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Also known as the fifth season in Germany, Karneval is a traditional German festival that can be traced back to the 13th century. It marks the beginning of Lent, and entails copious amounts of eating, drinking and merriment, and usually accompanied by a huge parade combining elements of a circus, masks and social satire.

Fun fact: Depending on the region of Germany you’re at, the same festival takes on different names: Karneval, Fasching and Fastnacht. Read more here.

Karneval @ Brotzeit

From now till 25 February 2018, Brotzeit is bringing the flavours and Gemütlichkeit (a feeling of warmth, friendliness, and good cheer) of Karneval to Singapore! While you can’t get a parade here, Brotzeit has launched a specially-curated Karneval menu, featuring festival favourites and exclusive Karneval-only craft beers from Germany during this festive season.

We were greeted by Brotzeit’s Group Executive Chef Wolfgang Ranner, who gracefully brought us through some of the common menu items that you can get at the actual Karneval in Germany. After starting the party with hearty “prost” over a refreshing pint of Karneval-exclusive Gaffel Kölsch, we were presented with a really long sausage on an equally big bun. #thatswhatshesaid

The Gaffel Kölsch a fresh speciality beer from Cologne with a delicate blend of a bitter yet pleasant and slightly hoppy taste. Brewed according to a time-honored family recipe and the German Purity Law of 1516, Gaffel Kölsch is clearly distinguished from all other Kölsch brands.

Brotzeit’s Half-meter Sausage Challenge

Ready your stomachs, and test your might to take on their Half-metre German Sausage Challenge. Teams of two will each have four minutes to finish a half-meter of Brotzeit’s Deutsche Halbmeter Wurst, featuring classic Nürnberger sausages, served with sauerkraut and potato salad in a baguette. That’s about as long as an entire adult forearm, or about 2.7 banana for scale. Any team that completes the challenge within the stipulated four minutes will enjoy the sausage on the house, and being able to have bragging rights to have TESTED YOUR MIGHT and be called Brotzeit’s Wurst Champions.

We were lucky that there were 6 hungry people to wolf it down, and we probably took longer than four minutes anyway. Accordingly to a manager from the team, the record at that time is(maybe was) 3 minutes 44 seconds!

Another feature of Brotzeit’s Karneval menu is Zweierlei von Huhn (Duo of Chicken), which is basically chicken served two-ways; a tender oven-roasted chicken, and golden fried chicken (done like chicken schnitzels). Marinated generously, the roasted chicken was as tender and juicy as you can imagine, while the fried chicken was on point with the amount of batter and crispiness to it without being dried out. Served with potato salad and Fries, it’s a good sharing dish!

Ever been in the situation where you have a big party and everyone wants everything? Or conversely, you really want that one dish in a platter, but you got to deal with the others that make you go ‘meh’? Brotzeit’s Deutsche Tapas (German Tapas, 3 for $15, 6 for $28, 12 for $45) is the solution for all diners! Choose from a list of TWELVE different tapas items, totally customisable to your liking below. Want 12 meatloaves? Yes please!

Bierbeisser (sausage), super food salad (Chef Ranner lol’d), spicy chicken sausages, currywurst, golden fried chicken, cheese spätzle, meatballs, seabass filet, fried mushrooms, meatloaf in a mini kaiser roll, chicken schnitzel in a mini kaiser roll, and their meat patty in a mini kaiser roll.

To finish off the evening, we were given special off-the-menu Berliners (German doughnuts with fillings), but you can check if you can get lucky too 😉

More Information

Brotzeit Singapore
Outlets in Singapore: 313@Somerset, VivoCity, Raffles City, Katong, Westgate (click to see opening hours and reservation info)

Iza – Your Local Izakaya Bar

In collaboration with the guys from The Skewer Bar (TSB), Iza is a new Izakaya located in the rustic neighbourhood of Siglap in December 2017. Nestled along a cosy row of shophouses, the restaurant provides a relaxed and laid-back industrial setting against a backdrop of concrete floors and walls, exposed light bulbs and wood finishes.

If you’re already familiar with TSB’s no nonsense, delicious grilled skewers at their first outlet in Geylang, you’ll be pleased to find that Iza similarly serves a good mix of traditional kushiyaki skewers grilled to perfection, alongside creations that marry Japanese-inspired classics with local flavours.

Grill? Grill!

We were first introduced to the first of many local-infused classical Japanese dishes; the Four Ton Chawanmushi. Instead of boring mock crab fishcakes and mushrooms, this spinoff includes a bled of four different eggs: the usual chicken egg, together with century, salted and quail eggs. Despite being an appetiser, the loaded savouriness will already make you go u-mamamia! Other equally intriguing Singaporean-styled dishes include the Otah Tamago, the Stuffed Taupok Special (a TSB special; please try this) and their two Hae Bee Hiam (Shrimp paste) specials: the Onigiri and Spaghetti.

Not to forget in true izakaya fashion, Iza presents a wide array of well-marinated skewers grilled-to-order. From yakitori to yakiton, fresh seafood and grilled vegetables, you can be sure you’re not sacrificing quality for them being decently-priced. My recommendation is that you go in parties of 4 and above to ensure that you have enough stomach space to share as many items as you can!

Photo by Iza
Photo by Iza
Photo by Iza
Photo by Iza

Of course what’s an izakaya without good Japanese booze?  From Japanese craft beers to Dassai, Tengumai and Fudoh sakes, and Japanese whiskies, you can unleash your inner salaryman with a vengeance!

Verdict

hole-in-the-wall-ness: [star rating=”5″]
It’s pretty easy to miss if you’re just passing by, and you may not even pass by this quiet part of the neighbourhood despite being along a ‘main’ road. Not that it deters many savvy foodies from patronising the row of restaurants and bars.

Price: [star rating=”4″]
With skewers starting from just $1.90, you can be affirmed of their value for money.

Quality: [star rating=”4.5″]
No-nonsense, on point grilled skewers made in full view through the glass window of the kitchen.

Overall: [star rating=”4.5″]
Existing TSB fans would definitely recognise the quality of Iza’s food, with a more comfortable ambience. If you have never been one, no worries; you’ll have a grilling good time.

More Information

Iza – Your Local Izakaya Bar
695 East Coast Road
Singapore 459059
Phone: 6385 2883
Operating Hours: 4:00PM to 1:00AM Daily (Last Order 12:30AM)
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[GIVEAWAY] Read till the end of this article for a giveaway!

Morganfield’s Orchard Central

Morganfield’s, of Sticky Bones – American BBQ pork ribs, slow cooked to tender perfection – has just opened their 4th outlet at Orchard Central! Perched high up at level 11, you can expect the same delicious ribs in town, smokey, juicy and tender, slathered with your favorite sauce! Best washed down with a nice pint of beer, mmm.

Speaking about beer, a new feature at Morganfield’s Orchard Central is Bar MF, the highest craft beer bar in Orchard Road. This craft beer bar aims to make craft beer more approachable and accessible, and they serve up to 10 rotating beers on taps from all over the world. Don’t worry about being called a noob if you’re new. Simply approach the friendly bartender, and he will be more than happy to introduce you to the wonderful world of craft beer, and find one that suits you best! Expect crowd favorite brands, and crafted seasonal specials as well.

Morganfields Beerfarm Morganfields Beerfarm

We were invited to their launch event where some of their favourites were served, such as the Pulled Rib Sliders, Crispy Golden Pork (must try) and Candied Bacon (!!!). Being at the pinnacle of Orchard Road dining means that the restaurant is a great place to gather with friends for a hearty meal or colleagues for a round of after work drinks, away from the bustling city crowd. You can expect great quality food, and equally great beers here!

Morganfields Beerfarm Morganfields Beerfarm Morganfields Beerfarm Morganfields Beerfarm Morganfields Beerfarm Morganfields Beerfarm Morganfields Beerfarm

Check out their regular promotions too, like their Weekend Ribs Buffet where you get free flow ribs at $40++ every weekend and public holidays from 11am to 4pm. Did I also say that kids eat for free on weekends too (with every purchase of any mains, up to two kids’ meals per table). Check out their website (link below) for more information.

Beerfarm – Established For The Future

Breaking the duck for both Morganfield’s, as well as their own appearance in Singapore is Beerfarm brewery, from Metricup, Western Australia. Living by their mantra “Established For The Future“, Brewmasters Neal and Peter came to Singapore for the first time to tell about how Beerfarm prides itself as a brewery that makes award-winning beer in a sustainable fashion that grows with their local community.

We were treated to a wide selection of their beers, ranging from the light, crisp West Coast Lager to the punchy, hoppy India Pale Ale (IPA) and the milky Milk Stout. Each had a distinct character and taste; a hallmark of the dedication to stringent brewing practices and quality ingredients. My personal favourite was their Belgian Sour and all its tarty glory, and the Barrel Aged-Marmalade Saison, of which the Seville oranges were actually picked from a tree from their own farm.

New or seasoned craft beer enthusiasts, do check out their decorated India Pale Lager, or “the beer the brewers make for their own selfish pleasure”. Bagging the “Best International Lager” at the 2017 Australian International Beer Awards, it is a vibrant mix of tropical fruit flavours and the aroma of a few hop varieties (Magnum, Mosaic & Saaz for the nerds), matched with a light maltiness and fiinshed with a crisp bitterness.

Morganfields BeerfarmMorganfields Beerfarm

GIVEAWAY

Score some free chow at Morganfield’s Orchard Central! Stand a chance to be the one lucky winner to walk away from a $50 voucher*! To participate:

Instagram:

Follow @MorganfieldsSingapore and @holeinthewallsg on Instagram and comment on this post:

  • What do you look forward to seeing in Morganfield’s Orchard Central
  • Participants to tag someone you would like to visit Morganfield’s Orchard Central with!

Contest is open to all Singaporean/PR residents with a public Instagram account. Remember to set your profile to public! This contest ends by 22 December 2017 11:59PM.

More Information

Morganfield’s Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road
#11-03/04
Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Reservations: 66341828
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Beerfarm
177 Gale Road
6280 Metricup, Western Australia
Australia
Email: orders@beerfarm.com.au
Facebook | Instagram | Website

p.s. Thanks Neal for the beer talk!

Bar on 5

Bar on 5 at Mandarin Orchard Hotel recently got us over one evening for a tasting of some whiskys. Set within the urban buzz, this chic and contemporary bar, situated at level 5 (hence the name) is a popular hang-out amongst sophisticated professionals, corporate business people, and trendsetters. There’s also a decent craft beer bar adjoining to the lounge, but that’s a story for another time.

Chivas Regal Mizunara Whisky

Debuting in Bar on 5, the Chivas Regal Mizunara blended scotch whisky is an award winning special by their Master Blender Colin Scott. With a part of the blend matured in rare Mizunara oak (Quercus mongolica) casks, it gives a unique sweet and creamy taste with hints of spice and hazelnut. Accompanied by Chivas Regal’s Whisky Sommelier, we were treated to a tasting session where any decent Scotch is enjoyed with a splash of water (and not copious amounts of sweetened drinks), and in this case with tulip glasses to fully enjoy the fruity aroma of peaches and pears. Paired with a selection of light canapés, we enjoyed every sip of the whisky.

Chivas Regal Mizunara Mandarin Orchard

Chivas Regal Mizunara Mandarin Orchard Chivas Regal Mizunara Mandarin Orchard Chivas Regal Mizunara Mandarin Orchard

Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve

As a bonus we were ALSO treated to another variety of Scotch, the Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve. Named for the distillery’s founder, George Smith, it’s a single malt Scotch that’s on the lighter end of single malts with generous aroma and taste of fruits. As their product manager calls it, ‘a good, gentle introduction to people who just started to enjoy single malt whiskys’.

Chivas Regal Mizunara Mandarin Orchard

Chivas Regal Mizunara Mandarin Orchard

I Think You’re Neat!

A short (heh, whisky pun) and simple evening, but we had a really fun experience of enjoying a couple of decent whiskys that will definitely leave a longer note. Currently they have offers for bottles of the Mizunara Oak (at time of writing the launch promotion is $460++ for 3 bottles), but do check it out at the bar as it may change time to time.

More Information

Bar on 5 @ Mandarin Orchard
Level 5, Mandarin Orchard Singapore
333 Orchard Road, Singapore 238867
Operating Hours
Sunday – Thursday: 11.00am – 1.00am
Friday, Saturday, Eve of Public Holiday: 11.00am – 2.00am
Phone: 6831 6286
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(NOTE: The cafe is closed for a bit till 16 Nov 2017)

Iced T

Tired of the same sweet bottled beverages you can find in convenience stores, or the saccharine-loaded teas soaked in cheap milk-flavoured powder? Not that they’re not enjoyable (I’d like an Arizona I C E D Tea once in a while), but I guess we should be mindful of what we putin us, especially since we’re here doing food reviews.

Cafe Yellow


In the town (where I was kind of born), at the far end of the second floor of Millenia Walk, sits a Citroen van that’s painted the brightest of yellow. Together with We The People (the Kickstarter products store), the aptly visually-named Cafe Yellow is a simple get-up that serves naturally-flavoured teas that are no added sugar.

Some of my favourites from their cold brew tea series are the mango sticky rice flavor with strong coconut hints reminding you of the markets of Bangkok, and the Hojicha with a fragrant malty taste reminiscent of the temples of Kyoto. For you caffeine junkies, they also serve Nitro cold brew coffee (seeing a trend here)!

Oh, did I mention that Cafe Yellow also run by the loveliest동생 ever, Sohee?

Verdict

hole-in-the-wall-ness: [star rating=”3.5″]
Ever since the previous anchor (Harvey Norman) moved out, it’s pretty quiet on the second floor of Millenia Walk, so you don’t really notice it so much.

Price: [star rating=”3.5″]
At $5-7 per drink, it’s pretty reasonable, and you get a nice ambiance away from the buzz. #protip: It’s a good hiding place when you need to rest from visiting the many conventions at nearby Suntec City Convention Center.

Quality: [star rating=”4″]
It’s a simple variety of beverages, but they all taste fresh and wholesome, none of that overtly sweetened syrups!

Overall: [star rating=”3.5″]
Decent teas and a nice view (with pretty owner as a bonus)? We could drop by every time we’re in the area!

More Information

Cafe Yellow
Level 2, Millenia Walk
9 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039596
Tel: 9233 0627
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Want to tell me about a hole in the wall in your neighborhood? Write to me!

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At no time are we ever in such complete possession of a journey, down to its last nook and cranny, as when we are busy with preparations for it. After that, there remains only the journey itself, which is nothing but the process through which we lose our ownership of it. – Yukio Mishima

 

EDIT JUL 2020: Nook & Cranny are closed till further notice.

So not that long ago I saw this on my Facebook timeline:

I decided to try my luck (some of the answers were pretty good guesses, like pistachio) and lo behold, I was right! So off I went to get a taste of this unusual concoction…

Nook & Cranny

Started in 2015 by part of nookedmag.com, Nook & Cranny is well, literally in its namesake along Sin Ming Road, more popularly known for roti prata and Udders ice cream. Situated at Thomson V One, it is easy to miss it if you’re not looking. Despite that, it’s actually not difficult to reach, with Marymount MRT Station just a couple bus stops out, or a 10 minutes walk.

The interior’s nothing much to yell about, but it feels spacious and cosy despite the area not actually being really big; the biggest table at the al-fresco area is good enough for 8-10 people, although I’m sure they will be happy to accommodate.

Nook & Cranny Nook & Cranny Nook & Cranny Nook & Cranny Nook & Cranny Nook & Cranny Nook & Cranny

The menu also exudes the cosiness and down-to-earth concept of the cafe design. The Truffle Mac & Cheese, topped with a soft boiled egg and the Chicken Bleu (Chicken Cordon Bleu), served on a bed of orzo rice pasta (it feels like rice but tastes like pasta!), are all comfort and zero nonsense. Also check out their signature “Nook Wings” that’s battered with a *secret* recipe and served with a generous amount of BBQ sauce dip!

Other items on the menu that you should check out as well include the Salmon Benedict, and their waffles & ice cream, just to name a couple.

Nook & Cranny

See you Latte

The star and main purpose of my visit, the Pandan Latte, was an interesting spin. Kind of reminds me of eating ondeh-ondeh, a traditional snack in Southeast Asia, with some hints of nasi lemak. However for now it remains a one-time special, as the guys at Nook & Cranny are refining the drink for a comeback (hopefully soon!).

In the meantime, check out their signature drinks like the matcha latte and signature hot chocolate! Perfect for a pit stop in the afternoon or to wind down the evening if you’re that sort of coffee drinker like me (having coffee at night but still managing to sleep).

Recently, they’ve also won the 2017 Singapore AeroPress Championship held at the Singapore Coffee Festival 2017. You know they’re up to some good brews when their barista’s award-winning!

Verdict

hole-in-the-wall-ness: [star rating=”5″]
Hidden from street view, and before the Thomson-East Coast MRT line comes, you will definitely need to do some legwork to find Nook & Cranny, in a nook and cranny. There’s ample parking available in the complex though.

Price: [star rating=”3.5″]
Mains and drinks set us back about $50, which puts it in a slightly upper range but still decently priced.

Quality: [star rating=”4.5″]
The food here is not complicated, and servings are comfortably adequate. You can also feel the freshness in their beverage as they prepare them fresh too.

Overall: [star rating=”4″]
A nice hideaway in what is more famous as a favourite supper area, you can cosy up and spend hours here to get your fill of nice food and drinks!

More Information

For the whole month of August, celebrate their first birthday by enjoying a 2nd main course at 50% off!

Nook & Cranny
9 Sin Ming Road
#01-03
Thomson V One
Singapore 575630
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12:00pm to 10:00pm, CLOSED TUESDAYS
Fri: 12:00pm to 11:00pm
Sat: 11:00am to 11:00pm
Sun: 11:00am to 10:00pm
Reservations: 6452 7449 or info@nookmag.com
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Singapore Coffee Festival 2017 – Organised by The Straits Times & Presented by DBS Bank

Just yesterday I attended the Singapore Coffee Festival 2017 (Media & Trade Day). Organized by The Straits Times and presented by the DBS Bank, it’s back for its second year!  This year it’s held at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore. To me even though it meant a 10 minute walk down a very long sheltered walkway, it is a big improvement over the previous location, as the entire immigration and boarding centre is turned into a giant festival ground, all in the comfort of cool air-conditioning! There are actually 2 levels of the festival this time, so instead of a claustrophobic corridor, now it is held in a spacious and tall indoor venue.

To cater to everyone, they’ve also split up the sessions into two: brunch (10:00am to 3:30pm) and sundown (4:30pm to 10:00pm). Be sure to go on time so that you have maximum enjoyment of your favourite cuppa. Before you read on, get your tickets here! Regular tickets are priced at $22 per session, and at $18 per session for DBS cardholders and Straits Times subscribers.

 

The Straits Times – Coffee and Conversations

Similar to last year, apart from just downing shots of caffeine, The Straits Times are holding a series of talks and conversations with interesting personalities, from baristas and start-up entrepreneurs, to social enterprises and corporate leaders.

The brunch sessions features Coffee with the Boss, a series of talks by towkays (bosses/leaders) such as DBS’ regional head of group research Timothy Wong on investment tips (Sunday), Singtel’s consumer chief executive Yuen Kuan Moon on the digital age and technology (Saturday), as well as Princess Cruises director for South-east Asia Farriek Tawfik on travel tips and destinations (Friday). The sundown sessions are more casual, featuring cafe owners, baristas discussing becoming a F&B entrepreneur, and having a mid-career change into the industry. Check out the full programme here.

Live Kind with DBS

Can a cup of coffee change the world? As part of its vision to create a positive impact beyond banking, DBS Asia For Good Foundation presents Live Kind, which include a series of interactive workshops like coffee brewing, latte art to snack making and tasting sessions. You can also  shop for some artisanal coffee, tea and snacks at The Good Market. Live ethically, effortlessly with these sustainable businesses from across Asia that will be showcasing a range of socially conscious coffee, organic snacks, and all natural skincare products.

Also get yourself some goodies by completing a list of tasks on the Live Kind Passport, but you got to register on the link first or at the festival!

Check out their website before you go down, over here.

Hook me up with some Caffeine!

This year, Singapore Coffee Festival boasts over 100 partners and exhibitors, from commercial brands to local coffee brewers. Get yourself some classic and curated roasts by various cafes (I went for Brawn & Brains’ Natural and Kochere coffee mixes (served in a pourover). Personally I preferred the natural for its berry taste and acidity! Otherwise, get some cold brews such as by Lorgan and Sons and 1degreec, or Coffee in a Cone by Coffee Academics just to name a few. Some festival exclusives are also available, such as Hyde & Co, whom are selling its cold brew iced teas in bottled form for the first time at $8 each, while Tiong Hoe Specialty Coffee will be launching a special blend of coffee beans. There are also international specials like the Japan Roast (I love their Kenyan roasts) and Shiseido boutique are also here to show off some international love!

Do also check out the second level of the exhibition (there’s escalators and elevators available) where you can find coffee making paraphernalia for sale, and also Owa Coffee by Mandai & Wildlife Reserves Singapore, which is grown by Javanese farmers in an wildlife-friendly manner and protects the Javan silvery Gibbons, which is threatened by deforestation from practices such as coffee-growing. You can also participate in (you need to register online first) different workshops like Lab Sessions @ The Lab by Common Man Roasters.

Check out the different sections of the exhibition, such as a local Kopi Corner designed by Daniel Boey featuring Ya Kun Kaya Toast, and the sunset wharf where you can find Hyde & Co and Symmetry along with a power packed line-up of musical performances throughout the festival, featuring acts like local singers Inch Chua, Jawn , indie rock band Stopgap, and producer Tim De Cotta. I’d recommend chilling there, by the seaside, to end the night with your favourite beverage! For me it was the coffee pale ale (beer) by Brawn & Brains!

For a whole list of participating cafes and brands, click here!

Coffee Alternatives

Wished you had a better tolerance to caffeine (unlike me) and want to take a break from the coffee? There’s also plenty of options such as the flower teas by SWATi, Strawberry Oolong Tea by Boba Brew, and many more! Hungry? There’s also plenty of food choices, such as the watermelon soft serve (eat it fast, it melts really quick!) and Rendang Mac & Cheese with Ayam Keluak Kueh Pie Tee by Arbite. Check out the friendly magazine that’s available if you ever get spoilt for choice!

#Covfefe or Bust

Hope you people enjoy this year’s Singapore Coffee Festival like I had. As drinking a large amount of coffee does have a diuretic effect, be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, and avoid it on a completely empty stomach!

More Information

Singapore Coffee Festival 2017 By The Straits Times and DBS Bank
Marina Bay Cruise Centre – Getting There
61 Marina Coastal Drive
Singapore 018947
Tickets here

 


Many thanks to The Straits Times & DBS for inviting!

Jules Taylor Wines Singapore Launch

Just a couple of weeks ago, we were invited to the Singapore launch of Jules Taylor Wines at ONE°15 Marina, Sentosa Cove. From Marlborough, New Zealand,  this namesake winery started as and is still a boutique, family-owned-and-run company. Launched in 2001 with just 200 cases of Pinot Gris and Riesling, it has grown to include several other varieties, including Jules’ award winning Sauvignon Blanc. Joined by her husband George, another experienced winemaker with more than 18 years of experience (that adds up to at least 40 years of wine-making between them!), they also eventually launched George’s own collection, aptly named ‘The Better Half’. More on that!

WOK°15 Kitchen at ONE°15 Marina

Lauded as “Singapore’s Top Restaurant” by Wine & Dine, WOK°15 Kitchen radiates the spirit of the sea by featuring fresh live seafood for selection from the aquarium. With Executive Chef Chum Kar Ho leading the line, WOK°15 Kitchen showcases exquisite yet hearty Cantonese cuisine that, with its complex and rich flavours, will allure palates and satisfy even the most discerning and picky gastronomes. Presenting cuisines that are faithful to the traditional cooking techniques of Cantonese dining, expect only the most exalted flavours with an emphasis on premium seafood and uniquely crafted dishes.

We were treated to a really generous tasting menu by WOK°15, such as their appetiser which includes signature deep fried fish skin with salted egg yolk (黄金炸鱼皮) and sautéed pork belly with special sauce(妙酱烧肉); deep fried marble goby served with deluxe soya sauce (油浸顺壳鱼), sautéed beef cubes with garlic flakes (蒜片牛柳粒), and the star of the day, Singapore Chilli Crab with ried mantou (特制辣椒蟹伴炸馒头)! Okay enough talking for a bit, enjoy the pictorial break!

With fine food comes fine wine as well, in epicurean style. We had a wide variety of wines to pair with, but we especially loved the award winning Jules Taylor Wines Sauvignon Blanc. Without rambling on too much on the vintage, the concentrated of citrus and passionfruit flavour notes also carries subtle hints of fresh summer herbs with lemongrass. These linger on your palate, giving a long well-rounded finish to the wine without feeling too dry after. Grouped with fresh and well-prepared seafood, it is a perfect pairing!

All Aboard the ANKA by ONE°15 Marina

After a scrumptious lunch we were brought on board the ANKA, a mid-sized luxurious yacht courtesy of ONE°15 Marina. On deck we were graced with a presentation by George Elworthy (Jules Taylor’s husband), CEO of Jules Taylor Wines and Laura Grey, Deputy High Commissioner of New Zealand for Singapore. As explained the wines on offer were basically categorised into 3 groups; the classic, premium and elite; each represented by The Better Half, Jules Taylor (the wine collection) and “On The Quiet”, which is a reserve range of single vineyard wines by Jules, released in very limited volumes.

Out of all we felt the Pinot Noir was undoubtedly the most memorable. With wonderfully intense fruit flavours seamlessly balanced with soft, velvety tannins, it gives off a potpourri of aromas; ripe dark fruit, cherry and plum are layered over subtle oaky notes. Which is what we would expect of a Pinot Noir, complex but very easy to drink over just about anything you want to pair it with (went well with the scallops and other light bites served on board by WOK°15 Kitchen as well)!

So that was a really fruitful (and fruity, geddit, fruity notes #dadjokes) afternoon, albeit dampened slightly by poor weather. Many thanks to ONE°15 Marina and Jules Taylor Wines for putting together a feast!

More Information

Jules Taylor Wines
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Price range for the wines are from $60-$80 for The Better Half and Jules Taylor, to about $100-110 for On the Quiet. For more information, visit their website or contact  the local Singapore distributor, SUTL Consumer Goods. I’d recommend you look at their full list of wines at their page here, or the gallery below. Currently they’re available at both of  ONE°15 Marina Club’s restaurants, Wheeler’s Yard, Post Bar at Fullerton Hotel and Temasek Club, just to name a few!

 

WOK°15 Kitchen
Level 1, ONE°15 Marina
Sentosa Cove, 11 Cove Drive
Singapore 098497
Lunch:
Tuesday – Saturday 11.30am – 2.30pm
Sunday & Public Holiday 11.30am – 2.30pm
Dinner:
Tuesday – Sunday & Public Holiday 6pm – 10pm
CLOSED ON MONDAYS
Reservations; call 6305 6998 or email at wok15@one15marina.com
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BONUS CONTENT

Beat the heat this National Day with the Red and White Pool Party. Featuring DJ Daniel Benjamin, DJ Patrick Olivier and DJ Maverick on the decks, be prepared to move to the groove of the fresh beats from day to night while immersing in the view of surrounding multi-million dollar superyachts, right at ONE°15 Marina Club. Tickets information as below on the poster.

As part of National Day celebrations, they’re also having a promotion for the aforementioned chilli crab at WOK°15 Kitchen, where it is $6++ per 100 grams (usual price at $8++ per 100 grams) for the whole month of August! That’s not all, there’s also a 1-for-1 Singapore Sling promotion at their bar, Bar Nebula! Talk about the good life!

 


 


This post is brought to you together with ONE°15 Marina and WOK°15 Kitchen, and Jules Taylor WInes. Picture and stomach space credits to Jon.