Hikiniku To Come @ Vivocity - Tokyo’s Cult Hamburg Steak Experience Lands at Singapore

Acclaimed Japanese dining concept Hikiniku To Come officially opened its first Singapore outpost at VivoCity on 29 May 2026, bringing with it a cult-followed “hamburg steak-on-rice” experience from Tokyo’s Kichijoji district. Known for its unwavering focus on simplicity, precision and freshness, the brand has elevated what is typically a humble comfort dish into a refined, almost ritualistic dining journey.

At the heart of Hikiniku To Come’s philosophy is an obsessive attention to detail. The beef is ground fresh in-house daily under strict temperature control in a dedicated room, ensuring optimal freshness and food safety. Each patty is then hand-shaped using a distinctive “popping” technique that minimises heat transfer from the hands, preserving the meat’s integrity. Made exclusively from 100% Japanese beef selected for its ideal balance of richness and flavour, the patties are grilled over binchotan charcoal and served within seconds of cooking — a meticulous process that guarantees consistency in both texture and taste.

The menu is intentionally minimalistic, offering a single Signature Set Meal ($27.90++) centred on three hamburg steaks, each served one at a time. This staggered progression transforms the meal into a thoughtfully paced sensory experience, where each patty is enjoyed at its peak and approached differently to highlight its nuanced flavour profile.

Potato Salad with Minced Meat 4.2/5

Raw Kimchi 3.5/5

We began with a couple of side dishes — Potato Salad with Minced Meat ($7.90) and Raw Kimchi ($7.90) — to complement the meal. The Potato Salad with Minced Meat is comforting and hearty, enriched with savoury minced meat that adds depth to the creamy potato base. It strikes a satisfying balance between indulgence and texture, making it more substantial than your typical Japanese potato salad. The Raw Kimchi, on the other hand, offers a lighter, refreshing contrast. Its clean, mildly tangy profile provides a palate cleanser between bites of the rich hamburg steaks, though it leans towards the subtle side in terms of punch.

Hamburg Steak 4/5

The star of the show is undoubtedly the Hamburg Steak. Each patty arrives sizzling hot, placed atop a bowl of fluffy Japanese rice. Diners are encouraged to savour the first patty as is, allowing the beef’s natural flavours to shine. The meat is incredibly moist and juicy, with a pronounced smokiness from the binchotan charcoal. As it rests on the rice, the juices seep into the grains below, subtly enhancing each bite with savoury depth.

For the second patty, diners are guided to pair it with grated radish and a drizzle of the housemade ponzu. This combination introduces a bright, citrusy lift that cuts through the richness of the beef, offering a refreshing contrast that reawakens the palate.

The third and final patty invites a more indulgent finish. Diners can dip the meat into a glossy beaten egg yolk or mix the yolk with soy sauce into the rice, transforming it into a luxurious tamago kake gohan. The creamy richness of the egg, combined with the umami-laden meat juices, creates a deeply satisfying and comforting finale.

Hikiniku To Come is more than just a meal; it is a carefully orchestrated experience that celebrates the beauty of restraint and precision. By focusing on a single dish and perfecting every element, the brand delivers a dining journey that is both comforting and quietly sophisticated — one that invites diners to slow down and appreciate the subtle evolution of flavours from start to finish. As Singapore continues to embrace specialised dining concepts, Hikiniku To Come stands out for its disciplined approach and thoughtful execution. It proves that even the simplest dishes, when treated with care and intention, can be transformed into something truly memorable.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hikiniku To Come
Vivocity
1 Harbourfront Walk
#01-102/103
Singapore 098585
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Lime Restaurant @ PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering Singapore - The Lobsterfest Returns, Spanning Both Local and International Flavours

Lobsterfest returns to Lime Restaurant at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering Singapore, bringing back its extravagant buffet dedicated to one of the ocean’s most prized delicacies. Available exclusively for dinner from 6 July to 6 September 2026, this year’s edition showcases lobster prepared in a multitude of styles, spanning both local and international flavours.

Seafood On Ice station

We kicked off the feast at the impressive Seafood On Ice station, where fresh Boston Lobsters took centre stage alongside an abundant selection of premium seafood, including Korean Snow Crab and other chilled favourites.

Langoustine Parmesan Wheel Risotto

Boston Lobster Thermidor

Among the live stations, the creamy Langoustine Parmesan Wheel Risotto was an indulgence, with sharp Parmesan accenting its creaminess, while the Boston Lobster Thermidor proved to be a crowd favourite. The rich cheesy sauce slathered atop boosted the textural enjoyment of the lobster meat.

Sarawak White Pepper Lobster

Indonesian Lobster Curry

The buffet also celebrates the vibrant flavours across the region with hearty creations such as Sarawak White Pepper Lobster, Indonesian Lobster Curry, and Lobster Claypot Biryani.

Lobster Claypot Biryani

The latter was particularly memorable, featuring fragrant, spice-laden rice that was wonderfully moreish.

Pickering Lobster Laksa

The Pickering Lobster Laksa didn’t disappoint. The laksa gravy was robust and aromatic, delivering plenty of depth to the dish.

Lobster Claw and Sotong Masak Hitam

Over at the signature Peranakan station, the standout dish was the Lobster Claw and Sotong Masak Hitam. The rich, inky squid gravy lent deep umami and briny notes that beautifully complemented the sweetness of the lobster.

LOBSTERFEST AT LIME Buffet Dinner
6 July to 6 September 2026
Monday to Thursday: 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Friday to Sunday: First seating: 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Second seating: 8:30pm - 10:30pm

Dinner Buffet: S$138++ per adult (Monday–Thursday) | S$148++ per adult (Friday–Sunday, Eve of Public Holidays & Public Holidays)
Children aged 6–12 years dine at 50% of the adult price.

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.


Lime Restaurant
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering
3 Upper Pickering Street
Singapore 058289
Tel: +65 6809 8889
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line), Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Dinner Buffet (Daily): 6pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to the junction of Upper Pickering Street and New Bridge Road. Turn right and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to the junction of Upper Pickering Street and New Bridge Road. Cross the road. Turn left and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Leila @ Teck Lim Road - A Contemporary Blend of Middle Eastern and Balkan Flavours

Leila at Teck Lim Road is a gastrobar serving up a vibrant mix of Middle Eastern and Balkan flavours in a stylish, contemporary setting.

Kubana Bread 2/5

Spicy Plate 4/5

We started with the Kubana Bread ($15), a traditional Yemenite Jewish yeasted bread beloved for its pillowy-soft texture. The dough is typically generously layered with butter before being shaped into pull-apart rolls and baked until golden. While ours arrived with an enticing crust and a soft interior, the bread was slightly denser than expected and seemed to lack the rich, buttery flavour that defines a good Kubana. Thankfully, the accompanying tahini and grated tomato helped elevate it, as did the additional Spicy Plate ($13), which featured earthy grilled peppers, smoky harissa and mellow garlic confit that paired well with the bread.

Nabulus Salad 4/5

The Nabulus Salad ($17) is a chopped salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled onions and mint, providing a refreshing accompaniment to the richer dishes.

Manseef 3/5

The Manseef ($33) comprised minced chicken served over a bed of creamy hummus, finished with harissa and an extra drizzle of tahini. While the dish was enjoyable, I felt that lamb or beef would have been a more suitable choice. Their richer, more robust flavour profile carries the Mediterranean spices and aromatics more effectively than chicken does, adding greater depth and dimension to the dish alongside the creamy, nutty hummus.

Green Chilli Shrimp 4/5

One of Leila’s signatures, the Green Chilli Shrimp ($27), showcased beautifully grilled prawns coated in a herbaceous green tatbila sauce. The freshness of the herbs came through nicely, though a touch more citrus would have brightened the dish and added greater vibrancy.

Knafeh 2/5

For dessert, we had the classic Middle Eastern sweet Knafeh ($21). Ours was finished tableside with a pour of sugar syrup, which wasn’t necessary as it sweetened the ice cream as well. I had expected delicate floral notes of rose or orange blossom to perfume the dessert, but the flavours were rather muted. Although the fried kataifi encased a layer of cheese, the pastry seemed slightly overfried, resulting in a dessert that lacked the aromatic complexity and balance I had hoped for.

Leila offers an interesting interpretation of Middle Eastern and Balkan flavours in a contemporary gastrobar setting. With a little more refinement, the menu could better showcase the rich culinary traditions it draws inspiration from.

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.


Leila
12 Teck Lim Road
Singapore 088387
Tel: +65 8016 4117
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 6pm - till late
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight down New Bridge Road. Turn right onto Kreta Ayer Road. Walk down Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk down Keong Saik Road. Turn left onto Teck Lim Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Torikizoku @ Vivocity - Japan's #1 Yakitori Chian Opens Its Biggest-Ever Outlet in Singapore

Japan’s popular yakitori chain Torikizoku has officially made its Singapore debut at VivoCity, opening its largest outlet worldwide on 29 May 2026. Spanning an impressive 174 seats across both indoor and al fresco dining areas overlooking the promenade, the space is designed to deliver a lively yet relaxed izakaya experience.

Built on its philosophy of offering quality Japanese fare at accessible prices, Torikizoku keeps things refreshingly simple. All food and non-alcoholic beverages are priced at $3.90++, while kids’ meals and alcoholic drinks are priced at $9.90++. The menu features a mix of grilled skewers, comforting sides, and casual bites, making it an easy spot for gatherings with friends or family.

Chicken Nanban 3.8/5

Starting with the Chicken Nanban ($3.90++), this classic Japanese favourite of karaage paired with tartar sauce delivered a satisfying balance of textures. The chicken was crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy within. The creamy tartar sauce helped to cut through the richness, adding a tangy contrast that lifted the overall flavour profile.

Potato Salad 4/5

The Potato Salad ($3.90++) was a pleasant surprise. Creamy yet not overly heavy, it featured chunks of potato that added a more rustic texture. The addition of bonito flakes added a subtle umami note, elevating what would otherwise be a simple side dish.

Grilled Fluffy Grated Yam 3/5

One of the more unique items on the menu is the Grilled Fluffy Grated Yam ($3.90++). Light and airy with a soft, almost soufflé-like texture, it carried a delicate savoury flavour. While it is meant to complement the skewers as a comforting side, its texture and flavour profile may not appeal to everyone and can be an acquired taste.

Chicken Liver 3/5, Stuffed Bell Pepper Ponzi 3/5, Signature Kizokuyaki Thigh & Leek 3.5/5

Yakitori remains the highlight here, with each plate comprising two skewers priced at $3.90++. Among the selections, the Chicken Liver and Stuffed Bell Pepper with Ponzu were decent, though not particularly outstanding. The liver had a slightly grainy texture, while the stuffed pepper offered a refreshing tang from the ponzu but lacked a stronger flavour punch.

Chicken Liver 3/5, Stuffed Bell Pepper Ponzi 3/5, Signature Kizokuyaki Thigh & Leek 3.5/5

The standout was the Signature Kizokuyaki Thigh & Leek (Sauce), part of the brand’s signature jumbo skewer range. Glazed in Torikizoku’s iconic tare sauce — a recipe refined over more than 40 years — the chicken thigh was juicy and flavourful, with a good balance of sweetness and savouriness. The leek added a mild sweetness without overpowering the meat. Notably, the Kizokuyaki skewers are larger than typical yakitori skewers, making them feel more substantial and better value for money.

Wings 3.8/5

Moving on to the Wings ($3.90++), these were grilled with the bone in, which helped retain moisture and enhance flavour. The meat was tender and juicy, with a lightly crisp exterior. While slightly greasy, it delivered the kind of satisfying richness that makes grilled wings so enjoyable.

Chicken Kamameshi 3.5/5

For something more filling, the Chicken Kamameshi ($3.90++) is a comforting option. Served in a traditional pot and cooked fresh at the table, the dish combines rice, chicken, and vegetables into a hearty one-pot meal. The rice absorbs the flavours of the ingredients as it cooks, resulting in a fragrant and savoury dish. Do note that it requires about 30 minutes of cooking time, so it is best to order this early.

Overall, Torikizoku brings a casual and approachable izakaya concept to Singapore. While the food may not be the most refined or top-tier, the consistent pricing and generous portions make it incredibly accessible. At $3.90++ per dish, it offers a fuss-free dining option where you can sample a variety of items without worrying about the bill. In short, Torikizoku may not serve the best yakitori in town. Still, it delivers solid flavours, a lively atmosphere, and unbeatable value — making it a place you’ll return to for easy, wallet-friendly Japanese dining.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Torikizoku
Vivocity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#01-104, 105
Singapore 098585
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Kott-Don 360 @ Vivocity - Immersive Korean BBQ with Premium Hanwoo and 360-Hour Aged Meats

Kott-Don 360, the Korean BBQ specialist known for its premium wet-aged meats, has officially opened its second outlet at VivoCity on 15 June 2026. Building on the success of its Paya Lebar Quarter location, the new flagship raises the bar with a more immersive dining concept, anchored by a dramatic cave-inspired entrance that leads into a space adorned with traditional Hanok roof elements. The experience feels almost transportive, setting the tone for a meal that celebrates Korean craftsmanship, culture, and meticulous meat preparation.

Founded by the team behind Flower Pig 360, Kott-Don 360 continues its mission to elevate the Korean barbecue experience through expertly aged meats, attentive service, and a thoughtfully curated menu. The VivoCity outlet also introduces exclusive Hanwoo beef selections, making it a destination for those seeking a more refined Korean BBQ experience.

Hanwoo - Rib Finger, Ribeye

Hanwoo - Ribeye 4.2/5

Hanwoo - Rib Finger 4/5

We began with the Hanwoo Beef Set for sharing (from $268 Member Price), featuring prized cuts such as Rib Finger and Ribeye. The Hanwoo Rib Finger stands out for its robust, deeply meaty character. Cut from between the rib bones, it offers a more pronounced chew compared to more tender cuts, delivering a satisfying bite that beef lovers will appreciate. As it grills, the fat renders beautifully, creating a smoky, caramelised crust that amplifies its natural savouriness. Despite its structure, the meat remains juicy, striking a delicate balance between tenderness and resistance.

In contrast, the Hanwoo Ribeye leans towards indulgence. Richly marbled, it delivers a luxurious, buttery umami that coats the palate without feeling cloying. The texture is exceptionally tender, almost melting in the mouth with minimal effort. What impresses most is its clean finish. Despite the high fat content, it avoids the greasy aftertaste sometimes associated with heavily marbled beef, leaving behind a refined, lingering richness that keeps you reaching for more.

Duroc Black Pork - Pork Belly, Marinated Pork Neck and Jeju Black Pork - Pork Neck

Duroc Black Pork - Pork Belly 4.2/5

Duroc Black Pork - Marinated Pork Neck 3.8/5

The pork selections are equally compelling, showcasing different breeds and cuts. The Duroc Black Pork Belly ($29.90) is a highlight, widely regarded as the gold standard for pork due to its superior fat-to-meat ratio. Each slice grills up with crisp edges and a succulent interior, releasing a natural sweetness that is slightly nutty and far more pronounced than that of conventional pork. The marbling ensures the meat self-bastes as it cooks, resulting in a juicy, flavourful bite with a clean, non-gamey finish.

The Duroc Marinated Pork Neck ($33.90) offers a different but equally satisfying experience. The marinade enhances the pork’s inherent sweetness, caramelising over the grill to form a lightly charred, flavour-packed exterior. Unlike the belly, the neck cut provides a firmer, springy texture, delivering a hearty bite that feels substantial without being overly rich. It is well-balanced, making it easy to enjoy throughout the meal.

Jeju Black Pork - Pork Neck 4.5/5

Another standout is the Jeju Black Pork Neck ($33.90), often dubbed the “Wagyu of pork” in Korea. Raised in Jeju’s unique environment, the meat boasts a deeper, more concentrated flavour profile. The higher protein content gives it a pronounced meatiness, while the fat carries a clean, subtly sweet nuttiness. When grilled, the interplay of smoke and rendered fat creates an aromatic complexity that is both bold and refined, elevating it beyond typical pork offerings.

Kimchi Soup 4.2/5

Beyond the grill, the supporting dishes further round out the experience. The Black Pork Kimchi Soup ($18.90++) is a comforting staple, combining Duroc pork, kimchi, tofu, and spring onions in a hearty broth. The balance of spice, acidity, and richness makes it especially satisfying, and the refillable portions ensure it remains a warm, constant companion throughout the meal.

Cheese Steamed Egg 4.2/5

The Cheese Steamed Egg is soft and pillowy, almost cloud-like in texture. Topped with a layer of torched cheese, it gains added depth of flavour, with the creamy, slightly smoky notes of the cheese enhancing the delicate egg custard beneath.

Fish Cake Soup 4.2/5

A unique addition is the Kettle-Pot Fish Cake Soup (Non-Member: $55++; Member: $45++), served in a traditional kettle. Featuring imported Busan fish cake skewers in a broth brewed from radish, leek, and anchovy stock, it is both visually intriguing and deeply comforting. The kettle presentation allows diners to pour the soup themselves, adding an interactive touch to the dining experience.

Seafood Pancake 4/5

The Seafood Pancake (Non-Member: $32++; Member: $28++) impresses with its crisp exterior and well-balanced composition. It is not overly doughy, allowing the flavours of the seafood to shine through without being masked by excess batter. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by the natural sweetness of the seafood.

Kimchi Cold Noodle 4/5

For something lighter, the Cold Kimchi Noodle (Non-Member: $16.90++; Member: $14.90++) provides a refreshing contrast. The chilled fermented kimchi broth is tangy and invigorating, pairing well with the soft noodles, cucumber, seaweed, and boiled egg. It’s a welcoming, refreshing dish amid the richness of the grilled meats.

Beef Tartare Bibimbap 4.2/5

The Beef Tartare Bibimbap (Non-Member: $31++; Member: $26++) is another noteworthy dish. Featuring wagyu beef tartare, shredded egg, seaweed, and water spinach, it is brought together with a pasteurised egg yolk and ssamjang. The result is a rich, savoury bowl with layers of texture and flavour, in which the beef’s umami is complemented by the sauce’s nutty, slightly sweet notes.

To celebrate its opening, Kott-Don 360 is offering a limited-time promotion. Diners who sign up for a complimentary membership can enjoy a free 150g serving of pork belly with a minimum spend, limited to one redemption per bill while stocks last.

Kott-Don 360 at VivoCity is more than just another Korean BBQ spot. With its immersive setting, premium ingredients, and attention to detail, it delivers a dining experience that goes beyond the grill. Whether you are drawn by the exclusivity of Hanwoo beef or the depth of flavour in its carefully sourced pork, Kott-Don 360 at VivoCity is set to become a compelling destination for Korean barbecue enthusiasts.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kott-Don 360
VivoCity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#02-123/124
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 9003 9688
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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