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.

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.


Permata
73 Sultan Gate
Singapore 198497
Tel: +65 9082 9941
Facebook
Instagram
Website
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]

Numb Restaurant (川麻记) @ Marina One - New Seasonal “Wild Origins” Menu, A Refined Journey Through Southwest China

Nestled within the lush greenery and cascading waterfalls of Marina One, NUMB offers a dining experience that feels like a quiet escape from the city. With its latest seasonal menu, “Wild Origins”, the restaurant invites diners to reconnect with the raw, untamed flavours of Southwest China, drawing inspiration from the mountainous regions of Yunnan, Guizhou and Sichuan.

Yunnan Wild Mushroom Black Chicken Soup 4.5/5

A comforting and nourishing start to the meal, the Yunnan Wild Mushroom Black Chicken Soup ($24.80, for 2–3 pax) is inspired by the forest abundance of Yunnan. Slow-simmered black chicken is paired with prized wild mushrooms such as porcini, agaricus and cordyceps flowers, resulting in a deeply aromatic broth that feels both restorative and delicately layered.

Sichuan Spiced Grilled Beef with Lettuce Wraps 3.8/5

The Sichuan Spiced Grilled Beef with Lettuce Wraps ($30.80) features char-grilled beef seasoned with aromatic Sichuan spices, served with fresh lettuce for wrapping. While the beef itself is tender, it felt slightly underpowered on its own. The accompanying sauce and spice mix are essential to bring out the full flavour. Larger lettuce leaves would also improve the overall eating experience, making it easier to wrap and enjoy each bite.

Marbled Wagyu Beef in Traditional Guizhou Sour Soup 4/5

This dish offers a contrasting profile to the earlier soup. The Marbled Wagyu Beef in Traditional Guizhou Sour Soup ($42.80) features premium wagyu slices simmered in a fermented broth. The result is a refined balance of tangy acidity, mellow spice and umami richness, complemented by mushrooms and tender beef. It’s a comforting yet complex dish that showcases the depth of regional flavours well.

Signature Sizzling Fish Fillet with Tofu 4.5/5

A standout of the meal, the Signature Sizzling Fish Fillet with Tofu ($49.80) is filled with tender fish slices and tofu in a fragrant, spicy broth. The fish is incredibly soft and delicate, while the tofu absorbs the broth beautifully. The dish is rich in aroma and layered heat, though adding a contrasting texture, such as vegetables or vermicelli, would elevate it even further.

NUMB also introduces a range of seasonal beverages inspired by wild fruits and botanical notes. We tried three:

• Wampi & Hog Plum Jasmine Iced Tea
• Pink Guava & Green Grapes Jasmine Tea
• Green Plum & Starfruit with Yunnan Olive

Each drink was light, refreshing and well-balanced, offering a nice contrast to the bold, spice-forward dishes. Priced at only $5.80 each.

To celebrate the launch of “Wild Origins”, NUMB is offering a limited-time Membership Top-Up Promotion at its Marina One outlet, with perks such as dining discounts, bonus credits and waived corkage.

Overall, the menu delivers a thoughtful exploration of Southwest Chinese flavours, balancing boldness with refinement. It’s a great spot for gatherings, whether for casual meals or more intimate group dining, especially if you’re looking for something that goes beyond the usual Sichuan fare.

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


Numb Restaurant (川麻记)
Marina One West Tower
5 Straits View
#01-12
Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 9460 1960
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line), Marina Bay (CC, NS, TE Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at the Downtown MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Straits View. Turn right onto Straits View. Walk down Straits View. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Marina Bay MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn left onto Commerce Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Vineyard @ Hortpark - All-You-Can-Eat A La Carte French Buffet at $58

Vineyard at Hortpark serves up French cuisine with a touch of local flair. The restaurant is currently running a promotion for its All-You-Can-Eat à la carte French Buffet at $58++ (U.P. $98++). The menu entices with a range of starters, including classics such as Duck Rillette and Moules Marinières, comforting soups and salads, and mains featuring iconic dishes such as Duck Leg Confit and Steak Frites.

Gruyère Cheese Zucchini Croquette 4/5

The Gruyère Cheese Zucchini Croquette arrived golden and crisp, with rich, oozy cheese complemented by julienned zucchini. The filling could have been less wet for a better texture, and given its richness, a mustard-based sauce might have worked more effectively than the French ranch drizzle to cut through and balance the flavours.

Country-Style French Duck Rillette 4.5/5

One of our favourites was the Country-Style French Duck Rillette — meaty and unctuous without being overly fatty.

Mushroom Pâté 3/5

The Mushroom Pâté with Apricot Compote was delectable, though we found it slightly on the sweeter side.

Ah Hua Kelong Mussels Marinière 4.8/5

Embracing the ethos of farm-to-table dining, Vineyard also sources produce locally, creating dishes such as the Ah Hua Kelong Mussels Marinière. The white wine butter sauce was incredibly full-bodied and flavourful, making this an excellent showcase of our local mussels.

Vegetable Garbure Soup 5/5

The humble Vegetable Garbure Soup was another highlight of our experience. A traditional dish from Gascony in southwestern France, it was prepared with GG French Poulet broth, giving the soup a full-bodied depth of flavour, gently laced with subtle smokiness from the chunks of smoked ham. Brimming with vegetables, the wholesome soup also featured Ravioles du Dauphiné, adding an extra layer of texture and richness to the dish.

Vineyard Salad 5/5

Vineyard Salad was a plateful of wholesome ingredients that delighted with both freshness and textural crunch. Homegrown greens, watermelon radish, cucumber, and tomatoes brought refreshing notes, complemented by the earthy sweetness of roasted beetroot and bursts of zest from orange slices. Creamy feta cheese balanced the greens beautifully, while candied walnuts imparted a moreish, sweet-nutty and satisfying crunch in every bite.

French Duck Leg Confit 4.8/5

For mains, the standout was definitely the French Duck Leg Confit, one of the better versions I have had in a long time. The moist and tender duck meat contrasted beautifully with its crisp exterior, brilliantly complemented by a zesty L’Orange sauce. The accompanying duck-fat-roasted potatoes also hit the right spot, with their fluffy interior and lightly crisped exterior.

Oven-Roasted Great Hill Free Range Chicken Leg 4.5/5

The succulent Oven-Roasted Great Hill Free Range Chicken Leg was another crowd-pleaser, paired with a mustard brown sauce that elevated the dish with tantalising savoury notes. It was served with the same indulgent duck-fat-roasted potatoes, which were equally satisfying.

Steak Frites 3/5

As for the Steak Frites featuring a Grass-Fed Striploin, while the steak itself was enjoyable, the brandy peppercorn sauce did not quite complement the meat as well as we had hoped. What truly stood out were the handcrafted French fries, reminiscent of exceptionally good double-fried Belgian fries cooked in beef fat.

Limoncello Tiramisu 4.2/5

For dessert, the Limoncello Tiramisu was a delight. Crafted with lemon curd, finger sponge, and limoncello, it offered bright citrusy notes, beautifully balanced by a contrasting caramelised, buttery sweetness from the Speculoos crumbs.

Altogether, it had been a satisfying dining experience marked by a few memorable highlights that made it well worth a visit. This à la carte French buffet is available for dinner only on Monday to Friday and all day on the weekends.

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.


Vineyard
Hortpark
33 Hyderabad Road
#02-02
Singapore 119578
Tel: +65 6479 7977
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Blangah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1030am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Blangah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the bus stop at Telok Blangah MRT station (Stop ID14161). Take bus number 61, 93, 97, 100, 120, 166 or 963. Alight 4 stops later. Walk to Hyderabad Road. Walk up Hyderabad Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 15 minutes. [Map]

Quan Hotpot @ Hotel Michael - A Refined Five Elements Hotpot Experience

Located at Resorts World Sentosa, Quan Hotpot is a contemporary dining concept that offers a refined take on the traditional hotpot experience. Situated within Hotel Michael (Level 1), the restaurant emphasises balanced flavours and sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, guided by the Chinese philosophy of the Five Elements — sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, and salty.

Departing from the communal pot format, Quan Hotpot serves its broths individually, allowing diners to tailor their experience from the outset. The selection is diverse, ranging from the rich Signature Singapore Laksa Broth to the comforting Traditional Congee Broth and Collagen Herbal Chicken Broth. Those who prefer bolder flavours can opt for the Classic Sichuan Mala Broth, while the Heritage Suan Cai Broth offers a tangy, fermented profile.

I went with the Heritage Suan Cai Broth, which delivered a well-balanced tanginess that was both appetising and comforting. The acidity of the preserved mustard greens was gentle yet distinct, lifting the flavours of the accompanying ingredients without overpowering them. It proved to be a versatile base that grew more flavourful as the meal progressed.

Once the broth is selected, the experience becomes interactive with a selection of condiments presented tableside. Diners can mix their own dipping sauces to suit their preferences, adding another layer of personalisation to the meal.

The Signature 4 Element Hotpot Set Menu ($68 per person) offers a comprehensive spread, covering premium meats, seafood, vegetables, housemade items, noodles, and dessert. It is a well-curated selection that balances variety and quality.

The Premium Meat Selection includes Organic Australian Pork Belly, US “CAB” Beef Short Plates, Kampong Chicken Thigh, and Sliced Salt Grass-Fed Australian Lamb Shoulder. Each was thinly sliced for quick cooking, with the beef short plate standing out for its tenderness and marbling, while the pork belly offered a satisfying balance of fat and lean.

The Premium Fresh Seafood Selection features Live Tiger Prawns, Hokkaido Scallops, Fish Slices, and Live Korean Abalone. The prawns were firm and naturally sweet, while the scallops were plump and delicate. The abalone added a touch of indulgence, with a tender bite and subtle briny sweetness.

The Vegetable Selection was equally satisfying, comprising Bok Choy, Napa Cabbage, Spinach, King Oyster and Shiitake Mushrooms, along with Beancurd Roll, Silken Tofu, Potato, and Sweet Corn. Fresh and vibrant, the assortment provided a good balance to the meal’s richer components.

A highlight in both presentation and texture is the 5 Elements Fish Noodles, served in striking hues of orange, purple, yellow, black, and green. Beyond their visual appeal, the noodles offered a delightful chew and springy bite, making them a fun addition to the hotpot.

The dessert was less impressive. The Flamed Meringue Ice Cream arrived with a theatrical flourish but leaned overly sweet, overshadowing the ice cream beneath. The Fresh Fruit platter provided a lighter finish, though the fruits lacked the sweetness expected to round off the meal on a stronger note.

Overall, Quan Hotpot delivers a polished and thoughtfully executed hotpot experience. Its focus on individual broths, quality ingredients, and a balanced flavour philosophy sets it apart, making it a compelling option for those seeking a more refined take on this comforting dining tradition.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Quan Hotpot
Hotel Michael
Level 1
8 Sentosa Gateway
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6577 6665
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 5pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Vivocity Level 3 to Vivocity Monorail Station. Take the Monorail to Sentosa. Alight at Resorts World Station. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 15 minutes. [Map]