Tag: Steak

Fine Dining On A Budget: S’pore Steakhouse ‘Fat Belly’ Serves 6-Course Meal With Wagyu Steak For Just $78

Despite the fact that my job pretty much revolves around food, I’ve never been one for fine dining — I’ve never been able to justify the price-to-portion ratio in my head (“$100 for a single scallop!?”), and the closest I’ve gotten to it is watching Gordon Ramsay cooking on YouTube.

It would seem then, that Fat Belly’s Alternative Steak Experience is the perfect middle ground for someone like me — for $78, this “speakeasy steakhouse” in the Botanic Gardens area is offering a six-course meal centered around their alternative wagyu steak cuts.

With an open mind and open-er stomach, I headed down to try it out.

Raising The Steaks

Before we get into the food, something needs to be said about the ambience.

The entirety of Fat Belly is comprised of a cozy bar counter that sits 10 (it shares a space with its sister restaurant, Sugarhaus), and an open kitchen concept allows you to watch the chef prepare your meal as the fragrant smells act as a mouth-watering precursor for what’s to come.

The close proximity of everything makes for an rather intimate experience, making it a great place if you’re running out of date night ideas.

You know you’re in for a good time when your appetisers have appetisers, or a “pre-dinner snack”, as the chef called it. This part of the meal varies from day to day, and I was served Homemade Rice Crackers — sprinkled with beef salt and furikake, this light starter definitely got me in the mood for food.

The meal then began in earnest with the Foi Gras Creme brûlée. The ignorant foodie in me expected the dish to be sweet, but it gave off a truffle-like taste instead (alternative experience, indeed). Fans of savoury food will enjoy this, but it does lean on the stronger side and might be a little too overwhelming for some.

The saltiness of the previous two dishes had me craving for meat, and it just so happened that the next appetiser consisted of a Skewered Wagyu Beef Intercostal (that’s the space between the ribs, for those of you who didn’t know). Cooking the meat in red wine gave it an alcoholic aftertaste, and the addition of chimichurri sauce added another fresh dimension to the already-flavourful dish.

Next up was the Tajima Beef Char Siew, which I can only describe as “char siew on steroids”. Draped in a house sauce consisting of honey and fermented red beancurd, the distinct char siew taste was especially strong, and when paired with the accompanying kale made for a balanced and satisfying bite.

You’d think that three appetisers would be enough, but the chef had one more up trick up his sleeve in the form of a Wagyu Slider (not that I was complaining). Sandwiched between homemade potato buns and melted Gouda cheese, the mini burger gave off a buttery umami flavour, and was the perfect end to the string of appetisers.

Finally, it was time for the main event — the Marble Score 8 Grilled Tajima Tri-Tip, and a USDA 150 day Grain Fed Angus Flat Iron Steak from the a la carte menu as well. Eating the two side by side really exemplified how different cuts can provide wildly different experiences — the flat iron was so tender that it pretty much melted in my mouth, while the Tajima tri-tip was probably the most flavourful steak I had ever eaten in my life. There’s no wrong choice here.

And what better way to end a meal than with some dessert? The Molten Lava Chocolate Cake was extremely rich, and the addition of raspberry helped to mix things up as well. The cinnamon gelato from Sugarhaus that’s served alongside it warrants a writeup of its own, but that’s an article for another day.

I was always under the impression that fine dining wouldn’t fill my stomach, but I was surprisingly full at the end of the meal (I suppose six courses will do that to you). From sweet to savoury to every thing else in between, pretty much every taste receptor had been satisfied.

And even if you aren’t up for such an extravagant meal, their surprisingly affordable a la carte menu is worth checking out as well — the aforementioned Flat Iron Steak goes for a very reasonable $22, and sides like Truffle Fries and Sauteed Thyme Mushroom cost a mere $5.

Fat Belly’s Alternative Steak Experience strikes the perfect balance between fine dining and…well, normal dining, and proves that you don’t have to break the bank for a premium culinary experience (relatively speaking, at least).

If you’re ever in the mood to treat yo self, Fat Belly is definitely one place to consider.

Fat Belly
Address: Serene Centre, 10 Jalan Serene #01-04, Singapore 258748
Opening Hours: 6pm-10pm (Monday – Thursday, Sunday), 6pm-11pm (Friday, Saturday)

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8 Steakhouses In Singapore That Will ‘Meat’ Your Expectations For Under $50

Correct me if I’m wrong but there’s nothing better than biting into a thick, juicy cut of perfectly cooked steak.

Some steakhouses in Singapore can get pretty pricey but if you’re looking for a place to bring bae out for a fancy dinner that won’t break the bank, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a list of the best steaks in Singapore that is most definitely value for your money.

A Carnivore’s Dream

1. iSTEAKS Diner

iSTEAKS is the perfect place for you and your carne-loving friends if you’re craving for a good piece of steak that won’t have you robbing the bank.

The steaks here are cooked to perfection so you know you’ll sink your teeth into a tender and juicy piece of steak.

The New Zealand Ribeye 200g (from $19.50) and Australian 100 Days Grain Fed Ribeye 200g ($21.50) are both juicy and downright satisfying.

You can be sure that your steak will be cooked to perfection.

This eatery does not take in reservations so be prepared to wait for a seat.

iSTEAKS Diner (Holland Village)
Address: 17A Lor Liput, Singapore 277731
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs: 11am – 11pm, Fri – Sat: 11am – 12am
Contact No.: 6463 3165
Website

iSTEAKS Diner (My Village)
Address: 1 Maju Ave, Singapore 556679
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs: 11am – 11pm, Fri – Sat: 11am – 12am
Contact No.: 6285 8839

2. Meat n’ Chill

This diner located along Bukit Timah Road is known for serving up American fare such as burgers and ribs.

Meat n’ Chill is known for serving up a gigantic 500g New York Strip at just $35. Talk about value for money!

However, if you don’t have a monstrous appetite, the New York Strip 300g ($21) will be perfect for you. It also comes with 2 sides of your choice.

Do note that they make limited orders for steak per day as the process to prepare these meats are long.

Meat n’ Chill
Address: 805, Bukit Timah Road, #01-04, Singapore 279883
Opening Hours: Tues – Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11pm, Sat – Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm, Closed on Mondays.
Contact No.: 8812 4455
Website

3. The Royals Steakhouse

The Royals franchise started out as a dessert and cake shop along East Coast Road. As business grew, they continued to open restaurants all over the city.

The Royals Steakhouse started business in 2015, in a little shophouse unit along Jalan Pisang serving premium quality Halal steaks from Australia and New Zealand.

In fact, the steak here is so good that they separate the sauces from the meat so you can truly taste the original flavour of the steak.

The Tomahawk steak seems like something from The Flintstones, but this huge slab of steak is perfect for sharing with family.

Priced at $9.50 per 100g, the Tomahawk steak typically weighs between 1.3kg – 1.5kg. The price is such a steal however for a limited time only as it is an introductory offer for their Tomahawk.

Just look at the amount of meat!

https://www.facebook.com/TheRoyalsSteakhouse/videos/1658015967611357/

As the Tomahawk is a special item on the menu, customers are advised to call up beforehand to enquire about stock availability and to make reservations.

Just in case you prefer something that isn’t too crazy, The Prime New Zealand Ribeye 200-220g ($28) is the perfect choice for you.

The ribeye is lightly dabbed with salt before grilling. The exterior is nicely charred while retaining a juicy red centre.

Due to limited seats, reservations are strongly encouraged so you won’t be disappointed by the long queues!

The Royals Steakhouse
Address: 10 Jalan Pisang, Singapore 199077
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs: 1pm – 10.30pm, Fri – Sat: 1pm – 11.30pm, Closed on Tuesdays.
Contact No.: 6291 3326
Website

4. T Bob’s Corner

T Bob’s Corner is a Muslim owned cafe located in the corner of a HDB in Bedok. Despite its rather interesting location, they serve huge portions of steak at very reasonable prices.

The Black Angus Striploin ($28.90) comes with your choice of black pepper sauce or brown gravy.

They also serve this crazy 1.4kg Angus Tomahawk ($159.90) if you’ve got an appetite of a whale. It’s ridiculously huge and serves up to 4 people. It still costs under $40 per head when shared among 4 friends.

Just look at it.

T Bob’s Corner is known for their huge portions, so do come with an empty stomach. We warned you.

T Bob’s Corner
Address: 527 Bedok North Street 3, #01-514, Singapore 460527
Opening Hours: Sun – Thur: 12pm – 10pm, Fri: 3pm – 11pm, Sat: 12pm – 11pm
Contact No.: 6449 8527
Website

5. Huber’s Butchery & Bistro

You’ll probably know Huber’s Butchery for supplying meat to restaurants around Singapore. However, did you know that you can dine in at Huber’s Bistro?

There’s not much options for steaks you can choose from however we do recommend you getting the U.S. Prime Sirloin Steak 220g ($28). It is served with a herb and butter flavoured brown sauce.

If you like your steak tender, packed full of flavour and still moo-ing then the onglet is much cheaper and has three times the flavour.

Huber’s Angus Hanging Onglet 160g ($18) is the perfect choice if you enjoy the strong beefy flavour. It comes topped with onion confit and served with fries.

Huber’s Butchery & Bistro
Address: 22 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249679
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 9.30am – 8pm, Sat – Sun: 9.30am – 7pm
Contact No.: 6737 1588
Website

6. Les Bouchons

Les Bouchons is known for serving one of the best steak and fries in town. This quaint parisian style restaurant may be small but their steak frites are highly raved about.

Served medium rare, the Ribeye Steak Frites ($39.80) sports a crusty char and tender, juicy meat. At just $39.80, it is incredibly value for money.

The steak frites comes with a cap of vigneron flavoured butter which adds a depth of flavour to the steak. It also comes with a house salad and free flow fries.

If you’re looking for a romantic date night, Les Bouchons is definitely the place to go to!

Les Bouchons (Ann Siang)
Address: 7 Ann Siang Rd, Singapore 069689
Contact No.: 6423 0737
7. GastroSmiths

GastroSmiths is a popular bistro that serves up unique fusions from various cuisines. They never fail to impress us with their interesting and quality cuisine.

Did we mention there’s no service charge and GST at GastroSmiths?

This is definitely the most pocket-friendly option if you want to indulge in a good piece of steak without having to eat grass for the rest of the month.

GastroSmiths
Address: i12 Katong, 112 East Coast Road #03-06, Singapore 428802
Opening Hours: Tues – Fri: 11.30am – 9.30pm, Sat – Sun: 11am – 9.30pm, Closed on Mondays
Contact No.: 9772 9511
Website

8. boCHINche

boChinche is the perfect place to head down to if you’re looking for a steak lunch in the CBD area. This Argentinian restaurant serves up value for money set lunches so you get to indulge without breaking the bank.

Their Lunch Prix-Frixe menu offers a choice of 2 or 3 courses ($32/$38).

Known for their meats, the Argentine Flank Steak served with wedges and chimichurri mayo is the most loved item on their Prixe-Frixe menu!

Pro-tip: Before you reserve your seat, check their Instagram account (@bochinchesg) for the week’s menu.

boCHINche
Address: 115 Amoy Street #01-02, Singapore 069935
Opening Hours:  Mon – Thurs: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm, Fri – Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 11pm, Closed on Sundays
Contact No.: 6235 4990
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Wanna Share? 7 Steakhouses With Portions So Huge, You Need To Call Your Entire Squad!

Who can resist a good steak? Be it Wagyu or Angus, a seared chunk of peppered beef never fails to tickle our taste buds.

But not all of us are built to chow down 300g-portions effortlessly. For the light eaters, sharing a meal with friends is the perfect solution! Here are 7 steakhouses that offer some of the most generous sharing portions you can find in Singapore!

1. Morton’s The Steakhouse

Start off your steakhunt with one of the more atas spots: at Mandarin Oriental Hotel!

Swanky international restaurant Morton’s maintains its name by using the highest quality, US Department of Agriculture-designated ‘prime’ steak.

Image: pinkypiggu.com

We recommend the Double Porterhouse Steak (1.3kg at $250++), which can serve around four to five pax! If you’re still craving for more, get a ribeye (460g at $102) to share between two to three peeps.

Morton’s The Steakhouse
Address: 5 Raffles Avenue, Fourth Storey, Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Singapore 039797
Tel: 6339 3740

2. Badoque Café

Nothing beats a food joint with friendly service!

Not only does Badoque Café have warm and approachable service staff, but they also whip up a really good steak too.

Image: thehalalfoodblog.com

Feast like royalty with their “King & Queen” promotion, which unites 1.2kg worth of ribeye with a 1.3kg king crab for $298. The set also comes with two starters (blue oyster and Greek salad), four soups and four drinks. This serves about five to six pax!

Badoque Café
Address: 246 Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 574370
Tel: 6552 1646

3. iSTEAKS Diner

This grill-specialist has gathered a sizable fan following since its conception as a humble hawker stall in Serangoon Gardens years ago.

Having evolved into a modern diner, the long queues at both its current branches at MyVillage (Serangoon) and Holland Village are no doubt due to the superb and affordable grilled meats that iSTEAKS whips up.

Share a 1.2kg Australian Wagyu D-Rump amongst four pax at $85 (includes four complementary sides), or a 600g Australian Porterhouse T-bone for $49. They make fantastic burgers too! Yummeh!

iSTEAKS Diner
Address: MyVillage, 1 Maju Ave, Singapore 556679
Tel: 6285 8839

4. Bedrock Bar & Grill

Think chic dark wood, plush leather and dim lights on a hot date night. We like!

Tucked in the middle of Somerset Road, Bedrock Bar & Grill was named Singapore’s top restaurant in 2015 by Wine & Dine.

Image: facebook.com/BedrockBarAndGrill

The must-try F1 Tomahawk Steak serves up to three persons at 1.4kg (market price), while the double cut dry-aged Porterhouse feeds two (1kg at $180).

Complete your meal with a side of bedrock mac n’ cheese. Ooh. La. La.

Bedrock Bar & Grill
Address: 96 Somerset Road, #01-05 Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard, Singapore 238163
Tel: 6238 0054

5. Pepper Steakhouse & Bistro

When all else in life fails us, we need a no-frills, value-for-money diner we can fall back on.

Look no further than Pepper Steakhouse & Bistro! The Australian Tomahawk is available here with an 800g option at $98, that comes with crushed green peppercorn and feeds around two pax.

Image: peppersteak.com.sg

Light-eating duos can try the 500g Chateaubriand tenderloin fillet at $74 (each sharing option also comes with thick-cut fries, sautéed spinach and a sauce of your choice). Apart from the meats, Pepper also offers an affordable lunch special that comes with five main-course items (at $15-18 each) and a buffet for salads and soups!

Pepper Steakhouse & Bistro
Address: Great World City, #01-66/67, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, Singapore 237994
Tel: 6887 3229

6. Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse

Italian restaurants don’t just serve pasta and meatballs okay!

Bistecca Tuscan is one of the best fine-dining steakhouses in Singapore, using only organic-fed Australian F1 Wagyu for their steaks (with an impressive marbling score of 6+). Their Florentine-style cooking method produces steaks with juicy cores and charred crusts.

Image: facebook.com/BisteccaTuscanSteakhouse

Dig into a sumptuous 1.1kg Bistecca alla Fiorentina T-bone or Bistecca alla Costata ribeye ($188++ each) with one or two other friends. Don’t forget to take a wefie in the breezy al fresco area.

Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse
Address: 25 Mohamed Sultan Road, Singapore 238969
Tel: 6735 6739

7. Cocotte

Nestled on the ground floor of the quaint Wanderlust hotel along Jalan Besar is the snug French restaurant-bar Cocette.

They serve up family-esque rustic French cuisine inspired by homemade meals enjoyed by the entire kampong (or the French-countryside equivalent).

Image: facebook.com/restaurantcocotte

Order a Tasmanian grass-fed Prime rib Côte de Boeuf to share in a group ($18++ per 100g), or the Truffle Wagyu for one (250g at $69++).

Still got space? Top your meal off with a helping of mussels and clams (350-400g at $35).

Cocotte
Address: 2 Dickson Road, Singapore 209494
Tel: 6298 1188

Steaks come from different sources, in various cuts, and the taste varies based on individual cooking styles.

Depending on the number of people you are eating with (and how much you can eat) you should try out different types of steak, as they all have unique experiences to offer.

If the quantitiy is too much for you, it’s okay! You can always share with your friends! Bon appetite!

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