Alijiang (阿里疆) @ VivoCity - Bringing The Bold, Rustic Flavours of Xinjiang to Singapore

Located on the third floor of VivoCity, Alijiang (阿里疆) brings the bold, rustic flavours of Xinjiang cuisine to the southern coast of Singapore. Since first opening in February 2019, the restaurant has built a steady following over the past seven years, offering diners a vibrant taste of the Silk Road in an upbeat yet polished setting, complete with views overlooking the Sentosa gateway.

Uae Salad 阿联酋沙拉 (Green Salad with Secret Sauce) 4/5

We began the meal with the UAE Salad 阿联酋沙拉 ($29.80), a refreshing cold appetiser that provides a welcome contrast to the robust, spice-laden dishes typical of Xinjiang cuisine. A medley of greens, avocado, and figs is brought together by a savoury, tangy vinaigrette with a gentle sweetness, making it both appetising and well-balanced.

Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 4/5

Next, the Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 ($3.20/pc) offered a lighter alternative to the restaurant’s signature lamb skewers. Made with succulent chunks of chicken thigh, the skewers are grilled over high heat, achieving a smoky, lightly charred exterior while retaining a juicy interior. The seasoning carries the hallmark bold spices of Northwestern Chinese cuisine but remains approachable even for those less accustomed to stronger flavours.

Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 4.5/5

A highlight of the evening was the Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 ($38/$58), a comforting dish that showcases the Central Asian influence on Xinjiang cooking. The brisket is slow-cooked until fork-tender, with just enough fat to enrich the dish. The tomato-based gravy is thick and robust, offering a natural balance of acidity and sweetness. Presented in a pastry-sealed vase, the dish is theatrically poured into a pot at the table, with the pastry serving as a delightful accompaniment to soak up the luscious sauce.

Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 4.5/5

Equally impressive was the Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 ($28.80), arguably the most iconic dish of Xinjiang cuisine. This hearty communal plate features bone-in chicken pieces braised in a deeply aromatic sauce, alongside chunks of potato that have beautifully absorbed the rich flavours. Beneath the dish lie wide, hand-pulled belt noodles, prized for their chewy “QQ” texture. Designed to soak up the spicy gravy, the noodles are an essential and satisfying component of the dish.

Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot 3.8/5

For dessert, the Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot 酸奶凉糕 ($7.80/pax) offered an interesting interplay of textures. The house-made yoghurt is thicker and tangier than usual, paired with chewy glutinous rice pearls that lend a mochi-like bite. A sweet apricot sauce ties the elements together with a light floral sweetness.

Homemade Vrum Yoghurt 5/5

However, the true standout was the Homemade Vrum Yoghurt 自制奶皮子酸奶 ($4.80). Exceptionally thick and creamy, it boasts a custard-like consistency with a pronounced tangy profile. Made in limited quantities daily, it is highly sought after and often sells out — a testament to its popularity and quality.

Alijiang at VivoCity delivers a distinctive dining experience that highlights the rich culinary heritage of Xinjiang. From smoky skewers to hearty stews and unique dairy-based desserts, the menu captures the essence of Silk Road flavours while remaining accessible to the local palate. It is a compelling destination for those looking to explore a different facet of Chinese cuisine beyond the familiar.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Alijiang (阿里疆)
VivoCity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#03-11
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 62524979
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

The Black Pearl (黑珍珠) @ Odeon 333 - A Modern Interpretation of Cantonese Classics in the Heart of the City

Perched atop Odeon 333, The Black Pearl offers an elegant dining experience, complemented by a magnificent view of downtown Singapore’s skyline. Helmed by Chef Dee Chan, the restaurant’s latest menu presents a thoughtful interplay between heritage Cantonese ‘Yue’ cuisine and contemporary finesse, drawing inspiration from the elegance of the pearl and the grandeur of Qing Imperial banquet dining.

75°C Drunken Prawns 4.5/5

The 75°C Drunken Prawns ($26) is a masterclass in precision cooking. Departing from the traditional method, the prawns are sous vide at an exact temperature of 75°C, resulting in a firm yet succulent texture that retains their natural sweetness. A bespoke sake-infused sauce lends a refined aromatic profile, offering delicate fruity and rice notes without the harshness often associated with Chinese wine. The balance here is key, enhancing rather than masking the seafood’s intrinsic flavours.

Eight Treasures in Whole Winter Melon 4.8/5

A showstopper on the menu, the Eight Treasures in Whole Winter Melon ($128) is a labour-intensive creation that requires a minimum one-day pre-order. The broth, simmered for over 12 hours with pork bones and old hen, delivers remarkable depth and richness. Within, a medley of premium ingredients — including prawn, dried scallop, crab meat and Chinese ham — comes together harmoniously. The winter melon, meticulously prepared and braised, acts as a sponge, soaking up the essence of the luxurious broth while retaining its delicate, juicy texture.

Stir-fried Mini Buddha Jump Over The Wall with Pearl Rice 3/5

The Stir-fried Mini Buddha Jump Over The Wall with Pearl Rice ($68) offers a creative reinterpretation of the classic Fujian delicacy. While the dish retains its luxurious ingredients, transforming it into a dry, rice-based version somewhat diminishes the appreciation of each component. The intermingling of ingredients results in a loss of distinction, making it less satisfying compared to the traditional soup format.

Braised Homemade Beancurd with Mini Abalone 4.2/5

The Braised Homemade Beancurd with Mini Abalone ($36) highlights the kitchen’s craftsmanship. Made in-house using premium soybeans and Japanese eggs, the tofu boasts a silky texture with a gentle bounce. Paired with a rich, umami-laden abalone sauce and tender mini abalone, the dish delivers depth without overwhelming the palate.

Braised Dongpo Pork Belly with Aged Hua Diao 4.5/5

A nostalgic dish with personal significance to Chef Dee, the Braised Dongpo Pork Belly with Aged Hua Diao ($36) impresses with its meticulous preparation. Infused with 15-year-old Hua Diao wine and slow-braised to perfection, the pork belly achieves a melt-in-the-mouth consistency. Despite its luscious layers of fat, the dish remains balanced and not overly greasy, with the aged wine imparting a mellow, aromatic complexity.

Diced Chinese Sausage & Seasonal Mushroom Rice 4/5

The Diced Chinese Sausage & Seasonal Mushroom Rice ($48) is a comforting staple elevated through thoughtful ingredient selection. Featuring Hong Kong-sourced lap cheong and seasonal mushrooms, the dish is further refined by a carefully calibrated blend of pearl rice and jasmine rice, achieving an ideal balance of fragrance, texture and bite.

Almond Cream with Peach Gum & 2 Glutinous Rice Balls 4.5/5

Ending the meal on a soothing note, the Almond Cream with Peach Gum & Glutinous Rice Balls is light yet satisfying. Its gentle sweetness and silky consistency make it a comforting finale, with the chewy glutinous rice balls adding a pleasant textural contrast.

From technique-driven dishes to soulful classics, The Black Pearl’s new menu reflects Chef Dee Chan’s dedication to honouring tradition while embracing modern refinement — all set against a stunning cityscape backdrop.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Black Pearl
Odeon 333
333 North Bridge Road
#07-11/12
Singapore 188721
Tel: +65 6022 1022
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut through Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. Walk to the traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk down North Bridge Road to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Bras Basah Road. Turn left and walk down Bras Basah Road. Turn left onto North Bridge Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Yakiniku LIKE @ The Cathay - Celebrates 6 Years of Tasty, Quick, and Value Dining With Attractive Promotions

Yakiniku LIKE, Singapore's first Japanese-origin fast-casual yakiniku brand, is celebrating its sixth anniversary with a lineup of attractive promotions from 23 March to 17 May 2026. We dropped by the outlet at The Cathay to check out the promotions.

Kagoshima Wagyu Cuts

From now till 19 April 2026, the brand is running a Kagoshima Campaign showcasing premium Kagoshima Wagyu cuts. One of them is the Triangle Rib, a rare cut that yields only about 1% per head of cattle. It is also highly prized for its beautiful balance of tender, lean meat and sweet, buttery fat. Other featured Kagoshima Wagyu cuts include Prime Karubi and Nakaochi.

Kagoshima A5 Wagyu & Karubi Duo Set 4/5

We dropped by the latest outlet at The Cathay. Among the available A5 Kagoshima Wagyu selections, we had the Kagoshima A5 Wagyu & Karubi Duo Set ($48.90). Designed for two diners, the set comes complete with Cold Tofu, Kimchi, Salad, Seaweed Soup, and Rice, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Harami and Rosu

To fully enjoy the anniversary promotions, be sure to add on some of the special 6th Anniversary Add-Ons, available till 17 May 2026. These include $6 Prime Karubi (50g), $6 Harami (50g), and $6 Rosu (100g). Both the Harami and Rosu offer a meatier bite, providing a nice contrast to the Kagoshima Wagyu cuts, which are richer and more indulgent due to their fats' marbling.

What's more, from 6 to 17 April 2026 on weekdays, loyal Yakiniku LIKE members can enjoy 50% off a second set meal on selected offerings.

Celebrating six years of bringing authentic Japanese yakiniku to Singapore, Yakiniku LIKE's anniversary promotions are a fitting reflection of the brand's continued promise of Tasty, Quick, Value.

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.


Yakiniku Like
The Cathay
2 Handy Road
#01-02
Singapore 229233
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchard Road and Handy Road traffic junction. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Peh Gao Coffeeshop @ Serene Centre - Coffeeshop In The Day, Taproom In The Night

Tucked within Serene Centre, Peh Gao presents a unique dual-concept space that seamlessly shifts from a nostalgic kopitiam by day to a lively craft beer destination by night. Operating from 8am to 3pm, the daytime menu pays homage to local breakfast staples alongside hearty mains, before transforming into Orh Gao in the evening, offering Asian-inspired bar bites paired with an eclectic craft beer selection.

The morning crowd can look forward to a concise menu before 10am, featuring traditional toast and open-top sandwiches. From 10am to 2pm, the offerings expand to include a range of noodle and rice dishes, complemented by satisfying sides.

Traditional Kaya Butter Toast 5/5

Starting with the Traditional Kaya Butter Toast ($2.80), it’s easy to see why this has garnered a reputation as one of the best in town. The toast strikes an ideal balance — crisp on the outside yet thick enough to retain a soft, fluffy interior, offering a delightful textural contrast. Slathered with fragrant kaya rich in coconut and pandan notes, and layered with a generous slab of butter, each bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweetness and richness that lingers.

Mapo Tofu Udon 4.2/5

Moving on to the Mapo Tofu Udon ($12), the dish brings together elements of different cuisines in a comforting fusion bowl. Featuring silky mapo tofu, minced pork, onsen egg, and fried beancurd skin, it evokes a sense of familiarity akin to bak chor mee or even a bolognese-style pasta, with udon replacing the usual noodles for a heartier bite.

Nasi Lemak Beef Rendang 4.8/5

A standout on the menu is undoubtedly the Nasi Lemak Beef Rendang ($15). The coconut rice is aromatic and fluffy, forming the perfect base for the exceptionally tender beef cheek, which is braised until melt-in-the-mouth soft and deeply infused with rempah spices. Paired with classic accompaniments such as sambal, ikan bilis, peanuts and egg, this is a must-order dish that impresses on all fronts.

Fried Spring Rolls 3/5

The Fried Spring Rolls ($5) offer a crisp exterior, deep-fried to a golden brown. However, the radish and carrot filling lacks depth of flavour, making it less memorable than the other dishes.

Pho Ultimate 3.8/5

For something comforting, the Pho Ultimate ($19) features generous chunks of beef short rib alongside flat rice noodles, bean sprouts and fresh herbs in a spiced broth. The broth leans lighter in flavour, but the addition of condiments elevates the overall profile, resulting in a soothing bowl.

Crunchy Chicken Cartilage 3.8/5

Come evening, the space transitions into Orh Gao, where the focus shifts to bar bites and craft brews. The Crunchy Chicken Cartilage ($12) makes for an ideal accompaniment to drinks, with its well-marinated, crispy bites delivering a satisfying crunch and chew, especially when paired with chilli sauce.

Kra Pow Mee Tai Mak 4/5

Equally inventive is the Kra Pow Mee Tai Mak ($15), a creative fusion dish marrying Thai basil chicken with claypot mee tai mak. Each mouthful is packed with bold flavours — aromatic basil, a gentle heat, and the richness of the onsen egg tying everything together.

Curry Mussels 4/5

The Curry Mussels ($21) round off the experience on a comforting note. The fresh mussels are bathed in a sambal butter curry that leans slightly sweet and creamy, accompanied by focaccia bread perfect for soaking up every bit of the sauce.

Craft Beer

Of course, no visit to Orh Gao is complete without exploring its rotating selection of craft beers on tap. The diverse lineup ensures there’s something to suit every palate, making it an inviting spot to unwind.

With its thoughtful concept and well-executed menu spanning both traditional and modern flavours, Peh Gao successfully carves out its identity as both a dependable breakfast spot and a vibrant evening hangout.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Peh Gao / Orh Gao
Serene Centre
10 Jalan Serene
#01-06
Singapore 258748
Tel: +65 8749 2755
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Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens ( CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Peh Gao
Tue-Sun: 8am - 3pm
Orh Gao
Tue-Thu, Sun: 4pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 4pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Botanic Gardens MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Bukit Timah Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Orchid Live Seafood @ Seletar Hills Estate - Fresh Live Seafood & Fun Mystery Seafood Bags

If you are a fan of fresh live seafood, Orchid Live Seafood is probably one of those places that should already be on your radar. Known for its tank-to-table seafood and Teochew-style cooking, this long-standing local favourite has been serving up quality live catches for years, with preparations that let the seafood's natural sweetness shine. On our recent visit to their Jalan Kelulut outlet, we got to try a mix of their signature dishes, seasonal specials, and even their newly launched Mystery Seafood Bag experience, which adds a fun surprise element to the meal.

Homemade Tofu served with Century Egg & Tobiko 4.5/5

Starting with a cold appetiser, the Homemade Tofu served with Century Egg & Tobiko ($8) was a pleasant surprise. The tofu had a firmer, more custardy texture, with strips of imitation crab meat tucked inside. The century egg purée was well-balanced and not too strong, while the tobiko added a little pop. A simple but enjoyable starter.

Signature Local Rock Lobster Porridge 5/5

The Signature Local Rock Lobster Porridge ($120 for 1kg) was easily one of our favourite dishes of the meal. Although meant for 4 persons, it can definitely feed 5 to 6 if you are sharing other dishes too. The broth was light yet packed with sweetness from the fresh live rock lobster, making it both comforting and flavourful. A must-order here for that umami punch!

Steamed Snow Crab 4.5/5

For April, Orchid Live Seafood is offering Live Snow Crab at $78 for 1 or $138 for 2 (U.P. $138/kg). Steamed with egg white, the crab was naturally sweet, letting the freshness shine. A little tip: we added some egg white to the lobster porridge, and it made it even more umami. Do not miss this incredible offer, really value for money!

White Pepper Dungeness Crab 4.5/5

Blind boxes are trending, but have you tried Blind Seafood? Orchid Live Seafood's new Mystery Seafood Bag lets diners pick from two tiers ($48++ / $68++) to reveal a surprise live seafood item at up to 50% off, plus a cute seafood plushie to bring home.

There are a few possible catches, including Bamboo Clams, Boston Lobster, Abalone, Soon Hock, Turbot and Dungeness Crab. We got the Dungeness Crab and had it cooked in white pepper style - fragrant, fresh and super addictive.

Signature Steven Chicken 4.5/5

Not everything worth ordering here is seafood. The Signature Steven Chicken ($24, medium) is one of the restaurant's long-time favourites, and it's easy to see why. Nicely fried, crispy and coated in a savoury-sweet glaze, sprinkled with sesame seeds - this was a very addictive dish that would appeal to almost everyone at the table, especially the kids.

Stir Fry Royal Chives 4.5/5

Also known as Qing Long Cai, the Stir Fry Royal Chives ($18, small) was cooked just right, retaining a nice crunch. Light, fresh and simple, it was a good contrast to the richer seafood dishes.

Overall, Orchid Live Seafood offers fresh live seafood, comforting local-style flavours and good value for the quality. Portions are generous, the staff are friendly, and the dining experience feels fuss-free yet satisfying. It is a great option for family meals and seafood gatherings, and it even has a private dining room for special occasions. They currently have 2 outlets - Jalan Kelulut and HomeTeamNS Khatib.

Membership Perks

Join Orchid Live Seafood's FREE membership programme and enjoy:
• $10 voucher for your next visit
• 2 x $5 vouchers for your 2nd and 3rd visit
• Earn 1 point for every $10 spent
• Redeem $10 for every 30 points
*T&Cs apply.

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


Orchid Live Seafood
16 Jalan Kelulut
Singapore 809033
Tel: +65 6484 2495
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Nearest MRT: Buangkok (NE Line), Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 230pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to bus stop at Serangoon MRT Station (Stop ID 66351). Take bus number 70, 104. Alight 10 stops later. Walk to Jalan Kelulut. Turn left onto Jalan Kelulut. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 25 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Buangkok MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Buangkok MRT Station (Stop ID 67601). Take bus number 104. Alight 6 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to Jalan Kelulut. Turn left onto Jalan Kelulut. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 16 minutes. [Map]