NUDE Grill is our favourite pet-friendly restaurant in Singapore. It ticks all the boxes for us: a comfortable environment for the furkids to roam with water bowls provided for them, relaxing ambience and real, good food for humans, and it is sheltered!

The problem with most pet-friendly restaurants/ cafes in Singapore is that the food for humans is always shitty, and sometimes there is no shelter so there are no bad weather contingencies if it rains.

And all these make NUDE Grill even more ideal when you want a good meal at a nice seafood restaurant in Singapore but can’t bear to leave your furkid alone at home. They do not have a menu for pets but hey, that’s a small issue.

The centralized location makes it accessible to everyone. Conveniently sitting within Marina One, the popular seafood restaurant sits on the first level of the office-cum-residences building and has a big, airy space for you to walk your furkids.

NUDE Grill is able to serve quality seafood at reasonable prices as their family business is Hai Sia Seafood, a 3rd generation seafood wholesaler.

On their menu, expect honest good food from all-day brunch items to fresh seafood and Binchotan-grilled meats.

The ‘Bouillabaisse’ Seafood Stew (S$25.60) is our all-time favourite. A bowl of tiger prawns, seasonal fish, clams and cuttlefish simmered with watercress and potato, this hearty bowl of goodness is comforting as much as it is flavourful.

We also like the Grassfed NZ Wagyu ‘Bavette’ Steak (S$27.50). A slab of smoky steak prepared in your preferred doneness is served with a side of sweet corn (so good!) and scrambled eggs – simple and very filling. Oh, we sometimes cheat by letting our furkid have a piece of steak.

Some other popular items on the menu include the NUDE Breakfast (S$27.50), Fish & Chips (S$19.90), Fisherman’s Linguine (S$26.8) and Miso Halibut with Udon (S$22.9). They’ve got got a pretty comprehensive drinks menu, with reasonably-priced wines.

NUDE Grill
5 Straits View, #01-22 Marina One, Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 8726 1576

We are always up for a good steak deal. Who isn’t? Good steaks don’t always come cheap, and if we can snag a great deal, we’d be happy like a lark.

There are many steak restaurants in Singapore, and while the price tags are pretty hefty for some, we’ve rounded up some great deals for you.

Here are 10 steak deals in Singapore—including 1-for-1 lunch sets and cash vouchers up to 45% off. Time to get out of the house for a nice meal, y’all!

CHOPEDEALS BIRTHDAY FLASH SALE (24 SEP 2020)

ChopeDeals’ annual Birthday Flash Sale is back on 24 Sep 2020. For the uninitiated, ChopeDeals is Chope’s e-commerce initiative which allows diners to enjoy exceptional savings at over 800 top restaurants in Singapore.

You can expect over 250 exclusive and massively-discounted deals—ranging from S$9.90 and S$19.90 set menus, 1-for-1s, and up to 66% off cash vouchers. There will also be flash deals as low as S$0.90 at 12pm, 6pm and 9pm.

Score extra discounts when you pay with DBS PayLah!

• S$9 off (min spend of S$99 required) with code < BDAY9 >. Limited to one-time use and for the first 300 redemptions.
• S$5 off (min spend S$80 required) with code <BDAY5>. Limited to one-time use and for the first 3000 redemptions.

It’s a new year, and you’re trying to stick to your New Year resolution of eating clean. Sure, many of us are working on reducing our meat intake, but even for the most moderate of meat-eaters, there comes a time when we are overcome by an insatiable gnawing need to get our hands on a thick, juicy slab of steak. It’s one of life’s simplest pleasures, and one that many of us are unable (and unwilling) to give up.

However, dining at steakhouses can be an expensive affair, with limited portion sizes, substandard preparation, and unappetising steak cuts further compounding existing reluctance to placate said whims. Thankfully, there are still places in Singapore that serve good quality steaks without costing you an arm and a leg. You just need to know where to find them.

To alleviate that quandary, here is a list of 20 places to get affordable steaks for under S$30. Whether you’re looking for budget bulking options, or just want to luxuriate in some bargain steak binging, these places are bound to raise the steaks on a modern steakhouse experience!

Photo Credit: http://www.astons.com.sg/partners/bizen/

BIZEN OKAYAMA WAGYU STEAKHOUSE

Budget wagyu steaks? No, your eyes are not deceiving you; at BIZEN you’ll be able to enjoy Okayama wagyu cuts from the affordable price of S$18.90++, with all choices of Adventure Cuts available for under S$30++!

A brand concept from the Aston’s Group specialising in steaks, BIZEN’s ability to offer wagyu steaks at that low a price point stems from its exclusive partnership with Okayama cattle farmers. As cuts are limited, check which ones are available on their Facebook page before heading down to avoid disappointment.

107 North Bridge Road
Funan, #B2-22
Singapore 179105
Tel: +65 6970 0481
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/braseiro.sg/

BRASEIRO RESTAURANT

There’s a reason why this casual French steakhouse has been a recipient of TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence in both 2018 and 2019, and is constantly rated as one of the best steakhouses locally.

Redefining what affordable and palatable steaks mean, unlike in other establishments where you have to carefully scrutinise the myriad of cuts to determine which is of most value, Braseiro keeps things simple by having a set price of S$19.90++ for all its steaks. Even if you find the standard 200g cut too slight a portion, even their size L (S$24.90++) and XL portions (S$29.90++) are still within budget!

333 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427588
Tel: +65 9116 3304
Mon to Thu: 6pm – 11pm
Fri to Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/buddyhoagiesdj/

BUDDY HOAGIES

Western and steak restaurants come and go, many edged out by stiff competition or squeezed by burgeoning overhead costs. Buddy Hoagies, on the other hand, has been around since 2004, surviving through the decades with the support of its regulars who appreciate its honest fare and modest prices.

To get an idea for how good a value you’re getting, from just S$13.90++, you can enjoy a cut of chilled New Zealand steak with your choice of two sides (get the onion rings – they are fried to a sweet, crispy goodness). Be warned, the lunch hour crowd is unforgiving, so go early or be prepared to wait!

5 Ang Mo Kio Central 2
Djisun Mall, #01-08/09
Singapore 569663
Tel: +65 6752 8722
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Yio Chu Kang
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: http://chargrillbar.com.sg/

CHAR-GRILL BAR

Proving that you do not need to go to a proper restaurant to get your protein fix, Char-Grill Bar’s longevity and multiple branches islandwide are testaments to how the population appreciates its immense fare (it has over 50 items!), fuss-free experience, and general affordability.

From as low as S$11.80, you can partake in a regular steak option with your choice of two of the eleven sides available. If one meagre slab of steak isn’t sufficient, why not top up to S$16.80 for a mixed grill option to really satisfy that meat craving instead?

25A Lorang Liput
Singapore 277735
Tel: +65 6463 4908
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30am
Nearest Station: Holland Village
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

COLLIN’S GRILL

A common choice for those looking for a mid-tier yet casual environment to dine with their friends and family at, Collin’s has captured this wanting crowd with its generous offerings made even more attractive by multiple ongoing promotions.

To substantiate your meal, why not get a Black Angus Steak cut starting from S$16++? For more customisability, head over to Collin’s Common Grill outlets where you can pick your protein of choice before mixing and matching it with your preferred carbs, sides, and sauces. And no, you don’t have to pay above their usual grill menu prices for this added convenience!

Block 51 Havelock Road
#01-06
Singapore 161051
Tel: +65 9739 1341
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/patsytan19/

GRILL WERKZ

One of the more renowned hawker centre grill houses, Grill Werkz has over 20 outlets islandwide that touts its enormous menu of quintessential American grill items. Perfect for meat lovers, all its budget-friendly steaks New Zealand cuts are available for under S$20.

If you’re looking for other types of protein besides beef, Grill Werkz is also famous for their Combo Mixed Grill (S$15.80) which comes with six different protein items, your choice of sides, wedges, and a sunny side up egg. For bigger tables who want a feast for both stomachs and eyes, subsist on the Ultimate Sharing Platter (S$16.80) instead.

28A Dover Crescent
7 Stars Coffeeshop, #01-92
Singapore 130028
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Dover / One-North
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.hottomato.com.sg/

HOT TOMATO CAFÉ & GRILL

At Hot Tomato, you won’t be facing any vegetarian fare. It’s all hearty meat on fire action here, with a bonus of all their steaks being grass-fed beef cuts (from S$15.20++). What this entails is a more natural diet that reduces exposure to chemicals and toxins so that you can relish in your steak with a peace of mind.

If you visit their Funan outlet instead, you’ll be met with a menu that offers a special twist on the traditional surf and turf option: steak and sushi! For S$21.90++, you can revel in the robust flavours of the steak cut alongside refreshing pops of seafood from the chirashi for a unique taste experience unlike any other.

23 Serangoon Central
NEX Serangoon, #B1-47
Singapore 556083
Tel: +65 6753 4300
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest MRT: Serangoon
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/isteaksdiner/

ISTEAKS DINER

A brand synonymous with affordable steakhouse-quality cuts, iSTEAKS Diner has been gradually refining its menu to mimic the offerings of its more up-scale counterparts. While their prices have crept up over the years, this is partially offset by the consistent quality and sheer variety of cuts of beef available.

Identifiable by persistent snaking lines of eager diners during meal times, S$30 can get you any standard cut with your pick of two sides from their hefty list of twenty. To fully maximise your experience, bring along three of your best food buds to share the massive 1.2kg Wagyu D-Rump for just S$28.75++/pax!

Tampines Central 1
Tampines 1, #04-04/05
Singapore 529536
Tel: +65 6285 8839
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/meatnchill/

MEAT N’ CHILL

In line with its namesake, you can find this eatery packed to the brim with the bustling energy of friends and families alike especially during the weekends, big smiles and hurried chatter all-around within the bright and vibrant space.

What keeps this otherwise non-descript establishment busy is simple: considerable portions, amicable service, all served with an undertone of playfulness. When you next get their Flame-Grilled Steaks (250g) (from S$19++), skip the traditional sauces and turn up the fire with their Yolo Sauce. The team in the kitchen loves a challenge, and they appreciate customers who do so too.

805 Bukit Timah Road
6th Avenue Centre, #01-04
Singapore 279883
Tel: +65 8812 4455
Tue to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Sixth Avenue

Photo Credit: https://www.mediumrare.sg/

MEDIUMRARE BY SAVEUR

Easties might have seen MediumRare by the Saveur Group, drawn by its constant aroma of fresh grills and the modern chic space it offers. With multiple tables, even amidst the notorious Tampines lunch crowd, finding a seat will not require too extended a wait time.

With a good mix of economical (S$18++ and up) and premium cuts – their tenderloin is available for S$28++ – there is a suitable, scrumptious steak for all your dining needs at MediumRare.

Moreover, there is a Lunch Set promotion available between 12pm to 3pm daily where you can order your desired main – steak options include the ribeye (200g), striploin (200g) and flat iron (250g) – with a soup and drink for just S$16++!

2 Tampines Central 4
Century Square, #01-35
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 6789 1121
Daily: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/M4MEAST/

MEET 4 MEAT

Want Wooloomooloo quality of steak without paying the prices? Now you can do precisely that at Meet 4 Meat, the brainchild of Chef Jimmy, who used to work at Wooloomooloo, and was the old Head Chef of Rabbit Carrot Guns.

Believing that gourmet food and accessibility need not be mutually exclusive, Chef Jimmy leverages on his twenty-plus years of experience to provide premium free-range and grass-fed beef cuts at prices a significant margin below his former workplaces. Must-tries include their famed Beef Wellington (S$27) and a generous cut of ribeye (S$23) for under S$30.

228 East Coast Road
Singapore 428925
Tel: +65 8290 3605 / 9877 6264
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 3.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/steakout.sg/

STEAKOUT

No need to steakout for a good steakhouse, we’ve got you covered! Want chilled Australian and New Zealand cuts for solidly under S$30? Tired of GST and service charge tipping your choice cuts beyond budget? Steakout promises all the above with a side of your alcohol of choice.

You know a place is dedicated to its role as a steakhouse when its core offering is a ribeye cut (S$21.90 to S$36.90), and its S$29.90 Love-Me Tenderloin (200g) is a close second. If you want to stretch that dollar just a little, you can even get a full 400g Porterhouse for just S$31.90; what a steal!

89 Victoria Street
Singapore 188017
Tel: +65 6720 8103
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bras Basah

STEAKVILLE

Many times when we are looking for more economical food options, we forgo quality and freshness by settling for a mechanised supply chain that bypasses the authenticity and assurance that smaller farms provide. At Steakville, not only do you get a farm to table experience, you get to have it without breaking your bank.

The signature Hangar Steak here is priced at a fair S$20++, with all other cuts sans wagyu available for under S$30++. For something more opulent, why not add on sides like Raclette Cheese (S$8++) or a slice of Foie Gras (S$9++) to complete your meal?

91 Bencoolen Street
Sunshine Plaza, #01-56
Singapore 189652
Tel: +65 9233 5142
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Bencoolen

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/StirlingSteaks

STIRLING STEAKS

Stirling Steaks has been a mainstay for steak hunters in the East, popular for its traditional charcoal grilling technique that imparts a bold, smoky aftertaste reminiscent of more extravagant establishments.

While its cuts tend to be on the pricier side, there is a way to enjoy the unadulterated quality of Stirling’s steaks within budget – their value meal. At S$9.90++ you can get either a Flat Iron Steak or Hangar Steak (both 150g) with an addition of fries for S$1.50++. If the cuts are too scant a portion for you, doubling up only sets you back S$19.80++!

115 East Coast Road
Singapore 428804
Tel: +65 6958 0000 / 9788 2593
Mon to Wed: 6pm – 10pm
Thu to Sun: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

THE ARMOURY CRAFT BEER BAR & STEAK HOUSE

Fans of burgers would be familiar with The Armoury, renowned for its juicy, thick-set wagyu beef patties grilled to mouth-watering perfection. But did you know that their steaks are just as, if not more delectable?

Transferring that grill expertise to full steak cuts, patrons looking can look forward to wagyu options from S$20++ and up. If having one slice isn’t sufficient, gather your pals and try their Steak Buffet (S$30++/pax) instead. Available only during weekends and public holidays, get your week’s fill of protein by wallowing in all the steaks you can eat during the 90-minute duration!

36 Beach Road
#01-01
Singapore 189766
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 11pm
Fri: 11.30am – 1am
Sat: 11.30am – 12am
Sun: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thecarvingboardsg/

THE CARVING BOARD GRILL

A recent trend in Singapore’s food scene has been the blurring of lines between hawker food and traditional restaurants and eateries. Born out of this convergence is the brand, The Carving Board, a grill specialist operating out of a coffeeshop under an unremarkable HDB block.

Despite the higher price point, customers who frequent the establishment do so because they appreciate the hand-smoked flavour and grain-fed cuts. For example, a 100-days grain-fed Angus ribeye will only set you back S$26 unlike the over S$50 range of full-fledge restaurants.

Jurong Street 24
Block 252, #01-107
Singapore 600252
Tel: +65 9789 8262
Tue to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri: 12pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 3pm – 10.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Chinese Garden

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thefeatherblade/

THE FEATHER BLADE

As per its moniker, The Feather Blade specialises in a specific undercut, the feather blade cut. Found on the shoulder blade of a cow, this cut derives its name from the nerve that runs through its centre, bisecting it like a feather. Although flat, this cut tends to offer an especially tender and sweet profile.

With The Feather Blade Steak (S$21++) being the only enduring menu item, it is the natural signature dish. Although sauces, sides and toppings are all part of the á la carte menu, the cut alone is delightfully smooth and pleasantly rich courtesy of its browned butter glaze.

61 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088482

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TMH18chefs/

THE MEATHÖUSE BY 18CHEFS

More than just a steakhouse, The MeatHöuse offers hope for ex-convict to get a new lease of life through picking up a scalable life skill. Helmed by the 18Chefs Group, since 2007, Chef Benny has been helping ex-offenders reintegrate back into society while offering toothsome food that’s a cut above the competition.

Catering to all strata of society, whether you’re looking to treat yourself at the end of the week – the Salisbury Steak starts at S$16++ – or celebrating a more momentous occasion – their gargantuan 550g T-Bone is set at S$52++ –  dining here means you’re supporting more than just tasty food; you’re giving the green light to those looking for a second chance too.

2 Tampines Central 5
Century Square, #05-04
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 6260 1752
Sun to Thu: 11am – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TheRoyalsSteakhouse/

THE ROYALS STEAKHOUSE

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because The ROYALS Steakhouse is part of Halal-friendly The ROYALS brand umbrella. Despite being overshadowed by the popularity of its café, the steakhouse has been carving out a name for itself, receiving nothing short of rave reviews by regulars and newcomers alike.

While most of their steaks err on the premium end, their set lunch offers a chance to sample their celebrated protein fare within budget. For S$22++, you can savour their Ribeye Steak (160g to 180g) alongside either a soup or salad starter and your preferred side. A fair price when considering the standard they’re upholding!

10 Jalan Pisang
Singapore 199077
Tel: +65 6291 3326
Mon, Wed & Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 12pm – 11pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Bugis

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@100425

UNO BEEF HOUSE

Do uno about this neighbourhood steakhouse that has been quietly serving sizzling steaks for multiple decades? One of the last bastions of old-school Western cuisine specialists that plate up genuine fare, Uno ensures each plate is made fresh to order,  and comes with a piping hot, tender, and moist steak comparable to its more up-market counterparts.

While pricey for hawker fare, regulars continue to stand by their stalwart favourites of Black Pepper Sirloin Steak (S$13) and Tenderloin – available for only S$18! – over the years. A friendly tip: as all cuts are served on hot plates, order a step under your preferred doneness to have the steak just right when it finally arrives.

51 Lorang 5 Toa Payoh
#01-60
Singapore 310051
Tel: +65 9003 3832
Tue to Sun: 11.30am – 10.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Toa Payoh
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Few things come close to the sheer majesty that sinking one’s teeth into a quality steak entails; the flavour of buttery beefiness oozing all over the tongue, enveloped by a smoky flavour and brought to life with speckles of sea salt. Cooked perfectly, be it roasted and finished under a broiler, grilled or even sous vide, a properly cooked steak can be life-changing. Period.

A good steak will always reign supreme among the food-obsessed and is almost always money well spent. Whether you’re looking to spend lavishly, indulging in the crème de la crème of beefy divinity or simply a more economically-friendly alternative just to curb your cravings, here is our list of 11 places in Singapore to get a very, very good steak.

AKIRA BACK

Located in the heart of the designer hotel, JW Marriott Singapore South Beach, this glitzy outfit by award-winning chef Akira Back features innovative dishes centred around modern Japanese cuisine with a touch Korean influences. We are huge fans of their Charcoal-Grilled Ribeye, a 350-day grain fed Wagyu behemoth that packs insane amounts of flavour.

30 Beach Road
JW Marriott Singapore South Beach
Singapore 189763
Tel: +65 6818 1914
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade/ Raffles City

BEDROCK BAR & GRILL

This modern steakhouse exudes a rustic, almost roughed up, vibe with its many granite and wooden elements, which is the sort of mood that’s befitting of their food. Their steak is simply out of this world, selected and prepared by a team of passionate individuals who pour their heart and soul into selecting only the best quality beef, dining here is always a memorable experience. Simply done, what you get is a perfectly cooked steak, seasoned appropriately and topped with a dollop of butter.

96 Somerset Road, #01-05
Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard,
Singapore 238163
Tel: +65 6238 0054
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

BISTECCA TUSCAN STEAKHOUSE

If you’ve never enjoyed a steak the way the Italians do, then you really need to head over to Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse. They’re famous for their Bistecca Alla Fiorentina — a thick cut, char-grilled T-bone steak that’s good for sharing among 2 or even 3 people. Prepared the traditional Tuscan way, their steaks are grilled over a wood-fire and at immensely high temperatures, producing a gloriously charred crust and tender, juicy meat.

26 Mohamed Sultan Road
Singapore 238970
Tel: +65 6735 6739
Mon: 6pm – 10pm
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Fort Canning

CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK

Opened by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, this modern steakhouse at Marina Bay Sands impresses with its swanky interiors and quality service. While the appetisers alone are enough to entice, we suggest saving room for the main affair—their steak. Whether you opt for their Filet Mignon or Ribeye, you’ll leave thoroughly satisfied with your mind completely blown.

2 Bayfront Avenue B1-71, Galleria Level
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
Singapore 018972
Tel: +65 6688 8517
Sun to Thu: 5.30pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 5.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bayfront

FAT COW

A place where terrific food, culinary finesse and Japanese hospitality culminate, Fat Cow is one restaurant that offers diners one of the best steaks in Singapore. While their omakase might be their strong point, they are most famous for their variety of premium quality Wagyu beef—hence the name. The marbling on their signature cuts is enough to swoon over but seared over a hot grill, they release a flavour complexity that’s rich, buttery and delicious.

Camden Medical Centre #01-01/02,
1 Orchard Boulevard,
Singapore 248649
Tel: +65 6735 0308
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

MORTON’S THE STEAK HOUSE

If you’re in a jacket and tie sort of mood, then Morton’s The Steak House is one to consider. Evoking the same archetypal atmosphere of a classic high-end steakhouse in New York, the restaurant beautifully encapsulates the classic, speakeasy-style of American fine dining. This steakhouse juggernaut in Mandarin Oriental is known for many things, but if steak is what you’re after, we’re confident that the wet-aged Prime Ribeye Steak and the colossal 48-ounce Porterhouse will do the trick.

5 Raffles Avenue, Fourth Storey
Mandarin Oriental,
Singapore 039797
Tel: +65 6339 3740
Mon to Sat: 5.30am – 11pm
Sun: 12pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Promenade

OPUS BAR & GRILL

It’s captivating ambience, coupled with its surprising affordability, makes Opus Bar & Grill perfect for virtually any occasion. These folks take grilling seriously and pride themselves on serving only top quality stuff from sustainable sources. In the mood to indulge? Then you should definitely opt for their 1kg Black Angus Porterhouse. Cooked over white-hot coals, the meat develops a beautifully caramelised and smoky flavour along with a buttery, beef goodness.

Hilton Singapore
581 Orchard Road, Lobby Level
Tel: +65 6730 3390
Daily: 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard Road

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

This posh, upscale outfit located in Marina Mandarin Hotel boasts an award-winning wine list and a repertoire of fine steaks. The restaurant prides themselves on their signature method of broiling and seasoning their steaks, a perfected art that ensures each cut of the USDA Prime beef arrives at the table, perfectly cooked and sizzling on a 500° plate.

Raffles Boulevard
Marina Mandarin Hotel
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 6336 9093
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

SHATOBURIAN

A clever play on the word ‘chateaubriand’—which is a prime tender cut of wagyu—Shatoburian is the most talked-about Japanese yakiniku restaurant in town now. Famed for their extensive menu of prized Hida wagyu cuts, this contemporary Japanese BBQ restaurant is a heaven for wagyu aficionados.

On the yakiniku menu, you can choose from thin-slice, normal-slice as well as steak cuts such as Ribeye and
Chateaubriand (S$150)—Shatoburian’s prized cut—which is 120g of the most tender and best cut of the tenderloin.

Shatoburian
390 Orchard Rd, #02 – 08, Singapore 238871
Tel: +65 6904 3308

THE FEATHER BLADE

Inspired by the famous London steakhouse Flat Iron where founder Sheen Jet Leong honed his skills, The Feather Blade specialises in their signature Feather Blade steak. But what makes The Feather Blade different from Flat Iron is its Asian-inspired sides and sauces.

61 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088482

WOLFGANG’S STEAKHOUSE

If the words, USDA Black Angus Beef, dry-aged and tender are among your top few trigger words then Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is a place you must visit. No doubt a splurge, what you do get is a top-quality steak that arrives at the table piping hot with a gorgeous caramelised crust. All their steaks are dry-aged in-house for about a month, allowing the meat to dry out and develop an even more intense beef flavour.

1 Nanson Road
InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay #02-01
Singapore 238909
Tel: +65 6887 5885
Daily: 11.30am – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

WOOLOOMOOLOO

When it comes to a proper, immaculate steakhouse experience, few keep it as real-deal as Wooloomooloo. From their elegant, woody decor and classic trimmings, right down to their variety of classic steak cuts, this restaurant is among the best places for a good, hearty steak. Begin with a dozen oysters on the half shell before taking on their signature Wooloomooloo Steak, a 12-ounce beast of a ribeye, wet-aged for 4 weeks and marinated with Cajun spice.

2 Stamford Road
Swissotel The Stamford, Level 3
Singapore 178882
Tel: +65 6338 0261
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 11.30pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

Our favourite Fresh Fruits Lab (FFL) is back at it again. They have opened a second cafe—Fresh Fruits Lab Z Edition—in Clementi just behind NUS.

The new outlet is nothing short of amazing. Just like their previous branch, they stick to the core of incorporating fruits into their menu as much as possible, being kid-friendly, and serving up absolutely delicious food at even more reasonable prices than before.

We already know what’s great at their first branch, so what is it about The Z Edition that makes it fantastic? A bouncy castle for kids during the weekends! And on top of that, there are some tweaks to the menu and here is everything we love.

From now until 30 Nov 2018, kids below 8 dine for free during weekends at Fresh Fruits Lab Z when you quote ‘ladyironchef’. Every order of a main course comes with a complimentary kid’s main (from the kids’ menu).

Calling all mommies: this is also the next brunch spot you must bring your kids to for a jolly good time!

BANGING APPETISERS

Just like before, FFL serves their signature cold-pressed juices in a small test tube for you to sample, and in an adorable beaker should you order the full-size ones (averagely S$5 per glass).

We ordered the Spam Fries (S$8) as well as the Golden Brown Chicken Wings (S$8)—both served with homemade sweet chilli sauce.

The chicken wings had a lovely crispy skin that readily soaked up sweet garlic taste of the chilli. It was well seasoned down to the bone, and juicy without being oily. The light batter coating the spam fries also had an interesting texture to it, that provided a pleasant contrast between it and the soft spam inside. Despite being deep fried, it wasn’t greasy at all.

VALUE-FOR-MONEY MAINS

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again. The Classic British Fish and Chips (S$12) is our all-time favourite main at FFL.

As plain and boring as it sounds, the portion size is massive, and the fish remains firm, flaky and delicately soft, encrusted by a thin layer of white ale batter. Their homemade tartar sauce boasts a slight spice to it that made the whole dish even more enjoyable. As if the generous serving is not filling enough, it comes with a side of fruit salad and truffle fries.

Another main to try is the FFL Baked Rice (S$9). The rice is cooked in buttermilk before being baked with a layer of mozzarella cheese, and it is pleasantly cheesy without being cloying or heavy. With bacon, chicken ham and mushrooms in it, kids are bound to love this dish of baked rice for sure!

The Grilled Pork Loin (S$15) is also a chef’s recommendation. Tender, thick and juicy, each morsel was a delight in itself to eat.

Served with mashed potatoes, eggplant pesto and green zucchini, the flavours intermingled with one another to highlight and emphasize the natural sweetness of the meat. It also comes along with pesto mayo sauce and apple chutney that helped to change up the flavour profile as we ate it.

Cafes are usually not known for their steaks, but FFL’s Angus Rib Eye (S$22) is definitely worth its price. It is a genuine 250gm of Angus ribeye that’s tender and soft, with the perfect amount of chew before easily sliding down your throat.

We loved how with every chew it released more of that beef flavour we all know and love, which melded well with their brown sauce that was slightly sweeter than the typical chargrill or mushroom sauce.

We also enjoyed their Cajun Chicken (S$10), which is really a simple yet comforting roasted cajun chicken served with grilled vegetables, sweet corn and mashed potatoes.

BITE-SIZED FUN FOR THE KIDS

Just like their first branch, FFL aims to cater to the entire family. Treat your kids to deliciously adorable meals such as FFL’s Teddy The Daddy (S$8), Little Miss Koala (S$8) or Chicken Little (S$10).

Their kids’ menu is prepared with less salt, without compromising on any of the other flavours for the children to enjoy. That is, if they’re willing to cut into something so cute.

From now until 30 Nov 2018, kids below 8 dine for free during weekends at Fresh Fruits Lab Z when you quote ‘ladyironchef’. Every order of a main course comes with a complimentary kid’s main (from the kids’ menu).

They also offer cake decorating to allow your kids to have a hand at crafting their own desserts. Choose from a range of their signature and have your children’s creativity flow from the tip of their chocolate pens.

For those kids that just can’t sit still, there’s a bouncy castle out in their backyard—set up at Fresh Fruits Lab Z on weekends. Boy, won’t the kids get so excited about this!

Your kids will absolutely love the bouncy castle where they can bounce and run back and forth. Fresh Fruits Lab Z Edition is the perfect place for parents to kick back and relax with good food while their children entertain themselves.

During lunch hours from 12pm to 3pm (except on public holidays), FFL offers a set menu consisting of a drink, salad and main for only S$10.90++.

For the alcoholics, you’d also be glad to know they have daily beer promotions. The most bang for the buck ones being Wednesdays for students, with beer towers at only S$39 (U.p. S$49–53), and Fridays with two towers going for S$89! Worth it!

Fresh Fruits Lab – The Z Edition
28 Clementi Road
Singapore 129754
Tel: +65 6803 7472
(Closed on Mondays)
Tues to Fri: 12pm – 12am
Sat & Sun: 11am – 12am
Nearest Station: Kent Ridge

Fresh Fruits Lab
351 Changi Rd, Singapore 419818
Tel: +65 6677 6741
Tue to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos/ Kembangan

This post was brought to you by Fresh Fruits Lab.

One of the newer additions to Sunshine Plaza’s slew of hidden food gems is Steakville, a humble hole-in-a-wall that serves up some seriously good steak as well as a myriad of other enticing mains.

Striving to bring the “farm to table” dining experience, Steakville sources their beef from specific farms, ensuring that only the best quality beef is chosen. Costing only S$15 for a hanger steak, we were beyond impressed given the quality of it. On top of their food, they also serve solid artisanal cuppas as well as an array of cocktails.

Located within walking distance from NAFA and Kaplan, this new steak joint is definitely a great hangout spot for students as well given its location and affordable prices.

With only 6 curated mains to choose from, Steakville keeps its menu offerings limited to ensure that quality is prioritised above all.

This small, 25-seater restaurant is decorated with wooden furnishings and gentle lighting, making it a cosy space for an intimate meal.

Starting our meal off proper with something to snack on, we opted for Steakville’s Italian’s Truffle Fries (S$12++) that features a bowl filled to the brim with truffle-infused shoestring fries, accompanied by a side of their house-made truffle mayonnaise dip.

Salted just right and topped with a generous topping of shaved parmesan, it was pretty decent by our standards although we wouldn’t necessarily it was the best we’ve tried.

Coming to a place with a name like Steakville and trying anything but steak would be pretty silly, which was why it didn’t take long before we settled on their Signature Hanger Steak (S$15++) and it was hands down one of the better steaks we have tried.

Served with a House Leaf Salad, beetroot purée, truffle mustard and Maldon sea salt and costing only S$15++, you get a decent portion of steak that is pan-seared to perfection.

The steak was perfectly charred and incredibly juicy and tender on the inside. Even though the beef tastes excellent on its own, the combination of the subtly sweet beetroot purée and umami-packed truffle mustard really enhances the flavour of the meat tenfold.

We also got the Seared Norwegian Salmon (S$15++) that comes with a generous piece of pan-seared salmon, salad, beetroot purée and herb-infused honey mustard dip.

The seared salmon was cooked decently but our only gripe would be the fact that the skin was not as crispy as we had liked.

However, the salmon was really soft and flaky just the way we like it. A tad salty at first, but soon balanced out when dipped into their special, sweet and tangy herb-infused honey mustard dip.

Steakville
91 Bencoolen Street,
Sunshine Plaza #01-56
Singapore 189652
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Closed on Sundays
Nearest Station: Bencoolen

Casual Italian restaurant Pasta J is one of our favourite hangout spots along Upper Thomson Road. The restaurant has been gaining a reputation for itself among the public for serving a toothsome array of homemade pasta and steaks. As Pasta J is also a pet-friendly dining place, you will find pet owners who are residing in the area dropping by on a frequent basis with their fur babies.

Pasta J’s humble beginnings started when owner John Chan was selling his own pesto sauce creation at events. Upon receiving many positive feedbacks, he decided to open his own stall at a hawker centre and eventually become so successful that he could open his own restaurant. Till today, diners are treated to a curated menu featuring John’s personal recipes.

Signature items on their menu include Pesto Pasta, The Break-Up Steak and Caramel Carnivore. Guests who are interested in their special sauces are able to buy them off the shelves too.

The unpretentious restaurant is spacious and cosy—guests are greeted with warm lighting, white communal tables and large sofa seats; Pasta J makes you feel right at home from the moment you step in.

What we love most is that the hospitality at Pasta J extends to your pet too. The restaurant welcomes small dogs and they are given a bowl of iced water and even free kibbles that will have your puppy’s tail wagging with joy.

While you may think that Pasta J is more well-known for their pasta, the owner actually recommends the restaurant’s delectable selection of meats—The Super Striploin (S$31.90) and the Terribly Troublesome Pork Chops (S$17.90++).

That being said, their signature pasta dishes are not to be missed either. If you are looking for a crowd-favourite, the Wholesome Chicken Soup Pasta (S$16.90++) will do the trick. You get half a chicken leg placed in a light chicken soup that is made from pressure-cooked chicken bones and barley.

Alternatively, you may also want to consider Garlic Herb Chicken (S$16.90++) and The Bourdain (S$16.90++).

Pasta J
205 Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574345
Tel: +65 9004 1800
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 12 Midnight
Sat: 10.30am – 12 Midnight
Sun: 10.30am – 11pm
PH (excluding Sundays): 10.30am – 12 Midnight
Nearest Station: Marymount

Fat Belly is a new speakeasy-style steakhouse in Singapore that shares the same space with its sister brand and ice cream joint, Sugarhaus, at Serene Centre. It only opens in the evening, occupying the counter seats at the back of the ice cream parlour.

This 10-seater steakhouse is helmed by chef-owner Stanley Seow, who specialises in alternative, less well-known cuts of beef such as the Flat Iron, which is essentially a cut taken from the shoulder of a cow—generally much less tender than a tenderloin or even a ribeye but let us leave it to the expert to prove us otherwise.

Photo Credit: Fat Belly Singapore

The menu is small and concise. Choose either the Flat Iron (S$22) or the juicy well-marbled Short Rib (S$25). Instead of drowning their steaks in an overly rich sauce, they are treated with a modest seasoning of salt and a house-made chimichurri sauce that comes served on the side—simple, yet ideal for meat as flavourful as this.

Some side dishes to consider are their Guanciale Mac & Cheese (S$5), Salted Thyme Mushrooms (S$5) and the surprisingly addictive, Creamed Kale (S$5).

For dessert, don’t miss out on the unusual Foie Gras Ice Cream (S$13) that comes served with candied bananas, Speculoos and roasted nuts.

Fat Belly
10 Jalan Serene, #01-03A
Serene Centre
Singapore 258748
Tel: +65 6314 2247
Sun to Thu: 6pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

FIVE-TEN is the latest addition to the developing restaurant scene located along South Bridge Road. If there is any way to describe their food, it is total comfort inspired by the dynamic street food scene of Taipei.

During lunchtime, they offer a spectacular array of innovative dishes such as their take on the popular Taiwanese street food, Lu Rou Fan, and at night, the humble and seemingly innocent establishment transforms into a bar where you can enjoy a tipple.

At FIVE-TEN, you can expect quality Taiwanese-style comfort food at super affordable prices.

The interior is dark yet sophisticated, similar to the kind you would expect to find at a speakeasy bar. The brick wall by the bar adds to the ambiance by giving this eatery a rustic feel.

FIVE-TEN has an array innovative tipples like gaoliang slushies as well as a curated selection of beers, wines, and spirits—priced between $5++ and $10++—to cater to the after-work drinking crowd and late night revelers.

For starters, we ordered a sharing plate of their Fried Chicken (S$5++). A mixture of chicken thigh and breast meat are thinly coated with flour and are deep fried till crispy. The dish comes with a seaweed mayonnaise which the chef makes in-house.

The fried chicken pieces were super crisp and surprisingly juicy on the inside. The seaweed mayonnaise added a refreshing umami touch to the dish, creating a new dimension of savouriness which worked exceptionally well with the crispy chicken.

Fans of Taiwanese food fare will be impressed with their version of the iconic Lu Rou Fan
(S$10++).

A bowl filled with a generous scoop of Japanese short-grain rice doused in a sweet and savoury sauce is topped with thick cuts of braised pork belly, boiled kai lan and a sous-vide egg.

Each individual element was executed perfectly; the braised pork belly was tender, juicy and beautifully infused with the braising liquid, while the kai lan added a nice crunch to the dish. The runny egg yolk provided an added richness to the dish which we felt was what made the whole dish such a joy to eat.

One of their popular mains at FIVE-TEN is the Steak, Rice, and Egg (S$10++). As its name suggests, it is essentially a rice bowl with seared sirloin steak topped with a sous-vide egg.

A generous portion of beautifully cooked steak is neatly displayed to showcase its glorious pink shade. It was tender and the few sprinkles of sea salt really helped to bring out the beefy flavours.

The dish comes with pickled Chinese cabbage on the side. We felt that the tartness added a whole new flavour dimension. It really helped to cut through the richness of the steak and the egg.

If tasty innovative Taiwanese-style eats at affordable prices are what you are after, then you need to make a trip down to FIVE-TEN today!

Five Ten
237 South Bridge Road
Tel: +65 6924 7352
(Closed on Mondays)
Tues to Sat: 10am – 10pm
Sun: 10am – 2.30pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown

A slew of eateries—including Lunar Coffee Brewers, 6 Oz Espresso, Venue by Sebastian—has opened at the new Downtown Gallery in the Central Business District.

The newest addition is The Autobus—a bicycle-themed cafe that serves up healthy salad bowls as well as good coffee and tea. This is undoubtedly every bicycle enthusiast’s dream because not only do they sell food here, they also carry a huge range of bicycle equipment and apparel.

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This newly-established cafe adopts a DIY food menu in that customers are required to fill up an order form. The current menu only includes rice bowls ranging from S$12 to S$16 with additional charges for premium ingredients. The weekend brunch menu has more options such as Full Breakfast (S$18), Eggs Ben (S$11) and Wagyu Burger (S$24).

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We got ourselves two standard S$12 bowls which include, 1 protein, 1 carb, 3 sides and a dressing of choice.

For the first bowl, we got a base carb of quinoa, with the protein being the Grilled Sirloin Steak (+S$2) and topped with the Soy Sesame dressing. Sides consisted of Broccoli, Sweet Corn, and the Spa Egg.

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The Grilled Sirloin Steak was cooked medium-rare and was incredibly tender which is perfect for steak fans.

For our second bowl, we went for Penne pasta for our base carb and the BBQ Pulled Pork as the protein. Sides included Bell Peppers, Button Mushrooms, and the Spa Egg, which were all completed with fresh and fragrant Basil Pesto.

The pasta was cooked al dente and the BBQ Pulled Pork was moist and flavourful. We also liked that the peppers were cooked till soft—something which many salad joints tend to neglect.

We must say that we were really impressed by the Chai Latte here. Unlike many other cafes that source their Chai spice mix externally (and in bulk), the baristas at The Autobus actually make it in-house daily!

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Each individual Chai spice is toasted in a pan separately to bring out a much deeper aroma. After which, they are all steeped in a pot filled with Ceylon tea and brought to a simmer. The flavours are then allowed to mingle and intensify overnight, only to be served the following day.

Their hot Chai Latte (S$5) is the epitome of a perfect beverage on a rainy day. Spicy, comforting and incredibly aromatic. This is something we definitely recommend.

Overall, we really enjoyed in this huge and cosy space. A conducive working environment with free wi-fi, coupled with the beautiful aromas of freshly heated spices make for a pretty decent work-week afternoon.

The Autobus
6A Shenton Way
Downtown Gallery #01-01
Mon to Fri: 7am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 7am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

72o Bistro & The Toys is the latest addition to Holland Village’s vibrant dining scene and the spacious restaurant specialises in North Indian and Western cuisine.

At this new Heroes-themed restaurant, you can look forward to a comprehensive menu, the best beer deals and an impressive collection of Marvel’s limited edition figurines—including a life-size iron man!

Most of the dishes on 72o Bistro & The Toys’ menu are priced below S$15 nett—there is no GST and service charge.

Quote ‘ladyironchef’ to enjoy 1-for-1 promotion on all main courses (during Sundays to Thursdays lunch and dinner) from now until 28 Feb 2016.

Set foot into the dimly-lit restaurant and you will be greeted by a gigantic Iron Man statue. The life-size figurine was imported directly from the United States of America; and we say, it is a dream come true for all fans. We couldn’t stop staring at it, and we chose a table right beside so it felt like we were dining with Tony Stark!

72o Bistro & The Toys’ glass cabinet showcases a wide selection of Marvel limited edition figurines, including Black Widow, Captain America, Hulk, Thor and more. The restaurant owner has been collecting these figurines since 2000 and he decided to open a themed bistro to share his prized possessions with like-minded fans.

The collection is really expensive, and it is fascinating, to say the least.

There are a bunch of starters on 72o Bistro & The Toys’ menu. We suggest you get the Spicy Buffalo Wings (S$8.90 nett / five pieces) for sharing.

Each succulent chicken wing is marinated, deep-fried and tossed in spicy buffalo sauce. Carrot and cucumber sticks are served on the side with a blue cheese dip.

For something more substantial, share the 2 Amigos Pizza (S$13.90 nett) baked with bacon bits, bratwurst sausage, tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.

It is worth mentioning that every item is served in an incredibly generous portion!

The Dancing Prawn Aglio Olio (S$14.80 nett) might look unassuming, but do not let its simplicity fool you. It is hands down our favourite Western dish from 72o Bistro & The Toys.

Al dente spaghetti is served with fresh and plump sautéed prawns, chilli flakes, garlic, onion, olive oil and pepper. Flavourful in every bite, and certainly very filling!

The 72o House Burger (S$15.80 nett) is a value-for-money main course that will fill you up easily. Melted cheese, chargrilled beef patty, smoked bacon bits, mushroom, romaine lettuce, cherry tomato, mayonnaise and a sunny side egg are served atop two palm-size sesame buns with a garden salad and a tin of fries on the side.

72o Bistro & The Toys’ signature dish is the chef-recommended Grass-fed Rib-eye Steak (S$24 nett). The rib-eye steak is grilled to the doneness of your choice and served with asparagus, mushrooms, potato wedges, salad and drenched in an aromatic brown sauce.

For something different, consider the 72o Curry Chicken Burger (S$12.80 nett), which resembles more of a sandwich. Fork-tender marinated chicken, Indian curry gravy, pineapple rings, romaine lettuce and onion slices are stuffed inside a ciabatta bread.

We have to admit that the North Indian delicacies served at 72o Bistro & The Toys seriously surpassed our expectations. Frankly speaking, there seems to be little or no link between North Indian cuisine and a bistro decked out in Marvel decors. But boy, we were impressed to no end.

The fragrant Butter Chicken (S$12.80 nett) is a must-order. In fact, we would gladly make a return special trip just for their Butter Chicken! Think tender boneless chicken cooked with a thick, buttered masala gravy. Needless to say, this Indian classic was the star of the meal—everyone was digging into the viscous tomato-based mixture.

Think tender boneless chicken cooked with a thick, buttered masala gravy. Needless to say, this Indian classic was the star of the meal—everyone was digging into the viscous tomato-based mixture.

While the Butter Chicken tastes good on its own, the Cheese and Garlic Naan (S$4.80 nett) and Chicken Briyani (S$11.80 nett) make great accompaniments.

The former is a delicious Indian bread baked in clay oven, whereas the latter is a traditional Indian dish comprising curried chicken and spiced rice. Can’t decide what to have? Order all. No such thing as too much good food.

By now, you are probably overwhelmed by the seemingly endless options available.

Want more sharing dishes? Then give the Chicken Suslick (S$9.80 nett / two sticks, S$17.80 nett / four sticks) a shot. These skewers consist of marinated chicken chunks, grilled capsicums and onions.

For the most bang for your buck, visit 72o Bistro & The Toys during lunchtime and dig into these scrumptious dishes at unbelievable prices—we are talking about S$8.80 nett for a set!

72o Bistro & The Toys is also ideal for after-work drinks. Marvel figurines and toys; sounds like a fab idea.

They have an awesome variety of beverages. Regardless of whether it is beer, wine, liquor or non-alcoholic drinks you are after, there is bound to be something you fancy sipping.

Ladies, do give their house-made 72o Classic Champagne (S$12 nett) a shot! This refreshing bubbly is available exclusively on Ladies Night aka Wednesdays at one-for-one. Weekend warriors should try their Watermelon Soju (S$28 nett), which is essentially an entire carved watermelon filled with soju. Note that this fruity potent drink is only available on Saturdays.

And by the way, their prices are one of the most competitive in the Holland Village dining district! Now you know where to head to next for drinks and food when you are in the vicinity. We know for sure that we will be heading back for Butter Chicken and drinks!

And Tony Stark.

Remember to quote ‘ladyironchef’ to enjoy 1-for-1 promotion on all main courses (during Sundays to Thursdays lunch and dinner) from now until 28 Feb 2016.

P.s. 72o Bistro & The Toys’ venue is also available for private events.

72o Bistro & The Toys
19 Lorong Liput
Singapore 277732
Tel: +65 6463 6028
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Fri and Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 1am
Sun: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

This post is brought to you by 72o Bistro & The Toys.

The Pipe District sits far away from the city area in the Western side of Singapore. The relaxing vibes of the place is a stark contrast to the surrounding office buildings, providing a little rest-and-relax place for anyone wanting some good food and fun.

The theme of the place is industrial and the entire place is filled with pipes and rustic wooden decor.

The Pipe District has some stellar dishes such as the Charcoal Fish & Chips (from S$14) and the Prime Beef Tenderloin on Himalayn Salt Block (S$32). They also have a huge range of sharing items such as wings and fries.

If meats are your thing, it is worth the trip down just to have the Prime Beef Tenderloin. You get generous slices of the beef on top of a heated salt block and you can “cook” your steak to your preferred doneness before consuming. We recommend no more than 2 to 3 seconds per side—just to get that slight sear, with a pink centre.

Cooking it on the Himalayan salt block gives the steak a little more taste and wow-factor. Also, the dish comes with seasonal vegetables, garlic rice and sauces that will definitely keep your tummy happy. However, to taste the true glory of the beef, skip the sauces and have the meat fresh off the salt block.

The Charcoal Fish & Chips is one that we were sceptical about at first, only because we had our initial reservations on whether or not the dish was overrated because of how it looks. But the batter was crispy with the right amount of thickness and the fish on the inside was glistening—far from being overcooked.

There are three choices for the Fish & Chips – Scottish Salmon (S$18), Atlantic Cod (S$20) and Dory Fish (S$14).

The Pipe District
45 Science Park Road
#01-09/10
Singapore 117407
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Tel: +65 6873 0143
Nearest Station: Kent Ridge

Newly opened contemporary restaurant Ash & Char sits in the heart of Singapore’s CBD. The gastro-bar—opened by the team behind Rise & Grind Coffee Co—is just a short walk away from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station and Telok Ayer MRT station.

Ash & Char derived its name from the primary cooking techniques used for its dishes. Do not let the fancy interiors put you off; the menu is actually surprisingly affordable. The scrumptious main courses here range between S$15++ to S$21++ for a scrumptious plate of Aglio Olio and Hanger Steak respectively.

The versatile venue is perfect for business luncheons, dinner dates and even after-work drinks.

The Hanger Steak (S$21++) was cooked to medium rare, but we thought the soft and chewy slices were leaning towards rare doneness instead. The 150-day grain-fed Angus steak is served with charred baby romaine lettuce, tomatoes, garlic flakes and a semi-spicy pickled jalapeño purée.

Ash & Char’s Korean Chicken Burger (S$17++) was served with crisp sweet potato fries. Succulent marinated fork-tender Korean fried chicken, in-house fermented kimchi and refreshing apple slaw are sandwiched between two fluffy sesame buns.

If you are torn between the Korean Chicken Burger and the Hanger Steak, we say go for the burger instead.

We also recommend the Bacon & Mushroom Carbonara (S$16++). Al dente penne pasta is cooked in fragrant white wine and served with aromatic mushrooms, crispy garlic flakes, streaky bacon and a sous vide egg.

Ash & Char
#01-03/04, 21 McCallum Street
Singapore 069047
Tel: +65 9132 8880
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves travelling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all-time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Brothers In Fine Food, a new cafe open in Tampines West Community Centre, is opened by the good folks behind Penny University.

The space sits in the heart of the Tampines West residential cluster and it is definitely one of the new cafés in Singapore that you should not miss out on.

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Brothers In Fine Food mixes quality, creative interpretations of dishes with amazingly affordable prices, making it the perfect recipe for a tantalising yet comforting meal in neighbourhood spaces.

Opened just a few weeks ago in November 2016, Brothers In Fine Food is the perfect place to be at for a peaceful solo lunch, or a casual get-together with friends after work.

Do not be fooled by Brothers In Fine Food’s seemingly small interiors. Their creative menu innovations give the saying ‘tiny but mighty’ new meaning. Case in point: the Beef Steak.

The beef sits in a pool of bright pink beetroot purée, which adds an unexpected yet welcome sweetness to the otherwise regular beef steak. The meat is succulent, juicy, and cooked to the perfect tenderness, while the beetroot purée is both creamy and tangy.

We found ourselves wiping the purée off the plate even after we were long done with the steak. The best part about this dish: it is available at just S$13.50. What is there not to love?

For desserts, the Greek Yoghurt Panna Cotta (S$8) is a good shout. The homemade honeycomb crunch, fruits and lavender honey lends the dish a balanced mix of soft, milky, crispy and fragrant all at once. It was a treat for the senses to say the least.

The poached pears that came with the panna cotta was also cooked to just the right texture – crunchy and sweet to taste. It made a great pairing with the greek yoghurt panna cotta.

As is expected, Brothers In Fine Food also offers a range of coffee for your daily caffeine dosage. We got a regular latte which costs just S$5.50. It was just what the doctor ordered to complement the entire meal.

Brothers In Fine Food
5 Tampines Avenue 3
#02-07, Tampines West Community Club
Singapore 529705
Tue to Fri: 12pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 10.30pm
Closed on Mondays
Nearest Station: Tampines

The East of Singapore is where one will find plenty of hidden treasures. While there are many concept cafes out there, To-gather Cafe in Bedok (next to Fengshan Market) is one gem where you can unwind from work.

Walk into the cafe and you will notice that cursive writings of inspirational quotes and song lyrics fill up the walls in the most elegant manner. There is also a wall featuring post-it notes with messages and compliments penned down personally by customers.

Inspired by an all-time favourite childhood song “The More We Get Together”, the owners of To-gather cafe aims to create a homey ambience concept where people gather together over a good meal and artisan coffees. The cafe offers delectable signature dishes and the most flavourful desserts to end your meal with.

The best part? Most of the main courses are affordably priced under S$12. To-gather Cafe is one place where you can have a good meal without breaking the bank.

GRILLED TENDERLOIN OF BEEF

We are mentioning this dish first because everyone agreed unanimously that this was the best.

Everything about the Grilled Tenderloin of Beef (S$24.90) just clicked together—the soft tenderloin steak grilled to pinkish medium rare doneness, with an addictive black pepper sauce and fragrant truffle oil, complete with mash potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

BRAISED BEEF PASTA

If having a beef steak is too much for you, go for the Braised Beef Pasta (S$11.90). We enjoyed the warm creamy spaghetti jazzed up with colourful bell peppers, button mushrooms and caramelised onions. The star ingredient of this pasta dish is the slow braised beef brisket. We always appreciate the flavours of a long simmered sauce; rich, aromatic and very tender.

The star ingredient of this pasta dish is the slow braised beef brisket. We always appreciate the flavours of a long simmered sauce; rich, aromatic and very tender.

PORK CORDON BLEU

The Pork Cordon Bleu (S$11.90) at To-gather Cafe is coated with a crispy crust of bread crumbs and we were greeted by a generous portion of ham and cheese stuffing when we pulled the pork loin apart.

It is important that the chef has the skills to ensure that the top layer has been deep fried to form a crispy casing, while the meat inside remains juicy. We are glad to say that the one at To-gather Cafe is worth trying. The Pork Cordon Bleu comes with fries and fresh salad drizzled over with light mustard sauce.

GRILLED PANDAN CHICKEN CHOP

Chicken chop may be a common item on most menus but Pandan Chicken Chop? Now that’s something we have to mention. The folks at To-gather Cafe have reinvented what used to be a run-of-the-mill food item into an interesting dish you cannot help but notice.

The marinated grilled chicken chop (S$9.90) is marinated with, of course, pandan and doused in a light coconut sauce. To spice things up a little more, a spoonful of pineapple salsa—made from scratch within the premises—is placed atop the chicken chop.

This is something the older folks can try if you are planning to visit with your family!

ARTISANAL COFFEE AND DESSERTS

The baristas at To-gather cafe have the usuals to serve you—Caffe Latte (S$4.20) and Cappuccino (S$4.20); and if you are more inclined towards tea, try the Matcha Latte (S$5.20). If you do not know, yes, Matcha Latte has no coffee in it.

You know what is the one dessert that got all of us swooning? The Homemade Hojicha Swiss Roll with Thick Hojicha Shot (S$5.90), a new item that is launched earlier this month. The idea of serving the dessert with a shot of Hojicha Latte is so that you can take sips in between bites because Swiss rolls tend to be dry; yes, we were so incredibly impressed by this “little touch”.

By the way, the Hojicha used for this dessert is made of premium Hojicha powder imported directly from Japan!

To-gather Cafe’s Matcha Lava Cake with Vanilla Gelato (S$7.20) has been making its rounds on Instagram in the last two years. It comes with a distinctively rich matcha flavour and a single scoop of vanilla gelato,

Come November 2016, To-gather Cafe will be celebrating its third birthday! And in conjunction with their birthday celebrations, they will be returning to society by donating a part of their proceeds to a social enterprise that provides clean water for rural communities.

Bring your family and friends over to this nostalgic cafe for a meal in the heartlands. After all, this is what To-gather Cafe is all about—the more we get together, the happier we’ll be!

And while you are at it, don’t forget to check out all the murals on the wall! They are done by local artists and it does not hurt to have a photo or two of it on your Instagram account!

To-gather Cafe
#01-25/27
84 Bedok North Street 4
Singapore 460084
Tel: +65 6445 1011
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

This post is brought to you by To-gather Cafe.

Sitting in the heartlands of Singapore, in the bustling neighbourhood of Toa Payoh is Krazy Salad Bar, a nondescript eatery that is more than just salad. It is a semi-buffet place that has a full menu of Western main courses and we love them for their value-for-money main course + salad bar concept.

Of course, it is up to you whether you want to go for the full works, and you can always just opt for just the main course or the salad buffet. But if we are telling you that for under S$20, you get free flow of main courses, salad and desserts, would you not be tempted?

Now, this offer right in the heart of Toa Payoh Central is a gem—yes you need to check out Krazy Salad Bar.

From now until 30 November 2016 (Mon – Thu), readers of ladyironchef can simply quote “ladyironchef” or flash this post to enjoy the free top-up of a salad buffet, or to enjoy a discounted top-up of S$5 for free flow main courses from the special promotional menu.

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SALAD BAR

While you may frown upon salads, let’s just say Krazy’s salad bar is more than just vegetables and healthy whatnots.

There is a selection of soups on a weekly rotation. Soup choices range from the highly popular Mushroom Soup to comforting Clam Chowder Soup and Country Pumpkin Soup. The Mushroom Soup is a mainstay because it is the most well-loved for its chunky, creamy goodness.

The salad and toppings are also on rotation. Enjoy free-flow Smoked Duck Salad on the first week; Pumpkin and Cashew on the second; and Hawaiian Chicken on the third… you get the drift.

At Krazy Salad Bar, some vegetables such as Tangy Romaine, Green Caesar and Lollo Red are actually local produce from Singapore’s very own vegetable farm. And the best news is that they are pesticide-free! Indeed, the vegetables are a lot more crisp, fresh and sweet.

And did we mention that there is free-flow soft serve, too?

The all-you-can-eat salad bar is available as an a la carte at S16.90 (lunch) & $19.90 (dinner) and S$9 as an add-on to your main. But you know what is the good news?

Simply flash this post upon ordering and the add-on fee of S$9 will be waived entirely. In other words, with every order of a main course, you are entitled to a buffet at the salad bar too!

KRAZY PEPPERY RIBS

Oh, just look at that glorious rack of ribs. Baked slowly in the oven, the Krazy Peppery Ribs (S$28.90) are glazed with homemade peppery BBQ sauce. We enjoyed pulling the ribs apart and have it fall into a beautiful mess of tender meat and sticky peppery BBQ sauce.

TENDERLOIN STEAK

You might sceptical about a steak at a salad bar. We shared the exact sentiments too before taking a bite into the tenderloin. Our medium rare steak (S$29.9) was juicy and flavourful, to say the least.

Red wine infused gravy poured over the steak gave it an extra oomph, and it was the kind of comforting Western food goodness that reminded us of good old childhood days when our parents would reward us with a good Western meal if we did well in school.

HOT LAVA CHICKEN

This one is for those who want something spicier and more kickass. The Hot Lava Chicken (S$13.90++) is served with Chef David’s homemade hot and spicy lava sauce, and was strongly recommended to us as one of the best sellers in the house.

We could see why it is a favourite among regulars for the marinated chicken thigh was so tender, with hints of BBQ sauce and chilli, and complete with a smoky aftertaste.

TYSON PORK CUTLET

It is not just the Japanese who serve up good pork cutlets. The pork cutlet (S$13.90++) we had at Krazy Salad Bar was extremely crispy. Every piece is double crumbed and deep fried till golden brown, and Chef Tyson’s recipe carries a mild charred taste which balances well with the accompanying sweet sauce.

OTHER MAINS AT KRAZY SALAD BAR

Besides the dishes that we’ve mentioned, Krazy Salad Bar has an extensive menu which has other main courses such as Battered Fish & Chips, Surf & Turf, Pan-seared Salmon Steak, Lemongrass Pacific Dory, Pan-seared Duck Breast and Oriental Pork Chop.

EXCLUSIVE PROMOTION FOR READERS OF LADYIRONCHEF

There are various top-up options, but our readers are exclusively entitled to a complimentary salad bar top-up when you quote “ladyironchef” or flash this post upon placing your order. This means you are only paying for your main course but your meal will come complete with salads, pasta, soups and more at the all-you-can-eat salad bar.

The next option, which is the one we prefer, is a top-up of S$9 (Option B) on top of your mains from Krazy’s special promotional menu—which includes mains such as Hot Lava Chicken, Salmon Steak, Pork Cutlet, Sirloin Steak and American Sticky Ribs—to enjoy the salad bar buffet and endless mains!

That means paying only S$9 for your second or even third plate of Sirloin Steak. How awesome is that? And for Ladyironchef readers, the add-on fee for Option B will be only S$5 when you flash this post upon ordering. Yes, S$5 for a complete buffet. You know this is one deal you must not pass up on!

This exclusive promotion is valid on Mondays to Thursdays (not applicable on eve of and Public Holiday) from 13 October to 30 November 2016.

By the way, you don’t have to pay for GST when you dine at Krazy Salad Bar. This is really one wallet friendly semi-buffet place – for students, for those who are tight on their budgets, for those who are after a casual yet satisfying meal, for everyone who loves both their greens and meats!

Krazy Salad Bar
Toa Payoh Central (Above KFC)
#02-516, Block 190 Toa Payoh Lorong 6
Singapore 310190
Tel: +65 6254 7872
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm (last order 9.30pm)
Nearest Station: Toa Payoh

This post is brought to you by Krazy Salad Bar.

Beefing up their game – pun intended – Hilton Singapore’s Opus Bar & Grill introduces carefully selected prime grade Greater Omaha steaks, a great addition to their already amazing Australian steaks line-up. The success story behind Opus Bar & Grill’s iconic steaks comes from their open-flame charcoal grill and the use of a Himalayan salt tile dry-aging cabinet to dry-age the signature Australian Rangers Valley OP rib.

Steak prices for the newly-launched Greater Omaha Steaks are priced from S$68++ only and that’s supreme value for quality steaks! Non-steak lovers also have new fish and chicken options to look forward to.

Here’s the cherry on top – you can enjoy free flow house wines with every steak order! Steaks and wine; ain’t it going to be a wonderful night?

The highlight of the night goes to Opus Bar & Grill’s new selection of three prime grade cuts from U.S. Greater Omaha which are known for having strict requirements in keeping up to the high standards of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The 220g U.S. Greater Omaha steaks that are served to you are certified 100 days corn-fed beef cuts that taste well on its own without the need for extra seasoning.

The 220g US Prime Cut 100-Days Corn-Fed Sirloin (S$68++) is a cut that everyone can enjoy. It is a mix between the juicy fatty ribeye and meaty tenderloin, with a delicate, marbled texture and a slightly smoky flavour.

We love the green peppercorn sauce with this steak, or just a simple and light sprinkle of salt.

If you love a juicier and more intensely buttery steak, ribeye cuts are always the best. It was unanimous – the 220g US Prime Cut 100-Days Corn-Fed Ribeye (S$88++) was everyone’s favourite at dinner.

The ribeye really needs no additional seasoning. The flavours are so fragrant, especially when they are grilled over a flame. To taste the true goodness of these gorgeous meats, have them on its own. However, if you love a good sauce with your steak, a lighter garlic herb butter sauce makes a perfect pairing.

Lastly, from the Greater Omaha range is the 220g US Prime Cut 100-Days Corn-Fed Tenderloin (S$78++). This is probably the most tender Tenderloin; most tenderloin cuts leave us chewing forever because they are more often than not tough. It is impressive how the meat was still able to sustain most of its moisture and natural flavour.

Sprinkle some salt, have it with a béarnaise sauce and eat it alongside Opus Bar & Grill’s garlic mashed potato. The mashed potato itself is worth a mention. We never had a more buttery and smooth version that goes so perfectly with the tender meat.

If you do not fancy red meat, which happens when dining in big groups because surely someone doesn’t take beef, that’s when the new items on the menu will be your answer.

The Roasted Sakura Chicken (S$48++, good for 2 pax) is a beautiful and comforting option; rotisserie chicken always does the trick. The chicken is roasted with rosemary. The seasoning on the skin of the chicken turned out to be wonderfully crispy and fragrant, and the white flesh is succulent and tender.

What turned out to be the underdog was the Wild Sea Bass (S$36++). We never thought that we would fall in love with a fish dish in a steak restaurant, but this sea bass did just that. With a nice sear skin-side down, you get a good crisp on the side. It sits on top of clams, black mussels, artichokes and vine tomatoes in a very sweet seafood broth.

We were blown away. And we are afraid when we next return to Opus Bar & Grill, this dish of Wild Sea Bass might distract us from the steaks.

We ended our dinner on a high note with the Bombe Alaska (S$14), which was on its own a sight to behold. When the flames caught onto the white fluffy meringue, the top layer started burning while the ice cream on the inside remained intact; it was show stopping.

The meringue sits atop cream cheese ice cream and mandarin orange sorbet. The intense creamy ice cream sure balanced out the lighter and more refreshing sorbet well.

Opus Bar & Grill’s popular ‘Steak with Free Flow of Wines‘ dinner special is reintroduced and is happening now from Sunday to Thursday every week. With a purchase of any steak from S$58++ on the regular dinner menu, you get free-flow house wine – pick from red, white and sparkling.

On Fridays and Saturdays, you get 50% off a full bottle with every purchase of a steak.

We’ve never heard of any better steak promotions in town. This is it; dinner dates are set. At OpusBar & Grill, you get the best of both worlds with the U.S. Greater Omaha Prime Grade Steaks and their Australian Steaks selections.

Quote “LICOPUS50” to get 1 FREE dessert at Opus (worth up to $14++) with a minimum spending of $80 on your total bill. Valid for our first 50 readers and limited to 1 redemption per table only.

Opus Bar & Grill
Hilton Singapore
581 Orchard Road, Singapore 238883
For Reservations: 6730 3390 / Opus@hilton.com
Website: singapore.hilton.com./opus
Daily: 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard Road

This post is brought to you by Hilton Singapore.

Over the years and especially in recent times, a new wave of mod-sin gourmet interpretations have been taking Singapore’s dining scene by storm and we are now seeing more and more unique East-meets-West creations. The terminology ‘mod-sin’ stands for modern Singaporean and refers to the interesting marriage of local delicacies and western classics, and should be a harmonious blend of flavours that complement each other.

With that simple but important focus, redpan at Marina Square – a hidden gem we fell in love with lately – has created a comprehensive menu of fusion inventions that have successfully combined the best of both worlds.

A little fun fact: redpan is an exciting collaborative venture between local architectural company DP Architects and homegrown The Food Explorer Group, who is behind Grub.

From Truffle Floss Fries, Prawn & ‘Hae Bi Hiam’ Pasta and Banana Donuts ‘Milo Dinosaur’, redpan’s menu drove us crazy and we actually cannot pick just one favourite. Well, our lunch was good and these were what we had.

To enhance the theme and celebrate local design, the designers from DP created a multi-functional space that is warm, vibrant and conveys a sense of chic, with its custom-made wooden curves.

Design accents, like the custom-designed hanging glass feature comprising 2,000 glass pieces individually adjusted by hand over weeks, celebrate local creativity and craftsmanship complementing the food.

#1 CHAR SIEW CHILLI FRIES

Why settle for plain old boring French fries when you can have a deluxe version topped with a familiar ingredient? redpan’s Char Siew Chilli Fries (S$7++) is quite a showstopper with its homemade char siew ragout, jalapeño salsa and sour cream toppings. Think of it like the Singapore-style chilli con carne fries.

#2 TRUFFLE FLOSS FRIES

However, it is the insane Truffle Floss Fries (S$8++) that we will return religiously for. This mouthwatering rendition of Truffle Fries is one of the best we ever had. Cooked in truffle aioli and topped with chives and chicken floss, this starter is a blend of contrasting flavours that is totally worth every calorie. Damn, it’s addictive to say the least!

#3 PORK POPS

If fries are not your thing, then order the Pork Pops (S$9++). Presented in a red ceramic dish, the deep-fried marinated pork belly entree is complemented with a refreshing mango sauce that we couldn’t stop dipping our bites in.

#4 STEAK & CHINCHALOK

Chinchalok is a spiced Malaysian condiment made from chilli, lime juice, shallots and shrimp paste. Truth to be told, we were rather skeptical about the unlikely combination of fermented shrimps atop grilled steak. But we were to find out that the combination is an unconventionally brilliant one. The pickled onions might overpower the steak a little, but that was fine. We enjoyed this dish a lot.

#5 PRAWN & ‘HAE BI HIAM’ PASTA

Who would have thought that a Southeast Asian approach to a prawn pasta would produce such an extraordinary outcome? redpan’s Prawn & ‘Hae Bi Hiam’ Pasta (S$16++) is a huge plate of al dente tagliatelle tossed with handcrafted sambal and fresh sautéed prawns. You might want to know that the spicy shrimp paste is prepared with renowned Chef Mervyn Phan’s grandmother’s recipe.

#6 ‘HAR CHEONG’ CHICKEN CUTLET

redpan has extracted the key essence of Singaporeans’ beloved tze char dish prawn paste chicken wings (a.k.a. har cheong gai) and infused its flavours into a succulent chicken cutlet. Yes, that’s right – a plump chicken thigh that has been coated and marinated with aromatic shrimp paste before being deep-fried to a beautiful golden brown. The juicy cutlet is served with fragrant smashed potatoes, and you bet it totally won us over.

#7 100% NATURAL PORK BELLY ‘BAK KUT TEH’*

All hail the 160-gram seared pork belly (S$21++)! This main course is definitely far from what we all know of the local pork ribs soup. Instead, the fork-tender meat is a semi-dry version that is lavishly soaked in a thick, viscous peppery bak kut teh sauce and served with deep-fried crunchy dough fritters.

#8 BEEF SHORT RIB ‘SATAY’*

redpan’s Beef Short Ribs ‘Satay’ (S$32++) is another surprise and what we would totally use as a definition of mod-sin cuisine. Think 400 grams of soft, fleshy beef that has been sous vide to tenderness before being drenched in rich satay sauce and garnished with onions and pickled cucumber. Robust in flavour, and nothing short of delight in every bite.

#9 SALMON ‘KUNING’*

The Salmon Kuning (S$24++) features a generous slab of fish that is wonderfully delicate on the inside and finished off with a grilled crispy skin topped with kaffir lime aioli and curry powder. Not the most exciting dish, but we actually couldn’t stop eating this because it is a simple fish dish that is very comforting.

#10 CORNFED MAGRET DUCK BREAST*

Cornfed Margret Duck Breast (S$26++) is a fancy-looking poultry main that has been glazed with kechap manis (Indonesian sweet sauce), drizzled with cherry compote and decorated with yummy tropical pomegranates. Highly recommended and it is one of our favourites amongst the lot.

#11 RED DATE BUTTER CAKE

Desserts are incredibly pricey these days, so imagine our surprise when we discovered that redpan’s sweet treats cost no more than S$8++.

Red Date Butter Cake (S$8++) is an interesting hybrid between a sticky date pudding and butter cake. Served warm and moist, we love how the caramel date sauce and vanilla ice-cream elevated the richness of the cake.

#12 ‘TEH HALIA’ CREME BRÛLÉE

Teh Halia refers to our local beverage of ginger milk tea, and redpan is possibly the one and only restaurant in Singapore to serve such an exotic creation of ‘Teh Halia’ Creme Brûlée (S$7++). This dessert is really a classic creme brûlée infused with ginger tea. The taste of ginger is actually extremely subtle and the dessert remains sweet overall, so even if you are not a fan of ginger’s spiciness, this dessert is for you all the same!

#13 BANANA DONUTS ‘MILO DINOSAUR’

We actually haven’t met any Singaporean who does not like Milo Dinosaur. Guess what’s new, guys? Banana Donuts ‘Milo Dinosaur’ (S$7++) at redpan! This never-seen-before dessert is made up of banana spherical doughnuts that has a very lovely doughy texture that is slightly sticky. Served with milo crumbs, condensed milk and hazelnuts. Top up S$3.50++ to add a scoop of vanilla ice-cream, this is definitely the best dessert in the house!

*These items are only available from 5.30pm onwards.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

redpan
6 Raffles Boulevard
#02-03/04 Marina Square
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 6255 5850
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

This post is brought to you by redpan.

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

You can tell these people are really serious about their meats. And we love how Opus is just the place to visit whenever we crave for a good steak that will not disappoint. The best part? They are easily the place that offers the most affordable premium steaks in town!

From 18 January to 31 March 2016, you get free-flow sparkling, white and red wines with any order of Opus Beef Selection from Monday to Thursday between 7pm to 9pm. And from Friday to Sunday, enjoy a generous 50% discount off wines by the bottle with a steak purchase.

In addition to this, quote “LICOPUS” to get a complimentary best-seller dessert of Charcoal Grilled Banana with smoked salted caramel, coconut and calamansi ice cream with a minimum spend of just S$80 in a bill! Limited to first 80 redemptions only.

We know what you are thinking. You are skeptical of such a fantastic deal and wonder if it is only because your steak will cost an arm and a leg.

But your eyes are not tricking you. Prices at Opus Bar & Grill start from S$58++ for a 250g Grainge Angus to S$110 for a 800g dry-aged Australian Angus OP rib from Rangers Valley (for two pax) – an absolute steal when compared to many other lavish steakhouses!

Yes, S$110 for a huge slab that is good for two! Unbelievable, right? Regular steak eaters would know what value this is, and how you would easily have to pay double the price for that sort of quality at most of the steak houses in Singapore.

Opus Bar & Grill’s beef selections features five scrumptious premium steaks – just five good cuts is all you need.

The ambience and affordability makes it 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.

Each well-marbled steak at Opus Bar & Grill has been cooked with masterly finesse over an open flame to achieve an irresistibly delicious caramelised and smokey flavour.

Choose to complement the meats with a variety of high quality salts or pair them with Garlic Herb Butter, Bone Marrow with Red Wine Sauce, Green Peppercorn Sauce and Black Truffle Mushroom Sauce. But if you are like us who prefer a splendid steak naked, go for it!

We tried the entire menu just to suss out the best for you.

It was the Australian Kobe Wagyu Ribeye (S$92++ for 220g) with a marble score of 6, and Australian Tajima Wagyu Sirloin (S$88++ for 220g) with a marble score of 4/5 that have stolen our hearts forever.

Both wagyu steaks are remarkably tender, almost achieving a melt-in-your-mouth texture. There is no turning back once you savour the best; they are so satisfying that you will definitely head back for more. Best thing now is to take advantage of the beverage promotion, because steak and wine is just about the best pairing and you need not even pay an extra cent for free-flow of the house pours!

If you are a more budget-conscious steak lover, the grain-fed Grainge Angus Tenderloin (S$62++ for 220g) should do the trick to impress, too. Sure, it won’t be as impressive as the ones with better marbling, but while tenderloins tend to be very firm and hard to chew, Opus’ version is actually still quite tender and we did a double take! Pretty damn decent for a beginner’s steak!

The star of the show – the Australian Angus OP rib from Rangers Valley (S$110++ for 800g) – has a marble score of 4 and has been dry-aged for about a month. It is ideal for sharing between two persons, but should you be able to devour them all by yourself, by all means; nobody is judging!

With the inclusion of unlimited house sparkling, red and white wines should you dine from Monday to Thursday between 7pm to 9pm from now till 31 March, we are so going to visit Opus Bar & Grill again soon.

Just so you know too – there is a simple menu of side dishes that can complement your steaks. The highly popular gluten-free Smoked Risotto with Leek and Pecorino is Opus’ signature, or you can go for the classic Mac and Cheese. Grilled Green Asparagus and Baby Green Salad are for those who need their greens.

Each side dish is affordably priced at S$6++ each. Yes, you read that right. Aren’t you shocked by the price tag once again? Everywhere else charges at least S$12++ for side dishes and at Opus, it is half of that!

Good things take time, and a wait is required for the mouthwatering steaks.

You can start your meal with sumptuous starters first while waiting. We like the Tandoori Chicken Skewer (regular – S$16++, large – S$22++) and Tartar of Bluefin Tuna (S$17++).

Sweet notes to end your meal shall be grilled items, too. Well, the restaurant is called Opus Bar & Grill, yes? Of course the grilling concept has to extend to the desserts too!

The two fruity desserts that we highly recommend are Charcoal Grilled Banana (S$12++) and Grilled Honey Pineapple (S$12++).

First, we have a banana-based dessert that is beautifully flame-grilled and caramelised, then served with smoke salted caramel coconut and calamansi ice-cream. And we have a gorgeous pineapple treat that is grilled but still has its juice fully retained, then garnished with crumbles and a rum sauce.

Our readers can quote “LICOPUS” to get a complimentary Charcoal Grilled Banana worth S$12++ 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.

Opus Bar & Grill
at Hilton Singapore, 581 Orchard Road Singapore 238 883
For Reservations: 6730 3390 / Opus@hilton.com
Website: singapore.hilton.com./opus
Daily: 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard Road

This post is brought to you by Hilton Singapore.

Eating is an expensive hobby, and we all know the anguish of wanting a good meal but not having enough moolah to indulge. It is painful as much as it is frustrating. #FoodiesProblems

But you see, dining out need not be expensive if you know where to go. We have rounded up a list of 13 places in Singapore that serve budget main courses that are priced S$13 and below, and you know this is awesome news, right? No need to break the bank for a good and comforting meal, no need to pay an arm or a leg.

In this guide to budget eats under S$13, you will find a balanced mix of continental and international favourites from all over Singapore, so bookmark this page and it will save you on rainy days when your wallet has no ability to take any more beating.

#1 AH BONG’S ITALIAN – BASIL PESTO PASTA

Ah Bong’s Italian at Tiong Bahru changes their menu daily but recycles some popular picks. If you’re lucky enough that day and the Basil Pesto Pasta or a variation of it is on the menu, don’t hesitate to order it.

Doused evenly with rich pesto sauce, the overall pasta taste is taken up a notch with what we felt was a light addition of chicken broth and other seasonings – unveiling an extremely palatable taste. The pastas here are all prepared a la minute so the pastas are best eaten the minute it reaches your table. For just a mere S$7, we’re definitely coming back for more!

56 Eng Hoon Street
#01-46
Singapore 160056
Tel: +65 9650 6194
Daily: 10am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

#2 ARBITE – BANANA & CARAMEL PANCAKES

When in Serangoon Gardens, the cafe to go to is Arbite. This cafe started with humble beginnings some years ago, and today, it is a perennial favourite among residents and cafe-goers.

We like that the menu is not cluttered with the “typical cafe food”. What had us going back is the pancakes. For only S$12, you enjoy a stack of fluffy pancakes with banana, caramel sauce, sea salt, walnuts and vanilla ice-cream.

66A Serangoon Garden Way
Singapore 555962
Tel: +65 6287 0430
Mon to Fri: 11.30 am – 3.00 pm, 6.00pm – 10.30pm
Sat to Sun: 11.00 am – 10.30 pm
Nearest Station: Serangoon/Lorong Chuan

#3 EWF BY EVERYTHING WITH FRIES – HAR JEONG KAI BURGER

Prices at EwF are extremely budget-friendly, especially when the portions are more than substantial. A mouthwatering burger combo (inclusive of a burger, fries and beverage of your choice) starts from an affordable S$11.90.

The Har Jeong Kai Burger (S$8.90/ala-carte, S$11.90/meal) features a succulent prawn paste chicken leg sandwiched between two delicate handmade sesame buns, then topped with mayonnaise.

200 Victoria Street
#04-05, Bugis Junction
Singapore 188021
Tel: +65 6338 0135
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#4 GYOZA YA – MENTAIKO GYOZA & GARLIC RICE

Well-known for their inexpensive gyozas (Japanese meat dumplings) with convenient outlets in central Singapore, Gyoza Ya has upped the ante in the recent few months with variations of their pan-fried gyozas.

These selections include the Mentaiko Gyoza and the Cheese Gyoza (both S$7.80 for 5 pieces), which are best eaten with their individually portioned side of Garlic or Seafood rice (S$5.80 each) but we highly recommend sticking to the former as the garlic flavour is pleasantly poignant.

260 Orchard Road, Robinsons Orchard
The Heeren, B1-02A
Singapore 238855
Tel: +65 6737 5581
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

#5 HOB NOB CAFE BAR – FISH & CHIPS

Hob Nob is one of the several under-the-radar spots we love in Orchard Road. It is located on level three of Far East Shopping Mall – the one beside Wheelock, not the better-known Far East Plaza. The place is small, with only 8 tables that accommodate 25 people.

The food is simple, so don’t come here expecting fancy stuff. But if you want a decent meal in town without breaking the bank, Hob Nob might just become your new favourite place. Prices start from S$9.80 for a Fried Egg & Bacon Sandwich, to S$16.80 for Spaghetti Tom Yum Seafood. The Hob Nob Fish & Chips (S$11.80) is also worth a try.

Hob Nob is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s Top Budget Restaurants in Orchard Road.

#03-18/19, Far East Shopping Centre
545 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6734 0474
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#6 I WANT MY NOODLE – MY MUSHROOM NOODLE

I Want My Noodle is a local brand name that showcases their signature homemade springy egg noodles, served in a variety of different ways. We liked My Mushroom Noodle (S$7.90) for the inexpensive price tag and the overall taste of the noodles (dry is a better option) with their chilli sauce, served on the side.

There are other options such as the Double Roast Noodles which cost a little bit more but we can assure you that it is also worth the splurge. Only cash is accepted at this eatery so do make sure you have enough cash handy.

Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road
#03-14/15
Singapore 228208
Tel: +65 6235 2331
Daily: 10.45am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#7 NAKAJIMA SUISAN GRILLED FISH – SALMON TERIYAKI

Nakajima Suisan Grilled Fish at Takashimaya’s Japanese food court remains one of our favourite places to go for a good and affordable meal in Singapore. The prices of the set meals — choose from Salmon Teriyaki ($12.50) and Shio Saba ($7.50) — are pocket-friendly, and the food never fails us.

391A Orchard Road Basement 2
Takashimaya Food Hall Ngee Ann City
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

#8 RAMEN KEISUKE – TONKOTSU RAMEN

Small and unassuming, this ramen joint does not look one bit attractive. And if you do not have a keen sense of smell, you might just walk right past it. That would mean you are missing out on a bowl of very authentic Japanese ramen.

Tonkotsu is our top choice always, simply because no other broths can be as gratifying as a rich, creamy and oily pork broth. The good news is, Ramen Keisuke does a pretty mean bowl and it is only S$10.80 with free flow of hard-boiled eggs and bean sprouts!

#01-19 Orchid Hotel
1 Tras Street
Tel: +65 6636 0855
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#9 SAVEUR – DUCK CONFIT

People love Saveur because it offers cheap and decent French food. There’s a trade-off, though. Portions are very small, so you have to order more dishes to share.

Having said that, it is probably impossible to find another place that serves a good duck confit at $10. So, if you are on a budget, check out Saveurs. Remember to go early, or be prepared to queue.

Read: Guide To 11 Duck Confits To Try In Singapore.

5 Purvis Street, #01-04
Singapore 188584
Tel: 6333 3121
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.15pm
Sun: 12pm – 2.15pm, 6pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#10 SPIZZA MERCATO – PIZZA

Spizza Mercato at Capitol Piazza has a super affordable menu and a wide variety of pizzas (but of course), and what it is exceptionally popular during lunch for its amazing weekday lunch deals – S$12 for a dry pasta with classic sauce or a 10 inch pizza, anyone?

13 Stamford Road #B2-52
Capitol Piazza
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6702 1835
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

#11 THE WICKED GARLIC – SQUID INK LINGUINE

Previously housed in a coffee shop, The Wicked Garlic’s tremendous success has led them to move over to the Central Business District in International Plaza. The Wicked Garlic offers a good range of pastas, pizzas and risottos but we loved their Ling Nero Di Seppia (Squid Ink Linguine, S$8.70) the most.

Each strand of pasta is coated evenly in the tasty squid ink sauce and you have a choice to add in extra items such as prawns and bacon to enhance your dish or to suit your liking. For just a mere S$8, we’re definitely not complaining.

10 Anson Road
#01-37, International Plaza
Singapore 079903
Tel: +65 8509 2942
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 9pm
Sat: 11.30am – 8am
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#12 &SONS – GRILLED BEEF SIRLOIN STEAK

&SONS has lunch promotions every weekday that is just too good to resist. Their lunch menu items range from S$8 to S$12 and they feature a wide range of selections such as Pork Cheek Ragu Penne Pasta (S$9) and the ever popular Grilled Beef Sirloin Steak (S$12).

For a mere S$12, you get more than your money’s worth of a sirloin steak, cooked to your preferred doneness, a side of roasted potatoes & caramelised onions and salad. With an addition of S$2.50 – S$3, you can get yourself a cup of coffee or tea too.

Note: The main courses are only available for weekday lunch.

20 Cross Street
China Square Central, #01-19
Singapore 048422
Tel: +65 6221 3937
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 1am
Sat: 6pm – 2am
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer

#13 49 SEATS – CARBONARA PASTA

One of our favourite budget restaurants in Singapore, 49 Seats has gained a legion of supporters by keeping its fusion gourmet very affordable and accessible amidst the rising costs in this competitive industry.

While 49 Seats is known for its Tom Yum Pasta, the Carbonara (S$12.90), Beef Bolognaise (S$12.90), and Aglio Olio (S$10.90) are also worth trying. And best of all, there is no GST and service charge here.

49 Kreta Ayer Road
Singapore 089007
Mon to Thu: 6pm – 2am
Fri to Sat: 6pm – 5.30am
Tel: +65 6225 4332
Nearest Station: Outram Park

For more recommendations on where to eat, read our guide to 20 Inexpensive Restaurants in Singapore.