https://thechosenglutton.wordpress.com/2011/02/04/jones-the-grocer-i-am-the-eater/

Quietly seated at Mandarin Gallery, Level 4, is the underrated Jones the Grocer. It sure isn’t designed like an ordinary restaurant set, what with racks of items for sale (eg. cups, chocolates, coffee beans etc.), a near-symmetrical design – with a counter each on your left and right, while the center area is reserved for dining. It basically adopts a different kind of ambience and setting – not like your everyday restaurant with dim and comfortable lighting and the likes. This uniqueness, for one, gives me the feeling of being home away from home. It gives me the vibe that I’m not dining in Singapore (also thanks to the ‘high-class’ Mandarin Gallery vibe), and that is surely an experience.

Simple yet soothing to your eyes, the furnishing is one of a kind in a restaurant. No sofa, no cushion seating. It’s pretty fresh a change, once in a while. There are writings (of the menu) on the blackboard – those are which you can’t find in the menu, so you might want to take a look at it, especially for the brunch and breakfast dishes. Timings for the brunch and breakfast are also stated on the board itself. Below it are pastries (cakes, macarons, brioche, muffins etc.) laid out neatly at the counter. It’s not on either of the menu, so you might want to take a walk along the counter before ordering anything on the menu (because the display might just make you full already, just like how they did to me!). On the other side of the restaurant (ie. the other counter), they serve wine and cheese and such, a different side of breakfast that Singaporeans rarely do try. I myself have yet to have a breakfast like such, although I should really give it a shot one day.Traditional Hot Chocolate ($5.00) :: There probably isn’t any better way to kick start a breakfast with a cup of (beautiful) hot chocolate. The marshmallow is like a cherry on top of a pie. It’s definitely a decent drink – it’s just too bad that on both my visits there, they’ve had their ‘Jones Special Hot Chocolate’ ran out. Shame.Tomato Mozzarella & Basil Sandwich ($13.50) :: I love how it is presented – on a wooden ‘chopping board’, very sleek and authentic-looking. See, food is like wine. it’s not just about how it tastes, but how it looks, and smells (the latter two comes even before you taste it). It’s like imprinting a good first impression. Even though the sandwich isn’t top-notched, it is acceptable what with the price, and the portion being reasonable too. Just like most other sandwiches, eating it with a knife and fork might get a little messy. Hah.Coconut Pancakes ($14.50) :: Embrace yourself, because when the plate of coconut pancakes arrive in front of you, you’ll go ga-ga and melt with the smell of the coconut and the pancakes, mixed together. The slightly burnt sides of the pancakes, ironically, makes it even better – the smell probably came off stronger than when it’s well-done, and it would then not have a slightly crispy sides to it too. The ice cream and mildly sour mango cubes make the pancakes less ‘gelat’, even though at the end of the day, I still couldn’t finish the two thick slices of pancakes. It’s a little too much on a morning. With that being said, what would be perfect would be to order that and share it with a friend of yours – each a piece, and voila! Perfecto!French Macarons (Chocolate) ($5.50) :: It’s $2/piece, $5.50/3 pieces. Of course, me being a macaron-addict, I couldn’t help myself but to buy down 3 pieces of the macarons that were calling out to me from behind the display window. If I were to compare the macarons, Jewels Artisan Chocolate > Jones the Grocer > Bakerzin. So, tada. Not too bad anyhows.Chocolate Tart ($6.50) :: I know what’s on your mind – this tart looks dry and hard, and would probably be fake-chocolate-tasting. Aha, the exact same thought that went through my mind when I saw this. But give it a chance and you’ll realize that its looks are actually deceiving. You have been tricked – it’s anything but the aforementioned description. PS: The white sugar on top is placed just for beautifying-of-the-tart purpose.Tiramisu ($7.50) :: In my opinion, this is quite a good tiramisu done. Many a time, tiramisu is substantiated more by the coffee taste than the cocoa’s/liqor’s. In this case, I thought it was well mixed, and for me, I love how equally it tasted, and so I’m pro-Jones the Grocer tiramisu dessert.

Even though the main courses aren’t as fantabulous as the drink / desserts, I still give Jones the Grocer a full 4 stars (✰✰✰✰), thanks to the contributing factors of unique ambience and setting, very friendly staff and more than awesome, less than excellent food. It’s definitely worth a re-visit for me (for breakfast / brunch menu).

—> Note #1: All prices stated are already inclusive of GST & Service Charge. Nett prices.

My idea of a high tea session is one that is with the perfect peaceful and tranquil setting; one that you can wind down to and just sit there for a good couple of hours. Axis Bar & Lounge @ Mandarin Oriental Singapore exudes just that ambience, offering high tea sessions from 3pm, in this bold yet elegant blanket of black and deep shades of brown and red. It feels warm, spacious yet cozy.Engaging a live pianist in the house is a sweet sweet icing on the cake. That afternoon, she played Seal’s ‘Kiss From A Rose’ and also a song from Adele. It’s even more cool, because we can actually make a song request. Aw.1688 Grand Rosé ($18++ / glass; $98++ / bottle): The first in Singapore, this salmon-pink non-alcoholic champagne calls for a mid-day lounging session just about now. It is most befitting for people with a love-hate relationship with champagne, like me; loves champagne, hates alcohol. I don’t drink because I have the Asian blush, and it doesn’t feel good. Now, this is one serious bubbly alternative I can enjoy without worry.

It is a full-bodied champagne, enhanced with red fruit notes and some subtlety of natural Muscat flavors, a girl’s favorite, especially. Further, it is a relatively healthier option, what with the inclusion of only natural ingredients and no added sugar.Exclusively for the month of September 2013, the Chef has creatively infused 1688 Grand Rosé into some of the high tea snacks, while having the remaining complement the creations. The Luxury September Bubbly Afternoon Tea Set is a 5-course tea set which involves the 3-tier spread and only costs $42++. To pair it with the non-alcoholic champagne itself will be at the above-stated price.See, it’s really quite a snatch, and I love that the high tea set is enough to last me throughout the afternoon (provided I don’t start swallowing them). If you want to do a trade with your dining companion, let me tell you what is great. The Champagne Chocolate Lollipop is literally a party in your mouth when you bite through. The chocolate with hints of champagne just fireworks in your mouth. Rich and thick.

The Truffle-Scented Egg & Chive Petite Sandwich, need I say more. It really isn’t just scented, you can actually taste it. And it’s without fail, orgasmic. Whatever next couple of dishes would be truffle-y too.

I personally adore the combination of Lemon & Thyme (Scone). The herb lifts the flavors and hits the nose pleasantly too.

Everything on the rectangular plate was good, from Smoked Salmon Mousse to Marinated Lobster to Porcini Mushroom. It is very much the ‘posh’ plate. Have the Porcini Mushroom Tart the last, as it gives no chance but fills your entire mouth with the flavors of mushrooms. Heavenly.Though not situated on high grounds, it is a blessing that it bears an unblocked view of the Raffles Place / Marina Bay skyline. Just imagine the sight when the sun sets, coupled with the thoughtfully decorated interior. Perfectly romantic.

http://thechosenglutton.wordpress.com/2011/10/26/jitter-glitter-antoinette/

They say the lower the capacity of a restaurant, the more luxurious it is. Which is most generally true. Antoniette, though it looks puny and petty in appearance, this French restaurant sure does the opposite of the description by taking us with a a bang. Having already heard so much about it before finally getting my hands mouth on it, there couldn’t possibly be any parts of it that could have disappointed. Even with the ridiculous queue and waiting time, we were persistent on getting in. Mind you, we were already the first in line with the three of us, but most seats are catered for twos, so we waited for three-quarter of an hour. When we were eventually ushered to our seats, I understood why people refused to give up their comfortable and home-y seats.

Even though the menu was limited, we took our time to browse through it and get soaked in the moment – like a princess does on most occasions. Oh, just kidding.

Baguette :: The presentation was enough to fill my satisfaction. I mean, just look at those little jars of chocolate and butter that you just want to take it as yours. It makes eating some mundane pastries more enjoyable. The baguette itself, though was forgettable – nothing bad, nothing good.Iced Chocolate ($7.50++) :: This has to be the best Iced Chocolate I’ve ever tasted. It’s thick(er than blood – Advanced Happy Halloween!), so flavorful, yet not hurting to the throat, it’s like the best combination for a drink. No one should be giving this a miss; At least I know I wouldn’t, the next time I’m there.

Marinara ($24++) :: I must say I’ve never been a fan of tomato-based pasta (or anything in general). But this that I’ve tried, didn’t in any way give me the icky tomato feeling. Topped with some of my favorite seafood – mussels, scallops, prawns and squids, it’s an ‘ok’ even for non-tomato-lovers. Heck if you’re a tomato-based pasta lover, I doubt there’d be any issue with this.

Wild Mushroom Risotto ($24++) :: Coincidentally too, I’ve never been a fan of rice-based main courses (like Risotto / Paella). But once again, Antoinette proved me wrong. I actually find it quite appealing and appetizing, and it kind of gave me a turn – I recently had a Risotto as main dish myself. It really isn’t -that- powerful, but the point is, I guess it’s a good bet if you usually don’t eat them but would like to give it a try.

Boeuf Bourguignon ($32++) :: Braised beef brisket, in Burgundy style red wine. So no, this has no requirements for stating of the degree of rarity you’d like for it to be cooked. Even though a relatively small portion, it is with great pleasure throughout the process of completing the course. The meat is tender and soft, contrary to popular belief that beef meat is tough. Because the brisket muscles holds some 60% of the body weight, the lot of connective tissue requires perfect cooking to tenderize them, thus I must say, good job on it!

Macarons ($2.50++) :: Yes, guilty as charged. I wasn’t here for the main courses – I was attracted by their colorful and vibrant display of macarons. True that they are pricier than many other places, but their quality sure is directly proportionate too. After so long, finally Bakerzin and Jewels Artisan Chocolate have met its match.

A definite full 4-star (✰✰✰✰) for me. Good food. Good atmosphere. Good service too, for me, even with reviews stating otherwise. No qualms.

—> Note #1: Outlet here at Mandarin Gallery doesn’t take reservation, but the one at Lavender does. They have an outlet at Scarlet Hotel opening soon. I must say, what more appropriate location.

—> Note #2: Really, don’t ever go in a large group. If possible, stick to 2 especially when heading down to Mandarin Gallery’s outlet.

http://thechosenglutton.wordpress.com/2011/10/01/as-in-mediterranean-medzs/

Serving Mediterranean food (Turkish, Middle Eastern, Greek, French, Spanish, Italian..), Medzs can only be as appropriate for their restaurant name. I first read about this somewhere off the informative internet, and thought this needs to be tried out. It functions similar to that of Marché – a ‘credit card’ system where they basically swipe your card upon each order, so much that you just spend like it’s a buffet because you can’t see the figures (unless you calculate it on the spot). But that’s the beauty of it, enjoy now, worry later, haha. What’s better for Medzs is, they have an alarm system where it’ll vibrate and sound once your order is done. So that saves some energy of standing at the counter and waiting.

Oh yes – to add to that, they have the store names printed on it so you know where to go to, duh!

The ‘In-Use’ stone by the corner of the picture. It’s so cute we almost wanted to sneak it into our bag, pretending that it’s a souvenir for us for dining in. Heck, it suits the theme well, and it’s just good and cheap ideas but with substantial effect.Salad Mix Platter ($6+) :: It’s no ordinary salad that I’ve tried. I love the Eggplant, and thought this is a good break from the main courses from time to time, with added Pita Bread ($3+) that we ordered.Cod Fillet ($16+) :: Cod Fillet, the winning dish, hands down. I thought Marché’s grilled fishes weren’t too bad already, this was like, ‘Man, are you underpricing this’ The mashed potato was amazing, and likewise for the fresh fish on ice, cooked to perfection. There is no doubt that I’ll be trying out other fishes on ice that they have. Must try.Beef Hotplate with Lamb ($10.90+) :: Although the best combination of meat (oh yummy lamb and beef), it isn’t the best style cooked. I dislike the tomato-based nature (or anything tomato-based for the record, but still, enjoyed the smell and taste of the two awesome meat. If you don’t mind tomato, and love beef and lamb too, go for it.Smoked Salmon Sandwich ($8.90+) :: Love the wedges, love the salmon, just not the sandwich. It was too hard and not too nice to bite and swallow. I wouldn’t recommend any sandwiches here.Panfried Duck Leg Confit ($12+) :: I am drooling as we are speaking here. The meat was just well done, and the gravy, to die for. If there is one dish that you must order, it’s the Cod Fillet, and the Duck Leg Confit. Oh wait, that’s two, but who cares!

Just a warning that if you’re a first timer there, do not be overwhelmed by the choices you have – you’ll be spoilt for choices. Like I was. We literally walked round and round a couple of times before deciding to each order at least a dish and then we share. Can’t describe how blissful the feeling was when you were like having the whole restaurant to yourself. Hate the crowd, yes. Thank god it was empty when we were there.

Don’t you just love the design of it all. Furthermore, they have this 5% Bar that serves hundreds of different international beer. If you already have a beer belly, think no more and give it a try. The bar front is magnificent.

So even though not everything here is awesome, most are. Topped with the fact that it’s affordable. It’s a full 4 stars (✰✰✰✰) for me. I’m in the process of converting this to my new home (replacing Marché).

—> Note #1: When you’re done with your meal, proceed to the exit counter for payment with the Medzs card (don’t go asking for bill).

—> Note #2: Service charge is waived. So if you’re intending to calculate up the bill before heading over to the counter, remember to exclude the 10% Service Charge.

http://thechosenglutton.wordpress.com/2011/11/26/1-caramel-rochester-park/

riginally also located just beside The Cathay, it now only has two outlets – at the OUB Centre @ Raffles Place, and the other one, here, right where I was, at Rochester Park. I have no idea why they only have two outlets thus far, I fell in love the first time I patronized them years back. I thought their cakes are, although steep in their prices, but much enjoyable. But well, thankfully, their slices of cakes used to cost about $7 – $8 per piece, now it’s just $6. More reasons to visit them more often for desserts at this Dessert Boutique.

Ambience at anywhere in Rochester Park is more often than not, unquestionable. And 1-Caramel is no exception. Although it can only house up to 30 hungry guests at one go, I thought it’s pretty reasonable. To play safe though, you can always give them a call to check / make a reservation (I’ve no idea if they take them). Anyways, they are located at the second level of the building, right above One Rochester (Building 1, Rochester Park – if you drive in it’s right beside the entrance / carpark of Rochester Park).Instead of the usual white / brown sugar cubes placed in transparent glasses, it’s in a transparent bowl covered with something like a gourmet cover. At least it’s something different, something new to look at and play with while waiting for your order to be taken / served.Wild Mushroom Soup ($10++) :: Served with egg toasts, it might look a little pricey, but oh trust me, this one here is a winning dish. The soup has, for me, just the right amount of mushroom taste, and for Pringles, it’s ‘once you pop, you can’t stop’, but for this, it’s ‘once you sip, you start to down’. The egg toasts goes well with or without the soup, so it’s all good. You’ll be enjoying the course like I did with the rest of the table pink with envy.Traditional Eggs Benedict with Ham ($12++) :: If you compare the price with other breakfast cafes / restaurants, the one here is well below the average. But that being said, the quality reflects that too. Don’t get me wrong, it sure isn’t the worst of the crop, but it’s neither good / best. It’s only average, especially the English Muffin.

Creamy Scrambled Egg with German-style Sausage ($14++) :: Before anything, yes, it’s German-style PORK sausage. And it is just beyond words-awesome. I’ve never really savored a better tasting, more addicting sausage. So yes, for me, it’s a no brainer to order this if you’re both a scrambled egg and a sausage fan.Dessert Cakes ($6++ each) :: You can’t be coming to 1-Caramel and not have any cakes – it’s against the law. Chocolate lovers Dive straight to Chocolate Praline Cake. What makes it stand out like a sore thumb is its crispy biscuit-like base, it just goes so well with the cake. In summary, Chocolate Praline > Maltesers Cheesecake > Chocolate Berry Lust.

In a nutshell, if you’re looking for somewhere to have desserts, but not wanting those regular places like Swensen’s, Secret Recipe or Haagen Dazs, 1-Caramel is the place to be. Oh, be warned, you have to walk through its kitchen to the dining area once you’re up on Level 2. So don’t doubt yourself. You’ll know what I mean when you get there.