[CONFECTIONERY] Golden Moments Signature Galaxy Mao Shan Wang Durian Cake

Hello everyone!

Somehow, being cooped up in the house for a prolonged period has led me to develop major cravings for foods that are not easily accessible in Singapore or at this time of the year, such as raw freshwater fish (long banned; it was great while it lasted 😢) and durian, and I really had it worse with the latter. Since the durian season has yet to reach its peak, it is almost impossible to find my preferred variants (i.e. sweet flesh only) and reasonably priced ones in the market. Therefore, I had to resort to less-than-legitimate alternatives, such as durian puffs and cakes.

My first durian food purchase during Circuit Breaker [click here for shop]

My first durian food purchase during Circuit Breaker [click here for shop]

Bought this for my mother's birthday! [click here for shop]

Bought this for my mother’s birthday! [click here for shop]

With bakeries cashing in on the nation’s growing obsession with the king of fruits, there is certainly no lack of durian cakes in the confectionery scene. But the supply took a hit when stricter Circuit Breaker measures forbade brick-and-mortar confectioneries from operating. As a result, I had to turn to online retailers like Golden Moments, a homeground startup known for their handcrafted premium durian delicacies (you might have heard of their bamboo charcoal snowskin durian mooncakes), and it just so happened that they were also having a one-for-one promotion on their Signature Galaxy Mao Shan Wang Durian Cakes on top of a discount to commemorate their four-year anniversary of inception! Mind you, their prices are usually on the steep side (U.P. S$158.80 per cake, like hooooooly) so when the rare opportunity arises to get two for the price of one, you betcha I ain’t gonna let it slip away. The only issue was finding another person to share the cost with me (which I did eventually) because consuming two cakes would be stretching it (and my tummy 😂).

The promotion on Golden Moments website! (Sorry guys, offer ended!)

The promotion on Golden Moments website! (Sorry guys, offer ended!)

The cakes arrived four days after placing my order (to be fair, Golden Moments did forewarn about delays due to a surge in demand on their website) packed in white plastic bag, two hours shy of the start of the delivery slot I had opted for (i.e. 2pm – 6pm). Kudos for being early – too early, in fact – but I can’t say I wasn’t disappointed that it came without being in an insulated bag to maintain its temperature. Imagine frantically getting out of bed (because Sundays are for sleeping in) to receive my order, only to panic the next moment as there wasn’t sufficient space in the freezer for two cakes (this procrastinator had planned to make room when she woke up, but her bad; she should have done that the night before 🤷🏻‍♀️). Besides, what if no one was at home to answer the door in Golden Moments’ attempt to be (overly) efficient?

Dear (courier?) companies, if your customer has chosen a delivery slot, please stick to it 😒 Otherwise, give the customer a call before making that trip if you’re very early to ensure that he/she is available to receive the order! /rantover

According to the website, each cake weighs 1 kg and measures 8″ (or 18 cm), and comprises layers of cheese mousse, 100% premium Mao Shan Wang durian, coconut sponge and coconut crunch – a complex and bizarre favour combination, if you ask me, but I was genuinely curious how putting together two pungent ingredients – durian and coconut – would work out to be.

Packaging

Packaging

A gradual pull of the cake board out of the box revealed the ritzy cake blanketed in black mirror glaze coating, which marble effect is said to be different on every cake. Although marketed as having a galaxy design, there was a lack of blue and purple hues to justify its name – it was just.. black gelatin sheet with faint white marbling patterns (I would actually relate better if the design was described as smokey instead), decorated with gold sprinkles and a dash of gold leaf to add exquisiteness to the whole appearance.

(Pardon the frosty surface as this picture was taken immediately after it was taken out of the freezer) Golden Moment Galaxy Mao Shan Wang Durian Cake

(Pardon the frosty surface as this picture was taken immediately after it was taken out of the freezer) Golden Moment Galaxy Mao Shan Wang Durian Cake

The depth of the cake (picture taken without flash)

The depth of the cake (picture taken without flash)

Once removed from the freezer, it is best to leave the cake to defrost for a while or it’d be a pain to move the blade of the knife into it (rookie mistake 😟 see images below). After managing to dissect the cake, I took a peek at the cross-section and was slightly underwhelmed by how it looked. It was clearly a far cry from how it is depicted on the website (although as an advertising grad, I should have known better and adjusted my expectations). But I could definitely see the layers of the promised ingredients – cheese mousse, durian and coconut crumbs.

Took me many slicing attempts to lift this slab up

Took me many slicing attempts to lift this slab up

A closer view of the cross-section (picture taken with flash to make cake appear less frosty)

A closer view of the cross-section (picture taken with flash to make cake appear less frosty)

Despite the rather unimpressive presentation, I’ve got to admit – the aroma of durian was strong in this one. It wasn’t the smell of durian puree; but of a true MSW durian (but the smell got less distinct with each passing day). Just one bite into the cake and I was instantly hooked. It had an unrivalled texture of a cake. There was the lightness and fluffiness from the mousse, softness and waxiness from the durian flesh and gelatin sheet, and crunchiness of the coconut flakes and crumbs. My taste buds were confused, but in a happy way. The distinct flavour of each ingredient stood out with each bite, and all of them indeed fused seamlessly together. To say this cake was delicious would be an understatement; I would gladly swim in this this phenomenal cake and have it for all meals 😛

The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to one week, but it is best consumed within three days (though mine couldn’t last that long). Also, if you’re thinking of cutting the cake in slices before serving, just note that the gelatin sheet would fuse together upon refrigeration (or that was what happened to my friend at least).

Without a doubt, the taste managed to more than compensate for its shortfall in appearance. The cake was so good, every bite lulled me into a sense of euphoria – a feeling that no other cake had come close to giving me (I’m not even a cake person to begin with!). So this begs the question: would I repurchase? CERTAINLY, but only at the promotional price. S$158.80 for an 8″ cake is really pushin’ it, bruh 😭

What are your thoughts about Golden Moments and their products? If you’ve tried the cake above, does my review resonate with your experience? Let me know your views in the comments below!

Thanks for reading!

Golden Moments · GOLDENMOMENTS.SG · For more information, please visit Golden Moments FACEBOOK PAGE, INSTAGRAM or WEBSITE.

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[SUSHI RESTAURANT] New Seasonal Menu @ Sushiro, Isetan Scotts

Move aside, Genki Sushi and Itacho Sushi for there is a new kid on the block!

After what seemed like an eternity, Japan’s largest conveyor belt sushi chain Sushiro has finally reached our shores, bestowing us with not one, not two but three outlets across the island in just a span of 6 months (with the newest one at Causeway Point) to satisfy our insatiable appetite for sushi!

Sushiro at Isetan Scotts

Sushiro at Isetan Scotts

What’s the difference, the uninitiated may ask, between Sushiro and the many existing kaiten sushi chains here that warrants your attention? For a start, Sushiro has an extensive menu. Having tried Sushiro at their Taipei branch last year, I knew very well that the newcomer to Singapore’s food scene wasn’t going to disappoint in terms of their offerings. Apart from the usual sushi staples, you can expect other ingenious sushi creations as well, such as sea urchin and roasted beef (yes, this is actually one dish – best of both worlds for people like me!), monkfish liver gunkan, baby scallop and dongpo pork, not forgetting outlet-exclusive ingredients (which I will be elaborating on shortly)! Their appetiser and dessert menu is nothing short of inventive and decadent as well, with items like cold chawanmushi, mango shaved ice and heavenly catalana that will ignite the fireworks of enjoyment in you.

Free-flow of iced water near the entrance

Free-flow of iced water near the entrance

This is where you get your free-flow of soft drinks (except for juices and alcoholic beverages) if you have ordered them at S$3.50 per pax!

This is where you get your free-flow of soft drinks (except for juices and alcoholic beverages) if you have ordered them at S$3.50 per pax!

As my companion and I already had our orders in mind (we had long craved for a number of Sushiro dishes so their inception in Singapore was extremely timely!), we jumped straight into adding them to our virtual cart on the tablet. Within minutes, our personal conveyor belt (which is a division from the main lane) would be jam-packed with our orders and we had to scramble to bring them down onto our table (we had clearly underestimated the preparation time and trust me, it got crazier towards the end when we couldn’t find space on the table for approaching orders). Talk about efficiency 😅 Lesson learnt; clear your plates before you place new orders!

The iPad also alerted us when our orders arrived

The iPad also alerted us when our orders arrived

Sushi traffic jam on our dedicated lane!

Sushi traffic jam on our dedicated lane!

Now, here’s a fun fact: did you know that every sushi plate has an IC (short for integrated circuit) tag integrated into it to ensure that any sushi that has travelled 350 metres around the conveyor belt would be replaced with fresh ones? As someone who tends to avoid picking up sushi on the conveyor belt (as you wouldn’t know what other patrons had done to them before they reached you..), this certainly gives me a peace of mind.

Without further ado, let’s get right down to the truckload of food we had at Sushiro (so that you won’t need to) and some of our honest opinions on a selected few. Be warned, though, that the abundance of food pictures coming your way may trigger your hunger pangs so if you’re reading this at night, S-T-A-Y A-W-A-Y(and come back later 🤣).

(Note: prices stated are exclusive of prevailing GST and Service Charge)

Appetisers

Chawanmushi with Scallop (S$3.50)

Chawanmushi with Scallop (S$3.50)

Cold Chawanmushi (S$3.50)

Cold Chawanmushi (S$3.50)

Cold Chawanmushi (S$3.50)

Cold Chawanmushi (S$3.50)

The cold chawanmushi was intriguing as it was something different from the norm. It had chunks of dashi stock that had been gelatinised to look like little pieces of precious gemstones that shimmered as the light bounced off the individual bits and pieces. Taste-wise, it was very similar to the hot version (I suppose the cold one would make a more refreshing alternative during sweltering days!) but I wouldn’t recommend this if you have sensitive teeth like me 😫

Mini Ramen, Sushi and Sashimi

Uni Ramen (S$8.50)

Uni Ramen (S$8.50)

The moment I saw this on the menu, I knew I had to get it because I absolutely love uni! I was rather impressed by the amount of uni (which is an expensive delicacy, if you didn’t know) served with such a small portion of noodles. The al dente te noodles were unfortunately clumped together which made it hard to eat. Furthermore, it would be a tad dry if not for the uni sauce. However, the dollop of uni compensated for all the shortfall.

And in case I wasn’t clear enough, the portion of the Uni Ramen is too small to be eaten as a main dish, but is definitely sufficient in satisfying your exquisite taste for uni! I totally wouldn’t mind returning just for this.

[SEASONAL ITEM] Blackthroat Seaperch Sushi (S$3.20)

[SEASONAL ITEM] Blackthroat Seaperch Sushi (S$3.20)

[NEW] Surf Clam (S$2.20)

[NEW] Surf Clam (S$2.20)

Steamed Abalone (S$3.20)

Steamed Abalone (S$3.20)

[LIMITED TIME ONLY] Giant Scallop (S$4.80)

[LIMITED TIME ONLY] Giant Scallop (S$4.80)

Salmon with Basil Cheese (S$2.20)

Salmon with Basil Cheese (S$2.20)

One of the crowd favourites, the salmon with basil cheese sushi is an east-meets-west fusion dish done right. The basil cheese added a different dimension and flavour profile to the sushi. The cheese might be a little too overwhelming to the extent that it kind of masked the taste of the fish, but it is still a unique dish that is worth trying nonetheless.

Whelk (S$2.20)

Whelk (S$2.20)

[OUTLET EXCLUSIVE] Otoro (S$2.20)

[OUTLET EXCLUSIVE] Otoro (S$2.20)

Available for a limited time only, the otoro sushi was value for money with mouthwatering marbling of fats to give a meatier chew.

Premium Grill Conger Eel (S$3.20)

Premium Grill Conger Eel (S$3.20)

Roasted Beef ($4.80)

Roasted Beef ($4.80)

As for the roasted beef sushi (which makes an unusual choice of sushi ingredient), the sauce complemented the cut of beef rather well. The cut of beef was cooked evenly although it might be a little too well done and was chewy at certain parts. Even so, it was not difficult to chew and swallow. The texture was also pretty soft for a cut of beef that was cooked well. If you like sea urchin (uni), be sure to opt for sea urchin and roasted beef sushi instead!

Salmon Sashimi (S$4.80)

Salmon Sashimi (S$4.80)

Desserts and Beverages

Warabimochi (S$3.80)

Warabimochi (S$3.80)

This paled in comparison to the real deal I had in Osaka last year as it did not give me that melt-in-your-mouth goodness I was anticipating. The texture felt more like that of a jelly – slightly rigid and rubbery. I say give this a miss unless you need some bitterness (from the matcha powder) to balance out the sweetness of other desserts that you are having.

Hattendo Shizuoka Matcha Pudding with Whipped Cream (S$4.30)

Hattendo Shizuoka Matcha Pudding with Whipped Cream (S$4.30)

Hattendo Coconut Pudding with Okinawa Brown Sugar (S$4.30)

Hattendo Coconut Pudding with Okinawa Brown Sugar (S$4.30)

Hattendo might have bade farewell to its patrons at Tanjong Pagar Centre following its store closure but its legacy remains. Sushiro has collaborated with Hattendo to continue to offer you its famous custard and chocolate cream buns, and matcha and coconut puddings! The coconut pudding had a satisfying crunch to it and the taste was rather close to chendol. However, we were slightly dismayed by the flat taste of the matcha one.

Mango Shaved Ice (S$6.50)

Mango Shaved Ice (S$6.50)

The mango shaved ice dessert lost out in terms of the richness of its mango flavour and sweetness although it can be argued as a healthier choice for people who are more conscious about their sugar intake. Texture-wise, the ice was shaved super thinly and was actually a joy to eat. This, combined with its not-so-sweet profile, meant that the dessert would be a hit among both young and old. The serving portion is huge too and can be shared between two or more people.

Crab Cream Croquette (S$3.50 for 2 pieces)

Crab Cream Croquette (S$3.50 for 2 pieces)

Chicken Karaage (S$4.80)

Chicken Karaage (S$4.80)

The chicken karaage, I would say, was a glorified version of har cheong gai – but I’m not complaining! Served piping hot, the batter was light and crispy and did not retain as much oil. It was so fragrant that I could actually smell it while on its way to me, and I just couldn’t resist having seconds! (And by seconds, I meant, like, repeated order 😛)

Catalana (S$3.50)

Catalana (S$3.50)

Catalana (S$3.50)

Catalana (S$3.50)

The catalana dessert was what I missed most about Sushiro during my stay in Taiwan. I even resorted to searching for the recipe online – that’s how much I loved it! Hence, when I got wind of Sushiro’s venture into Singapore, all that went through my mind was catalana… catalana… catalana… 🤤

Catalana (or Crema Catalana as the Spanish calls it) is very similar to the French crème brûlée, but is made from milk and then thickened with cornstarch and eggs. It consists of a rich custard base topped with a texturally contrasting layer of hardened caramelised sugar. I do not consider myself as one with a sweet tooth, but the catalana somehow managed to hit all the sweet spots!

Yuzu Juice (S$2.50)

Yuzu Juice (S$2.50)

Ah, yes, we were pretty amazed by the capacity of our stomachs as well. But it probably took me five trips to the gym to finally get rid of all the calories I gained that night. Still, stuffing my face with such great food from Sushiro was so worth it.

Despite the paranoia surrounding the virus outbreak, their Isetan Scott outlet was abuzz with diners lining up to secure a seat when I was there a few weeks ago and I am pretty sure the crowd hasn’t subsided yet (because there are only three outlets? And not a single one in the North-East region? How can?!). Hence, I thought it was very thoughtful of Sushiro to roll out a mobile application [Download: iOS / Android] for customers to make reservations for tables. The app also allows you to monitor your waiting time so that you won’t have to hang around the restaurant mindlessly when you could be doing something more meaningful (like shopping at Isetan Department Store? 😉) Oh, and don’t worry about table hoggers because there is a 60-minute dine-in period. This means you’ll definitely get a table within this time frame.

What do you think? Have you tried Sushiro before? What do you think about their food? Let me know your views in the comments below!

Thanks for reading!

Sushiro (Isetan Scotts) · 350 Orchard Rd #04-00 Shaw House Singapore 238868 · Operating hours: 11.00 am – 9.00 pm (Sun – Thu) & 11.00 am – 9.30 pm (Fri & Sat) (Please refer to THIS FACEBOOK POST for temporary closing times) · Nearest MRT station: Orchard (NS22) · For more information, please visit Sushiro FACEBOOK PAGE, INSTAGRAM or WEBSITE.
this was a media invitation. ALL OPINIONS EXPRESSED ARE MY OWN.

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[CHINESE RESTAURANT] Revamped Menu @ No Signboard Seafood at Esplanade

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Now that winter break is in full swing, you may be expecting to play host to some of your friends from temperate countries. With iconic landmarks like the Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion statue already on the itinerary, the next step is probably to look for a nearby place to dine and cool off while at the same time, show off some of our famous delicacies. If this describes your situation now, look no further.

Some orange juice for you?

Some orange juice for you?

After undergoing more than two months of refurbishment, No Signboard Seafood (NSB) at Esplanade has finally reopened its doors to the public, but not without a revamped menu to tempt your palate!

Exclusively available at the Esplanade outlet (for now) to enhance and refresh diners’ experience, the new menu takes inspiration from crafting Chinese with Western and Japanese cuisines. The latest culinary creations not only include a selection of unique and popular dishes from its overseas outlet in Shanghai, but also feature a stylish plating upon serving (likewise for existing dishes).

Be prepared to salivate at the sight of Shanghai favourites such as Glazed Australia Tomatoes Stuffed with Crispy Mushroom Salad, Heirloom Beetroot Foie Gras, Braised Cabbage with Chestnut in Saffron Sauce and Marinated Seasonal Hairy Crab in Shanghainese Style, or west-meets-east classics like Wagyu Beef Cube in Sichuan Style, Pan Seared Foie Gras with Cherries and Japanese Uni with Oba Leaf Tempura, all of which is a testament to NSB’s commitment to provide their guests with exciting reasons to return.

Chef recommended deep-fried butter prawns ($6++/pc, min. 6 for live prawns OR S$15++/pc, min. 4 for king prawns)

Chef recommended deep-fried butter prawns ($6++/pc, min. 6 for live prawns OR S$15++/pc, min. 4 for king prawns)

Petite Abalone & Scallop with Yam Nest (S$10++/pc, min. 2)

Petite Abalone & Scallop with Yam Nest (S$10++/pc, min. 2)

A closer look at the scallop buried in the nest

A closer look at the scallop buried in the nest

Wagyu Beef Cubes in Sichuan Style (S$68++)

Wagyu Beef Cubes in Sichuan Style (S$68++)

With mala being all the rage right now, it won’t be surprising to have at least one dish on the menu that is cooked with Sichuan peppercorns. While you certainly can’t go wrong with mala, caution needs to be taken to ensure that these proportionally-diced beef cubes are cooked to the desired tenderness – something which NSB has nailed perfectly.

Espresso Kurobuta Pork Ribs with Hazelnut Crumble (S$15++/pc, min. 4)

Espresso Kurobuta Pork Ribs with Hazelnut Crumble (S$15++/pc, min. 4)

Grilled Portobello Mushroom (S$32++)

Grilled Portobello Mushroom (S$32++)

The Grilled Portobello Mushroom is lightly seasoned so the taste of the mushrooms can be enjoyed to the fullest. Although grilled to the right crispness, sufficient amount of moisture is still locked within the mushrooms.

The mushrooms were glistening...

The mushrooms were glistening…

Regardless of any new dishes that NSB is betting on, the unspoken winner is ultimately the Chilli Alaskan King Crab which chilli paste recipe has meticulously been maintained true to its original over the years despite the menu having gone through an overhaul. However, if you are itching for a change, there is always the option of White Pepper Alaskan King Crab which NSB is more known for. In any case, ordering crab(s) is a must-do when you are playing host because, heck, that’s probably the national dish your foreign friends are dying to try in Singapore!

Chilli Sri Lankan Crab with Macaroni (Medium: S$10++/100g, Large: S$13.80++/100g, Dungeness Crab: S$128++/ea)

Chilli Sri Lankan Crab with Macaroni (Medium: S$10/100g, Large: S$13.80/100g, Dungeness Crab: S$128/ea)

Singapore may be touted as the land of chilli crabs, but there are people among us who find it a chore to eat them. Therefore, I actually thought it was very clever of NSB to come up with a chilli crab dish that is served with macaroni (in the carapace) so that it can be enjoyed by everyone.

Signature Fresh Mango Compote with Coconut Sago & Pomelo (S$10++/ea)

Signature Fresh Mango Compote with Coconut Sago & Pomelo (S$10++/ea)

Unlike typical mango pomelo sago you see at other restaurants, NSB’s rendition separates the pomelo and coconut sago from the mango compote so you can adjust the amount of these dry ingredients you want to add into the bowl, and it also comes with edible flower petals. The interesting presentation aside, I would expect this to have a more varied taste (considering that it contains some unusual ingredients like the petals and coconut sago) and a thicker, not so watered-down consistency. But on the plus side, it is not overwhelmingly sweet which is great for people who need to control their sugar intake. Quite frankly, the Signature Fresh Mango Compote with Coconut Sago & Pomelo is just a glorified version of mango pomelo sago. I say pass on this one and get orh nee (yam paste) instead for the same price 😜

Apart from the food, what’s also worth mentioning is, perhaps, the interior design of the restaurant. Gone is the gloomy Victorian-era decorating that used to adorn the restaurant. Upon entering the newly renovated outlet, guests will be greeted by a bright and welcoming dining area with a virtual ceiling aquarium on the left and a glass window that looks into the kitchen on the right to proudly exhibit the dexterity of the chefs while they are preparing the dishes.

Open kitchen concept

Open kitchen concept

All the tables would be readied with the necessary tableware such as crab crackers and meat pickers (because who doesn’t order crabs at NSB, right? But don’t worry, no one’s gonna judge you if you don’t 😆), and a really cute crab-shaped chopstick rest for each diner. In addition, wet wipes individually packaged in plastic packets are replaced by not one, but TWO tablet napkins which expand to full size when they come in contact with water (although I’m not quite sure if these napkins are still chargeable to the diners so please check with the staff before you proceed to use them 🙊). Take notes, prospective restaurateurs – that’s one way of being more environmentally-friendly without compromising on the diners’ experience! *cough*nostrawmovement*cough* 

Tablet napkins - 2 per person. Just drop the "tablets" into the little pond and watch them grow!

Tablet napkins – 2 per person. Just drop the “tablets” into the little pond and watch them grow!

Adorable crab-shaped chopstick rest. Look, it even has a baby crab next to it to support your meat picker!

Adorable crab-shaped chopstick rest. Look, it even has a baby crab next to it to support your meat picker!

All in all, the food lived up to my expectations and the incorporation of fusion cuisine is certainly a refreshing change. Given that the tastes and elements of the different cuisines are notably present in the most of the fusion dishes, it is evident that considerable thought was put into the recipes.

What do you think?

Thanks for reading!

No Signboard Seafood · Esplanade 8 Raffles Ave # 01-14/16 Singapore 039802 · Operating hours: 11 am – 2.30 pm & 5.30 pm – 10.30 pm · Nearest MRT station: Esplanade (cc3), City Hall (NS25/EW13) · For more information, please visit No Signboard Seafood FACEBOOK PAGE, INSTAGRAM or WEBSITE. Alternatively, you may download the menu HERE.

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