YeYak Korean Restaurant @ Neil Road - Native Korean Chef with Receipes Rooted in Tradition From Her Grandmother

YeYak, which means “reservation” in Korean, has relocated from Keppel Road to Neil Road, where it has been quietly building a following over the past year. The kitchen is helmed by a native Korean chef, while the front-of-house is managed by her Singaporean husband. Together, bringing a warm, personal touch to the dining experience. Many of the recipes are rooted in tradition, passed down from her grandmother.

The complimentary banchan here comes in three varieties - kimchi, cucumber and potato salad, served free-flow. A pleasant surprise is the japchae, which is served once at no additional charge, unlike many other restaurants. Fragrant with sesame oil, it’s incredibly moreish and hard to stop at just one serving.

Braised Short Ribs LA Galbi 4.8/5

We were recommended the LULA Set ($160), ideal for 3–4 diners. A highlight of the set is the Braised Short Ribs LA Galbi, featuring exceptionally tender beef slow-cooked for nearly 48 hours. The tteokbokki, soaked in the rich, slightly sweet broth, complements the dish beautifully. Interestingly, their version uses miltteok (flour-based rice cakes) instead of the usual rice variety, resulting in a softer, less chewy texture.

Original Spicy Stir-Fried Dakgalbi 3.8/5

Also included in the set is the Original Spicy Stir-Fried Dakgalbi, served bubbling hot with a generous mix of ingredients, including tteokbokki, cabbage, carrots, onions, and tender chicken pieces. The spice level is fairly mild, which is approachable for most, but we found ourselves wishing for a bit more heat and depth. It pairs well with rice, though a bolder flavour profile would further elevate the dish.

Deep Fried Pork Belly 5/5

The Deep Fried Pork Belly is a standout. Served with their signature “magic sauce,” garlic, marinated baby tomatoes, shiso leaves and lettuce wraps, it delivers on both texture and flavour. The pork is crisp on the outside, juicy within and notably free of any unpleasant porky aftertaste. That is such a detail we truly appreciated. Paired with the sauce, this dish is incredibly satisfying and easily one of our favourites.

Bacon Corn Cheese Pancake 4/5

The final item in the set is the Bacon Corn Cheese Pancake, generously layered with melted cheese. While it leans more indulgent than traditional, it’s a must-try for cheese lovers. The sweetness of the corn helps balance the richness of the cheese and bacon. For the best experience, enjoy it hot while the cheese is still perfectly melted.

YeYak Fish Cake Soup 4/5

We also added the YeYak Fish Cake Soup ($18 for 4 sticks), charmingly served in a teapot. While the fish cakes themselves are familiar, it’s the broth that truly shines - light, comforting and especially welcome between heavier dishes. A spray bottle of homemade soy sauce is provided, allowing you to customise the flavour to your liking.

Soy Sauce Marinated Crab 4/5

Another add-on we tried was the Soy Sauce Marinated Crab ($32 for 1, $56 for 2, $72 for 3), served with rice topped with seaweed and spring onions. Unlike other versions that can be overly salty, the marinade here leans towards a balanced sweet-savoury profile, making it more approachable. That said, this dish remains an acquired taste and may not appeal to everyone.

Honey Makgeolli 4.5/5

Sunyang Soju 4.5/5

No Korean meal is complete without drinks. We tried the Honey Makgeolli ($35) and Sunyang Soju ($20), both of which impressed us. The makgeolli, served in a charming pot with a ladle, carries a subtle honeyed fragrance, while the soju is smooth and slightly sweet. Both pair wonderfully with the bold flavours of the dishes.

Looking through their à la carte menu, we appreciate the flexibility in portion sizes, which cater to different group sizes, including solo diners.

The space itself is thoughtfully designed, evoking the charm of traditional Korean hanok village homes with a modern touch. There are also floor seating options that offer a more authentic dining experience, and the walls are adorned with charming artwork by the chef-owner.

What stood out to us during our visit was learning that many of the sauces used across the dishes are made in-house by the chef herself, adding a deeply personal and authentic touch to the overall experience. There are also plans to retail these sauces in the future, which is something to look forward to.

YeYak delivers not just on food, but on atmosphere and storytelling. We will definitely be back.

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


YeYak Korean Restaurant
39 Neil Road
Singapore 088823
Tel: +65 88287770/ 88282011
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 2am

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Common Man Coffee Roasters @ Anchorpoint - Launches New Asian-inspired Menu Alongside a Refreshed Drinks Selection

Drawing inspiration from familiar regional flavours and comforting favourites, Common Man Coffee Roasters at Anchorpoint has introduced a new Asian-inspired menu alongside a refreshed drinks selection. The new offerings celebrate the vibrancy and boldness of regional flavours, incorporating influences from dishes such as butter chicken, laksa, curry and tom yum.

Crispy Duck Curry 3.8/5

Of the six new dishes, we tried the Crispy Duck Curry ($32) and Bulgogi Beef Bowl ($26). The Crispy Duck Curry came accompanied by their signature croissant, making for an especially indulgent pairing. The curry was thick, almost paste-like in consistency, deeply aromatic with spices and packed with a lingering heat. The buttery croissant proved perfect for soaking up every last bit of the rich curry. The duck delivered on its promise of crisp skin and succulent meat, though it was slightly let down by an overly heavy hand with the salt.

Bulgogi Beef Bowl 3.5/5

The Bulgogi Beef Bowl was a wholesome combination of mixed grains, fluffy omelette and a generous slab of beautifully charred beef. While the beef was flavourful and nicely grilled, some portions were a little too sinewy.

Citrus Cloud Cold Brew

For drinks, the Citrus Cloud Cold Brew ($9.50) featured a delicious layer of airy foam atop a cold brew infused with yuzu, lemon and calamansi. Refreshing and citrusy, it would be better with a stronger coffee presence and a touch less sweetness for better balance.

Miso Lucky

The Miso Lucky ($9) was a more successful, well-balanced concoction which combines iced white chocolate infused with savoury white miso and lightly sweetened with maple syrup, resulting in a creamy and nuanced beverage.

Common Man Coffee Roasters’ new menu brings familiar Asian flavours into a modern café setting. While there are a few areas that could be refined, the flavours are largely on point.

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


Common Man Coffee Roasters
Anchorpoint
368 Alexandra Road
#01-01
Singapore 159952
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Nearest MRT: Redhill (EW Line), Queenstown (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue: 730am - 5pm
Wed-Sun: 730am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Redhill MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road, walk to the bus stop opposite Redhill MRT (Stop ID 10201). Take bus number 33 or 120. Alight 4 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Queenstown MRT station. Take Exit B or C. Walk to the bus stop at Queenstown MRT station (Stop ID 11149). Take bus number 195. Alight 3 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

 

Seoul & So @ National Gallery - Brings Contemporary Korean BBQ to National Gallery Singapore with Value Lunch Sets

Seoul & So debuts at National Gallery Singapore, introducing a fresh Korean barbecue concept set within one of the city’s most iconic cultural spaces. Located on Level 5, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy grilled premium meats while overlooking the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery installations, blending art, architecture, and cuisine into a single immersive setting.

Created by the award-winning team behind Seoul Restaurant (Conrad Singapore Orchard), Seoul & So is the Rhee siblings’ modern take on Korean barbecue. While grounded in authentic Korean flavours and traditional techniques, the concept embraces a livelier, more contemporary approach, offering both à la carte dishes and curated tasting menus designed for sharing.

I visited on a weekday for lunch and was particularly drawn to their wallet-friendly 4-Course Lunch Sets. Priced at $45 for Set A (Beef) and $35 for Set B (Pork), each set comprises an Appetiser, Main, Post-Main, and Dessert. With two of us dining, we opted to try both sets for a more comprehensive experience.

The meal began with an assortment of Banchan, Korea’s signature side dishes. The spread offered a delightful variety of flavours and textures — from tangy pickles to savoury bites — thoughtfully prepared to complement the grilled meats that followed.

For the mains, Lunch Set A offers a choice between USDA Prime Short Ribs or Rib Fingers (Aus Wagyu 6/7), while Set B features Jeju Pork Belly or Iberico Pork Collar, each portion at 150g.

Rib Fingers (AUS Wagyu 6/7) 4/5

We had the Rib Fingers (Aus Wagyu 6/7), a premium cut sourced from between the rib bones. Known for its rich marbling and intense beefy flavour, this cut delivers a deeply satisfying bite. As it grills, the fat renders beautifully, creating a lightly charred exterior while keeping the interior juicy. The presence of natural tendons adds a slight chew, giving the meat a robust texture that enhances its overall appeal.

Jeju Pork Belly 4.2/5

The Jeju Pork Belly was equally noteworthy. Imported from Jeju Island, the cut stood out for its clean, natural sweetness and balanced fat content. Grilled to a gentle crisp on the outside, the pork retained a tender, juicy centre without feeling overly greasy. The rendered fat imparted a buttery richness that coated the palate, elevating each bite with a luxurious mouthfeel.

Mul Naengmyeon 4.2/5

For the Post-Main course, diners can choose from Kimchi Jjigae, Doenjang Jjigae, Mul Naengmyeon, or Naeng Kalguksu. We selected the Mul Naengmyeon and Kimchi Jjigae for contrast.

The Mul Naengmyeon was a refreshing interlude. Served in an icy, clear beef broth, the dish delivered a clean, subtly tangy flavour with a hint of sweetness. The buckwheat noodles were springy and pleasantly chewy, complemented by slices of cold beef, crisp cucumbers, and pickled radish. It was light, cooling, and especially satisfying after the richness of the barbecue.

In contrast, the Kimchi Jjigae offered a comforting depth of flavour. The stew leaned towards a balanced, hearty profile rather than an overly sour or fiery one. Well-aged kimchi had softened beautifully, infusing the broth with richness, while tender pork and silky tofu added substance to the dish.

The meal concluded with a simple dessert of ice cream paired with coffee or tea — a light and pleasant finish to the multi-course lunch.

Kimchi Jjigae 4/5

Seoul & So’s 4-Course Lunch Sets impress with both value and quality, making it an accessible way to enjoy premium Korean barbecue in a refined setting. Situated within the National Gallery, the restaurant offers more than just a meal — it delivers a dining experience that seamlessly weaves together culture, flavour, and contemporary flair.


Seoul & So
National Gallery
1 St. Andrew’s Road
#05-03
Singapore 178957
Tel: +65 64232807
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit D. Turn left and walk down North Bridge Road. Turn left onto Coleman Street. Walk down Coleman Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is around 5 minutes. [Map]

Permata @ Kampong Glam - Singapore's First-ever Nusantara Halal Buffet

Permata, located within the historic Gedung Kuning (Yellow Mansion) in Kampong Glam, Singapore’s first-ever Nusantara halal buffet showcases the diverse culinary heritage of the Malay Archipelago. Helmed by celebrity chef Mel Dean, the buffet presents innovative interpretations of traditional recipes, blending heritage with modern flair.

“Nusantara” is an old Javanese term referring to the interconnected islands of the Malay world. At Permata, diners can savour dishes inspired by six countries within the archipelago — Indonesia, Southern Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and East Timor. The menu changes every one to two months, and this June’s edition presents the vibrant flavours of Penang through a buffet spread of over 50 dishes.

Stir-Fried Chilli Mussels & Clams

Kari Telur

Sambal Udang

Daging Hitam Berempah

We dived straight into the hearty Warisan Pulau Pinang Station, which featured some of Penang’s most iconic Nasi Kandar accompaniments. Our plate was loaded with Stir-Fried Chilli Mussels & Clams, Sambal Udang, Kari Telur, Kari Ikan Mamak, Ayam Goreng Bawang, Daging Hitam Berempah, Okra and Stir-Fried Cabbage. The Ayam Goreng Bawang and Daging Hitam Berempah were particular standouts, both offering tender, succulent meat infused with robust spices and rich curry flavours.

One of the more interesting finds was the Nyonya Chang, a Peranakan glutinous rice dumpling shaped like a parcel, filled with blue pea flower-tinted rice. Within is a flavourful filling of braised chicken, mushrooms and aromatic spices.

Penang Char Koay Teow

Another Penang classic on offer was the Penang Char Koay Teow. While slightly different from the traditional rendition, it remained indulgent with prawns, egg, bean sprouts and chives. The stir-fried carrot cake was satisfying, generously studded with savoury egg throughout.

Assam Laksa

No Penang-themed spread would be complete without Assam Laksa, available at the DIY noodle station. Also featured was Mee Sotong Penang, inspired by the famous Hameed Pata Mee Sotong in George Town. Thick yellow noodles were coated in a rich, sweet-spicy sauce accented with tamarind, peanut and sambal chilli. The dish leaned towards the sweeter side, owing to Chef Mel Dean’s addition of sweet potato purée, which further enhanced its sweetness.

Complementing the richly flavoured mains was a selection of refreshing Nusantara Salads, including Penang Rojak.

During dinner service, guests can also enjoy an additional grill station featuring a wholesome selection of meats and seafood. Offerings included Chicken and Mutton Satay, Barramundi Bakar and Ayam Bakar Serai. The Barramundi Bakar impressed with its moist, tender flesh, while the Ayam Bakar Serai stood out for its enticing smoky char and fragrant lemongrass notes.

Also popular at Permata is its Seafood on Ice selection, and sambals, crackers, and both hot and cold desserts.

From 1 to 30 June 2026, enjoy a 1-for-1 Buffet (for adult guests only).
Lunch: $88++ for 2 Pax (U.P. $176++ for 2 Pax)
Dinner: $108++ for 2 Pax (U.P. $216++ for 2 Pax)
Children below 7 years old get to dine for free

Permata also offers affordable discounted prices for senior citizens, youths and children.

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


Permata
73 Sultan Gate
Singapore 198497
Tel: +65 9082 9941
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Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 5pm - 7pm, 730pm -930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT Station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge and walk to the end of the overhead bridge. Cross the road and walk down Beach Road. Turn left onto Sultan Gate Road. Walk down Sultan Gate Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Satori @ Amoy Street - Vibey Yakitori Spot Serving Over 50 Skewers at Wallet-Friendly Prices

Satori at Amoy Street fires up the grill with a lively, no-frills yakitori concept that strikes a compelling balance between omakase-level precision and the spirited energy of a modern Japanese tavern. Helmed by Chef Wilson, a protégé of yakitori master Chef Shyong from sister restaurant Sapōto, the concept brings serious grilling credentials into a more accessible, vibey setting.

With over 50 skewers on the menu priced from just $3.80, Satori is designed for both casual diners looking for a quick bite and enthusiasts eager to explore a wide spectrum of yakitori cuts.

Nori Salad 3.5/5

We began with the Nori Salad ($9.80), a refreshing starter that goes beyond the usual greens. Crisp lettuce and nori form the base, but what sets it apart is the addition of crispy whitebait scattered throughout. These tiny fish lend a delightful crunch and an umami punch, elevating the dish with both texture and depth. It’s a simple yet thoughtful composition that whets the appetite nicely.

Truffle Chawanmushi 4/5

The Truffle Chawanmushi ($9.80) is a crowd-pleasing classic done right. Silky smooth and delicately steamed, the custard melts effortlessly on the palate. The truffle oil is unmistakable, perfuming each spoonful with an earthy richness that feels indulgent without overwhelming the dish’s inherent lightness. It’s a comforting prelude to the heavier grilled items.

Tsukune (Minced Chicken)

Seseri Neck

Cherry Tomato

Bonjiri (Tail)

Sunagimo (Gizzard)

Shishito (Green Pepper)

Tebasaki (Mid Wing) / Chef’s Yakitori Set 4/5

To get a proper sense of Satori’s yakitori prowess, the Chef’s Selection Yakitori Set ($29.80) is an excellent starting point. Comprising seven skewers — including four chicken cuts, one organ, and two vegetables — it offers a well-rounded introduction to the menu. Each skewer is grilled over binchotan charcoal, imparting a deep, smoky aroma while preserving the ingredients’ natural juiciness.

The tsukune (minced chicken) is tender and well-seasoned, with a slight bounce and savoury glaze that lingers. Seseri (neck) delivers a satisfying chew with rich chicken flavour, while bonjiri (tail) stands out for its fatty, melt-in-the-mouth decadence. The sunagimo (gizzard) offers a firmer bite, adding textural contrast to the lineup. On the vegetable front, the shishito pepper provides a mild, smoky sweetness, and the cherry tomato bursts with juicy brightness, acting as a refreshing counterpoint. The tebasaki (mid-wing) rounds out the set with juicy meat beneath lightly crisped skin.

Mini Unagi Don 4/5

For something more substantial, the Mini Unagi Don ($16.80) makes for a satisfying companion. The grilled eel is glazed with a luscious sweet-savoury sauce that seeps into the fluffy Japanese rice beneath. A glossy egg yolk adds creaminess, balancing the sweetness, while slices of cucumber inject a welcome crunch and freshness. Despite its “mini” label, it feels hearty enough to anchor the meal.

Chicken Heart 4/5

Pork Belly with Lettuce 4.2/5

We also explored a few additional skewers. The Chicken Heart ($3.80) impresses with its clean, rich flavour and springy texture, free from any metallic aftertaste that sometimes plagues organ meats. The Pork Belly with Lettuce ($6.80) is particularly enjoyable — the pork belly renders beautifully over the grill, achieving a smoky, slightly crisp exterior. At the same time, the lettuce inside remains lightly wilted yet refreshing. It’s a clever combination, with the lettuce acting as a natural palate cleanser against the richness of the pork.

Beef Tongue 4.2/5

The Beef Tongue ($13.80) is grilled quickly over high heat, resulting in a caramelised char on the edges while retaining a tender bite. Its inherent fattiness and deep beefy flavour are enhanced by the smokiness from the binchotan, making it one of the more indulgent skewers on the menu.

Overall, Satori succeeds in delivering quality yakitori without the stiffness of a traditional omakase setting. The skewers are thoughtfully executed, the menu is extensive yet approachable, and the atmosphere encourages lingering over drinks and multiple rounds of skewers. It’s the kind of place where you can drop by for a casual bite or settle in for a full-on yakitori feast with friends — all without breaking the bank.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Satori
89 Amoy Street
Singapore 069908
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 3pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]