Araya: A Culinary Journey Through South American Fusion (Singapore Michelin Star Honoree 2024)

Araya, a groundbreaking dining experience that brings the vibrant essence of South American cuisine to life, is set to captivate food enthusiasts with its innovative approach to fusion cooking. Co-founded by the distinguished Chef Francisco and his talented partner, Pastry Chef Fernanda Guerrero, Araya is redefining gastronomic excellence with its unique blend of tradition and creativity.

A Culinary Odyssey Led by Visionaries

Chef Francisco, aged 40, boasts an illustrious career marked by prestigious roles across the globe. His culinary journey began at Alma in Santiago, followed by pivotal experiences at Andoni Luis Aduriz’s Mugaritz in Spain. His expertise further flourished during his tenure as Head Chef and Creative Director at Borago in Santiago. A return to Spain in 2008 saw him join the legendary El Bulli, an experience that honed his culinary artistry. In 2012, Chef Francisco ventured to Tokyo to open 81 Restaurant, a remarkable eight-seat venue that earned its first Michelin star in 2013, with Chef Francisco being just 29 years old.

Joining Chef Francisco at Araya is his partner in both work and life, Pastry Chef Fernanda Guerrero, 36. Known for her remarkable skill in crafting unique breads and pastries, Chef Fernanda has left her mark on renowned establishments such as Alegre, which was named Best Restaurant in Chile (2013-2014), and NAPA Wine Bar & Kitchen in Shanghai, recognized as one of the city’s best by Tatler in 2017. Her roots trace back to her family’s restaurant in Chile, where she first honed her craft.

A Fusion of Cultures and Traditions

South American cuisine is a rich tapestry woven from centuries of diverse influences, including Spanish, Arabic, and Japanese. This cultural melting pot has fostered a culinary heritage celebrated globally.

At Araya, diners are invited to embark on a gastronomic adventure with three distinct menu options. The Costa (S$368++) offers an eight-course degustation celebrating the bounty of the South Pacific ocean, while the Andes (S$298++) focuses on land-based delights. For those who prefer plant-based cuisine, the Vegetarian (S$298++) menu highlights the versatility of the region’s flora. On weekends, guests can enjoy an Araya-style almuerzo (S$168), a tribute to the convivial family lunches of South America, featuring hearty and flavorful mains.

An Immersive Dining Experience

Upon entering Araya, guests are greeted by a striking 12-seat rose quartz counter that anchors the main dining room. Designed by Australian interior designer Emma Maxwell, the space features natural Chilean materials like Alamo timber and dramatic ombre walls inspired by the sunrises and sunsets over Chile’s varied landscapes. The intimate setting allows diners a front-row view of the chefs in action, fostering a deeper connection with the food and its creators.

For a more private experience, Araya offers a stunning private dining room. Adorned with a breathtaking mural of the Andes, this room boasts a solid quartzite stone table and a delicate porcelain light fixture resembling drifting clouds. Rich blue velvet curtains and a rustic terracotta wool rug, handmade with natural dyes, complete the elegant space.

Araya is not merely a restaurant; it is a celebration of South American culinary heritage infused with modern innovation. With its dedication to showcasing the vibrant flavors of the region and offering a memorable dining experience, Araya invites guests to explore and savor a world of gastronomic excellence.

The post Araya, Singapore appeared first on Online Travel Agent.

Embark on an immersive journey to Japan, even if only for a brief visit, as Chef Suzuki invites guests to experience Suzuki. Every detail, from architecture and interior design to service and ingredients, has been meticulously curated to deliver an authentic dining experience characterized by uncompromising quality, all at a surprisingly accessible price point.

Designed by the acclaimed Tokyo-based architect Kengo Kuma, Suzuki showcases elegance and sophistication with a subtle nod to its delicate sushi offerings.

The floor-to-ceiling glass facade, adorned in an intricate Kyoto bamboo pattern resembling a wave, sets the stage for a serene dining ambiance. Guests enter through a stone-lined passage into a warmly lit space with a teak floor and a monumental 600kg Gifu stone reception desk.

Central to Suzuki’s allure is its L-shaped open kitchen, where diners gather around a counter bench hewn from a single plank of rare 150-year-old hinoki wood sourced from Nagano. This exceptional timber enhances the sushi experience with its subtle woodsy notes, perfectly complementing the flavors of fresh fish. Above, a floating bamboo platform creates an illusion of a tranquil Japanese forest glen, drawing the eye towards the serene nakaniwa garden.

Behind the kitchen lies a discreet glass-walled private dining room adorned with bamboo motifs and a half scrim of washi paper, allowing glimpses into the adjacent rock garden. Every detail at Suzuki is bespoke or handmade, from the intricately embroidered cloth napkins by Kyoto-based calligrapher Tomoko Kawao to the handmade washi paper adorning the kitchen.

Chef Suzuki, renowned for his tenure at esteemed establishments like Kikunoi in Kyoto, curates a menu that celebrates seasonal Japanese flavors with precision and finesse. Highlights include kinki fish and Hokkaido uni, Kyushu tuna, and silverbelt from Osaka’s waters. Seasonal delights such as sea bream in spring, hamo in summer, notogoro in autumn, and buri in winter promise an unforgettable culinary journey.

At Suzuki, each moment is meticulously orchestrated, from the selection of premium ingredients flown in from Japan weekly to the impeccable plating and the unfolding of pristine flavors. This dedication, overseen by Chef Suzuki and complemented by the traditional kimono-clad staff ensures an unparalleled dining experience.

The post Suzuki Omakase appeared first on Online Travel Agent.

Experience Award-Winning Pizza Craftsmanship

Chef Ciro Sorrentino, renowned for his exceptional pizza-making skills and recent accolades including the prestigious “Two Slice” award from Gambero Rosso International, brings his culinary mastery to Singapore with IL Clay. Located in Clarke Quay, IL Clay seamlessly transforms from a cozy pizzeria by day to a vibrant supper club by night, offering a dynamic dining experience at the heart of Singapore’s social scene.

A Journey Rooted in Tradition and Innovation

Hailing from Naples, the pizza capital of the world, Chef Ciro’s pizzas at IL Clay are a testament to his Italian-Mediterranean roots. Each pizza is crafted in the traditional Neapolitan style but infused with Chef Ciro’s contemporary twist, ensuring a moist, fluffy, and airy crust. Using a meticulous 48-hour proofing dough process and top-quality Italian ingredients, Chef Ciro creates pizzas that are both authentic and innovative.

Signature Dish: Regina Margherí Pizza

A highlight of the menu is the Regina Margherí pizza, Chef Ciro’s homage to the classic Neapolitan pizza. Featuring a San Marzano tomato sauce base, buffalo cheese, pacchetelle tomatoes from Vesuvius, pesto sauce, oregano, basil, and extra virgin olive oil, this pizza encapsulates the essence of traditional Italian flavors elevated to gourmet heights.

Experience the IL Clay Supper Club

In the evenings, IL Clay transforms into a nostalgic supper club reminiscent of the glamorous 1930s and 40s in the United States. Patrons can indulge in early evening cocktails, followed by a speakeasy bar experience late into the night, complete with live entertainment and a vibrant social atmosphere.

An Inviting Ambiance for Every Occasion

With seating options including a chic indoor area for 52 guests, a breezy outdoor alfresco for 20, and an intimate pizza corner for 8, IL Clay caters to various dining preferences and occasions. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a lively gathering with friends, or a memorable night out, IL Clay promises a culinary journey that celebrates the art of Italian cuisine and the spirit of ‘saper vivere’—the Italian way of life.

Discover IL Clay

IL Clay invites you to savor the award-winning flavors of Chef Ciro Sorrentino’s pizzas right here in Singapore. Immerse yourself in an evening of culinary excellence, vibrant ambiance, and unforgettable moments at Clarke Quay’s newest dining destination. Experience the best of Italy’s culinary heritage at IL Clay, where every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and the pursuit of perfection.

The post IL Clay Supper Club appeared first on Online Travel Agent.

From the bustling streets of Milano to the sun-kissed shores of Calabria, Chef Marco’s culinary prowess is steeped in the rich traditions of Sicilian and Calabrian cuisine. Every dish at Guccio Ristorante is a testament to his passion for authenticity and a deep-seated commitment to elevating Italian fine dining to new heights.

At the heart of Chef Marco’s philosophy lies a profound respect for ingredients. Each dish celebrates the essence of its core component, meticulously prepared to highlight its natural flavors and textures. This approach has earned Chef Marco the prestigious Bib Gourmand accolade from the Michelin Guide for two consecutive years, underscoring his mastery and innovation in the kitchen.

Step into Guccio Ristorante and you’re greeted not only by elegant décor that whispers of Italian sophistication but also by a warm ambiance that feels like a homecoming. Here, guests are treated to an immersive dining experience where every detail, from the carefully curated wine list featuring Italy’s finest labels to the seasonal exploration of regional delicacies, reflects Chef Marco’s unwavering dedication to culinary excellence.

Beyond offering exceptional cuisine, Guccio Ristorante invites diners on a sensory voyage across Italy’s diverse landscapes and flavors. With each season, Chef Marco unveils a new chapter of his culinary story, showcasing the bounty of Italy’s fertile lands and pristine seas in dishes that evoke nostalgia and ignite the palate.

Discover Guccio Ristorante, where Chef Marco Guccio’s passion for Italian gastronomy comes to life, promising an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates tradition, innovation, and the timeless allure of Italian cuisine.

The post Guccio Ristorante appeared first on Online Travel Agent.

Dark, sultry, and infused with hints of Conrad’s maritime tales, Set of Six combines elegance with a touch of whimsy. From monkey light fixtures to rustic furnishings reminiscent of the 1880s, the bar evokes a sense of intrigue and adventure. A hidden private dining room, accessible through a tiny apothecary shop, adds to the bar’s mystique, offering Champagne at the touch of a button.

Chef Gonzalo Landin lends his expertise to the meticulously curated food menu, which complements the bar’s sophisticated ambiance. Drawing inspiration from global flavors, standout dishes include Lobster Ravioli, Cured Spanish Mackerel, Triple-Cooked Chips, and Sea Bass Ceviche. Chef Landin, also the mastermind behind the cocktail program, crafts each drink to tell a tale of courage and splendor, such as The Mutiny—a rum-forward concoction spiked with apricot, absinthe, and pineapple.

Set of Six promises a new dimension in Singapore’s nightlife, blending culinary excellence with a narrative-driven cocktail experience. Whether for a romantic evening or a lively gathering with friends, this bar invites guests to embark on a journey of flavors and stories, echoing the adventurous spirit of Joseph Conrad himself.

The post Set Of Six appeared first on Online Travel Agent.

Formerly of Burnt Ends, Buck helms the communal dining experience at Le Bon Funk alongside Head Sommelier Jos Kjer, who curates the natural wine selection.

Rejecting the stereotype of stuffy wine bars, Le Bon Funk introduces a concept of ‘fine casual’ to Singapore’s dining scene, blending exceptional boutique wines with meticulously crafted plates in a convivial setting. The name itself, Le Bon Funk, playfully challenges the notion that all natural wines are funky, encouraging guests to embrace a light-hearted approach and see the glass as half full.

At the heart of Le Bon Funk is an intuitive dining experience, where daily-changing wines by the glass reflect the venue’s energy and climate. Unlike traditional tasting menus, Le Bon Funk offers personalized dining experiences tailored to guests’ appetites and adventurous spirit. The wine list spans from familiar to unconventional, sourced primarily from France, Austria, and Australia, focusing on minimal intervention and suitability for Singapore’s tropical climate. Kjer’s deep respect for winemaking craftsmanship ensures each bottle is hand-picked to complement Buck’s ingredient-driven cuisine, which transcends geographical boundaries and celebrates fresh, seasonal produce.

Buck’s culinary philosophy, aptly termed ‘Chef on a Plate’, draws inspiration from his Canadian roots and diverse culinary influences. His menu at Le Bon Funk evolves with the seasons, echoing his upbringing on an organic farm and his dedication to natural techniques like fermentation and charcuterie. Signature dishes such as the naturally leavened sourdough bread and the Cedar Jelly and Foie Gras Toast reflect Buck’s mastery of technique and bold flavor combinations, honoring his heritage while surprising diners with unexpected twists.

Designed by Foreign Policy, the space at Le Bon Funk juxtaposes refined textures like brass and terrazzo with raw yet sophisticated elements such as corkwood and rattan. This design ethos mirrors the restaurant’s spirit—an elegant departure from tradition that exudes warmth and character, inviting guests to savor a truly distinctive dining experience.

The post Le Bon Funk appeared first on Online Travel Agent.

您计划前往上海，了解了一个难忘假期要做的事情︰ 这是一个鼓舞人心的行程，哪儿您巡游黄浦江、 欣赏豫园美丽的景色和鉴赏上海博物馆文物。 您迫不及待地去品尝上海的美食，想着那汁多味美的小笼包以及肉质细嫩的清蒸大闸蟹。嗯……别急，您好像是忘了什么东西……

对了！如果您真的想要你的旅行非常完美，您知道酒店会让这个世界不同。当然，可能有各种各样的酒店可以选择，但是您知道所选的酒店应该是物有所值。您需要一个绝对令人愉快的酒店，上海外滩英迪格酒店就是您正确的选择。

正对黄浦江前，上海外滩英迪格酒店是一家高档酒店，是东西方文化的交汇点，那里有见证历史的新老收藏品。在从酒店出来，通过探索旧城区的魅力和活力，您可以选择让自己沉浸在上海丰富的历史和文化之中，或从16铺码头乘坐五分钟渡轮，去探索国际化浦东大都会的金融中心。如果不是这样，您总是可以沿江边漫步， 欣赏外滩的壮丽辉煌; 也许会与当地人见面聊天，体验一个不同的生活方式。

因此，丝毫不过分地说，上海外滩英迪格酒店的便利性是您最为关注的优势。但您必须了解的更多！在上海外滩英迪格酒店可以观赏到壮观且历史悠久的外滩壮丽景色，伴随南外滩附近的美景，您会被著名的浦东天际线所迷住。

但您肯定没想到，上海外滩英迪格酒店是唯一提供从酒店房间观赏这些外景的酒店，这是不是它的特别之处呢？您是绝对正确的！酒店提供的不仅仅是美丽如画的户外活动，也欢迎您参观诱人的怪诞且真实的家具，其中一个房间到另一个房间变化令人赞叹不已。特制的丝印墙纸，标志性的灰色上海石库门砖，中国灯笼，和许多奇异的古时配饰，会让您的东方梦想成为现实。

现在您可以放心，上海英迪格酒店会让您一饱眼福，从您的酒店房间俯瞰城市的全景和鉴赏优美的室内设计和家具。但您是一个聪明的旅行者-您知道真正重要的事情是什么…… 肯定是有关的房间设施的配备。上海英迪格酒店是一个温馨的港湾，每间客房都有特别的配制和奇异的精细装饰。所有客房都有固定式带有DVD的平面电视，Bose音响系统，熨斗和熨衣板，笔记本电脑保存箱，由藏族玫瑰根制成的巴颜喀拉洗护用品，完整并带有本地高档品的迷你酒吧，免费传统的茶道服务，来自云南精心挑选的咖啡，家庭式烘烤食品，是的，最重要的是提供免费 wifi 上网。

也许您想要更多-您想要工作，娱乐和享受美食。好吧，欢迎来QUAY“江畔”休闲空间！Quay是邀请聚会之地，里面有专属工作站、会议室、娱乐厅并提供免费茶点。

您可以随意放松身心，结交朋友，开展休闲商务会议或在Quay用餐。凭借其意想不到的色彩及款式的组合，您会情不自禁地赞不绝口，每个独立的空间都会展现出独特的气氛，让您找到休闲，社交或工作的温馨之处。

如果您喜欢强身健体，FIT是酒店的健身房和游泳区，这里的特点是从三个方向可以欣赏到外滩，上海的老城区和浦东的天际线壮观美景。

身居绝佳的地理的位置，美丽的景色尽收眼底，奇特的室内装饰和丰富的酒店设施，您知道上海外滩英迪格酒店是为您服务的卓越精品酒店。而您深信-一个完美的上海之旅正在等着您。

The post 英迪格酒店, 上海 (简体中文) appeared first on Online Travel Agent.

The MEAT, a contemporary steakhouse and specialty grill. The Steakhouse is located on the 4th floor of the prestigious Shanghai mall. Located in the new business district of Lujiazui, The MEAT assures you that there are countless steaks out there that are both pocket-friendly and still absolutely delicious and can satisfy your cravings. A good steak is like your best friend – always there for you when you are down, never failing to cheer you up, and brings you so much happiness.

The MEAT gives you an enchanting view with seating for 112 people, including The Master’s Table, a private dining room accommodating 14. Private dining is available on the terrace with a view of Shanghai’s famous Oriental Pearl Tower.It is excited to be the only restaurant to provide guests with convenient online access to real-time wait time data, helping them put their name on the waitlist to get seated faster. New Click Thru Seating access is poised to help guests manage their valuable time.

Anytime is a good time for steaks, but THE MEAT steakhouse that we prefer to reserve for dates with the discerning loved ones. And this is why this Valentine’s Day, there is nowhere better than romancing your date with an unforgettably lavish dinner at THE MEAT. After all, you need a reliable outlet where the service is impeccable and professional, and THE MEAT is ideal with its mix of elegance and chic factor. Nothing quite like celebrating the love in the air with a gorgeous dish like this. Every bite is pleasure to remember. The restaurant itself is elegant and stunning. It is classy, yet not pretentious; it gives off a cool and hip vibe effortlessly. Whether it is a sumptuous Chinese new year dinner with your family, a gathering with friends, or a romantic date with your partner – dining at The MEAT always makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or hosting a business luncheon or dinner, we can help you flawlessly pull off any private dining event. Our event planning staff has extensive experience and the ideal materials to work with—a capital setting, distinctive food and unmatched service.

The MEAT was born from the very idea that a steakhouse should revolve around the meat served. Solidly backing up this idea is the restaurant’s menu, with the largest selection of fine steak and beef available in Shanghai displayed in a dedicated meat “Ageing Room”, presided over by the restaurant’s house butcher.Join us for an evening of relaxed elegance and exceptional cuisine. Our impressive menu of nationally renowned dry aged steaks and the freshest of seafood will ignite your culinary imagination as our award-winning wine list of more than 5,000 bottles awakens your inner sommelier.Natural flavours abide at The MEAT. Simple presentation and preparation of quality Australian Angus beef sourced direct from farm to table define The MEAT’s dining experience. A must-try is the “Ningaloo Tomahawk”, a 1.8 kilogram hunk of prime rib good for four persons, brought table-side and expertly carved, its juicy chunks served right in front of diners by the chef. Along with an extensive selection of New and Old World wines, The MEAT also offers a wide variety premium grilled items: fresh seafood, organic poultry and vegetables, pork and lamb, accompanied by signature side dishes and sauces, as well as “gourmet comfort food”. Let’s just say, macaroni and cheese will never be the same again.

Diners at The MEAT are greeted by the theatrically lit “Ageing Room” window dominating the restaurant entrance .You will be Loved by the modern decor and lighting, the see-through kitchen and the bar in the middle of the restaurant.Whilst waiting for their dinner companions, guests may relax with a drink on pony hair and leather armchairs near a fireplace flanked by hand-carved wooden bullhorns. There is no second chance for the first impression – this saying is also true for the first visit to our steakhouse. Interior design concepts give our premises a unique character.Our goal: a welcoming, unmistakable ambience that emphasises the identity of your establishment. The MEAT was designed with a furnishing concept tailored to meet customer’s individual gastronomic needs and your available space.A scarlet-hued vertebrae-inspired light fixture stretches down the expanse of the restaurant and makes a dramatic visual centrepiece to the restaurant and counterpoint to the gleaming tops of The BREW’s glass encased brewery vats below. Traditional brewery elements and modern technology were combined classically with sophisticated lightness.

With the great popularity of The MEAT Steak House in Shanghai, we opened a second one in the Beijing. The earliest franchisees were friends or customers, and they were kept close control, spending time at each new restaurant to make sure it was operating up to Shanghai branch standards. The franchised restaurants using this equipment as well, and basically following the same menu. Though there were local variations, the overriding theme of the restaurants was good steak. Each franchised restaurant buy its meat from her Shanghai supplier, to keep quality consistent across the chain.

The post The Meat, Shanghai appeared first on Online Travel Agent.