Everything about The Marmalade Pantry impresses from its stellar array of delicious food and its cosy spaces that provide a temporary respite from the hectic city. But beyond indulgent afternoons and solid meals, they also have a series of festive offerings available for a takeaway feast that’s fit to grace any house or office party.

Looking for Christmas centrepiece roast that’s sure to have your guests in total awe, try out the Whole Roasted Turkey with Fresh Herbs that surprises with its irresistibly moist and succulent meat. Brined in a sauce comprising salt and various aromatics for a long period of time, flavours are allowed to penetrate deep into the meat, making for a proper roast fit to grace your dinner table.

Whatever kind of Christmas gathering you’re looking to throw, you can count on The Marmalade Pantry’s repertoire of festive treats and delicious roasts more than sufficient to fit the merry-making bill. And for our dear readers, you get to enjoy a 10% Mastercard discount when you quote ‘ladyironchef10’ upon checkout online or when you call to make a booking.

WHOLE ROASTED TURKEY WITH FRESH HERBS

In light of any Christmas get-together, there’s really only one way to do Christmas dinner properly, and that’s with a big, bold, roasted turkey. Roasting it yourself is often a hassle and getting around the whole dryness part is even more so.

Promising a tender, succulent turkey that is neither bland nor dry, is the Whole Roasted Turkey with Fresh Herbs (S$98++ for 4.5kg). Brined in a salt mixture with fresh aromatics for at least 6 to 7 hours prior to marinating, stuffing and roasting, the flavours are allowed to permeate all the way through, ensuring that the end result is flavourful, properly seasoned and most importantly, moist.

Stuffed with orange wedges and mirepoix—basically, a fancy French term to mean carrots, onions and celery—the turkey develops a mild sweetness with a pleasant zing to it.

MAPLE HONEY GLAZED HAM

An intrinsic staple at any festive gathering, Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without a whole ham of sorts. Boasting a marvellous sheen of basted honey and stubbed with cloves all around, the Maple Honey Glazed Ham (S$88++ for 2kg) is one that won us over with ease.

Mildly smoky with a coating of honey that adds a buttery sweetness to it, this centrepiece delight was nicely balanced in both its aromatic qualities and taste. The ham was soft with a pleasant bite to it, which makes having leftovers (provided there are any left) in a sandwich just as enjoyable too.

ANGUS RIBEYE WITH MERLOT BEEF JUS

Nothing says indulgence quite like a luxurious slab of roast beef, perfectly seared from edge to edge while staying pink and succulent in the middle. This festive season, take your Christmas party spread up a notch with The Marmalade Pantry’s Angus Ribeye with Merlot Beef Jus (S$88++ for 1kg).

The marbling on the Angus ribeye was just a couple of sinews shy of being immaculate. Encrusted in a solid crust that only provided a nice crunch but effectively locked in moisture, the ribeye was truly a pleasure to eat. It is what it is, beef of exceptional quality, prepared and cooked properly sans any fancy twists to best bring out the true flavourful qualities of the meat.

TRADITIONAL STUFFING

Stuffing is a quintessential component at any festive feast and while it may not boast the same grandeur as that of a roast turkey, it still has a significant part to play nonetheless. The Traditional Stuffing (S$20++) impresses with its unique blend of flavours as well as its moist texture.

Sprinkled profusely with a myriad of fresh herbs, the otherwise unflattering side dish is given a flavour wake up call. The mirepoix gives the dish sweetness and the nuggets of bread act as the mortar as well as a sponge to soak up all the flavours. We never have much to say when it comes to stuffing but the one made here certainly got our attention.

CAULIFLOWER & BULGUR SALAD

With every Christmas roast there are a wealth of side dish options and accompaniments that go alongside it, most—take salads for example—are interchangeable, and contrary to what you may believe, not all salads have to consist of leafy, green veggies.

A salad that comes with a surprising amount of flavourful depth and a subtle smoky note to it, is the Cauliflower & Bulgur Salad (S$20++). Roasted prior to being tossed with the bulgur wheat, the salad takes on a subtle burnt note that gives the salad depth.

GARLIC MASH

Don’t be fooled by its plain appearance. Loaded with butter and fresh garlic, the Garlic Mash (S$20++) is heaven on Earth for anyone who loves a good mashed potato. Mashed to a smooth consistency but doing well to leave some chunks in, the mash complemented the roast meats beautifully.

ROASTED WINTER VEGETABLES

While Christmas is often more of a meaty affair, greens are an integral part as well, and you would do well not to forgo their Roasted Winter Vegetables (S$20++).

Most of the veggies that go into this heaping pile are flavoured with honey and thyme butter which give it a sweet and savoury tinge along with a velvety sheen. A vegetarian option that stands up well on its own, we dare admit that being vegetarian or not, this delicious side dish option is something that we’d readily gun for in a heartbeat.

RAINBOW LOG CAKE

Encased in a dense creamy exterior but revealing a stunning rainbow centre when cut into, the Rainbow Log Cake (S$60++) is something that’ll resonate well with both the young and the young at heart.

The layer of cream may feel too rich at first but the sweet, fruity-flavoured interior more than makes up for it.

MACADAMIA CHOCOLATE LOG CAKE WITH RED VELVET SPONGE

Presenting a medley of soft and crunchy textures and a luxurious burst of chocolate, the Macadamia Chocolate Log Cake with Red Velvet (S$60++) is bound to make you squeal like a kid. Layer upon layer of decadent goodness, this epic dessert comes generously filled with whole macadamia nuts that sit neatly atop a pillow of red velvet.

A rich, decadent delight, the red velvet sponge cake at the bottom centre does well to remind you that it is still a cake.

If you happen to be a Mastercard holder, you’re in luck, because we’re extending a 10% Mastercard discount to you. All you’ve got to do is quote ‘ladyironchef10’ upon checkout online or when you call to make a booking.

The Marmalade Pantry At Downtown
Oasia Hotel Downtown, #01-01
100 Peck Seah Street
Singapore 079333
Tel: +65 6385 0741
Reservations: enquiry.downtown@themarmaladepantry.com.sg
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 4pm – 7pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

The Marmalade Pantry At Novena
Oasia Hotel,
8 Sinaran Drive #01-02/04
Singapore 307470
Tel: +65 6664 0348
Reservations: enquiry.novena@themarmaladepantry.com.sg
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 4pm – 7pm
Nearest Station: Novena

This post was brought to you by The Marmalade Pantry.

When it comes to popular food enclaves in Singapore, Novena may not particularly stand out from the crowd—especially not with the likes of so many up and coming food havens such as Bedok or even Toa Payoh.

But little do you know that Novena packs many great local eateries and restaurants. To give you more purpose in visiting Novena, other than sending your children for tuition or shopping for sports apparel, here are 18 eateries, cafes and restaurants in Novena that you have to try!

328 KATONG LAKSA

If travelling to Katong is a little too much of a stretch, then you find comfort in knowing that an outlet exists just a few minutes away from Novena. Serving up hearty bowls of intensely rich laksa, these bowls of soul-enriching goodness will definitely put you in a good spot whenever you find yourself hankering for something warm and comforting.

101 Thomson Road #01-K1,
United Square Shopping Mall
Singapore 307591
Daily: 9am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Novena

BAAN YING

One of the latest restaurants to take up residence over at Royal Square at Novena, Baan Ying Singapore serves up a wide range of Thai fare stemming from other, more underrated parts of Thailand, and while the usual Thai staples such as tom yum and green curry are available, they most certainly aren’t the main stars of the show.

Their menu boasts a pretty extensive array of Northern Thai-inspired curries, salads and rice dishes and most dishes fall below S$10.

103 Irrawaddy Road
#02-07, Royal Square At Novena
Singapore 329566
Tel: +65 9111 7852
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Novena

CHYE KEE CHICKEN RICE

Over at Chye Kee Goldhill Roasted Chicken Rice, be mesmerised by the display counter that comprises rows and rows of gorgeously roasted chicken, char siew, pork belly and duck. This is one meat lover’s heaven that often sees a long line leading outside even before lunchtime.

As much as we love their roasted chicken rice, their rice tends to be a tad dry so instead, we recommend going for their Dry Macaroni with Roasted Chicken.

No. 151, Thomson Road, #01-151,
Goldhill Shopping Centre,
Singapore 307606
Tel: +65 9143 4147

Mon to Sat: 8am – 7pm
Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Novena

CRAFTSMEN SPECIALTY COFFEE

A popular coffee stop for office workers or even students in the search for a quiet place to study, Craftsmen Specialty Coffee is your answer to delicious coffee and all-day-breakfast items. Inspired by flavours from abroad, most if not all their nosh are designed with the intention to complement their freshly roasted and brewed coffee.

The Craftsmen Full Breakfast comes close to a traditional English breakfast while the Pulled Pork Burrito is divine on so many levels.

173 Thomson Road
Goldhill Centre
Singapore 307623
Tel: +65 96580769
Mon to Thu: 8.30am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 8.30am – 10.30pm
Sun: 8.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Novena

DA LUCA RESTAURANT

Serving up real-deal Italian food Da Luca Italian Restaurant is one spot that never fails to leave an impression. Owned by chef-owner Luca Pucciani along with his wife, this cosy Italian restaurant in Goldhill Plaza dishes out an arsenal of stellar antipasti, pasta and hearty mains.

Fresh ingredients, masterful preparations, friendly owners and good vibes all rolled out into one, this is without a doubt a place that promises a sensational dining experience.

1 Goldhill Plaza Novena #01-19/21,
Singapore 308899
Tel: +65 6258 4846
(Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)
Wed to Sun: 11.45am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Novena

HAIDILAO

Singapore’s hottest hotpot restaurant at the moment, Haidilao is one that needs no introduction.

Having opened yet another outlet at Royal Square at Novena, what Novena residents can expect is the same top-notch service, delicious soup broths and a sensational dining experience right in your very neighbourhood—all the way to 6 in the morning.

Royal Square @Novena,
103 Irrawaddy Road, #06-01/02,
Singapore 329566
Tel: +65 6565 7767
Daily: 10.30am – 6am
Nearest Station: Novena

JOE & DOUGH

Homegrown chain, Joe & Dough, is known for their high-ceilinged lounge cafes which rivals the likes of Starbucks. From sourcing the best Arabica beans to roasting the coffee beans locally, this popular coffee chain ensures that every cup of coffee they serve is a cup packed-full of warmth and unbeatable flavour.

10 Sinaran Dr, 01-156,
Singapore 307506
Tel: +65 6397 2669
Daily: 8am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Novena

KYUSHU PANCAKE

A notch above than your average pancake, what you can expect from this pancake joint from Japan, are incredibly thick yet light pancakes that come in a variety of mouthwatering flavours. The secret to it and what makes it unique is that unlike most, it is made using 7 different grains grown in Kyushu.

Must-try’s include the Kyushu Butter Milk Classic Pancake, Salted Caramel French Toast and Egg Benedict Pancake.

275 Thomson Road, #01-08,
Novena Regency
Singapore 307645
Tel: +65 6352 6265
(Closed on Mondays)
Tue to Sun: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Novena

LA RISTRETTOS

If you’re looking to hide from the hustle and bustle of the city, then allow La Ristrettos to be your safe haven. Hidden in the most obscure area in Novena, within a maze of private clinics, this humble cafe serves up hearty Melbourne-style brunch items as well as top-notch coffee.

10 Sinaran Drive #08-37
Novena Medical Centre,
Singapore 307506
Tel: +65 6397 7165
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat: 8am – 1pm
Nearest Station: Novena

LAO BEIJING

Capturing authenticity in both its appearance and cuisine, Lao Beijing in Velocity@Novena Square is where you’ll more than likely find well-executed Northern Chinese fare in the form of exquisite fish dishes, noodle dishes as well as an array of juicy dumplings. Famed for their xiao long bao and famous customisable popiah, the restaurant has bagged numerous awards over the years and sees a constant flood of loyal patrons daily.

238 Thomson road
Velocity@Novena Square, #02-11/12
Singapore 307683
Tel: +65 6358 4466
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 11am – 3pm, 3pm – 5pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Novena

LINGZHI VEGETARIAN

Vegetarian dining is very seldom on the top of anyone’s lists, but LingZhi Vegetarian is one of the rare few that proves to be an exception. Offering a straightforward yet dazzling new menu, diners can expect to fall head over heels for their vegetarian renditions of Lasagna, Peking Duck and even Satay.

The lack of meat may be hard to stomach, but judge all you want because the food really speaks for itself.

238 Thomson Road, #03-09/10,
Velocity@Novena Square
Singapore 307683
Tel: +65 6538 2992
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Novena

MARMALADE PANTRY

Have yourself an indulgent afternoon at one of the city’s best bistros. Beyond tea, scones and gorgeous little pastries, the outlet at Novena boasts a pretty good selection of mains. Bask in the luxury that is modern comfort food in the form of their Truffle Beef Burger and Miso Lobster Burger that will have you submerged in pure, sensorial bliss.

8 Sinaran Drive, #01-02/04
Oasia Hotel Novena
Singapore 307470
Tel: +65 6664 0348
Daily: 6.30am – 10.30am, 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Novena

NARA

Offering quality Japanese food, service that’s hard to fault and an overall intimate dining experience without breaking the bank, Nara is one spot that will take your taste buds on a sensorial journey.

If you’re ballsy, you should definitely opt for the shirako ponzu (fish sperm served in ponzu) when it’s in season.

167 Thomson Road,
Singapore 307619
Tel: +65 6256 6568
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Novena

SSIKKEK KOREAN GRILL BBQ BUFFET

There are a few Ssikkek outlets in Singapore, and the popularity of each outlet leaves one little to wonder. It is really a simple and fuss-free place for some casual feasting.

While Ssikkek doesn’t have the best quality meat such as Wagyu, it makes up for it with its competitive pricing and lively atmosphere.

101 Thomson Road, #B1-14/15/16
United Square Shopping Mall,
Singapore 307591
Tel: +65 6254 8123
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Novena

SKY 22

Sky22 sits on the 22nd level of Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena, boasting an unbeatable view of the surrounding city area.

The restaurant focuses on a small plates-style buffet where the different dishes are prepared in small batches to ensure quality and freshness. Dishes to look forward to are the ‘Nasi Ulam’ Wild Rice Salad with charred octopus, Pan-seared Red Grouper with Sambal Oelek and Tiger Prawn Laksa Lemak.

99 Irrawaddy Road
Singapore 329568
Tel: +65 6378 2040
Daily: 6.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Novena

SUSHI MATSUO

Featuring a pretty extensive lineup of sushi, sashimi and donburi options made using fresh seasonal produce, Sushi Matsuo is one spot we would recommend to satisfy your craving for raw seafood without the fine dining price tag.

Set in a small yet homely space, the restaurant dishes out anything from uni to tuna served several ways and will have you feeling as if you were dining in a restaurant in the suburbs of Tokyo.

1, Goldhill Plaza, #01-17,
Singapore 308899
Tel: +65 6356 2603
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sun: 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Novena

TUNGLOK TEAHOUSE

We are such big fans of TungLok Group’s arsenal of restaurants and one of the places we frequent most is TungLok Teahouse for their delectable, handcrafted dim sum. Their signature Steamed Siew Mai with Quail Egg and Truffle is a huge hit and don’t even get us started on their Boxer Chicken.

10 Sinaran Drive
#01-73 Square 2
Singapore 307506
Tel: +65 6893 1123
Mon to Sat: 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Sun: 9am – 4.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Novena

WEE NAM KEE

Anyone who’s truly a fan of chicken rice would definitely have tried Wee Nam Kee at least once or several times. Having moved to United Square, the interior does feature a brand-new look but where taste and quality are concerned, the standard of their food remains pretty much unchanged.

Their rice is fragrant, their homemade chilli sauce is superb and their chicken, well, is simply put, one of the best we have ever tasted from its outrageously succulent meat to the delicious sauce that does well to enhance every bite with its savoury and subtly sweet qualities.

101 Thomson Road, #01-08
United Square Shopping Mall
Singapore 307591
Tel: +65 6255 6396
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Novena

In light of our hectic, mundane 9-to-5 work lives, often we find ourselves yearning to jet off for a vacation. A beach holiday in Bali perhaps, or even a romantic European tour with our other half. Sadly, there are times when a proper holiday just isn’t possible either due to overly exorbitant airfares or the sheer amount of work we have on our hands.

The next great thing, although it might sound like a bummer, is having a staycation in Singapore itself, and one that promises both comfort and exceptional service is the Oasia group of hotels and serviced residences.

Every Oasia property provides a restorative respite from your day-to-day responsibilities without taking you too far away from everything the beautiful lion city has to offer. Read on to discover your next holiday within Singapore.

OASIA HOTEL DOWNTOWN, SINGAPORE

Located in the heart of the Central Business District and one minute away from the Tanjong Pagar train station, Oasia Hotel stands out from the urban jungle with its iconic red facade and lush vertical garden.

A true respite in the city, the tropical skyscraper is refreshingly sleek inside, thanks to the modern functionalist style of architect and renowned Spanish designer, Patricia Urquiola. The hotel utilises space, design and greenery to create a unique experience for guests, ensuring comfort and a memorable experience for all.

With welcoming breezes everywhere you go inside the property and thoughtful spaces for you to relax, Oasia Hotel Downtown feels exactly like a safe respite from the busy and stressful CBD.

Those who love a good tipple—especially one that is gin-based— can find joy in the hotel’s bar, Cin Cin that houses close to 100 different labels of gin sourced from around the world.

OASIA HOTEL NOVENA, SINGAPORE

For those in search of serenity, Oasis Hotel Novena, Singapore lets you enjoy a little peace and quiet while still being close to the bustling Orchard Road. Directly connected to the Novena train station, getting around is a breeze.

Wood, granite and other natural elements make up the calming landscape in the charming enclave of Novena. With its stylish interiors, open spaces and promise of impeccable service, this is a great option for couples.

Take a dip in their gorgeous, highly-lauded and award-winning Club Lounge private pool where peace and quiet come with absolute exclusivity and makes for a pretty romantic spot when the sun goes down.

OASIA RESIDENCE, SINGAPORE

If you are planning for a long stay in Singapore, live a life of classiness at Oasia Residence, Singapore. Be treated to scenic views of West Coast Park and coastal breezes as stress and tension melt away the moment you enter this home away from home. Here, a soothing retreat with easily accessible shops and eateries is always at hand.

Oasia Residence sits on the fringe of the city’s dynamic science and technology cluster. Just minutes away from the National University of Singapore, Singapore Science Park and one-north. Yet, being adjacent to West Coast Park, it offers a tranquil respite within the comfort and familiarity of the city.

The sheer amount of sensorial bliss you get here is unparalleled. The residence offers 140 studios, one and two-bedroom apartments, well-ventilated spaces, coastal views and a suite of wellness offerings.

OASIA SUITES KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

If you do, however, consider a short trip out of Singapore, Oasia Suites located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia will guarantee respite and satisfaction just the same.

Located in KL’s Golden Triangle and adjacent to the city’s only primary tropical rainforest, Oasia Suites Kuala Lumpur is the place to stay in the lively Malaysian capital. Filled with pockets of green spaces, modern comforts including en-suite kitchenettes in all rooms, every stay is bound to astound in terms of functionality and relaxation.

The property offers you your very own tranquil green retreat in metropolitan Kuala Lumpur where you can soak in the tranquil views of the nearby KL Forest Eco Park, allowing you to forget about the hectic city life. With an idyllic rooftop garden and swimming pool, relaxation has never looked this beckoning.

For more information, do visit www.oasiahotels.com.

This post was brought to you by Oasia hotels and serviced residence.