MASA is a new concept by Black Society, a Chinese restaurant at VivoCity. MASA, is a Hong Kong Cantonese and Taiwanese slang for the word Master. The word is very often used to describe a big corporate investor or master of the underworld triads – Black Society ( 黑社会).
Black Society at VivoCity specialises in contemporary and innovative dim sum and regional Chinese cuisine. The sister restaurant, MASA is a younger and trendier version of Black Society, focusing on artisanal dim sum, elevating your dining experience to an extraordinary and fun one. The menu also offers modern Western pastas and bento sets to cater to those whose palates veer towards Western cuisine. THe first MASA was launched at Orchard Gateway a month ago while the second outlet at Great World City opened its doors about two weeks ago.
MASA has a pretty garden setting with monochrome tiles, bird cages, hanging vines and flowers from the ceiling, making one feel relaxed instantly.
The Dim Sum Platter (S$16.80) is exquisitely assembled with a delightful repertoire of dainty dim sum creations including Black Har Gao (Truffle Prawn Dumpling), Queen Shumai (Pork Dumpling topped with Prawn), Mala Shumai (Spicy Numbing Sichuan Dumpling), Swan Yam Pastry (Taro Paste enveloped in Crispy, Flaky Skin), Custard Lava Bun (Charcoal Bun with Egg Yolk Custard) and Little Green Apple (Steamed Bun with Apple and Lotus Paste). The Queen Shumai and Mala Shumai won my heart.
Those who love Chilli Crabs must try the Famous Chilli Crab Tart (S$6.80 for 2). The tart is baked to golden brown perfection and generously brims with chunks of Chilli Crabs. The sweet, slightly spicy sauce paired with the sweet succulence of the crabs brings delight to my taste buds.
One can never go wrong with the traditional Char Siew Bao (Steamed Bun with Barbecued Pork – S$5 .00 for 2) and MASA’s rendition is delectable with steamed white bun stuffed with sweet barbecued pork).
The Pan-fried Carrot Cake with XO Sauce (S$8.00) is one of my favourites. I like the umami taste with a ‘kick’. The beansprouts give the carrot cake a crunchy texture.
Noodle fans must go for the Jumbo Tiger Prawn with Rice Vermicelli (S$18.00). You can have a choice of either Tomato or Mala soup. I chose the Tomato soup which has a sweet, slightly tangy taste. Every mouthful is satisfying to the palate and comforting to the senses.
The One-bite Xiao Long Bao (S$5.50) is another popular favourite with steamed pork in a savoury broth enveloped in a thin, translucent, pleated skin. Every mouthful brings about a delicious explosion of tantalising flavours.
Overall, MASA by Black Society offers a lovely dining experience with unique creations. The menu is extensive so you will never run out of choices.
MASA by Black Society is located at the following:
#01-12/13/14 Orchard Gateway 277 Orchard Road Singapore 238858 Tel: +65 62437988
Opening Hours: Sun – Thur: 11 am to 10 pm Fri & Sat: 11 am to 10.30 pm
#01-121 Great World City 1 Kim Seng Promenade Singapore 237994
Tel: +65 6235 9787
Opening Hours: Sun – Thur: 11 am to 10 pm Fri & Sat: 11 am to 10.30 pm
For more information, please visit here.