After my visit to MODU last year, I returned to try a new menu item — the Nokdu Samgyetang. It was pleasant to see that the restaurant still draws a long queue of diners eager to savour its comforting ginseng chicken soup. Just like our previous visit, we opted for the 2 Pax Set ($98), which includes an appetiser, a shareable dish, two choices of Samgyetang, and a shared dessert. The set offers a well-rounded sampling of MODU’s offerings while allowing diners to explore the variety of Samgyetang broths available.
HwangTaeChae 5/5
The meal began with HwangTaeChae, a savoury and crisp snack made from dried pollock strips. It reminded me of dried sole fish, but with a sweeter and more umami-laden profile. Light, crunchy and incredibly addictive, it was difficult to stop reaching for more even before the main dishes arrived.
Minari Pancake 4.2/5
For our shareable dish, we went with the Minari Pancake, a unique take on the classic Korean pajeon. The minari (Korean watercress) lends the pancake a bright, herbaceous note, while the addition of Bori shrimp enhances its umami depth. The pancake arrived with a crisp, golden exterior that added to the overall enjoyment, and dipping it into the accompanying special sauce further amplified the flavours.
Nokdu Samgyetang 4.2/5
MODU offers six variations of Samgyetang, and for our first choice, I decided on the Nokdu Samgyetang, a new flavour on the menu. This lighter and revitalising interpretation of Korea’s iconic ginseng chicken soup features mung beans (nokdu) simmered with traditional ingredients. The result is a cleaner, lighter herbal broth that still retains the nourishing qualities the dish is known for. The mung beans impart a gentle nuttiness and natural thickness to the soup, making it comforting yet not overly heavy — perfect for those seeking something wholesome and balanced.
Perilla Seed Samgyetang 4.5/5
We also tried the Perilla Seed Samgyetang, another distinctive variation that stood out for its rich, nutty depth. Ground perilla seeds enrich the broth with a creamy texture and aromatic fragrance that coats the palate beautifully. Compared to the Nokdu version, this felt more robust and hearty, with the perilla lending an earthy, slightly toasted flavour that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken and herbal broth.
GotGam Mari 4/5
To wrap up the meal, we were served GotGam Mari, a dried persimmon stuffed with cream cheese and walnuts. The dehydration intensifies the persimmon’s natural sweetness, giving it a luscious, chewy texture. The creamy cheese filling adds a slightly tangy contrast, while the walnuts provide a pleasant crunch, rounding off the meal on a sweet and satisfying note.
Overall, the return visit to MODU reaffirmed why the restaurant continues to draw crowds for its comforting Korean ginseng chicken soup. The 2 Pax Set offers a satisfying and well-balanced way to experience the menu, from the addictive HwangTaeChae to the flavourful Minari Pancake. Among the Samgyetang selections, the Nokdu version impressed with its lighter, more wholesome profile, while the Perilla Seed Samgyetang delivered richer, nuttier depth for those who prefer a heartier broth. Rounded off with the delightful GotGam Mari dessert, the meal showcased MODU’s thoughtful approach to traditional flavours with distinctive variations. For anyone craving nourishing Korean comfort food, MODU remains a worthwhile destination.
Note: This is an invited tasting.
MODU Samgyetang Specialty
Mandarin Gallery
333A Orchard Road
#02-37
Singapore 238897
Tel: +65 8035 8833
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun, PH eve & PH: 1130am - 11pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]
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