among their loyal customers that it currently has four stores in Taiwan and six outlets in Malaysia.

Great news for all west siders! Original Cake will be opening its first outlet in Westgate. This is the second Castella cake shop located in the west of Singapore, after the launch of Ah Mah Homemade Cake in Bukit Panjang Plaza.

Photo Credit: Original Cake Facebook

Original Cake is known for serving fresh, out-of-the-oven Castella cakes that are made upon order to keep up with the highest standards for their customers.

Photo Credit: Original Cake Website

Besides the Original and Cheese flavours, we are hoping that Original Cake will also be offering other signature favourites from Taiwan such as Spurted Chocolate, Banana Milk, Cranberry, Almond and Nuts and Healthy Dried Longan.

Gear up for the queue that is probably going to form outside their first outlet in Westgate when they are ready for business. Original Cake has yet to announce its official opening date, so keep your eyes peeled for it.

In the meantime, those who are not willing to wait can always head over to Le Castella, Antoinette or Ah Mah Homemade Cake which might have a shorter queue after the opening of Original Cake in Singapore.

Original Cake
3 Gateway Dr
#02-24 Westgate
Singapore 608532
Nearest Station: Jurong East

Curious to find out which Castella cake is the best in Singapore? Read our taste test review to find out.

Opus Bar & Grill is an intimate and modern grill restaurant which also happens to serve some of the best steaks in Singapore. Located on the ground floor of Hilton Singapore, the restaurant’s secret recipe in divine meat lies in its specially commissioned Himalayan salt tile dry-aging cabinet, charcoal grill, and the usage of only excellent prime cuts and high-quality ingredients.

Executive Chef Vijay and his culinary team mean business when it comes to meat. From the way that each individual cut is treated—from the aging process right down to the actual cooking—we know that we can always depend on them for a quality steak feast every time!

We went down recently to sample the new menu and we can’t wait to share our dining experiences with you! With any order of Opus steak, enjoy 2-hour free-flow red, white and sparkling wines from 7pm to 9pm (Sundays to Thursdays) and 50% off on selected wine by the bottle (Frdays & Saturdays).

Quote “LIC80OPUS” upon making reservations to enjoy 1 complimentary signature dessert (limited for the first 80 bookings). You have the option of either the Charcoal Grilled Banana or the Grilled Honey Pineapple Dessert.

The fact that Opus Bar & Grill is situated in a 5-star hotel like Hilton Singapore may seem rather daunting to most, but contrary to what you may think, prices for premium steaks here are actually incredibly affordable!

Considering that the most affordable option of steak begins at only S$58++, that amount coupled with the unlimited amount of wines is a great deal in itself.

We began our epic meat feast with the 1.2kg Black Angus Porterhouse Steak (S$128++). A sizeable beauty like this can easily be shared among 2 to 3 diners. The steak is carefully grilled upon an open-flame charcoal grill for an ideal flame-licked crust.

For the uninitiated, a porterhouse steak is a great steak to get if you want a double whammy of both tenderness and true beefy flavour. A porterhouse steak (or T-bone steak) consists of a bone shaped like a letter ‘T’ that divides two different cuts: the strip and the tenderloin.

The strip generally has a better marbling which gives you more beefy flavours once cooked. The tenderloin, on the other hand, as its name suggests, is incredibly tender and cuts almost as easily as butter.

The steaks at Opus Bar & Grill begin with 18 to 36 days of dry-aging in a one-of-a-kind Himalayan salt-tiled cabinet. The in-house curation makes a tasteful difference in flavour and juiciness of the steak that true steak lovers will surely be able to appreciate.

On top of that, you can choose from a selection of flavoured salts, sauces and delectable side orders to go with the steak, although honestly, the grilled-to-perfection steak is more than capable to hold its own.

The flavoured salts include paprika, lava, and rosemary. The paprika was a hot favourite as it provided a heightened intensity of smoke which complemented the grilled porterhouse really well. The sauces include green peppercorn, bone marrow with red wine sauce, and a decadent béarnaise sauce.

And then, there is a new pork dish on the menu too.

With most grilled pork dishes, many would assume the end product to be dry and bland. But contrary to the popular notion, we were truly astounded by how the chefs here managed to nail it just right. The 300g DeRaza Ibérico Pork Rack (S$35++) was as moist and succulent as it was flavourful.

The pork was incredibly tender and it went exceptionally well with the béarnaise sauce. To create a flavour explosion in one mouthful, try having it with a small pinch of the paprika salt along with a generous dollop of the béarnaise sauce.

The 300g Australian Rack of Lamb (S$38++) was cooked to just the right doneness. The strip of fat that lines the top of the rack was rendered out completely, making it so irresistibly crispy and delicious; this is something that will drive lamb lovers crazy.

The inside was pink and juicy, retaining the subtle gaminess of lamb. That, coupled with the charred exterior made for a very intense flavour explosion. We recommend having this with the rosemary salt as the herb really lifts the flavour of the lamb tenfold.

The variety of sides to complement your steak dinner at Opus Bar & Grill is stunning. We had the truffle fries, grilled green asparagus, a salad consisting of fresh arugula, vine tomatoes and shaved parmesan and a smoked risotto with leek and pecorino.

All sides are affordably priced at only S$6++. It is also good to note that the aforementioned items are all gluten-free!

Every item tasted great but the one side that stood out the most was the truffle fries. Thick cuts of potato are deep fried till beautifully golden and crunchy and drizzled over with copious amounts of truffle oil—the perfect pairing to any good steak.

An epic meal like that would not be complete without great desserts. At Opus Bar & Grill, we highly recommend the house special Charcoal Grilled Banana served with smoked caramel and a coconut-calamansi flavoured ice-cream (S$12++) and the Grilled Honey Pineapple (S$12++).

At Opus Bar & Grill where mostly every item is grilled, you can expect no different when it comes to their desserts.

The grilled banana was beautifully grilled giving it a nice sheen and a stunning aroma. The grilled banana comes with a scoop of coconut and calamansi flavoured ice-cream. The sharp acidity of the ice-cream did well to cut through the bittersweet caramel flavour of the grilled banana making this a perfect dessert to wrap up such an epic meal.

This gorgeous pineapple treat is grilled and the exterior achieves just the right amount of caramelization, but still has its juice fully retained. The dessert is then garnished with delicious crumbles and a rum sauce.

Overall, the captivating ambiance and affordability make Opus Bar & Grill perfect for virtually any occasion—be it an anniversary dinner, family reunion or company’s celebratory dinner. A private dining room that can accommodate up to 20 seated guests is available too.

Our readers can quote “LIC80OPUS” to get a complimentary Charcoal Grilled Banana or Grilled Honey Pineapple worth S$12++ respectively with a minimum spend of S$80 in a nett bill.

We need not explain how easy that is, right? This amazing offer is limited to one redemption per table and is limited to the first 80 redemptions per night.

What are you waiting for? We will see you at Opus Bar & Grill because we are definitely returning for more good meats.

Opus Bar & Grill
www.singapore.hilton.com/opus
Hilton Singapore
581 Orchard Road, Lobby Level
Tel: +65 6730 3390
Daily: 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard Road

This post is brought to you by Hilton Singapore.