Platypus Kitchen @ Bugis, Singapore

Platypus Kitchen has been on my to-visit list since their opening in 2012, but for unknown reasons (perhaps due to being a broke uni student) I didn't visit them. While eateries selling western cuisine is aplenty, Platypus Kitchen distinguishes itself with its array of handmade pastas (apparently the largest selection in Singapore) and creative gourmet creations at reasonable prices. Besides Platypus Kitchen, the Platypus restaurant group owns several other eateries, which also focuses on modern cuisine with Mediterranean and Italian influences.

Buta God @ Bugis+, Singapore

Ramen Champion first opened its doors at Bugis+ in 2011, and has since garnered the attention of many ramen lovers as well as ramen chefs, who competing for the annual title of "Iron Chef". Amongst the six stalls which are currently helmed by professional chefs from different regions of Japan, is Buta God, or in English terms - God of Pork. Hence, it is not surprising that tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen is their speciality and comes in all types of variants, such as their Tonkotsu Truffle Ramen, Fuwa-Fuwa (Cloud) Ramen, and even, Tom Yum Cheese Ramen (I wonder how this would taste). Here's my virgin experience at Buta God. ITADAKIMASUUUUUUUUU.

Artistry @ Jalan Pinang, Singapore

Hello hungry people! Sorry for the lack of updates these few weeks as university and work are really time-consuming, and I had to set my priorities right. So, anyway Christmas is once again around the corner, and I will most probably do up a Christmasy post soon. Please look forward to it!

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Nestled along Jalan Pinang, a quiet lane tucked away in the midst of Kampong Glam, Artistry is a cafe, which specialises in art and food. As one could have expected, the decor was cozy, with a great creativity amidst the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Artistry serves as a platform for art-lovers, featuring live bands and an art gallery with paintings which are up for sale.

Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (松发肉骨茶) @ New Bridge Road, Singapore

Think of Bak Kuh Teh and Song Fa might just appear in most people's head. This is not surprising at all, considering that their history of selling Teochew-style Bak Kut Teh was deep rooted since 1969. From a humble assistant in a Teochew stall, Mr Yeo Eng Song established the original Song Fa Bak Kut Teh at Victoria Street, and has since passed the duty to his son, Mr Yeo Hart Pong.

Today, snaking long queues never cease to disappear during meal times, while patrons from all walks of life filled the rustic halls that depict the yesteryear of Singapore. Besides their famous pork rib dishes, they offer a variety of braised treats, fish soup and other side dishes, like peanuts and vegetables that would enhance the diner's experience.

Miam Miam @ Bugis Junction, Singapore

Nestled outside the second floor of BHG in Bugis Junction, Miam Miam is the newest addition of cafes locally. Bringing a combination of French artisanal cuisine and Japanese-inspired culinary arts, this casual restaurant promises the fresh flavours and the charms of the best of both worlds. Well, as a guy, shopping can be a tiring and sleepy chore, hence I always find comfort in desserts, and as a method to pick myself up via a sugar rush.

Alongside with a dose of their Matcha latte (S$6.80) - a soothing mixture of premium matcha and steamed milk, we had their highly acclaimed French Toast (S$9.80). Originally known as "pain perdu", their rendition of this French classic was fluffy, yet robust with a hint of sweetness. It comes with a scoop of home-made whipped cream (which I thought was vanilla ice cream initially) and maple syrup as well, and it is only sane to indulge a good piece of toast with those amazing pairings. As they say, good things are worth waiting, most of their desserts, including toasts and soufflés have a waiting time of 20 minutes (while they do their magic in the open-concept kitchen).

Maison Ikkoku @ Kandahar Street, Singapore

Nothing goes better than a cup of caffeine and your favourite dessert after a filling meal. Here at Maison Ikkoku, expect exquisite cuppas crafted by skilled baristas, who are well-versed in the latte arts. With selections of weekend brunch menus, salads and gourmet sandwiches, this place has become a fast-rising favourite among youngsters. The interior holds a strong rustic, cosy feeling, completed by odd-looking furniture (the table top sure looks like a door), comfortable ambient lights and a coffee bar, with a glass display of all the lovely selections of cakes.

Saveur @ Purvis Street, Singapore

Due to the over-priced French affair locally, indulgence for dishes, like foie gras and duck confit are indeed hard to come by, until the recent opening of Poulet and a personal discovery of Saveur. Nestled along Purvis Street in Bugis, Saveur is the brainchild of two young food enthusiasts, who has worked at top French restaurants, like Guy Savoy, Fifty Three and Tetsuya’s in Sydney. Their goal was never less than bringing good and affordable French cuisine to people from all walks of life. Being said that, be prepared to queue up if you are 5 minutes later than their opening hours.

Despite being a full-fledged French restaurant, most of their dishes are fusions between the former and a tint of the local Singaporean taste. Take for example, Saveur's rendition of Beef Bourguignon (S$13.90) was not the typical beef chunks, which one expected to be simmered in thick brown sauce and wine. Nevertheless, the beef slices were tender and juicy, with seasoning kept to the minimal. The dish is completed with scalloped potatoes and salad greens.

Food Tasting at Sumire Yakitori House @ Bugis Junction, Singapore

In the quest of searching for authentic kushiyaki, a Japanese classic inclusive of bite-sized delicacies skewered and grilled, I am deeply honoured to be invited to a private food tasting session at Sumire Yakitori House. With 15 outlets in Japan itself, Singapore was chosen to become the first venture outside the country, as it was seen as a growing hub for food (among other things). Their initial concept - a yakitori bar, was originally targeted at men, who enjoyed their wide range of beer and sake while having yakitori. However, the President of Sumire - Mr. Yuzawa Tadanori, thought that good food is best shared. Since then, the bar concept is molded into a restaurant, catering for people from all walks of life.

Their first local outlet is seemingly difficult to find, girlfriend and yours truly had to pace the mall and search the directory whilst trying to locate the restaurant for the first time. Well, it wasn't that difficult to navigate around after knowing it is nestled at the edge of Bugis Junction, just across Bugis+. Upon arriving (anonymously), we were greeted loudly by the chefs and service staff with smiles hanging on everyone's faces, and it was noted that greetings would be given whenever customers enter, leave or when food is being served. On a side note, these people are probably the happiest service staff I have ever came across. Another plus point is awarded to the open kitchen concept where trained professionals prepare your grills, and cosy interiors, which exudes a typical Japanese restaurant "feel" and even evokes a sense of nostalgia, if you have been to Japan.

Chin Chin Eating House @ Purvis Street, Singapore

For me, the basis of Hainanese cuisine lies none other than the famed chicken rice itself. While the debate for the best chicken rice in Singapore is a never-ending process, I was introduced to the ones at Chin Chin Eating House  recently, a classic restaurant that brings the nostalgia back from the 1980s. Located at the corner of Purvis Street, Chin Chin is no stranger to Hainanese food lovers, who swear by their authentic chicken rice and signature sweet-and-sour pork chops.

Poulet @ Bugis+, Singapore

The recent addition of Poulet to Bugis+ (formerly known as Illuma) was a welcoming one, with long queues expected during lunch and dinner hours. Under the Thai Express Group which houses several household brands such as Xin Wang, New York New York and Kiseki, Poulet is a contemporary French-themed bistro which offers casual dining at much affordable prices. 

Nestled at the mall's fourth floor, Poulet features a 60-seat open dining area inspired by modern alfresco setting in France, furnished with classic wooden tables and chairs. Diners can also catch the chefs in action through the open kitchen.

On their 2-page menu, expect to find a variety of appetisers, main courses such as Braise de Carnard and Oxtail de Bourguignon ($15.80), as well as classic French desserts. And of course, as the name itself suggests, Poulet Roti (roast chicken) is their star dish, which well, makes it a must try for starters.