Marmaris – Hidden Treasure in Little India

Marmaris is Authentic Arabic, Mediterranean and Western food in Singapore’s Little India. A quick google search will show that it is one of the highest rating restaurants around Little India. Since we were looking for something different, we decided to check out Marmaris.

Marmaris

When you arrived at the location, you will be greeted by two vertical rotisseries, commonly found in the Middle Eastern grilling the meat. In the middle, there will be the ingredients bench, which looks similar to the one in Subway store, where the staff assemble the shawarma, salads and other items on the menu.

Shawarma

For dine-in, you can go to the 2nd floor. It is air-conditioned and simply furnished with wooden tables and chairs. The lights and the walls are decorated with Middle Eastern lights and Middle Eastern motifs wallpapers. There is also al-fresco seating on the 1st floor.

Dining Area 2nd Floor

Decor and Lights

We started the meal with Hummus Salad Platter ($8) – Served with Arabic Bread, Veg Salad and Muhallal – Arabic Pickle. The hummus is smooth, creamy and packs with chickpea flavour. The Arabic bread is warm, soft and pillowy. We just can’t stop scooping the hummus with it. The salad on the side is simple yet refreshing. In no time, we polished off the platter.

Hummus Salad Platter

Falafel (1pcs, $1.50). From the look, we thought it was going to be hard and dry. Surprisingly, it is crispy externally, while it is moist and soft inside. Very good.

Falafel

Al Faham (Grilled Chicken, Signature, $15.50 half, $28 full). We ordered half, as we also ordered a rice dish. According to the menu, the chicken is slow-grilled with special herbs. It is served with Arabic bread, veg salad and garlic sauce.

Al Faham

The exterior of the chicken has a nice charred texture and flavour, followed by juicy and succulent flesh, including the breast part. Though the marinate of the chicken looks fiery red, it was not spicy at all. The chicken is very tasty and the garlic sauce just enhances the flavour of the chicken and herbs further. It is served with lovely Arabic bread as well.

Al Faham

Lamb Shank Briyani ($17.90, 1 pax). I just can’t say NO to a lamb shank briyani. Cooked in a claypot dum, the aroma just entices us when it was brought to our table. Of course, the bone sticking out just add the WOW factor to the dish. The rice is fluffy, sweet and tasty. The lamb shank is juicy and without any gamy flavour, however, it is a bit of a challenge ripping the meat off the bones. I think the lamb shank can be cooked longer, before mixing it with the briyani. My best experience with lamb shank briyani is when the meat reaches the point of fork tender and falls off the bone. I’ll probably order the mutton briyani next time.

Lamb Shank Briyani

Lamb Shank Briyani

Lamb Shank Briyani

We end our meal with Kunafe ($12) - A traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with cheese and thin noodle-like pastry soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup topped with crushed nuts. I like the crispy texture of the Kunafe, combine with the sweet and savoury flavour in it. The sugar-based syrup is served separately. Though the syrup looks milky, I find it too watery and does not blend well with Kunafe. Instead of pouring the syrup into the pastry, it is better to dip the pastry into the syrup.

Kunafe

We had Mango Lassi ($4.50) and Fresh Lime Soda ($4.50) to accompany our meal. The bottled water is already on the table, so if you open it just let them know when you make the payment on the 1st floor.

Drinks

CBK verdict: it was a great Arabic Middle Eastern food. Very tasty, flavourful and pocket friendly. The winners of the night are the Hummus, the chicken & the garlic sauce. We’ll definitely come back to try the Shawarma and the rest of the dishes. Cheers!!

Food & Drink: 8/10

Value: 9/10

Service: 6/10

Ambiance: 6/10

Budget per Person: $11 - $25; $26 - $50.

Marmaris

111 Dunlop Street

Singapore 209430

T: +65 6291 3001

W: https://www.marmaris.sg/

F: https://www.facebook.com/marmaris.sg

IG: @Marmaris.sg

OH: Daily 11.30 – 22.00

Swaadhisht – Our First Kerala Cuisine

We chanced into Swaadhisht as LD is having a craving for Appam. Located in Chander Street Little India, it was a nightmare trying to find street parking here. Luckily, Hilton Garden Inn is just opposite the restaurant, so we decided to park there.

Swaadhisht

While I am doing some prep to write the review, I learned that Swaadhisht is the first restaurant in Singapore serving authentic Kerala cuisine. It has grown over the years to become a refuge for Malayalees (the ethnic people from Kerala) craving a taste of home. The food here is prepared without any artificial colouring or preservative. The name Swaadhisht is derived from the Sanskrit word for tasty.

Swaadhisht Dum Briyani, Mutton ($16). We choose our dum briyani to be cooked in bamboo. Unlike the Malay version of bamboo rice, the bamboo used here looks like a musical instrument and the briyani here is based on Malabar Style. This means the rice is infused with the flavour of spices, dry fruits and ghee. Saffron and other colours are not used here, except for the green colour from the mutton seasoning.

Swaadhisht Mutton Dum Briyani - Cooked in Bamboo

The rice is light, fluffy, infused with the sweet onion and ghee aroma. The mutton is lean, yet tender but packs a spicy punch to it. Surprisingly, the clean taste of the rice makes me unable to resist scooping it into my mouth. Yummy!

Mutton Dum Briyani

Mutton Dum Briyani. (Pradhaman - Top Right)

Palak Paneer ($10.90). LD favourite dish. The spinach puree is thick, while the cottage cheese is not salty. I find the version here as it feels very healthy and easy to pair with the briyani.

Palak Paneer

Varutharacha Chicken Curry ($11.50). The Kerala version of chicken curry. Unlike the usual Indian chicken curry, this version uses coconut paste. It has a similar flavour as our Nanyang chicken curry; however, it does not have the lemak taste and texture as no coconut milk is used. Although the curry tastes nice, the chicken is a bit tough for my liking.

Varutharacha Chicken Curry

Varutharacha Chicken Curry

Appam ($2). This is what we are here for. It has a crispy edge, followed by a soft, pillowy centre. The fermentation is strong in the pillowy part. I ate my appam a few different ways. Original, dipped in Varutharacha Chicken Curry and also with Pradhaman (easy payasam – kheer / pudding). I find dipping in the Pradhaman is the best, feels like a dessert as the dip tasted like gula Melaka sago, though a bit mushier.

Appam

Appam

The décor of the restaurant is not very ‘updated’. The furniture seems to be there for a long time, at the same time, it seems to give the place some long-lasting credibility. Service is friendly, though communication can be a bit difficult. The ordering process is very simple, just scan the QR code on the table and place your order there. You only need to make payment after you finish your meal.

CBK Verdict: We love it. Our first-time trying Kerala cuisine and we are already planning for our next visit here. Next time around, we will bring our briyani lovers’ friends and other makan kakis as well to try the rest of the dishes. Cheers!!

Food & Drink: 8/10

Value: 8/10

Service: 6.25/10

Ambiance: 6/10

Budget per Person: $11 - $25; $26 - $50

Swaadhisht

47 Chander Road

Singapore 219546

T: +65 6392 0513

W: https://www.swaadhisht.com/

F: https://www.facebook.com/Swaadhisht

IG: @Swaadhisht

OH: Daily 11.00 – 23.00

Salaam Bombay – Delicious and Excellent Value Indian Meal

Egg Biryani

We were introduced to this place by M&A, our friends living in the South of Singapore. Located in Fusionfolis, the restaurant name of Salaam Bombay (“SB”) means salutation to Bombay, the historic name of Mumbai, a melting pot of Indian cuisine. In addition to North and South Indian Cuisine, SB also serves the quintessential Bombay Street Food (Chaats, Pav Bhaji’s, Vada Pav’s and the Unique “Bombay Chinese”). 

Our starter is Papadum with Mint Sauce. This starter is complimentary from the restaurant. Light and crispy lentil crackers served with a refreshing mint sauce that will entice your appetite. 

Papadum with Mint Sauce

Fish Tikka ($18.90) boneless cubed fish marinated with yoghurt and Indian spices and bbq in tandoor. The flesh used for this dish, normally come from a bigger fish that have a firm texture. The fish is moist and juicy. Though the texture is good, we find the seasoning was too heavy, making the dish salty. 

Fish Tikka

Fish Tikka

Mutton Bhuna Gosht ($18.90). The Indian version of mutton rendang. The mutton is fork-tender filled with the multi-layer taste of spices. The hint of sweetness from the onion and garlic is just delicious. 

Mutton Bhuna Gosht 

Butter Chicken ($16.90). This is probably the most common dish that we order in any Indian Restaurant. It is creamy, buttery, sweet and tangy gravy together with succulent chicken thigh is just irresistible. The version at SB hits all the right spots and a definite must-order here. 

Butter Chicken

Palak Paneer ($16.90). A second dish that we likely to order in any Indian restaurant. Creamy blended spinach, mixed with feta cheese and blend with spices. This dish will not win the prettiest dishes, however, the subtle texture of the blended spinach with the spices and savoury flavour of feta cheese is just comforting. 

Palak Paneer

Egg Biryani ($14.90). Instead of the usual chicken or mutton biryani, we ordered egg biryani. This biryani served with hard-boiled eggs and without any gravy in it. The basmati rice is al-dente, infused with saffron and different spices. I like the version at SB because it is very well balanced and the cardamon flavour does not sticks out. It is easily mixed with the butter chicken, mutton bhuna gosht and palak paneer. 

Egg Biryani

Aloo Gobi ($13.90). Classic Indian dish made of spiced potato and cauliflower. We specially ordered this dish without the cauliflower, so our version is just potatoes. Creamy, soft, yet with a distinct potato crunchiness in it. 

Aloo Gobi

Garlic Naan ($5 for 2). Fluffy with subtle garlic flavour. For those that really like their garlic, you might want to ask them to whack extra garlic into the naan. 

Garlic Naan

Dessert, Gulab Jamun (Complimentary). Fried milk balls soaked with saffron flavoured sugar syrup. Think of it as donut soaks in maple syrup. Those who like their desserts extra sweet, this dish is perfect for you. 

Gulab Jamun

The restaurant setting is casual, modern and filled with lots of natural lights due to the tall windows. Service is friendly and efficient. This restaurant is also value for money, if you make your reservation from Eatigo (or you can call the restaurant directly), you can expect 50% discount on the ala carte menu especially during the off-peak time on the weekday and all day on the weekends for dine-in and takeaway. 

CBK verdict a must try Indian restaurant in the South of Singapore. The food is delicious and with the 50% promo it is just value for money. Cheers!! 

Food & Drinks: 7.5/10 

Value: 9/10 

Service: 6.5/10 

Ambiance: 7.25/10 

Budget per Person: $11 - $25 

Salaam Bombay 

86 Robertson's Quay

#01-04, Robertson Blue

Bar Bar Black Sheep

Singapore 238245 

T: +65 9111 6995

W: https://www.salaambombay.sg/

F: https://www.facebook.com/SalaamBombaySingapore

IG: @Salaambombaysingapore 

OH: Daily 11.30 – 21.30 

Previous Location:

1 Fusionopolis Place 

#02-03. Galaxis. 

Singapore 138522 

AWADH – Authentic Lucknow Cuisine [MEDIA INVITE]

Zaffrani Malai Phirni or Rose Phirni

AWADH is the first and only Indian restaurant in Singapore and South East Asia that serve authentic Lucknow cuisine. Their Master chefs belong to the famous Qureshi family of Master-chefs from Lucknow, trained to create the culinary spread fit for the Nawabs (Emperors). 

AWADH

AWADH gastronomic creations use more than 120 spices, all of which worth their weight in gold. The chefs trained on the ancient secret recipes and “temper” the dishes with aromatic herbs, spices, flavoured ghee and saffron. Located centrally in Orchard Road, AWADH is easily accessible from all parts of Singapore. 

Spices use in AWADH

While waiting for our feast to start, we whet our appetite with homemade lassi and pappadam. 

Homemade Lassi

Pappadam

Murg-Multani Shorba ($14), AWADH signature chicken soup officially kicks start our tasting session. Tasted like robust chicken soup with a touch of curry. The peppery heat at the end warms up your throat and tummy in preparation for the upcoming feast. 

Murg-Multani Shorba

Murg-Multani Shorba

Tandori Macchi ($22) is a chargrilled boneless piece of fish gently marinated in tandoori spices and thickened yoghurt. The fish is well marinated, firm and hold its shape nicely. When you bit into it, the texture is moist. It is a bit salty, so you might want to dip it with the tomato bell pepper chutney to balance the saltiness. 

Tandori Macchi

Tandori Macchi - The Fish

Gosht Galawat Kebab ($27). A staple in Awadhi cuisine, melt-in-your-mouth mutton patties with a blend of over 25 rare spices complemented with Mughlai paratha & yoghurt mint chutney. The patty is moist, soft and packed with a lot of spices. However, the strong and bold flavours in the kebab might not be suitable for everyone. 

Gosht Galawat Kebab

Kurkuri Okra ($16). A delicious crispy ladyfinger. I must confess that Okra and Me do not get along, However, as the okra is deep-fried, I gave it a try. It is crispy, lightly seasoned with spices while removing the sliminess in the middle part. Yum Yum. 

Kurkuri Okra

Tandoori Lehsuni Jhinga (Special Order Only). Garlic marinated prawns chargrilled in the tandoor oven served with a mint sauce. Crunchy tiger prawn, nicely seasoned with a nice smoky aroma. The mint sauce on the side enhances the flavour of the prawn beautifully. 

Tandoori Lehsuni Jhinga

Reshmi Broccoli ($19). AWADH version of baked creamy broccoli. A combination of creamy and crunchy that is easy on the palate. 

Reshmi Broccoli

Bhatt Ka Murgh ($24). Pan-seared bone-in marinated chicken served on a hot plate. This dish is sizzling when it arrived on the table. The chicken is fork-tender and nicely marinated meat easily fall off the bone. One of the best dishes of the day. 

Bhatt Ka Murgh 

As we have completed the starters, we are ready to move on to the Main Course. Yup, the dishes above were only starters. Frankly, we were about 70% full and we were re-arranging the space in our tummy. The main course in Indian cuisine are the dishes that paired with rice, naan, paratha and roti. 

Our Staters - Flatlay

Bhuna Gosht ($27). Mutton cooked with fried onions and tomato paste and a blend of aromatic spices. A fork-tender mutton dish with thick and creamy gravy. The spices almost covered all the gaminess of the mutton, making it acceptable to most diners. 

Bhuna Gosht

Murgh Makhni Jehangiri ($23). Popularly known as butter chicken; succulent pieces of chicken in a mildly spiced creamy tomato gravy. Tender and succulent chicken pieces, cooked in a rich buttery and tangy gravy. 

Murgh Makhni Jehangiri 

Lehsuni Motiya Saag Paneer ($20). Seasonal green vegetables with a choice of corn or cubes of cottage cheese. LD and my favourite greens in an Indian restaurant. This time it was served with corn (cottage cheese version also available). The seasonal green vegetables are smooth and creamy, followed with a crunchy burst of sweetness from the corn kernels instead of the usual savoury cottage cheese. Our first time trying this, and it is just yummy. 

Lehsuni Motiya Saag Paneer

Sultani Dal ($19) A combination of yellow and red lentils tempered with cumin and green chillies, best complemented with crisped buttered tandoori roti. It is light and tasty, works well to balance the rich naan. 

Sultani Dal

Some of the Main Courses

AWADH Murgh Biryani ($25). Biryani fit for the Royals. Boneless pieces of chicken, marinated in a blend over 40 spices, layered with basmati rice and slow-cooked “dum” style for 6 hours. 

AWADH Murgh Biryani 

The result is amazingly fragrant basmati rice with fork-tender chicken pieces and explosions of flavour in each bite. I like the texture of each grain of the rice remain al-dente and not mushy. 

The main meal also served with Plain Naan ($6), Garlic Naan ($7), Ulte Tawe Ka Paratha ($8) and Rumali Roti ($8). While we are familiar with naan, Ulte Tawe Ka Paratha, the signature Lucknawi paratha is a something you should try here. It is tasty and it has that extra chewy texture. 

Naan, Paratha & Roti with the Mains

Main Course

Meanwhile, the Rumali Roti is light, paper-thin and fluffy at the same time. Perfect to soak up those delicious gravy. 

Finally, we reach the finish line with desserts. Apple Jalebi ($12). AWADH unique take on the common jalebi dessert, granny-smith green apple slices covered in a spiced batter and steeped in sweet syrup. A combination of crispy and crunchy texture. The sourness from the apple reduces the sweetness from the sweet syrup. 

Apple Jalebi

We also have a shot of Zaffrani Malai Phirni or Rose Phirni. Phirni is a rich and creamy Mughal milk pudding. Zaffrani is cardamom flavour, while Rose Phirni is flavoured with rose essence. LD enjoyed the Rose Phirni, however, my taste bud does not agree with cardamon flavoured phirni. 

Zaffrani Malai Phirni or Rose Phirni

AWADH at Centrepoint Singapore is decorated in a combination of Indian and Persian flair. The tables are covered with black table cloth with the chairs are red. The bar and live band area are the main attractions in the restaurant, but during this covid-19 period, there will be no live band. 

The Bar

Overall, we are delighted to have tried the food at AWADH. Although the dishes look familiar, you can taste the difference of the unique multi-layer flavour from extra spices used in each of the dishes. Definitely worth to try. Cheers!! 

Live Band Area

Thank you very much Kris for inviting us and AWADH Team for hosting us. 

Food & Drinks: 8.25/10 

Value: 7/10 

Service: N/A (Tasting Invitation) 

Ambiance: 7.75/10 

Budget per Person: $26 - $50; $51 - $80 

AWADH 

Royal Indian Dining and Lounge 

176 Orchard Road 

#01-33H, The Centrepoint 

Singapore 238843 

T: +65 9385 5337 / 6909 9971 

W: https://theawadh.com/

F: https://www.facebook.com/awadhdining/

IG: @Awadhdining 

OH: Daily 11.00 – 23.30

Full Menu available online