Beautiful Places

Finally visited Kilo recently and I enjoyed the laid back vibe and the closeness to nature. Definitely a solid choice for a date and conversations. Unnoticeably we chose a full seafood menu made up of the Tuna Tartare, Octupus Salad, Seared Scallops and Cream Of Ebiko Pasta. I really like how the zesty nam jim went with the octopus and peanut brittle. I wished that the service could have been a little warmer, because when I left, I felt like someone leaving a party early. #burpple

It's important to escape once in a while. To get away from the madding crowd and just chill with a wonderful, leisurely meal. Tucked far away from seas of people and shopping malls is the perfect antidote to today's hectic lifestyle: The Marmalade Pantry at Fairways Drive.
I was introduced to this chic dining spot amidst lush greenery as it's the venue for one of July's Burpple Tastemakers' Eat Up events. An extensive tasting menu by Executive Chef Eddie Goh awaited us but naturally, we Burpplers simply couldn't resist taking photos of the place and the displays of pretty cupcakes the moment we arrived. Only then were we ready to sit down and commence dinner.
I felt thoroughly spoilt as there were a total of seven courses and a few were almost full-sized portions despite it being a tasting menu. The standouts for me were the smoked salmon, the oxtail soup, the pork belly and the sticky date pudding.
I found the smoked salmon very fresh and beautifully complemented by the slightly bitter sprouts on top and filling of sweet orange segments, avocado and kalamata olives.
The slow-cooked oxtail soup had loads of rich beefy flavour and a few pieces of tender beef. Totally enjoyed the piece of gruyere cheese toast that came with it too.
The third item that impressed me was the pork belly. When I asked Chef Eddie how he got the pork to be so moist and juicy within, yet crispy on the outside, he was kind enough to describe the process to our group. I shan't reveal his "secret" here but you can ask him when you pay a visit to the restaurant. He's a really friendly chap :)
The last course that made me very happy was the sticky date toffee pudding. Served warm, the fluffy and soft pudding had a slightly concave top which was ideal for cupping a nice puddle of the thick and decadent toffee sauce. A twist on the usual came in the form of the ice-cream. Instead of vanilla, there were berries in theirs. It reminded me of the cherry ripple ice-cream I use to stuff my face with when I was a kid.
What an awesome evening it was... Food truly brings people together. Thank you again Burpple for organising this.

Tucked away in Singapore's "countryside" at Bukit Timah Saddle Club, this place is a lovely setting for intimate dates and celebrations. Feast on hearty mains like the Braised Beef Cheeks and the Mushroom Risotto while taking in the idyllic surroundings. Opt for outdoor seating if the weather permits, as it is really gorgeous at night. End your meal with the Sticky Date Pudding - it won't disappoint!

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