For the first time, Man Fu Yuan at InterContinental Singapore will present one of China's most elaborate culinary traditions — the Manchu-Han Imperial Feast (满汉全席) — in Singapore this November, on 8 and 9 November 2025. The hotel's Executive Chinese Chef, Aaron Tan, the first Singaporean formally trained in this historic art, will lead the experience alongside his mentor, Master Chef Qi Jinzhu. Together, they will present a rare interpretation of the legendary banquet.
Originating in the 17th century, the Manchu-Han Imperial Feast is considered one of the grandest banquets in Chinese history — once reserved exclusively for emperors and state occasions, with over 100 elaborate dishes served over several days. This marks the first time the feast will be authentically realised in Singapore, offering diners an unprecedented taste of both Manchu and Han culinary traditions.
Master Chef Qi is a direct culinary descendant of the Qing Dynasty's court chefs, having trained under Tang Keming, the last imperial chef of the Qing court. With more than five decades dedicated to preserving original recipes and techniques, his credentials lend an unmatched authenticity to the feast. Unlike past attempts in Hong Kong or Singapore, this is the first time a formally recognised disciple of Master Chef Qi is presenting the banquet. Chef Aaron himself is among the very few globally to have earned this honour, after an intensive selection process and training.
We were given a preview of the upcoming five-hour banquet (5.30pm to 10.30pm), priced at $588++ per pax. Reservations can be made at singapore.intercontinental.com/manhan
The meal begins ceremoniously with Premium Puer Tea with Chrysanthemum, followed by an assortment of dry nuts, dried fruits, fresh fruits, snacks, and pickles — already an impressive spread of 20 items just in the second course.
Cold Appetiser: Braised Items
A quartet of braised appetisers featuring Braised Duck Gizzard, Beef Shank, Wasabi Pork Tripe Slices, and Fragrance Flower Mushroom sets the tone with contrasting textures and flavours.
Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Fish Mousse, Chinese Ham and White Fungus
This luxurious Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Fish Mousse, Chinese Ham and White Fungus balances richness and delicacy, with the savoury depth of Chinese ham complementing the prized bird's nest. The silky fish mousse was the highlight — unexpectedly soft, almost custard-like in texture.
Premium Dried Australia Abalone with Dried Grouper Skin
The Premium Dried Australia Abalone with Dried Grouper Skin showcases finesse and control. The premium Xu Rong abalone was braised to tenderness in a fragrant stock, paired with nearly two metres of dried grouper skin that imparted deep umami.
Braised Deer Trotter
The Braised Deer Trotter is presented elegantly in a Chinese Bagua (八卦). The deer trotter was braised until tender, accompanied by sweet melon and tofu for a balanced flavour.
Bear Paw with Broccoli (Imitation Bear Paw)
Recreating a once-forbidden delicacy, The Bear Paw with Broccoli is an imitation. The "bear paw" was crafted using pig skin, minced pork and beef tendon, wrapped and simmered gently to mimic the gelatinous texture and flavour of the original. A fascinating homage.
Stir-fried Seasonal Vegetables with Wild Mushroom and Fungus
Stir-fried Shredded Pork Loin with Green Pepper
A lighter interlude featured Stir-fried Seasonal Vegetables with Wild Mushroom and Fungus and Stir-fried Shredded Pork Loin with Green Pepper — simple yet showcasing the beauty of seasonal produce and wok hei.
Steamed Pork and Radish Dumplings
Grilled Shredded Prata
The Steamed Pork and Radish Dumpling, shaped like a golden ingot, was plump and juicy, while the Grilled Shredded Prata offered a crisp, savoury bite.
Baby Spinach with Tofu and Rice
The banquet concluded with the comforting Baby Spinach with Tofu and Rice, before a final cup of Cantonese tea to cleanse the palate.
This preview was just a glimpse of the grand scale to come. The full Manchu-Han Imperial Feast promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. From imperial delicacies to homely comforts, the banquet spans centuries of Chinese culinary heritage, meticulously preserved and reinterpreted for Singapore diners.
Note: This is an invited tasting
Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]
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