Lesser Known Places

Relocated from Bukit Timah (and unrelated to the sake brand of the same name; it’s the owner’s name apparently) and now the first (?) restaurant along this particular stretch at the newly opened Paya Lebar Quarters. Fuss-free, straightforward execution that hits the spot. Reuben the manager mentioned that the vast majority of their sake is directly imported from Japan. Looks like this gets added to the “where shall we go for a convenient location to snack and booze in the east” list.

Lots of cheese (well, up to 8 which is their standard platter) and whatever tipple (drinkkkk) they pour for you. I’ve found that’s my favorite way to enjoy a nice afternoon at Ai Ming’s lovey little place at Queenstown. And making friends there is easy!

We wanted a fish, and chef Eric suggested the Lemon Sole ($80), cooked simply with butter. My dining companions said this was excellent.

I still prefer their old relaxed location at Park West Condominium but alas, that’s water under the bridge with the en bloc...

I’m not a fan of mee soto, but i’m a fan of this - go figure! $9 for a warm delightful bowl on a late night. Tried their chicken satay for the first time as well ($15 for 10 sticks) and chef (who’s also the owner) brought them out warm on his binchotan before serving it. Hits the spot.

This little labour of love has been run by Johnny and Lisa for close to 7 years now, and it’s been consistently satisfying. The 3-course set lunch is good value at $34 (+$10 for the red wine braised angus beef cheeks). Their French Onion soup is $16 but it’s the sort of thing you want on a cold rainy day.

I haven’t found better, the tinge of cheese and the combination just works. John’s stubborn like heck (LOL), but his intensity and passion shows through in his food. I haven’t found better pesto in years. Please let me know if you do.

(Pesto and crackers at $7.50. His curry osso bucco is very legit, ask him for recommendations on everything else)