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
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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]

Seorae Jib @ Plaza Singapura - Unveils Singapore’s First 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal

Known for its expertly hay-smoked meats, Seorae Jib introduces a novel way to savour Korean barbecue with its 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal, also known as the “Flower Pork Belly”. I visited the Plaza Singapura outlet to experience this meticulous preparation that elevates the humble pork belly into something quite extraordinary.

The highlight here is undoubtedly the premium Canadian air-flown pork belly, painstakingly scored with over 100 precise knife cuts. During our visit, the chef presented the slab and demonstrated the intricate cutting technique, which transforms the meat into a mesh-like structure. This not only tenderises the pork but also allows heat to penetrate more evenly during grilling.

As the pork hits the grill, the cuts open up and curl slightly, forming a “flower” shape. The result is a beautifully caramelised exterior with crisp edges, while the interior remains juicy and succulent. Enjoying a piece on its own allows the natural sweetness of the pork fat to shine, complemented by a delicate smokiness from the grill. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying bite that showcases the quality of the meat and the precision behind its preparation.

We tried the 100 Knife Cuts Kkot BBQ Set 700g ($118, with 20% off from 1 May to 30 June 2026), which offers excellent value and variety. Alongside the signature pork belly, the set includes:

● 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeobsal
● 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Nuruk Moksal
● Galmaegisal (Original)
● Woosamgyeob
● Choice of Japchae, Mul Naengmyeon, or Bibim Naengmyeon
● Cheesy Gyeran Jjim
● Optional Jjigae (Kimchi, Sundubu or Doenjang) at $10

Subak Mocktail

In celebration of Parents’ Day from 1 May to 30 June 2026, diners can enjoy a complimentary Subak (watermelon) Mocktail (U.P. $17.90) in May when dining with mum and ordering the BBQ set. Simply snap a photo of feeding your mum, tag the restaurant on social media, and present it in-store for redemption. June continues the festivities with Father’s Day specials.

Japchae, Cheesy Gyeran Jjim

For our carb option, we went with the Japchae, featuring springy glass noodles tossed in a lightly sweet soy-based sauce with vegetables. It’s well-balanced and comforting, providing a pleasant contrast to the richness of the grilled meats.

The Cheesy Gyeran Jjim arrives piping hot and fluffy, almost soufflé-like, with a layer of melted cheese adding extra savouriness. It’s soft, airy and incredibly moreish — perfect for rounding out the meal.

To elevate the experience, Seorae Jib offers 10 different ways to enjoy the Kkot Samgyeopsal. From dipping it into house-made meljeot (anchovy sauce), wrapping it in lettuce with pungent leek salad, pairing it with marinated squid and seaweed, or even combining it with grilled tortilla and melted cheese — each variation brings out a different dimension of flavour and texture.

The Kkot Nuruk Moksal (pork collar) carries a slightly firmer bite with a deeper, savoury profile, while the Galmaegisal (pork skirt) is prized for its tenderness and rich flavour. The Woosamgyeob, thinly sliced beef belly, cooks quickly and delivers a luscious, melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Seorae Jib’s 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal is more than just a gimmick — it’s a thoughtfully executed technique that genuinely enhances the texture and flavour of the pork. The interplay of crispy edges and a juicy interior, combined with multiple ways to enjoy it, makes for a dynamic and engaging Korean BBQ experience. With its value-for-money set and limited-time promotions, this is one experience that Korean barbecue enthusiasts would not want to miss.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


SEORAE JIB
Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road
#02-01
SIngapore 238839
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS, Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit D, E or F. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Baia @ Esplanade Mall - Rooftop Dining with Marina Bay Views and Mediterranean Fare Under $30

Baia at Esplanade Mall is a rooftop dining lounge bar by the ilLido Group. It has recently revamped its menu, introducing a refreshed lineup of Mediterranean dishes available for both lunch and dinner. The menu is thoughtfully structured, spanning bar bites, starters, mains, and desserts, with concise selections for each course. All food and cocktails are kept under $30, alongside a rotating three-course weekday lunch set ($28++), which further enhances its appeal for daytime dining.

Hamachi Tartare 4.5/5

We started with an elegantly plated Hamachi Tartare ($16), topped with salmon pearls. The dressing was vibrant and herbaceous, with acidity, and the saltiness of the ikura complemented the diced hamachi, creating a bright and tantalising start.

Duck Samosas 4.8/5

Moving on to richer flavours, we had the Duck Samosas ($18) with whipped foie gras and pistachios, as well as the Mezze Platter ($24). The duck filling in the samosas was deeply satisfying, reminiscent of a duck rillette. At the same time, the slightly funky whipped foie gras was velvety and luscious, adding depth and mouthfeel to each bite.

Mezze Platter 5/5

The Mezze Platter was particularly moreish, featuring six distinct dips — from whipped feta and avocado hummus to muhammara (roasted red pepper dip), baba ganoush, and tzatziki with olives and pickled peppers. Each component was vibrant and flavourful, making the platter highly addictive. The pita, aromatic and fluffy, is worth an additional order ($8) to fully enjoy the dips.

Pacific Halibut 3.8/5

For mains, the Pacific Halibut ($26) was served with pumpkin bisque and topped with maitake mushrooms. While the fish fillet was rather bland, the pumpkin bisque lent a subtle crustacean sweetness, while the maitake added a pleasant chew and earthy depth.

Grilled Octopus 4.5/5

The Grilled Octopus ($29) came glazed with a lip-smacking cowboy butter, a compound butter zingy with garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and spices such as smoked paprika, cayenne, and chilli flakes. The octopus was well-executed with a nice char, and the addition of Brussels sprouts provided a delectable textural bite and balance to the dish.

Knickerbocker Glory 5/5

Dessert was a satisfying throwback in the form of a Knickerbocker Glory ($18). Originating in the 1920s, this classic layered ice cream sundae is traditionally served in a tall conical glass with a long spoon and is particularly popular in Great Britain and Ireland, I learnt. Baia’s version struck a nice balance of sweetness and fruitiness, layered with fresh cream, vanilla ice cream, mango, and raspberries, and topped with mini cheesecakes and macarons for an indulgent finish.

Baia offers a relaxing view of Marina Bay paired with a beautifully designed interior, making it well-suited for both daytime and evening dining. Their cocktail menu is also worth exploring, featuring a mix of familiar classics and creative house signatures.

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.


Baia
Esplanade Mall
Level 4
8 Raffles Avenue
Singapore 039802
Tel: +65 9173 8182
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 1130am - 12midnight
Tue-Thu: 1130am - 1am
Fri-Sat: 1130 - 2am

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B or D. Walk to Raffles Avenue. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Lo Hey HK Seafood @ One Holland Village - Launches Cantonese Sizzling Claypot Series and Hairy Crab Roe Noodles

In celebration of its first anniversary, Lo Hey HK Seafood at One Holland Village unveils its new Cantonese Sizzling Claypot Series, a line-up of over 20 cook-to-order dishes inspired by the comforting, high-heat claypot cooking found in Hong Kong’s neighbourhood dai pai dongs. Each dish is fired to order, arriving at the table bubbling and aromatic, capturing the essence of wok hei within the confines of a claypot.

Signature Hairy Crab Roe Noodles 4.2/5

Leading the new additions is the Signature Hairy Crab Roe Noodles ($22.80). Cloaked in a thick, golden sauce made from a generous blend of hairy crab roe and meat, equivalent to about three crabs per portion, the noodles are luxuriously coated in a buttery, velvety emulsion. The sauce delivers a deep umami richness with a natural sweetness from the roe, creating an indulgent, almost creamy finish. Midway through, a drizzle of the accompanying black vinegar works wonders, cutting through the richness with a gentle acidity that lifts and refreshes the palate.

Double Boiled Coconut Chicken Soup 4.5/5

The Double Boiled Coconut Chicken Soup ($14.80) offers a soothing contrast. Served within a whole young coconut, the broth is a harmonious blend of naturally sweet coconut water and slow-simmered chicken stock, lightly infused with Chinese herbs. The result is a clear yet flavourful soup that is both nourishing and refreshing, with tender chicken pieces nestled within. The natural sweetness from the coconut remains clean and restrained, complementing rather than overpowering the savoury depth of the broth.

Claypot Black Pepper Angus Beef Slices 4.5/5

Among the claypot highlights, the Claypot Black Pepper Angus Beef Slices ($24.80) impresses with both aroma and texture. Served sizzling hot, the beef slices are tender with lightly caramelised edges from the intense heat of the claypot. The black pepper sauce is robust yet balanced, aromatic and savoury without excessive heat, allowing the natural flavours of the beef to shine through.

Sizzling Chicken Claypot with Ginger 4/5

The Sizzling Chicken Claypot with Ginger ($16.80) distinguishes itself by using sand ginger instead of the usual old ginger. This lends a warmer, more rounded fragrance that is savoury rather than sharp. The chicken benefits from the searing heat of the claypot, achieving lightly crisped edges while remaining succulent and juicy within.

Claypot Squid with Shiso Leaf 4.5/5

Equally noteworthy is the Claypot Squid with Shiso Leaf ($18.80). The squid is expertly scored and flash-cooked at high temperatures, resulting in a tender yet pleasantly bouncy texture with lightly charred edges. The inclusion of shiso leaf adds a unique dimension: its bright, herbaceous notes, with hints of mint and citrus, cut through the savoury sauce, elevating the dish beyond the usual zi char rendition.

Tai O Shrimp Paste Choy Sum 4/5

For vegetables, the Tai O Shrimp Paste Choy Sum ($14.80) delivers a punchy balance of flavours. The greens retain their crunch and natural sweetness, while the fermented shrimp paste imparts a bold, umami-laden depth. Slight caramelisation from the claypot further enhances the savoury profile.

Salted Egg Japanese Pumpkin in Claypot 4.2/5

The Salted Egg Japanese Pumpkin in Claypot ($12.80) showcases the use of kabocha pumpkin, prized for its naturally sweet, chestnut-like flavour and firm texture. The salted egg yolk sauce clings beautifully to each piece, its buttery and savoury richness complementing the pumpkin’s earthy sweetness. Subtle hints of chilli and curry leaves add just enough complexity to keep the dish from becoming overly rich.

Claypot Pork Belly with Pickled Chillies 4.2/5

For something more robust, the Claypot Pork Belly with Pickled Chillies ($16.80) offers a satisfying interplay of flavours. Thinly sliced pork belly is seared until lightly charred, with the fat rendered to a melt-in-the-mouth consistency. The pickled chillies introduce a tangy, vinegary brightness with a hint of fermentation, effectively cutting through the richness and refreshing the palate.

Claypot Lemongrass Prawn Balls 4.5/5

Rounding off the highlights is the Claypot Lemongrass Prawn Balls ($22.80). Generously sized prawn balls are flash-seared to achieve a lightly crisp exterior while retaining a juicy, springy interior. Bruised lemongrass releases fragrant citrusy oils into the claypot, infusing the dish with a bright, floral aroma that lingers enticingly.

Overall, Lo Hey’s Cantonese Sizzling Claypot Series delivers both variety and finesse, capturing the spirit of Hong Kong-style claypot cooking with well-executed techniques and thoughtful flavour pairings. The dishes excel in showcasing the interplay of high heat, bold aromatics, and comforting textures, making this a satisfying and timely addition to the restaurant’s menu.


Note: This is an invited tasting.


Lo Hey HK Seafood
One Holland Village
#03-22/23/24
7 Holland Village Way
Singapore 275748
Tel: +65 6592 2699
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Lorong Liput. Turn right onto Lorong Liput. Walk down Lorong Liput. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]