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calvintimo
This is calvintimo living in Tiong Bahru. I am a Executive, work in Orchard. I like to hang out in Dempsey Rd, Holland, Orchard. Italian, Japanese, Korean, Thai are my favorite cuisines. I also love Café, Hotel, Restaurant, Chillout Bar and Pasta, Dim Sum, Sushi/Sashimi, Tiramisu!.
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Categories : Australian / New Zealand | Café

Situated in the recently renovated Mandarin Gallery amidst other upscale restaurants, Jones the Grocer has caused quite a talk in town for having good weekend brunch. However, I happened to be in Orchard road one night and decided to try out their dinner, which is available from 6 to 10pm daily. There wasn't a crowd in the restaurant but they seemed under-staffed when I visited them for dinner on a weekday. It stood at the entrance for 5 minutes before I was seated by the French lady manager whom doesn't seem too friendly with a stern looking face.
Seared Scallop on Chorizo Soria ($15.50)

Seared Scallop on Chorizo Soria ($15.50)

 
Putting poor service aside, I ordered the Seared Scallop on Chorizo Soria ($15.50) for the entree. The lovely scallops are beautiful seared on the surface and it remained juicy and sweet within. It’s a different case for the chorizo soria, a traditional Spanish sausage, it was really tough to the bite and it’s a little too salty for my liking. Served with watercress & fennel salad in the center, this dish is as good as a light main course. Topped with saffron aioli, it complements the scallops and salad pretty well.
Jones Open Wagyu Beef Burger ($26.50)

Jones Open Wagyu Beef Burger ($26.50)

 
For my main course, the Jones Open Wagyu Beef Burger ($26.50) was a delectable delight which I fell in love with. The secret to this dish is in their Jones balsamic onion jam which gives another dimension of flavour to the burger. Served with everybody’s favourite wedges, roasted tomato and rocket salad, this is sure a hearty and balance main course. Oh, did I not mention the homemade-style wagyu beef patty is so tasty, succulent and heavenly to every bite? With the melted cheese on it, this wagyu beef burger is simply to die for. No wonder this is one of their signature dishes. I would highly recommend this to beef lovers.
Tiramisu ($8.50)

Tiramisu ($8.50)

 
I was very excited with joy when I saw that they have Tiramisu ($8.50) as it’s one my favourite dessert. Being a sweet tooth addict, I couldn’t resist but to order it. Served in a tiny glass bottle, it looks exquisite and attractive to the eyes. After tasting a spoonful of it, I feel that it tasted a little too creamy but still passable. Honestly, I feel that it could have been better with a smoother texture.
Jones Special Hot Chocolate ($6.50)

Jones Special Hot Chocolate ($6.50)

 
Being unsatisfied with my Tiramisu earlier on, I hope this Jones Special Hot Chocolate ($6.50) will impress my night. According to the menu, it uses 100% cacao from single origin plantations around the world including Indonesia, Venezuela & Colombia. Indeed, the taste of the hot chocolate is strong but not as creamy as I expected it to be. I can taste that they use skimmed milk, which lacks the flavour and texture compared to using full cream milk.

Overall, I will say that Jones the Grocer serve up quite a nice dinner provided you know what to order on their menu. It is also a very comfortable, casual place to dine without the noisy crowd unlike some other casual restaurants. However, the service staff I encountered was rude, unfriendly and took quite long to notice me when I wanted to order. After tasted their dinner menu, I will definitely love to try their weekend brunch as many are raving about it.
 
Recommended Dish(es):  Seared Scallop on Chorizo Soria,Jones Open Wagyu Beef Burger,Jones Special Hot Chocolate
 
Spending per head: Approximately $25(Dinner)

Other Ratings:
Taste
 3  |  
Environment
 4  |  
Service
 2  |  
Clean
 5  |  
Price
 3

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Yummy Piping Hot Steamed Buns! Smile Jul 31, 2013   
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Categories : Shanghainese | Dim Sum

The name of this casual Chinese restaurant speaks for itself at what it specializes in. It’s none other than its steamed buns or also known as ‘xiao long bao’. Headed by executive chef, Chef Yee Chong Wah with over 30 years of experience in Chinese cuisine. Not only it serves steamed buns but it has a variety of other Chinese cuisines from the province of Shanghai.

I visited Nanxiang for dinner and although the restaurant was crowded, the staff put on a megawatt smile at the door and seated me at a corner of the restaurant, perfect for a conducive meal with my friend. We didn't what to order and the waitress recommended us a few dishes that will suit our preference too!
Fresh Pork Filling Steamed Bun (6pcs for $6)

Fresh Pork Filling Steamed Bun (6pcs for $6)

 
How can you say that you’ve dined at Nanxiang Steamed Buns without tasting their signature dish, the Fresh Pork Filling Steamed Bun (6pcs for $6)? This is the authentic Nanxiang xiaolongbao have gained popularity throughout Shanghai over the last century. Since it’s now here in Singapore, what are you waiting for? Get ready to sink you teeth into piping hot steamed buns that you will crave for more after each bite!
Jelly Fish with Spicy Vinegar ($6.80)

Jelly Fish with Spicy Vinegar ($6.80)

 
Doesn’t this look like the jelly fish often seen in Chinese cold dishes? Being one of the new item on the menu, the Jelly Fish with Spicy Vinegar ($6.80) uses the head of the jelly fish unlike other Chinese restaurants which uses the tentacles. By using this premium part of the jelly fish, it will give an additional crunch to this appetizing dish.
Vermicelli with Crab Roe ($12.80)

Vermicelli with Crab Roe ($12.80)

 
This dish, the Vermicelli with Crab Roe ($12.80) is a reinvention of a home-style dish with a Shanghainese touch to it by adding in their favourite ingredient, the Crab Roe, to give it a sweet and mouth-watering taste. I am so addicted to it that I can finish up the entire dish by myself. Perfect for both young and old, this is so good that you can have it alone as a main course.

If you're looking for a casual Chinese restaurant to dine, it need not to be a 8 or 9 course dinner that costs a bomb. Head over to Nan Xiang for homely fare that will touch your heart and stomach too. The young, modern and casual ambiance and decor makes it very informal and is a perfect place for families, friends and business partners to dine over good value delicious Chinese dishes that is both visually appealing and tasty. smile
 
Recommended Dish(es):  Fresh Pork Filling Steamed Bun,Jelly Fish with Spicy Vinegar,Vermicelli with Crab Roe
 
Spending per head: Approximately $18(Dinner)

Other Ratings:
Taste
 4  |  
Environment
 4  |  
Service
 5  |  
Clean
 4  |  
Price
 4

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Categories : Italian | Pasta

Holland Village is full of good eats and hidden finds but you can't miss out Crust Pizza to go along with some ice cold beer on a weekend night with good company.
Chef Peter Augoustis

Chef Peter Augoustis

 
Founded by Chef Peter Augoustis, Creative Chef of Crust Pizza, who also won the International Championship at the Pizza Expo in Las Vegas in 2007, six of his pizzas have won the Australian National Heart Foundation Tick of Approval for its low saturated and trans-fat, sodium, and high fibre content. That means, you can indulge in quality pizza ensuring they use the freshest ingredients they can find!
Crust Supreme Pizza $25

Crust Supreme Pizza $25

 
I enjoyed the Crust Supreme Pizza ($25) which is their signature pizza. Who can resist the generous variety of ingredients such as Smoked Ham, Pepperoni, Italian Sausage, Mushrooms, Fresh Green Peppers, Spanish Onions, Pineapple & Kalamata Olives piled on top of the thin crispy crust? This is one of the most classic pizza around and also an all time favourite for many.
Seafood Pizza ($28)

Seafood Pizza ($28)

 
Seafood lovers like me can't miss out the Seafood Pizza ($28) which has lots of fresh and succulent Marinated Tiger Prawns, Scallops, Mussels. The flavours of the tomato base sauce complemented the seafood toppings very well. Topped with fresh herbs and lemon, it actually heighten the flavour of the sweet and juicy seafood!
Five Spice Pork Belly ($25)

Five Spice Pork Belly ($25)

 
Fancy something Chinese yet still love induling on a crisp slice of pizza? The Five Spice Pork Belly ($25) pizza was what my friend I had ordered as it is rarely seen. It has a very Asian touch to it with pork belly slices marinated in the five spices overnight. The pear slices, wild rocket and balsamic glaze gave this pizza a rather unique flavour, a juxtapose of East meets West.

They have many other popular pizzas too like Wagyu Prawn and Salmon Benedict. Looks like I have to return another time to try them all. I enjoyed the cosy ambiance of this casual restaurant as I could sit by the side-walk and enjoy the sights and sounds of Holland Village. Service here was very friendly too with staffs smiling and coming by our dining table to ask if everything is ok with the pizza. Crust Pizza is one place worth chilling out if you do not like noisy atmosphere like the Wala Wala pub nearby.
 
Recommended Dish(es):  Crust Supreme Pizza,Seafood Pizza,Five Spice Pork Belly
 
Spending per head: Approximately $25(Dinner)

Other Ratings:
Taste
 4  |  
Environment
 4  |  
Service
 5  |  
Clean
 5  |  
Price
 3

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Late Night Dining at Zam Zam OK Jul 30, 2013   
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Categories : Indian | Halal

One night, I was hanging out with my friends around Bugis area and as it was getting late, most restaurants were close except for some steamboat restaurant. Not being able to stomach a buffet of food late at night, we decided to head over to Zam Zam for some affordable soul food that not only fills our stomach but must be good too.

Located just opposite Sultan Mosque, there was a huge sign outside that says Zam Zam that is impossible to miss. We stepped into the eatery and went upstairs to be seated as it was warm and stuffy on the ground floor where all the kitchen action was taking place. No surprise it was crowded as this is one of the popular eateries around.
Teh Tarik ($1)

Teh Tarik ($1)

 
Being hungry, I couldn't resist ordering a glass of Teh Tarik ($1) to warm my stomach up for delicious food to come. It was frothy with a good layer of foam at the top. It tasted smooth with a nice aroma of tea without being too overpowering with the sweet condense milk.
Egg Prata ($2)

Egg Prata ($2)

 
I waited awhile for the Egg Prata ($2) to be served and it does look interesting, I must say. The egg yolk was concentrated on 1 side of the prata and the other side doesn't have a bit of egg. It does seem weird but well, I get to taste the original and with egg by paying for the price of 1 egg prata. No complaints as the portion was huge! lol
Mee Goreng ($3.50)

Mee Goreng ($3.50)

 
However, the Mee Goreng ($3.50) looks better in presentation as the colour looks appetizing. With the chilli paste and aroma mixed nicely with bits of egg around the noodles, it tasted delicious too. The Mee Goreng may seem good but could be a little oily for some. There goes a saying, “good things comes with a price!" tongue
Chicken Brayani ($4.50)

Chicken Brayani ($4.50)

 
My friend had the Chicken Brayani ($4.50) which I felt that the standard has dropped over time. Previously, the chicken was bigger and meat of it was tender and moist. This round the chicken was tough and dry and the brayani rice wasn't that fragrant at all.

Despite some hits and misses, I felt that the service at Zam Zam can be further improved too with the wait staffs being more attentive to customers who wants to make orders and the time for food to be served can be cut down.
However, the price of the food is affordable and is one of the cosy and homely spot for late night supper!
 
Recommended Dish(es):  Egg Prata,Mee Goreng
 
Spending per head: Approximately $5(Supper)

Other Ratings:
Taste
 3  |  
Environment
 3  |  
Service
 2  |  
Clean
 2  |  
Price
 5

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Peranakan Food from the Heart Smile Jul 28, 2013   
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Categories : Peranakan / Nonya | Restaurant | Kids-Friendly

Last week, I brought my friend to The Patio for lunch as she mentioned that she is 1/8th Peranakan that came from her great-grandma. Being 1/8th peranakan, she has mastered some of her dishes herself and enjoys her great-grandma's cooking. Since rarely I've got a chance to try traditional Nonya dishes, we decided to do lunch over at The Patio and allow my friend to share with me some of the "must-have" nonya favourites!
The Patio

The Patio

 
Tucked away along a stretch of shophouses at Greenwood Avenue located along Bukit Timah, this enclave of cafes, bistros and restaurants thrive mostly on weekday dinner and weekend crowd as it was very quiet on a weekday noon. It was my first time to The Patio and locating it wasn't difficult thanks to the colourful signboard that caught my attention as well as the HUGE "PERANAKAN" banner hung outside. I knew I am in for a mouth-watering, lip-smacking lunch with signature dishes printed on the banner at the entrance.
Itek Tim ($18)

Itek Tim ($18)

 
Warming up our tummies, we had the Itek Tim ($18) recommended by owner, Kelvin. The huge pot of soup served in a claypot kept at a nice constant temperature as we dine. I enjoyed it as the soup wasn't too salty and the mix of salted vegetables and tomatoes were very appetizing. What's more, I was very surprise at the generous portion of duck which bones slipped off from the meat so easily. A lot of effort must have went into brewing this fantastic homely soup. 2 thumbs up! lol
Nonya Ngoh Hiang ($5)

Nonya Ngoh Hiang ($5)

 
Something for us to nibble on before the mains were served, my friend wanted me to try the Nonya Ngoh Hiang ($5) which is different from those "crappy low class" ones served at vegetable rice stores. Served with a sticky sweet sauce at the side, I must say this nonya's version of 5 spice minced pork roll is the REAL DEAL which you have to try! THe quality minced pork used was lean, has a nice bite with a hint of 5 spice aroma. Unlike those cheap ones where they stuff flour into it. Oh, the bean curd skin was thin yet managed to keep those mince pork nicely wrapped. I must sneak into the kitchen to steal the recipe from owner-chef, Emily, one of these days! tongue

[VDO:5]
Ayam Buah Keluak ($15)

Ayam Buah Keluak ($15)

 
Here comes the highlight and soul of nonya cuisine, the Ayam Buah Keluak ($15). The first thing that got my attention was the huge black oval looking things that doesn't look too appetizing. Known as the Buah Keluak, these Indonesian black nuts are notorious and has an acquired taste. Being adventurous, my dining partner taught me how to eat it, by digging out the sticky black stuffs within with a tiny spatula provided and mash it up with white rice and eat it. It tasted nutty, sour and has a slight after taste of bitter pistachio. Not too bad, I thought! The dish was accompanied by stir-fried chicken in assam and chilli paste so it has mild spicy-sour flavour. If you need one 1 meat to go along with your rice, this would be the one!
Babi Pongteh ($15)

Babi Pongteh ($15)

 
I'm not too much of a fan of pork belly but this Babi Pongteh ($15) is highly recommended too. Braised with mushroom and potato stew, I thought this will be as oily as the Chinese braised pork belly. To my surprise, it wasn't that bad when I sank my teeth into the tender, succulent pork belly that many out there would die for. The meat retained it's flavour yet embraced the sweetness of the mushroom. I couldn't resist but helped myself to a second slice of these oh-so-heavenly braised pork belly. Mmmmm....

Although my dining partner still prefer her great-grandma's cooking, both of us agreed that the food here was good nevertheless. We enjoyed ourselves and the owners, husband and wife team, Kelvin and Emily, came out to chat with us to ask for our feedback on their food. Emily revealed that she is a Peranakan and these are her family recipes as she cooks these for her family at times. The service staff was very proactive as we get our glasses of ice water refilled frequently.

If i'm craving for Peranakan food some other day, I'm definitely heading back for more. Maybe for some Bakwan Kepting Soup, Rempah Udang and Chap Chye. smile
 
Recommended Dish(es):  Itek Tim,Nonya Ngoh Hiang,Ayam Buah Keluak,Babi Pongteh
 
Date of Visit: Jul 25, 2013 

Spending per head: Approximately $20(Lunch)

Other Ratings:
Taste
 4  |  
Environment
 4  |  
Service
 5  |  
Clean
 5  |  
Price
 3

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