Christmas is definitely one of the best times to make merry with friends and family alike, and a scrumptious spread of a feast is something you absolutely cannot do without.

The time has come, once again, for the busiest yet most joyful period of the year! The holiday season is just around the corner, and we are sure that everyone is busy scrambling over presents, party arrangements as well as making Christmas dinner plans.

Are you racking your brains over where to have your Christmas dinner with your loved ones?

This year, Novotel Singapore on Stevens and Mercure Singapore on Stevens are pulling out all the stops to offer a series of dining options for the annual year-end celebrations from November to December 2018 to create a memorable Christmas for everyone.

Located on level 2 of the relatively new hotel is Food Exchange. Treat yourselves to their daily lunch buffet starting from $42++ and daily dinner buffet starting from S$68++ per adult,  while Fudebar’s Festive Takeaways offers free delivery for orders above S$200, if not otherwise is only S$30 regardless of location. To make this Christmas even sweeter, book before 14 December 2018 to enjoy 25% Early Bird Discount off Buffet at Food Exchange.

The team has prepared a sensational holiday spread that’s absolute value-for-money. Indulge in Food Exchange’s daily Festive Buffet lunch and dinner, with their 4 main special highlights available at Fudebar—Traditional Roast Turkey, Roast Ribeye Beef, Salmon Coulibiac and Honey Studded Gammon Ham.

You’ll also be glad to know that these highlights are also part of Fudebar’s Festive Takeaways, so you can host the perfect dinner in the comfort of your own home.

The restaurant boasts of a gorgeous, spacious interior that is perfect for gatherings with your loved ones, no matter how big or small the group. You can also opt for alfresco dining and enjoy the sights from their scenic infinity pool while you feast on their sumptuous buffet.

And as far as buffets are concerned, you can expect freshness, quality and variety offered. It encompasses all sorts of chef’s signatures that fuse together a medley of Singaporean, Indian, European cuisine and more. There are even fresh sashimi and seafood on ice and hot cooking stations that serve up a myriad of roasted meats, freshly made popiah and many many more.

HONEY STUDDED GAMMON HAM

Perhaps one of the biggest hunks of ham we’ve ever seen, this isn’t just any regular honey-baked ham. Each carved slice of ham is an honest chunk of goodness condensed in its purest form that even your kids would scramble to have more of. It comes along with garden vegetables, mashed potatoes and roasted pineapples for that pop of fresh sweetness.

Honey Studded Gammon Ham is also available for Festive Takeaways at S$88 nett.

ROAST RIBEYE BEEF

Like any other good feast, you can’t go wrong with beef. This 5kg roast can be considered a flavour powerhouse, bursting with its natural beef juices. Let your senses take flight with how tender it is with its gorgeously pink interior.

So, go on. Help yourself to as many slices as you can!

This Roast Ribeye Beef (approx. 5kg) served with garden vegetables, rosemary roasted potatoes, mash potatoes and natural jus is available for takeaway at $98 nett.

SALMON COULIBIAC

Salmon aficionados will definitely not want to miss out on Food Exchange’s amazing Salmon Coulibiac. A massive slab of fresh, moist salmon is encased in a perfectly crisp, golden-brown pastry and is baked to absolute perfection.

The salmon is accompanied by tarragon beurre blanc, garden vegetables as well as mashed potatoes.

The Salmon Coulibiac is also available for Festive Takeaways at S$98 nett.

TRADITIONAL ROAST TURKEY

Weighing in at approximately 6kg, this eye-catching table centrepiece is served with turkey stuffing, brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and turkey gravy. Be blown away by the incredibly moist and succulent roast turkey. If your mouth wasn’t already watering while watching the chef make a show out of carving the meat, a mouthful slathered with the hearty turkey jus would be enough to change your perception of dry turkey meat.

Traditional Roast Turkey is available for Festive Takeaways at S$128 nett.

HOT LINE

From North Indian tandoori selection with glorious chutneys and curries to local delights (including, but not limited to seafood stir-fry beehoon, chilli crab, satays and laksa), you’d be left spoilt for choice. We’d definitely recommend grabbing some of the Mutton Masala and Cereal Prawns for the ultimate feasting experience.

SEAFOOD ON ICE

If there’s an obvious indicator that accurately showcases the standard of a buffet restaurant, it would definitely be their live seafood offerings. In terms of the freshness and quality, Food Exchange is definitely not one to disappoint.

Tuck into a sizeable variety of crustaceans and shellfish from snow crabs, prawns, mussels and scallops, or help yourself to the salmon gravlax that’s presented next to a whole fresh salmon.

DESSERTS

Remember to save some space for their artisanal desserts, all of which are perfectly sized into tiny bite-sized portions so you can sample the entire lineup available. While they’ve got classics such as chocolate eclairs and cupcakes, the one you cannot do without has to be their durian with sponge cake, which was the most decadent way to end our meal with.

Suddenly Christmas feels too far away, and we completely understand that feeling. Fortunately, the wait isn’t long as both the Festive Takeaway and Festive Buffet start on the 15th of November and will go on till the 31st of December. Remember to book before 14th December 2018 to enjoy 25% Early Bird Discount off Buffet at Food Exchange as an extra Christmas gift to yourself.

Christmas doesn’t really get any better than this, so whether it’s to snag an eye-catching dinner centrepiece or to stuff yourself silly with so many enticing eats, you’d have to be crazy to pass off this opportunity.  So come and celebrate Christmas with Novotel Singapore on Stevens and Mercure Singapore on Stevens!

Fudebar Festive Takeaway
Period: 15th November 2018 – 31st December 2018

To order, email h9543-FB11@accor.com.

All prices are inclusive of service charge and government taxes. Delivery charge of $30 per location applies. Complimentary delivery for orders $200 and above. All orders must be made at least 24 hours in advance.

Food Exchange Festive Buffet
Period: 15th November 2018 – 1st January 2019

Weekday Buffet Lunch, Monday – Friday, 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm $42++
Saturday Buffet Lunch, Saturday, 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm $52++
Sunday Buffet Brunch, Sunday, 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm $88++

Daily Buffet Dinner, Monday – Sunday, 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm $68++

Christmas Pricing
Christmas Eve Dinner, 24th December 2018, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm $88++
Christmas Eve Dinner, 24th December 2018, 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm $88++
Christmas Day Brunch, 25th December 2018, 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm $88++

New Year Pricing
New Year Eve Dinner, 31st December 2018, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm $98++
New Year Eve Dinner, 31st December 2018, 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm $98++
New Year Day Brunch, 1st January 2019, 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm $98++

To book a table, visit www.foodexchange.sg.

Food Exchange
Novotel Singapore on Stevens
28 Stevens Road
#01-01, Singapore 257878
Tel: +65 6491 6100
Nearest Station: Orchard/ Stevens

This post is brought to you by Novotel Singapore on Stevens and Mercure Singapore on Stevens. 

Festive seasons are always the best excuse to go for an indulgent treat with your loved ones because that is when restaurants curate seasonal menus to celebrate the best of the season’s offering.

Featuring a multitude of expert culinary offerings and feasts fit for all kinds of celebrations, Marina Bay Sands is ushering in this festive season with a diverse spread of cuisines from more than 10 signature restaurants. Now when it comes to gourmet dining at Marina Bay Sands, you can be sure of fine food, excellent wine and without a doubt, plenty of festive cheer!

This Christmas, look forward to a host of exciting gastronomic experiences at these award-winning dining establishments.

#1 ADRIFT BY DAVID MYERS

Helmed by Celebrity Chef David Myers and his team of master chefs, Adrift takes on a modern approach of an izakaya, using Californian ingredients to whip up Asian-inspired recipes.

From now till 30 Dec, indulge in the share plate (S$198++) of Dry Aged Australian OP Rib On The Bone which is cooked over Binchotan charcoal and topped with red miso. The sharing platter also features other seasonal accompaniments such as Japanese potato salad, house tsukemono pickles, gem lettuce and fragrant seaweed rice. Perfect for a group of four!

Otherwise, celebrate New Year’s Eve with the six-course Adrift Tasting menu (S$288++) paired with special cocktails, champagne and wines. Highlights on the menu include Charred Octopus and Kagoshima Wagyu A4. Party your way into 2018 with 3 hours of free-flow champagne, wines, beers and spirits at S$128++.

Marina Bay Sands
Hotel Lobby Tower 2
Tel: +65 6688 5657

#2 BREAD STREET KITCHEN BY GORDON RAMSAY

Have a classic English Christmas from 5 Dec to 25 Dec with a weekend two-course ‘Breakfast & Brunch’ menu (S$49++) or a festive three-course dinner menu (S$95++), with favourites including traditional roasted turkey, pigs in blanket and cranberry relish.

Come New Year’s Eve, Bread Street Kitchen will be unveiling a four-course dinner menu that will showcase its signature Beef Wellington with black truffle mash, glazed carrots, seasonal greens and red wine jus (S$150++ for first seating; S$215++ for second seating).

Opt for the second seating and be treated with the hourly fireworks on the bay and also enjoy a glass of wine with your dinner!

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
L1-81, Bay Level
Tel: +65 6688 5665

#3 CLUB55

Located on the 55th floor of Marina Bay Sands, Club55 boasts panoramic views of the skyline and sea from 55 stories up.

Just for this Christmas Eve, Club55 has a special buffet spread (S$168++ for adults, S$68++ for children) that will please all palates—there is a seafood bar on ice and a spread of mains in the likes of Roasted Lamb Rack with mustard jus and Black Angus Beef 150-200 days Tomahawk with Shallot Jus.

Club55 is a vantage point for fireworks display and it is one of the best places to usher in the New Year. Delight in Club55’s New Year’s Eve buffet dinner (S$248++ per pax) and have a taste of the Honey-Balsamico Glazed Spanish Pork Leg and Poached William Pear with Champagne Sabayon among others. Guests can top up S$48++ for free-flow champagne the entire night!

Marina Bay Sands
Level 55, Hotel Tower 2
Tel: +65 6688 8858

#4 CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK

For Christmas, partake in CUT’s Christmas Eve menu (S$500++ for four) featuring notable dishes such as U.S.D.A. Prime, Illinois Corn Fed Bone-in Rib Eye Steak aged for 21 days and Mini Kobe Sliders.

New Year’s Eve at CUT will see you indulging in prime cuts in the form of Red Poll Ribeye dry aged for 45 days and Big Eye Tuna Tartare with Wasabi aioli and Togarashi crisps with tosa soy.

For the first time ever, the steak restaurant is serving a New Year’s Day Brunch (S$175++) and you can bet that it is spectacular, and the perfect cure for any hangover!. Feast on premium American Wagyu Sirloin Steak and Eggs with roasted Fingerling potato and watercress salad. There will also be a dessert trolley with a curated selection of house-made pastries and free-flow alcohol.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
B1-71, Galleria Level
Tel: +65 6688 8517

#5 DB BISTRO & OYSTER BAR BY DANIEL BOULUD

Ring in Christmas with this contemporary French bistro’s four-course Christmas Eve menu (S$165++ per pax) that comes with top-quality seafood—Oscietra Caviar, King Crab Salad, Chilean Seabass “Black & White” with black truffles and more.

From now to 25 Dec, pamper your family and loved ones with the classic Bûche de Noël (S$50+) log cake which is available for takeaway. Available in both Chocolate Praline and Coconut Mango flavours, these handcrafted French roulades make great gifts to bring along to a festive gathering.

Have a taste of Celebrity Chef Daniel Boulud’s signature “Black Tie” Scallops and Champagne Rose Floating Garden, which are part of the five-course New Year’s Eve menu at S$198++. Guests can choose to go for sommelier wine-pairing for both festive menus (S$75++).

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
B1-48, Galleria Level
Tel: +65 6688 8525

#6 OSTERIA MOZZA BY NANCY SILVERTON

Osteria Mozza is a reflection of Chef Nancy Silverton’s love for Italian cuisine and the restaurant is best known for its largest variety of fresh handmade pastas daily and its free standing mozzarella bar.

Go Italian this Christmas with their two-day only six-course tasting menu (S$188++). You must try the Tortellini in Brodo with white truffle and Cavatelli with winter squash and sage.

Treat your palate to a hearty five-course dinner (S$188++) as you welcome the New Year by savouring authentic Italian dishes such as the Shrimp Ravioli with Vermouth and fine herbs, and the Lobster ‘Fra Diavolo’ with white wine, garlic, chili, tomato and fresh herbs.

Pair your meal with full-bodied Riserva wine to make it all the better (S$120++).

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
B1-42-46, Galleria Level
Tel: +65 6688 8522

#7 RISE

Enjoy a spread of holiday fare at RISE Restaurant, an all-day dining restaurant with an impressive international buffet known for its sustainable seafood and adjacent herb garden.

On Christmas Eve and Christmas, the live stations will be cooking up a storm with Christmas classics such as the Ravioli with black truffle shavings, Honey glazed ham with pineapple sauce and Traditional roasted turkey.

The celebrations continue on to New Year’s Eve, where you will be treated to a mouthwatering array of dishes including Spanish baby pig Balinese style and Salmon coulibiac with champagne sauce.

Rise Festive Pricing
15-17 & 22-23 Dec S$68 (Lunch) S$88 (Dinner)
CHILD S$25 (Lunch) S$38 (Dinner)

24 Dec S$72 (Lunch) S$128 (Dinner)
CHILD S$25 (Lunch) S$58 (Dinner)

25 Dec BRUNCH S$158
S$198 (free-flow champagne, craft beer, sommelier’s selection wines, juices & soft drinks)
S$368 (premium free-flow Piper Rare champagne, speciality cocktails, craft beer, sommelier’s selection wines, juices & soft drinks)
DINNER S$118
CHILD S$58

29-30 Dec S$68 (Lunch) S$88 (Dinner)
CHILD S$25 (Lunch) S$38 (Dinner)

31 Dec S$72 (Lunch) S$148 (Dinner)
CHILD S$25 (Lunch) S$58 (Dinner)

1 Jan BRUNCH S$158
$198 (free-flow champagne, craft beer, sommelier’s selection wines, juices & soft drinks)
S$368 (premium free-flow Piper Rare champagne, speciality cocktails, craft beer, sommelier’s selection wines, juices & soft drinks)
DINNER S$98
CHILD S$48

Marina Bay Sands
Hotel Lobby, Tower 1
Tel: +65 6688 5525

#8 SPAGO BY WOLFGANG PUCK

Perched on Sands SkyPark, Spago is Celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck’s second restaurant at Marina Bay Sands showcasing Californian cuisine.

If you are looking for something extra special to spice up the festive season, start your night at the Spago Dining Room with a four-course Christmas menu (S$195++) and three or four-course New Year’s Eve menu (from S$250++) which will exceed your expectations. Some creations to take note of are the Black Truffle Veal Filet Mignon Tartare and the signature Pan Seared Red Snapper “Laksa”.

Then head next door to Spago’s Bar and Lounge for their Royal Countdown New Year’s Eve Party (S$99++ cover charge inclusive of a glass of Champagne) where guests can have bar bites and cocktails at the al fresco bar while enjoying the mesmerising fireworks display.

Minimum spend applies for table reservations.

Marina Bay Sands
Sands SkyPark, Tower 2 Level 57
Tel: +65 6688 9955

#9 THE BIRD SOUTHERN TABLE & BAR

On 24 and 25 Dec, the festive season is in full swing and you get to enjoy a delicious platter of Chicken Fried Turkey, Green Bean Casserole, Pumpkin Tiramisu with Almond Biscotti (S$48++).

Usher in 2018 with the New Year’s Eve three-course menu (S$98++) which includes a glass of prosecco with festive specials such as Uni Baked King Crab, a choice of Fried Chicken and Caviar or Bone-in Short Rib, and Red Velvet Trifle. The restaurant’s bar is by the waterfront so you can head up after for more tipple as you enjoy the hourly fireworks!

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
B1-07, Galleria Level
Tel: +65 6688 9959

#10 THE BAR AT WAKU GHIN BY TETSUYA WAKUDA

Dedicated to the art of Japanese cocktail, The Bar at Waku Ghin welcomes you as you enter Celebrity Chef Tetsuya Wakuda’s two Michelin-starred restaurant.

Their festive bar bites menu (S$200++ per person) caters to two pax and it features six premium dishes with star dishes such as Aburi Tasmanian Ocean Trout with a hint of chilli and Japanese Ohmi Wagyu from Shiga prefecture with wasabi and citrus soy.

Available on Christmas Eve and Day, and New Year’s Eve and Day from 5pm to 10pm, this is the ideal dining destination for couples or those looking for an intimate setting for dinner.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
L2-01, Level 2 Dining
Tel: +65 6688 8507

This post is brought to you by Marina Bay Sands.

If a yuletide celebration does not mean turkeys and log cakes, then Mitzo’s Holiday Champagne Brunch should tempt you.

If you are searching for an elegant venue to spend Christmas Day in or to usher into 2017, we highly recommend our all-time favourite Chinese restaurant and it is none other than Mitzo Restaurant & Bar at Grand Park Orchard.

Most of you are already familiar with Mitzo’s spectacular Weekend Dim Sum Brunch—where you can indulge in seafood supreme dishes and unlimited portions of gourmet dim sum and an option of free-flow champagne, selected cocktails, wines and beer. It is truly the Holy Grail of Chinese fine dining!

Say hello to Mitzo’s Holiday Champagne Brunch—which is essentially an amplified version of the current Weekend Dim Sum Brunch this festive. This Champagne Brunch features over 40 types of dishes and it is one luxurious treat you deserve.

If you have never dined at Mitzo before, it is about time you give this stellar establishment a shot. Trust us, you will only regret not visiting Mitzo earlier.

The fancy Chinese restaurant is helmed by Executive Head Chef Nicky Ng, whose previous stints include the honourable role of Executive Chef de Cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurant Hakkasan in New York City.

The Holiday Champagne Brunch is available from 11.30am to 2.30pm on the following dates: 24, 25, 31 Dec 2016 and 01 Jan 2017.

This 3-hour feast boasts an impressive selection of sweet and savoury items. There are over 40 varieties, so be prepared to be beyond spoilt for choice.

A few dishes are making an appearance exclusively for this holiday brunch only, namely Crispy Soft Shell Crab with Curry Floss, Deep-fried Lobster Claw wrapped with Salted Egg Puff, Steamed Scallop in Hollandaise Sauce and more.

“Mitzo’s Holiday Champagne Brunch offers 40 varieties of sweet and savoury dishes. Indulge in seafood supreme dishes, gourmet dim sum and unlimited portions of Mitzo’s Special Barbecue Pork.” 

Most epicureans may argue that seafood should always be served as is, but Mitzo’s deep-fried crustaceans might just change your mind about that.

Kudos to the A-team for achieving the impossible; the soft shell crab and lobster claw remains oh-so-tender despite being deep-fried. The curry floss and salted egg puff are incredibly light and make it easy to chomp through.

Mitzo is renowned for their Special Barbecue Pork and guess what? This signature dish is still part of the Holiday Champagne Brunch. FREE-FLOW, GUYS.

We still vividly recall our very first time savouring this divine char siew; fork-tender roasted pork coated with a crisp caramel which melts in your mouth. We had it way too many times, and if any, we are only loving it more and more.

The spread also includes Mitzo’s specialty roasts, wok dishes, a plethora of supreme seafood delights and the usual handcrafted dim sum such as charcoal liu sha baos and royal shrimp dumplings.

This all-you-can-eat fiesta costs S$88++ per adult and the price includes a choice of one glass of beer, champagne or wine.

While the cocktail and dim sum pairing might sound strange to first-timers, we have learnt to relish this intriguing concept. This unorthodox combination sure does grow on us like what a cheese and wine pairing does!

Which brings to our next point—top up S$60++ to enjoy free flow beers, champagne, wines and artisanal cocktails.

Should buffets not entice you, perhaps you may want to consider the two other 5-course Festive Set Menus instead. The Festive Merriment I and Festive Merriment II are priced at S$88++ and S$118++ per pax respectively.

There is a nominal top-up of S$30++ for two cocktails.

The Festive Merriment I Set showcases the Festive Steamed Dim Sum Platter (which comprises Steamed Lobster Har Gow, Scallop Dumpling and Chicken Dumpling topped with Shaved Truffles), Double-boiled Maka with Clam and Chicken, Braised Abalone and Asparagus King Prawn Skewers, Steamed Rice served with Truffle Wagyu Beef and Champagne Jelly.

On the other hand, Festive Merriment II includes a Festive Platter (which consists of Mitzo Special Barbecued Pork and Crispy Soft Shell Crab wrapped with Salted Egg Charcoal Puff), Double-boiled Abalone Soup with Winter Melon, Pork Ribs and Lotus Leaf, Steamed Live Boston Lobster, Poached Noodles topped with Pork Ribs and Champagne Jelly.

The oriental Champagne Jelly dessert is served in a gorgeous spherical glass, and contains refreshing rose tea crush and lychee caviar that explodes instantaneously in your mouth and topped off with edible flowers; no less!

For those who prefer to order from the a la carte menus, you will be pleased to know that the Festive Steamed Dim Sum Platter (S$38++), Steamed Live Boston Lobster (S$68++) and Champagne Jelly (S$18++) are also available as a la carte options.

Mitzo is also launching two festive tipples Yuletide Cheers and The Magic Julep during this festive period (between 10 Dec 2016 to 01 Jan 2017).

The Yuletide Cheers is a mixture of prosecco, whisky infused with chamomile tea, lemon juice, apple-rose syrup and topped with redcurrant foam. Whereas the Magic Julep is a concoction of egg white, passion fruit juice, lemon juice and rum infused with cinnamon and garnished with campari sugar and mint leaves.

The festive cocktails are available on the ala carte menu or part of pairing options of the set menu.

Mitzo Restaurant & Bar
Level 4 Grand Park Orchard
270 Orchard Road
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8855
Sun to Wed: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 1am
Thu to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

Holiday Champagne Brunch
24, 25, 31 Dec 2016 and 01 Jan 2017: 11.30am – 2.30pm
S$88++ per person (incl. choice of 1 glass of champagne, beer or wine)
S$148++ per person (incl. free flow champagne, cocktails, beers and wines)

Festive Merriment I (for parties of 2 or more)
10 to 31 Dec 2016: Lunch and dinner
S$88++ per person (food only); $118++ per person (food with 2 cocktails pairing)

Festive Merriment II (for parties of 2 or more)
S$108+ per person (food only); $138++ per person (food with 2 cocktails pairing)

This post is brought to you by Mitzo Restaurant & Bar.

We’ve tried many turkeys for Christmas this year, but Plaza Brasserie’s rendition is hands down the best that we’ve had in Singapore. Ever since we sampled Executive Chef Jackson’s and Executive Sous Chef Ken’s tantalising roasts during For The Love of Roasts Buffet - PARKROYAL on Beach Road’s inaugural presentation of a buffet that is centered around tantalising roasts and exotic meats – we have no doubt that the duo can cook their meat really well.

So we were really excited to try their Christmas Buffet because of the various meats that are part of the Christmas lineup. The highlight is without a doubt the aforementioned traditional roast turkey, but equally good is the Hungarian Mangalica Pork – making its debut at Plaza Brasserie this year. Also, you can get two Boston Lobsters (weighing 500g each) at just S$38++ during the festive promotion every day from 12 to 31 Dec 2014.

We share with you the various meats that you cannot miss the world for, and yes, they are available for takeaways too. Oh, have you seen strawberry snowmen too? Too cute to be true, but we are all prey to such Instagram-worthy desserts, isn’t it?

Here are the reasons to celebrate Christmas at Plaza Brasserie, PARKROYAL on Beach Road! Have a very merry Christmas!

#1 THE BEST ROAST TURKEY WE’VE HAD FOR CHRISTMAS IN SINGAPORE THIS YEAR

The Traditional Roast Turkey stuffed with Sausage Meat, chestnut and mushroom is handled with complete tender loving care. The result of the chefs’ understanding of meat treatment and immaculate grasp of temperatures is an extremely moist and tender turkey, with its sweetness still retained, and juicy with every bite. And you would know that ‘moist’ and ‘tender’ are not words that are frequently apt to describe turkey. You can just imagine how our lives were changed since the first bite.

But the turkey is not the only highlight, of course. Also starring in the Plaza Brasserie’s Christmas Buffet is the Hungarian Mangalica Pork Roast.

#2 THE TO-DIE-FOR HUNGARIAN MANGALICA PORK ROAST – THE ‘KOBE BEEF’ OF PORK

The Mangalitsa pig, for the uninitiated, is one of the oldest European breeds and after nearly facing extinction; it has been making a surprising but definitely welcoming comeback in high-end restaurants. Prized for its fatty and well-marbled meat, it is the king of the pigs – the kobe beef of pork, if we must.

Plaza Brasserie will be serving the Hungarian Mangalica Pork during its Festive and Christmas Buffets in the month of December! The prized pork truly lives up to its name, and the chefs’ skills in preparation no less. You may wonder if any special seasoning went in to complement the pork, but no, it is purely the brilliant controlling of temperatures and heat, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. And voila, you’ve got a to-die-for dish that is up on the carving station. All you can eat, so you know what to do, right?

#3 GET TWO BOSTON LOBSTERS (500G EACH) AT A CRAZY PRICE OF S$38++

The lobster roll trend has hit our shores this year, and while we love lobsters, it can be quite a hit – literally – on our wallets. Most places that serve lobster rolls in Singapore are charging at least S$30 for a roll that comes with a measly 100g of lobster meat. If you want one that comes with 500g of meat, be prepared to pay at least S$45 to S$50.

What if we tell you that you can get TWO Boston lobsters (weighing 500g each) at a ridiculously unbelievable price of S$38++? We are not kidding. When you go for Plaza Brasserie’s Christmas Dinner Buffet, you can do an optional top-up for a serving of two Boston lobsters that are baked ala minute and drizzled with two sauce choices – black pepper, or onions with white pepper. S$38++ for two Boston lobsters is a steal and we still cannot get over how good a deal this is.

This promotion is available at Plaza Brasserie’s Christmas Dinner Buffet every day from 12 Dec 2014 to 1 Jan 2015.

#4 HONEY GLAZED HAM WITH PINEAPPLE AND CRANBERRY SAUCE

So we are lovers of honey glazed hams; well, what are Christmases without these porky goodness? Plaza Brasserie’s version is nothing overly greasy or fatty. It is not sickly salty too, so you won’t have to feel bad about eating that additional slice.

Dunk the thick chunk into the homemade pineapple or cranberry sauce, because happiness can be so simple.

#5 INSTAGRAM THIS – STRAWBERRY SNOWMEN

Because a photo speaks a thousand words, right? Grab your cameras, head to the dessert section, and shoot your own version. We promise it will get you so many likes.

#6 PARKROYAL ON BEACH ROAD’S FIRST EVER CHRISTMAS DAY BRUNCH AT THE BALLROOMS

This year, PARKROYAL on Beach Road will be having its first ever Christmas Day Brunch at The Ballrooms – the hotel’s latest function space. Decked with glittery chandeliers, the hall has a modern and elegant setting. The kids will get their own Kid’s Zone in the adjacent Sky Ballroom which comes with a mini kid’s buffet. In addition, there will be a cupcake decorating competition for children from 4 to 12 years old.

#7 AND MANY MORE FOR CHRISTMAS TAKEAWAYS

So we feast at both sides – at home, and in restaurants, right? Santa will approve the idea, and even more so if you do your takeaways from Plaza Brasserie (available from 12 Dec 2014 to 1 Jan 2015). Sure, takeaway options are aplenty, but we trust that one buffet session alone at Plaza Brasserie won’t suffice. How often do we get flavourful meats and awesome turkeys? Certainly not every day, and that is why we need to “stock up” for supper.

Well, the idea of watching soccer and eating Roast Mangalica Pork is brilliant, yes? The Roast Mangalica Pork Collar Butt is available at S$88 for a 1.5kg serving. And how about the best Roast Turkey (S$108/4kg) too? If you need your beef fix, then the Premium Roast Beef ($138/1kg) is for you. Some Honey Baked Ham ($78/1.5kg) too, perhaps?

And there is always room for desserts. If you want a classic log cake, you have the Chocolate/Vanilla Christmas Log Cake (S$58/1kg) that is also part of the takeaway galore.

Festive Lunch Buffet from 12 to 30 Dec 2014
(*excluding 24, 25 and 31 Dec 2014, and 1 Jan 2015)
Daily: Adult S$45, Child S$27

Festive Dinner Buffet from 12 to 30 Dec 2014
(*excluding 24, 25 and 31 Dec 2014, and 1 Jan 2015)
Mon to Thu: Adult S$60, Child S$36 / Fri to Sun: Adult S$65, Child S$39

Christmas Eve Buffet 24 Dec 2014
Lunch: Adult S$45 Child S$27 / Dinner: Adult S$88 Child SS$53

Christmas Day Buffet 25 Dec 2014
Lunch: Adult S$68 Child S$41 / Dinner: Adult S$68 Child SS$41

Christmas Day Brunch at The Ballrooms 25 Dec 2014
Brunh: Adult S$88 Child S$53

New Year’s Eve Buffet 31 Dec 2014
Lunch: Adult S$45 Child S$27 / Dinner: Adult S$78 Child SS$47

New Year’s Buffet 1 Jan 2015
Lunch: Adult S$60 Child S$36 / Dinner: Adult S$60 Child SS$36

ANZ, BOC, DBS, Diner’s Club, HSBC, Maybank, NTUC, OCBC and UOB credit card members enjoy the following discount:
- 15% off festive lunch/dinner buffet from 12 to 30 Dec 2014, except for 24 and 25 Dec
- 15% off festive lunch/dinner buffet on 24, 25, 31 Dec 2014 and 1 Jan 2015*
- 15% off festive takeaways from 12 Dec 2014 to 1 Jan 2015

(Prior reservation is required and full payment to be made by 18 December 2014. Seats are subject to availability with priority given to full payment received on a first-come-first-served basis.)

For more details, go to PARKROYAL on Beach Road’s website, and like them on facebook.

Plaza Brasserie
PARKROYAL on Beach Road
7500 Beach Road, Level One
Tel: +65 6505 5710
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Email: dining.prsin@parkroyalhotels.com

This post is brought to you by PARKROYAL on Beach Road. 

No matter how much we love novelty, no matter how we always crave for something fresh and new, we are all of us creatures of familiarity, and some things/ places/ people just warm our hearts whenever we revisit them.

Seasonal Tastes at The Westin Singapore is one of them. Every return feels like going home, and we really do not mind dining there regularly because the chefs promise different experiences. The buffet line is ever-changing, with new items to excite your taste buds, and if there is something in particular that you are looking for, just let them know and they will try their best to satisfy that craving.

So, December is a special month. How can we miss out on Christmas treats at Seasonal Tastes? We heard the team had worked so hard to come up with menus that reflect the true traditions of Christmas, and we were really stoked to taste.

And boy, did they not disappoint! Indeed one of our best-loved places for buffets. Here are the various line-ups from the Christmas buffets at Seasonal Tastes, The Westin Singapore [ thewestinsingapore.com/christmasatthebay ] to expect. We are pretty sure your date will be impressed.

CHRISTMAS EVE LUNCH BUFFET

Eat away with your loved ones at Seasonal Tastes’ Christmas Eve Lunch Buffet. In addition to the regular buffet lineup, there will be festive dishes such as Pineapple-Glazed Ham, Spiced Pumpkin Pie and Snowy White Forest Yule Log.

You know what we really love? Traditional delights like the Spiced Pumpkin Pie that comforts the soul. Elegantly smooth and with a hint of spice, it is one item that we couldn’t stop at one serving. The sweetness of fresh pumpkin lingers and leaves you for more…

CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER BUFFET

Highlights of Seasonal Tastes’ Christmas Eve Dinner buffet include Lobster Au Gratin, 90-day Angus Grain-Fed Prime Rib, Goose Liver Terrine, Pan-fried Goose Liver, and an extensive selection of seafood including snow crabs, oysters, live prawns, deep-sea scallops, lobsters and crabs.

We’ve said it before and we will say it again: Seasonal Tastes has one of the most impressive dessert buffets in town and it is one that always has us looking forward. For Christmas, the pastry chef and her team will be baking Classic Christmas Yule Log, Christmas Cupcake, as well as a ‘live’ gingerbread DIY station to add to the dessert shrine. Don’t forget to get a scoop of our favourite avocado gelato, too!

CHRISTMAS DAY BRUNCH BUFFET

Wake up to Christmas and continue the feast with Christmas Day Brunch Buffet. From Prawn Thermidor and Salmon Feast (salmon prepared in four different ways: smoked, Thai cured, coffee cured, Chinese herbs), there will be plenty of food and champagne going around. Diet can wait while we celebrate Christmas. ‘Tis the season to be jolly, right?

The carnivores can indulge in a selection of the finest cuts – Angus Beef Tenderloin, Rib Eye, Striploin, T-bone Steak… Huh, what diet?

And what’s an even better idea? Book a staycation at The Westin Singapore during Christmas so that you can have as much champagne as you want and take a nap on The Westin’s Heavenly Bed after Christmas brunch. Yes, you are welcome.

THE WESTIN SINGAPORE’S CHRISTMAS TURKEY & TAKEAWAYS 2014

The good people at The Westin Singapore are really going all out to feed us. For Christmas Day Dinner Buffet, look forward to Whole Baked Snapper, Apple Honey-Glazed Turkey served with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables, chestnut, and Classic Christmas Panettone.

New Executive chef Aaron Foster has just joined the team at The Westin Singapore and his cooking philosophy – to make food simple, and to allow the ingredients to shine through honest cooking to bring out the best flavours – is clearly shown in Seasonal Tastes’ Christmas menu this year.

Who would have thought that simple potatoes and brussel sprouts could be so addictive? Look out for Chef Aaron’s specials like the vegetarian potato gratin that is a sinful indulgent of layered potatoes with butter and cheese, and the brussel sprouts salad that is tossed in white wine vinaigrette with cheese.

And of course, you’ve got your turkey that is beautifully roasted and very tender.

THE WESTIN SINGAPORE’S CHRISTMAS TURKEY & TAKEAWAYS 2014

And for those who are throwing parties at home, the Christmas creations are available for takeaways; you know how to surprise your guests. From 1 to 25 December 2014, The Westin Singapore has prepared a lineup of tantalising festive dishes – the Traditional Apple-glazed Turkey (S$135/6-7kg) served with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables; Pineapple-glazed Ham (S$120/2kg); Slow-roasted Lamb Leg with Herbs (S$120/2kg); Classic Christmas Yule Log (S$58/1kg); Snowy White Forest Chocolate Yule Log (S$60/1kg); and Traditional English Fruit Cake (S$$65/1kg).

And in case you need more gift ideas, The Westin Singapore is also offering 5 different Christmas hampers (S$100 – S$350). For more information on the Christmas takeaway and hampers, please visit thewestinsingapore.com/christmasatthebay, email restaurant.reservation@westin.com.

24 December 2014
Lunch: Adult $42++, Child (aged 5 – 12 years old) $21++
Dinner: Adult $178++* and $148++, Child (aged 5 – 12 years old) $74++

*inclusive of free-flow of champagne, beer, wines and soft drinks

25 December 2014
Brunch: Adult $178++* and $148++, Child (aged 5 – 12 years old) $74++
Dinner: Adult $178++* and $148++, Child (aged 5 – 12 years old) $74++

*inclusive of free-flow of champagne, beer, wines and soft drinks

For the latest updates, go to The Westin Singapore’s website, ‘like’ The Westin Singapore on facebook, and follow them on Instagram.

Seasonal Tastes
32/F The Westin Singapore
Asia Square Tower 2
12 Marina View
Mon to Sat Lunch Buffet: 12pm – 2.30pm
Mon to Sun Dinner Buffet: 6.30pm – 10pm
Sunday Champagne Brunch: 12pm – 3pm
Nearest Station: Downtown/Marina Bay

This post is brought to you by The Westin Singapore.

Are we already in December? Time slips by when we are having fun, but we should really take a little breather, slow down and savour the remaining moments of 2014. Bonuses are coming in, Christmas is round the corner, and soon before we know it, we’d be counting down to a new year.

What are your plans for the yuletide festivities? Have you started feasting already?

If you haven’t had an idea, we have (more) suggestions on how to pamper your taste buds. Well, we always do, and this time, it is at one of our favourite hotels no less. Be enraptured in all the warmth of festivities at PARKROYAL on Pickering, and spend the lasts of 2014 with traditional goodies in the lush iconic urban resort.

Sitting adjacent to the historic Hong Lim Park, PARKROYAL on Pickering is fast becoming the icon of Chinatown. Its award-winning architecture is a sheer sight to behold, with greenery in abundance, and charming cascading plants that caress the building so mysteriously yet beautifully. And what lies beneath is a supremely gorgeous restaurant-in-a-garden that we fall in love with over and over again.

There’s always something very inviting about Lime Restaurant at PARKROYAL on Pickering, it makes us feel all warm and cozy like we’re coming home for Christmas. We always love a good meal there, and even more so when the culinary team helmed by Executive Chef Vijayakant is all geared up to pamper us with their bests for the year-end celebrations.

And here are some of our picks from PARKROYAL on Pickering’s festive menu 2014 – some for a scrumptious dinner at Lime, and some to take home to host our guests with the best party food.

From 12th to 23rd December 2014 and 26th to 30th December 2014, dine at Lime and receive a complimentary glass of Limeade – the signature mocktail and our perfect blend. The little ones get a cup each too.

Starring perennial Christmas favourites, Lime’s impressive buffet repertoire will include Lobster Bisque Soup, Roasted Turkey, US Prime Ribs, and our favourite Honey Baked Ham.

Now, this is hands down the BEST ham we have had this year. Nothing comes close to Lime’s rendition – the skin is coated with a copious amount of honey, then baked to a mild crisp, leaving a mild sweetness that complements the saltiness of the ham. It is like a perfect marriage of taste, and one that lingers in the mouth (and the minds). One serving is definitely not enough to satisfy!

And why, the duck confit with pan-seared foie gras is too lovely to be missed too! If any, we cannot resist a good foie gras that is pan-seared to perfection, with a beautiful crisp that cocoons the warmest creaminess. That’s why we really appreciate Lime’s ala minute stations. The passionate chefs are ever ready to whip up hearty dishes for your gastronomical muses.

There are many variations of yule logs in the market, but locals will dig Lime’s presentation – Durian Mousse with Vanilla Buttercream Log Cake. The nation’s coveted tropical fruit in a soft cake, generously covered with fragrant vanilla buttercream; such a decadent indulgence that even Santa would be pleased.

From the last we’ve heard, Lime is fully booked for Christmas Eve & Christmas Day, so if you are planning to try their festive buffet which runs daily from 12 to 23 Dec 2014, and 26 to 30 Dec 2014, make sure you book a table soon.

Click here to find out more about PARKROYAL on Pickering’s Festive Dining at Lime.

PARKROYAL ON PICKERING’S FESTIVE GOODIES

Want to have all the festive goodies at the comfort of your home? Lime has a whole array of takeaways for you to pamper your guests with! From 1st to 25th December, take your pick from a series of festive roasts (pre-ordering required 2 days in advance), log cakes and chocolates. Yes, our favourite Honey Baked Ham (S$88++) is included in the festive roast.

Three pretty log cakes to choose from – Chocolate Cremaux with Crunchy Hazelnut Fellutine (S$29++ for 500g, S$58++ for 1kg), Durian Mousse with Vanilla Buttercream Log (S$34++ for 500g, S$68++ for 1kg) and Mango Passionfruit with Caramel Log Cake (S$29++ for 500g, S$58++ for 1kg).

Because sweets make such marvelous gifts, Lime has created so many for you to bring home too. There are pralines, there are cookies, and there is even a gingerbread house. Prices start from a very affordable S$12++. Now, you can’t say you have no idea on what presents to buy!

Click here to find out more about PARKROYAL on Pickering’s Festive Goodies.

Well, feasting also does not stop when Christmas is over. There are 12 days of Christmas, and there is the New Year to look forward to, too! Can’t get enough of Lime? Welcome 2015 with a celebratory buffet lunch or dinner at the restaurant. End the year on a high with unlimited servings of champagne and wine, or order Piper Heidsieck Champagne at a special rate of S$88++ per bottle.

Usher in the New Year at PARKROYAL on Pickering’s New Year’s Eve Countdown Party which starts at 10pm. At S$108++, it comes with free flow of wine, beer and soft drinks alongside canapés and an oyster bar. There is also the option of free flow of Piper Heidsieck Champagne at S$128++. The balloon drop at midnight will give you a chance to win a stay at PARKROYAL on Pickering’s Presidential Suite.

Beat your hangover with even more champagne and wine at PARKROYAL on Pickering’s New Year’s Day Brunch. From US Prime Ribs to Lobster Bisque and Pan-fried Foie Gras, there’s no better way to start the New Year on the right note.

Click here to find out more details of PARKROYAL on Pickering’s New Year Celebrations.

12 to 23 Dec, 26 to 30 Dec 2014
Festive Buffet Lunch: Adult S$68++, Child S$34++
Festive Buffet Dinner: Adult S$78++, Child S$39++

31 Dec 2014
New Year’s Eve Lunch Buffet: Adult S$68++, Child S$34++
New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet: Adult S$118++ or S$148++**; Child S$59++

1 Jan 2015
New Year’s Day Brunch Buffet: Adult S$108++, or S$138++**; Child S$54++.
New Year’s Day Dinner Buffet: Adult $78++/pax; Child S$39++

** includes free flow of champagne, wines, beer, soft drinks, coffee and tea.

For the latest updates, go to their website, like PARKROYAL on Pickering on Facebook, and follow them on Instagram.

Lime
PARKROYAL on Pickering
3 Upper Pickering Street
Tel: +65 6809 8899
Email: lime.prsps@parkroyalhotels.com
Buffet Lunch: 12pm – 2.30pm
Buffet Dinner: 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sunday Brunch: 12pm – 3pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown/Clarke Quay

This post is brought to you by PARKROYAL on Pickering.

While there are always new and trendy restaurants to check out every week, mezza9 at Grand Hyatt Singapore remains a perennial favourite when we want to reward ourselves with a good meal. Places like these comfort you with their promise of delivering consistently quality dishes in a familiar environment, with a team of dedicated staff to pamper and make you feel at home.

The theme for Grand Hyatt Singapore’s Christmas 2014 is aptly named ‘A Grand Welcome Home’. Whether it is a sumptuous Christmas dinner with your family, a gathering with friends, or a romantic date with your partner – dining at Grand Hyatt Singapore always makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Take the opportunity to treat yourself to a feast, book a table at mezza9 for a Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner and Christmas Day Brunch, and reward yourself for a whole year’s of hard work! From 1 to 25 December 2014, mezza9 presents a festive ala carte menu that uses the freshest seasonal ingredients. And there is a 15% early bird discount if you book for New Year’s Buffet Dinner before 15 Dec 2014.

Here, we share with you some of our favourites:

Amongst the appetisers, start with the Chestnut Salad (S$18) with lamb’s lettuce, frisee, apple, radish, field mushrooms and tossed with a chardonnay vinaigrette. Salads may not always be exciting, but trust us when we say mezza9 tosses really fantastic ones that always leave us polishing it off our plates fast before we knew it!

Then there’s the Mason Egg (S$26) – a slow-cooked egg that is served with winter truffle flan, potato and walnut crostini. So rustic, so Christmasy, so addictive.

Grand Hyatt Singapore is a huge advocater of sustainable seafood and you can always be assured of having the freshest and responsibly sourced seafood at the restaurant. How about half a dozen baked oysters Florentine (S$40)? Doused with a copious amount of cheese and spinach, the baked oysters Florentine make a comeback this Christmas because the chefs know how much regulars miss this dish!

The Cep Veloute (S$18) with pear, hazelnut and chervil – a rich and earthy porcini mushroom cream soup finished with white wine, cognac, butter and cream – is also a quintessential choice for a rustic Christmas dinner.

The main courses will get you excited. The highlight, without a doubt, is the 500g Australian Grass Fed Beef Tenderloin “Chateaubriand” (S$136). Served with a creamy morel mushroom sauce that complements the meat perfectly, and accompanied by the sweetest wood-roasted carrots, parsnips and potato dumplings, the steak we sampled was spot-on pink and ticked all the right boxes. It was glorious and, wait, what’s better than heavenly?

Filled with apple and chestnut stuffing, the slow-roasted Turkey Breast & Leg (S$46) with cranberry sauce is for those who need their yearly festive fix, because what is Christmas without some turkey and cranberry, right?

If you are feeling a little adventurous, then try Executive Sous chef Martin Scholz’s 18-hour Slow-braised Wild Boar Stew (S$48) with chanterelle mushrooms, root vegetables and pancetta. A very flavourful option, and all you are lacking of is a glass of strong-bodied red wine to complement.

And no one leaves mezza9 without some sugar for the soul. We love the Flourless Chocolate Yule Log (S$16) with brandied cherry ice cream, and the Fennel with Pollen Ice Cream topped with Honeyed Couscous (S$16) will send you to a sugar high.

But we totally fancy the idea of a Christmas Pudding (S$16). Who can resist the theatrics of a dessert set on fire? Flambeed with Irish whiskey table-side, it is really the showstopper that will end your meal on the perfect note.

As mentioned, the festive ala carte dishes are available at mezza9 from 1 to 25 December 2014. But if you want to spoil yourself silly and indulge in a buffet spread that is lined up with all the festive goodies – take note of the following:

mezza9′s Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner (7pm – 11pm) is S$178++/pax and it comes with free-flow champagne, red and white wines, soft drinks and selected juices, or S$128++/pax for the non-alcoholic option.

For Christmas Day Brunch, it starts from 11.30am and lasts all the way till 3pm – S$248++/pax with free-flow champagne, red and white wines, soft drinks and selected juices, or S$188++/pax for the non-alcoholic option.

If you are planning to throw a Christmas party at home, Santa’s Shop at Grand Hyatt Singapore can give you a hand with a great variety of festive dishes – like Whole Christmas Turkey (S$145 for 5kg), Whole Honey Glazed Bone-in Ham (S$250 for 4-5kg), New Zealand sustainable King Salmon (S$195 for 4-5kg), and Yule Log Cake (S$68) – for takeaway. Place your orders online here.

For the latest updates, follow Grand Hyatt Singapore on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

mezza9
Grand Hyatt Singapore
10 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 6416 7322
Sun Brunch: 11.30am – 3pm
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

This post is brought to you by Grand Hyatt Singapore.