Jones the Grocer

Jones the Grocer

http://www.jonesthegrocer.com/

Location: Blk 9 #01–12 Dempsey Road

Operational Hours: Mon 9:30am - 6:00pm

Tue - Fri 9:30am - 11:00pm

Sat - Sun 9:00am - 11:00pm

Tel: (65) 6476 1512

Located in the colonial style Dempsey Hill, this is a place where you can eat, if you're particularly hungry for cheese, and shop for grocery, mainly Australian products, since Jones originates from Australia and the Dempsey outlet is their 1st South-east Asian outlet.

The grocery section. Check out the high ceiling...

The deli section with long wooden tables and wooden chairs. A rather laid-back culture.

A snapshot of how its menu looks like altho this is a brunch and not lunch menu.

Cheese platter shared by 5 of us. One of the long white strip of cheese has a strong goat smell...supposed that is goat cheese? The other white cheese and orange coloured cheese tasted ok. It went well with the bland black biscuit. Have no idea why it is black - some said it is made of charcoal?!

The dried grapes were good, except that it would have been better if there were no seeds.

My honey baked ham sandwich ($11.50), squashed with loads of tomato and salsa. Thumbs up especially when it was served while the filling was still hot.

A close-up shot of my sandwich.

While the food quality is good, do not expect high service standards as they seem to have the same laid back culture, back home - Australia.

DIY Home-made Mixed Fruit Cake

Ingredients:

Mixed Fruits - 300gm

Flour - 200gm

Baking Powder - 5gm

Butter - 150gm

Sugar - 150gm

Egg - 3 eggs

Method:

1. Beat butter & sugar together until light and fluffy

2. Beat in eggs 1 at a time

3. Sieve flour and baking powder

4. Fold flour and baking powder into mixture

5. Add in mixed fruits

6. Pour contents into baking tin

7. Bake in oven at 180 degrees celcius for 1 1/4 hours

From the TV programme - Buffet Buffet

From Makansutra website.
http://www.makansutra.com/forums/singapore/viewtopic.php?t=16127&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0


The first episode:
For lunch buffet below $20, Geek Terminal at Market Street (http://www.geekterminal.com/) @ $13.90 per pax - think it's best for those working in Raffles Place & who want a light lunch. [Closed]

For lunch buffet between $20 to $30, Carnivore at Vivocity (http://www.carnivore.com.sg/Outlets/vivo.asp) @ $28++ per pax - good for meat-eaters & those working in Vivocity vicinity.

For lunch buffet above $30, Carousel at Royal Plaza on Scotts (http://dining.royalplaza.com.sg/) @ $39++ per pax - for those who can afford a leisurely lunch with international spread on a weekday at Orchard Road.


2nd episode on dinner buffets ... here are the details:
Below $20, Bombay Cafe Express at Suntec City Mall (http://www.bombaycafe.com.sg/) @ $14.90++ per pax - not sure if the buffet's only available on Friday nights since that was what the programme showed. There's also another Bombay Cafe around Tanjong Katong area. I have not tried their food, so any feedback from those who had?

Between $20 to $30, Harbour City Restaurant at PSA Building (http://www.harbourcity.com.sg/) @ $27.80++ per pax, only on weeknights - ala carte buffet menu of 48 dishes but subject to minimum of 4 pax to enjoy the buffet. This buffet does really look like a great-value for money, but provided you don't mind travelling to the rather remote location. I had only tried the dim sum lunch once & a long time ago, but it seemed very popular with working crowd around there

Above $30, MELT - The World Cafe at Mandarin Oriental (http://www.mandarinoriental.com/singapore/dining/MELT/) @ $70++ per pax, only on weeknights - add $25++ to enjoy free flow of alcohol. As expected, the programme showed this famous buffet in Singapore.


3rd episode on tim sum buffets ... here are the details:
Below $20, Lao Beijing at Plaza Singapura (http://www.tunglok.com/laobeijing/laobeijing_menus.html) @ $10.20++ per pax – only for high tea on weekdays, 3 to 5pm. For weekends & PHs, the price increases to $15.80++, but the spread has slightly more choices as well. Check out their website for the full high tea menus. It’s worth a try if you like lots of Chinese carbs.

Between $20 to $30, Peach Blossom at Marina Mandarin (http://www.meritus-hotels.com/hotelresort/marinamandarin/dining/peachblossom.htm) @ $28.80++ per pax, served between 11.30am to 2.30pm, only on weekends & PHs - ala carte buffet menu of over 26 dishes. I haven’t tried it but am really tempted by the display of fried cornflake beancurds, deep fried enoki mushroom parcels and black glutinous rice with pumpkin paste dessert last night.

Above $30, Hai Tien Lo at Pan Pacific (http://www.panpacific.com/en/singapore/restaurants_bars/Hai_Tien_Lo.html) @ $58++ per pax, between 11.30am to 2.30pm, only on weekends & PHs – the spread looked good, but 4 out of 5 tasters on the programme commented that the price was a little too high for dim sum, which I tend to agree, what’s more with the recession looming over our heads now.


4th episode on breakfast buffets ... here are the details:
Below $20, Bistro Delifrance at various locations (http://www.delifrance.com.sg/)@ $9.90++ per pax – only on Fridays to Sundays & PHs, 8 to 10.30am. Check their website for the various bistro locations; under ‘Promotions Hot Deals’ for the breakfast buffet details. Not sure why the flyer on the website indicated that we can have the bakery buffet breakfast at $7.95 and will need to add $3 for an additional hot meal, which was different from what was telecasted last evening, showing unlimited helpings to both their hot & bakery items. Perhaps different bistro have different menus or the flyer is outdated? Did anybody know which outlet they showcased last night?

Between $20 to $30, Cafe Brio’s at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel (http://www.millenniumhotels.com.sg/grandcopthornewaterfront/restaurant/index.html) @ $29.00++ per pax, served between 6.30 to 10.30am, on all days – the spread seemed very international, probably good for those staying nearby. I found the mention of dining al fresco alongside the Singapore River rather funny since the view is more like of a big canal, nothing spectacular.

Above $30, Olive Tree Restaurant at Intercontinental Singapore ( http://www.singapore.intercontinental.com/dining/olivetree.asp) @ $36.00++ per pax, between 6 to 10.30am, on weekends & PHs – the spread actually didn’t seem as international as Café Brio’s, but is definitely more high end. They have an egg station that will freshly cook your eggs in whatever style you want, which is the norm for 4 stars hotel establishments and above. And boy, am I impressed with their selection of fresh tea leaves that are served in actual tea pots rather than cups to individual customers. The pan fried beef and cheese selection looks really yummy too. So if I’m to choose between Café Brio’s & Olive Tree, I’ll rather pay a bit more & go for the latter. After a most satisfying breakfast, we can then walk off our food by shopping to our fill at Bugis Junction.


5th episode on high tea buffets ... here are the details:
Below $20, Chilli Padi Nonya Café at North Bridge Commercial Complex (http://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/chilli_padi_nonya_cafe/)@ $8.80+ per pax – there’s this other website - http://www.chillipadi.com.sg/, but I’m not sure if this is the main restaurant’s website or even related to Chilli Padi Nonya café, thus I link up the hungry-go-where website which I feel has the best details & reviews. The high tea buffet is served on all days of the weeks, 2.30pm to 5.30pm, and I think it’s $7.80+ on weekdays, add a dollar for weekends. I was salivating over the spread on tv last night, especially the nonya kuehs, kueh pie ti, chwee kueh & chilled sago with gula melaka. Seems like they rotate their daily menus, thus you may get your favorites on certain days. The spread may not be huge but it’s definitely worth a try for that price. For your information, North Bridge Commercial Complex is just opposite Bugis Junction.

Between $20 to $30, Ellenborough Market Café at Swissotel Merchant Court ( http://www.swissotel.com/EN/Destinations/Singapore/Swissotel+Merchant+Court/HOTEL+HOME/Gallery/Dining/Ellenborough+Market+Cafe.htm) @ $28.00++ per pax, served between 3.30pm to 5.30pm, only on weekends and PHs – needless be much said about this popular buffet with Singaporeans. It’s got a reasonably good spread, just don’t expect very nice ambience as I tend to think the café is always overcrowded. The cold chempedak dessert did look very tempting though.

Above $30, Tea Lounge at The Regent Singapore ( http://www.regenthotels.com/hotels/risin/dinings) @ $36.00++ per pax, served between 1.30pm to 5.30pm on weekends – this is a classic English tea buffet, probably more suitable for ladies of leisure or bunch of girls meeting up for a get-together or couples wanting a quiet afternoon to cosy up to each other. Can you imagine a bunch of guys or big families gathering at this place? I think that explained why Terence Cao kept going over to join the other 2 female tasters last night since it would be a bit awkward for him to sit alone and sample English tea. Anyway, interesting items to try include the Yuzu tarlet, cherry trifle and macarons.


6th espisode on steamboat buffets
Zheng Fa Steamboat - Less Than 20 @ $18.90++, on weekdays. Website: http://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/chin_huat_live_seafood_thomson/ (Chin Huat don't have their own website, so this is the best). I was surprised by the indoor decor as it really didn't look very nice outside. I found the uniforms of the staff rather corny, but overall, I wouldn't mind patronising this place with my family or a big bunch of friends so that we can share food & try everything. The desserts really looked interesting, and I am impressed by the fact that they don't only offer steamboat, but also grill/bbq & teppanyaki, & at such low price. I bet this place is going to get swamped from now onwards, & I regret not trying it before the telecast.

Chongqing Steamboat @ Tanglin Mall - Less than 30 @ $29.90++ on weekdays & $30.90++ on weekends. Website: http://www.chinesefeasts.com.sg/restaurants.html. The restaurant is more correctly known as The Magic of Chongqing Hot Pot, & you can find the extensive menu on the website above. I like their sauces a lot, and all the 1-serving Jing Chuan Dian Xin items are worth a try. The 8-treasure tea served is a bonus as it really aided digestion of food.

The Buffet @ M Hotel - Above 30 @ $38++ on weekdays. Website: http://www.millenniumhotels.com.sg/mhotelsingapore/restaurant/theBuffet.html. The hotpot buffet showcased last night is really impressive, but I think more suited for seafood lovers since they focus their themes around seafood. I salivated over the drunken prawns cooked on the spot & mushroom varieties & chinese herbs that you can add all you want to your soup, and of course, the durian pengat.


7th episode on dessert buffets ...
Below $20, Mingles at Velocity (Novena Square) – ice cream buffet @ $14.90++ per pax, available for high tea everyday – no official website so please refer to this:http://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/mingles_velocity/. The buffet offers 24 flavours of New Zealand Natural ice cream, with unlimited waffles (not served whole but in small slices) & 1 drink per customer. It may be too much to eat just ice cream unless you are a true-blue ice cream fan, so a suggestion is to go for their set lunches or dinners, which will give you main course, drink & dessert/soup. I tried this place a couple of times, & rather enjoyed their sausages & rosti. However, this place is definitely not meant for hanging out or big crowds.

Between $20 to $30, The Rose Veranda at Shangri-La Hotel - dessert buffet @ $28++ per pax, available between 3 to 6pm on weekdays. http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/singapore/shangrila/dining/restaurant/roseveranda. I actually think this is the most worthy of the lot showcased last night, I would love to give it a try when I can find time to take the afternoon off from work; have a leisurely high tea with my friends or other half. Being a female & tea drinker, I love the rose patterned crockery & am amazed by the 102 varieties of tea available. Apparently, they also serve tea cocktails, which are chargeable. Temptations include the crème brulee, mango; mint minestrone, lemongrass & chocolate mousse topped with crunchy chocolate balls, durian cake; chocolate fondue. They also have a selection of hot items for this buffet, which is great for those who are not die hard dessert fans.

Above $30, The Courtyard at Fullerton Hotel – chocolate buffet @ $38++ per pax, available Thur through Sat nights. http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fullertonhotel.com%2Fswf%2Fmain.html%23%2Fdining%2Fthecourtyard%2F&h=ea47b9bce3f1c0faa882eed32720654d. Well, another well known buffet, so I’m not going to say too much. I have never tried it since I don’t fancy gorging myself on chocolate, not that I don’t love chocolate, but I just don’t wish to run at the sight of chocolate for a long time after that. The only items that caught my attention last night are the lychee tiramisu and white chocolate soup.


8th episode on brunch buffets ...
Below $20, Penang Place Restaurant at International Business Park – not exactly brunch buffet but more like lunch buffet @ $19.80++ per pax, available daily from 11.30am to 2pm except on Sundays when they close – http://www.penangplace.com/ I tried this before, & have to say that I really enjoyed the spread. It is always very crowded though, so you definitely need to make reservations, even on weekdays. You can refer to the website for the buffet items.

Between $20 to $30, The Pearl River Palace Restaurant at Suntec City Convention Centre Level 3 – ala carte Cantonese lunch buffet @ $28++ per pax, available between 11.30am to 2.30pm on weekends. Being such a traditional Chinese establishment, they do not have their own website, but you can get good reviews at http://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/pearl_river_palace/ It seems like a good central venue for family get-together makan sessions on weekends with the usual Chinese restaurant fare, tim sum selection & desserts, & as usual, being able to shop after a heavy makan session is a plus point.

Above $30, Checkers Brasserie at Hilton Singapore – Sunday champagne buffet @ $160++ per pax, available from 12pm to 3pm. Without free flow champagne, it’s $70++ per adult & $25++ per child. http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/SINHITW-Hilton-Singapore-hotel/dining.do;jsessionid=17BE3DCE5A2E6071BC2B21DAF1E7FCAB.etc73#2. It sounds crazy to pay that kind of $$ for champagne plus lunch, especially when the atmosphere isn’t exactly leisurely or relaxed with a kids’ corner on the same premises. It also seemed so crowded and noisy in the show but if you have the cash to spare, can try for the seafood, western hot entrees like roast beef, foie gras (WOW!) & Yorkshire pudding, Indian cuisine like lamb kebabs & naans, Chinese selection like crepes with Peking duck and of course desserts.


9th episode on supper buffets ...
Below $20, Café Windsor at Hotel Windsor – Teochew porridge buffet @ $10.80++ per pax, available from 5pm to 11pm on weekdays – http://www.hotelwindsor.com.sg/ I didn’t even know that this hotel exists but upon checking its website, realized that it’s a small establishment located in a not very ideal location. However for the price & nice environment, may be can go try with your mate or friends. Featured items include Teochew braised duck, cornflake prawns, steamed pomfret, la la, beancurd skin with wolfberries, braised pork belly & of course, sweet potato porridge. The only dessert that they seem to serve is ice cream. Anyway, with that kind of timing, one can go for dinner instead of supper.

Between $20 to $30, Maifan Stone Healthy Steam Boat at 17 Sims Way (along Lorong 5 Geylang) – steam boat buffet between $20 to $25 depending on the soup base you choose, available between 5pm to 3am everyday, if I’m not wrong. Not much can be found about this place on the internet, but this Chinese website offers some information at least: http://www.singeat.com/vip/index.asp?storeid=775. They have 11 kinds of soup bases & you can select a 2-combination hot pot, but I’m not sure how they charge then. Examples of soup bases include fish head, milk & vegetarian (with mushrooms). The variety of ingredients, hot items & desserts seem ok only. It’s just one of those many steamboat restaurants that are everywhere & manned usually by a Chinese staff, so personally, I wouldn’t go all of the way to try this place unless I’m a die-hard steamboat fan.

Above $30, La Terrasse at Orchard Hotel – Teochew Muay buffet @ $28++ per pax on Sundays to Thursdays, 6.30pm to midnight; $33++ on Fridays, Saturdays; PHs, 6.30pm to 1am. http://www.millenniumhotels.com.sg/orchardhotelsingapore/restaurant/laTerrasse.html. This is a rather well-known porridge buffet place, being located in an established hotel in the heart of Orchard Road. Good place to bring your entire family, young & old, for a lighter pig out buffet option. Featured food included claypot sea cucumber, cold crab, cold prawns, braised pork belly buns, Teochew braised duck, freshly cooked lean pork & pork liver porridge, selection of vegetables that you choose on the spot which they will then cook for you, & the usual condiments that accompany porridge like salted egg, different kinds of preserved veg & cai poh egg.


10th episode on japanese buffets ...
Below $20, The Pasta Shop by Sakae at Tiong Bahru Plaza, #01-48 – available for high tea between 3 to 6pm on weekends @ $19.90++ per pax. There’s no official website or any that wrote much about this place, so I believe it’s still new. For an official write-up on this place, refer to http://www.apexpal.com/brands_tps.html . They have at least 55 types of pasta on their menu, probably similar to Pasta de Waraku. Tonight’s program featured items like Yakiniku beef soup pasta, seared tuna avocado pasta, salmon with ikura pasta, prawn and bacon kimchi soup pasta, and the one dish that I would seriously like to try – Japanese style braised pork pasta. I guess the prices are similar to Waraku as well.

Between $20 to $30, Curry Favor Japanese Kitchen at Novena Square, – ala carte lunch buffet @ $22.80++ per pax, available between 12pm to 4pm on weekends & PHs. http://www.curry-favor.com/web/promo_buffet.php - refer to their website for the buffet listings with photos to tempt you. A very comprehensive website, which you would expect of a bunch of young entrepreneurial bosses who furthered their studies in the States. Their flagship outlet is at Stamford House. I was rather impressed when I saw that they offer soft drinks, root beer, lemon tea, lychee cooler & oreo milkshakes, though I’m not sure if they are free flow. They also seem to offer this buffet for dinners on Fri, Sat, Sun & PHs, but best to call them to confirm.

Above $30, Himawari - Robatayaki at Alexandra Road – weekday lunch buffet @ $30.80++ per pax, available from 11.30am to 3pm. They also provide buffet dinners at $34.80++ per pax. Add $4 for weekend lunch or dinner buffet. The same buffets are offered at their other 2 outlets at Safra Mount Faber and Neil Road. I’m actually quite surprised to find a website with very detailed buffet listings and items at http://www.sbestfood.com/himawari.htm . Refer to the bottom of the page for the Alexandra branch’s exact location. Well, I don’t know if I’m suaku or what, but I have never heard of this restaurant, but am quite keen to try their buffet after seeing the show. Recommended items include shabu shabu (requires at least 2 to enjoy), assorted sashimi, grilled salmon head, fried soft shell crab, grilled cod fish, shisamo tempura and rosu katsu etc. Slurp …


11th episode on BBQ
Below $20, Yuki Yaki at Marina Square – available for lunch between 12 to 5pm on weekdays @ $19.90++ per pax. They also offer the buffet for dinner, and weekends & PHs only need to add $2. Refer to their official website for the buffet details: http://www.sukigroup.com.sg/website/yuki-yaki.htm . I’m not really impressed. The restaurant reminds me of Seoul Garden, and I always feel that the Suki group’s restaurants don’t offer quality food. Sorry, personal opinion.

Between $20 to $30, Ju Shin Jung at East Coast Park, – lunch buffet @ $29++ per pax. No official website, so refer to this for a good idea of what they have: http://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/ju_shin_jung_east_coast/ . I don’t mind giving this restaurant a try despite the limited meat choices, only 4 items, 3 pork and 1 chicken, since the meats look like good quality stuff, and they do have a lot of side dishes and good selection of vegetable appetizers. The restaurant environment also seems like a very good choice for gatherings of colleagues or friends. Boba – guess u should really go try the west coast branch since the east coast branch would likely be very crowded for a while.

Above $30, Yakiniku Daidomon at United Square – weekday lunch charcoal bbq buffet @ $43++ per pax, & weekend and PH buffet @ $48++. Refer to their official website for the full buffet menu: http://www.daidomon.com.sg/ . You can also go for their ala carte menu if you don’t fancy their buffets, which seem rather expensive to me, and also if you are a non-beef eater since their buffet menu offers lots of beef items.


12th episode on festive/holiday buffets
Below $20, Waffle Factory at the Singapore Post Centre – $8.80 per adult and $6.80 per child (below 12 yrs old), 10am to 10pm daily. When I googled for this restaurant, found another waffle place with the same name at Downtown East, so not sure if it is another branch or they have shifted from there to Spore Post Centre. The flavours come in sweet or savoury and include white chocolate Oreo bites, M&M White Chocolate, Cheddar Cheese, Strawberry Chocolate, Sarawak Pineapple and D24 Fresh Durian (limited to 1 order per pax). The buffet also comes with 1 drink and you can add $3 for a main course like spaghetti. Probably worth a try for parents with young children if you are around that area, but beware the limited space in the shop. After this telecast, I really don’t know how they are going to cope with the sudde influx of customers.

Between $20 to $30, Tiffany Cafe at Furama City Centre – weekend high tea buffet @ $28.80++ per pax, between 12pm to 5pm (only for the month of Dec). Their official website is at http://www.furama.com/citycentre/dining.php?s=tiffany . They are offering some Christmas items like roast turkey and chicken ham, but main stuff are mostly local & familiar international spread like mee rebus, satay, seafood, sushi and desserts. I have actually tried their buffets a couple of times a few years back, and recalled that the variety and quality is acceptable, but somewhat greatly enjoyed by my parents, so it’s again a good place to try out for a big and long family pig out session.

Above $30, Café Biz at Traders Hotel – weekend dinner buffet @ $52++ per pax (for the month of Dec only, and not available on Xmas eve and day). Their official website is at: http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/singapore/traders/dining/restaurant/cafebiz . You can also refer to http://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/cafebiz/ for some review on their holiday buffet. Popular items include American oysters (which really looked yummy!), roast turkey with unusual sauces like sweet-sour pineapple and Sichuan mala, drunken prawns, grilled and cold seafood, sashimi, brazilian churrasco and desserts like durian pengget. Overall, a spread that looks good …

Jos' Fudge Brownies

Had been thinking about the brownie cake which I ate at a colleague's housewarming partya couple of days ago, which inspired me into the baking mood on this Hari Raya Haji....

The good thing was there was a packet of pre-mix for fudge brownies and some mini choc chips.

Using the pre-mix is always easy. Simply mix it with water, vegetable oil and eggs. It is that easy.

I added the mini chips before sending the batter into the oven, which was preheat at abt 180 degrees.

There were 3 sets of baking duration provided for different baking tray sizes. I wasn't sure how big was my tray but reckon that the brownie would be cooked just before it gets burnt.

But half way through, I felt a little uneasy about the timing uncertainly and took a measuring tape to measure the tray size outside the oven. Haha....

Here's how the brownie looks like after 48 mins of baking... thou the instruction provided said that it should be done within 52 to 54 mins. Since the oven started getting a little smoky, I suspected that the top layer might get burnt anytime and hence decided to turn off the heat.

Here's the final product which I will be sharing with the HIPPIES tmr. The brownie seemed more chewy than it should be. The top and sides were a little "tough" while the centre is still a little damp. I kinda regretted not letting it bake "until full term" ie. 52 mins.

Anyway, I hope HIPPIES will like it and that my little impulsive experiment will caste away their Tuesday Blues for this week.

Chellas Indian Vegetarian Cafe

This is my first time having lunch at Chellas on a weekday. It was CROWDED... had to wait for about 10 mins before getting seats for 6 of us.

I've always like to eat batura, though I know it is extremely unhealthy. It is made of flour and deep-fried!

Here's my Channa Batura. It looks like an inflated balloon when it is served hot. They are served with a green chilli and a thick slice of onion. The curry next to it is the dip for batura. How do I like it? I was a little disappointed as the dough was a little too thick and too chewy.

One of my friends ordered a set meal. Doesn't it look interesting with so many kinds of dip? But notice something even more interesting?

One of the side dish is a piece of whole chilli - that really tickles me!

Thanks to a colleague who seems to be a regular at the restaurant, the boss gave a 10% discount for our lunch =)

Sushi Tei @ Holland V

Spicy Kimchi Miso Ramen was on the October promotion menu at Sushi Tei.

The ramen had lots of kimchi and seaweed, and I suspected there were lots of garlic in the kimchi. Sushi Tei managed to maintan the ramen quality and quite refreshing to have korean & Japanese fusion food.

Regent Hotel (Seminar Lunch)

Was at Regent Hotel for a seminar followed by lunch. I had opted for the Fishy meal instead of the Chicky meal.

Glad that it was salmon... a rather huge portion, I would say. Delicious!

My only complaint is - would anyone really finish up the onion? It looked like a monster!

Su Korean Cuisine [Closed]

Su Korean Cuisine

14 Scotts Road, Far East Plaza, #01.21

Telephone: (65) 6235-0420

Was there for a late dinner since most of the makan places at Far East Plaza were already closed by 9pm.

Frankly, the side dishes looked ordinary and tasted ordinary as well. Nothing worth special mention...

That's my main dish - Ginseng Chicken soup..... It was supposed to be the main-course of the day and had some discount. Again, the soup was ordinary as well, except that, there were a few more red-dates compared to other Ginseng Chicken Soup that you can find in other restaurants.

The portion is good enough for 2 persons.

Will I go back again?? Will prob do so if I have no other makan choices.

6-yolk moon cake!

I was fascinated by this obsese mooncake, which has 6 yolks in it. But fascination does not equate fancy. In fact, the sure yolkiness turns me off.

The price is also obsese - $34.25!

Nihon Mura - YCK Stadium

Nihon Mura is another Japanese family restaurant under the Suki Group. Not too long ago, the outlet took over a seafood (round) restaurant next to YCK Sports Complex. Why round? Go take a look for yourself and you will know. In fact, Suki Group has been expanding quite rapidly as far as I can see in which they also took over another restaurant just less than 200m away from Nihon Mura, and opened the Sakura International Buffet Restaurant.

Went there on a Friday evening and had no problem getting seats since the restaurant is tucked away in a quiet corner of AMK. What had attracted me when I stepped into the restaurant was the 4 layer sushi conveyor belt, that blurred my eyes, with sushi moving left and right. The reflection on the side of the conveyor did not help at all. While I do not think that 8pm was considered late, the sushi selection was already very limited and they had stopped making fresh ones.

Since I was there for the 1st time, the waitress explained how we should go about ordering our food as no menu was provided. WHat we had to do was to bring our "pen holder", exit the restaurant from a side door and there a array of menu was on display. There were ice cream sticks beside each menu and we just had to pick up the corresponding ice cream sticks and place them in the "pen holder". Something quite innovative, ya?

After we have made our selection, just pass to a counter and return to our seats. One down side to this is that either someone needs to stay back and watch our barang barang or leave the barangs on the table and run the risk of losing our valuables.

Food quality wise - not for fussy diners. Expectations had to be adjust for $0.99 sushi, $4 agedashi tofu (4 pieces) and $6.90 soft shell crab.

Frankly, the dipping sauces were pretty good but the hot aren't quite piping hot. Perhaps the air-con was too strong? But ya, the rice dishes are served in hot stone bowl, I will probably give it a try next time.

Seoul Yummy

For supporters of Meridian Hotel Food Court Korean Food, you'd be happy to know that Seoul Yummy, located at Square 2, is an expansion of Kim Dae Mun.
 

Seoul Yummy

10 Sinaran Drive

#03-68, Square 2 (next to Novena Square)

Singapore 307506

Tel: (65) 6397 6939
 

However, you might be disappointed with the food quality as many who has tried still prefer the meridien's food. But there is a reason to dine at Seoul Yummy - the dessert - PatBingSu, yogurt ice cream with shaved ice and fruits.
 

For a group of 2 and more, the set meal will save you a couple of bucks. It includes the side dishes (which aren't served if you order ala carte), main dish Bibimbap, fried glass noodles or fried udon, fried potato pancake or kimchi mandu (dumpling).
 

Side dishes - 5 in total. My fav is the cold tofu.
 

Fried Udon with seafood.

Fried Glass Noodles.


Bibimbap.

Fried Potato Pancake.

Kimchi Mandu (dumplings)

For the set meal, it comes with a drink and a mini bingsu.

The bingsu below is regular size. It is garnished with strawberry, kiwi, watermelon and red bean. The bingsu dessert is a must-try!

There is a promotion with HSBC currently but does not apply if you order the set meal.

Bobby's @ CHIJMES

While planning for this year's gathering, this was one of the places which we were seriously considered using. But for practical reasons, we chose our alternative choice.

Was back at Bobby's Taproom.Grill.Ribs for a casual dinner with my friends and my, the food, especially the BBQ ribs and pizza are really delicious. We were told that a second outlet was scheduled to open @ Cuppage in September. A quick check from the website and realised that they had a 'soft opening' on 2 Sep.

There's also Happy Hours for drinks from Sunday to Friday, 5pm to 8pm. Beer and selected alcoholic drinks are at $10nett.

We shared the Buffalo Wings. Looks are deceiving... though it does not look extremely appetising, I do like it very much. It has cripsy skin and juice meat... of cos, best to eat it while hot. It was so delicious that I forgot to dip into the mayo sauce.

I ordered the Bobby's wood-fired pizza which was huge. I guess it was at least 12 inches in diameter. It came in 8 slices and I thought it would be achievement if I could finish 4 slices while I have the other 4 slices to my friends. Boy, and I did finish all 4 slices!!!

The pizza filling was quite simple - tomato, cheese and BBQ pork.
 

So some unpleasant reason, the restaurant gave us a slice of their brownie with ice-cream as their token. The warm chocolate brownie came with a scoop of vanilla ice cream covered with a THICK layer of fresh cream and chocolate mousse, sprinkled with crushed peanuts.

Overall, it was a very satisfying dinner! Can't wait for another dinner at Bobby's soon.

Botak Jones (AMK)

Botak Jones

Block 529 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10

Singapore 560529

Phone / Fax: 67551225

Everyday 11:30 am till 10:00 pm (last orders)

Apparently, the other outlet at Blk 608 @ AMK Ave 5 is closed. This is the new outlet in AMK. Yet, this is an outlet that isn't too centrally located in AMK itself. It would have been better if it is located within the AMK town central instead of making us take a feeder bus into the neighbourhood area.

This time round, I decided to try "the dogs" instead of the popular fish and chips. Had the Giant Pork Italian Sausage and ya... it tasted porky and spicy. Not to say that it is spicy hot, it is spicy because of the spice herbs used with the minced pork.

Like other sausages, it has to be eaten while hot, else the "skin" will harden and you will be focusing on mincing the skin instead of enjoying the pork and spice.

Suki Sushi - Punggol Plaza

I seem to be eating Japanese food quite often these days. Perhaps it has got to do with ageing, I am more selective about the food I eat nowadays, less processed food.

Somewhere not far from my place, there is a japanese family restaurant - Suki Sushi. How rare... esp in a small housing estate like Punggol. From the looks of it, business seems good for the restaurant. And that's good news for me. Not because I have a stake in it but it provides another option for meals. Hee...

Look at this Salmon Teriyaki Don, $8.90, not too bad, ya? Reasonable price for the portion. Food quality is not too bad....

Sushi is going at $0.99, including hotate sushi! Sounds good?!

Secret Recipe @ Henry Park Apartment [Closed]

Yesterday's B-day celebration for July BBs was at Secret Recipe @ Henry Park Apartment. They have quite an extensive menu ranging from drinks, main course, desserts and cakes (especially).

Some of my fav are the Tom Yam dishes, Chicken Cornish and Apple Cheese Slice. But yesterday, I decided to try the Pan-Grilled Catch of the Day served with lobster sauce ($11.50). Frankly, I would rate this dish 6/10 cos it tasted it was pan-fried instead of pan-grilled. The crinkled fries was also over-fried, though they weren't burnt. What's worse, the serving portion for fries was quite miserable.

I really wonder why a Mango Ice Tea ($3.90) is red in colour??!!

I guess I would not mind going back there for meals again but will stick to ordering my regular favs.

Amici Italian Restaurant (Holland Village)

This is one Italian restaurant (Amici @ HV) which serves consistently good food, at least for those dishes that I have tried, including the one below - Creamy Alfredo with Ham. The cream sauce is so so so yummy.

Amici is a relatively classy restaurant and paying $8 for pasta of such good quality, what else can I complain? Note that this is only applicable during lunch.

Pasta de Waraku (Square 2)

This was my 1st visit at Pasta de Waraku @ Square 2... the restaurant entrance isn't very prominently located in the building though the restaurant itself is just next to a taxi stand. The entrance is located next to The Face Shop and not at the taxi stand side.

I decided to go for a light meal and order the Japanese-Style Clam Chower ($8.80). Thou V and J found the soup to be quite diluted, it was just right for me. However, what was very misleading was the BIG soup bowl, that gave us am impression that the serving portion was generous.

Guess some of us may be familiar with the famous Japanese plum alcohol - Choya Plum Wine. I ordered the Umeshu-soda ($6.80) which was a mix of the alcohol with soda.

And finally, my yummy dessert - Macha Azuki Parfait ($6.80). The bottom-most layer is corn flakes, covered with vanilla ice cream, topped with macha ice cream, strawberry, japanese rice balls, red bean paste and a piece of wafer biscuit.
 

Total damage - approx $25.

Tampopo Restaurant

Finally get to try the Black Pig Cutlet after hearing many rave reviews... what was so difficult was that I only get to try it only on my 3rd trip to Tampopo Restaurant (177 River Valley Road #01-23/24 Liang Court Shopping Centre). The story went like this...

First visit - I arrived too early on a Sunday morning and the restaurant was not open yet. At the time, it was located at Liang Court Supermarket @ the basement.

Second visit - Went back to Liang Court basement but found out that the place was taken over by another restaurant. It was only after that I realised that it has moved the level 1.

Third visit - it was an impromtu decision since I happen to be ard that area during dinner time.

The menu... the ala carte cutlet alone costs $21.80!! It'd better be good!

The actual cutlet....

Frankly, I think the quality of food has been over-rated and grossly over-priced!! The cutlet was quite oily and perhaps I am just not into meat with lots of fats, which is found in the cutlet...

Don't think I will be back for a second serving...