Wenzhou Maison @ Tanjong Pagar Road - First Jiangsu-Zhejiang Fine-Dining Restaurant in Singapore Dedicated to Wenzhou Cuisine

A new expression of refinement arrives at Wenzhou Mansion, Singapore's first and only Jiangsu-Zhejiang fine dining restaurant dedicated exclusively to Wenzhou cuisine. Opened in Tanjong Pagar in August 2025, the establishment presents the culinary traditions of Wenzhou through time-honoured intangible heritage techniques and the natural flavours of East China Sea seafood. Wenzhou cuisine is one of the four major schools of Jiangzhe cuisine, itself recognised as one of China's eight great culinary traditions. Wenzhou Mansion is guided by Mr Li Chuhua, an officially recognised Intangible Cultural Heritage inheritor of Wenzhou cuisine. Drawing on decades of experience, he curates the menu around experience-driven techniques, from handling live seafood to home-style braising and lightly fermented preparations.

Sliced Wenzhou Kailan 温州芥兰片 4.2/5

We began with a series of cold appetisers, starting with the Sliced Wenzhou Kailan ($28). At first glance, the dish resembles cucumber slices, but it is actually crafted from the Kailan stem. Lightly pickled in a sweet-and-sour marinade, the stems offer a crisp bite with a bright, balanced tang that is both refreshing and moreish.

Shredded Chicken with Jellyfish 海蜇手撕鸡 4.2/5

The Shredded Chicken with Jellyfish ($68) features tender shredded chicken paired with jellyfish for a lovely textural contrast. High in protein and low in fat, the dish reflects the harmony of coastal food culture, where land and sea ingredients meet. This dish is notably light and refreshing.

Coriander with Sakura Shrimp 樱花虾皮拌香菜 4/5

In the Coriander with Sakura Shrimp ($25), sweet, crisp sakura shrimp are combined with aromatic notes of coriander. This clean, thoughtfully composed dish is designed to reset the palate, though it may be an acquired taste for those who do not enjoy coriander.

Raw Marinated Wenzhou Swimming Crab 温州江蟹生 4.5/5

A signature of Wenzhou-style raw marination, the Raw Marinated Wenzhou Swimming Crab ($128/portion) features live swimming crab prepared with traditional techniques. Often praised as the "ice cream of the sea," the flesh is delicately tender and refreshingly chilled. Cured in an in-house blend of sauces and spices, this is a highly appetising alternative to Teochew or Korean raw crab versions.

Duck Tongue & Fish Cake Platter 温州鸭舌拼鱼饼 3.5/5

The Duck Tongue & Fish Cake Platter ($58) offers two traditional staples. The Fish Cake, made from minced East China Sea fish and pork fat, is steamed to a springy, savoury finish. The Duck Tongues are braised and then sun-dried, offering a rich soy-braised aroma. In the Wenzhou dialect, "duck tongue" sounds like a phrase meaning "to earn and prosper," making it a popular auspicious starter at banquets.

Wenzhou Fish Ball & Pork Wonton Soup 温州鱼丸肉燕汤 分位 4/5

The Wenzhou Fish Ball & Pork Wonton Soup (from $35) showcases culinary craftsmanship through a traditional pounding technique. The springy bite of the fish balls contrasts beautifully with the smooth, slightly crisp pork dumplings. The texture of the pork dumplings reminded me of local fish skin dumplings (魚皮餃).

Large East China Sea Yellow Croaker with Scallion Oil 葱油东海特大黄鱼 4/5

The Large East China Sea Yellow Croaker with Scallion Oil ($158 for regular / $398 for large) features an ingredient revered as the "gold of the sea". Prized for its garlic-clove–shaped flesh, the fish is lightly steamed to preserve its silken texture. It is finished with fragrant scallion oil, bloomed in hot oil to draw out its inherent sweetness.

Home-style Braised Mantis Shrimp with Shredded Radish 家烧虾姑萝卜丝 4.2/5

The Home-style Braised Mantis Shrimp with Shredded Radish (Seasonal Price) is a comforting dish brimming with everyday warmth. The highlight is the delicious, addictive sauce, best absorbed by the shredded radish.

Steamed Roe Crab with Minced Pork and Pumpkin 南瓜肉饼蒸青膏蟹 4/5

The Steamed Roe Crab with Minced Pork and Pumpkin ($378) is served with claypot rice. As it steams, the seafood juices meld with the rich savouriness of Iberico pork, infusing the soft pumpkin below with layered, harmonious flavour.

Crispy Baby Roasted Duck with Peppercorn 大红袍花椒小乳鸭 4.5/5

A standout was the Crispy Baby Roasted Duck with Peppercorn ($98). It is unique to see duck prepared in a roasted pigeon style, a technique I haven't encountered in other Chinese restaurants in Singapore. Crispy on the outside and juicy within, it carries the aromatic, gentle numbing heat of Da Hong Pao peppercorns.

Stir-Fried Beef with Wild Chinese Chives 沙葱炒牛肉 4.2/5

In the Stir-Fried Beef with Wild Chinese Chives ($78), wild sand scallions from the Gobi Desert are wok-fired at high heat with tender beef. The result is a fragrant harmony of crisp and succulent textures.

Pea Shoots with Seaweed in Superior Broth 紫菜上汤豌豆苗 4.5/5

The Pea Shoots with Seaweed in Superior Broth ($38) is a delicate vegetarian "double fresh" dish. The silky, briny seaweed pairs perfectly with the springtime sweetness of the crisp pea shoots.

Wenzhou Stir-fried Rice Noodles 温州炒粉干 4/5

The Wenzhou Stir-fried Rice Noodles ($28 Small / $48 Large) are soft and supple with a gentle chew. The rice vermicelli effectively absorbs the aromas of the accompanying ingredients, resulting in a deeply savoury finish.

Glutinous Rice Balls with Water Chestnut Dessert 汤圆马蹄爽 4.2/5

To end, the Glutinous Rice Balls with Water Chestnut Dessert ($12 per serving) offers a refreshing sweetness. The crisp water chestnuts balance the rich, chewy dumplings, leaving a light, springy finish on the palate.

Overall, Wenzhou Mansion offers a rare and refined look at a heritage cuisine seldom seen in such detail in Singapore. The focus on seafood freshness and intangible cultural techniques makes it a must-visit for lovers of regional Chinese fare.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Wenzhou Maison
60, 62, 64 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088481
Tel: +65 9697 1668
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Turn left onto Duxton Hill towards Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn right onto Tanjong Pagar Road and walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road. Turn right and walk to the destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Shabestan @ Robertson Quay - Authentic Persian Flavours by the Scenic Riverside

Shabestan is a multi-award-winning Persian restaurant located in Singapore's Robertson Quay, celebrated for its authentic cuisine, warm hospitality, and scenic riverside setting. Since its establishment in 2013, the restaurant has aimed to bring the rich, traditional flavours of Persia to a modern audience, becoming a popular destination for both locals and international visitors seeking a refined Middle Eastern dining experience.

Hummus 3.8/5

The Hummus ($16) is made from freshly cooked chickpeas blended with lemon juice, garlic, tahini, and olive oil. It was somewhat puzzling for me as the Hummus was served chilled, whereas I am accustomed to it being served at room temperature. Despite the temperature, the texture remained smooth and the flavours well-balanced.

Persian Bread 4/5

To accompany the dip, we had the Persian Bread, which is freshly baked and noticeably thinner than traditional naan. Though thin, it has a wonderful, chewy, and fluffy texture with a delightful bite. It serves as the perfect vessel for scooping up the creamy Hummus.

Shirazi Salad 4.2/5

For a refreshing start, the Shirazi Salad ($16) is an excellent choice. It features finely chopped cucumber, tomato, and onion tossed in Shabestan's signature Shirazi dressing. The salad is light and fresh, with the crisp cucumber providing a refreshing crunch in every mouthful.

Shandiz 4/5

The Shandiz Kebab ($57) features tender chunks of spring lamb on the bone, charcoal-grilled to perfection. The lamb chops were well-marinated and succulent, boasting a beautiful char on the edges while remaining tender inside. Like all kebab dishes here, it is served with rice and a side salad. We opted for a mix of fragrant Basmati and Saffron rice, which offered a good textural bite.

Prawn Kebab 4/5

Another standout was the Prawn Kebab ($43), consisting of huge, de-shelled tiger prawns marinated in saffron and charcoal-grilled until crunchy and juicy. These were drizzled with a homemade seafood sauce that enhanced their natural sweetness. For this dish, we were served Dill rice, which imparted a lovely herby aroma. A pro-tip shared by the staff: dice up the grilled tomato and mix it into the rice for an extra layer of depth and flavour.

Overall, Shabestan delivers a solid Persian dining experience with high-quality ingredients and traditional grilling techniques that truly shine in their kebab selection.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shabestan
The Pier at Robertson
80 Mohamed Sultan Road
#01-13
Singapore 239013
Tel: +65 9397 6562
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk straight towards the river. Turn right at the river. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]