We finally had a chance to try out Gurney Drive since its opening at JEM (we had a 1-for-1 voucher for this). Sadly, the experience fell short of our expectation – overpriced Penang fare that's only worth during promotion...

Penang Laksa ($6.95+)
Although they were quite generous with their ingredients (especially the mackerel), the soup tasted rather blend and lacked the fragrance and punch we were yearning for. Thankfully the noodles were not too bad and quite springy. Penang Prawn Noodles ($7.95+)
The soup base was not too bad though it could have been richer and stronger in flavour. The ingredients were fresh; but again, the natural sweetness and essence of these ingredients somehow did not seep into the soup base. It felt rather distinct (soup base vs other ingredients) and lacked harmony in texture and taste. Not a place we would likely patronise again when we could get something much better just across the causeway and at less than a fraction of what we were paying (unless of course there's another not-to-be-missed promotion ;)).

After a disappointing visit a couple of months back at their Jcube outlet (which we had feedback through their survey portal), we were pleasantly surprised that their marketing team actually took our comments seriously and even offered some vouchers as a token of appreciation.

We decided to try out their other outlet at The Central this time round. Although the overall experience was way better than our previous visit, we concluded that Chili's is not the place for good steak anymore. We order the identical item for a apple-to-apple comparison. The beef was definitely fresher and more tender. However, we realised that their steak was no longer flame grilled but rather pan-seared instead. This probably explained the lack of the smoky fragrant and bittersweet aftertaste that used to captivate us.

We'll probably give their Fajitas a try the next time we visit again (to utilise the balance voucher).

Yet another tourist trap selling extremely overpriced local food. But since we were already there and had some F&B vouchers to spare, we decided to try out some of their signature dishes.

Century Egg & Pork Porridge ($4.20+)
A really small portion of porridge that could barely fill our tummies. The porridge was quite blend and lacked the smooth, thick texture expected of any Cantonese porridge.Hakka Yong Tou Fu ($12.80+)
Nothing authentic at all. The portion was small, with only 1 piece of stuffed tofu, chili, brinjal, bitter gourd, lady's finger and beancurd warp each. The taste of the sauce was average and lacked fragrance and the natural sweetness of soy bean. Trio Roasted Platter – Charsiew + Roast Duck + Rose Soy Chicken ($18.80+)
The better of the 3 dishes we ordered. The Charsiew was well marinated and had the right balance of fatty and lean meat; the roast duck was quite tasty and tender, the chicken was soft and not too dry. Overall, a pretty decent dish although still a far cry from those famous roast specialist. Not really worth the money I would say. For those visiting the River Safari or Zoo, you'll probably be better off lunching at KFC

Yet another Japanese dining outlet to invade Bukit Panjang Plaza - alongside Ichiban Boshi, Bishamon, Sushi Deli etc... However, the quality of food was really mediocre and to be honest, I would very much prefer Long John Silver's (the former tenant) to stay!

Charshu Raman with Gyoza Set ($11.90++)
The Raman was nowhere comparable to Bishamon's offerings! The soup base was rather blend and the charshu slices lacked the fragrance and texture essential of any decent Raman. The noodles were pretty unimpressionable as well.

As for the Gyozas, which were supposedly a signature must-try and star dish of the outlet, it was utterly disappointing. Over-burnt, small, and lacking moisture in the meat fillings, I really do not see any special about it! The only saving grace was the special ponzu sauce dipping which added some zest to the otherwise plain tasting gyozas.

Not an outlet I would patronise often unless there's some special promotions in store!

This is one really beautiful and charming place for a romantic date – midst the whimsical fairy-tale like ambience and atmosphere. However, underneath the splendour of its facade lies an unpalatable dining experience that left us disenchanted. Service was horrendous and aloof (especially from this particular Singaporean waitress that served us; the Filipino waitress was quite friendly though). The Singaporean waitress even argued with us over some payment issues and was quite hostile.

Caesar Salad with Smoked Salmon ($17++)
A very basic starter that couldn't really go wrong. The credit goes to the poached egg which was nicely done. For the reader's info, we had actually requested for salad without dressing, and thus the rather "bare" front. Duck Leg Confit ($28++)
Sub-par quality main that marred the overall rating of this otherwise enchanting place. The Duck Leg Confit was very salty and dry – the quality couldn't even match up to those canned version. The layer of fats was totally unappetising as it was lumpy and cold. Overall, a really disappointing dish that should be avoided at all cost. Mango & Passion Fruit Sorbet ($6++)
The sorbet was a refreshing twist to our unpalatable main. However, the strawberry slices, which were tainted with a pungent garlicky taste, totally ruined it! The chef seriously needs to be more meticulous and mindful when handling the fresh ingredients! I was appalled by this lack of attention and professionalism in the food handling process

Tiramisu ($11++)
The same strawberry was used for this otherwise tantalising dessert (thankfully there was only 1 slice). The Tiramisu was the best item we had that meal and in a way, deflected some of our negativity towards this place. The moist and rich layer of coffee-infused ladyfingers with mascarpone was surprising airy and light. A definite must try!