Ju Shin Jung Korean Restaurant

Some people might remember it for its former store at West Coast Road but not many will know that Ju Shin Jung Korean Restaurant is the first to bring authentic Korean charcoal BBQ to Singapore. Besides their staple of juicy meat cuts, the restaurant also offers a wide variety of Korean dishes like bibimbap, stew, porridge, and noodles, some of which are available for lunch. Its authentic and nostalgic Korean flavours are well-loved by locals and Korean expats, and especially for aspiring mukbangers, the 90-minute Unlimited BBQ starts at a mere S$38++ (adult) for lunch. 

Ju Shin Jung Korean Restaurant is located at 11 Unity St, #01-30/31, Singapore 237995 and 991B Alexandra Rd, #02-08/09 10/11, Singapore 119970. Please refer to the website for more details. 

GU:UM

Inspired by NAE:UM’s fifth episodic menu, Front Yard Barbecue, Chef Louis Han brings the conviviality of traditional Korean barbecue gatherings to Keong Saik Road with GU:UM. This is not your usual Korean BBQ spot. Experienced chefs fire up your meal at the open kitchen, instead of grilling them at your table, to ensure optimal flavours from prime cuts such as Tajima Wagyu Ribeye MBS8 (S$188++ per 280g) and Iberico Pluma (S$118++ per 300g). Choose between four housemade marinations like galbi, chilli gochujang, fermented fish sauce, or salt. Grilled meats may be the highlight but starters here are a league on its own. The Yukhwae Jeon (S$32++) is a moreish cross between Korean pancakes and beef tartare. While the KFC – Korean Fried Cauliflower (S$26++) is a mouth-watering twist on Korean fried chicken. Order a la carte or indulge in the sharing set menu (S$168++ per person) with all the signature items.

GU:UM is located at 29 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089136, p.+65 8831 6308. Open Tue -Thu 6pm -10.30pm, Fri – Sat 11.30 am–2.30 pm, 6–11 pm. Closed Sun and Mon.

Wang Dae Bak Korean BBQ

Fire up juicy charcoal-grilled meats at Wang Dae Bak Korean BBQ with delicious banchan and their signature Half Half Pancake – one side seafood, one side kimchi. Set menus for two start from S$52++ with a selection of succulent meats, while larger sets which come with a soup and the half half pancake run from S$148++ for 3-4 persons. And if you are craving more Korean street food, comfort food like ramyeon and rice cakes can be found on their a la carte menu. 

Wang Dae Bak Korean BBQ is located at 22 Cross Street, #01-64, Singapore 048421, p.+65 6225 2646. Open daily 11.30am -2.30pm, 5.30pm -10.30pm.

Ajoomma Korean BBQ

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ajoomma Korean Charcoal BBQ (@ajoommakoreancharcoalbbq)

KTV or BBQ? Sizzle up the night with the best of both worlds at Ajoomma Korean BBQ. Spanning all three floors of the shophouse near Club Street, the restaurant houses two private karaoke rooms on the third floor and boasts a display of live seafood on the first. Like the warm and dedicated “aunties” the restaurant is named after, you’ll enjoy carefully prepared Korean BBQ dishes and a range of top-quality meats and sauces. Warm your belly with the savoury Spicy Kimchi Soup with Tuna (S$20++) and a rich Truffle Steamed Egg (S$16++), while the staff grill up choice cuts such as US Prime Beef and Snow-aged Wagyu to your preference. If you like a little more crisp on your pork belly, go for the 2mm Pork Belly (S$28++ for 150gm), otherwise stick with the Pork Belly for more bite.. Or better still, just indulge in their unlimited KBBQ (90 minutes) promotion,  where you can feast away for just S$39.80++.

Ajoomma Korean BBQ is located at No 2 & 4 Gemmill Lane, Singapore 069247, p.+65 8789 8650. Open daily 11am -11pm.

Nami Korean Grill House

No crowd, free parking – if the thought of these light you up, then Nami Korean Grill House is the place to go. The sister concept to Hanjip Korean Grill House is nestled in the tranquillity of Greenwood Avenue and has Nami-island inspired interior to match that serenity. Popular with residents around there area, the restaurant is buzzing on weekday nights so, as long as you make your reservations, you’ll get to enjoy the range of premium chucks like Japanese Wagyu or USDA Prime. Standout Korean dishes include the Gyeranjjim (steamed egg), or the crowd-favourite Ginseng Chicken Soup, which are available in the set and as a la carte orders. Add the Raw Marinated Crab (S$88++) for an extra oomph. Can’t decide what to eat? Have some of everything with the Nami Signatures platter (S$198++), which comes with Wagyu Chuck Ribs, Kurobuta Pork Jowl, Pork Collar, and 200g of Korean Abalone. Hearty eaters can reach for the Nami Platter (S$188++) which is a whopping 650g of premium pork and beef!

Nami Korean Grill House is located at 18 Greenwood Ave, Singapore 289212, +65 8831 4180. Open 11.30am -2.30pm, 5pm -11pm.

Bulgogi Syo

Grilling is not just about fire. At Bulgogi Syo, grilling is a three-step theatrical  process of fire, flavour, and flair.. Known as the Sear, Torch, and Flambé technique, this method locks in the rich juiciness of premium meats. Prime cuts are first seared on custom Korean hot stones at 180 degrees, then torched with 1,400-degree Fire Blasters to deliver a smoky char, and finally flambéed tableside for a sensory feast. Their Mixed Combo (S$65++) features the LA Galbi, with Pork Collar and Chicken, alongside a choice of jjigae. And if you need some carbs, the Chef’s Choice Combo set (S$59++) comes with fried rice. For a spicy kick, we love the Spicy Baby Octopus (S$25.90++) and the Spicy Cheesy Chicken (S$20.90++) that’s served on a hotplate. Prepare yourselves (and your cameras) for a flavoursome and fiery showcase. 

Bulgogi Syo has four outlets around Singapore, please refer to their website for location details.

Bornga

If you want to know what won the heart (and belly) of Paik Jong-won in Culinary Class Wars, head to Bornga to find out. Founded by the celebrity chef and judge, the Korean restaurant is known for its signature Woo Samgyup—thinly sliced beef brisket and flank in a light marinade crafted by Chef Paik. Best eaten with a dip in their savoury soybean paste.  Don’t miss Chef Paik’s takes on classics like Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), Tteokgalbi (grilled short rib patties), accompanied by dolsot bibimbap (rice dish in a hot-stone pot) and japchae (stir-fried glass noodles and vegetables) each designed to showcase the rich flavours of Korea.  

Bornga is located at Vivo City, 1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-123 /124, Singapore 098585, p.+65 6376 8268. Open daily 11.30am -10pm.

Charim Korean BBQ

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by CHARIM KOREAN BBQ (@charimsg)

Along the stretch of Korean barbecue spots on Tanjong Pagar Road, Charim Korean BBQ is probably one of the few that remains open after lunch. The owner is a passionate foodie and Korean native who embarked on a journey to bring authentic Korean BBQ to Singapore. Must-try items include the King Beef Rib, Soy Chicken, and the Salted Pork Neck, which can be found in their set menus, which run from S$68++ (good for 2 persons). Here, you’ll savour the meats like the Koreans do – wrapped in fresh, crisp lettuce in a ssam. Alongside generous servings of banchan, and their DIY Sushi Rice that comes with wild leek and a specialty sauce, BBQ here is as fun as it’s flavourful.

Charim Korean BBQ is located at 65 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088486. Open Tue – Sat 11.30am -1am, Sun 11.30am -12am. Closed Mon.

Chang Korean Charcoal BBQ

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Chang Korean BBQ Restaurant (@changkoreanbbq)

Set in the black and white houses in Dempsey, Chang Korean Charcoal BBQ brings a touch of elegance to Korean BBQ. Smoke won’t get in your eyes here as they offer a choice of grilling in the kitchen before they serve you. Renowned for quality food and service, the restaurant offers premium cuts from around the world – beef from USA and Australia, Pork from UK and Spain, Chicken from Brazil, and Duck from France. Besides their generous servings of banchan, you might even find exclusive items like soy marinated crab in it. That’s because they also serve fresh seafood for the grill or for authentic Korean dishes like the Haemul Pa Jeon (S$25++), a spring onion pancake with prawns, clams, mussels, and squid. Soup are hearty and packed with ingredients here and you’ll get a wide selection of bibimbaps and noodles. Popular with Korean natives and locals alike.

Chang Korean Charcoal BBQ Restaurant is located at 71 Loewen Rd, #01-01, Singapore 248847, p.+65 6473 9005. Open Sun – Thu 12pm -3pm, 6pm -10pm, Fri – Sat 12pm -3pm, 6 – 10.30pm.

8 Korean BBQ

From wine to garlic, miso and red pepper paste, 8 Korean BBQ serves up pork belly in eight different flavours. Sample them all in the 8 Flavours Pork Belly Combo set which comes with a seafood soybean stew and kimchi fried rice. Meat lovers, you’ll go crazy with the all-you-can-eat combos. The A.Y.C.E. SUPREME beef and pork combo not only includes all eight flavours of pork belly, it also comes with seafood like shrimp and squid and a selection of beef cuts such as beef tongue, beef galbi bulgogi, short rib and more. 

8 Korean BBQ is located at Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd, #04 – 20 / 21, Singapore 228208 and  6 Eu Tong Sen St, #02-79/90 The Central, Singapore 059817. Please refer to the website for more details. 

Top Image: Ajoomma Korean BBQ

The post Best Korean BBQ Spots in Singapore for Authentic Grills & Smoky Goodness appeared first on City Nomads.

Dumpling Darlings

With their fresh take on contemporary Asian cuisine, Dumpling Darlings – run by the same team behind Lola’s Cafe – has all the dumplings you can ever dream of. From The Original (S$8) stuffed with pork and cabbage, to Spicy Sichuan (S$8) and the Korean Veggie Mandu (S$8), they even have a Dessert Dumpling (S$12) of amaretto, cream cheese, and poached pears. This casual, cosy spot also serves up homemade egg noodles with selections like XO Prawn Noodles (S$12.50) and the Miso Mushroom Noodles (S$8.50). Their cocktail and natural wine selection, although limited, is just as creative as their dumpling offerings. 

Dumpling Darlings is located at Amoy St, #44, Singapore 069870, p.+65 8223 9249 and 86 Circular Road, Singapore 049438, p.+65 8889 9973. 

Din Tai Fung

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Din Tai Fung Singapore (@dintaifungsg)

From selling tinned oil to receiving its first Michelin Star in Hong Kong, Din Tai Fung has become one of the top places to eat Xiao Long Baos (steamed pork soup dumplings) around the world. The (not so secret) secret lies in its paper-thin dumpling skin which is folded 18 times. You won’t go wrong with the Original Xiao Long Bao and its steamed chicken variation, and don’t miss crowd-favourites like the Truffle Pork Dumplings or the umami Crab Roe Dumplings. From time to time, they’ll even have seasonal flavours such as the Steamed Chilli Crab and Pork Xiao Long Bao for the nation’s birthday. Keep up with them to find out more.

Din Tai Fung is located at multiple locations around Singapore. Please refer to their website for location details.

Zhang Ji Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao

This popular Shanghainese dumpling store run by Nanjing natives expanded from Alexandra Village Food Centre – where it drew long daily queues – to running their restaurant in ARC early this year. Even with its humble beginnings, Zhang Ji Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao found its way to the Michelin Guide in 2023. What caught the attention of the Michelin inspectors were the Crispy Pan-Fried Dumplings (S$9.80) that were “filled to the brim and nicely browned on the bottom.” But what we love is the good old Steamed Mini Buns or Xiao Long Bao (S$6.80) for the pop of flavourful broth as we bite into it. 

Zhang Ji Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao is located at ARC, 460 Alexandra Rd, #02-23, Singapore 119963.

DaXi 大喜

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by DaXi 大喜 (@daxisg)

Asian fusion casual restaurant DaXi 大喜 serves up handmade dumplings in four flavours, ranging from Original Pork, Smoked Duck, Chives & Pork, and Green Sichuan Pepper (from S$10.80 for five pieces). Besides choosing the fillings, you’ll also choose how you want them cooked. Have it boiled or pan-fried, or immersed in a bowl of superior chicken broth – deliciously comforting. Try the Pork Dumpling with Egg (S$11.80 for five pieces) which sees juicy pan-fried dumplings on top of an egg or the Fragrant Mala Pork Dumpling (S$11.80 for five pieces) for a spicy kick. 

DaXi 大喜 is located at multiple locations around Singapore. Please refer to their socials for location details.

Jing Hua Xiao Chi

Calling themselves “Singapore’s Original Dumpling House,” Jing Hua Xiao Chi, established in 1989 was simply a way of making ends meet at that time. Their honest-to-goodness home-style cooking has won the hearts and bellies of locals and now they even have outlets in Japan and Italy! This says much about their dumplings which include the classic Xiao Long Bao (S$9) with paper-thin skin and the Pan-fried Mixed Seafood & Pork Dumplings (S$10), which resemble the Sicilian pastry Cannoli. 

Jing Hua Xiao Chi is located at 21/23 Neil Rd, Singapore 088814, p.+65 6221 3060. Open daily 11.30am –3pm, 5.30pm -9.30pm. 

Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao

Prepare to stand in queue for a taste of these delicious dumplings from Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao. Handmade daily, their dumplings feature a delicate crystal-like skin wrapped around tender minced meat with bursts of flavourful broth with each bite. While their classic Xiao Long Bao (S$7.50 for 10) and Pan-Fried Dumplings (S$7.50 for 10) stand as the all-time favourites, their Hong You Chao Shou (S$6.50) – drenched in vinegar and chilli oil – is also a must-try. They are also Michelin guide-approved!

Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao is located at 335 Smith St, #02-135, Singapore 050335. Open Wed – Sat 11.30 am–3 pm, 5–8.30 pm. Closed Mon & Tue.

JIA HE XING Dumpling Restaurant

Originally established in Beijing, JIA HE XING Dumpling Restaurant expanded internationally, opening its first overseas outlet in Singapore in 2020. Here or there, the restaurant is known for its made-to-order boiled dumplings and signature noodles. You can even catch a glimpse of the chefs at work from its glass-panelled kitchen. The classic Pork and Chives Dumpling (from S$6.30 for 6 pieces) is one of the crowd’s favourites, as are the Rainbow Dumplings (S$12 for 13 pieces) which are so fun to eat. They have umami bombs like the current number one, Shrimp Delicacies Dumpling (from S$8.80 for 6 pieces) and the Fish Roe Delicacies Dumpling (S$10 for 6 pieces). And for a fiery kick, there is always the Spicy Wonton (S$6.90 for 6 pieces drenched in vinegar and chilli oil.

JIA HE XING Dumpling Restaurant is located at 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square, #03-128 Singapore 039594, p. +65 8655 7158. Open Mon – Thu 11.30 am–9 pm, Fri – Sun 11 am–9.30 pm

A9 Noodle Dumpling

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SMU Gourmet Club (@smugourmetclub)

When it makes the top of the SMU students’ “must-eat” list, you know it’s something to take notice of. Tucked away on the second floor of Fortune Centre, A9 Noodle Dumpling serves up affordable noodles and dumplings that are S$0.26 a pop. This means you’ll get to chow down on 15 pieces of Chive Pork Dumplings or Cabbage Pork Dumplings for just S$4.  What the dumplings lack in size is made up for in numbers, so you’ll still satisfy those hunger pangs. Other popular items here include the Mala Savoury Noodles (S$5) and Spicy Savoury Noodles (S$5), which although doesn’t come with dumplings, are often sold out for the day. 

A9 Noodle Dumpling is located at 190 Middle Rd, #02-26 Fortune Centre, Singapore 188979, p+65 9667 1510. Open daily 11 am–3pm, 5–8.30pm.

All images courtesy of respective establishments. Top Image: Dumpling Darlings

The post Bite-Sized Delights: Where To Eat Dumplings In Singapore appeared first on City Nomads.

Not Your Usual Claypot Rice

While many are familiar with the concept of claypot rice, Kamameshi offers something beyond simply cooking rice in a pot. This cherished dish holds historical significance and embodies the resilience and community spirit that helped rebuild Japan after the Great Kanto Earthquake. The term “Kamameshi” translates to “kettle rice,” a nod to the time when people shared meals from iron pots (kama) after the disaster. The modern version we enjoy today takes inspiration from “Kamameshi Haru” in Asakusa, where the one-person kettle became popularised.

The iron pot dish is easy enough to make at home, but in the hands of experienced chefs like Chef Taro Takayama, it transforms into an exquisite delight, bursting with umami and the fresh flavours of the season. Lucky for us, a comforting pot of Kamameshi is easily within reach in Singapore at Hanare by Takayama. The restaurant even pays homage to Kamameshi every first Monday of the month on Kamameshi Day, offering 20% off all Kamameshi (a la carte/set, starting from September). 

The menu features premium selections like Unagi Kamameshi and Wagyu Kamameshi, as well as options such as Salmon and Ikura Kamameshi, Chicken Kamameshi, and Braised Pork Belly Kamameshi, all available for both lunch and dinner. For a true feast, indulge in the Dinner Set Menu for two, which includes some of the restaurant’s best dishes, such as a sashimi platter, snow crab chawanmushi, grilled proteins, a dessert and of course, the signature Kamameshi.

Crafting Excellence in an Iron Pot (Kama)

Embracing the Japanese culinary philosophy of Shun (旬), Kamameshi embraces our connection with nature by capturing the essence of regional specialties and using fresh, seasonal ingredients at their peak. Because of this, Kamameshi varies from region to region, with each locale utilising location-specific ingredients like fish, vegetables, or mushrooms. This dish showcases a region’s produce and culinary traditions, which is why locals take great pride in their unique variations. 

Similarly, Chef Taro Takayama takes immense pride in his version of Kamameshi at Hanare by Takayama. He uses koshihikari rice from Niigata, one of Japan’s premier rice-growing regions, known for its light and airy texture. The rice is cooked with a special blend of dashi stock, allowing it to soak up the essence of the house-made broth. Premium ingredients are then cooked over the rice using a generational Japanese technique, imparting a delicate umami that enhances the flavours of the dish. 

Chef’s Journey 

Chef Taro Takayama’s culinary journey began in his hometown of Wakayama, near Osaka, where his passion for food took root. Kamameshi is one of his favourite dishes as it embodies the warmth and comfort of communal dining while showcasing the time-honoured cooking technique of preparing rice in a kamado or donabe. Bringing his experiences from three-star Michelin restaurants in Osaka and the Japanese Ambassador’s residence in Singapore, Chef Takayama continues to hone his craft, making his signature Kamameshi accessible to everyone.

Mastering the Art with Chef’s Signature Techniques

To provide the best quality at an affordable price, Chef Taro Takayama meticulously crafts his special dashi, simmered for up to two hours, combining it with fresh ingredients such as freshwater eel from Kagoshima, salmon, Miyazaki wagyu, and more. Premium ingredients like awabi are slow-cooked in sake for four hours and drizzled with abalone liver sauce for an extra punch of umami. To top it off, he adds seasonal vegetables, presenting a delicious pot of Kamameshi bursting with flavours.

Besides ingredients, Chef Taro Takayama pays close attention to the cooking process, ensuring that the Kamameshi is slow-cooked over medium heat. His secret technique? Letting the pot steam for 10 minutes before opening the lid, so the rice becomes perfectly plump and flavourful.

Try it At Home

For home cooks eager to bring the magic of Kamameshi into their kitchens, Chef Taro Takayama offers these tips:

• Use high-quality dashi made from kelp and bonito flakes.
• Select fresh ingredients in order to get rich, authentic flavours.
• Slow-cook over medium heat for best results.
• Keep the lid on for about 10 minutes after cooking to achieve tasty, plump rice.

And if it’s Hanare by Takayama’s flavourful pot of goodness that you’re craving, don’t forget that Kamameshi Day takes place every first Monday of the month!

Hanare by Takayama is located at 391 Orchard Road, #03-07, Takashimaya Shopping Centre Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238872. Call +65 8298 9369 for reservations. Open daily from 11.30am – 10pm (last order at 9pm).

The post The Culinary Art of Kamameshi: Chef Taro Takayama’s Signature Techniques & Celebrating Kamameshi Day at Hanare appeared first on City Nomads.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

This Mid-Autumn Festival, Carlton Hotel Singapore invites you to savour the artistry of handcrafted mooncakes, meticulously created by the culinary experts at Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant and the Hotel’s pastry team. Indulge in a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation with their exquisite mooncake collection featuring new highlights like the Mini Hawthorn Cranberry Snowskin, a vibrant blend of sweet and tangy, and the Coconut Yam Snowskin, offering a tropical twist. The return of the crowd-favourite Mini Mao Shan Wang Snowskin Mooncake, filled with luscious durian, ensures a rich, bittersweet delight. For those who cherish the classics, the Red Lotus Paste with Double Yolk and the low-sugar White Lotus Paste mooncakes provide a timeless taste, while the signature Mixed Nuts offer a symphony of textures. The collection is elegantly presented in a multifunctional box inspired by Chinese mountain landscapes, perfect for repurposing as a jewellery box. Pre-order now, and enjoy early bird discounts, ensuring a festive celebration that combines culinary excellence with practical elegance.

Enjoy exclusive early bird discounts of 30% off for all mooncakes for orders between now and 31 August 2024. Get 25% off for 1 to 30 boxes or 30% off for 31 boxes and above for orders between 1 September to 17 September 2024.

Carlton Hotel Singapore’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order now til 8 September 2024, with pickups and deliveries from 2 August 2024 to 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$50 to S$92. Order here, contact the hotel at +65 6349 1292 or email restaurants@carltonhotel.sg. Delivery is priced from S$65 nett per location. Free delivery for orders of 60 boxes and above. 

Peach Blossoms, PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore

Peach Blossoms at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore is celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival with an enticing array of mooncakes, expertly crafted by Executive Chinese Chef Edward Chong. This year’s collection introduces two delightful new flavours: the Charcoal Peach Long Jing with Okinawa Brown Sugar Mochi, which marries the fruity essence of peach with the aromatic Long Jing tea, and the Mung Bean and Red Bean Symphony, inspired by the nostalgic flavours of kai zai paeng (a mooncake pastry with filling). For traditionalists, Peach Blossoms offers the classic Single Yolk with White Lotus Paste, known for its buttery caramel notes, and the indulgent Double Yolk with White Lotus Paste. The Delightful Four Collection provides a taste of all these exquisite flavours in a single elegant package. The mooncakes are also presented in two beautifully designed gift boxes, inspired by the peach blossom flower and traditional pavilions. The Celestial Lantern Box doubles as a bedside lamp with an LED lantern and vanity drawer, complete with $200 dining vouchers, while the Blossoms Pavilion Box transforms into a chic organiser for tea bags or stationery. These luxurious and versatile gift boxes add a contemporary touch to the festive tradition, making them perfect for both gifting and personal indulgence.

Enjoy exclusive early bird discounts of 25% off on Blossoms Pavilion Box for orders between now and 18 August 2024. Get 20% off for orders for selected credit card holders, between 19 August to 17 September 2024.

Peach Blossoms’ Mid-Autumn delights are now available, with pickups at the hotel on Level 1 and deliveries from now until 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$95 to S$208.80. Order here, contact the hotel at +65 6845 1118 or email promotions.prsmb@parkroyalcollection.com. Delivery is priced from S$50 nett per location. Free delivery for orders of 50 boxes and above. 

Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro, Hilton Singapore Orchard

Embrace the Zen spirit and the warmth of family reunions this Mid-Autumn Festival with MICHELIN – starred Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro. Their 2024 collection features thoughtfully crafted mooncakes that epitomise tranquillity, passion, and joy. Delicately prepared by their skillful culinary team and meant for gifting in mind, these mooncakes are a metaphorical gateway to a world of serenity and self-discovery, akin to a Japanese Zen garden. Signature treats include the Assorted Nuts with Jamón Ibérico mooncake, combining textures in every bite, and the classic Double Yolk with White Lotus Paste, offering a silky, timeless delight. For a health-conscious option, try the Macadamia Nuts and Low Sugar White Lotus Paste mooncake. Located at Hilton Singapore Orchard, celebrate this festive season with Shisen Hanten’s exquisite and mindful creations, bringing peace and joy to your Mid-Autumn celebrations.

Enjoy exclusive early bird discounts of 35% off all mooncakes for orders between now and 1 August 2024. Get 30% off all mooncakes for orders between 2 August to 3 September 2024, or 25% off all mooncakes for orders between 4 to 17 September 2024. Discounts only apply to DBS / POSB Bank, UOB Bank, Citibank Singapore, American Express (AMEX), and Maybank cardholders. 

Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for orders now with pickups and deliveries till 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$80 to S$90. Order here, contact the restaurant at +65 8901 3089 or email shisenhanten@ouerestaurants.com. Delivery prices vary, depending on location. 

The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore

With petite mooncakes housed in a Tiffany-blue box, Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore’s Mid-autumn collection makes for great gifting, especially when you can repurpose it into an elegant jewellery box. Mix and match to customise your set of eight mooncakes, with crowd favourites like Mao Shan Wang Durian and new flavours like Mocha Bailey. Baked selections include new flavours like Lava Custard and Black Sesame Paste with Egg Yolk. Take your gifting up a notch with the three-tiered gift set which comes with a Mist Valley tea set and a bottle of Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve champagne.

The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online from now till 17 September 2024, with options for self-collection or delivery from 5 August to 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$95 to S$198.  Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

Raffles Hotel Singapore

From the kitchen of Raffles’ master chefs come exquisitely crafted Mid-Autumn delights, including their signature Champagne Truffle Snow-Skin Mooncake with a white chocolate yolk encased in silky-smooth white lotus paste. Besides returning favourites, the snow skin selection sees three new flavours infused with spirits like rum, gin, and Guojiao 1573 Baijiu. Baked mooncakes include  beloved classics as well as the indulgent Mother-of-Pearl with Single Yolk and White Lotus Paste Mooncake, and the Pine Nuts with Macadamia Nuts and White Lotus Paste Mooncake for the health conscious.

Raffles Hotel Singapore’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online from now till 12 September 2024 or at The Raffles Hotel Singapore Mooncake Booth (North Bridge Road Atrium) from now till 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$97 to S$108. Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

Goodwood Park Hotel

Crafted in collaboration with master chefs from Hong Kong, Goodwood Park Hotel’s mooncakes are made without preservatives and are quite well worth the calories. Besides their all-time favourite Durian Combo boasting prized durian variants like the Phoenix, the new Golden Dragon, and of course, the Mao Shan Wang, this year’s selections include a refreshing Kumquat Melon with Macadamia Snowskin Mooncake. Among the baked delights, the White Lotus Seed & Red Bean Paste With Pork Floss & Single Yolk is a standout for its sweet and savoury flavours. All mooncakes come in a yellow box adorned with embroidered floral motifs for a mid-autumn grandeur.

Goodwood Park Hotel’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online from now till 17 September 2024 with options for self-collection or delivery between 10 August to 25 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$49 to S$120. Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza

From a Premium Gift Set with a bottle of Taittinger Brut Reserve Champagne (375ml) to best-selling traditional baked mooncakes, Marriott Singapore Tang Plaza takes things up a notch with five new flavours uniquely crafted to tingle your palate. Highlights include the Imperial “Long Jing” Tea with Pecan Nuts baked mooncake and the Sea Salt Walnut with Pistachio Matcha Praline snowskin mooncake. Durian lovers will love the Pure ‘Mao Shan Wang’ Premium Grade Durian Mooncakes which come with a generous filling of the creamy fruit. 

Marriott Singapore Tang Plaza’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online from now till 17 September 2024, with options for self-collection or delivery from 14 August to 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$90 to S$248. Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

Summer Palace, Conrad Singapore Orchard

Themed “Reunion in Bloom”, Summer Palace at Conrad Singapore Orchard returns with crowd-favourite classics like the Parma Ham and Pork Floss with Assorted Nuts baked mooncake, and the Mao Shan Wang Durian snowskin mooncakes. New highlights in the snow skin mooncakes, inspired by Chinese tea rituals and teatails (tea cocktails), include the Almond Chocolate with Pear Cognac, and the Red Date Tea with Aged Mandarin Peels. And the ultimate indulgence? The Bird’s Nest and Gold Leaf snow skin mooncake. All these goodies come in an elegant blooming floral box that doubles up as a nifty trinket case after the festival.

Summer Palace, Conrad Singapore Orchard’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online and from the Mooncake Booth at the Lobby from now till 17 September 2024, with options for self-collection or delivery until 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$56 to S$268. Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

Jiang-Nan Chun, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore

Immerse yourself in the elegance of Cantonese cuisine with mooncakes from Jiang-Nan Chun at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore. Along with timeless classics, new baked flavours include  Black Sesame with White Lotus and Assorted Nuts with X.O. Shrimp, inspired by their signature X.O Sauce. Don’t miss the healing Almond Bird’s Nest from the snow skin selection, or delight in the floral Osmanthus White Peach. The mooncakes come in a set of four baked or eight snowskin mooncakes presented in a two-tiered chest, which can be repurposed as a vanity box. Comes in chilli red or forest green colour.

Jiang-Nan Chun at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online from now till 17 September 2024, with options for self-collection or delivery from 28 July to 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$92 to S$108. Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

Golden Peony, Conrad Centennial Singapore

Beyond the classics, Golden Peony at Conrad Centennial Singapore is set to delight with new baked mooncake flavours such as the Black Sesame with Melon Seeds and the Traditional Baked with Premium South Jujube Dates mooncakes. Their snowskin sees a decadent Signature Royal Hazelnut Crunch, the tea-based Hojicha with Kinako Truffle, and the Ondeh Ondeh with Gula Melaka, as a homage to the beloved local dessert. Choose between a luxurious cream-coloured leatherette box or a limited-edition designer bag to encase your Mid-Autumn mooncakes. 

Golden Peony, Conrad Centennial Singapore’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online and from the Mooncake Booth at the Lobby from now till 17 September 2024, with options for self-collection or delivery until 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$92 to S$108. Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

Shangri-La Singapore

From timeless classics and plant-based options to creative collaborations and one for the kids, Shangri-La Singapore’s delightful assortment of mooncakes offers an unparalleled Mid-Autumn experience. Besides traditional favourites housed within elegant leatherette boxes,  there’s also a limited-edition Velvet Box, with Red Date Pumpkin Seed with Bird’s Nest Mooncakes, in an exclusive collaboration with Bynd Artisan. Spirited folks will love the neon green Origin Bar Mid-Autumn Gift Set, which draws inspiration from their latest INFINITY menu, featuring Mini Milk Lotus with Strawberry and Citrus, a mooncake-twist to the gin-based Eyes Scream Cocktail. Keep the little ones happy with the Kid’s Mooncake Building Set.

Shangri-La Singapore’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online and at the Mooncake Specialty Counter in the Tower Wing Lobby from 28 July to 17 September 2024, with options for self-collection or delivery from 1 August to 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$59 to S$156. Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

The St. Regis Singapore

The St. Regis Singapore brings an exquisite array of mooncakes through the artistry of Cantonese restaurant, Yan Ting. Among the new flavours, try the Pu’er Tea with Melon Seed Traditional Baked Mooncake, or delight in contemporary flavours like Red Dates & Walnut Paste Lychee Martini Truffle and Orange Paste Chamomile Citron Truffle in the snow skin mooncakes. Sets of four baked mooncakes or eight mini snow skin mooncakes will come in a pretty French Lavender box, or take it up a notch with the ultimate gifting set – the Rosewood Extravagant Dressing Box. Alongside four baked or eight mini snow skin mooncakes, the luxurious box even houses a collectable teapot set

The St. Regis Singapore’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online and on-site from now till 17 September 2024, with options for self-collection or delivery from 2 August to 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$65.80 to S$208. Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

YÀN Restaurant

Although  YÀN Restaurant’s classic handcrafted Layer Yam Mooncake is a must-have, their new 8-piece Mini Gin Chocolate Truffle Snow Skin Mooncake is also not to be missed. The snow skin mooncake filled with lotus chestnut paste hides a Roku gin-infused chocolate truffle surprise within. Reach for the Baked Red Bean Paste with Melon Seed Mooncake for a classic Cantonese-style mooncake, that’s also vegetarian-friendly or the crowd favourite Mao Shan Wang Durian Snow Skin Mooncake filled with luscious pulps of the King of fruits. The mooncakes, set of two or four, come in a pink satin drawstring bag that’s pretty enough to be reused. 

YÀN Restaurant’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online and in-store from now till 19 August 2024, with options for self-collection or delivery from 19 August to 17 September 2024. Mooncakes are priced from S$40 to S$104. Exclusive early bird discounts apply. 

Godiva

Belgian chocolatier, GODIVA brings a fresh twist to mooncakes with their 2024 Mid-Autumn Festival Collection, including bite-sized Mini Tartes making its debut in Singapore. Enjoy the buttery treat in four mouth-watering flavours, Hazelnut Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Pistachio White Chocolate, and Strawberry Chocolate. Otherwise their bunny-themed chocolate mooncakes in new flavours like Pecan Speculoos White Chocolate and Orange Almond Milk Chocolate are sure to delight. 

Godiva’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online and in-stores from 30 August to 17 September 2024. Mooncake Gift Sets are priced from S$49 to S$219. 

Janice Wong

Reimagining Mid-Autumn delights, Janice Wong offers sophisticated flavours, alongside artful and reusable packaging in the 2024 Mooncake collection. Find innovative flavours like Peanut Gingerflower and Gula Lapis Whisky Old Fashioned in the Signature Chocolate Mooncakes. Traditional baked mooncakes get a healthy glow up in the Low-Sugar Baked Mooncakes in flavours like Kuromitsu Sea Salt and Pistachio. And their Snowskin mooncakes, with ingredients from Japan, boast options like Sweet Potato Cashew and Matcha Yuzu. Great for gifting, the mooncakes come in a metallic tin or a reusable custom-designed handbag.

Janice Wong’s Mid-Autumn delights are available for pre-order online and in-stores from now to 30 August 2024. Mooncake Gift Sets are priced from S$95.

Top Image: The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore

The post Mid-Autumn Festival 2024: New & Traditional Mooncake Flavours In Elegant Gift Sets For A Stylish Reunion appeared first on City Nomads.

Burnt Ends

Burnt Ends, a Michelin-starred gem, is renowned for its modern Australian barbecue and its dynamic, open-concept kitchen where guests can watch the culinary magic unfold. Under the helm of Chef-Owner Dave Pynt, the restaurant has gained international acclaim for its innovative use of wood-fired ovens to cook premium meats and seafood. The menu, which changes daily, features mouth-watering dishes like the Sanger Burger and Beef Marmalade And Pickles, offering a symphony of smoky, rich flavours that keep diners coming back for more.

Burnt Ends is located at 7 Dempsey Road, #01-04, Singapore 249671. The Restaurant section is open Thu-Sat 12pm-2.30pm (lunch) , Tue-Sat 6pm-11pm (dinner).  Closed on Sun. 

Canchita Peruvian Cuisine

Canchita Peruvian Cuisine is a vibrant and festive restaurant that brings the bold and colourful flavours of Peru to Singapore. Chef Daniel Chavez, with his extensive culinary experience, crafts a menu that showcases traditional Peruvian dishes such as ceviche, anticuchos, and hearty stews. The lively ambience, complete with Peruvian art and music, makes it a perfect spot for a lively night out. Signature dishes like the Ceviche Clasico (S$30) and Lomo Saltado (S$48) are must-tries, and their Pisco Sour (S$22) is the ideal accompaniment to any meal.

Canchita is located at #9A 9B Dempsey Rd, Singapore 247698. Open Thu-Sun 11:30am-3pm (lunch),  Mon-Sun 5:30pm-10:30pm (dinner). 

AIR CCCC

Air CCCC, an innovative dining destination in Dempsey Hill, is helmed by acclaimed chefs Matthew Orlando and Will Goldfarb. This cutting-edge restaurant is celebrated for its avant-garde approach to gastronomy, blending imaginative culinary techniques with a commitment to sustainability. Chef Matthew Orlando, formerly of Noma, brings his expertise in crafting dishes that emphasise local and seasonal ingredients, while Chef Will Goldfarb, known for his work at Room4Dessert in Bali, infuses the menu with his distinctive dessert creations. The result is a dynamic and multi-sensory dining experience, featuring signature dishes like Caramelised Cauliflower with Black Garlic, Fermented Cassava Bread and Whole Coral Grouper For Two and an array of inventive desserts. The minimalist yet elegant decor, complete with an open kitchen, allows diners to witness the meticulous preparation of each course. Read our full article here.

Air CCCC is located at 25B Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249918. Open Wed – Sun from 5.30pm onwards. 

Open Farm Community

More than just a mere dining destination, Open Farm Community is Singapore’s pioneering urban farm and restaurant concept celebrating sustainable dining. Situated amidst a sprawling urban farm, this eatery emphasises farm-to-table practices, using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to create innovative dishes. The menu presents a ranges of flavours from Udon Cacio E Pepe (S$32) to Char-Grilled Koji Aged Beef (from S$52) with garam masala sauce and laksa chimichurri, all bursting with fresh, natural flavours. The serene, green surroundings provide a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, making it a favourite for those seeking a wholesome dining experience.

Open Farm Community is located at 130E Minden Rd, Singapore 248819. Open Mon-Fri 12pm-3.30pm (lunch), Mon-Sun 6pm-11pm (dinner), Sat-Sun 11am-3.30pm (brunch). 

Sushi Sato 鮨 佐とう

For an authentic Japanese dining experience, Sushi Sato is an unparalleled choice. This intimate sushi restaurant is led by Master Chef Yuji Sato and Head Chef Yusuke Kawana, both of whom bring a wealth of expertise and dedication to the art of sushi-making. Sushi Sato offers an exquisite omakase experience that highlights the freshest seafood flown in from Japan. Each piece of sushi is crafted with precision and artistry, ensuring a memorable culinary journey.  Appreciate the nuanced flavours and textures of Japanese cuisine at this sanctuary for sushi and sashimi connoisseurs.

Sushi Sato is located at 6B Dempsey Rd, Singapore 247662. Open Tue-Sun 12pm-3pm (lunch), 6.30pm-10.30pm (dinner). Closed on Mon.

TINTO

Sister brand of Canchita, TINTO is a lively Spanish wine bar and restaurant that captures the essence of Spanish dining. The brainchild of Chef Daniel Chavez, TINTO specialises in traditional tapas and fine wines, providing an authentic Spanish experience in the heart of Dempsey Hill. The menu features a variety of tapas like Gambas al Ajillo (S$28) and their range of Fideuàs, all perfectly paired with a curated selection of Spanish wines. The vibrant atmosphere, reminiscent of a bustling Spanish tavern, makes TINTO an ideal spot for a convivial evening with friends.

TINTO is located at 10 Dempsey Rd, #01-21, Singapore 247700. Open Fri-Sun 11.30am-3pm (lunch), Mon-Sun 5.30pm-10.30pm (dinner). 

Morsels

Morsels, an eclectic fusion restaurant, is the creation of Chef Petrina Loh. The restaurant’s menu is a delightful mix of Asian and Western flavours, crafted with seasonal and sustainable ingredients. Morsels’ intimate and rustic setting complements its innovative menu, which is constantly changing to promise diners new flavours. Chef Petrina’s inventive use of fermentation and pickling techniques adds unique depth and complexity to her dishes, perfect for those seeking bold and adventurous flavours. Read our interview with Chef Petrina here.

Morsels is located at 25 Dempsey Rd, #01-04, Singapore 249670. Open Tue-Sat 12pm-3pm (lunch), Tue-Thu 6pm-10pm (dinner), Fri-Sat 6pm-10.30pm (dinner), Sun 11.30am-3pm (lunch, closed for dinner). Closed on Mon full day.

Atout

Perfect for a romantic dinner or a leisurely brunch, Atout, a charming French bistro, offers a taste of France in the heart of Dempsey Hill. Led by Chef-owner Patrick Heuberger, Atout serves classic French cuisine with a contemporary twist. The cosy and inviting atmosphere, complete with a picturesque garden, enhances the dining experience. Signature dishes like Duck Rillette (S$18), 200gm “Woodfire” Grilled “Stockyard” Angus Tenderloin (S$62), and Black Forest Cake (S$28) reflect Atout’s dedication to quality and authenticity.

Atout is located at 40C Harding Rd, Singapore 249548. Open Mon-Thu 12pm-9pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-9.30pm. Closed on Sun. 

Min Jiang at Dempsey

Min Jiang at Dempsey is a sophisticated Chinese restaurant renowned for its elegant take on Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine. Set within a beautifully restored colonial building, Min Jiang offers a refined dining experience with dishes that are both visually stunning and delectably flavourful. Signature items like Beijing Duck (S$128 for a whole duck), meticulously prepared and carved at the table, and the delicate Dim Sum selections, highlight the restaurant’s culinary excellence.

Min Jiang at Dempsey is located at 7A & 7B Dempsey Road, Singapore 249684. Open daily 11.30am–2.30pm (lunch), 6.30pm–10.30pm (dinner).

Blu Kouzina

Blu Kouzina brings the authentic flavours of Greece to Dempsey Hill. This beloved Greek restaurant is known for its fresh, healthy Mediterranean dishes, prepared using traditional Greek ingredients. The bright and airy decor, complete with whitewashed walls and blue accents, transports diners to the Greek Isles. Signature dishes such as Xtapodi (S$49.50), Souvlaki (S$34.50), and Baklava (S$17.50) showcase the restaurant’s commitment to tradition.

Blu Kouzina is located at 10 Dempsey Road, #01-21, Singapore 247700. Open daily 11.30am–3.30pm (lunch), 5.30pm–10.30pm (dinner). 

The Dempsey Project

The Dempsey Project is a versatile dining spot that offers a wide range of international cuisines, catering to all tastes and preferences. The menu features everything from hearty brunch options to global comfort food, making it a popular choice for casual dining. The relaxed and inviting atmosphere is perfect for gatherings with friends and family. Don’t miss their impressive selection of gourmet cheeses, and an iced coffee while you’re in the area!

The Dempsey Project is located at 9 Dempsey Road, #01-12, Singapore 247697. Open Sun-Thu 8am–9pm, Fri-Sat 8am–10.30pm. 

Chopsuey Cafe

Chopsuey Cafe is known for its modern reinterpretation of classic Chinese dishes. The restaurant, part of the PS.Cafe group, blends Western and Asian ingredients to create unique and flavourful dishes. Set in a charming colonial building, Chopsuey Cafe offers a menu that includes items like Szechuan Pepper Chilli Chicken (S$24) and Sweet & Sour Fish & Chips (S$28), as well as a creative Dim Sum selection. The stylish decor and innovative menu make it a great choice for those looking to enjoy contemporary Chinese cuisine in a chic setting.

Chopsuey Cafe is located at 10 Dempsey Road, #01-23, Singapore 247700. Open Sun-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11.30pm. 

Candlenut

Candlenut is the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, renowned for its contemporary take on traditional Peranakan dishes. Chef Malcolm Lee, a champion of Peranakan cuisine, uses his culinary expertise to present dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. The menu includes standout items like Candlenut’s Buah Keluak Fried Rice (S$28) and Westholme Wagyu Beef Rib Rendang (S$48), each dish telling a story of heritage and flavour. If you’re looking to explore the rich and complex flavours of Peranakan cuisine, Candlenut is the place to be.

Candlenut is located at 17A Dempsey Road, Singapore 249676. Open daily 12pm-3pm (lunch), 6-10pm (dinner). 

Claudine

Claudine, the brainchild of Chef Julien Royer, offers a convivial French dining experience that highlights the best of French cuisine. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with a menu featuring classic dishes like Coq Au Vin (S$58) and Bouillabaisse (S$198 for 2-3pax), makes it a perfect spot for any occasion. Chef Julien, also the mastermind behind the three-Michelin-starred Odette, brings his expertise and passion for French culinary arts to Claudine, ensuring a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable.

Claudine is located at 39C Harding Road, Singapore 249541. Open Mon & Fri 11.35am-2pm, Sat-Sun 11.30am-3pm for lunch. Open daily 6-10pm for dinner. 

Margarita’s

Margarita’s is a vibrant Mexican restaurant known for its lively ambience and delicious margaritas. The menu features classic Mexican dishes such as Fajitas, Tacos, and Enchiladas, all made with fresh ingredients and bold flavours. The cheerful atmosphere, complete with colourful decor and upbeat music, makes Margarita’s a great spot for a fun and casual dining experience. Their signature margaritas, available in a variety of flavours, are the perfect complement to the flavourful dishes.

Margarita’s is located at 11 Dempsey Road, #01-19, Singapore 249673. Open daily 11.30am-10.30pm. 

The Tanglin Gin Jungle

The Tanglin Gin Jungle offers a unique experience for gin lovers, set amidst a lush, jungle-themed environment. This bar specialises in locally crafted gins, with the Tanglin Orchid Gin being a standout. The exotic setting, adorned with tropical plants and vibrant decor, creates a relaxing and immersive atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a variety of bespoke cocktails, such as Negronis and Gin & Tonics, all expertly crafted with local botanicals.

The Tanglin Gin Jungle is located at 26A Dempsey Road, Singapore 247693. Open Tue-Thu 5pm-10pm, Fri 5pm-12am, Sat 1pm-12am, Sun 1pm-9pm. Closed on Mon.

Top Image: The Dempsey Project

The post Dining Guide to Dempsey: Spots for Date Nights, Brunches, Family Feasts & Gourmet Adventures appeared first on City Nomads.

Meat-Free: Ki Su Shoujin Omakase

With more people turning to plant-based food, it makes sense for a vegetarian fine dining concept to take its place in the Omakase scene. Ki Su Shoujin Omakase, from the same people behind Joie Restaurant, combines the artistry of Japanese and French cuisine in their lunch (S$88++) and dinner (S$168++) course menu. Instead of raw fish, the chef creatively recreates the texture of seafood with mushrooms and capsicum, ingredients you’d never think could taste like fish. Other highlights on the menu include the appetising Beetroot Cigar which sees apples and mayonnaise wrapped inside a beetroot casing and the  Golden Temaki featuring maitake mushrooms, gold flakes, and an egg yolk, yet delivering the briny taste of oysters, thanks to the clever use of Oyster leaf. A win for both meat lovers and vegetarians.

Ki Su Shoujin Omakase is located at 60 Tras St, #01-01, Singapore 078999, p.+65 8522 6824. Open Mon – Sat 10am –10pm. 8-course lunch runs S$88++ per person, 10-course dinner runs S$168++.

Aged-Fish: Sushi Kawasemi

Against the convention of using fresh fish in sushi, Sushi Kawasemi stands out for its days-old fish used in Edomae-style sushi. Born at a time when there was no refrigeration, chefs used wet and dry ageing techniques to preserve the fish and its taste. Needless to say, it involves meticulous processes and constant monitoring, especially in humid Singapore. The head chef at Sushi Kawasemi keeps tabs on every step, right down to how the fish was gutted, to ensure optimal taste and texture. Try them in their 18-course Kawasemi Sushi Course (S$188++) which features tender seasonal catches aged for five to seven days, with enhanced umami on Edomae rice. The menu evolves but you can expect the delicious and surprisingly filling meal to end with their signature pillowy soft Tamagoyaki. 

Sushi Kawasemi is located at 120 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068589, p.+65 8505 4288. Open Mon-Fri, 12pm–2.30pm & 6.30pm–10.30pm and Sat 6.30pm–10.30pm. Closed Sun.

Tea-centric: Ichigo Ichie

Tea, usually served alongside Japanese food, gets its time of the day, with Chef Eno incorporating it into the courses at Ichigo Ichie. In its new home at Claymore Connect, the Japanese fine-dining kappo restaurant kicks things off on the high, enriched by the chef’s creative use of tea. Find fresh maguro marinated in Lapsang souchong and shoyu or the refreshing starter of tairagai and renkon served with roselle tea jelly and pickled roselle. The unagi donabe is flavoured with the nuttiness of Dong Ding Oolong tea, while genmaicha lends its toasty flavours to the ice cream dessert served with aritaya soy jelly. Chef doesn’t just stop there, the tea-centric course will soon be accompanied by an upcoming tea bar for more tea-infused programs. 

Ichigo Ichie is located at 442 Orchard Rd, #01-16/17 Claymore Connect, Singapore 238879, p.+65 9018 2897. Open Tue – Sat 12pm –2.30pm, 7pm -10.30pm. Lunch runs from S$138++ per person and dinner starts from S$350++ per person.

Charcoal-Grilled: Shin Terroir

A fiery omakase experience ensues once you walk the stone-laid path, past the tree (a real tree sticking through the roof) into this intimate 12-seater restaurant, Shin Terroir. Sit by the marble counter and watch the chefs fire up the perfect skewers over Kishu bincho, charcoal derived from Japanese oak, over the three-tiered custom-made grill. The 15-course menu (S$198++) starts light with familiar appetisers like chawanmushi adorned with awabi and snow crab and onigiri filled with maguro and caviar and concludes with richer flavours in their collagen-rich chicken ramen with quail eggs. The chefs add their touch of creativity to traditional items and this is especially clear to see in the Mille Feuille, a layered delight of crackling chicken skin draped over chicken gizzard and chives. Pair the course with wines and sake from their extensive list, or pop next door to their wine lounge for a nightcap. 

Shin Terroir is located at 80 Tras Street, Singapore 079019, p. +65 96560654. Open Mon-Sat 5pm–12am (Lounge), 6pm–10pm (Restaurant). Closed on Sun. The 15-course menu is priced at $198++ per pax.

Deep-Fried: Tenshima

Deep-fried and crispy are not the usual words you’ll associate with an exquisite omakase experience, but after a visit to Tenshima, you will. Instead of heavy and greasy, Chef Shima presents a series of light and crisped dishes in the Lunch (S$180++) and Dinner (S$400++) omakase menu. To do that, he prepares a fresh batch of batter every 30 minutes and works his highly refined culinary skills frying traditional and rarer tempura items like A5 Miyazaki Tenderloin and sashimi-grade Hotate, each delivering the crisp white retaining its tenderness. His precision and meticulousness mean no oil splattering or dripping on the artisan-crafted Hinoki countertop. And the gentle sizzles that echo through the ryokan-like setting make for a soothing ASMR experience. Read our full review here.

Tenshima is located at  9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-09 Millenia Walk, Singapore 039596, p.+65 6226 6666. Open Tue-Wed, Sat-Sun 12.30pm–3.30pm, 6.30pm–10pm, Thu 6.30pm– 10.30pm, Fri 12.30pm–3.30pm, 6.30pm– 10.30pm. Closed on Mon.

Hot-plate: Kou Teppan

Within the myriad options of Japanese food lies the sizzling hot Teppanyaki and Kou Teppan serves piping hot omakase starting at an affordable S$68++. Led by Chef Sawada Ko, the restaurant offers an innovative dual-teppan concept, where you can watch the chef’s fiery action at the central griddle and enjoy personalisation on the personal teppan. The courses start with seasonal appetisers and are followed by mains like the slow-cooked Japanese pork and seasonal prime fish, before moving to heartier options like the mini okonomiyaki, Japanese A5 Wagyu kamameshi or garlic rice. We enjoyed the Seasonal Fish Cartoccio with fish and clams cooked in foil during our tasting. Pair your meal with a sake-tasting flight for an additional $15.

Kou Teppan is located at 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #B1-134, Great World City, Singapore 237994, p.+65 6235 1634. Open daily 11.30am –3pm, 6pm -10pm. 

Sun-Lit: Sushi Hare

Sushi Hare, just like its name suggests, is a sunny retreat located in the centre of the CBD. Combining the Japanese spirit of Shokunin and the Taiwanese value of Hospitality, our experience here felt so warm and homely that we didn’t even notice the heavy rain outside.  Taiwanese-born Chef Angus brings part of his heritage into the omakase courses here like the Hotaru Ika, inspired by Taiwanese braised pork rice, with rice infused with the umami from Botan Ebi prawn heads topped with binchotan and wara straw-grilled firefly squid. Dip the Tsukemen-inspired Chuutoro noodles in the housemade dipping sauce and find the prized horsehair crab Kegani served in a refreshingly unique way, with dashi jelly and crab roe. This is one of those that’ll warm your soul and belly. 

Sushi Hare is located at 14 Stanley St, Singapore 068733, p.+65 9737 0113. Open Fri -Sun 12pm– 3pm, 6pm –10pm. Closed Mon-Thu.

Zen-themed: Sushi Sato 

Nestled within the lush greenery of Dempsey, Sushi Sato offers a slice of Japan with its wood-clad space and a manicured zen garden by its entrance. The intimate nine-seater restaurant is centred by a 200-year-old Hinoki wood counter where you’ll feast on the Lunch (starting from S$168++) and Dinner (starting from S$400++) omakase courses. Using only fine ingredients, the chefs embrace the simple but profound Edomae style of preparation to highlight the natural flavours and sweetness of the season’s harvest. As a fine dining experience, the approachable lunch course sees fresh catch like Chuutoro and Hamachi, and prized delicacies like Isakai, and Hokkaido Uni atop delicious Tsuyahime rice seasoned with Chef Sato’s unique blend of Japanese red vinegars. Besides savouring the sushi, we also loved the flavourful trout soup that warmed our bellies. 

Sushi Sato is located at 6B Dempsey Rd, Singapore 247662, p.+65 6971 8265. Open Tue – Sun 12pm –3pm, 7pm -10.30pm. 

Beef-Focused: Fat Cow 

One for beef lovers, Fat Cow offers a hearty Dinner Wagyu Omakase (S$290++ per person) which features beef cuts from around Japan. From Sendai to Miyazaki and Kagoshima, Chef Shingo spotlights the flavours of each variant by pairing and cooking them in a variety of ways. Find Hida A5 Wagyu served in a steamed pumpkin bun with Okinawa brown sugar and Ohmi A5 Wagyu in Sukiyaki style. Taste Kyoto A4 Wagyu in Shabu Shabu with Saikyo Miso and Toriyama A4 Wagyu Carpaccio is dressed in black truffle and gold dust. We really liked how each variant was made to shine in taste and texture. This lavish meal is perfect for those on the Keto diet and even if you aren’t, trust us, it’s still worth the calories. 

Fat Cow is located at 1 Orchard Boulevard, #01-01/02 Camden Medical Centre, Singapore 248649, p.+65 6735 0308. Open Sun- Thu 12pm –3pm, 6pm -10.30pm, Fri – Sat 12pm -3pm, 6pm -11pm. 

Top Image Ki Su Shoujin Omakase

The post More than Sushi: Unique Omakase Experiences to Try in Singapore appeared first on City Nomads.

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant

Blending traditional culinary practices and modern sensibilities, Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant crafts a menu of elevated Cantonese cuisine, from handcrafted dim sum to classic favourites. Dig into elevated Dim Sum dishes like the Steamed Hokkaido Scallop and Sturgeon Caviar Dumpling (S$12++ for 2 pieces) and the Steamed Beef Tripe and Yam with Szechuan Chilli Garlic Sauce (S$8++ per portion). Find modern interpretation of time-honoured recipes in the Deep-Fried Cod Fish with Crab Meat and Hairy Crab Roe (S$35++ per portion), where succulent cod fish sits atop creamy hairy crab roe.

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant is located at 320 Orchard Road, Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel, Singapore 238865, p.+65 6831 4605. Open daily 11.30am -3pm, 6pm – 10pm.

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant

In a modern elegance that meets traditional charm, Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant, a stalwart in Cantonese cuisine, has won enduring fans with its authentic Cantonese dishes. Its popular dim sum lunches even offer a rotating menu of double-boiled soups, in true Cantonese style. Find items like Marinated Spiced Duck Wings and Beancurd (S$22++) and Assorted Barbecued Combination (from S$40++) on the a la carte menu. Or order the set menu with classic dishes like Steamed Live Bamboo Clam with Garlic and Steamed Live “Dong Xing” Grouper from S$140++ per person (minimum five to dine)

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant is located at 76 Bras Basah Road, Carlton Hotel Singapore, Singapore 189558, p.+65 6311 8188. Open Mon – Sat 11.30am -2.30pm, 6.30pm -10pm, Sun 11am -2.30pm, 6.30pm -10pm.

Min Jiang at Dempsey

Nestled in a lush enclave, dining at Min Jiang at Dempsey offers a refreshing retreat from the bustle of city life. Its contemporary-meets-oriental style carries through in its dim sum menu, where you’ll find cute creations like the Steamed ‘Goldfish’ Prawn Dumpling (S$5.80++ per piece) and the Deep-fried ‘Golden Pear’ Curry Chicken with Mushrooms (S$8.80++ for 3 pieces). For a party of six, relish in the dinner set menus (from S$520++ per table), which includes their Legendary Wood-fired Beijing Duck served with Homemade Crepes and the Steamed Sea Perch – an ode to Cantonese culinary excellence. 

Commemorating its fifth anniversary, Min Jiang at Dempsey is running a special Anniversary Menu (S$138++ per person, minimum two to dine) until 31 May 2024.

Min Jiang at Dempsey is located at 7A &, 7B Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249684, p.+65 6774 0122. Open Mon – Fri 11.30am -2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm, Sat-Sun 11am -2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm.

Yan Ting

Along with the space refresh, Yan Ting at The St. Regis welcomes new Executive Chinese Chef Chan Chin Shing with his innovative take on traditional Cantonese dishes. Within the elevated space, feast on signature dishes like the Honey-glazed Barbecued Iberico Pork (S$48++ per portion) and the not-to-be-missed Fried “Pik Fong Tong’ Radish Cake (S$20++) – so good you can’t stop at one. Relish in new creations like the comforting Braised Superior Bird’s Nest with Crabmeat and Pumpkin Broth (S$118++) and the Wok-fried Lobster Angel Hair Pasta with Truffle (S$48++ per person) – Cantonese cuisine with an Italian twist!

Yan Ting is located at 29 Tanglin Rd, Level 1U The St. Regis Singapore, Singapore 247912, p.+65 6506 6887. Open daily 12pm- 2.30pm, 6 -10.30pm.

Golden Peony

Chinese Executive Chef Ku Keong sets the table at Golden Peony with authentic Cantonese dishes, telling stories of his Hong Kong heritage. Whether you order the set meal or a la carte dishes, don’t miss barbecued specialities such as the Signature Roasted London Duck. Warm up your stomach with a comforting Double Boiled Kami-Sakura Chicken or reach for their dim sum menu which sees plant-based options like Truffle Shiitake Buns and ‘Szechuan’ Ma La Dumplings. Following the long-standing tradition of tea-pairing with food, there’s even a special Spring Tea Pairing menu for lunch.

Golden Peony is located at 2 Temasek Boulevard, Conrad Centennial Singapore, Singapore 038982, p.+65 6432 7482. Open Mon – Fri 11.30am -2.30pm, 6.30pm -10.30pm, Sat-Sun 11.30am – 1pm, 1.30pm – 3pm, 6.30pm -10.30pm.

Man Fu Yuan

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Man Fu Yuan (@manfuyuansg)

A renowned name in Singapore’s Cantonese fine dining scene, Man Fu Yuan is all about contemporary interpretations of traditional flavours using the finest ingredients. The progressive restaurant often runs creative collaborations with other top chefs, bringing you all the best of Cantonese cuisine under one roof. With Chef Aaron at its helm, you’ll enjoy everything from delicacies like Flambé Braised Crocodile Palm (S$98++ per portion) to crowd favourites like the Apple Wood Smoked Irish Duck ( from S$68++). Treat yourself to a lavish dim sum buffet (S$98++ per person) on the weekends, which includes Chef’s Signature Braised 8-Head Abalone and more.

Man Fu Yuan is located at 80 Middle Road Level 2 InterContinental Singapore, Singapore 188966, p. +65 6825 1008. Open Mon – Fri 12pm -3pm, 6pm -10pm, Sat-Sun 11.30am -3pm, 6pm -10pm.

YÀN Restaurant

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Yan Cantonese Restaurant (@yancantonesecuisine)

Reviving Classic Cantonese dishes from the 1980s, YÀN Restaurant offers a feast for the senses with meticulous techniques that spotlight the natural goodness of premium ingredients. Testament of this is the riff on ‘Pao Fan’, the Poached Star Grouper Fish Fillet with Superior Prawn Stock and Crispy Rice, where the sweetness of Grouper shines through alongside the rich umami of the stock. The Grilled Lamb Rack is a delectable Hong Kong twist on Western cuisine, and the Traditional YÀN Claypot Rice with Preserved Meat, Chinese and Liver Sausage is a well-loved item on the menu.

YÀN Restaurant is located at 1 St Andrew’s Road, #05-02 National Gallery Singapore, Singapore 178957, p.+65 9272 7522. Open daily 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm.

Madame Fan

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Madame Fan (@madamefansg)

Immerse in an opulent old-world charm and indulge in Madame Fan’s contemporary twist on classic Cantonese cuisine. Sink into plush velvet furnishings as you feast on the extensive selection of dim sum and Cantonese classics. Treat yourself to the Dim sum and Drink Sum (from S$98++ per person) weekend brunch or savour their set menus (from S$78++ per person, minimum two to dine) with soups like the comforting Pig Stomach & Chicken Soup and carbs like the Grilled Iberico Pork Neck with Crispy Noodles. With a diverse a la carte menu featuring soups, seafood and steamed delights, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Madame Fan is located at 32 Beach Rd, The NCO Club, Singapore 189764, p. +65 6818 1921. Open Mon – Fri 12.30pm – 2.30pm, 6pm -10pm, Sat-Sun 11am – 3.30pm, 6pm -10pm.

Asia Grand Restaurant

Putting the spotlight on traditional Cantonese flavours, Asia Grand Restaurant is best loved for its authentic Cantonese cuisine and fresh seafood. Especially their roasted meats that are fired with traditional methods to offer the most authentic tastes. Warm your tummy with their wide selection of soups and thick soups, and savour the freshness of live seafood. Tuck into succulent slices of Steam Sliced Chicken with Jinhua Ham (from S$40 for half), a classic Cantonese delicacy, and savour the Deep Fried Stuffed Crab Claw with Minced Shrimp (S$18++ per piece).

Asia Grand Restaurant is located at  252 North Bridge Rd, #03-22B Fairmont Singapore (South Tower, Singapore 179103, p.+65 6887 0010. Open Mon – Fri 11.30am -3pm, 6pm -10pm, Sat-Sun 11am -3pm, 6pm -10pm.

Top Image: Golden Peony

The post The Best Chinese Restaurants in Singapore for Cantonese Fare: Double-Boiled Soups, Dim Sum, Suckling Pigs, and More appeared first on City Nomads.

Cha Chaan Teng

The Australian Dairy Company

You can’t say you’ve been to Hong Kong without visiting this popular cha chaan teng. Besides serving some of the best scrambled eggs on toast and steamed milk custard, they are also known for their super efficiency and service (or lack of), giving you the quintessential cha chaan teng experience. But to be fair, they need to keep the well-oiled system going to feed throngs of time-starved (and starving) customers – so expect no small talk here. Decide what you want outside the shop and don’t hog the seats when you are done. P.S. Apart from it’s name, there’s nothing Australian here!

The Australian Dairy Company is located at 47 Parkes St, Jordan, Hong Kong, p. +852 2730 1356. Open daily 7.30am –10pm.

Sing Heung Yuen (勝香園)

Nestled within an alleyway, Sing Heung Yuen is one of the oldest surviving dai pai dong (open-air food stalls) and a local favourite for Tomato Beef Noodles. The signature dish is made and topped with fresh tomatoes and served with generous slices of beef, a comforting combination so good that even celebrities like Chow Yun Fatt have been spotted here (According to the boss, he’s a regular). Other favourites include the Tomato Soup Macaroni and the crispy Lemon Honey Bun.

Sing Heung Yuen is located at 2 Mee Lun Street, Central, Hong Kong, p.+852 2544 8368. Open Mon – Sat 8am –3.30pm. Closed Sun.

Kam Fung Restaurant (金鳳茶餐廳)

This hole-in-the-wall is a traditional Hong Kong eatery best known for its Bolo Bun (sweet crusted bun that’s known as ‘pineapple’ bun), Egg Tarts, and Chicken Pie. Most regulars will go for the buns with their set meals, even though there is an extra charge, or order them for takeaway. Just like any other Cha Chaan Teng, efficiency is the name of the game, so slurp up your Satay Beef Noodles and make space for other diners in the queue. 

Kam Fung Restaurant is located at 41 Spring Garden Ln, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, p.+852 2572 0526. Open daily 7am – 6.45pm.

Chrisly Cafe

What started as an alternative to Australian Dairy Company (ADC) in Wan Chai, Chrisly Cafe, formerly Capital Cafe, has developed its own following with multiple outlets around Hong Kong. Its menu may be similar to ADC but its bougie options like the Scrambled Egg Toast with Black Truffle keep diners coming back. Heartier offerings include Macaroni and Ham with Fried Egg and Corned Beef Sandwich, to be enjoyed alongside traditional milk tea. Be prepared to share tables and eat fast. You might just see another celebrity here too!

Chrisly Cafe has multiple outlets around Hong Kong. Find out more here.

Café Seasons

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 四季常餐 (@cafe_seasonshk)

Café Season’s take on macaroni is anything but ordinary. Their homemade soup, simmered with pig bone and eggshells, is thickened with Japanese rice, which creates a comforting broth that pairs perfectly with macaroni. Here, food is crafted from quality ingredients, just like their velvety smooth scrambled eggs, which use a blend of Japanese, Chinese, and American eggs, sans milk and cream. However, it’s the BBQ Pork Rice with Scrambled Eggs that takes the cake as the best-seller. Their affordable lunch sets are hugely popular, so try to avoid dropping by from 12pm–2pm, unless queuing is on your agenda. 

Cafe Seasons is located at  88 Des Voeux Rd Central, Central, Hong Kong, p.  +852 2650 2088. Open daily 7.30am –8pm.

Dim Sum

Luk Yu Teahouse (陸羽茶室)

At Luk Yu Teahouse, time seems to come to a standstill; its furniture and furnishings are from more than 90 years ago, and even its staff have been working there for decades. Generations of regular customers gather on the first floor for their daily dim sum breakfast, leaving the second and third floors for other diners. However, those fill up quickly too. It is said they even had to turn down a visit from the Queen of the UK. Locals and tourists come for traditionally prepared dim sum served like Char Siew Bun, Prawn Toast, Egg Tarts, and more, served via the dim sum trolley. Not the cheapest dim sum but definitely the most nostalgic.

Luk Yu Teahouse is located at 24-26 Stanley St, Central, Hong Kong, p. +852 2523 5464. Open daily 7am –3pm.

One Dim Sum  (一點心)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 一點心 𝙊𝙣𝙚 𝘿𝙞𝙢 𝙎𝙪𝙢 (@onedimsumhk)

One Dim Sum is a wallet-friendly dim sum spot that won the hearts of Michelin inspectors in 2011 and 2012. Popular among locals and expats, you’ll have to strategise your visit – either arrive before they open or skip weekends – to save you from waiting in the queue. Steamed Beef Balls and Dumplings are a hot favourite here – juicy and succulent. Made the traditional way, BBQ Pork Buns are steamed until pillowy soft, then filled with sweet and savoury pork to the brim. Totally affordable and delicious.

One Dim Sum is located at G/F, 209A Tung Choi St, Prince Edward, Hong Kong, p. +852 2677 7888. Open daily 9.30am –10.30pm. 

Yum Cha HK (飲茶)

Known for their innovative and iconic BBQ Piggy Buns, Yum Cha HK is the spot for a fun and delicious experience that’ll fill your tummy and your Instagram feed. Some diners have been having fun with the oozing Hot Custard Buns (Liu sha bao), while others are wolfing down all the baos and dumplings they can get. But keep a lookout for its seasonal menu that features new creations or order classic Chinese dishes like the crowd-favourite Sweet and Sour Pork.

Yum Cha HK is located at  2/F, Nan Fung Place, Nan Fung Tower, 173 Des Voeux Rd Central, Central, Hong Kong, p.+852 3541 9710. Open daily 11.30am –3pm & 5.30pm – 10pm.

Sun Hing Restaurant (新興食家)

One for the night owls or the super early risers! The chefs at Sun Hing Restaurant begin their work when most people are in bed, rolling dough and wrapping dumplings in the middle of the night to serve piping hot dim sum to the hungry crowd at 3am. Eating here is not for the faint of heart; once you beat the queue, jostle your way to your seats (plastic stools) before ordering the freshly made Siew Mai and Salted Egg Custard Bun. Other outstanding dishes to try include Loh Mai Kai and Fried Milk.

Sun Hing Restaurant is located at G/F, 8 Smithfield Rd, Markfield Building, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, p. +852 2816 0616. Open daily 3am –4pm.

Tim Ho Wan

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 添好運點心專門店 (@timhowan.hk)

Sure, we have ten outlets here in Singapore, but nothing beats trying the original and Michelin-starred Tim Ho Wan at Sham Shui Po. The cosy 20-seater restaurant, where it all started, snagged its first star one year after opening; at one time, it was said to be the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant in the world. Savour your favourite items like BBQ Bun, Steamed Turnip Cake, Har Gow, Siew Mai, and more, and see if it’s any different from what we have here in Singapore. 

Tim Ho Wan Sham Shui Po is located at G/F, 9-11 Fuk Wing Street, Shan Shui Po, p.+852 27881226. 

Top Image: Yum Cha HK

The post From Cha Chaan Teng To Dim Sum: Iconic Spots To Yum Cha In Hong Kong appeared first on City Nomads.

True to its name, Tribal centres around the primitive art of wood-fire cooking, showcasing the vibrant flavours and textures inherent in Asian cooking. Expect to find familiar Chinese, Filipino, Indonesian, Japanese, and Thai influences, smoking on their menu; best enjoyed with your nearest and dearest. Built for communal dining, the warm and rustic enclave has a seating capacity of up to 58 people, but you’ll get a choice of front-row counter seats in the bustling open kitchen or longer tables for larger groups.

Kicking off our meal with an assortment of small dishes, the Amela Tomatoes (S$22++), while on the pricier side, delivered a burst of flavours. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes was elevated by an anchovy and garlic cream, and the dish was further enhanced by a gentle heat from the wasabina. The addition of smoked eel pieces and bonito flakes enriched the texture, providing a satisfying beginning to our dining experience. Adding a Sarawakian twist to ceviche, the Yellowtail Umai (S$24++) features slices of cured fish dressed in chickpea water and oil, garnished with kaffir lime zest, chili, and garlic. Accompanied by preserved tangerines, tomatoes, and coriander, this dish boasts a vibrant and flavourful finish.

While specialising in wood-fire cooking, they offer a “finger-licking-good” Fried Duck Neck (S$21++). The otherwise discarded duck neck cut is is doused into a secret house spice blend and deep-fried to a crisp, golden finish. Enjoy this moreish snack on its own or enhance its flavour with a dip into the mint nam pla (Thai fish sauce) for an added umami kick. Highly recommended!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by FOOD FIRE PEOPLE (@tribaldining)

The menu of shared mains, which spans both land and sea, includes a whole Octopus tentacle (S$48++) sous-vide and finished over fire. Touches of Thai and Indonesian cuisine shine through with papaya salad and a quenelle of sambal bajak. The Santori Organic Kampung Chicken (S$38++), glazed over with a traditional Thai marinade of fish sauce, honey, lemongrass, and lime, is slow-cooked over fire and served with a side of annatto spice, a floral and nutty condiment with Filipino and Vietnamese roots.

Craving carbs? Their selection of Sharing Rice Pots, suitable for 2 to 3 pax, seamlessly blends the essence of Indonesian-Malaysian Claypot Rice and Japanese Donabe. Whether you choose the Wild Mushrooms (S$58++), Seafood (S$78++), or Beef (S$88++), it boasts a delightful crunchy rice bottom and a Nasi Ulam base. During our visit, we savoured the Wild Mushroom Rice Pot, which features a blend of confit wild mushrooms and pickled mushrooms. Infused with wild mushroom and garlic oil, the dish exudes a delicate and earthy flavour, accompanied by a subtle tang on the palate. Along with the rice is a side order of Purple Sweetcorn (S$12++) coated with Mongolian spice, its sweetness accentuated by the gentle kiss of the fire.

For desserts, we relished the deconstructed version of the classic campfire treat, Smores (S$16++), which sees individual components like chocolate pave, torched marshmallows, and whole wheat cracker triangles served alongside a refreshing star fruit sorbet.

Tribal boasts a global wine selection with over 160 labels, showcasing classic to next-gen vintages, including biodynamic and sustainable options. Alongside the assortment of sake from esteemed to small-batch producers is a cocktail menu with big bold flavours that complement the wood-fired cooking. 

Tribal Dining is located at first floor of Mondrian Singapore Duxton located at 83 Neil Rd, #01-07, Singapore 089813, p.+65 9789 4699. Open Mon- Sat 6pm -11.30pm. Closed Sun. 

The post Restaurant Review: Savour Flame-Kissed Asian Fusion At Tribal, Mondrian Singapore Duxton appeared first on City Nomads.

Stepping into the four-storied shophouse located on Boon Tat Street, each vibrantly transformed level reflects unique stories – Sweet, a dessert cafe for caffeine and sweet fixes; Synthesis, the main bar space serving the COLOURS menu; Soiree, a personal event space for any occasion; and Sunset, their rooftop bar overlooking the city view.

Our initial taste adventure introduced us to the Pintan (S$16) — a crispy vol-au-vent shell cradling a century egg and tofu mixture, adorned with a savoury shoyu sauce. While century egg on its own has garnered mixed reviews from the masses due to it’s complex flavour profile, it was the perfect bite for us as the century egg contributed ideal salty and umami notes, harmonising seamlessly with the velvety parcel.

Complementing this delight was the Fresh Pink (S$25) from the “Mood” column of the menu – a refreshing herbaceous fusion of Altos Reposado Tequila and Sparkling Pink Coconut Water garnished with a basil rhubarb stick that alters the flavour profile and mouthfeel of the cocktail upon taking a bite. Jiawei’s insider tip is to nibble the tangy rhubarb between sips for an added burst of bright citrus flavours which enhanced this well-balanced libation.

A true feast awaited us for the second pairing. We began with their complementary Housemade Toasted Focaccia with Buah Keluak butter – an indulgent start. Next emerged the succulent Ribs ($18), cloaked in a glistening glaze of kicap manis and terasi – sweet soy sauce and lemongrass – that adhered well to each meaty bone. Crispy bits of fried garlic added texture and bite to the balanced salty-sweet profile. Alongside was the Tagliatelle (S$20), spotlighting handmade strands of its namesake pasta tossed in a savoury sesame oil and cooking wine base, then wreathed with spinach leaves and lap cheong slivers for gentle sweetness.

Our favourite of the night hands down has to be the crispy yet tender Samayo Fish Tacos ($10). Red cabbage crunched alongside the battered flakey fish inside soft taco shells, while the house-made sambal mayo tied it all together. That sublime blend of spicy, sour and creamy had us hooked from the very first mouthwatering bite.

For the drink pairing, we were served the Sparkle Pearl (S$25) from the “Flavours” section – featuring Moët Chandon, dill, pickled fruits and herbs in a champagne flute with pickled onion and green apple perched atop the glass rim. This unique cocktail particularly intrigued us as the savoury notes shone more boldly than previous drinks, almost evocative of a cheeseburger thanks to the pickled components. Jiawei tipped us off to first nibble the tart apple and onion before dunking them into the drink – allowing their briny tang to infuse the mixture with another lively layer of flavour.

Saving the best for last, the final pairing spotlighted White Shades’ signature WS “Jerk” Chicken (S$26) – succulent meat marinated in aromatic allspice and thyme before hitting the grill. This imparted a smoky depth, heightened by spicy flourishes from the herbs. Served alongside was a cooling raita, an Indian yogurt side dish providing balance through its gentle tangy creaminess.

Pairing with this spicy dish is the White III (S$25) coming from the “Mark” part of the menu – blending Belvedere vodka, Shiroi Chardonnay, and sweet umeshu liqueur into a harmony of sweet, sour and refreshing notes in a cool tiki-style glass. Topping it off was a shard of crispy milk “skin” that took us way back, tasting just like the childhood rabbit candy. This drink knocked it out of the park for us – blending flavours so seamlessly while bringing that playful nostalgia as well.

As an added treat before dessert took the spotlight, we were delighted with an extra drink – Clear Yellow (S$25) from the “Clear” section of the menu. Crafted with Maker’s Mark bourbon, mango, sweet corn, and a milk-washed mango corn leather chip derived from dehydrated mango and sweet corn pulp, this tipple offered a velvety and rich flavour profile. The infusion of sweetness and fruity notes from the added ingredients provided a delightful twist. Moreover, the playful element of biting into the mango corn leather chip added an extra layer of sweetness that paired seamlessly with the drink.

Finally, we come to the dessert that capped off the meal – the Yoghurt Strawmato (S$14). This creative dish featured a white chocolate yoghurt mousse and a strawmato – a strawberry and tomato fusion – confit, beautifully adorned with crisp meringue shards and tender tomato sponge pieces. Perched atop it all was an intricately-crafted tomato tuile adding textural contrast. Though an unlikely flavour pairing, the sweet strawberries and savoury tomatoes came together in this light and well-balanced dessert. With each bite, the novel interplay of fruity sweetness and umami brightness reminded us of a Virgin Bloody Mary.

Ultimately, creativity lies at the core of White Shades, with every detail thoughtfully designed to embody a spirit of innovation. This ethos shone through in their new menu, which did not fail to deliver on the restaurant’s promise of an unforgettable dining experience defined by inventive execution from start to finish.

White Shades is located at 25 Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069622, p. +65 8575 8578. Open Mon-Sat 11am to 12am (Level 1), 5pm to 12am (Level 2 and Level 4).

All images courtesy of White Shades. 

The post Restaurant Review: White Shades, An Artful Exploration of Colour and Flavour appeared first on City Nomads.