Baci Baci Ristorante Italiano

 A visit to Baci Baci for authentic Italian fare, tucked away at the charming corner of Lichfield Road, just adjacent to Walmer Drive.

Baci Baci Restaurant (Night)

Enjoying their flavourful pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and timeless Italian desserts — each thoughtfully crafted with quality ingredients, delivering a comforting and classic dining experience in a cosy neighbourhood setting.

Baci Baci Restaurant Adjacent to Walmer Drive

Located at the end of a row of charming shophouses, Baci Baci carries a quiet, tucked-away appeal. Dining at their outdoor corner seating felt especially inviting, a cosy and slightly exclusive spot that offers a more intimate experience, perfect for a relaxed meal away from the bustle.

Outdoor Settings

Stepping indoors, the space is neatly furnished with warm, inviting touches. The walls are adorned with beautiful Venice-inspired artwork, adding a subtle European charm, while the encaustic tile flooring further enhances the space with its classic Mediterranean character. The blend of these elements creates a cosy and welcoming dining ambience.

Interior

As you step into the restaurant, their wine room greets you just beside the counter, offering a glimpse into a well-curated selection of bottles. The cosy space, lined with neatly displayed wines, adds a charming touch to the entrance and sets the tone for an authentic Italian dining experience.

Wine Section

A closer look at one of their prized selections a Barolo Riserva 2018, showcasing the depth and elegance of Italian wines, perfect for pairing with a hearty meal.

Wine

Walking deeper into the restaurant, you’ll find their open-concept wood-fired pizza oven taking centre stage. The glowing flames and rustic oven setup not only add to the ambience but also hint at the authentic flavours behind their freshly made pizzas.

Wood-Fired Pizza Oven

As soon as we were seated, this eye-catching vintage-style meat slicer immediately caught my attention, displayed neatly right beside our table. It added an interesting and authentic touch to the space, hinting at the restaurant’s appreciation for traditional Italian craftsmanship.

Vintage Meat Slicer

We also had the chance to watch our Bacon & Cheese pizza being crafted from scratch. From the careful layering of ingredients to the final touches before heading into the oven, it was fascinating to see the process unfold so beautifully right before our eyes.

Our Pizza from Scratch

Not only did we get to watch the process up close, but we also saw how skilfully the staff handled the baking. With practiced precision, the pizza was carefully rotated and monitored in the wood-fired oven, showcasing both technique and experience behind each perfectly baked creation.

Making of Pizza 

We started with the Burrata Pugliese , a delightful combination of creamy burrata paired with Parma ham, fresh green salad, and juicy tomatoes, offering a light yet indulgent start to the meal.

Burrata Pugliese - $34

Next, we had the Cacciucco, an Italian-style mixed seafood stew in a rich tomato base. The prawns were plump and succulent, with a satisfying texture that stood out. The luscious, flavourful tomato sauce was especially enjoyable, perfect for dipping with their bread and soaking up every bit of goodness.

Cacciucco - $33

We also picked one of their signature pizzas, the Bacon & Cheese. Topped with mozzarella, crispy bacon, smoked scamorza cheese, roasted potatoes, chilli, rosemary, and mini San Marzano tomatoes, each bite was rich, savoury, and beautifully balanced with layers of flavour.

Bacon Cheese Pizza - $35

My friend was especially impressed by the Spaghetti al Nero di Seppia, a squid ink pasta tossed with garlic, chilli, and mixed seafood. The prawns were once again plump and satisfying, complemented by squid, mussels, and clams. The pasta itself was cooked to al dente perfection, coated in a rich, briny squid ink sauce that brought everything together beautifully.

Spaghetti al nero di seppoa - $34

For the main, we shared the Tagliata Rucola Scaglie di Grana e Balsamico. The ribeye was cooked to a perfect medium, tender and juicy with a satisfying texture. Topped with shaved cheese and paired with roasted potatoes and fresh rocket leaves, the dish was beautifully balanced, with a light touch of balsamic bringing everything together.

Tagliata rucola scaglie di grana e balsamico - $54

We ended the meal on a sweet note with a Chocolate Salami paired with a scoop of pistachio gelato. Beautifully presented on a log-like plate, it was accompanied by figs, grapes, and strawberries on the side. The chocolate salami was delicately dusted with icing sugar, adding a lovely finishing touch to this indulgent dessert.

Chocolate Salami - $18

All in all, the food was enjoyable and the service commendable. While the location may be tucked a little deeper within the estate, it makes for a great spot when you are craving authentic Italian fare, or even a cosy setting for a romantic date.

Baci Baci Ristorante Italiano
Location: 27 Lichfield Rd, Singapore 556847
Website

Gyusei Gyukatsu Wagyu-Steakhouse (Halal Japanese A5 Charcoal-Smoked Wagyukatsu Specialist)

 Gyusei Gyukatsu Wagyu-Steakhouse is a halal Japanese dining spot located in Singapore, specialising in premium A5 wagyu gyukatsu. Known for its charcoal-smoked preparation, the restaurant offers a unique twist to the classic katsu experience, allowing diners to enjoy tender, flavourful wagyu with a lightly crisp coating. With its cosy, Kyoto-inspired setting and approachable concept, it makes for a great place to enjoy a satisfying and slightly elevated Japanese meal in the heart of the city.

Gyusei Gyukatsu Wagyu-Steakhouse (Halal Japanese A5 Charcoal-Smoked Wagyukatsu Specialist)

While Singapore is home to many Tonkatsu eateries, Gyu Katsu remains a rather unique offering in the local dining scene. It came as a pleasant surprise that GyuSei is already well-known among the Muslim community, as the steakhouse gradually filled up not long after our arrival. The steady crowd speaks for itself, highlighting its growing popularity, especially for those seeking a halal-friendly wagyu katsu experience.

GyuSei

We went for the A5 Ribeye Set, which comes as a well-rounded meal with free-flow rice, shredded cabbage salad, and miso soup. It also includes an umami-rich onsen egg that adds an extra layer of indulgence to the experience, making the set both satisfying and complete.

Complimenting the A5 Ribeye Set

A comforting bowl of miso soup with a light yet umami-rich broth. The silky tofu adds softness, while the wakame brings a gentle ocean freshness, simple, warm, and satisfying.

Miso Soup

On the table, a handy guide walks diners through enjoying the Grilled Wagyu Katsu, pairing it with 12 handcrafted condiments to explore different flavour combinations with every bite.

How to enjoy Signature Charcoal Grilled Wagyukatsu

I was amazed by the presentation the A5 Striploin Beef Cutlet beautifully arranged on a palette, accompanied by shredded cabbage, potato salad, and 12 condiments thoughtfully placed around it for a complete tasting experience.

A5 Striploin Beef Cutlet

We enjoyed grilling the cut on the hot stone, lightly searing it to our preferred doneness while the fats slowly melted, enhancing its rich flavour.

Cooking to our preferred doneness

The A5 ribeye beef was presented in a similar style, with evenly sliced pieces that were noticeably longer than the cutlet, offering a more generous bite.

A5 Ribeye Beef

The ribeye beef katsu was impressively long almost matching the length of the square sizzling plate on the stove, making it a standout both in portion and presentation.

Cooking to our preferred doneness

Agedashi tofu, lightly battered and crisp on the outside, paired with ponzu radish, bonito flakes, negi, and nori for a delicate balance of savoury and umami flavours.

Agedashi Tofu - $12

Menchikatsu featuring 100g of A5 and Australian ground beef, coated in a crisp golden crust and served with katsu sauce for a juicy, flavourful bite.

Menchikatsu - $12

Housemade Japanese Beef Curry Stew made with A5 Wagyu tenderloin trimmings, featuring a thick, rich gravy that was deeply satisfying, especially when mixed with a bowl of white rice.

Housemade Japanese Beef Curry Stew - $14

Overall, it was a great experience enjoying Gyukatsu here, made even better by its halal-friendly offering. From the interactive grilling to the variety of condiments, every element added to the enjoyment definitely a spot worth visiting for a unique and satisfying meal.

Gyusei Gyukatsu Wagyu-Steakhouse (Halal Japanese A5 Charcoal-Smoked Wagyukatsu Specialist)

Gyusei Gyukatsu Wagyu-Steakhouse (Halal Japanese A5 Charcoal-Smoked Wagyukatsu Specialist)
Location:  Hotel Clover,775 North Bridge Rd, Level 1 Singapore 198743

個室焼肉 萬 Yorozu

We finally arrived in Kyoto for dinner, where we were treated to a yakiniku experience to end the day on a satisfying note.

個室焼肉 萬 Yorozu

Menu

Gathered around the table, we settled in for a lively yakiniku experience as plates of marinated meats were served and placed over the charcoal grill. 

Our Dinner

Slowly grilling each cut to our preferred doneness added to the enjoyment, making the meal both interactive and satisfying. The spread was complemented by classic sides such as kimchi, beansprouts, and a light clear soup, rounding out a hearty and communal dining experience.

Grilling Starts

Beyond the meat platters, the ika offers a refreshing contrast, its tender texture paired with a light marinade that enhances its natural sweetness.

Ika

The fresh greens offer a light, refreshing balance to the meal, their natural crispness standing out even without added seasoning.

Greens

Meat & Sauce

The grilled beef delivers a satisfying smoky flavour, with the sauce lending a savoury depth that elevates its overall richness.

個室焼肉 萬 Yorozu
Location: 323-4 Shinnyodocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0853, Japan

Nong Geng Ji (VivoCity) 农耕记湖南土菜

 A midweek visit to Nong Geng Ji for some bold Hunan flavours turned out to be livelier than expected, with the front area already packed with eager diners.

Nong Geng Ji (Vivocity) Branch

Tucked away in a quieter corner deeper inside, our small group found the perfect spot to unwind sharing hearty dishes, easy conversations, and plenty of laughter in a more peaceful setting.

Back End Seatings

At Nong Geng Ji, the décor beautifully reflects its name, “Nong” (农), meaning farm through a warm and immersive countryside setting. A large mural of rustic village houses surrounded by lush greenery sets the tone, evoking the simplicity and charm of rural Hunan living. Paired with earthy tones and homely textures, the space feels comforting and grounded, perfectly echoing the restaurant’s focus on hearty, farm-style cuisine.

Nong Geng Ji Decor

We started the meal with a comforting bowl of Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth soup, perfect for sharing among the table. The broth was rich yet clean, delivering a homely, stomach-warming quality that reminded us of a hearty home-cooked dinner. The lotus root was well-prepared, retaining a soft yet slightly crunchy texture, while the pork ribs were tender and flavourful, adding depth and natural sweetness to the soup.

Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth 莲藕排骨汤

Another comforting classic has to be the Steamed Organic Egg with Minced Pork, a dish that instantly brings back memories of a typical Chinese Singaporean home-cooked meal. The eggs were silky smooth and custardy, soaking up the savoury juices from the well-seasoned minced pork on top. Simple yet nourishing, this humble dish delivers both flavour and protein, making it a timeless favourite that never fails to satisfy.

Steamed Organic Egg with Minced Pork 肉沫蒸有机蛋

The Braised Pork with Preserved Mustard Greens pairs perfectly with a bowl of rice, offering a comforting balance of savoury and umami flavours. The pork was well-marinated, allowing the flavours to fully penetrate and enhance the overall taste of the dish. Tender and less fatty than the usual cuts, it leans towards a lighter, healthier take while still delivering the rich, satisfying essence of this traditional favourite.

Braised Pork with Preserved Mustard Greens 梅菜扣肉

The Stir-Fried Kampong Chicken with Tea Oil was another excellent companion to our bowls of rice. Savoury with a gentle hint of spice, the dish stood out with its delightful mix of textures from the tender chicken to the crunch of turnip and black fungus. Each bite was aromatic and flavourful, with the tea oil adding a subtle fragrance that tied everything together beautifully.

Stir-Fried Kampong Chicken with Tea Oil 茶油炒甘榜鸡

A thoughtful touch to the meal is their signature serving of steamed rice, prepared in a high-pressure cooker with sweet potato and red dates. This method brings out a natural sweetness and fragrance, elevating it beyond the usual plain rice. Each bowl is light yet flavourful, with subtle hints of sweetness that pair beautifully with the savoury dishes on the table.

Steamed Rice with Sweet Potato & Red Dates 高压锅红薯米饭

The Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone & Chilli was a delightful dish, with a well-balanced sauce that coated the ingredients without being overly heavy. Each bite delivered a satisfying mix of savoury flavours, complemented by a gentle kick of spice. The abalone added a pleasant bite, elevating the dish further, while the overall harmony of flavours made it a perfect pairing with our bowls of rice.

Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone & Chilli 鲍鱼辣椒炒肉

A truly hearty and satisfying meal overall, with each dish thoughtfully executed and full of flavour. Beyond the bold Hunan influences, there was a comforting familiarity in several dishes that made the experience feel almost like a home-cooked spread. It’s the kind of meal that not only fills the stomach but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table.

Our Meal

农耕记湖南土菜 Nong Geng Ji @ VivoCity
Location: VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk, #01-51A VivoCity, Singapore 098585

和処花岡 Hanaoka in Osaka, Japan

Our first lunch in Osaka was at Hanaoka, where our guide brought us for a taste of local Japanese fare. After a long overnight flight, the anticipation for a comforting and authentic meal made this first stop all the more welcoming.

Hanaoka

The menu displayed outside highlights a range of bento set meals, suggesting a selection of hearty and well-balanced options for diners.

Menu

The walkway leading into the restaurant sets a tranquil tone, with a thoughtfully designed space that reflects a subtle Japanese aesthetic.

Walkway into Restaurant

The interior is thoughtfully designed with Japanese-inspired motifs, showcasing sakura blossoms and Mount Fuji, which adds a charming and immersive touch to the overall dining experience.

Decors

The dining area embraces a traditional Japanese setup, with low tables and wall-mounted hangers, offering a cosy and authentic atmosphere for diners.

Interior

The sight of the set meal immediately whetted my appetite. Featuring a neatly presented unagi rice box glazed with a rich, savoury sauce, it was accompanied by crispy karaage chicken and a comforting bowl of chawanmushi. The meal was further complemented by simple sides of edamame, tofu, and pickles, offering a well-balanced and satisfying spread.

Lunch

The set also includes a warm bowl of udon topped with kitsune and konbu, providing a soothing and well-balanced addition to the overall meal.

Udon

Simple, fuss-free, and satisfying, a fitting and comforting start to our Japan journey.

和処花岡 Hanaoka
Location: Japan, 〒550-0005 Osaka, Nishi Ward, Nishihonmachi, 3 Chome−1−46 奥内第５ビル 1F