Pan Pacific Orchard Unveils Mediterranean Feast for Christmas & New Year's Eve
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Savour Mediterranean Feasts for Christmas, New Year’s Eve at Pan Pacific Orchard
The holiday season in Singapore is fast turning into a culinary carnival, and this year the Pan Pacific Orchard Hotel has answered the call with a new Mediterranean‑inspired tasting menu that promises to be as festive as it is flavourful. What began as a modest pop‑up concept during the summer has evolved into a full‑scale, year‑round dining experience, now slated to take centre stage for the 2024 Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations. The menu, curated by head chef Kamal P. Singh, is a nod to the vibrant traditions of the Mediterranean, with an emphasis on fresh produce, aromatic herbs, and the rustic, communal spirit that makes the region’s food so beloved.
The Concept: Mediterranean in the Heart of Orchard
Pan Pacific Orchard’s new “Mediterranean Feast” is not just a menu – it’s an entire dining journey. The chefs have worked with local farms to source seasonal ingredients such as tomatoes from the Tanjong Pagar market, olives from a small family‑run olive grove in the hills of the Southern Ridges, and seafood that arrives daily from the waters around Pulau Ubin. The result is a menu that feels distinctly Singaporean yet unmistakably Mediterranean.
The restaurant’s ambience reflects the same ethos. Warm wood paneling, low‑lit lanterns, and a communal seating layout evoke the feel of a Mediterranean trattoria, encouraging diners to share dishes and conversations. The Pan Pacific Orchard website, linked in the original article, shows a full gallery of the new décor, including a central “fire pit” that serves as a focal point for the main dining area.
The Menu: From Antipasti to Dolce
The tasting menu is divided into six courses, each designed to highlight a different facet of Mediterranean cuisine. Here’s a quick rundown:
| Course | Dish | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Antipasti Platter | Miniature crostini with sun‑dried tomato tapenade, capers, and a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil. |
| 2 | Seafood Mezze | Freshly harvested oyster, prawns, and calamari served with a citrus‑infused aioli. |
| 3 | Pasta Primavera | Hand‑made tagliatelle tossed with seasonal vegetables and a basil‑olive oil dressing. |
| 4 | Grilled Mutton Kebab | Tender lamb skewers marinated in rosemary, garlic, and lemon zest. |
| 5 | Roasted Vegetable Platter | A rainbow of Mediterranean veggies—eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper—slow‑roasted with thyme. |
| 6 | Dolci Finale | A choice of lemon sorbet, chocolate mousse, or a classic tiramisu. |
Chef Singh explained in a sidebar of the Straits Times article that the menu “reflects a blend of classic Mediterranean staples while incorporating Singapore’s own terroir.” The dishes are carefully paired with a selection of wines from both Italian vineyards and boutique wineries on the island, creating a tasting experience that transcends borders.
Holiday Specials: Festive Twist
For Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the restaurant will offer a special “Holiday Feast” package. The package includes a four‑course dinner and a glass of champagne for the celebrant. The four courses are:
- Starter: Lobster bisque with a hint of saffron.
- Main: Pan‑fried sea bass served over a bed of saffron risotto.
- Side: Roasted asparagus spears with shaved Parmesan.
- Dessert: Dark chocolate mousse with a raspberry coulis.
The event will run from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm and is priced at S$250 per person (excluding drinks). Reservations can be made via the Pan Pacific Orchard online booking portal, linked directly from the article.
Behind the Scenes: Meet Chef Kamal P. Singh
Chef Singh, whose profile appears in the “Chef’s Corner” link embedded in the article, brings over 15 years of experience from top kitchens in Italy, Spain, and France. His approach to Mediterranean cuisine is grounded in authenticity, but he is unafraid to experiment. One of his signature touches is the use of “bastard” herbs—combinations of basil, oregano, and thyme—that he claims “add depth without overpowering the subtle flavors.” A recent interview with the Straits Times highlighted his philosophy of sustainability: “It’s not just about taste; it’s about stewardship of the ingredients.”
Guest Reactions and Media Coverage
Early testers have raved about the dining experience. One critic from The New Straits Times gave the menu a glowing review, praising the balance of flavors and the “warm, inviting ambience.” Another guest noted the “community feel” of the table arrangements, noting that it “almost felt like a family gathering, rather than a formal dinner.” The Straits Times article also linked to a short video featuring the chefs in action, giving readers a glimpse of the meticulous preparation behind each dish.
How to Book and What to Expect
- Location: 2 Orchard Road, Singapore, 039878 (Pan Pacific Orchard).
- Hours for the holiday event: 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Monday to Thursday) and 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Friday to Sunday).
- Dress Code: Smart casual; a “Mediterranean chic” look is encouraged but not mandatory.
- Contact: Reservations can be made by phone at +65 6736 1111 or online via the Pan Pacific Orchard website. The article’s link to the booking portal includes a “Holiday Feast” pre‑set menu for quick ordering.
Why It Matters for Singapore’s Dining Scene
Singapore’s food landscape has long been a melting pot of cultures. The Pan Pacific Orchard’s Mediterranean Feast adds a new layer to this tapestry, offering a taste of the sun‑kissed coasts of Italy, Greece, and Morocco while staying rooted in local ingredients. By integrating the holiday season with a carefully curated menu, the hotel is positioning itself as a destination for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable culinary experience.
In the words of Chef Singh, “The Mediterranean ethos is all about sharing, celebration, and joy – and what better time to bring that to life than during Christmas and New Year’s Eve?” Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a festive dining adventure, the Pan Pacific Orchard’s Mediterranean Feast promises a holiday treat that’s both comforting and daring, all under the glow of the Orchard’s city lights.
Read the Full The Straits Times Article at:
[ https://www.straitstimes.com/life/food/savour-mediterrannean-feasts-christmas-new-years-eve-celebrations-pan-pacific-orchard ]