It is a known fact that cherry blossoms (sakura) usually bloom in March and the first two weeks of April. Since we can’t travel, here are some F&B outlets that allow you to enjoy Sakura in a way or two.
Singaporeans love our afternoon tea. From now to 11 April2021, you can enjoy Sakura Afternoon Tea experience at The Grand Lobby, Raffles Hotel. Besides getting beautiful pink sweets such as Sakura Panna Cotta, crisp Sakura Ice Cream Monaka, and Sakura StrawberryÉclair, there are some savoury items such as the Beef Sando Katsu Bechamel which my dining partner, Adrian, raved about. The Sakura Afternoon Tea is priced at $88++ per guest and you get a tea or coffee of your choice.
Besides having real sakura flowers to accompany you for your Sakura Afternoon Tea at Conrad, you can also opt for unlimited Ronnefeldt Tea, Brazilian Coffee, House Wines and Sparkling Rosé at $59++ per person for or S$85++ per person with unlimited Ronnefeldt Tea, Brazilian Coffee, House Champagne, House Wines and Sparkling Rosé. This afternoon tea will be available at the Lobby Lounge and the Terrace is available until 2 May 2021
If you have missed Janice Wong’s Sakura Afternoon Tea, it is not too late to order the Spring Sakura Pastry Box which is available until 25 April 2021. Priced at $55, the box consists of items such as the Strawberry Basque Cheesecake, almond tart made with strawberry ganache, rice pudding and caramel mousse as well as the Sakura-shaped Strawberry Yogurt Bon Bons. To order, you can hop over to Janice Wong’s website
BreadTalk is also bringing Japan to you with 9 blossoming flowers treats. One of my fav item is the Strawberry Light Cheesecake ($12.80) which is a Japanese-style soufflé cheesecake with a moist, cotton- soft texture, dressed in pink sakura flowers. These limited-time products are available at all BreadTalk outlets island-wide and online from now till 18 April 2021.
From now to 31 May 2021, Kuriya Japanese Market will be carrying a selection of new sushi items as well as specially imported Japanese Sakura snacks and desserts. Sakura Monaka, Sakura Daifuku Mochi, Sakura Komachi Wafer, Sakura Yogurt Pudding, Sakura White Ebi Cracker…etc just to name a few. Best of all, some of the items can be as affordable as $2. You can find out more online.
IPPUDO Mandarin Gallery has also transformed into an Instagrammable mini Japan decorated with sakura flowers around the resturant. Besides a yummy plum wine based cocktail, Ohanami Sakura Cocktail, at $7 per glass, you can also enjoy Ohanami Sakura Umegaemochi ($6 per set), a traditional Japanese rice cake with sweet Azuki bean filling dessert. Oh yes, not forgetting it is paired with a pot of hot Sakura Green Tea. You can also stand a chance to win $50 IPPUDO cash voucher by snapping a picture and post on instagram. More deets are up on instagram.
Roku Gin has also collaborated with Taki Izakaya Bar and launched a special menu. There are a total of three specially created cocktails to go with 3 different dishes. This special menu is only available till 15 May. I would highly recommend one to book the table with booth seating and a sakura tree in front of you. For table reservation, you can email to info@takibarsg.com or call +65 6223 0797.
Crossroads at Marriott Tang Plaza has also launched 7 Sakura cocktails with Roku Gin that are available till 30 April at $10.80++ each. Quite a steal for a glass of cocktail. Among the 3 that I have tried, my personal favourite is the Roku Peach & Jasmine Cooler which is perfect for the recent sweltering weather.
If you fancy some Sakura themed dinner as well as cocktails with a fantastic view of Marina Bay Sand, the rooftop bar at Vue is your best answer. In the month of April, Vue is offering a 4-course dinner menu ($158++) with Roku Gin based cocktails ($20 to $22). To make your table reservation Whatsapp to 8879 0923 or email dining@vue.com.sg.
For those who are hosting or attending home party, you can also get the bottled Sakura Martini cocktail that are handcrafted by bartenders from Jigger & Pony. Currently, Pony has launched 7 different cocktails to suit different cocktail drinkers. If you like something floral with a slight savoury note, Sakura Martini is for you. You can now get them for your party by either self-collection at Jigger & Pony, Gibson, Humpback or Live Twice. Alternatively, you can order online
If you are looking for some gifting ideas, homegrown bistro, The Marmalade Pantry, has launched a Touch of Spring with Sandara Chardonnay Sparkling Wine & Cupcakes Gift Set ($112+), and A Touch of Spring with De Bortoli Emeri Pink Moscato & Cupcakes Gift Set ($126+). The beautiful Sakura silkscreened bottle of sparkling Valencia Chardonnay white wine with Ozeki Sake base is definitely presentable enough to surprise your partner, house warming, or just to bright a person up. To order, you can go online.
