hotel Archives - With Love,

Hainan Story Opens 24hr Coffee House @ Hotel Boss with Medley of New Food

April 18, 2021maybeline

New food items include Hainanese Yuan Yang Satay with Peanut Sauce & Pineapple Sauce ($15 for 10 sticks). Available in pork and chicken options, they are not stingy on the meat port. Perfectly grilled morsels of meat comes with 2 dipping flavours – traditional peanut sauce and pineapple sauce made with well-loved Southeast Asian ingredients and spices.

Also new to the concept is the Hainanese Claypot Braised Pork Belly Set ($13.80) and White Kway Chap and Pork Meat Ball Trio Egg Pumpkin Porridge ($9.80, served with crispy ‘you tiao’). Wholesome and delicious, I wouldn’t complain at all if its served in the morning or night.

Other notable delights include Hainanese Swiss Roll ($3.80 – $6.80) Hainanese-in-law Banana Leaf Grilled Stingray ($18.80) Ah Kor Hainanese Lamb Stew with Crispy Noodle ($12.80) Mama Wee’s Curry Chicken Drumstick Set ($7.80) Bagel Spam & Egg Burger ($5.80)

The décor pays homage to the colourful, vibrant and lively Hainanese stage opera, with splashes of bright colours punctuated with humble wooden elements and marble tables. The new store also comes with a highly instagrammable stand with pixels of bright colours dressing the space.

Social Media Giveaway Diners can take a photo while dining at The Hainan Story (Hotel Boss) outlet with tag @thehainanstory and hashtag #hainanstoryhotelboss on Instagram, and stand a chance to win an exclusive The Hainan Sotry gift box. Each box contains Limited edition specially designed The Hainan Story Coffee Cup & Saucer set A jar of The Hainan Story Signature Gula Melaka Kaya Coffee bags prepared with The Hainan Story’s own house blend of coffee beans 5 lucky winners will be chosen every week from 19 April to 31 May. Time to get creative!

The Hainan Story (Hotel Boss)

500 Jalan Sultan, Hotel Boss, #01-09 Singapore 199020

Opens 24 hours daily Facebook and Instagram @thehainanstory Hashtag: #thehainanstory #hainanbao

Lo Hei in Charming Festive Domes @ Capitol Singapore

February 18, 2021maybeline

These air-conditioned bubble domes provide a safe and intimate space for friends and families alike, while serving as the perfect backdrop for photos. To get these domes, simply order any prosperity Yu Sheng set from either The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, Famouse Treasure or HolyCreab via springfair.capitolsingapore.com to enjoy Lohei @ The Domes in an intimate setup for two hours for free with your family and friends.

Also, with good experience good food must not be forsaken. Pick a wide selection of Lunar New Year dishes and goodies, from traditional Chinese set meals at 15 Stamford by Alvin Leung at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, Famous Treasure and HolyCrab to exquisite German-Chinese and Italian-Chinese fusion set menus from Frieda Restaurant and La Scala Ristorante respectively. We have sampled the Bak Kwa Frittata from La Scala Ristorante, Chicken Cheese Sausage Hot Dog Roll from Broadway American Diner, and Pork Belly from Frieda Restaurant. They are simply amazing and so easy to popped into mouth.

For dessert, this Mandarin Orange Choux (an orange Blossom Cream) from Berthold Delikatessen is creamy with a sweet tangy explosion, absolutely a delight.

Capitol Singapore, Outdoor Plaza

Date & Time: 22 Jan – 26 Feb 2021, 12pm – 10pm

Simply order a Yu Sheng set from either The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, Famous Treasure or HolyCrab and lohei @ The Domes in an intimate setup for 2 hours with family and friends

Reservation: springfair.capitolsingapore.com

Lohei @ The Capitol Singapore

Capitol Singapore, Outdoor Plaza

Date & Time: 22 Jan – 26 Feb 2021, 12pm – 10pm

Simply order a Yu Sheng set from either The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, Famous Treasure or HolyCrab and lohei @ The Domes in an intimate setup for 2 hours with family and friends

Reservation: springfair.capitolsingapore.com

Exquisite Traditional Indian Cuisine @ Tandoor, Holiday Inn Orchard City Centre

March 15, 2020maybeline

Author: Alexius Chua

If you are in the mood for something fancy and Northern Indian, head to Tandoor, a restaurant synonymous with authentic traditional Indian cuisine at Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre. The premise is beautifully decorated with a contemporary vibe, right at the very end a floor-to-ceiling see-through kitchen window so you can see the chef prepare your food.

We had the non-vegetarian set menu, which is all beautifully presented and taste as appealing as it looks, worthy of the Singapore’s most awarded Indian restaurant namesake. This only gives me wonder how the vegetarian set menu looks like, only if I have two stomachs!

The first dish is the Masala Crab Cake. Every bit of the spiced crab meat is a delight especially when you hit that duck foie grass and mango confit. This dish balanced the savoury and sweetness well with the pairing of pear, rhubarb chutney and warm toasted brioche.

Next up the soup dish. Makai Ka Shorba, which is sweet corn velouté served with masala potato gnocchi. As a sweet corn lover, I like that the inventive Chef Bobby Krishnan turned up the richness of the soup which at the same time cleanse the palate for the next course.

Our main course is the visually arresting Sea Perch Pakora. The deep-fried cumin flavoured Sea Perch fish, while looked deceptively dry, is so soft and full of flavour attributed much to its Ibeko caviar batter. Tagged along with prized ingredients such as Jerusalem artichokes, avocado and a dash of scallion dressing, this could very well be the most satisfying fish dish I had and a HPB approved one.

The fall-of-the-bone Australian Lamb Shank is so artfully tender and almost melt in the mouth. Coupled with a Cherry Vine Tomato resting on a bed of cassoulet on the other side of the braised sauce to balance the meatiness. Wish I had more of the lamb though but at this stage I am quite full already so I am not complaining.

For desserts, we had the Cardamom Ice Cream. The profiteroles is marshmallow soft and sweet with citrus centre, giving you a sweet ending of the entire satisfying course.
What Tandoor offers is a whole experience – a mesmerizing atmosphere with great food and impeccable service. You will probably not need more than that to have a good time.

Tandoor, Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre
Opening Hours
Lunch from 12 noon to 2.30pm
Dinner from 7pm to 10:30pm
Telephone: +65 6733 8333
Website: http://www.tandoor.com.sg/

YOTEL unveils unique dining experience with chic drinks, KOMYUNITI

February 2, 2019maybeline

Author: Alex Chua

Tucked on the 10th floor of YOTEL is KOMYUNITI, a venue where people connect over nice food and drinks. It is a bar, restaurant, alfresco terrace and a co-working space combined together. KOMYUNITI means ‘community’ and this is evident in the furnishings and layout that invites guests to network, socialise, co-work, eat and drink. Helmed by Head Chef Mark Tai and F&B Manager, As’ad Isnin, expect yummy modern Jap creations crafted via their very own culinary and mixologist experiences and interpretations.

Being just recently launched on 1st November, I love the feel of having mod-Jap cuisines in these sleek, stunning surrounds.

To start, we had the Salmon Poke – marinated cubes of salmon served with crispy fried onion crackers on the side. Very Hawaiian-vibe, very refreshing with a hint of spiciness (house-made Chili Sauce), the salmon has to be really fresh to be served as poke.

Next, we had the Curry Corn Soup and Mama’s Tomato Soup. I particularly love the cream of corn, with its curry spices for a surprising touch without being too overwhelming. Comes in plate of 3 cups, these small plates are perfect for those having a small intimate gathering.

It is so easy to pop this plate of Buttermilk Fried Chicken. I love the mouthfeels when bite into the cornmeal crusted skin, it is not oily at all yet so juicy and tender. Would be good if the sweet potato mash can be a heap too!

Obviously, the high-quality proteins take the lead here. The pinkish Slow Roasted Duck Breast packs that meaty, flavourful punch even though they are thinly sliced, while the Roasted Pork Belly possessed a full-bodied taste, it is thankfully not salty but savoury. The meat-fat ratio is evenly distributed and the crispy crackling skin is a clear winner.

If you don’t drink you haven’t been to KOMYUNITI. Just kidding, but the bar does mix pretty interesting cocktails that suits the style of refined, contemporary Jap. KOMpliment, KOMYUNITI’s signature cocktail, is fruity and fragrant, and made with butterfly pea flower-infused gin for that delicate touch of iridescent purple. We’ve also tried tropical cocktails like the vanilla-infused gin Tiki Chin Chin, sours like vodka-based Chaussettes, and bittersweet Benjamin Button. The one kicker for me is Fat Roger. Perhaps I overindulged so the fat-washed bourbon suits that occasion. To drink you will need to first roll the smoked ham with dried cranberries, eat it and then wash it down with whisky.

To sum up, KOMYUNITI hosts quite an extensive selection of delectable dishes and fancy cocktails with a welcoming, feel-good environment.

KOMYUNITI
Level 10, 366 Orchard Road, Singapore 238904
Breakfast 6:30am – 10:30am (11am on Sat, Sun, Public Holidays)
Lunch & Dinner: 12pm – 12am (1am on Fri, Sat, Eve of Public Holidays)

Celebrate Chinese New Year at ParkRoyal on Beach Road

February 1, 2019maybeline

Author: Alex Chua

Pig out this Chinese New Year at Ginger, Park Royal on Beach Road as Executive Chef Vincent Aw serves up extensive auspicious culinary delights. The all-day dining restaurant features an array of delicious dishes up for kiap-ping like Braised Pig Ear Terrine with Chinese Herbs at the Salad station, Baby Lobster with Abalone Sauce, Abalone Fried Rice, and Braised Dried Oyster with Sea Moss on the Hot Food isle. What is special is the D.I.Y Yu Sheng station. Perhaps the first in Singapore, you can create your own Prosperity Yu Sheng at the Yu Sheng counter to toss up a good fortune.

Here are a few dishes that I’ve kiap-ed (or grabbed) and enjoyed thoroughly, so if you’re here for the CNY buffet you can go straight to hog these yummies out.

As an unrepentant carnivore more often than not I will just fly towards the meat station, but the pot of Broccoli with Dried Oyster is just visually desirable. The green broccoli possessed that nice crunch, soaked in a rich oyster broth to give off that distinct umami taste; very flavorful and back of my mind patting myself for being a healthy picker for a change.

Priding themselves on serving consistently good quality crabs throughout the year, this Baby Lobster with Rich Abalone Broth is a dish I will indulge over again and again. Cooked a la minute at the live station, the lobster meat is fresh with a good springy bite, and pretty easy to peel off the fresh from the shell. Just remember to drink it hot as the taste will be slightly off when it’s cold.

Other Chinese favorites I raved includes the very tender, very juicy Braised Pig Trotters, Abalone Fried Rice (wok-hei power strong in this one), as well as the Pineapple Salad with Sliced Bak Kwa and Braised Pig Ear Terrine with Chinese Herbs at the Salad station.

Besides these yummy CNY specials, also available at the hot isle are the surefire hit Baked Salmon topped with deep-fried fish skin – a good source of protein and omega 3 which I have many helpings.
Chinese New Year is never complete without stuffing yourself aplenty with decadent treats and delicacies. Make Ginger the go-to restaurant for your CNY indulgence and book today!

Park Royal on Beach Road – Ginger Resataurant
7500 Beach Rd, Singapore 199591

Available from 21 January to 19 February 2019
Lunch: 12pm to 2.30pm, from $48 – $68 (for adults) | from $22 – $34 (for child)
Dinner: 6pm to 10pm, from $68 – $108 (for adults) | from $34 – $54 (for child)
Dining reservations at Ginger can be made at dining.prsin@parkroyalhotels.com or call at +65 6505 5710

Perk Up Your Palate this CNY @ Song Garden

January 27, 2019maybeline

Author: Alex Chua

Known for its dim sum and mouth-watering egg tarts, Song Garden has been a favourite for many families. Located on level 2 of Mercure Singapore Bugis Hotel where Bugis Street meets Bras Basah in one of Singapore’s more authentic areas, Song Garden offers a trove of auspicious modern Cantonese dishes to user in a prosperous Year of the Pig. Reunion feast anyone?

What can be more celebratory than a toss of Yu Sheng? The Prosperity Salmon and Fresh Fruit Yu Sheng has all the tried-and-tested essentials of Yu Sheng inside the giant bowl of auspicious red. The wooden chopsticks are much longer than usual to accommodate such a big bowl.

The simmering Lobster with Pumpkin Puree served in Hot Stone Pot with Bacon Scallion Pencil is popular with the diners. The delectable pumpkin puree is now enhanced with generous amount of lobster meat. It was so delicious that I slurped up every last drop. Careful don’t touch the rim because it is scalding hot.

Nothing shouts more CNY than Pen Cai. The Song Garden Supreme Fortune Pot is braised full of delectable delicacies like 8-head Abalone, Roast Duck, Crispy Pork Belly, Dried Oysters, Sea Cucumber, and the naturally sweet Scallop – which I fell in love with. One sip of the thick gravy will bring you to taste bud heaven.

Don’t leave without giving the Golden Pillow White Pepper Pork Ribs Bun a try. An absolute crowd-pleaser, this savoury peppery pork ribs suits perfectly with the white bun custodian of pillowy texture. Brought back childhood memories of my great-aunt’s version of this irresistible dish.

For those with a sweet tooth, a great end to the meal is the Double-boiled Peach Resin with Fungus and Red Dates. Cooling and refreshing, this traditional dessert screams Cantone-sia. You’ll find it hard to stop at just one sip.

Song Garden @ Mercure Singapore Bugis
122 Middle Road Singapore 188973

Weekdays
Lunch: 11.30am to 2.30pm
Dinner: 6pm to 10pm

Weekends/ Public Holiday
Lunch: 11am to 3pm
Dinner: 6pm to 10pm

YOTEL unveils unique dining experience with chic drinks, KOMYUNITI

December 26, 2018maybeline

Author: Alex Chua

Tucked on the 10th floor of YOTEL is KOMYUNITI, a venue where people connect over nice food and drinks. It is a bar, restaurant, alfresco terrace and a co-working space combined together. KOMYUNITI means ‘community’ and this is evident in the furnishings and layout that invites guests to network, socialise, co-work, eat and drink. Helmed by Head Chef Mark Tai and F&B Manager, As’ad Isnin, expect yummy modern Jap creations crafted via their very own culinary and mixologist experiences and interpretations.

Being just recently launched on 1st November, I love the feel of having mod-Jap cuisines in these sleek, stunning surrounds.

To start, we had the Salmon Poke – marinated cubes of salmon served with crispy fried onion crackers on the side. Very Hawaiian-vibe, very refreshing with a hint of spiciness (house-made Chili Sauce), the salmon has to be really fresh to be served as poke.

Next, we had the Curry Corn Soup and Mama’s Tomato Soup. I particularly love the cream of corn, with its curry spices for a surprising touch without being too overwhelming. Comes in plate of 3 cups, these small plates are perfect for those having a small intimate gathering.

It is so easy to pop this plate of Buttermilk Fried Chicken. I love the mouthfeels when bite into the cornmeal crusted skin, it is not oily at all yet so juicy and tender. Would be good if the sweet potato mash can be a heap too!

Obviously, the high-quality proteins take the lead here. The pinkish Slow Roasted Duck Breast packs that meaty, flavourful punch even though they are thinly sliced, while the Roasted Pork Belly possessed a full-bodied taste, it is thankfully not salty but savoury. The meat-fat ratio is evenly distributed and the crispy crackling skin is a clear winner.

If you don’t drink you haven’t been to KOMYUNITI. Just kidding, but the bar does mix pretty interesting cocktails that suits the style of refined, contemporary Jap. KOMpliment, KOMYUNITI’s signature cocktail, is fruity and fragrant, and made with butterfly pea flower-infused gin for that delicate touch of iridescent purple. We’ve also tried tropical cocktails like the vanilla-infused gin Tiki Chin Chin, sours like vodka-based Chaussettes, and bittersweet Benjamin Button. The one kicker for me is Fat Roger. Perhaps I overindulged so the fat-washed bourbon suits that occasion. To drink you will need to first roll the smoked ham with dried cranberries, eat it and then wash it down with whisky.
To sum up, KOMYUNITI hosts quite an extensive selection of delectable dishes and fancy cocktails with a welcoming, feel-good environment.

KOMYUNITI
Level 10, 366 Orchard Road, Singapore 238904
Breakfast 6:30am – 10:30am (11am on Sat, Sun, Public Holidays)
Lunch & Dinner: 12pm – 12am (1am on Fri, Sat, Eve of Public Holidays)

Seafood Bonanza with Sky22 @ Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena

September 16, 2018maybeline

Author: Alex Chua

Surf & Turf = seafood and red meat matchmake in heaven.

Seafood lovers are in for a mouth-watering treat this September. Sky22 in Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena has recently launched the September Seafood Bonanza – a seafood themed buffet available every Friday to Sunday from 1 to 30 September. At a ridiculously affordable price from $48++ per adult (lunch) to $56++ per adult (dinner), you can sample a medley of your favorite fresh and cooked seafood without bursting your budget.

Located on the 22nd floor of the famed hotel, Sky22 gives quite a nice view of its surrounding precinct. Best to make reservations prior to coming here as the seats (100 guests’ seats in the restaurant, 12 guests in the private dining room) can be filled up quite quickly.

The buffet spread features appetizers such as Poached Salmon with Fennel and Zucchini, smoked tuna, smoked marlin, salads and assorted sushi. There is also a seafood-on-ice counter with fresh prawns, mussels and scallops. I know, there are some who would prefer cooked seafood. You can sip into piping hot bowls of Clam Chowder or Seafood Chowder. I tried the Seafood Chowder, it was just exquisitely delicious, savory enough to open your palate for the main feast.

One key highlight of the seafood buffet spread is the cook-to-order a la carte buffet spread with over 17 all-you-can-eat main courses and side fares. With favorites like Green Lip Mussels Pomodoro and Crab Quiche, the list is quite extensive so we’ve selected a few dishes to sample (even though the gluttony me wanted to had it all!). We got ourselves the Surf & Turf, which is my personal favorite. Each mouthful of the braised short ribs was rewarded with a quintessential doneness and flavor. The lobster meat was fresh and divine.

I had a fair share of the Oyster platter, which comprises of three different preparations (Rokefeller, Kilpatrick & Mornay). Of all I love the Mornay for its natural oyster sweetness and mellow topping.

Besides the Western seafood delights, other noteworthy local seafood dishes like the Singapore Chili Crab with Mantou Bun, Black Pepper Prawns, Nyonya Grilled Seabass and the picture above, the LaLa (White Clams) Bee Hoon. The aroma of this dish was strong and alluring, with an umami broth that I can’t help but keep sipping on it. What about the bee hoon? Simply awesomely slurp-able.

If you are looking for a place for a romantic date or to hangout with your friends, Sky22 is definitely your choice. For me, I would bring a friend or two to enjoy the good affordable seafood with a view that more than pays the price.

Sky22 September Seafood Bonanza
Date: 1 – 30 Sep 2018
Time:
Lunch – 12 noon to 2.30pm (Saturday & Sunday)
Dinner – 6pm to 10pm (Friday & Saturday)
Price:
Lunch: $48++ per adult/ $24++ per child (age 6 to 12 years old)
Dinner: $56++ per adult/ $28++ per child (age 6 to 12 years old)
Add $28++ for free-flow of house pour red & white wines, prosecco, soft drinks

Sky 22 @ Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena
Location: 99 Irrawaddy Road, Level 22 of Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena
Operating hours: Lunch 12pm – 2.30pm/ Dinner 6pm – 10pm

Staycation at Swissôtel Merchant Court

March 25, 2018maybeline

James and I stayed at Swissôtel Merchant Court a few weeks ago and we felt like we were literally a stone throw away from all the activities we can do in Singapore. For example, we are close the most happening nightlife places there.

You can also reach Orchard Road or City Hall in less than 10 minutes with a taxi ride.

The check-in process was swift and I was also given Niu Niu upon check-in. You can see him later. I was given the Swiss Executive Room which entitles me to visit their Executive Lounge for some drinks in the evening or breakfast in the morning. One bonus point was that their staffs were really attentive.

I opened the door to a bright and cheery room created with fruits & chocolates. Yes, the cute cow you see there is called Niu Niu, which slept with me through the night.

I have always loved hotel beds and fluffy white blankets and those at Swissôtel Merchant Court were no exception.

The toilet was spacious and all the amenities I needed were present. I thought that they have very good shampoo & conditioner though. Some hotels provide the duo that leaves my hair dry and tangled but I had absolutely no issues with Swissôtel’s own Purovel brand. Purovel is also the name of their new spa – Purovel Spa, which is convienently located right at level one.

Right after exploring the room and finishing a movie in there, we walked over the the Swiss Executive Lounge which is located at the same level. You can enjoy snacks and beverages while reading the latest happenings on the news paper. Psst: Alcohol is included as well!

We were given the choice to have our breakfast at the lounge or at their Ellenborough Market Cafe which was revamped and opened a few years ago. James’ even celebrated his birthday there last year.

They have a very good variety of food from Chinese to Indian and to Western.

What makes the hotel stand out has got to be their pool. When you are there, it gives off a resort feeling and the pool event comes with 2 slides. Tell me, how often do you come across a hotel pool with slides?

Little did I know that there are various OOTD spots around the area too. Spot another one on my Instagram (@maybelinesim) sometime this week.

James is the healthy one so he went up to the Fitness Centre to gym 1 hour after breakfast. I don’t know how well equipped a gym should look like but he commented that the gym’s facilities are pretty decent. In fact, better than what he had expected.

My overall experience was fantastic! I love the walking distance to Central (for a bowl of hot ramen) and the happening night view at night.

Adress: 20 Merchant Rd, Singapore 058281
Nearest MRT Station: Clarke Quay

Usher In The Year Of Dog At SWISSÔTEL Merchant Court Singapore!

January 26, 2018maybeline

Author: Jimmy Tan

The Lunar New Year is upon us again and this year, Ellenborough Market Café, which is well known for their sumptuous buffet spread, has come up with Prosperity Set meals and buffet which is sure to tantalize your taste buds!

The very cute doggy Yu Sheng is specially created by the chefs for the year of the dog can make any one from the young to the old go awwww this year. And there are a lot of specially created Chinese New Year dishes to choose from so there is bound to be something for everyone.

Take a look at some of the other dishes you can expect below.

Starting off with the Double-boiled Fish Maw with Dried Scallop and Cordycep Flower, it whets your appetite for more with a palatable and pleasing taste.

Other dishes in the menu includes Imperial Herbal Chicken, Braised Abalone and Sea Cucumber with Australian Broccoli and to top it up will be the Double-boiled ‘Hasma’ with Red Dates, you can be sure you will be getting your money’s worth.

My personal favourite is the Wok-fried Asparagus with Pearl Scallop in XO Sauce, the scallops were very fresh – with a tint of spice, combined with the Asparagus, it leaves a tingling taste on your tastebuds which left me wanting more!

Prosperity Buffet at Ellenborough Market Café
5 February to 2 March 2018
Lunch: $68++ per adult, $34++ per child
Dinner: $80++ per adult, $40++ per child
The above prices include a platter of Yu Sheng per table. Roast Duck and Roast Pork Belly are
available for dinner only at the Roast Station.
Top up $28++ and enjoy an additional serving of sliced abalone with your Yu Sheng

Prosperity Set Meals – Dine-In at Ellenborough Market Café
5 February to 2 March 2018
Menu A: $788++ per table of 10 , Menu B: $988++ per table of 10
(Please refer to menus in the Appendix section)

Head down now to SwissHotel Merchant Court now and try out their sumptuous festive menu!