Basil King @ Jurong West - Fiery Thai Basil Rice with Up to Four Sunny Side Up Eggs

Fans of Thai basil rice will be excited to know that Basil King, a Pad Kra Pao speciality stall, has been making its presence felt with five outlets islandwide — located at Yishun, Ang Mo Kio, Jurong West, Tampines, and Punggol Central. I visited their Jurong West outlet to check out what the hype is about.

At Basil King, the concept is simple and focused. Customers get to choose from four main proteins: Pork, Chicken, Beef, and Prawn. You also get to customise your meal with up to four fried eggs and a spice level ranging from 1 to 5.

Basil Pork with Double Egg 4/5

My dining companion went for the Basil Pork with Double Egg ($7.90). The first thing that caught our eyes was the perfectly fried sunny-side-up eggs with their golden yolks, which are irresistible. The minced pork was stir-fried with fragrant Thai basil and a punchy sauce blend of soy, fish sauce, and chilli. We chose spice level 3, which turned out pretty fiery, even for someone with a decent spice tolerance. The sauce soaked into the rice beautifully, making every bite satisfying and flavour-packed.

Basil Beef with Triple Egg 4/5

I opted for the Basil Beef with Triple Egg ($10.90) because why not go all out? The beef is not minced but served in tender slices, offering a more substantial bite and texture compared to the pork. The same signature sauce is used here, delivering a bold, savoury, and spicy kick that hits the spot. The triple egg combo added that extra indulgence and helped mellow out the heat from the spice level 3.

While the food hits the mark for flavour and value, I couldn't help but notice the stall's branding and presentation. From the logo to the plateware, the entire aesthetic bears a striking resemblance to Phed Mark, the popular pad kra pao spot in Thailand, founded by Thai food YouTuber Mark Wiens. It might not be the most original concept, but as long as it delivers delicious, comforting Thai flavours at affordable prices, I'm not complaining.


Basil King
Blk 496 Jurong West Street 41
#01-84
Singapore 640496
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Nearest MRT: Lakeside (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Lakeside MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road and walk to bus stop opposite Lakeside MRT station. Take bus number 98 or 187. Alight 4 stops later. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Mr Grumpy by Fiie's Cafe @ Holland Drive - Famous Crispy Fried Chicken Rice From Lucky Plaza

Mr Grumpy by Fiie's Cafe, located at Holland Drive, is the latest outpost from the team behind the famed Nasi Ayam Goreng at Lucky Plaza. It's hard to miss the stall with its bright yellow signage boldly proclaiming itself as the "No.1 Nasi Ayam Goreng in Town." That cheeky confidence feels like a direct challenge, daring you to try the dish and judge for yourself. The name Mr Grumpy is just as memorable, and for good reason. The owner is known in local food circles as Singapore's 'rudest' nasi ayam goreng seller, a reputation earned from his no-nonsense, straight-talking style at the original Far East outlet. But if there's one thing you can expect, it's that the food does the talking.

Nasi Ayam Goreng 4.5/5

At $6.50, each plate of Nasi Ayam Goreng comes with your choice of thigh or breast meat, deep-fried to a perfect golden brown. The skin is crisp with a generous sprinkle of crunchy batter bits on top, giving every bite a satisfying crackle. Despite being deep-fried, the chicken retains its moisture beautifully. It's tender, juicy, and full of flavour.

The real surprise, though, lies beneath the chicken. The rice, cooked in chicken fat, is fragrant and flavourful, reminiscent of Hainanese chicken rice but with a bolder undertone. It's rich without being greasy and forms a perfect base for the fried chicken. Then there's the sambal, a sweet and spicy concoction that brings the whole dish together. It has just the right amount of heat, laced with a sweetness that doesn't overpower but complements the chicken and rice seamlessly.

Want to elevate your meal? You can add on side items like Sambal Quail, Sambal Hotdog, or Begedil for just $1 each. These small extras round off the meal nicely, adding more variety and indulgence.

Mr Grumpy may be gruff, but he's not messing around when it comes to his food. This plate of Nasi Ayam Goreng hits all the right notes: crispy, juicy chicken, flavourful rice, and a punchy sambal that keeps you coming back for more. The bold signage outside may come off as a gimmick, but once you've tried it, you might agree that this unassuming stall deserves its claim to fame.


My Grumpy by Fiie's Cafe
Blk 43 Holland Drive
#01-75
Singapore 270043
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Nearest MRT: Bouna Vista (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 8pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit A. Follow the underpass to the other side of the road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Chef's Tavern @ Craig Road - Affordably Priced Exquiste European-Japanese Cuisine

Chef Stephan Zoisl, previously of Chef's Table at Tras Street, returns with a brand-new concept – Chef's Tavern, a casual European-Japanese eatery tucked along Craig Road. Unlike the Western Omakase experience at his former restaurant, Chef's Tavern offers a more approachable menu built around premium ingredients, well-executed dishes, and warm hospitality.

Tavern Style Teishoku Sets 4.2/5

The Tavern Style Teishoku Sets are available during lunch (Mon–Sat, 12pm – 230pm) from $28++, and offer excellent value. Each set comes with a choice of rotating mains, such as pork or monkfish, served alongside salad, soup, vegetables, fruit and a choice of sourdough or Japanese rice. A satisfying and wholesome one-tray meal that combines quality produce and comforting flavours.

Hokkaido Scallop Crudo 4/5

A refreshing and vibrant start was the Hokkaido Scallop Crudo ($19). Stuffed with mint and shiso, the sweet scallops were paired with a tangy mango leche de tigre, pomelo sacs, calamansi juice, and topped with trout roe and avocado cream. Bright, zesty and texturally pleasing.

Hamachi Sashimi 4/5

The Hamachi Sashimi ($18) was clean and simple, allowing the freshness of the fish to shine through. Paired with lightly pickled vegetables and grapes compressed in sweet Austrian wine, this was a light and elegant appetiser to whet the appetite.

Anchovy Puff Pastry 4/5

The Anchovy Puff Pastry ($12) was another favourite. Ricotta cream and savoury anchovy on a crispy puff base, finished with olives. It had great flavour contrast and texture in each bite.

Prawn & Lobster Ramen 3.8/5

The Prawn & Lobster Ramen ($24) came with a rich, house-made lobster bisque broth simmered over 24 hours. It was packed with deep umami and sweetness, paired with juicy Argentine prawns and an onsen egg. While I enjoyed the broth, the ramen noodles were a little too soft for my liking.

Cold Kombu Angel Hair Pasta 4.2/5

A signature dish here is the Cold Kombu Angel Hair Pasta ($22). Chilled angel hair pasta is dressed in a tom kha coconut and lobster bisque sauce, topped with warm Argentine prawns and crispy artichoke chips, and finished with kombu, chives and lemongrass. It is a cold dish that is packed with flavour.

Schnitzel 'Wiener Art' 4.2/5

Chef Stephan pays homage to his Austrian roots with the Schnitzel 'Wiener Art' ($28). Pork loin coated in kaisersemmel breadcrumbs and deep-fried to golden perfection. It came with a butterhead lettuce salad in a citrusy vinaigrette, cranberry jam, fried capers, and anchovy brown butter, a delightful European take on comfort food.

Maple Leaf Duck Breast 4/5

The Maple Leaf Duck Breast ($32) was perfectly cooked, tender and juicy. Underneath the slices was a rich duck leg confit and duck jus. The dish was lifted with a mix of caramelised onion cream, shallot crumble, charred leek, pickled pearl onions and chive oil. It was a well-balanced and hearty plate.

Alaskan Black Cod 4.2/5

A standout dish was the Alaskan Black Cod ($34). Pan-roasted with a crisp exterior and buttery interior, it was paired with earthy salt-baked celery root. The Madras curry beurre blanc and passionfruit gel added aromatic spice and acidity, finished with trout roe and tarragon oil.

Pina Colada 4/5

The Piña Colada ($14) dessert was a fun play on the tropical cocktail. Coconut parfait, pineapple sorbet, rum caramelised pineapple and gula melaka sauce, all layered with crisp filo pastry. It was refreshing and not too sweet.

White Peach Mousse 3.8/5

The White Peach Mousse ($14) came with white peach compote, oolong ice cream, buttery sable and berries in berry gel. Light and fruity, though the flavours were more subtle compared to the other desserts.

Chocolate Gateau 4.2/5

For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Gateau ($16) was an indulgent treat featuring multiple layers of chocolate mousse and glaze. Served with yuzu sorbet, yuzu gel, cocoa nibs, chocolate chantilly and popping candy. It is a well-thought-out dessert with different textures and a citrusy lift.

Chef's Tavern by Chef Stephan Zoisl is a great addition to the Craig Road dining scene. Whether you're looking for a value-for-money lunch or refined dinner plates, the dishes here deliver comfort, flavour and finesse without being overly fussy. It's a hidden gem worth checking out.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chef's Tavern
Craig Place
20 Craig Road
#01-02
Singapore 089692
Tel: +65 6224 4188
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 930pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchid Hotel. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Continue on Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road and walk to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Turn right onto Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Broth & Beyond Hot Pot @ Chijmes - Yunnan Ecological Hotpot Concept, Available Till 2.30am Daily

Joining the vibrant dining scene at CHIJMES is Broth & Beyond Hot Pot, a Yunnan-inspired individual hotpot concept that remains open daily until 230am.

The restaurant takes pride in offering MSG and preservative-free broths and ingredients at wallet-friendly prices.

Broth & Beyond Hot Pot 4/5

We opted for the Black Truffle & Eight-Mushroom Broth and the Golden Fungus Chicken Broth. Both are brewed in-house using natural ingredients, including produce flown in from Yunnan. Diners can also choose from five other exciting broths, such as 100% Pure Coconut Chicken, Spicy Broth, and Vegetarian Tom Yum, all created under the direction of their head chef.

The Black Truffle & Eight-Mushroom Broth offered earthy depth with a subtle umami lift from the black truffle, all made from a base of Yunnan mushrooms and chicken fat.

Meanwhile, the Golden Fungus Chicken Broth was creamy and nourishing. The individual hotpots are perfect for accommodating personal preferences.

Market Table

A standout feature is the Market Table, available for just $4.99 per diner, which grants access to a rotating selection of condiments, appetisers, fruits, and desserts. During our visit, the appetisers included house-made kimchi and mala king oyster mushrooms, reminiscent of another well-loved hot pot chain.

Yunnan Delicacy Mushroom Platter

We couldn't leave without trying their signature Yunnan Delicacy Mushroom Platter ($28.99), featuring lesser-seen varieties such as golden fungus, wine cap mushrooms, and chanterelles.

Seafood Platter

For seafood enthusiasts, the Seafood Platter ($43.99) had a mix of tiger prawns, scallops, abalone, mussels, and grouper slices. While pricey, we thoroughly appreciated the freshness and sweetness of the seafood in each item.

Jasmine Flower Shrimp Paté

The handcrafted Jasmine Flower Shrimp Paté ($18.99) was a highlight for us. Unlike the usual prawn paste, this had a delicate floral note infused within. The cooked shrimp paste was nicely springy with a bite.

Tri-Coloured Hand Crafted La Mian

For carbs, the Tri-Coloured Hand Crafted La Mian ($8.99), which had a chewy texture, was served in a portion sufficient for two to three people.

Fragrant Fermented Beancurd Chicken Wings 4/5

For sides, we tried out the Fragrant Fermented Beancurd Chicken Wings ($13.99), which were marinated in Yunnan spices and fermented Beancurd. They were enjoyable on their own, though they also came with tartar sauce for an optional twist.

To end the meal, we returned to the Market Table for dessert, where we could choose from sticks of candied hawthorn or create our own DIY Ice Jelly bowl. Toppings ranged from red bean and osmanthus jelly to taro balls and adorably shaped marshmallows.

If you're looking to try Broth & Beyond, consider their lunch set menu, the Flavour Discovery Set. Starting from $29.90 and available daily from 1130am to 5pm, each set includes a broth of your choice, meat, vegetables, noodles or rice, plus access to the Market Table.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Broth & Beyond
CHIJMES
30 Victoria Street
#B1-02
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 8220 7993
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
11.30am to 2.30am Daily

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut across Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road, cross the road to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk southwards towards Victoria Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and Victoria Road, cross the junction to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Altro Zafferano @ Ocean Financial Centre - A Bright and Bold Refreshed Menu in Celebration of Southern Italian Flavours

Altro Zafferano, perched atop Ocean Financial Centre, returns with a refreshed dining concept centred on everyday social dining. Known for its refined Italian cuisine, the restaurant now embraces a more vibrant and approachable experience, bringing the warmth, boldness, and sun-soaked flavours of Southern Italy to the heart of Singapore's CBD. With a bright Mediterranean spirit and a reimagined menu, Altro Zafferano continues to impress with culinary finesse and soulful, honest cooking.

Pomodoro e Basilico 4/5

We started with the Pomodoro e Basilico ($15), a comforting focaccia that embodies the rustic charm of Italy. Made in-house with sourdough and baked until golden, the base is topped with sweet Neapolitan tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The tomatoes are the star. They are plump, juicy, and bursting with natural sweetness, elevating this humble starter with their vibrant, sun-ripened flavour.

Insalata di Polpo e Patate 4.2/5

The Insalata di Polpo e Patate ($28) showcases a tender Mediterranean octopus paired with baby potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a medley of herbs like parsley, chervil, and chives. The light gremolata dressing lifts the dish with citrusy brightness and herbal freshness, tying all the components together into a well-balanced appetiser that awakens the palate.

Carpaccio di Manzo, Pecorino e Senape 4.2/5

The Carpaccio di Manzo ($26) features Australian grain-fed beef sliced and rolled with rocket leaves, pecorino cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Topped with finely chopped shallots and dressed in a whole grain mustard vinaigrette, each bite is a complex interplay of peppery greens, savoury cheese, tangy balsamic, and tender beef. It is a refined starter with great textural contrast and depth.

Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese 4.5/5

A standout from the pasta section, the Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese ($36) is rich, hearty, and comforting. The artisanal pasta from Southern Italy is coated in a slow-cooked Genovese ragu made from onions and Australian Wagyu beef, simmered in red wine for six hours. Finished with parmesan, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary, this dish delivers soul-soothing depth and perfect al dente texture.

Rigatoni alla Gricia 4/5

Prepared tableside for a bit of flair, the Rigatoni alla Gricia ($36 per pax) is a decadent experience. The pasta is tossed inside a pecorino cheese wheel, soaking up all the rich, salty goodness, then topped with crispy guanciale and a bold pepper blend of Sichuan and black pepper. A luxurious treat especially for cheese lovers, balanced by the smoky-savoury punch of guanciale.

Tagliata di Manzo, Rucola e Balsamico 4.2/5

For mains, the Tagliata di Manzo ($68) is a masterclass in simplicity done right. The Black Angus grain-fed striploin is grilled over a Josper to seal in juices and flavour, seasoned with rosemary oil, thyme, and fennel seeds, and finished with a drizzle of Lambrusco balsamico. Served alongside fresh Italian rocket and cherry tomatoes, the dish is full-bodied, tender, and focused entirely on letting the quality of the beef shine.

Branzino all'Acqua Pazza 4.5/5

The Branzino all’Acqua Pazza ($58) was another highlight. The beautifully deboned Sardinian seabass, reassembled with the head and tail intact and baked in a delicate broth of vegetable stock, tomatoes, white wine, olives, and parsley. Finished with extra virgin olive oil and Amalfi lemon, the fish is moist and flaky, its flavours lifted by the bright citrus and briny broth. Elegant and satisfying.

Tiramisu 4.5/5

We ended on a high note with the Tiramisu ($24). This refined rendition layers mascarpone cream with gluten-free Savoiardi biscuits, soaked in espresso, orange peel, and a touch of Cointreau, then dusted with cocoa. The dessert is smooth and light, offering just the right balance of bitterness and sweetness, a sophisticated and well-balanced end to the meal.

With its reimagined focus on approachable yet elevated Southern Italian cuisine, Altro Zafferano offers a vibrant dining experience that blends tradition with creativity. Whether you’re here for a business lunch, romantic dinner, or a weekend indulgence, the restaurant’s new menu invites you to savour Italy’s bold flavours in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Altro Zafferano
Ocean Financial Centre
Level 43
10 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049315
Tel: +65 65091488
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm)
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place. Take Exit C. Walk to Ocean Financial Centre which is on the left. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]