Chen Mapo Tofu @ Star Vista - Michelin Bib Gourmand Eatery Chen’s Mapo Tofu Opens 2nd Outlet

Chen's Mapo Tofu, the affordable sister concept of Chen Kentaro's two-Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant Shisen Hanten opens its second outlet at Star Vista in the West. Chen's Mapo Tofu, with its first outlet at OUE Downtown Gallery, is known for its fuss-free dining option offering a unique fusion of Szechuan cuisine with Japanese influences.

Spicy Szechwan Dumpling 3/5, Szechwan Popcorn Chicken 4/5, Banbanji Chicken 4/5

Before moving to the mains, I started with some sides to whet up the appetite. I tried their Spicy Szechwan Dumpling ($5), Szechwan Popcorn Chicken ($5), and Banbanji Chicken ($4). I enjoyed the Szechwan Popcorn Chicken for its addictive crispiness and Banbanji Chicken for the delectable peanut sauce. As for the Szechwan Dumpling, I felt the sauce is not fragrant enough.

Mapo Don 4.5/5

One of Chef Chen Kentaro signature dishes at his two-Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant Shisen Hanten is his mapo tofu. It is great to know that you can savour the same recipe in the Mapo Don ($10.80) at Chen's Mapo Tofu. I like the mapo tofu here for the Dou Ban Jiang (broad bean paste) sauce packed with depth, coupled with minced meat in the sauce. It enlivens the whole enjoyment.

Dan Dan Mien 4.2/5

I had the dry version of the Dan Dan Mien when I visited the OUE Downtown Gallery outlet. I didn't enjoy it back then. However, I enjoyed the soup version of the Dan Dan Mien ($11.80). The sweet and nutty peanut sauce complement the noodle excellently for a slurping good time.

Diners can also go for the Signature Combo ($14), which you get to try both the mapo don and dan dan mien but half portion.

Kurozu Buta Don 4.2/5

A new dish on the menu is the Kurozu Buta Don ($15.30). The kurozu vinegar pork is crispy and chunky served on top steaming, fragrant rice with green and red capsicum.

Kaisen Katayaki 4/5

Another new item on the menu is the Kaisen Katayaki ($15.50). It will be familiar to Singapore palate, similar to the local zichar crispy noodle dish. Chen's Mapo Tofu's version comprises stir-fried seafood and vegetables with a rich gravy on crispy fried noodles. 

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chen's Mapo Tofu 
Star Vista
1 Vista Exchange Green
#02-08
Singapore 138617
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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