Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) @ Punggol Coast Mall - New Outlet, 3 Exciting New Dished and Exclusive Merchandise

The iconic Taiwanese restaurant Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐), beloved for its artfully handmade Xiao Long Bao, has opened a brand-new outlet at Punggol Coast Mall. To mark this occasion, Din Tai Fung has unveiled three brand-new dishes, now available at all outlets across Singapore. Available for dine-in, takeaway and delivery via Deliveroo, Foodpanda and GrabFood.

Adding an extra touch of excitement, the Punggol Coast branch is the first in Singapore to carry Din Tai Fung's exclusive retail merchandise, specially imported from Taiwan. Fans can now bring home charming collectables like the Din Tai Fung Chopsticks 平安筷, Mascot Plush Toys 包仔娃娃, Enamel Pins 微章 and more, perfect for gifting or as a souvenir for loyal diners.

Noodle with Crispy Wanton in Spicy Sauce 3/5

The new Noodle with Crispy Wanton in Spicy Sauce ($15.30) is tossed in a bold, spicy sauce and topped with crispy wantons. The noodles are springy and cooked to the ideal bite. However, we found the sauce to be a bit milder than expected, lacking the robust, aromatic heat that we had hoped for. The wantons add a textural crunch, but their petite size leaves more to be desired. It's a decent dish, but it could be more impactful in terms of flavour.

Black Sesame Mochi Xiao Long Bao 2.8/5

We were especially eager to try this dessert twist on Din Tai Fung's famous Xiao Long Bao. The Black Sesame Mochi Xiao Long Bao ($25.60 for 6 pc) is filled with fragrant, nutty black sesame and mochi. While the filling is aromatic and indulgent, the thick skin makes it rather challenging to chew. We recommend eating it immediately while piping hot, which helps slightly with texture, but be cautious as the filling can be scalding. It's a fun concept, but the execution didn't quite meet our expectations.

Steamed Chinese Style Layered Cake with Chocolate Dipping Sauce 3/5

This East-meets-West dessert combines a classic Chinese Steamed Layered Cake ($5.80/2pcs) with a side of Chocolate Dipping Sauce ($3, currently $2 from 1 May to 30 June). The cake itself has a unique texture, falling somewhere between a Chinese sponge cake and fluffy bread, with a subtle sweetness. When paired with the not-too-sweet chocolate sauce, it creates a comforting and unexpected fusion of flavours. It's a fun dessert to share, especially for those curious to try something different.

Oriental Salad 4/5

Pork Xiao Long Bao 3.8/5

Two staples we can't skip at Din Tai Fung are the Oriental Salad ($6) and Pork Xiao Long Bao ($12.80 for 10 pieces). The Oriental Salad is refreshing and crunchy, lightly tossed in a tangy sesame dressing that awakens the palate, always the perfect starter. As for the Pork Xiao Long Bao, it's what Din Tai Fung is famous for, with each dumpling meticulously pleated, filled with a juicy pork filling and a burst of flavourful broth. While the skin was slightly thicker than usual on our visit, it remains a comforting classic that satisfies every time.

Prawn Pancake 4/5

If you haven't tried the Prawn Pancake ($11.80), you're missing out. This crispy, golden delight is packed with chunky prawn paste and pan-fried to perfection. It's crunchy on the outside, succulent inside and incredibly addictive.

Shrimp Fried Rice 4/5

Pork Chop Fried Rice 4/5

Din Tai Fung's fried rice consistently meets your expectations, whether it's the Shrimp Fried Rice ($15) or the Pork Chop Fried Rice ($14.30); it never disappoints. Both versions feature fluffy, fragrant egg fried rice. The Shrimp Fried Rice is generously topped with fresh, bouncy shrimp, while the Pork Chop Fried Rice comes with a well-seasoned pork chop that's juicy and tender. Either option delivers on flavour and comfort, making them our top picks for a hearty main.

Located in the brand-new Punggol Coast Mall, this Din Tai Fung outlet offers a bright and spacious dining environment that’s perfect for a relaxing meal. Drop by whether you’re here to check out their newest dishes or stock up on adorable Din Tai Fung merch.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
Punggol Coast Mall
88 Punggol Way
#01-126/127
Singapore 829913
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Nearest MRT: Punggol Coast (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sun: 11am - 915pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Punggol Coast MRT station. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Big Wine Freaks @ Bukit Pasoh Road - Champagne and Wine Restaurant with Ingredient-forward Cuisine

Big Wine Freaks at Bukit Pasoh is a Champagne and wine restaurant with an outstanding wine selection that showcases labels from a new generation of star producers, natural wines from renowned French regions, and rare picks from unique micro-farms. Channelling the same electric energy as their Moscow origins, the space is brought to life by Sabrina Bignami and Alessandro Capellaro of B-Arch Architectural Bureau in Florence. It's an expressive blend of light, colour, and texture, a setting that speaks about the experience that they want to offer. Their ingredient-forward menu features a raw seafood bar, bite-sized starters, vegetables, and mains cooked over an open-fire grill.

Oysters 3.5/5

Daily from 5.30pm to 7pm is the time for Aperitivo ($58), which I believe is the best way to soak in the atmosphere of Big Wine Freaks. We were served a Cichetti Assortment comprising Oysters, Trout Gravlax, Parma Ham, Arancini, and Padron Peppers.

Parma Ham 4/5

Trout Gravlax 5/5

There was plenty to love about this assortment. It offered a satisfying balance of cold and hot starters and, more importantly, the rich mouthfeel and savouriness that pair beautifully with their wines and Champagne. Both the Parma Ham and Trout Gravlax stood out for their indulgent textures, especially the latter, with its tangy and mustardy toast and delicate ribbons of gravlax that paired perfectly with the glass of Gounel-Lassalle Esprit Voyager we had.

Padron Peppers 4.5/5

Arancini 4.5/5

The Arancini were well executed too. Encased in a crisp golden crust was a molten mixture of rice, mozzarella, and Jamon, made even more indulgent with the accompanying aioli. Rounding off the plate, the blistered Padron Peppers were juicy and vibrant, adding a fresh green bite that nicely balanced the lineup.

Octopus 3/5

The mains feature selections from the Josper Basque Grill. The Octopus ($58) was incredibly well cooked, with a texture and flavour that stood out as one of the better renditions I've had. Unfortunately, the dish was slightly let down by an oversprinkle of finishing salt.

Beef Short Rib 3/5

For the Beef Short Rib ($46), while the meat wasn't as tender as hoped, it made up for it with flavour. The caramelised, charred exterior imparted a depth and smokiness that was deeply satisfying.

Donut 4.5/5

Dessert was a pure joy. The fluffy Donuts, filled with berry jam and custard, were a delightful way to end the meal. While I would have preferred the custard to be a touch lighter, the overall experience was still indulgent and comforting.

There's also a noticeable attention to detail when it comes to presentation. Each dish is served on dinnerware by Ginori 1735, the renowned Florentine porcelain house now under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele. The wine-by-the-glass list is equally thoughtful, featuring over 40 rotating options that highlight fresh finds from their cellar. Every glass is served in exceptional stemware, featuring brands such as Zalto from Austria, Sydonios from France, and Kimura from Japan, which further elevates the overall experience.

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


Big Wine Freaks
44 Bukit Pasoh Road
Singapore 089857
Tel: +65 6019 0765
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 530pm till Late
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Turn right and walk down Teo Hong Road. Walk to Bukit Pasoh Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Im Jai by Pun Im @ Icon Village - A New Thai Casual Restaurant by Private Dining Chef Vincent from Pun Im

One of Singapore's most elusive private dining experiences, Pun Im by Vincent, has opened a new restaurant, Im Jai by Pun Im, located at Icon Village. Known for his bold, soulful Thai cooking, Vincent brings the best of his home dining menus to a broader audience, making his celebrated dishes finally accessible to those who couldn't snag a spot at his home table. Expect hearty, flavour-forward Thai fare that's deeply rooted in tradition but elevated with finesse.

Appetisers Platter 3.5/5

The Appetisers Platter ($10.80) offers a variety of bites perfect for sharing between one to two diners. The platter includes a juicy Moo Ping, two Tom Yum Crab Balls, three pieces of Crispy Pork Belly, and three fiery Popcorn Chicken Saap. While each element adds a unique dimension of flavour, the standout for us was the Popcorn Chicken Saap, which is crispy, addictive, and packs a spicy punch that lingers.

Salted Plum Soup with Chilli Paste Rice 4.5/5

This is not your average Thai soup. The Salted Plum Soup with Chilli Paste Rice ($18.80) is a bold, rustic dish seasoned solely with salted plums, allowing the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine. Inside the broth are tender pork ribs and soft bone cuts, which provide texture and richness. It's paired with a beautifully aromatic chilli paste rice, whose depth and fragrance elevate the entire experience. It's a dish that's both comforting and punchy and a true highlight on the menu.

Spicy and Sour Pork Ribs Soup with Thai Mirepoix Fried Rice 4.5/5

A signature dish that delivers layers of flavour, the Spicy and Sour Pork Ribs Soup with Thai Mirepoix Fried Rice ($18.80) is a knockout. The Issan-style soup is robust, sour, spicy, and deeply savoury, featuring pork ribs, soft bones, and tendon for an indulgent meaty bite. The pairing with fragrant, peppery Thai mirepoix fried rice balances the dish perfectly, making it both hearty and satisfying.

Claypot Vermicelli with Black Tiger Prawns 4.5/5

Served piping hot in a claypot, the Claypot Vermicelli with Black Tiger Prawns ($18.80) is full of wok hei and umami goodness. The glass noodles soak up a rich, peppery sauce and are topped with three large black tiger prawns and crunchy pork lard for extra indulgence. A dish that is both aromatic and comforting, this is Thai comfort food at its finest.

Red Ruby with Smoked Coconut Sorbet 4/5

To wrap up the meal, the Red Ruby with Smoked Coconut Sorbet ($7.80) brings a refreshing end. A textural dessert layered with crunchy red rubies, Thai sweet glass noodles, jackfruit, attap seed, and a jasmine-infused syrup, the star here is the smoked coconut sorbet, which adds an unexpected yet delightful smoky note to the sweet, floral profile. It is a modern twist on a Thai classic that cleanses the palate and leaves a lasting impression.

Im Jai by Pun Im bridges the exclusivity of private dining with the accessibility of a casual restaurant. With dishes that are both rustic and refined, Vincent's cooking remains unapologetically bold and full of character. For Thai food lovers seeking authentic yet inventive flavours, this is a dining spot worth checking out.


Im Jai by Pun Im
Icon Village
12 Gopeng Street
#01-78/81
Singapore 078877
Tel: +65 6518 3151
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 4pm - 930pm
(Closed on Sat & Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Peck Seah Street. Cross the road at the junction of Peck Seah Street and Gopeng Street. Walk to ICON village. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

1864 The Bar @ Sofitel Singapore City Centre - Sofitel x Sulwhasoo Launches a New Sulwhasoo Cafe Experience

Following the success of their previous ginseng-themed afternoon tea collaboration last year, Sofitel Singapore City Centre and Sulwhasoo have reunited to launch a new K-beauty and wellness-inspired pop-up café experience - the Sulwhasoo Café. Together, they invite guests to indulge in a journey of inner radiance and self-care.

Running from 17 May to 13 July 2025, the exclusive Sulwhasoo Café is open daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the hotel’s 1864 Lobby Lounge in Sofitel Singapore City Centre. This limited-time café concept blends the time-honoured principles of Korean holistic wellness with the refined techniques of French cuisine. Each dish draws inspiration from Sulwhasoo’s signature skincare range, with ingredients ranging from ginseng, collagen, jujube, Nashi pear, and mugwort.

The Sulwhasoo Café menu features eight dishes and two beverages, all available à la carte. However, for the best value, ordering a set menu is recommended. Guests can choose between a two-course menu ($45++), which includes a starter or dessert and a main course, or the three-course menu ($65++), which offers a complete experience with a starter, main course, and dessert.

To make the dining experience even more memorable, guests will receive complimentary Sulwhasoo beauty kits with qualifying spends:

· A three-piece Daily Routine Kit (worth $60) with a minimum spend of $40++.
· A four-piece Anti-Aging Kit (worth $110) when ordering the three-course set menu at $65++.

These gifts are available while stocks last, and qualifying spend applies only to items ordered from the Sulwhasoo Café menu.

Tuna Hwe 4.2/5

For starters, guests have the choice between two hot options and a cold option:

The beautifully plated Tuna Hwe ($28) features chopped tuna tossed in a spicy calamansi chojang, topped with a silky egg yolk gel, and complemented by perilla, sesame, and pine nuts. Crisp rice wafers accompany the dish, allowing diners to scoop the tuna on top for an added layer of texture.

Black Sesame & Ginseng Samyetang Pao Fan 4/5

The Black Sesame & Ginseng Samgyetang Pao Fan ($26) is a reimagined version of the traditional ginseng chicken soup. It's served pao fan-style, with a warm chicken collagen broth poured over a comforting bed of tender chicken slices, rice puffs, and leeks. It's easy to drink, very gentle and clean-tasting, although I prefer a more flavourful broth.

Creamy Kimchi with Tteok 4.5/5

My favourite starter of the three was the Creamy Kimchi with Tteok ($24), which takes its cue from Korean budae jjigae (army stew) but cleverly uses a zucchini stew base with gochujang to offer a vegetarian option for guests. Topped with a slow-cooked egg and parmesan and featuring crispy, chewy tteokbokki (rice cakes), the dish tastes more like a Korean interpretation of shakshuka. Very delicious and hearty

Doenjang Chicken with Yeonnibap 4.2/5

Moving on to the main courses, there are also three options on the menu: Doenjang Chicken with Yeonnibap, Blackened Salmon with Clam Doenjang, and a vegetarian Naengmyeon.

The Doenjang Chicken with Yeonnibap ($34) features tender slices of chicken marinated in fermented soybean paste. Accompanying the chicken is glutinous rice mixed with a medley of ginkgo nuts, adzuki beans, jujube, and pumpkin seeds, adding to its nutritional value and taste. The rice is aromatic and subtly sweet. Slices of tamagoyaki-style omelette round off this tasty dish.

Blackened Salmon with Clam Doenjang 4.5/5

The Blackened Salmon with Clam Doenjang ($38) is really good and is my favourite main course dish. The salmon flesh is moist and flaky, bathed in a beurre noisette, and it is accompanied by clams, sauteed daikon, and capers. It is a well-balanced and delicious combination.

Naengmyeon 3.8/5

The Naengmyeon ($30) features buckwheat noodles immersed in a chilled black goji berry broth, which lends the soup a vibrant purple hue. Toppings include slices of Nashi pear, purple cabbage, and a boiled egg. The broth is quite refreshing, and the noodles are nice and chewy. However, I must admit that cold noodles have never been my favourite food as I'll always prefer noodles in hot soup. Hence, this dish may appeal more to those who appreciate this Korean speciality.

Insam and Cointreau Gâteaux 4.2/5

For dessert, diners can choose between two elegant creations.

The first is an Insam and Cointreau Gâteaux ($22), a decadent treat made with dark chocolate subtly infused with Cointreau and mandarin orange gel and finished with ginseng (insam) dusting. Rich, bittersweet, and slightly citrusy, this dessert is a lovely choice for chocolate lovers.

Peach Collagen Consommé 4.2/5

The second option is an equally good Peach Collagen Consommé ($19), a nourishing bowl packed with wholesome, traditional ingredients. It features soft poached peach, peach gum, and white fungus, all steeped in a subtly sweet consommé. On the side, jujube walnuts add some crunch. This dessert will particularly appeal to those who enjoy light, healthy, and heritage-inspired sweets. While it’s served chilled by default, diners can also request it to be served warm.

There are also two interesting drink options: the cold Ssukcha Mango Fizz ($9) made with mugwort tea, mango, and tonic, and their take on the viral Korean classic of hot Dalgona Coffee ($9) with milk and whipped coffee foam.

Whether you're a skincare enthusiast, a fan of Korean cuisine, or someone looking for a unique dining experience, this limited-time pop-up is a fun option. The dishes show care in both presentation and ingredient pairing and will be especially enjoyable for those who enjoy lighter, health-focused flavours with a creative twist. With the added perk of receiving Sulwhasoo beauty kits with your meal, there's now even more reason to treat yourself!

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


1864
Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Fifth Floor
9 Wallich Street
Singapore 078885
Tel: +65 6428 5000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
High Tea: 2pm - 5pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right on Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Casa Vostra @ Raffles City - New Menu Highlights at Popular Italian Casual Restaurant Featuring Mamma’s Aglio e Olio, Beef Cheek Pappardelle and More

Casa Vostra, a bustling Italian eatery prominently located at the entrance of Raffles City, has been drawing crowds since its debut.

Known for its hearty Italian cuisine crafted by Chef Antonio Miscellaneo, the restaurant has now introduced several new dishes spanning antipasti to dessert, offering fresh flavours for diners to explore.

Baked Scamorza 4.2/5

Cheese enthusiasts should look out for the Baked Scamorza ($6), a sharing starter that highlights a sweet and salty combination that is hard to dislike. The savoury cheese is enhanced by a touch of herbs and a drizzle of honey, making it an addictive opener. You must make sure to dig into this while it’s hot.

Flan di Zucca 4/5

The Flan di Zucca ($12), or pumpkin flan, turned out to be a pleasant surprise. This dish combined roasted pumpkin with a creamy parmigiano reggiano fondue, topped with salt-cured guanciale and extra virgin olive oil. It was well-balanced.

Mamma’s Aglio e Olio 4/5

Chef Antonio's Mamma's Aglio e Olio ($15) pays homage to his mother's recipe, featuring a comforting blend of olive oil, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. The dish is milder in its garlicky profile but carries a subtle depth of flavour. The handmade pasta is unique in texture, which we found slightly reminiscent of Japanese ramen.

Sausage, Parpadelle 3/5

The Sausage Pappardelle ($20), featuring a pork sausage ragu in a sofritto base and topped with parmigiano reggiano, fell short of our expectations. While hearty, the dish could benefit from bolder and more robust flavours. That aside, the parpadelle’s texture was done well.

Pesto Pizza 4.2/5

We moved on to Casa Vostra's signature handmade pizza, opting for the Pesto Pizza ($23). We saw mixed reviews on the pizzas before this, but ours arrived with an airy and bubbly crust. The soft, chewy base is topped with basil pesto, roasted yellow tomatoes, stracciatella, Parmigiano Reggiano, and a sprinkling of pine nuts. The flavour combination was fresh and satisfying.

Tiramisu 3.5/5

For dessert, we were served with their non-alcoholic Tiramisu ($13) made with mascarpone, savoiardi soaked in decaffeinated coffee and cocoa powder.

We enjoyed our dinner during this visit, but would recommend dropping by during the non-peak hours to avoid the snaking queue.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Casa Vostra
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#01-49/50/51
Singapore 179103
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Operating Hours:
Daily: 1130am to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 2 minutes. [Map]