Tim Ho Wan @ Westgate - Celebrates Singapore’s Food Culture with Flavours of Singapore Dim Sum

This National Day, Tim Ho Wan pays tribute to Singapore’s rich and diverse food culture with its limited-time Flavours of Singapore menu, taking familiar local favourites and giving them an inventive Hong Kong dim sum twist.

Available from 21 July to 31 August 2026 at all Tim Ho Wan outlets islandwide, the menu features five creations inspired by flavours Singaporeans grew up with, from laksa and bak chor mee to orh nee and luncheon meat fried rice. While the combinations may sound unconventional at first, the menu is a playful meeting point between two beloved food cultures.

Laksa Seafood Dumplings 叻沙海鲜饺 4.2/5

The Laksa Seafood Dumplings 叻沙海鲜饺 ($7.90 for 3pcs) deliver an appetising spicy kick right from the start. Hand-wrapped with a striking butterfly pea-infused skin, the azure-hued dumplings are filled with succulent shrimp and sweet scallops. The dish stands out for the laksa broth that accompanies the dumplings. Rich and creamy with coconut milk and aromatic spices, the broth carries the distinctive fragrance of rempah with a gentle heat that lingers on the palate. The delicate seafood filling works nicely with the robust laksa base, creating a dish that feels both familiar and distinctly different from the usual dim sum offering.

‘Bak Chor’ Rice Rolls 肉脞皱皮肠粉 4.2/5

Of all the creations, the ‘Bak Chor’ Rice Rolls 肉脞皱皮肠粉 ($9.50) were perhaps the one I was most sceptical about initially. After all, combining silky Hong Kong-style cheong fun with the flavours of Singapore’s bak chor mee sounds like an unusual pairing. Yet, it surprisingly works. The smooth rice rolls are dressed with tangy black vinegar and homemade chilli sauce, then topped with savoury minced pork, braised mushrooms and, of course, crispy pork lard. The combination hits many of the familiar notes of a good bowl of bak chor mee — tangy, spicy, savoury and deeply umami. For me, the vinegar kick made the connection work. That sharp tang cuts through the richness of the minced pork and crispy lard, while the soft rice rolls provide a completely different texture from the usual noodles. It is an inventive take that retains the character of bak chor mee without simply recreating the dish.

‘Orh Nee’ Salted Egg Sesame Ball 芋泥金沙煎堆 4.2/5

Sesame balls are a staple at Hong Kong dim sum restaurants, and Tim Ho Wan gives this familiar favourite a local makeover with the ‘Orh Nee’ Salted Egg Sesame Ball 芋泥金沙煎堆 ($7.50 for 3pcs). The golden sesame-coated glutinous rice balls have a delightfully chewy exterior, giving way to a smooth and velvety taro paste inspired by the classic Teochew dessert. At the centre is a luscious, molten salted egg yolk filling, adding a rich savoury note against the yam’s natural sweetness. The combination is particularly enjoyable for those who like the sweet-savoury contrast of salted egg yolk. The fragrant sesame coating, chewy glutinous rice, creamy taro and molten salted egg come together in layers, making this a fitting end to the meal or a sweet bite to share.

XO Fried Rice with Bacon & Luncheon Meat 培根午餐肉XO炒饭 4.2/5

Even the humble fried rice gets a Singaporean spin with the XO Fried Rice with Bacon & Luncheon Meat 培根午餐肉XO炒饭 ($13.90). Fragrant rice is wok-fried with Tim Ho Wan’s house-concocted XO sauce, giving every grain a savoury depth and subtle spicy seafood umami. Generous pieces of bacon and luncheon meat add saltiness and a hearty bite, while the XO sauce ties it all together with complex seafood notes. It is familiar and comforting, but with a distinctly more robust profile. The luncheon meat and bacon also add a nostalgic touch, making this a rather homely fried rice that works well as a sharing dish alongside the dim sum.

Baked Black Pepper Roasted Duck Bun 酥皮焗黑椒烧鸭包 4/5

Tim Ho Wan’s renowned baked buns also get a limited-time makeover with the Baked Black Pepper Roasted Duck Bun 酥皮焗黑椒烧鸭包 ($9.50 for 3pcs). The signature golden, buttery pastry gives way to a savoury roasted duck filling generously coated in the chef’s black pepper sauce. The crisp, slightly sweet crust contrasts nicely with the tender duck inside, while the black pepper adds aromatic warmth that builds with every bite. Compared to the classic baked char siu bun, this version is more savoury and peppery, with the roasted duck giving the filling a deeper, meatier flavour. It is a satisfying variation that should appeal to fans of both Tim Ho Wan’s signature baked buns and Singapore’s love for bold, peppery flavours.

Tim Ho Wan’s Flavours of Singapore menu is an interesting exploration of how two food cultures can come together without losing their individual identities. Rather than simply adding local ingredients to existing dim sum, the menu draws inspiration from the flavours, textures and nostalgia associated with some of Singapore’s most recognisable dishes.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tim Ho Wan
Westgate
3 Gateway Drive
#01-13/14
Singapore 608532
Tel: +65 66862000
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 10am - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Jurong East MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Kai Duck @ Takashimaya - Celebrates SG61 With 50% Off Roasted Duck Cheong Fun & $18.80 Lunch Set

This August, Kai Duck at Takashimaya celebrates Singapore’s 61st birthday with a series of irresistible dining deals. From 50% off its viral Half Roasted Duck Cheong Fun to 61% off selected signature dishes and an affordable $18.80 lunch promotion, there are plenty of reasons to head down for a satisfying Cantonese feast this National Day month.

BBQ Pork with Homemade Sauce 4/5

Available daily with prior reservation, the Kai Duck Lunch Promotion offers diners a choice of four dishes from a selection of ten, making it a fuss-free option for a casual lunch with family or friends. The set also comes complete with steamed rice, dessert of the day and ice cream.

Among the dishes we tried was the BBQ Pork with Homemade Sauce. At first glance, the char siu appears rather fatty, but it surprisingly does not feel greasy. The meat has a pleasant tenderness, while the homemade sauce strikes a good balance with a savoury-sweet profile without becoming overly saccharine. The sauce works particularly well with the richness of the pork, cutting through the fattiness and keeping each bite moreish. It is the kind of dish that makes you go back for another piece without feeling too heavy.

Poached Chinese Spinach with Fish Beancurd served in Rice Broth 4/5

The Poached Chinese Spinach with Fish Beancurd served in Rice Broth was a comforting and clean-tasting dish that provided a nice contrast to the richer meats. The Chinese spinach retained a good crunch and freshness, while the delicate rice broth added a gentle savouriness without overpowering the vegetables. The fish beancurd brought a soft, bouncy texture to the dish, making it a hearty yet relatively light accompaniment to the meal.

Steamed Xiao Long Bao with Black Truffle Sauce 3.8/5

For something a little more indulgent, we had the Steamed Xiao Long Bao with Black Truffle Sauce. The dumplings arrive plump and generously filled, with juicy pork encased within the delicate skin. The black truffle sauce lends a distinct earthy aroma and richer finish to the dumpling. While the combination is enjoyable and certainly gives the classic xiao long bao a more luxurious touch, I personally prefer the natural porky flavours of the dumpling, where the savoury meat juices take centre stage.

Half Roasted Duck Cheong Fun 4.5/5

The viral Roasted Duck Cheong Fun from Guangzhou has been making waves for its indulgent combination of silky rice noodles and succulent roasted duck, and Kai Duck has brought its own rendition to Singapore. The roasted duck itself brings the essential richness to the dish, with tender meat and a fragrant roasted flavour that pairs beautifully with the smooth, delicate cheong fun. The contrast of textures makes this particularly enjoyable, with the silky rice noodles providing a soft base for the more substantial roasted duck.

For Singapore’s 61st birthday, Kai Duck is offering 50% off the Half Roasted Duck Cheong Fun at $18.80, U.P. $38, with a minimum spend of $88. It is also available as one of the selected dishes under the $18.80 Lunch Promotion, although diners will receive a smaller portion rather than the full half-duck serving.

Beyond the Half Roasted Duck Cheong Fun promotion, Kai Duck is also marking SG61 with 61% off selected signature dishes, including its Signature Peking Duck, giving diners even more reason to gather for a celebratory meal. With its mix of approachable lunch set and more indulgent signatures, Kai Duck’s SG61 promotions offer something for both casual weekday lunches and celebratory gatherings. The Half Roasted Duck Cheong Fun is the standout for us, especially at the promotional price, while the $18.80 lunch promotion makes it easy to sample several dishes without breaking the bank.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kai Duck
Takashimaya
391 Orchard Road
#05-10/11
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 62355419
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 545pm - 10pm
Fri: 1130am - 5pm, 545pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 5pm, 545pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight to Ngee Ann City. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Coffee Lounge @ Goodwood Park Hotel - ‘A Taste of Home’ Afternoon Tea with Singapore-Inspired Local Favourites

‘A Taste of Home’ Afternoon Tea Set 4/5

Goodwood Park Hotel is celebrating the month of August alongside Singapore’s 61st birthday with a series of dining experiences inspired by the flavours and familiar comforts that have shaped our local food culture.

Among the offerings is the refreshed ‘A Taste of Home’ Afternoon Tea Set at Coffee Lounge, which returns following its successful debut in 2024. The menu reimagines familiar Singaporean and Asian flavours into elegant bite-sized creations, served on a three-tiered stand.

Available daily from 1 August onwards, 2.30pm to 5pm, the afternoon tea is priced at $68++ for 2 persons.

The savoury selection features a fun assortment of familiar flavours, including Fish Curry Jala Roll, Otah Nasi Lemak with Crispy Rice, Lobster Kueh Pie Tee, Mini Kong Bak Bao and Butter Chicken Roti Prata.

The Fish Curry Jala Roll offered a playful take on the classic fish curry, while the Otah Nasi Lemak with Crispy Rice combined fragrant nasi lemak flavours with a spicy slice of otah sandwiched between the rice. We particularly enjoyed its bold spice and crunchy textures.

For desserts, it featured the Gulab Jamun Crème Brûlée, D24 Durian Pandan Coconut Roll and Honey Pineapple Crumble Tart.

The D24 Durian Pandan Coconut Roll combined the unmistakable aroma of durian with classic pandan and coconut. At the same time, the Gulab Jamun Crème Brûlée was an interesting marriage of Indian- and French-inspired flavours.

The Honey Pineapple Crumble Tart rounded things off with a fruity sweetness and buttery crumble.

Each set also includes a cup of coffee or TWG tea, making this a leisurely afternoon experience designed for sharing between two.

Beyond the afternoon tea, Goodwood Park Hotel’s National Day celebrations also include the seasonal The Singaporean Dessert Box, as well as the new ‘The Local Palate Afternoon Tea Buffet’ at L’Espresso. Reservations to the Coffee Lounge can be made by phone at 6730 1746 or online at goodwoodparkhotel.com/dining.

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


Coffee Lounge
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301746
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes.[Map]

Mosella @ Pan Pacific Orchard - From Tapas to Josper Grill: New À La Carte Menu Celebrates Communal Dining

Mosella at Pan Pacific Orchard refreshes its dining concept with a vibrant new à la carte menu, shifting away from structured multi-course formats to embrace the convivial spirit of Mediterranean communal dining. Designed for both casual lunches and lively evening gatherings, the menu offers a flexible mix of tapas, hearty mains, and grill-centric showstoppers, all thoughtfully portioned to suit different occasions. By day, diners can graze on lighter plates and carb-forward staples, while dinner spotlights the Josper grill — the heart of the open kitchen — where flame-kissed meats and seafood take centre stage.

Beetroot & Burrata 4/5

The Beetroot & Burrata ($12 Lunch/ $16 Dinner) is an elegant opener, pairing smoky, creamy burrata with earthy beetroot. Accents of pickled shallots, baby arugula, and candied walnuts lend both brightness and texture, while a drizzle of Pedro Ximenez sherry dressing ties everything together with a gentle sweetness.

Pan Con Tomate 4/5

Equally satisfying in its simplicity is the Pan Con Tomate ($8 Lunch/ $11 Dinner). Served on crisp, airy cristal bread, the grated datterini tomatoes are fresh and vibrant, lifted by good-quality extra virgin olive oil. It’s a classic done right — light, refreshing, and highly addictive.

Potatas Bravas 3.8/5

The Potatas Bravas ($9 Lunch/ $14 Dinner) offers a more inventive take, featuring golden cubes of potato millefeuille. Crisp on the outside and fluffy within, they are paired with smoky mojo picón, garlic aioli, and finished with cured egg yolk shavings for an umami-rich touch.

Mosella Caesar Salad 3.5/5

For something heartier, the Mosella Caesar Salad ($10 Lunch/ $$19 Dinner) brings together baby gem lettuce, aged Manchego, and savoury Iberico ham. The boquerones Caesar dressing adds a subtle briny depth, while almonds and croutons contribute crunch, making it both refreshing and satisfying.

Chargrilled Octopus 3.5/5

The Chargrilled Octopus ($19 Lunch/ $36 Dinner) impresses with its tender texture and smoky char. Served atop a rustic white bean and potato stew with chorizo, each bite is layered with richness, further enhanced by saffron aioli and delicate shavings of bluefin bottarga.

Gambas Al Ajillo 4/5

A perennial favourite, the Gambas Al Ajillo ($9 Lunch/ $14 Dinner) delivers bold, comforting flavours. Plump king prawns are sautéed in aromatic garlic and chilli oil, making it perfect for mopping up with bread.

Paella Chorizo 3.8/5

Paella Mariscos 4/5

The paellas here are hearty and well-executed. The Paella Chorizo ($29 Lunch/ $56 Dinner) leans on robust, meaty flavours, combining diced chorizo, grilled chicken breast, and piquillo peppers in a savoury chicken stock base. Meanwhile, the Paella Mariscos ($28 Lunch/ $52 Dinner) showcases the ocean’s bounty, with saffron-infused Bomba rice cooked in shellfish stock, studded with calamari and prawns, and finished with mussels and king prawns for a deeply satisfying seafood profile.

Half Spatchcock Chicken 4/5

From the Josper grill, the Half Spatchcock Chicken ($38) stands out for its juicy, tender meat and smoky aroma. Paired with romesco, black garlic, and a hint of piment d’Espelette, it’s a well-balanced dish with both depth and vibrancy.

Whole Branzino 4.2/5

The Whole Branzino ($62) is another highlight. This wild-caught European seabass arrives beautifully roasted, its skin crisp and lightly charred, while the flesh remains moist and flaky. Accompaniments of confit tomatoes, burnt citrus, and thyme enhance its natural sweetness.

Galician Bone-in Striploin 4.2/5

For meat lovers, the Galician Bone-In Striploin ($158) is a true showstopper. This 700g Rubia Gallega cut boasts a deep, beefy flavour and satisfying chew, cooked to a perfect medium-rare and complemented by a rich porcini and beef glace.

Cochinillo Asado 4.2/5

A must-try for sharing is the Cochinillo Asado ($78). This 1.2kg quarter suckling pig undergoes an intensive preparation process before being roasted to achieve its signature crackling skin. Beneath the crisp exterior lies tender, flavourful meat, paired with apple and Calvados purée and anise pork jus for a well-rounded finish.

Cacao 4.2/5

Ending on a sweet note, the Cacao ($18) is indulgence at its finest, featuring a luscious 68% Nyangbo chocolate crèmeux paired with burnt milk gelato for a balance of richness and depth.

Strawberry & Sherry 4.2/5

The Strawberry & Sherry ($12 Lunch/ $18 Dinner) offers a lighter contrast, with a soft Basque butter cake topped with strawberry gelée and finished tableside with warm sherry cream.

Churro Rosette 4.2/5

For something playful, the Churro Rosette ($11 Lunch/ $16 Dinner) delights with its spiral form — crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and best enjoyed dipped in smoked vanilla dulce sauce.

Leche Frita 4.2/5

Oliva 3.8/5

Spanish Rice Pudding 4/5

Other noteworthy options include the nostalgic Leche Frita ($9), the citrusy Oliva ($9 Lunch/ $16 Dinner) olive oil cake, and the comforting Spanish Rice Pudding ($8) with brown butter gelato and puffed rice crunch.

With its refreshed à la carte concept, Mosella successfully captures the essence of Mediterranean dining — relaxed, generous, and centred around sharing. Whether you’re dropping by for a light lunch or gathering friends for a hearty grilled feast, the versatile menu offers something for every occasion. Combined with the theatre of the Josper grill and thoughtfully crafted dishes, Mosella makes a compelling destination for both casual meet-ups and celebratory meals.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mosella
Pan Pacific Orchard
Level 2, Forest Terrace
10 Claymore Road
Singapore 229540
Tel: +65 6991 6875
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Buffet Breakfast
A La Carte Lunch
Sun-Fri: 12pm - 2:30pm
A La Carte Dinner
Sun-Thu: 6pm - 10pm
Fri, Sat & Eve of PH: 6pm - 10:30pm
Saturday Brunch
Sat: 12:30pm - 3pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk to Palais Renaissance, which is right after the Royal Thai Embassy. Cut through Palais Renaissance to the other side of the building. Pan Pacific Orchard is opposite the building. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]