Permata @ Kampong Glam - Singapore's First-ever Nusantara Halal Buffet

Permata, located within the historic Gedung Kuning (Yellow Mansion) in Kampong Glam, Singapore’s first-ever Nusantara halal buffet showcases the diverse culinary heritage of the Malay Archipelago. Helmed by celebrity chef Mel Dean, the buffet presents innovative interpretations of traditional recipes, blending heritage with modern flair.

“Nusantara” is an old Javanese term referring to the interconnected islands of the Malay world. At Permata, diners can savour dishes inspired by six countries within the archipelago — Indonesia, Southern Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and East Timor. The menu changes every one to two months, and this June’s edition presents the vibrant flavours of Penang through a buffet spread of over 50 dishes.

Stir-Fried Chilli Mussels & Clams

Kari Telur

Sambal Udang

Daging Hitam Berempah

We dived straight into the hearty Warisan Pulau Pinang Station, which featured some of Penang’s most iconic Nasi Kandar accompaniments. Our plate was loaded with Stir-Fried Chilli Mussels & Clams, Sambal Udang, Kari Telur, Kari Ikan Mamak, Ayam Goreng Bawang, Daging Hitam Berempah, Okra and Stir-Fried Cabbage. The Ayam Goreng Bawang and Daging Hitam Berempah were particular standouts, both offering tender, succulent meat infused with robust spices and rich curry flavours.

One of the more interesting finds was the Nyonya Chang, a Peranakan glutinous rice dumpling shaped like a parcel, filled with blue pea flower-tinted rice. Within is a flavourful filling of braised chicken, mushrooms and aromatic spices.

Penang Char Koay Teow

Another Penang classic on offer was the Penang Char Koay Teow. While slightly different from the traditional rendition, it remained indulgent with prawns, egg, bean sprouts and chives. The stir-fried carrot cake was satisfying, generously studded with savoury egg throughout.

Assam Laksa

No Penang-themed spread would be complete without Assam Laksa, available at the DIY noodle station. Also featured was Mee Sotong Penang, inspired by the famous Hameed Pata Mee Sotong in George Town. Thick yellow noodles were coated in a rich, sweet-spicy sauce accented with tamarind, peanut and sambal chilli. The dish leaned towards the sweeter side, owing to Chef Mel Dean’s addition of sweet potato purée, which further enhanced its sweetness.

Complementing the richly flavoured mains was a selection of refreshing Nusantara Salads, including Penang Rojak.

During dinner service, guests can also enjoy an additional grill station featuring a wholesome selection of meats and seafood. Offerings included Chicken and Mutton Satay, Barramundi Bakar and Ayam Bakar Serai. The Barramundi Bakar impressed with its moist, tender flesh, while the Ayam Bakar Serai stood out for its enticing smoky char and fragrant lemongrass notes.

Also popular at Permata is its Seafood on Ice selection, and sambals, crackers, and both hot and cold desserts.

From 1 to 30 June 2026, enjoy a 1-for-1 Buffet (for adult guests only).
Lunch: $88++ for 2 Pax (U.P. $176++ for 2 Pax)
Dinner: $108++ for 2 Pax (U.P. $216++ for 2 Pax)
Children below 7 years old get to dine for free

Permata also offers affordable discounted prices for senior citizens, youths and children.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Permata
73 Sultan Gate
Singapore 198497
Tel: +65 9082 9941
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Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 5pm - 7pm, 730pm -930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT Station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge and walk to the end of the overhead bridge. Cross the road and walk down Beach Road. Turn left onto Sultan Gate Road. Walk down Sultan Gate Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Satori @ Amoy Street - Vibey Yakitori Spot Serving Over 50 Skewers at Wallet-Friendly Prices

Satori at Amoy Street fires up the grill with a lively, no-frills yakitori concept that strikes a compelling balance between omakase-level precision and the spirited energy of a modern Japanese tavern. Helmed by Chef Wilson, a protégé of yakitori master Chef Shyong from sister restaurant Sapōto, the concept brings serious grilling credentials into a more accessible, vibey setting.

With over 50 skewers on the menu priced from just $3.80, Satori is designed for both casual diners looking for a quick bite and enthusiasts eager to explore a wide spectrum of yakitori cuts.

Nori Salad 3.5/5

We began with the Nori Salad ($9.80), a refreshing starter that goes beyond the usual greens. Crisp lettuce and nori form the base, but what sets it apart is the addition of crispy whitebait scattered throughout. These tiny fish lend a delightful crunch and an umami punch, elevating the dish with both texture and depth. It’s a simple yet thoughtful composition that whets the appetite nicely.

Truffle Chawanmushi 4/5

The Truffle Chawanmushi ($9.80) is a crowd-pleasing classic done right. Silky smooth and delicately steamed, the custard melts effortlessly on the palate. The truffle oil is unmistakable, perfuming each spoonful with an earthy richness that feels indulgent without overwhelming the dish’s inherent lightness. It’s a comforting prelude to the heavier grilled items.

Tsukune (Minced Chicken)

Seseri Neck

Cherry Tomato

Bonjiri (Tail)

Sunagimo (Gizzard)

Shishito (Green Pepper)

Tebasaki (Mid Wing) / Chef’s Yakitori Set 4/5

To get a proper sense of Satori’s yakitori prowess, the Chef’s Selection Yakitori Set ($29.80) is an excellent starting point. Comprising seven skewers — including four chicken cuts, one organ, and two vegetables — it offers a well-rounded introduction to the menu. Each skewer is grilled over binchotan charcoal, imparting a deep, smoky aroma while preserving the ingredients’ natural juiciness.

The tsukune (minced chicken) is tender and well-seasoned, with a slight bounce and savoury glaze that lingers. Seseri (neck) delivers a satisfying chew with rich chicken flavour, while bonjiri (tail) stands out for its fatty, melt-in-the-mouth decadence. The sunagimo (gizzard) offers a firmer bite, adding textural contrast to the lineup. On the vegetable front, the shishito pepper provides a mild, smoky sweetness, and the cherry tomato bursts with juicy brightness, acting as a refreshing counterpoint. The tebasaki (mid-wing) rounds out the set with juicy meat beneath lightly crisped skin.

Mini Unagi Don 4/5

For something more substantial, the Mini Unagi Don ($16.80) makes for a satisfying companion. The grilled eel is glazed with a luscious sweet-savoury sauce that seeps into the fluffy Japanese rice beneath. A glossy egg yolk adds creaminess, balancing the sweetness, while slices of cucumber inject a welcome crunch and freshness. Despite its “mini” label, it feels hearty enough to anchor the meal.

Chicken Heart 4/5

Pork Belly with Lettuce 4.2/5

We also explored a few additional skewers. The Chicken Heart ($3.80) impresses with its clean, rich flavour and springy texture, free from any metallic aftertaste that sometimes plagues organ meats. The Pork Belly with Lettuce ($6.80) is particularly enjoyable — the pork belly renders beautifully over the grill, achieving a smoky, slightly crisp exterior. At the same time, the lettuce inside remains lightly wilted yet refreshing. It’s a clever combination, with the lettuce acting as a natural palate cleanser against the richness of the pork.

Beef Tongue 4.2/5

The Beef Tongue ($13.80) is grilled quickly over high heat, resulting in a caramelised char on the edges while retaining a tender bite. Its inherent fattiness and deep beefy flavour are enhanced by the smokiness from the binchotan, making it one of the more indulgent skewers on the menu.

Overall, Satori succeeds in delivering quality yakitori without the stiffness of a traditional omakase setting. The skewers are thoughtfully executed, the menu is extensive yet approachable, and the atmosphere encourages lingering over drinks and multiple rounds of skewers. It’s the kind of place where you can drop by for a casual bite or settle in for a full-on yakitori feast with friends — all without breaking the bank.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Satori
89 Amoy Street
Singapore 069908
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 3pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]