Café 2000 Seafood and Barbecue Buffet Dinner (M Hotel)

Café 2000, a restaurant located at M Hotel (Near Tanjong Pagar MRT Station) serves International Buffet Dinner at daily from 6pm to 11pm. On Fridays, Saturdays and Eve of Public Holidays, the restaurant serves Seafood and Barbecue Buffet Dinner.

We visited Café 2000 on a Saturday evening and tried out its Seafood and Barbecue Buffet Dinner. 

When we arrived at 630pm, the restaurant was around 70% full.  The first few rows of the tables near the entrance were not occupied. Whereas those inside the restaurants were all occupied, most probably because everyone wanted to be strategically near the food since it was a buffet.

I was surprised to see so many people at the restaurant as I thought that we were early. The spread available included Cold Seafood, Barbecue, Bread, Soup, Salad, Zi Char (which was the month special), Satay, Sashimi, Sushi, Dessert and Live Cooking Stations. To sum it up, the spread was reasonable, enough to keep me busy eating for 3 hours. 

Cold Seafood

The Cold Seafood Section was impressive. There were Oysters, Prawns, Scallops, Crabs and even Crab Claws! In addition, each of them were fresh. I particularly like the Oysters (plump and juicy), Prawns (sweet and firm) and Crab Claws. It would have been perfect if they were more prompt in refilling the Oysters.

(Clockwise from the top left) BBQ Section: Lamb, Beef, Chicken Wings and Salmon

The Barbecue (BBQ) Section was a unique differentiation that makes Café 2000 stand out compared to most other buffets. There was a variety of raw meat; Lamb, Beef, Chicken Wings and Salmon. 

BBQ Seafood Section

In addition, there were also BBQ seafood section with Jumbo Prawns, Scallops, Crayfish, Fish, and Fish and Squid Otak. All you have to do is to select the raw food you want on a plate, then peg your table clip to the plate. The BBQ food would be cooked and served to your table. 

(Clockwise from the top left) BBQ Meat: Lamb, Beef Chicken Wing and Salmon

BBQ Seafood 

The BBQ food was delish. I was most impressed with the Jumbo Prawns. Look at the size of it. It was fresh and the shells were easily taken out. In addition, the meat was firm. The otahs were quite good too, slightly spicy, there were fish chunks in it.

Scallop Au Gratin

The beautifully cooked Scallop Au Gratin did not disappoint. The warm melted cheese complemented the scallop well. 

Pork Ribs and Bratwurst

Pork Ribs and Bratwurst

The Bratwurst was a tad too salty for our liking. However, the partner loved the Pork Ribs which were folk tender and flavourful. 

Angus Beef

The Chef’s signature Angus Beef. 

The Angus Beef was well executed by the Chef. The natural flavour and juices in the beef was retained. I have seldom been impressed with pizza during a buffet. But Café 2000's thin crust pizza certainly made an impression on me. So much so that I had to tell the partner to try it.

Laksa

There was a live cooking station for the Laksa. All you have to do is to select the noodles and items you want for your Laksa on a plate, then peg your table clip to the plate. The Laksa would be delivered to your table.  There was an extensive variety of items including seafood (squid, prawns, mussel), yong tau foo and quail eggs.

The laksa gravy was fragrant and rich with the right amount of spiciness. It was so delectable that I finished the whole bowl by myself and quite full by the time I finish this.

Royal Chocolate Cake

Desserts

There was a wide variety of Desserts available ranging from Assorted Nonya Kueh, Cakes, Durian Puree, Chocolate Fondue to Shaved Ice. The Durian Puree stood out. Made from fresh durian, it was thick (not diluted) and bittersweet. Durian lovers will definitely love this.

It was a pity, I was just too full and did not manage to try every single items. I did not even manage try the chilli crab!

Although this was a tasting session, I was impressed with the quality of food. The spread was less than Todai Singapore, but Café 2000's quality was way well better (which makes it more value for money). Most people would 'spam' on the Cold Seafood section to make their money worth while. At, Café 2000 beside doing that you can also 'spam' on the BBQ section (Something I would do if I go back again =P). In addition, I would also go for more servings of the Laksa and Anges Beef.

Would I be back? Yes, I can forsee myself going back! I already know what I want to go for when I am back. 

Thank you Lindy for the invite and hosting us.

International Buffet Dinner
Sunday to Thursday from 6pm to 1030pm
 $50++ Adult, $28++ Child

Seafood and BBQ Buffet Dinner 
Friday, Saturday and eve of Public Holidays from 6pm to 1030pm 
$62++ Adult, $32++ Child

Café 2000 (M Hotel)

81 Anson Road, M Hotel

Singapore 079908

Tel: 6500 6112

Opening Hours: Daily from 630am to 11pm

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Skyve Wine Bistro (Newton)

Skyve Wine Bistro previous known as Skyve Elementary Bistro serves modern European cuisine, using sous vide in most of its cooking. Whether it is cooking of meat (poulet, lamb, beef, pork or duck) or vegetables, sous vide is used. Sous vide is a cooking technique in which food is cooked in airtight plastic bag in a water bath. The water path is kept at a constant temperature, normally lower than what is required for cooking. Normally, the food needs to be cooked in the water bath for a longer period of time, sometimes as long as 72 hours. This cooking technique ensures that the food are cooked evenly, the nutrients are not lost and resulting in a juicer end product, retaining the natural flavours. 

Skyve Wine Bistro located at Winstedt Road in the old Monks Hill Secondary School compound is 10 minutes walk from Newton MRT station.

The restaurant has an extensive list of more than 70 labels of wine in its wine cellar

Chivas, anyone?

Lounge section

The restaurant has both alfresco and indoor dining. For indoors dining, the restaurant is split into lounge section and a main dining section. The lounge section had retro style chairs, sofa and tables. An ideal place for chilling out in a causal and cozy setting. There will be a live band performing at this section every Wednesday and Friday night. As for the main dining area, that is where the proper chairs and tables are, for more formal occasions.

The Sleeping Oysters: Mentaiyaki, Chilean, Kilpatrick ($34 for half a dozen)

The meal started off with The Sleeping Oysters: Mentaiyaki, Chilean, Kilpatrick ($34 for half a dozen) and several appetisers. The Mentaiyaki Oyster with metaiko, ebiko, lemon juice and aioli. The Chilean Oyster with serrano, lime juice, red wine vinegar and cilantro (also known as coriander). The Kilpatrick Oyster with bacon, worchestershire and chives.

What I like about the oysters was that they were fresh, soft, plump and juicy. My favorite was the Japanese inspired Mentaiyaki Oyster. The British inspired Kilpatrick Oyster on the other hand was not my cup of tea. The hardness of the bacon did complement the soft oyster. In addition, the intense flavour of the ingredients used overwhelmed the other flavours.

Petuna and Ume Somen $20

The Petuna and Ume Somen $20, seared petuna with ebiko, mango, chilli, sesame yuzu dressing, cold somen and mesclun was very well executed. This appetiser could be easily mistaken as a main course. The petuna stole the show in this dish. I nearly when 'wow' as I ate this. Underneath the crisp top, the pentuna was incredibly succulent with its natural flavour fully retained in the flesh. It was very fresh with no fishy taste. The ebiko gave a nice crunch to the Ume Somen.

Skyve Beef Tartare $22

The Skyve Beef Tartare $22 was an interesting dish. The beef tartare (minced raw beef) was seared on the outside leaving the interior entirely raw. It was then served with truffle egg yolk and cilantro dust on top with flat bread, ancho chilli aioli and thyme sea salt at the side. Customers who ordered this dish would need to thoroughly mix the beef tartare with the truffle egg yolk and cilantro dust. It was like making mashed potato (if unsure, you can ask the staff to do this for you). After that, scoop some of it onto the flat bread and add the other sides in according to your preference. For those who do not like raw beef, you may still like this as it had a mixture of flavours; distinct truffle aroma along with a little spiciness and saltiness in one mouthful.

Truffle and Thyme Fries $12

Truffle and Thyme Fries $12 served with Truffle Oil, Thyme Salt and lots of shaved Granda Padano was quite good. The thick cut fries ensure that one could be able to get a good bite. In addition, each piece was infused with the aroma of truffle oil. I have a weakness for potatoes and could not stop myself reaching out for more!

Spicy Kalbi Beef Short Ribs $36

Among the main courses, Spicy Kalbi Beef Short Ribs $36 was the best seller in Skyve Wine Bistro.

Spicy Kalbi Beef Short Ribs $36

The beef short ribs was sous vide before being glazed with sweet, spicy kalbi. It was then served with sauteed brocollini (similar to broccoli), and crispy sweet potato and yam ribbons. The beef short ribs was not my personal favourite as the flavours were on the stronger end, overwhelming the meaty/natural flavour. My favourite part of this main course was the crispy sweet potato and yam ribbons which were incredibly addictive. You will not be able to stop at one.

Lamb Rack $40

As for the Lamb Rack $40, the lamb rack was grilled and served with radish, pumpkin and chargrilled tomato momotaro. This was my favourite as the lamb rack was well executed and its not often you can find one that is so well executed. The ratio of lean meat to fats were just right. In addition, the meat was soft and tender, and a little sweet and savoury.

Sous Vide Poulet $34

Sous Vide Poulet $34

The Sous Vide Poulet $34 glazed with apricot based sauce, and served with baby vegetables, candied pecans and pommes (potato) puree was also very well executed. The sous vide style resulted in smooth, folk tender and succulent flesh. Comfort food and a safe choice for most people.

Polenta Mushroom Stack $34

Polenta Mushroom Stack $34

The Polenta Mushroom Stack $34 is specially created for vegetarians. It consisted of grilled portobello with polenta cakes served with mushroom fricassee, seasonal vegetables and pesto. This was impressive both in terms of appearance and taste. It would be great if the polenta cake was less powdery and crumbly. One of the better vegetarian dish I have tried.

Inspired by Red $12

Inspired by Red $12 would be a favourite among ladies or those with sweet tooth. Beautifully created, it consisted of raspberry sorbet with strawberry parfait, sous vide strawberry in balsamic vinegar, flower tuile and dehydrated raspberry. With such a presentation, this would be a dessert to order if you would want to impress your other half on a special (romantic) occasion.

Snicker Bar $12

The Snicker Bar $12 consisted of salted caramel pudding, peanut butter, chocolate ganache and feuilletine layered cake with flambed bananas and vanilla gelato. It looked better than it tasted. This would be a dessert that you either love or hate. The flavours were just too heavy and intense for my liking. It would be better to share this among 2 to 3 persons.

Mango & Cheese Semifreddo $12

The Mango & Cheese Semifreddo $12 was my favourite dessert! Rippled frozen mousse with frozen lime foam on top and crunchy sablee cookie at the bottom. This dessert left a deep impression. It was light and well balanced in terms of taste. As for the texture, I really like how you can get to enjoy the different textures in 1 mouthful. The top was pillow soft and fluffy, the middle layer was slightly soft and semi solid while the bottom was crunchy and solid. A perfect way to end the meal!

Overall, I was most impressed with the meal. I could sense the thought and effort that has gone into each dish. The presentation of each dish was perfect. Each dish was so enticing as they looked bright, vibrant and colourful. Although the price was on the higher end, I can't fault that as the quality of the ingredients were top notch. In addition, most of the food retained their natural flavours and were very well executed. Personally, I think that Skyve Wine Bistro will be an ideal place for celebrating special occasions with your other half. Great ambiene and great food (in terms of both quality and taste).

I heard that the Asian Inspired Confit of Duck is a best seller. It will be on my to try list when I next visit.

Thank you Michelle and Celine for the invite and hosting FoodieFC.

ps: I just create Instagram less than 1 week ago. You can now follow FoodieFC on Instagram. Better late then never!

Skyve Wine Bistro (Newton)

Block E, #01-17

10 Winstedt Road

Singapore 227977

Tel: 6225 6690

Open Hours: Daily Mon to Sun 10am - 1am

                    (last order for food 10.30 pm)

Website

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Liang Court Wednesdays' Food Tasting Trails: Tamoya, Shakey's Pizza and Dulcet & Studio

Continue on with my previous post on Liang Court Wednesdays' Food Tasting Trails, I made 2 trips down to Liang Court on the last day of the food trail for both lunch and dinner. 

Tamoya Udon

For lunch, I visited Tamoya Udon which is a Japanese restaurant that specialises in handmade Udon.

Tamoya Udon

With the Liang Court's Wednesdays' Food Trail Coupon, I was able to try the large Curry Udon (U.P $10.80) with Prawn Tempura (U.P $2.50), Fried Chicken (U.P $1.50) and Chikuwa Tempura (U.P $1). 

Curry Udon

The Curry Udon was delicious. The Udon handmade using three types of flour was the highlight. It was chewy yet soft and smooth. The curry with lots of onions added to it complemented the udon well. 

Prawn Tempura, Chikuwa Tempura and Fried Chicken

The Fried Chicken was decent, while the Prawn and Chikuwa Tempura were disappointing. Both the tempura were cold, hard and no longer crisp. They were also coated with too much batter.

For dinner, the Partner and I went for Shakey's Pizza.

The Liang Court's Wednesdays' Food Trail Coupon provided us with several choices:
(a) Slim Trim Caesar Salad (U.P $5) and Spaghetti Carbonara (U.P $13.80)
(b) Shakey's Baby Back Ribs (Full Slab) (U.P $19.80)
(c) Oishi Wasabi Premium Pizza (90-inch) (U.P $19.80) or;
     Hula Hawaiian Classic Pizza (9-inch)(U.P $18.80)

We went for option (a) and (c). 

Slim Trim Caesar Salad and Spaghetti Carbonara

We ordered the Slim Trim Caesar Salad and Spaghetti Carbonara.

Slim Trim Caesar Salad 

The Slim Trim Caesar Salad consisted of lettuce, egg, parmesan cheese, bacon bits and garlic bread was quite good. Considering the fact that we seldom take salad, we finish this entire dish!

Spaghetti Carbonara

The Spaghetti Carbonara served with bacon and mushrooms with creamy egg sauce may not be the best, but it as certainly quite decently executed.

Oishi Wasabi Premium Pizza 

As we wanted to try something different we decided to order Oishi Wasabi Premium Pizza which consisted of shrimps, scallops, pineapples and wasabi sauce topped with lots of bonito flakes. Surprisingly, the wasabi sauce did not overwhelm the taste and complemented this dish well. We both felt that the shrimps and scallops did not match up to this pizza. Both ingredients were not exactly fresh. What a waste.

Dulcet & Studio

After dinner we walked round the shopping centre and also visited Mediya, the Japanese supermarket while waiting for our food to digest. Before, we headed back home, we stopped over at Dulcet & Studio for its cakes.

The food trail coupon enabled us to order two pieces of cakes and also a cup of regular coffee. As we visited at close to 9pm, most of the more popular cakes had already been sold out. We were just left with three choices. =(

We chose the Rose Chiffon Cake (U.P. $7) and Macha Marble Chiffon Cake (U.P. $4)  with a cup of regular coffee.

Macha Marble Chiffon Cake

The Macha Marble Chiffon Cake was just average. It was soft and fluffy but too dry.  The macha flavour could have been stronger.

Rose Chiffon Cake

The Rose Chiffon Cake fared better. It was soft, fluffy and had a stronger rose fragrant.

The coffee was a huge disappointment. We took just two sips and left it untouched.

That's all for the Liang Court Wednesdays' Food Tasting Trails. I wonder if they will hold this again next year. It's so value for money!

Liang Court Wednesdays' Food Tasting Trails: Tamoya, Shakey's Pizza and Dulcet & Studio
Liang Court, 177 River Valley Road
Singapore 179030
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