Le Steak by Chef Amri | ThumbsForFood

Le Steak by Chef Amri is one of the few halal restaurants that serve up steak. As such, when I heard of it's setting up at Jalan Kayu, it has been on my must-try halal food places. For those who know Chef Amri will know that he is a Celebrity Chef on Suria Channel. Besides being known for his charming persona, Chef Amri is known for his creativity in making healthy yet tasty dishes. 

It is not difficult to spot Le Steak, especially on weekends when there is a queue. Le Steak is a casual restaurant suitable for family dining and group gatherings. You can also make a booking with Le Steak if you would like to book the venue for an event. They also have private dining room that you can make reservations. They however, do not take reservations for normal dine-in. 

Le Steak Entrance

Le Steak's Logo

On Fridays, Weekends, eve of PH and PH, Le Steak offers Fresh Shucked Live Oyster for $22 half a dozen. The oysters are really fresh. For the price, we felt that it was quite worth it. For those who have not tried raw oysters, Le Steak is definitely a good place to try some!

Fresh Shucked Live Oysters

We also ordered Onion Rings ($3) which was served with Mustard Sauce and Mayonnaise. The mayonnaise came as a shock for us because it was blue! Look at how striking the blue is. We really have no idea why the mayonnaise was blue. However, the taste of it was of starking difference to the color as it was quite bland. We feel that the price of sides in Le Steak is quite reasonable, priced at $3.

Onion Ring with Mustard and Mayonnaise

Le Steak offers 3 types of steak- Ribeye, Sirloin and Prime Tenderloin. Tenderloin is the most expensive among the 3, priced at $28.90. We feel that the steak was reasonably priced for the portion that was served. The steak was a little too well done I felt. I ordered medium but, it was more of a medium well done steak. Flavour wise, I would say it is not too bad. I felt that if it were to be served hot, it would have been better.

Ribeye

The splash of greens and mash potato was appropriate to balance the meat. The mash potato was quite finely mashed. Personally, I would have preferred it to have some bits of potato in it with a bit more buttery taste.

Sirloin

Teriyaki Chicken ($8.90) is reasonably priced as well. We felt that it was tasty, but, not outstanding.

Teriyaki Chicken

Seared Chilean Salmon ($14.90) was a little overcooked and thus, not as juicy as one would hope it would be. Nevertheless, the sauce went well with the fish. Similarly, we felt that the dish was not served hot as well, which, was a pity. Personally, I would have preferred the salmon skin to be made more crispy.

Seared Chilean Salmon

My friend ordered Seafood Marinara ($13.90) which she was quite satisfied due to the generous serving of seafood that included mussels, squid and prawns. This dish was served hot which was a great plus point. The tomato base was well-done, not too sour nor sweet. For those looking for a pasta dish, this would be a good dish to order.

Seafood Marinara

Chocolate lava with Ice cream ($10.90) tasted quite good. Was a little disappointed with the chocolate not oozy enough though. I especially liked the combination of the chocolate with the vanilla icecream. It complemented each other so well that I felt like ordering another.

Chocolate Lava Cake

Waffle with 2 scoops of Ice Cream ($8.90) is available only on weekends. I would say the waffle was quite well-done, fluffy and fragrant. The maple syrup was not too overwhelming, preserving the flavor of the waffle. I would have appreciated that they have more flavors of icecream or homemade icecream instead of only having chocolate or vanilla.

Le Waffle (with two scoops of icecream)

Overall, I feel that Le Steak offers Muslim patrons a different dining experience. We would come back again for affordable priced steak. Their desserts were quite a pleasure too. Hopefully, next time around when we dine in Le Steak, the food will be served hot!

48 Jalan Kayu, Singapore 799472

Main Line: (65) 6556 3588 

Operating Hours

Monday – Friday & Eve PH- 3.00pm – 11.00pm

Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday - 12.00pm – 11.00pm 

Cheers,

Y

Nakhon Kitchen (Kovan) | ThumbsForFood

I am sure all Thai food lovers would have heard of Nakhon Kitchen. Yes, we couldn’t believe that we haven’t done a review on this place yet especially when we have visited this place more than 5 or more times!

There are two branches of Nakhon currently- one in Kovan (the first branch) and one in Bedok North. We have been visiting Nakhon at its Kovan branch since it first opened. Since we have not tried all the Thai food in Singapore, it is difficult to conclude that it’s the best. But, it is definitely our top favorite from what we’ve tasted.

As you can see from the photo below, Nakhon Kitchen can be found under the block of flats. In Bedok, it is also similarly situated under a block of flats in a corner of the neighborhood. There is no air-conditioning but, with the fans around and the open concept of the place, it is quite cooling. I wouldn’t mind the bustling environment at all considering that they don’t charge us for GST and Service Charge!

Interior of Nakhon

A must-order is the Thai Iced Milk Tea ($3). Thai Black tea infused with condensed milk makes the drink really good. It’s different from the Milk Tea you get from bubble tea shops. Do try it if you have never had a cup of Thai Iced Milk Tea; take caution in craving for more!

Thai Iced Milk Tea 

Plain white rice is definitely necessary to go with Tom Yum, Green Curry and your dishes.

Plain Rice

The Stir Fried Kang Kong Belachan ($6) is another dish we would always order. We can’t do without vegetables in a meal and what better choice than to order something spicy and tasty? What we love about their Kang Kong is that it is well-cooked and the belachan flavor is consistent throughout the dish,

Kang Kong with Belachan

Tom Yum Soup ($6) comes in either clear or thick base (with coconut milk). We have tried both. I guess for those who prefer the pure tom yum flavor with a spicier kick, pick clear base! The coconut milk sort of neutralizes the spiciness of the tom yum soup. Personally, I prefer thick base.

Tom Yum Soup (Thick Base)

Stir-fried Mince Pork with hot basil leaves ($6) is a simple dish that appeals to us because of his tasty flavor. Besides its spiciness, it gives off a nice basil fragrance that’s not too overpowering. So for those who don’t really like basil, no harm trying!

Stir-fried Mince Pork with hot basil leaves

Phad Thai Noodles ($5) is a stir-fried rice noodle dish that is commonly served as a street food in Thailand. We feel that the Phad Thai in Nakhon is not as alluring and fantastic as the other dishes. But, it does satisfy our cravings for a plate of Phad Thai without needing to fly to Thailand for one. Please do let us know if you chance upon delicious Phad Thai in Singapore!

Phad Thai

Homemade Thai Fish Cake (4 pieces for $6) is my personal favorite! It is especially so when it is served hot and fresh. It is less spicy than Otah and the spices that they add into it makes it really good!

Homemade Thai Fish Cake

Stir fried prawn with Thai yellow curry powder ($12) is a really unique dish. I've personally not tried such a dish before. The thai yellow curry powder is a thick sauce that has a tinge of tamarind taste. Interesting dish though the flavor is not as strong as I had expected.

Stir fried prawn with Thai Yellow Curry Powder

Nakhon;s Asparagus with prawns ($6) is done really well. This is especially so when I am a fan of asparagus be it the thick larger ones as well as the smaller thinner ones like those seen below. The combination of garlic, mushrooms and prawns combined with their gravy that has oyster sauce is perfect. I can finish the whole plate by myself!

Asparagus with prawns

In a nutshell, we really like the food in Nakhon. The portion of the dish is on the small side so we tend to order many dishes to share. If you have never tried Nakhon, do give it a try! Be prepared that you might have to queue during dinner time! Drop a comment or email us to share with us your thoughts! :) 

Overall Rating: 8.5/10 

Nakhon Kitchen

212 Hougang Street 21 

#01-341 

Nearest MRT: Kovan MRT

Love, Y

Wimbly Lu Chocolate Cafe | ThumbsForFood

We've always wanted to try out Wimbly Lu after hearing much raves about it.

Stepping into Wimbly Lu, it's like stepping into somewhere away from the city and into a peculiar and cozy space. The brick walls, glass ceilings and aromatic chocolate smell lures and captivates one instantly.

Entrance 

As you step in, you will see a glass panel on the right and staff of Wimbly Lu making desserts. I really like the open kitchen concept because it really makes one feel homely. The feeling that the dessert in front of you is being made fresh and with passion just makes it special.

Drinks Counter and Display

And yes, it was raining that night when we were that. When I lifted my head, the rain drops falling onto the roof was therapeutic and beautiful.

Glass Roof

To tie in with Valentine's Day, Wimbly Lu decorated the whole place with hearts that made the whole ambience warm and romantic. What I like is the lights hitting the glass crystals hung on the ceiling which made the whole place sparkle.

Interior Decor

Drinks wise, Wimbly Lu specializes in Hot Chocolate. They offer the Classic and Mayan Hot Chocolate. Mayan Hot Chocolate has spices added. For those who are adventurous, do try the Mayan one. The classic Hot Chocolate is really good, especially on a rainy day. The floating marshmellow go really well with the thick and aroma-filled chocolate. 

Classic Hot Chocolate ($5.50)

The coffee is also aromatic. For coffee lovers, they do have a variety for you to choose from.

Cappuccino ($5)

Cafe Latte ($5)

For those seeking some alcohol, do try their beer selection. They offer Lindemans which have fruity flavors. Good for those who are seeking something sweeter.

Lindemans  Beer (about $10)

We tried 3 desserts that night. 

Wimbly Lu serves waffles that are crispier and airier in the inside. Not so fluffy. It goes really well with their ice-cream and you can choose the flavor you like!

Waffles with Ice Cream and Toffee Sauce ($8.5)

Root Beer Cake was really unique but I felt, it didn't have a very distinct root beer flavor to it. More chocolatey than root beer. The portion however, was quite small.

Root Beer Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream ($6)

Molten Lava Cake was not bad with flowy insides. I felt that the sides were a little too overheated though. It would be better with icecream combination! 

Molten Lava Cake ($6)

Shop Front 

Opening Hours

Overall, we really liked the ambience of Wimbly Lu. It makes chilling in Wimbly Lu comfortable and relaxing. Good place to spend the night with desserts and friends. Food wise, we feel that it is quite affordable and thus, we are looking forward to returning back soon! 

Our Rating: 8/10

Wimbly Lu
15 Jalan Riang
358987
Tel: 6289 1489

Toa Payoh - Hwa Heng Beef Noodle | ThumbsForFood

Beef noodle is one of my favourite hawker food. But, it normally doesn't come cheap. I think most of us are familiar with Hock Lam Beef Noodles. One bowl of noodles would set you behind by about $10. 

Well, if  you are looking for value, visit the stall at Bendemeer Food Centre. It is only 5 minutes walk from the Boon Keng MRT station! There was a slight queue when we went there at about 1 pm on a Saturday. 

We had the Sliced Beef + Beef balls noodles as we do not eat the other parts of the beef (e.g. tendons) They have the $3/$4 options which is really affordable. I especially like that they added sesame oil to the black sauce. The taste of the sesame oil is strong enough for me to spot it! Their chili is different from that at Hock Lam but I liked it.

Well, doesn't this photo just make you feel like eating Hwa Heng Beef Noodle now? [:

Well, it is definitely a good find! So, try it for yourself!

Our ratings of Hwa Heng Beef Noodle: 7.8/10

29 Bendemeer Road
#01-01 Bendemeer Food Centre
96381278

Cheers,

Z

Chillax Massage Cafe (Serangoon Gardens) | ThumbsForFood

After dinner at Arbite, we decided to adjourn to Chillax Massage Cafe for some truffle fries and some chilling time!

Chillax Massage Cafe is a non air-conditioned cafe. The style of the cafe seems to be more raw and open which makes chilling there quite comfortable. It's like you do not need to be bothered by the way you're dressed or the way you talk and you can just be yourself and unwind. I guess especially during night time when it is more cooling, it is good to sit on the outdoors and just chitchat with friends freely. The street beside the cafe has very low traffic so you don't have to be worried about noise. 

Exterior of shop at night

I particularly like the concept of the cafe as it puts a lot of different vintage elements in the cafe yet, they have a bar, a ice-cream counter (ben&jerry's) and a very modern looking and nice toilet (or rather basin area).

Truffle Fries ($10), is not the best truffle fries ever, but, it really is a good finger food to go with some drinks. They do serve beers at rather reasonable rates which you can try. There are a few tables who ordered their bucket of beer. 

Food wise, they have quite a variety of main course as well as all-day breakfast. I heard that their eggs ben are good! I guess I will try their breakfast menu on my next visit!

Truffle fried

Drinks wise, we chose to order their ice-blended drinks (around $6 a cup). The chocolate and malt ice blended was alright. We felt that it was a little tat bit too diluted. The yuzu ice-blended drink was more refreshing. However, we also felt that it was a bit too diluted. Probably because they added too much ice.

My overall verdict? Actually, I can't give a rating now because I only tried it's truffle fries. For the ambience, I feel that it is not the high-classed kind, rather, it's vibe is more relaxing and one that has no worries. It also has a massage menu as it's name suggests. So, if you're up for some massage, you could give it a try.

If you're looking for a more relaxed and peaceful place to chitchat, I guess you can consider Chillax Massage Cafe as this place is not known to many and thus, can be quite peaceful on Friday nights where you can chill with one whole big group of friends.

28 Maju Avenue
1st Level Serangoon Garden Estate
Tel: 6244 5529

Love,
Y

Arbite (Serangoon Gardens) | ThumbsForFood

Serangoon Gardens has many hidden treasures! One of them is the quite widely raved about Arbite! 

It is situated right above Guardian and beside Sushi Tei. It is not difficult to navigate there even if you don't drive because there are many buses that go into the Serangoon Garden Circus. 

Located just above Guardian

Make your way to the entrance of Arbite which is quite prominent with its signboards placed around the area! Climb the staircase and you'll find yourself in the restaurant.

You'll step into a simple yet sleek restaurant that gives off a cozy feeling with its white and brown furniture. You'll see that there is a signboard at the corner of the restaurant that explains what Arbite means, where they pride themselves for quality food and drink, warm service and fair prices.

Interior of Arbite

What Arbite stands for and the Specials of the day!

Classy White Minimalist-themed

Love the shelves with random displays 

We started our meal with some drinks. I ordered Cult beer ($14) purely out of curiosity. It is a seasonal Belgium beer and thus limited in stock. The beer pours out with a white bottle head and exudes an amber colour with orange hues. It is quite bitter to me as it's a pale ale. The have other beer choices such as the fruitier Lindemann and others priced around $12-$14.

Cult Beer ($14)

My friends ordered other drinks such as the Pompelmo ($3) - Pomegranate flavored and Banana Chocolate Milkshake ($6). The Pompelmo wasn't very special. Banana and Chocolate Milkshake was on the other hand sweeter and thicker. As you can see from the photo below, chocolate is added into the Banana Milkshake. As such, the taste of Chocolate did not overpower the Banana taste. If you're bringing kids, this drink could possibly be a favorite. 

Pompelmo ($3)

Banana Chocolate Milkshake ($6)

Now for the Mains!

The Green Tea Fettuccine with Smoked Duck ($24.90) was recommended by the waiter. It is quite unique as I have never tried Green Tea flavored pasta before. It is handmade by the chef from dough and infused with Green Tea Flavor. Really, it is quite tasty! The Green Tea taste was appropriate. It is best eaten when served hot. The Smoked Duck, to me tasted good. I really like it in relative to my friend who felt that it tasted like Ham. I felt that it was seasoned and cooked to perfection for the duck meat was not tough but, smooth and juicy.

I guess the portion was alright. For the price, my friends felt that it was on the steep side. For me, I felt that since it was homemade from scratch, it is rather reasonable. The unique Green Tea flavor was a plus point for me.

Green Tea Fettuccine ($24.90)

Next, Arbite Breakfast ($15). The portion is quite hearty. And it has variety! With mushrooms, bacon, tomato, greens, potato balls, bread, scrambled eggs and baked beans, it really is quite a wholesome meal. Taste wise, I must say there's really nothing out-of-the-ordinary. My favorite perhaps would be the potato balls. Other than that, nothing too special for the taste. $15 for the meal i think it's quite reasonable for it's portion and variety in relative to other Brunch places.

Arbite Breakfast ($15)

We ended off our meal with My Wife's Chocolate Cake ($8)! It came with a serving of Movepick's Icecream. The chocolate cake is not bad. But, I felt it would be better if it is served warmer in contrast to the cold scoop of icecream. I like the layer of Chocolate on top and on the side of the cake. It is also a bit on the dark chocolate side which really complements with the Ice-cream. However, I felt that the Ice-cream flavor could be more sweet and strong because it tasted quite bland. Give it a try if you like chocolate cakes!

My Wife's Chocolate Cake ($8)

Overall, the service was great as the staff were attentive to our needs. I like the cozy and warm ambience and would recommend it for friends' gatherings rather than a romantic dinner for 2. Arbite has a 1-for-1 set lunch for UOB Cardholders. With such good deal, I think I would come back for some lunch! And they do have takeaway service where you can call them to order and collect later!

My Ratings: 8/10

Must Tries: Green Tea Fettuccine 

Arbite

66 Serangoon Garden Way

Singapore 555962

www.arbite.com.sg

Opening hours:

Monday (Closed)

Tues to Fri: (Lunch) 11.30am-3pm (Dinner) 6pm-10.30pm

Sat to Sun: 11am-10.30pm

Last orders at 2.30pm and 9.45pm

Till next time,

Y