Spain Gastro @ FOC Restaurant, Keong Saik Road, Singapore

¡Chin chin! | Spain Gastro

An evening of Spanish gastronomy at FOC Restaurant on Keong Saik Road, and definitely one for the food diary. With a menu that took us from cold and hot snacks to tapas, paellas and desserts, there was plenty to eat, share and enjoy throughout the evening.

We started with the Iberico Jamon on Toasted Bread with Tomatoes,

a classic combination and the perfect way to ease into the meal.

This was followed by Smoked Cantabrico Anchovies on Charcoal Brioche with Salted Caramel Butter, an interesting play of savoury and sweet flavours.

Sea Urchin, King Crab & Tarragon Butter on Toast

Foie Gras Terrine & Ahrenka Caviar in Crispy Phylli

Next came the more indulgent bites. The Sea Urchin, King Crab & Tarragon Butter on Toast brought together two of my favourite seafood ingredients in one bite, while the Foie Gras Terrine & Ahrenka Caviar in Crispy Phylli rounded off the cold snacks on a suitably luxurious note.

Iberico Ham Croquetas with Manchego Cream Sauce

Porcini Mushroom Croquetas with Black Truffle Sauce 

Moving on to the hot snacks, we had not one but two types of croquetas. The Iberico Ham Croquetas with Manchego Cream Sauce were rich and comforting, while the Porcini Mushroom Croquetas with Black Truffle Sauce delivered those deep, earthy flavours of mushroom and truffle.

Patatas Bravas - One of my favourites of the evening!

And of course, it would not be a Spanish feast without FOC Patatas Bravas,

served with garlic aioli and spicy bravas sauce.

Padron Peppers with Togarashi & Maldon Salt 

Then came the tapas. The Padron Peppers with Togarashi & Maldon Salt were simple yet addictive, before we moved on to something heartier with the Spanish Charcoal-Grilled Octopus with Pork Jowl & Cabbage Trinxat.

Spanish Charcoal-Grilled Octopus with Pork Jowl & Cabbage Trinxat

This was one of the showstoppers of the evening. I loved the combination of the smoky, charcoal-grilled octopus with the richness of the pork jowl, balanced by the cabbage trinxat. There was so much going on in one plate, yet everything worked beautifully together. Definitely the dish that left the strongest impression on me, and one I would happily come back for!

The King Prawns Al Ajillo with Spicy White Bean Emulsion followed, 

another seafood dish packed with bold flavours.

Boston Lobster Paella with Salmorreta

Sanchoku Wagyu & Mushrooms Paella 

And finally, the part of the evening I had been looking forward to: paella!

We had two very different versions to share. The Sanchoku Wagyu & Mushrooms Paella was rich and hearty, combining beef and mushrooms in a comforting paella, while the Boston Lobster Paella with Salmorreta brought us the oceanic goodness with lobster taking centre stage.

Dessert - Basque Cheesecake Tartlet

Dessert - FOC Lemon Pie 

After that entire spread, naturally there was still room for dessert. We ended the evening with three sweets: the Basque Cheesecake Tartlet, the refreshing FOC Lemon Pie, and the Spanish Torrija with Mascarpone Foam to complete our Spanish feast.

Spanish Torrija with Mascarpone Foam

The Spanish Torrija with Mascarpone Foam was an absolute winner for me. The torrija had this incredibly soft, pillowy texture that I loved so much, complemented beautifully by the smooth mascarpone foam. Rich and comforting yet still delicate enough for the end of such a big meal, this was the dessert I kept going back for. So, so good!

Thank you, Chef for hosting us! 

From jamon and anchovies to croquetas, octopus, prawns, paella and desserts, this was truly a table full of Spanish flavours. A lovely evening of sharing plates, good food, wine and great company at FOC.

FOC Restaurant

32 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089139

+65 6206 5810

Website: focrestaurant.com

*NEW MENU* Tapas Club Spanish Restaurant & Lounge @ Pavilion KL

Hey, are you up for some tapas and sangria? ❤

I have long heard about Tapas Club Malaysia, which has been taking the center stage of Spanish food scene in town since its grand opening exactly 1 year ago at the Dining Loft, Level 7 of Pavilion KL, but this is my first time indulging into the authentic Spanish delights at this swanky restaurant cum bar.

Being a specialist in tapas, paella and desserts, Tapas Club has been constantly creating new, innovative dishes so diners can enjoy myriad of flavours from time to time. Just couple of weeks before its anniversary, Tapas Club has rolled out a brand-new menu featuring 17 new dishes of which we get to try some today.

Tapas Club not only aims for the best quality (from careful selection of ingredients to interesting combination of flavours) food, but it also does not compromise on every detail of the restaurant setting.

Look at the beautiful wine display, how can you miss such lovely picture-worthy spot?

[Bestseller] Garlic Prawns @ RM25.00

We begin our gastronomical journey here with some best-selling and new tapa dishes. Like many concur, the pan-fried garlic prawn served in olive oil tops our list of favourites, all thanks to its rich seafood goodness coming from the prawn stock.

[Bestseller] Spanish Omelette with Truffle Aioli @ RM25.00

Not a fan of seafood? Try another crowd pleaser - Spanish-style confit potato pancake with caramelised onion and eggs. It has a very nice chunky texture on the mouth while the truffle aioli heightens the overall taste and aroma of the dish.

[*NEW*] Txistorra and Quail Egg on Toast @ RM25.00

One of the new creations that interests me is the pan-fried txistorra sausage and quail egg served on toasted bread (4 pieces per platter). - so incredibly cute and it reminds me of "mini American breakfast". I like how the cured sausage is bursting with incredibly rich flavours of spices too.

[*NEW*] Pork Cheek with Spanish Puquillo Pepper @ RM25.00

Those who prefer more subtle flavours should try the sous vide pork cheek. Although mildly spiced, it is well-complemented with incredibly creamy mash that enhances the overall flavours altogether.

[*NEW*] Garlic Chicken @ RM25.00

[Bestseller] Chicken and Seafood Paella @ RM68.00

As much as we enjoy our tapas, we also have a great time digging into the vibrant and unpretentious pan of signature paella studded with seafood. Personally, I prefer the squid ink paella for that added depth of flavours from the umami-rich squid ink.

[Bestseller] Squid Ink Paella with Clams @ RM68.00

[Bestseller] Tapas Club Cheesecake @ RM28.00

Apart from tapas and paella, I am equally impressed by Tapas Club's homemade desserts. Our visit to Tapas Club wouldn't be complete without digging into the luscious deconstructed cheesecake which is beautifully composed of cream cheese, caramelised crumbs and berries compote. 

Thanks to its creamy, smooth and melt-in-the-mouth texture, it definitely wins the hearts of cheese lovers like myself.

[Bestseller] Churros with Chocolate Sauce @ RM28.00

Of course, being the home of authentic Spanish cuisine, you just can't go wrong with the Spanish No.1 traditional dessert - churros served with chocolate dip. The version served here is slightly crunchier and denser than usual, but nevertheless tastes superb when dipped with the lightly sweet chocolate sauce.

Verdict:

1. Tapas Club is a great place for dine and wine by both the day and night. Highly recommended for special occasions, celebrations or private functions too.

2. Overall, Tapas Club has far exceeded our expectations in almost all aspects, be it the quality of food, ambiance or service. If I were to have any complaints at all, it would be the overall taste of food leaning towards the heavier (stronger) side. But no worries, pairing them with some boozes will help balance out the flavours.

3. Recommended: Garlic Prawn, Squid Ink Paella, Tapas Club Cheesecake

Tapas Club Malaysia
Lot 7.01.01, Level 7 @ Dining Loft,
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur,
168, Jalan Bukit Bintang,
55100 Kuala Lumpur.
Contact: +603-2110 2718
Website: woodpeckers.asia/tapas
Facebook: fb.com/tapasclubmsia
Instagram: @tapasclubmsia 

Pintxos, Tapas & CONNOR'S Stout Porter at Tiki Taka, Medan Damansara

Tiki Taka is definitely the latest bar in town that you should check out for

the great pintxos, tapas and perfectly poured CONNOR'S Stout Porter. 

Tucked at the corner of Medan Damansara's famous food row, Tiki Taka opened its doors since 20 June 2016 and has quickly gained popularity for the wide variety of pinxtos (Small snacks eaten in bars traditionally in northern Spain), tapas (Spanish appetizers), pizzas (Yummy!) and creatively-crafted desserts, all served under one roof. 

Whether to enjoy the evening at the cosy dining area, by the bar or al fresco, the experience is equally amazing so long as we have a hearty spread of pinxtos and tapas for sharing, as well as a pint or two of CONNOR'S Stout to keep our streams of conversation and laughter going. 

Latest on Tiki Taka's creative menu is the CONNOR's Stout-infused dishes, whipped up by the young and beautiful lass, Chef Carrie. The 3 special items can be ordered as a combo with 1 full pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter.

And a complete CONNOR’S Experience is made just right when I get chaffeured by GRAB car to the restaurant (using a discount code which I will share with you later!), tuck into the delicious spread of CONNOR’S-infused dishes accompanied by deliciously brewed CONNOR'S Stout Porter.

CONNOR'S Salted Egg Pork Burger @ RM36 with 1 full pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter

This pork burger features fresh salted egg custard sauce, crunchy battered pork loin, curry leaves and chilli padi  in between two mini CONNOR'S-infused buns. The buttery savour, salty sweet custard, spicy and fragrant kick all combines into a perfectly balanced sauce that works wonder in lifting up the overall taste.

The most unique part is, the buns get a delicious dose of CONNOR'S Stout Porter flavours! No, it's not charcoal bun, but CONNOR'S Stout Porter bun! How interesting it is. The result? More airy and soft pillowy buns, with distinctive malty flavour. 

Just sink your teeth into the burger, and enjoy the spicy savoury goodness!

CONNOR'S Sriracha Chicken Pizza @ RM36 with 1 full pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter

Another remarkable dish with an Asian twist is the mini chicken pizza topped with crunchy kyuri, bell pepper, coriander, shallots, pulled chicken and generous drizzle of house-made Sriracha BBQ sauce. The pizza base is neither the crisp thin nor thick filling type; the thickness is just nice so that everyone would love it. 

The best part of it is definitely the sweet spicy Sriracha BBQ sauce which is heavily infused with CONNOR'S Stout Porter. Great to taste the slight tanginess from the stout porter, without being overpowered by the spiciness.

CONNOR'S Bacon Vanilla Caramel Sundae @ RM34 with 1 full pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter

I heard that the Nutella Bacon here is excellent, but the CONNOR'S Bacon Vanilla Caramel Sundae is something more indulgent, definitely worth a try at Tiki Taka.

Smoked bacon stick sitting in the luscious concoction of espresso and vanilla ice cream, topped with Madagascan vanilla pods, strawberries and popcorns, and a generous drizzle of CONNOR'S-infused vanilla caramel sauce, this is a winning taste on its own.

Scoop the different layers with a small spoon and enjoy the myriad of bursting flavours at one go,

your palate will surely be sealed with surprises!

Full Pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter

Don't forget to pair the burger, pizza and dessert with this: A perfect full pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter with a creamy top and perfect dome. I reckon this is the best in KL due to the unique 3-part pouring technique here. First to pour till 3/4 full, second to settle, third to top it off with little bubbles just above the rim.

Lastly, enjoy the CONNOR'S while it is "fresh". You'd love the creamy foam head, smooth and balanced taste. 

Overall, it is "A Night Made Right" with CONNOR'S Stout Porter, when unique dishes come hand in hand with great pints of stout porter. Tiki Taka is a great place for a nightlong of games, food, drinks and casual fun for groups of friends.  

Free valet parking is available at the shopfront, but if you don't plan to drive, you can always book a GrabCar to and from the bar, and enjoy RM8 discount (max. 4 rides) on your GRAB ride by using his promo code: GRABCONNORS

    Promo Conditions:
    ○ Valid for both new/existing users
    ○ Valid for customers who pay via credit/debit card only
    ○ Valid for Budget Taxi or GrabCar (Economy)
    ○ Valid for ride to/from Tiki Taka

    ○ Each booking receipt will be entitled for one (1) FREE Half Pint of CONNOR’S Stout Porter

       (Just flash your booking receipt to enjoy this reward)

For more information, visit http://www.facebook.com/ConnorsMY

Tiki Taka
128, Jalan Kasah,
Medan Damansara,
50490 Kuala Lumpur. 
Contact: +6016-3287438
Facebook: fb.com/tikitakamy
Instagram: @tikitakamy

Business Hours:
Mon - Fri: 4pm - 1am (Kitchen closes at 11.30pm)
Sat - Sun: 9am - 1am (Kitchen closes at 11.30pm)
*All prices are subject to 5% service charge and 6% government tax.

Wine Tasting at La Bodega Tapas Bar, Bangsar Shopping Centre

Well, how do you define a good wine? It should start and end with a smile :) During the recent Marques de Murrieta, a Spanish wine tasting at La Bodega, I was overwhelmed with a good range of exquisite wine. 

Free flow of red and white wine during the evening.

Photo credits to Tim.

#1 Capellania Reserva 2008 (Rioja, Spain)

#2 Capellania Reserva 2009 (Rioja, Spain)

#3 Pazo de Barrantes Albarino 2012 ❤

#4 Marques de Murrieta, Rioja 2008

#5 Marques de Murrieta, Limited Edition Gran Reserva 2008

#6 Dalmau Reserva 2007 (Rioja, Spain) ❤

Pazo de Barrantes Albarino 2012

Generally I prefer white wine to the red ones, because it preserves a strong citrus, fruity and floral fragrances of grapefruits, pears and white flowers. Beyond the bright and well-defined nuances, in the mouth it reveals its elegant structure balanced by a smooth-as-silk acidity with a persistent and lengthy finish.

Best paired with all kinds of seafood especially white fishes, mussels and cockles.
Besides, it matches beautifully with soft cheeses and rice dishes too.

Dalmau Reserva 2007 (Rioja, Spain)

Among the vintages, this is my favourite. An exceptional Spanish wine that is elegant and long, so full of complexity. The intense, cherry red wine pronounces clean nasal aromas with a high intensity in which the powerful load of fruity notes are dominant. On the palate, it gives light bitter hints, reminiscent of fruity, smoky and toasted sensations.

 Paella Valenciana Mixta

The house serves a large pan of traditional Spanish rice cooked with prawns, chicken, mussels and clams. Wine connoisseurs and guests of the evening have a great time savouring this as if we are groups of families who congregate for a meal over a large pan of delicious paella.

Thank you La Bodega for the great wine dinner! ❤

Marques de Murrieta is available at all La Bodega outlets.

La Bodega Tapas Bar

G109, Ground Floor,
Bangsar Shopping Centre,
285, Jalan Maarof, 
Bukit Bandaraya,
59000 Kuala Lumpur.
Contact: 603-2287 2768
Website: www.gastrodome.com.my/labodega
More outlets at:
1. Pavilion KL
2. Empire Shopping Gallery
3. Telawi Bangsar