Shabu Days @ Bukit Panjang - Affordable Solo Shabu-Shabu Sets from S$14.90

Tucked within the bustling Kopitiam Food Hall at Hillion Mall, Shabu Days presents a personal shabu-shabu concept that is both comforting and convenient, ideal for a quick midday recharge or a fuss-free dinner. The concept of solo hotpot dining is executed with thoughtful precision here, offering well-balanced sets that feel both nourishing and accessible for everyday indulgence.

Starting from an approachable S$14.90, each set at Shabu Days is designed to deliver a complete and satisfying meal. Diners can choose from nine cut-to-order mains, spanning from classic options such as Chicken Thigh ($14.90), Pork Collar ($16.90) and Beef Brisket ($19.90) to more premium selections like Australian Wagyu ($29.90), Japanese A5 Wagyu ($39.90), and the Seafood Treasure Platter ($29.90). The variety ensures there is something for every palate and occasion.

Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll

Pork Collar

During our visit, we opted for the Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll and Pork Collar. Sliced upon order, the meats showcased beautiful colour and marbling, immediately hinting at their quality. The Japanese A5 Wagyu, in particular, was richly marbled, delivering a buttery tenderness and depth of flavour that melted effortlessly with each swish in the broth. The Pork Collar, on the other hand, offered a satisfying balance of lean meat and delicate fat, remaining juicy and flavourful after cooking.

Bonito Kombu Broth 4.2/5

Tangy Tomato Broth 4.2/5

Complementing the meats is a selection of nourishing broths, each bringing its own distinct character to the experience. The Bonito Kombu broth stood out with its clean, umami-rich profile, layered with the subtle sweetness of kombu and the smokiness of bonito. The Herbal Angelica broth offered a gentle, comforting herbal note, while the Tangy Tomato provided a light, refreshing acidity that brightened the meal. For those seeking bolder flavours, the Sukiyaki broth paired with a pasteurised egg delivers a sweet-savoury richness. In contrast, the Spicy Umami broth caters to those who prefer a more robust and punchy base.

Each set is accompanied by a thoughtfully assembled Yasai Garden Bowl, featuring a colourful medley of seasonal vegetables, including green and red coral lettuce, enoki and shimeji mushrooms, and carrot and pumpkin. This not only adds vibrancy to the meal but also balances the richness of the meats with freshness and texture. Diners can further customise their set with a choice of carbohydrates, Calrose white rice, ramen or udon alongside the "Three Treasures" of kinchaku, mini chikuwa and gyoza, rounding out the meal with additional variety.

A highlight of the Shabu Days experience is the signature DIY Egg Risotto (add $3.50). Using the remaining broth, diners can transform it into a comforting, risotto-style dish by adding rice, a pasteurised egg, and condiments. This interactive finale is both satisfying and resourceful, allowing the broth's flavours to culminate in a warm, hearty finish.

Overall, Shabu Days delivers a well-executed solo hotpot experience that strikes a fine balance between quality, value and convenience. With its curated sets, quality ingredients and comforting flavours, it is a concept that invites repeat visits, whether for a quick solo meal or a casual, satisfying indulgence.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shabu Days
Kopitiam Food Hall
Hillion Mall
17 Petir Road
#02-15-20
Singapore 678278
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Nearest MRT: Bukit Panjang (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bukit Panjang MRT station. Take Exit A2. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Club Rangoon @ Duxton Road - A Rare Gem Showcasing Contemporary Burmese Cuisine in Singapore

Along the vibrant stretch of Duxton Road, Club Rangoon continues to stand its ground in Singapore's ever-evolving dining landscape. Having first visited shortly after its opening in August 2024, it is heartening to return nearly a year and a half later to see the restaurant not only surviving but refining its identity. In a city where dining concepts come and go with startling frequency, Club Rangoon remains a rare gem — spotlighting contemporary Burmese cuisine, a cuisine still relatively underrepresented in Singapore.

Laphet Hummus 4.2/5

The Laphet Hummus ($14) offers a thoughtful reinterpretation of a familiar staple. Infused with fermented tea leaves, the hummus carries a distinctive Burmese accent that is earthy, umami-rich, and gently herbaceous, setting it apart from its Mediterranean counterpart. The texture is luxuriously smooth, almost velvety, serving as a canvas for the nuanced flavours of laphet and tea leaf oil drizzled atop. This "gentle funk" adds intrigue without overwhelming the palate. Paired with warm, pillowy pita, it becomes an addictive starter that invites repeated scooping.

Short Rib Skewers 4.2/5

The Short Rib Skewers ($18 for 2pc) exemplify the restaurant's knack for balancing richness with brightness. Grilled to tender perfection, the beef boasts a melt-in-the-mouth texture, accented by a light smoky char. What elevates the dish is the Burmese-style chimichurri, sharper and more herbaceous than the traditional Argentinian version, cutting cleanly through the meat's fattiness. The accompanying pennywort salad lends a refreshing crunch and a slightly bitter note, rounding out the dish with finesse.

Samusa Thoke 4/5

A beloved Burmese street food classic, the Samusa Thoke ($12) is a medley of textures and flavours. Crispy potato samosas are broken apart and tossed into a warm, comforting yellow split pea soup, allowing them to soak up the broth while retaining bits of crunch. The addition of shredded cabbage and fresh mint introduces a crisp, cooling contrast, while a squeeze of lime ties everything together with a bright, zesty lift. The interplay between warm and fresh elements makes this dish both hearty and refreshing.

Ohn-No Khout Swel 4/5

The Ohn-No Khout Swel ($20) delivers a comforting bowl of coconut chicken noodle curry. Rich yet approachable, the mildly spiced broth is thick enough to coat each strand of egg noodles and envelop tender pieces of chicken. A halved boiled egg adds an extra layer of richness, while crunchy yellow rice crackers provide textural contrast. With lime and chilli on the side, diners can easily adjust the balance of acidity and heat, making it a highly customisable and satisfying main.

Wet Thar Dan Dauk 4.5/5

A standout on the menu, the Wet Thar Dan Dauk ($34) is a luxurious take on Burmese-style biryani. Fragrant basmati rice, infused with saffron and ghee, forms the base for a generous portion of slow-cooked pork knuckle. The meat is incredibly tender, with gelatinous richness that melts effortlessly on the palate. To offset this indulgence, a side of tangy green mango salad provides a refreshing acidity and crunch, ensuring each bite remains balanced and enjoyable.

Yone Pathay Thee Tofu Kyaw 4.5/5

The Yone Pathay Thee Tofu Kyaw ($22) showcases the depth of Burmese "dry curry" techniques. Featuring okra and tofu stir-fried with a robust masala blend, the dish delivers concentrated, caramelised flavours with every bite. The tofu absorbs the spices beautifully, while the okra adds a tender, slightly crisp texture. A touch of tamarind introduces a sharp, fruity acidity that cuts through the warmth of the spices, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and well-balanced.

Laphet-yay Ice Cream 4.5/5

Ending on a high note, the Laphet-yay Ice Cream ($14) is a creative homage to Burmese milk tea. Smooth and creamy, the ice cream captures the bold, slightly tannic notes of black tea, mellowed by the sweetness of condensed milk. The addition of a banana and jaggery crumble introduces a contrasting texture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness. The interplay between warm, earthy flavours and the cold creaminess of the ice cream makes for a refined yet comforting dessert.

Returning to Club Rangoon, the progression is evident. The refreshed menu feels more confident and cohesive, with flavours that are better defined and more attuned to the local palate without losing their Burmese essence. This second visit not only deepened my appreciation for the cuisine but also highlighted the restaurant's growth in bridging tradition and modernity. In many ways, Club Rangoon continues to play an important role in introducing and evolving Burmese cuisine within Singapore's dynamic food scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Club Rangoon
76 Duxton Road
Singapore 089535
Tel: +65 8190 8827
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Website
Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 530pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 12midnight

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

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Walk down Craig Road towards Duxton Road. Turn right onto Duxton Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

PUTIEN @ Westgate - Savour the Once-a-Year Duotou Clams at PUTIEN, Featuring New Bold Creations

Known for its authentic Fujian cuisine, PUTIEN once again celebrates the return of its highly anticipated seasonal delicacy, Duotou Clams, available across all outlets until 31 July 2026. Harvested only once a year at peak quality, these prized clams from Duotou Village in Putian, Fujian, are revered for their plump, juicy texture, natural sweetness, and a clean, mineral-rich finish that lingers delicately on the palate.

What truly sets Duotou Clams apart lies in their origin. Cultivated in nutrient-rich black mudflats formed over a millennium and nourished by higher-salinity waters, the clams develop a deeper, more concentrated flavour than regular varieties. Farmed using traditional methods that date back over 600 years and harvested painstakingly by hand, often buried up to 30cm beneath the surface, each clam embodies a legacy of patience, craftsmanship, and respect for nature.

Salt-baked Duotou Clam 4.2/5

A perennial favourite, the Salt-baked Duotou Clam ($29.80) continues to impress as PUTIEN's best-selling clam dish for nine consecutive years globally. Served atop a bed of coarse sea salt, the clams are gently baked to retain their natural juices, allowing their inherent sweetness to shine. The addition of aromatic Szechuan peppercorns introduces a subtle numbing fragrance that enhances rather than overpowers, lifting the overall flavour profile. Each bite delivers a satisfying burst of briny sweetness, complemented by the clam's signature plumpness and clean finish.

Duotou Clams in Sauce 4.5/5

A new addition to this year's lineup, the Duotou Clams in Sauce ($29.80) offers a bolder, more robust expression. Cloaked in a rich, spicy, and umami-laden sauce, the dish delivers a lingering heat with a gentle numbing sensation. The sauce clings beautifully to the clams, amplifying their sweetness while adding depth and complexity. It is a well-balanced creation that showcases PUTIEN's ability to innovate while respecting the ingredient's integrity.

Diners can also take advantage of the limited-time membership promotion, "8 Delectable Dishes, Feast on 2 at a Time!", where any two Duotou clam dishes are available at a special price of $48.80 — a great opportunity to sample different interpretations of this seasonal treasure.

Sweet & Sour Pork with Lychees 4.5/5

A signature that never disappoints, the Sweet & Sour Pork with Lychees ($17.80/ $26.70) remains a must-order. The dish stands out for its remarkable consistency, arguably one of the best renditions in Singapore. The pork is tender and succulent, encased in a light, crisp batter that holds up well against the glossy sauce. Real lychees lend a natural sweetness and fruity brightness, creating a harmonious balance with the sauce's tangy notes. It is an appetising dish that hits all the right notes without being overly cloying.

Braised Luffa with Dried Scallop 4.2/5

The Braised Luffa with Dried Scallop ($16.80/ $25.20) is a comforting, understated dish that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients done right. The luffa is tender and velvety, with a slight crunch that preserves its freshness, while its natural sweetness is gently coaxed out through braising. Shredded dried scallops (conpoy) infuse the light gravy with a deep, savoury umami, adding layers of flavour without overwhelming the palate. The result is a delicate yet flavourful dish that complements heavier items on the table.

Fried Heng Hwa Bee Hoon 4.5/5

The Fried Heng Hwa Bee Hoon ($14.80/ $29.60) showcases the finesse of PUTIEN's culinary roots. Made from Xinghua rice vermicelli sourced from Putian, the noodles are traditionally sun-dried, resulting in strands that are exceptionally fine, translucent, and resilient. Despite absorbing the savoury broth, the bee hoon retains a pleasing "al dente" bite without turning mushy. Lightly seasoned yet deeply flavourful, the dish carries a subtle rice fragrance that speaks to the purity and quality of the noodles.

With both classic and contemporary interpretations, PUTIEN's Duotou Clam season celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and ingredient-driven cooking. Available for a limited time only, it is a compelling reason to revisit the restaurant and savour one of Fujian's most treasured seasonal offerings.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


PUTIEN
Westgate
3 Gateway Drive
#03-08
Singapore 608532
Tel: +65 6254 8535
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm Fri-Sun: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Jurong East MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

The Orchard Cafe @ Orchard Hotel Singapore - Elevated OZ “Meats” Buffet, A Lavish Sunday Brunch Experience with Expanded Indulgences and Weekend Favourites

The Orchard Cafe presents an elevated take on its well-loved OZ "Meats" Buffet with a special Sunday Brunch, offering an expanded spread that brings together hearty Australian highlights alongside indulgent brunch classics. The refreshed experience delivers a satisfying weekend feast, complete with premium ingredients and comforting favourites for all ages.

Salad

The buffet begins on a high note with a vibrant selection of Chef's Salads, offering a refreshing and flavourful start. Highlights include the Spanish Style Grilled Octopus, Creamy Idaho Potato with mustard and dill, and the Tomato with Baby Mozzarella and basil. Heartier options such as AUS Pulled Lamb with lentil and hummus, and AUS Beef Brisket with pickled vegetables further elevate the spread.

Artisan Cheeses

Following this is the antipasto section, featuring an assortment of Salami, Mortadella, Serrano Ham, Pepperoni and Smoked Salmon, complemented by a selection of premium artisan cheeses. This combination of cured meats and cheeses offers a satisfying balance of savoury richness and creamy indulgence.

Seafood on Ice

Seafood lovers will appreciate the generous Seafood on Ice selection, which includes Red Prawns, Mussels, Half-Shell Scallops, Cherry Clams, Black Mussels, Snow Crab, and Boston Lobster, alongside Poached Salmon. Adding to the spread are Assorted Sashimi such as Salmon, Trout, Yellowfin Tuna, and Hamachi, as well as a variety of Sushi and Maki Rolls of the Day.

Carving Station

At the Carving Station, diners can enjoy an impressive lineup of hearty mains. Highlights include the Slow-Roasted AUS Grain-Fed Prime Rib served with baby potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and red wine sauce, as well as the Aussie-Style Grass-Fed Lamb Rack paired with mint and BBQ sauces. The Maple Glazed & Orange Marmalade Gammon Ham stood out for its balance of sweet and savoury notes. At the same time, the Baked Barramundi and Peri-Peri Roasted Chicken offered lighter yet flavourful alternatives.

Satay and Meats

The AUS Meats Charcoal Grill Station adds a smoky dimension to the feast, featuring grilled favourites such as Tiger Prawns, Pork Belly, Pork Bacon, Chicken Wings and Chicken Satay, all freshly prepared over charcoal for that irresistible charred aroma.

Roasted Delights

A selection of Roasted Delights further complements the spread, including Roasted Duck, Roasted Pork, BBQ Pork, and Hainanese Chicken served with fragrant Hainanese Chicken Rice, offering familiar local flavours that are always crowd-pleasers.

Chilli Crab

One of our favourite local delights is the Chilli Crab served with mantou, boasting a rich, tangy and spicy sauce that pairs perfectly with the fluffy fried buns, making it a must-have dish during brunch.

Congee Station, Noodle Bar

For those seeking comforting carbohydrates, the buffet also features a Congee Station with assorted condiments and fried Chinese doughnuts, alongside a Noodle Bar serving options such as Lor Mee and Laksa, catering to different flavour preferences. For a more satisfying combination, pair a warm bowl of congee with the soft, flavourful braised soy pork, which adds comforting richness to the dish.

Indian and Dosa Station

The Indian Station offers a robust spread of bold, aromatic dishes, including Kolkata Biryani, Butter Chicken, and Mutton Kosha Mangsho, alongside vegetarian options like Palak Paneer and Keerai Paruppu Kadayal. The Dosa Station serves freshly made Masala Dosa, Onion Uttapam and Plain Dosa with sambar and chutney.

Foie Gras

Adding a luxurious touch to the brunch is the Foie Gras Station, where Pan Roasted French Foie Gras is served with rhubarb chutney and brioche.

Egg Benedict

The Egg Station offers made-to-order Eggs Benedict with perfect flowy yolks, perfect for a classic brunch indulgence.

Oysters

Seafood aficionados will also enjoy the Oyster Station, featuring both baked and steamed oysters, which quickly became one of our personal favourites for their freshness and briny sweetness.

Kids Munchkin Section

Families are well catered for with the Munchkin Table, offering kid-friendly favourites such as pizza, pasta on a wheel, Wagyu beef sliders, hash browns, snail sausages and fish & chips, ensuring even the little ones have plenty to enjoy.

Desserts

Desserts round off the experience on a delightful note, with an extensive selection that includes Signature Mango Cake, Strawberry Shortcake, Opera Cake, and Yuzu Sesame Cake. Other indulgent treats include Tim Tam Tarts with Berries, candy donuts, assorted kuehs, apple pie and pralines, as well as Banoffee Cream Pudding with white chocolate crumble. The Chocolate Fountain, served with fruits, marshmallows, Rice Krispies, and a fun popcorn station, adds a playful and satisfying end to the brunch.

OZ "Meats" Buffet is available from now to 30 April 2026.

Weekday Lunch (Monday to Friday): $88 per person
Weekday Dinner (Monday to Thursday): $102 per person
Weekend Lunch (Saturday to Sunday): $98 per person
Weekend Dinner (Friday to Sunday): $112 per person

For the months of March and April 2026, make a reservation via https://www.millenniumhotels.com/tc/sgfoodonfoot to enjoy a complimentary glass of The Orchard Cafe Signature Drink.

Words and photos by Crystal. A lady who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Orchard Cafe
Lobby
442 Orchard Road
Singapore 238879
Tel: +65 67396565
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Wheelock Place. Walk to the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Angullia Park. Cross the road to the Royal Thai Embassy. Turn left and continue down Orchard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]