SINGAPORE - (THE NEW PAPER) Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay is a star in the food world and this has resulted in heightened expectations of his new restaurant Bread Street Kitchen, which serves British European fare.

But based on early reviews, its reputation is shinier than its food. I was able to confirm that when I turned up unannounced a week after it opened. I was impressed by the service, less so by what they served.

I shared my thoughts with my circle of trusted foodies and they responded with the same: It was not worth the money.

A month after it opened, I was invited back. The food was better but still not spectacular.

But that hasn't stopped Bread Street Kitchen from packing in the crowds. Good luck trying to get a table without reservations. Sometimes it's really just about the chef.

For me, the star dish is the slow-roasted Dingley Dell pork belly ($28), with a crispy and almost hard skin. It was delicious both times I tried it. What gives this dish its edge is the spiced apple puree.