Lai Yuan Gourmet @ Clementi Ave 3 - Discovering a New and Quality Bowl of Bak Chor Mee in the West

Recently, a new noodle stall, Lai Yuan Gourmet, opened at the coffeeshop in Blk 442 Clementi Ave 3 (facing the hawker centre), replacing the previous noodle stall. Intrigued by the change, I decided to check out the new establishment.

Opting for the Bak Chor Mee ($4.80), I was pleasantly surprised to find that the noodles and ingredients were served separately. The mee pok noodles were perfectly cooked, boasting a delightful al dente texture and tossed in a well-balanced mix of chilli and vinegar.

Bak Chor Mee 4.2/5

In addition to the delicious noodles, the ingredients included thickly cut pork liver, pork slices, minced pork, and pork balls in a flavourful soup. The standout element was undoubtedly the tender and well-marinated pork balls, which were elevated by adding sole fish.

Overall, Lai Yuan Gourmet serves up a commendable bowl of noodles that is definitely worth a visit. I'm pleased to have discovered a quality Bak Chor Mee stall in the West, providing a go-to option whenever the craving strikes.


Lai Yuan Gourmet
Blk 442 Clementi Ave 3
#01-121
Singapore 120442
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: TBC

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee (老王传统福建面) @ Clementi Ave 1 - A Decent Plate of Fried Hokkien Mee In Clementi

Exploring my new neighbourhood has led me to Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee (老王传统福建面), tucked inside a quaint coffeeshop along Clementi Avenue 1. Intrigued by the local buzz surrounding this spot, I decided to try the Hokkien Mee.

Lao Wang caters to different appetites with their Hokkien Mee, available in three sizes: Small ($6), Medium ($9), and Large ($12). Opting for the small portion, I was pleasantly surprised by the generous serving, featuring a delightful mix of squid, prawn, and pork combined with yellow noodles and bee hoon. The menu also offers additional toppings like pork lard, prawns, sambal, or the option to serve it in opel leaf for an extra cost.

Fried Hokkien Mee 3.5/5

The Fried Hokkien Mee I sampled presented a unique take—neither overly dry nor immersed in a prawny broth. However, it lacked the robust flavour profile I typically seek in a stellar plate of Hokkien Mee. The distinct alkaline taste from the yellow noodles was more pronounced than I preferred.

In the grand landscape of Hokkien Mee offerings, Lao Wang's rendition falls just above the average standard. While it might not secure a spot in my top 10, it certainly stands out as a commendable choice for a decent plate of fried Hokkien Mee in the vicinity. For those seeking a satisfying local meal around Clementi, Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee is undoubtedly a "not bad" choice.



Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee
(老王传统福建面)
Blk 420A Clementi Ave 1
Singapore 121420
Tel: +65 97956033
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 11am - 930pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17179). Take bus 189. Alight 5 stops later. Cross the road, walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Mama Jac's Kitchenette Private Dining - A Memorable and Satisfying Cantonese-Peranakan Dinner

During my visit to Mama Jac's Kitchenette Private Dining in April 2023, I had the pleasure of experiencing an 8-course meal priced at $125.50 per person. Mama Jac specialises in Cantonese-Peranakan cuisine, offering a unique fusion of flavours and culinary traditions.

Mango Salad 4.5/5

Our private dining experience commenced with the tantalising Mango Salad, a refreshing appetiser that combined the perfect balance of crunch and pungent flavours. The vibrant mangoes added a delightful sweetness to the dish.

Hai Zhou 4.8/5

Next, we indulged in the Hai Zhou, a substantial dish featuring plump prawns wrapped in crispy beancurd skin. The prawns were succulent, bursting with natural sweetness, while the beancurd skin added a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Bakwan Kepiting 5/5

One of the standout dishes was the Bakwan Kepiting, a meatball soup packed with depth and robust flavours. The generously sized meatball was juicy and tender, enhanced by the addition of crabmeat, which imparted a delightful seafood sweetness. The bamboo shoots added a layer of texture and flavour to the dish.

Brandy Cincalok Ayam 4.8/5

A highlight of the evening was the Brandy Cincalok Ayam, a unique Peranakan creation that surprised and delighted my taste buds. The combination of cincalok, a traditional fermented shrimp paste, with brandy brought a new depth of flavour to the tender chicken, resulting in a deliciously unique culinary experience.

Nonya Chap Chye 4.8/5

The Nonya Chap Chye was executed flawlessly, with the various ingredients retaining their crunch and the fermented soybean imparting a distinct savoury note that elevated the dish's overall taste.

Mengkabo (Babi Masak Asam) 4.2/5

Mengkabo, also known as Babi Masak Asam, was another standout dish on the menu. The tender pork slices were cooked in a spicy and tangy sauce, tantalising the palate with their robust flavours. We were even encouraged to enjoy the dish with cut green chilli for an added dimension of enjoyment.

Assam Pedas Stingray 4/5

The Assam Pedas Stingray, a classic fish stew, is further impressed with its tangy and spicy profile. The addition of pineapple lent a fruity sweetness that beautifully complemented the tender stingray.

Panna Cotta Chendol

We savoured the Panna Cotta Chendol for dessert, a delightful conclusion to our meal. The homemade chendol, sea coconut, corn, and red beans were immersed in a thick and creamy coconut milk infused with the rich sweetness of Gula Melaka. While the dish was served without ice to allow the natural flavours to shine, I preferred it chilled for a more refreshing experience.

Mama Jac's Kitchenette Private Dining provided an enchanting culinary journey through Cantonese-Peranakan cuisine. The meticulously prepared dishes showcased a harmonious blend of flavours and textures, with each course leaving a lasting impression. Mama Jac's passion for her craft was evident in every dish, making this private dining experience a memorable and satisfying exploration of unique flavours and cultural influences.


Mama Jac's Kitchenette Private Dining
Blk 434 Clementi Ave 4
Singapore 120434
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen @ Clementi Mall - New Menu Featuring Hong Kong Inspired Specialties

Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen, a well-loved and favourite casual-dining restaurant, has launched a new menu featuring enticing quality dim sum and Hong Kong-inspired specialities like congee, noodles, and 'Dai Pai Dong' style claypot dishes.

Fish Ball & Scallop Skewer in HK Style Curry 4/5

A rendition of the iconic street snack, Fish Ball & Scallop Skewer in HK Style Curry ($9,80 for 3pc) comprises bouncy fish balls and scallops on a stick steeped in a luscious, spicy and fragrant curry sauce. The curry sauce has been given a local twist familiar to our palate.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Hairy Fig Root & Peach Gum 4/5

The Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Hairy Fig Root & Peach Gum ($12.80) is a hearty and nourishing bowl of soup that is deliciously good with health benefits. 

Shrimp Roe & Prawn Paste Noodle 4/5

Besides wanton mee, Hong Kong is known for its shrimp roe noodle. There is an elevated version in the form of Shrimp Roe & Prawn Paste Noodle ($13.80) comprising homemade prawn paste nuggets and a generous sprinkling of shrimp roe atop the springy noodles.

Scallop & Kelp Congee 3.5/5

Among the different congees on the menu is the new Scallop & Kelp Congee ($12.80). The velvety-smooth congee is permeated with the briny flavours of Japanese kombu and scallops.

Crisp-fried Braised Duck Wing with Salt & Pepper 4.2/5

A delightful surprise is the Crisp-fried Braised Duck Wing with Salt & Pepper ($7.80). The well-flavoured braised duck wing is cloaked in a thin crispy coat and topped with fragrant deep-fried garlic, elevating the enjoyment.

Sauteed Fresh Abalone with Assorted Colourful Capsicum & Asparagus 3.5/5

Fresh abalone from China is added to the unassuming dish to complement the crunch of the asparagus, while the assorted capsicum provides colour and an extra layer of texture. The Sauteed Fresh Abalone with Assorted Colourful Capsicum & Asparagus ($26.80) is a wholesome dish, providing the needed greens for a complete and balanced meal.

Roasted Duck with Crispy Rice in Chef's Special Sauce $21.80

A highlight is the Roasted Duck with Crispy Rice in Chef's Special Sauce ($21.80). The duck was succulent with paper-thin crisp skin. A scrumptious delicacy further enhanced by Chef's specially concocted savoury sweet sauce.

Noted: This is an invited tasting.


Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen
The Clementi Mall
3155 Commonwealth Avenue West
#03-54
Singapore 129588
Tel: +65 66599215
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 930pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map].

Thai Paradise @ Clementi Ave 5 - New Thai Eatery In The West To Spice Up Your Meal

Thai Paradise is a new Thai eatery located at Clementi Ave 5 near the Clementi police station. Though it has limited seats, the standalone eatery offers an extensive menu ranging from one meal dishes to cooked dishes for a family meal.

Basil Pork with Rice & Egg 4/5

As we were at Thai Paradise for lunch, we ordered the one meal dishes accompanied by several side items. First is the Basil Pork with Rice & Egg ($6.50). The pricing is very reasonable, with a decent portion for a meal dish. The flavours for the basil pork are on the spot, which goes very well with the steamed rice. I only hope that it can be spicier.

Beef Noodle 4/5

If you prefer noodles over rice, the Beef Noodle ($5.90) is a delicious consideration. The beef noodle comes in a robust and thick broth, accompanied by beef slices, beansprouts and beef balls. I usually add a bit of Thai chilli flakes to give it some extra kick, boosting the enjoyment.

Grilled Pork Cheek 3/5

Next, we have the Grilled Pork Cheek ($12), which looks like boiled pork instead of being grilled. It's tender and clean tasting. Best to have it with the accompanying Thai chilli sauce. However, I prefer it to be more grilled and charred for that smoky aroma.

Tom Yum Milk Red 4/5

You can go for either the clear or red for tom yum soup. I decided to go for the Tom Yum Milk Red ($7/$12/$18), creamy, spicy and brimming with seafood.

Pandan Chicken 4.5/5

A must-try is the Pandan Chicken ($8.90 for 4pc). The chicken is deep-fried to crispy on the outside yet tender and juicy inside. It even comes with a beautiful pandan and lemongrass aroma.

Mango Sticky Rice 4.2/5

Red Ruby 4.2/5

We had the Mango Sticky Rice ($5.90) and Red Ruby ($4), Wrapping up our lunch. These desserts are legit, using the freshest ingredients. They are not to be missed to complete a satisfying meal at Thai Paradise.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Thai Paradise
Blk 378 Clementi Ave 5
#01-338
Singapore 120378
Tel: +65 88877512
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1030am - 3pm, 5pm - 930pm
Sat-Sun: 1030am - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk along the sheltered walkway to Clementi Ave 5. Cross the road and walk to block 378. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Clementi MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk to Clementi Bus Interchange (Stop ID 17009). Take bus number 7 or 282. Alight 1 stop later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Mr Meepok @ Clementi West Street 2 - Local Bak Chor Mee With A Japanese Twist By Young Hawkers

Recently a new Bak Chor Mee stall - Mr Meepok opened in my hood at Clementi West Street 2. I noticed a couple of young men running the stall. The stall has five items on the menu - Signature Minced Meat Noodle, Daily Noodle, Mushroom Minced Meat Noodle, Handmade Fishball Noodle and Laksa

While queueing for my order, I noticed one of the staff was busy losing the noodles and weighting them into individual portions. It seems like everything is measured to perfection for the one noodle dish.

The stall is better known for its Japanese-influenced bak chor mee, such as the Signature Minced Meat Noodle and Daily Noodle. The signature minced meat noodles come with an onsen egg and other accompaniments such as meatballs, minced pork, abalone slice (mock) and braised mushroom. The daily noodle is Japanese-style maze soba using meepok, paired with onsen egg, chashu, seaweed, and minced meat..

Mushroom Minced Meat Noodle 4.2/5

Since this is my first time visiting the stall, I decided to play safe and go for the traditional Mushroom Minced Meat Noodle ($3.80). It's also a test of whether the stall gets its fundamental right. It did not disappoint. The noodles cooked to al dente have a delightful bite. The well-balanced mixture of chilli sauce and fragrant vinegar made each strand of noodles a slurping enjoyment.

As for the accompanying ingredients, they are probably from suppliers. They are decent but not fantastic. I even added $1 for 3 more fishballs. 

Overall, it is a good and above average bowl of bak chor mee. The texture of the noodles is a stand out tossed in a delicious concoction of chilli sauce and vinegar. It is worth a miss if you are in the neighbourhood. I will be back to try its Japanese influenced bak chor mee.


Mr Meepok
Blk 727 Clementi West Street 2
#01-1294
Singapore 120727
Tel: +65 87791844
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 7am - 2pm, 5pm - 945pm
Sat-Sun: 7am - 3pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17179). Take bus number 201. Alight 2 stops later. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Ah Ma Chi Mian (阿嬤吃麵) @ Clementi - A Bowl Of Satisfying Bak Chor Mee From The Founder’s Grandmother Recipe

Starting with their first stall at Hougang, Ah Ma Chi Mian (阿嬤吃麵) has expanded aggressively with 11 stalls around the island now. I visited their stall at Clementi Ave 3, located inside a coffeeshop near Clementi MRT station. 

Ah Ma Specialty Noodle 4/5

I had the Ah Ma Specialty Noodle ($5.50) with al dente noodles, abalone slices and ikan bilis. It is served together with a bowl of soup with pork slices and pig's liver. Though I find the chilli lacking the spicy kick, I enjoyed the noodle texture. The addition of crunchy ikan bilis accentuated the enjoyment.

As for the bowl of soup, it was tasty, but the pig's liver texture is no way near the best I have eaten. My best for pig's liver is still reserved for Mui Song Minced Meat Noodles.

Signature Scallop Dry Mee Sua 4/5

My partner, on the other hand, had the Signature Scallop Dry Mee Sua ($6.80) that comes with scallop, abalone slices and meatball. It also comes in a bowl of soup with pig's liver and pork slices.

Overall, I find it a decent bowl of hearty and comforting noodles. I can't say it is the best, but it is satisfying.


Ah Ma Chi Mian (阿嬤吃麵)
Blk 450 Clementi Ave 3
#01-271
Singapore 120450
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 730am - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit D. Turn right at block 450. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map].