Sing Hi Fry (辛海五炒) @ Hougang Ave 5 - Comforting Stir-Fried Classics Without Breaking the Bank

I made my way back to my childhood neighbourhood along Hougang Avenue 5 to revisit familiar surroundings and check out a wallet-friendly hawker stall, Sing Hi Fry (辛海五炒). Located inside Yen Fei Lai Eating House at Block 322, the stall serves up a range of stir-fried noodles and fried rice dishes, with prices starting from just $4. It’s a no-frills setup, but one that clearly resonates with residents in the area.

Fried Hokkien Prawn Noodle 4/5

I started with the Fried Hokkien Prawn Noodle ($5). The noodles were generously coated in a rich, prawn-based broth that carried a deep, natural sweetness, making each bite thoroughly satisfying. The balance of flavours was on point, with the stock soaking into the noodles for that signature comforting slurp. The homemade sambal deserves a special mention; it is spicy with a slight tang, cutting through the richness and lifting the entire dish.

Ipoh Fried Kway Teow 4/5

Next was the Ipoh Fried Kway Teow ($5). This rendition leans towards the savoury side, delivering a good hit of wok hei that adds a smoky depth to the dish. The kway teow was evenly fried, not overly oily, and had a well-rounded seasoning that kept you going from bite to bite. It may not be flashy, but it delivers exactly what you expect from a dependable plate of fried kway teow.

Oyster Omelette 3.8/5

The Oyster Omelette ($5) features crisp edges surrounding a soft, fluffy egg base. The oysters were plump and juicy, adding bursts of briny flavour throughout. This version skips the gooey, starchy texture that some may prefer, focusing instead on a crispier finish. While it’s not my personal preference, those who enjoy a firmer, more textured orh luak will appreciate this style.

XO Sauce Fried Rice with Fried Seabass 4/5

To complete the meal, I had the XO Sauce Fried Rice with Fried Seabass ($9). The fried rice was fragrant and well-executed, with distinct, fluffy grains of Japanese rice that provided a pleasant bite. The XO sauce added a subtle sweetness with a gentle spicy note, enhancing the overall flavour without being overwhelming. The crispy battered seabass on top remained moist inside, offering a nice contrast in texture. It’s a satisfying one-dish option that rounds off the meal nicely.

For a neighbourhood hawker stall, Sing Hi Fry delivers consistent and flavourful dishes at very reasonable prices. It’s straightforward cooking done right, proving that comforting local fare doesn’t need to come at a high cost.


Sing Hi Fry (辛海五炒)
Yen Fei Lai Eating House
Blk 322 Hougang Ave 5
Singapore 530322
Tel: +65 9373 7378
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Hougang (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 8pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Hougang MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Hougang Central Road. Turn left and walk down Hougang Central. Walk to the traffic junction between Hougang Central and Hougang Ave 5. Cross the road and walk down Hougang Ave 5. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Chef X @ Clark Quay Central - Welcomes Nonyanita, The Final Pop Up Residency Offering Modern Interpretation of Peranakan Cuisine

Nonyanita Cafe, the latest concept at Chef X, brings a refreshing take on Peranakan cuisine that feels both nostalgic and unexpectedly modern. Helmed by Chef Jean Tan, the menu reimagines heritage dishes in familiar cafe formats such as grain bowls, sandwiches, and soups, making traditional flavours more approachable for today's diners.

Most of the dishes leaned towards a lighter, more delicate flavour profile - very much reflective of Chef Jean's personal cooking style, where less salt allows the natural ingredients to shine.

Tempeh Fruits & Nuts Salad 4.8/5

We were recommended the Tempeh Fruits & Nuts Salad ($15), and I'll admit I was hesitant at first since I'm not usually a fan of tempeh, but this dish completely changed my mind. The combination of textures really stood out, especially with the juicy bursts of pomegranate and the crunch from the nuts. Everything comes together beautifully with the kecap manis dressing, which adds a gentle sweetness balanced with a slight tang. Surprisingly addictive, and this would make a hearty meal on its own.

Nonya Wings 3.8/5

The Nonya Wings ($5/2pcs, $12/6pcs) were made with fresh wings, which we appreciated. While the marinade was fragrant, we found the flavours a little on the lighter side for our palate. That said, it still makes for an easy, snackable side, especially if you prefer something less heavy.

Itek Sio Sandwich 3.5/5

This was our first time trying an Itek Sio Sandwich ($23), featuring Nonya braised duck. The duck is cooked down until tender and falls apart easily, with a pulled pork-like texture. However, the use of tamarind gives it a distinct tanginess that might be an acquired taste. It's an interesting take on a traditional dish, though the flavour profile may not appeal to everyone.

Papaya & Prawns Titek Soup 3.8/5

The Papaya & Prawns Titek Soup ($16, with rice) leans towards a lighter, more delicate profile, rather than the bold flavours you might expect. Chef Jean shared that she prefers not to rely heavily on salt, which explains the broth's clean taste. A nice touch was the tableside addition of fresh herbs, where we had basil added, along with a side of sambal for those who prefer a bit more punch. It's a comforting dish that feels very home-style.

Nonya Chicken Curry 3.8/5

You can't have Peranakan cuisine without a Nonya Chicken Curry ($15). This version is rich and lemak, but we found it slightly sweeter than what we personally prefer. Still, it's a solid rendition and likely to appeal to those who enjoy a more rounded, mellow curry.

Keluak Cookies 5/5

The desserts left a much stronger impression overall. The Keluak Cookies ($3/pc, $30/12pcs) were especially memorable; despite containing no chocolate, they have a surprisingly deep, cocoa-like flavour. They're less sweet, slightly crumbly, and feel like a "healthier" indulgence.

Sugee Cake 5/5

Another standout was the Sugee Cake ($6.30/pc, $98/whole). It has a light, crumbly texture rather than being dense and the toasted almond flakes add a lovely crunch and fragrance. Definitely one of a kind.

Pulut Hitam with Dried Logans 4/5

Lastly, the Pulut Hitam with Dried Longans ($8, +$4 for ice cream) is served warm and comforting. It's less sweet than usual, but the dried longans bring natural sweetness and added depth, giving it a fresh twist on a familiar dessert.

Nonyanita Cafe offers a thoughtful and modern interpretation of Peranakan cuisine, one that leans lighter in seasoning while staying rooted in tradition. While some dishes may feel more subtle than expected, the desserts and overall concept stand out for their uniqueness and creativity.

As the final residency at Chef X, it's definitely worth checking out if you're curious to experience Peranakan flavours presented in a different, more contemporary way!

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


Nonyanita Cafe @ Chef X
Clarke Quay Central
6 Eu Tong Sen Street
#03-103/104
Singapore 059817
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Clark Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clark Quay MRT Station. Take Exit E or F. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

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
Facebook
Instagram
Website
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]

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
Facebook
Instagram
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]

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
Facebook
Instagram
Website
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]

Neon Pigeon @ Carpenter Street - A Bold, After-Dark Izakaya Experience with Playful Cocktails & Modern Japanese Bites

Tucked within Singapore's vibrant dining scene, Neon Pigeon brings a spirited take on the modern Japanese izakaya, drawing inspiration from Tokyo's after-dark culture, where bold flavours, creative drinks, and lively conversations take centre stage. Recognised on the World's 50 Best Discovery list, the concept leans into a fusion of Japanese techniques with global influences, resulting in a menu designed for sharing, indulgence, and a touch of fun.

Ran-Ta-Ta Tan 4/5

The evening began on a high note with the Ran-Ta-Ta Tan ($26), a cocktail that makes quite the entrance, dramatically served in a lantern that releases a gentle smoky aroma upon arrival. The drink itself is a complex yet balanced blend of discarded grape skin vodka, TWG Sakura tea, passion fruit, and a hint of chartreuse yellow, finished with a cinnamon crack salt rim.

Pornstar Martiki 4/5

Equally memorable was the Pornstar Martiki ($27), a cheeky, playful cocktail that doesn't take itself too seriously, complete with a rather suggestive jelly garnish that adds a touch of humour to the experience. Made with Nikka Coffey grain whisky, Veritas rum, clarified passion fruit, Galliano vanilla, falernum, and topped with Bauget-Jouette Brut, the drink delivers a well-rounded balance of sweetness, tropical brightness, and gentle effervescence.

Spicy Tuna Roll 3.8/5

The Spicy Tuna Roll ($25 for 6pcs) is a familiar staple on the menu, and while it may not be the most groundbreaking dish of the night, it delivers reliably on flavour. The tuna is fresh and clean tasting, paired with a creamy, mildly spicy mayo that adds richness without overpowering the fish. It works well as an easy bite, especially when paired with cocktails.

A5 Wagyu Kushiyaki 5/5

A clear standout of the evening, the A5 Wagyu Kushiyaki ($24 for 2pcs) was nothing short of indulgent perfection. Using premium Miyazaki ribeye, the beef is expertly grilled to achieve a delicate char on the outside while remaining incredibly tender and buttery within.

Corn Kushiyaki 4/5

The Corn Kushiyaki ($12 for 2pcs) may seem understated, but it surprises with its depth of flavour. Grilled to bring out its natural sweetness, the corn is generously coated with miso butter and finished with a dusting of nori powder. The combination creates a savoury-sweet balance with a subtle umami punch.

Caramelised Brussels Sprouts 4.5/5

One of the more unexpectedly addictive dishes of the night, the Caramelised Brussels Sprouts ($15) delivers bold flavours with every bite. Lightly charred for a smoky edge, the sprouts develop a caramelised exterior that enhances their natural sweetness. While slightly on the saltier side, the intensity works in its favour.

Baked King Crab Leg 3.8/5

The Baked King Crab Leg ($50) arrives looking undeniably impressive, with its generous portion and creamy, spicy topping that adds a punch of flavour. The sauce carries a pleasant heat; however, the experience is slightly let down by the flesh sticking to the shell, making it less enjoyable to eat.

Carbonara Cup Noodle 3.8/5

A playful and creative take on a comfort classic, the Carbonara Cup Noodle ($18) is presented in a Neon Pigeon-branded cup, cheekily mimicking the familiar instant noodle format. The dish delivers on flavour, with a creamy, indulgent carbonara sauce coating thick udon noodles, but the udon's texture leans slightly too soft for our preference.

Chocolate Trifle 2/5

Unfortunately, the Chocolate Trifle ($14) did not quite meet expectations. While the combination of almond brittle and dulce de leche offers a promising flavour pairing, the overall dessert leans too sweet and slightly dry. The whipped cream feels a little heavy and cloying, which affects the dish's overall balance.

Neon Pigeon delivers a vibrant and engaging izakaya experience that leans heavily into creativity, both in its cocktails and its menu offerings. The highlights lie in its stronger executions, particularly the A5 Wagyu Kushiyaki and Caramelised Brussels Sprouts, alongside its visually striking and well-balanced cocktails.

While some dishes could benefit from refinement in texture and balance, the overall concept remains compelling, making it an ideal spot for a lively night out with friends.

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


Neon Pigeon
36 Carpenter Street
#01-01
Singapore 059915
Tel: +65 3129 7551
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 530pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Clark Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road using the overhead bridge. Turn left and walk down New Bridge Road. Turn left onto Hong Kong Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]