Ministry of Crab, proudly featured on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list from 2015 to 2022, has finally opened its doors in Dempsey, Singapore. Founded by celebrated chef Dharshan Munidasa, the Sri Lankan institution is famed for its pristine seafood, particularly the legendary Sri Lankan mud crabs and freshwater prawns, airflown daily and prepared with a clever blend of Japanese, Sri Lankan and Mediterranean influences.
Pure Crab 4.5/5
Our dinner begins with the Pure Crab ($98, Small up to 700g) – arguably the purest way to savour the sweetness of Sri Lankan mud crab. Steamed and then chilled, the crab’s delicate flavours shine through. Served with warm butter, homemade calamansi ponzu and chilli vinegar, the condiments enhance without overshadowing. The style reminds me of our very own Teochew cold crab, but elevated.
Crab Liver Pate 4.2/5
The Crab Liver Pate ($25) is a unique indulgence. The creamy pate, made from crab liver, is rich and umami-packed, perfect to spread on toasted bread. For balance, a drizzle of Kithul Treacle (palm sugar syrup) brings a smoky sweetness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Kani Tama 4.8/5
A new creation, the Kani Tama is a revelation. Crab roe is gently cooked with Japanese egg and served in its shell, accompanied by rice or bread cushions (we chose the latter). Mixing it all together and dipping the bread cushions reminded us of Singapore’s kaya toast with soft-boiled egg – comforting yet luxurious. Each bite bursts with umami, and a touch of housemade chicken rice chilli sauce or hot sauce takes it to another level.
Garlic Chilli Prawn with Garlic Bread 5/5
The Garlic Chilli Prawn ($45 Regular, 200-250g) completely wowed us. The sauce was so addictive that we had the Garlic Bread ($7) to mop up every last drop. This is a must-try.
Black Pepper Dashi Crab 4.8/5
The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the Black Pepper Dashi Crab ($208-$248, Colossal). Sri Lanka's black pepper has long been revered as the "king of spice," and here it is married with the Japanese culinary philosophy of dashi. Hand-crushed pepper, ground on the traditional Miris Gala stone, gives the sauce its bold, aromatic punch. The result? A refined, deeply flavourful rendition that surpasses even our local black pepper crab.
Shibuya Style French Toast 4/5
The Shibuya Style French Toast ($18) is a decadent end to the savoury courses. Made with a thick slice of Sri Lankan street bread, it’s soft, spongy and indulgent, paired with whipped cream, strawberries and palm sugar syrup for balance.
Coconut Creme Brulee 4.2/5
For dessert, the Coconut Creme Brulee ($15) offers a tropical twist on a classic. Served in a fresh coconut, the custard made with rich coconut milk is silky and smooth, topped with a caramelised sugar crust torched at the table – a lovely, theatrical finish.
In collaboration with Ministry of Crab, make your reservation with the restaurant HERE and enjoy a complimentary Coconut Creme Brulee when you show this blog post to the staff.
Note: This is an invited tasting.
Ministry of Crab
Blk 6 Dempsey Road
Singapore 249683
Tel: +65 8389 0948
Website
Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to dempsey road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes.[Map]
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