Song Gye Ok @ The Centrepoint - Hearty Samgyetang and Kalguksu for Lunch

Song Gye Ok has expanded its presence in Singapore with a new outlet at The Centrepoint. Better known for its bustling dinner crowd and focus on BBQ and yakitori, it offers a more laid-back lunchtime experience in the afternoon. Designed with the working crowd in mind, the menu leans towards hearty yet comforting dishes that are satisfying without being overly heavy — ideal for executives seeking a quick but fulfilling midday meal.

Truffle Samgyetang 4.2/5

One highlight that may come as a surprise is the availability of Samgyetang from MODU. Here, the selection is streamlined into four distinct flavours — Collagen Herbal, Hangover, Perilla Seed, and Truffle — each catering to different preferences. We tried the Truffle Samgyetang ($46), an exclusive flavour at Song Gye Ok. The chicken was fork-tender, effortlessly falling off the bone, and soaked in a creamy, collagen-rich broth. Subtle ginseng notes provided a familiar herbal depth, while the addition of truffle lent an earthy aroma that elevated the dish into something more indulgent yet still comforting.

Assorted Mushroom Fries 4/5

For something lighter, the Assorted Mushroom Fries ($14) made for a delightful side. An assortment of mushrooms was coated in a delicate tempura batter and fried to a crisp golden brown. Each bite offered a satisfying crunch, giving way to juicy interiors that retained the mushrooms’ natural flavours and texture.

Dakgomtang 3.5/5

The Dakgomtang ($28) presented as a complete set with kimchi and salad. The soup, simmered for 12 hours using a whole spring chicken, is the true star. Clean yet deeply flavourful, the broth carries a natural richness from its collagen content, resulting in a comforting bowl that feels both nourishing and satisfying. Accompanying the soup is a plate of rice topped with charcoal-grilled half-roasted chicken, adding a smoky dimension that complements the broth’s lightness.

Perilla & Ongshimi Kalguksu 4/5

Rounding out the menu is the Signature Kalguksu Korean Hand-cut Noodles, a staple for those seeking something warm and soothing. The noodles are served in a carefully prepared broth made with fresh ingredients and house-made stock, delivering a clean, balanced flavour profile. Diners can choose from four variations — Truffle Kalguksu, Perilla & Ongshimi Kalguksu, Collagen Kalguksu, and Hangover Kalguksu — each offering a slightly different depth and character.

We opted for the Perilla & Ongshimi Kalguksu ($24), which stood out for its rich and comforting profile. The hand-cut noodles had a delightful bite, with a slight chew that made each mouthful satisfying. The broth, thickened with perilla seeds, was nutty and creamy, coating each strand of noodle beautifully for slurp-worthy goodness. It is a deeply comforting bowl that leans towards a more robust, hearty flavour than the other variations.

Earl Grey Highball and Ginseng Highball 3/5

To complement the meal, the Earl Grey Highball ($16) and Ginseng Highball ($16) make a light, refreshing pairing. Each is crafted using whisky infused with its respective ingredient, topped with sparkling water and a twist of lemon. The result is a clean, aromatic drink that is easy to sip, making it a suitable choice even for a casual lunch setting.

Overall, lunch at Song Gye Ok presents a refreshing alternative to its dining experience. With its focus on nourishing soups, hearty mains, and approachable flavours, it caters well to the lunch crowd looking for something both convenient and comforting. Whether it’s a quick solo meal or a casual lunch gathering, the menu strikes a thoughtful balance between indulgence and simplicity.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Song Gye Ok
The Centrepoint
176 Orchard Road
#02-53/54
Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 8088 3850
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11:30am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT Station. Take Exit C. Walk to Orchard Road. Cross the road. Turn right onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Milli Sky Dining & Bar @ National Gallery - Unveils Tingkat Afternoon Tea and National Day Specials

Perched high above the city, Milli Sky Dining & Bar will be launching an Afternoon Tea experience from 10 August 2026, alongside a pair of National Day specials that weave in familiar local flavours. Staying true to its sky-high setting, the new Tingkat Teatime takes on a nostalgic yet elevated approach, presenting a four-tier selection inspired by Singapore’s culinary heritage.

Tingkat Teatime 4/5

Served in a traditional four-tier tingkat carrier, the Teatime Set ($68 per pax) offers a thoughtful progression of savoury and sweet bites. The first tier sets the tone with a duo of Popiah Tartlet and Otak Toast. The popiah tartlet cleverly reimagines the classic fresh spring roll into a crisp, bite-sized shell filled with familiar flavours. At the same time, the otak toast delivers a punch of spice and aromatics atop a crisp base, making it a comforting yet playful start.

Moving on to the second tier, the White Pepper Crab Spring Roll stands out with its light, crispy exterior encasing a filling that carries the signature warmth of white pepper. The seasoning is well-balanced, allowing the crab’s natural sweetness to shine while adding just enough heat to keep things interesting.

The third tier features a local staple — Chicken Rice with Roasted Chicken. During our visit, it was served as a chicken rice ball, offering a compact and convenient take on the beloved dish. The rice was fragrant and well-seasoned, while the roasted chicken retained a tender bite with a lightly crisped skin. While the presentation may vary, the essence of the dish remains rooted in its comforting familiarity.

Rounding off the experience is the fourth tier, an Assortment of Traditional Kuehs. Expect a medley of textures and flavours, from soft and chewy to lightly sweet, providing a nostalgic finish that ties back to Singapore’s rich heritage of local desserts.

Ayam Penyet Buah Keluak

In celebration of National Day, Milli presents the Ayam Penyet Buah Keluak ($22), a hearty dish that brings together Malay and Peranakan influences. The whole fried chicken leg is crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy within. What elevates the dish is the buah keluak element, lending a deep, earthy richness that complements the aromatic spices. Served with fragrant steamed white rice, achar, and sambal, it is a well-rounded plate that satisfies both in flavour and portion size. The sambal adds a spicy kick, while the achar provides a refreshing contrast, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Completing the National Day offerings is the Red and White Milli ($26), a visually striking cocktail inspired by the colours of the Singapore flag. Built on a Gin & Tonic base, it incorporates local flavours through a pandan-coconut foam, adding a fragrant and slightly creamy dimension to the drink. Finished with an orchid garnish, the cocktail is light, refreshing, and fittingly celebratory.

Milli Sky Dining & Bar’s new offerings blend nostalgia and creativity, presenting familiar local flavours in a refreshed format. The Tingkat Teatime is particularly appealing to those seeking a unique afternoon experience with a local twist, while the National Day specials add a timely, festive touch. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a leisurely teatime above the city or celebrate Singapore’s culinary heritage with a modern spin, Milli offers a compelling reason to visit this August.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Milli Sky Dining & Bar
National Gallery Singapore
1 St Andrew’s Road
#05-02
Singapore 178957
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Tue: 11am - 1am
Wed-Fri: 11am - 3am
Sat: 11am - 4am

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk down North Bridge Road. Walk to Coleman Street. Turn left onto Coleman Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Mui Kee @ Raffles City - Opens Second Outlet with New Dishes and Nostalgic Hong Kong Vibes

Famed for its comforting bowls of silky congee, Mui Kee has opened its second outlet at Raffles City Shopping Centre, bringing with it more than 20 new and exclusive dishes alongside its well-loved signatures. Stepping into the space feels like a quick trip back in time — the relaxed, open-concept dining room is decked out with cosy booth seating, maroon subway tiles, retro lightboxes, and the brand’s signature mahjong tile feature wall. The ambience channels the bustling charm of mid-century Hong Kong, but in a modern, fuss-free setting that invites diners to linger.

Preserved Bitter Gourd 4/5

We began our meal with the Preserved Bitter Gourd ($9.80), a dish that pleasantly surprised. For those who typically shy away from bitter gourd, this rendition is a revelation. The preservation process significantly mellows the inherent bitterness, leaving a gentle, almost tangy profile. What stood out most was its crunch — each bite delivered a refreshing, crisp texture that made it unexpectedly addictive.

Handcrafted Wantons in Fragrant Chilli Oil, Garlic & Vinegar 3.8/5

Next came the Handcrafted Wantons in Fragrant Chilli Oil, Garlic & Vinegar ($11.80). At first glance, the dish appeared deceptively mild, lacking the fiery red hue one might expect. However, it quickly proved otherwise. The chilli oil carried a fragrant heat that built gradually, complemented by the sharpness of vinegar and the savoury depth of garlic. The wantons themselves were well-executed — thin-skinned, delicately wrapped, and filled with a juicy prawn and pork mixture that burst with flavour.

Signature Braised Beef Brisket & Tendons with White Radish 3.8/5

The Signature Braised Beef Brisket & Tendons with White Radish ($31.80) showcased hearty, comforting flavours. The brisket and tendons were braised until tender, absorbing the rich, savoury sauce beautifully. The white radish, soft and porous, acted like a sponge, soaking up the robust braising liquid. While the dish delivered on flavour and texture, the portion size felt slightly modest for its price point.

Shredded Duck & Preserved Vegetables Cheong Fun 4.2/5

A highlight from the new offerings was the Shredded Duck & Preserved Vegetables Cheong Fun ($9.20). This inventive combination brought together roasted shredded duck and preserved vegetables wrapped in silky cheong fun sheets, finished with a drizzle of savoury sauce. Initially an unconventional pairing, it turned out to be a harmonious one — the richness of the duck balanced by the slight tang and crunch of the preserved vegetables, all encased in soft, smooth rice rolls.

Housemade Pork Meatballs Congee 4.2/5

Of course, no visit to Mui Kee is complete without its signature congee. The Housemade Pork Meatballs Congee ($12.90) delivered exactly what the brand is known for — a bowl of velvety, smooth rice porridge with a consistency that borders on creamy. The pork meatballs were tender and well-seasoned, making this a comforting, hearty dish that warms both the stomach and soul.

Shrimp Roe with Mushroom Noodles 3/5

The Shrimp Roe with Mushroom Noodles ($13.80) highlighted the hallmark springy texture of Hong Kong-style noodles, cooked to that signature QQ bite. While the noodles themselves were commendable, the shrimp roe flavour leaned on the subtler side and didn’t quite leave a strong impression. That said, the mushrooms added a juicy, umami richness that helped lift the overall dish.

Grass Jelly with Longan 4/5

Ending on a sweet note, the desserts proved to be more than just an afterthought. The Grass Jelly with Longan ($5.50) was light, cooling, and refreshing — perfect after a hearty meal. Even more impressive was the Tau Suan ($5.50), a traditional mung bean dessert elevated by fragrant tangerine peel. It struck a comforting balance of sweetness and depth, making it a standout and a must-order.

Tau Suan 4.5/5

Mui Kee’s newest outlet successfully blends nostalgia with innovation, offering its classic favourites alongside an expanded menu featuring fresh interpretations of Hong Kong comfort food. Whether you’re here for a hearty bowl of congee or to explore its new dishes, it’s a spot that delivers warmth, flavour, and a touch of old-school charm.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mui Kee
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#B1-46
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 9819 3211
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 9:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Linkus (临家) @ Takashimaya - Where Minnan Heritage Meets Modern Elegance

After drawing long queues at its debut Singapore outlet, LINKUS (临家) enters its next chapter with a new and more refined concept at Takashimaya Shopping Centre. Helmed by Executive Head Chef Lin Qiuyong, who brings over two decades of experience in Minnan cuisine, the restaurant offers an elegant showcase of Southern Fujian’s rich culinary heritage. The menu reflects a thoughtful balance between tradition and modernity, spotlighting premium seafood, time-honoured techniques and a deep respect for natural flavours.

The name “Linjia” (临家), meaning “a neighbour’s house”, encapsulates the brand’s philosophy of warm, heartfelt hospitality. Despite its elevated setting, the dining experience remains grounded in comfort and generosity, where guests are welcomed as family and treated to dishes that celebrate both craftsmanship and cultural roots.

Passion Fruit Juice Marinated Fruit Pulp 3/5

We began the meal with the Passion Fruit Juice Marinated Fruit Pulp ($9.90). Served chilled, the appetiser offered a refreshing burst of tropical sweetness, with the house-made passion fruit dressing lending a bright, tangy lift. While the flavours were vibrant, the texture of the passion fruit pulp may not appeal to everyone.

Fujian Rice Wine Marinated Mantis Prawn 4.2/5

A standout starter was the Fujian Rice Wine Marinated Mantis Prawn ($75 per piece). The premium mantis prawn was delicately infused with aged Fujian rice wine, enhancing its natural sweetness with a mellow, aromatic depth. Paired with a luscious runny yolk, the dish impressed with its precise cooking — the roe gently set on the outside while remaining silky and molten within. A luxurious and well-executed creation.

Flying Fish Roe Tossed with First Harvest Laver 4.5/5

Equally memorable was the Flying Fish Roe Tossed with First Harvest Laver ($16.90). This refreshing cold dish highlights prized first-harvest laver, known for its tender texture and deep oceanic umami. The addition of briny flying fish roe provided delightful bursts of flavour, complementing the laver’s subtle sweetness and clean finish.

Hand-Hooked Squid Tubes in Chilli Oil 4.2/5

Seafood continues to shine in the Hand-Hooked Squid Tubes in Chilli Oil ($49.90). Using hand-line-caught Dongshan squid, the dish showcases a beautifully crisp and springy texture, achieved through gentle poaching and chilling. The house-made chilli oil adds a fragrant, mildly numbing spice that enhances rather than overwhelms the squid’s natural sweetness.

Puff Pastry Curry Marbled Beef Steak 4.2/5

Moving on to heartier offerings, the Puff Pastry Curry Marbled Beef Steak ($42.90) draws inspiration from Quanzhou’s Maritime Silk Road heritage. Encased in a crisp, buttery puff pastry, the tender, marbled beef is paired with an aromatic, gently spiced, deeply comforting curry. The pastry shatters delicately with each bite, revealing succulent meat within — a harmonious blend of richness and warmth without being cloying.

Quanzhou Ginger Duck with Abalone 4.5/5

A dish steeped in history, the Quanzhou Ginger Duck with Abalone ($42.90/$79.90) traces its roots back to imperial cuisine. Slow-braised with generous amounts of old ginger and black sesame oil, the duck is deeply infused with warming aromatics. The addition of premium abalone lends a refined briny sweetness, elevating the dish into something both nourishing and indulgent — a true reflection of Minnan culinary wisdom.

Marble Goby with Green Sichuan Peppercorns 4.2/5

For seafood lovers, the Marble Goby with Green Sichuan Peppercorns ($109) is a must-order. The fish is gently cooked to preserve its delicate, naturally sweet flesh, while the green Sichuan peppercorns lend a light, citrusy fragrance and a subtle, numbing spice. The balance is precise, allowing the fish's quality to take centre stage.

Stewed Local Chicken Soup with Ficus Hirta and Poria Cocos 4.5/5

Comfort arrives in the form of the Stewed Local Chicken Soup with Ficus Hirta and Poria Cocos ($79). Double-boiled to achieve clarity and depth, the soup is soothing yet full-bodied, with the herbal notes of five-finger fig harmonising beautifully with the chicken's natural sweetness. It is a nourishing, understated highlight that reflects the essence of Fujian home cooking.

Baked Crab with DaHongPao Sichuan Peppercorn 4.5/5

Another highlight that underscores the kitchen’s finesse with seafood is the Baked Crab with DaHongPao Sichuan Peppercorn (market price). Staying true to Minnan cooking philosophy, the dish allows the crab's natural sweetness to shine, enhanced by the aromatic complexity of DaHongPao Sichuan peppercorns. The peppercorns lend a floral fragrance and a gentle tingling heat that lifts the sweetness of the crab without overpowering it. Each bite is a delicate balance of briny richness and spice, showcasing a restrained yet confident approach to seasoning that lets the quality of the ingredient take centre stage.

Red Mushroom & Crab Stir-Fried Hutou Rice Noodle 4/5

Another standout is the Red Mushroom & Crab Stir-Fried Hutou Rice Noodle ($99). Once presented as a tribute to the Qing imperial court, these noodles carry a rich historical legacy. Wok-fried with sweet crab and prized Sanming red mushrooms, the dish is imbued with a deep, seafood-forward umami, complemented by the mushrooms' earthy fragrance.

Signature Xiamen Abalone Taro Bun 4/5

The Signature Xiamen Abalone Taro Bun ($12.90) offers a refined take on a beloved classic. The creamy taro exterior, with its gentle sweetness, pairs beautifully with the savoury abalone filling, resulting in a comforting yet elevated bite that showcases the finesse of Minnan cuisine.

Dogfish Simmered in Soy Sauce with Shark Liver 4.2/5

A more robust dish, the Dogfish Simmered in Soy Sauce with Shark Liver ($99), highlights traditional coastal flavours. Braised in aged Minnan soy sauce — often referred to as the “black gold of Xiamen” — the dish delivers deep umami richness, with the silky shark liver adding a luxurious texture.

Pan-Fried Oyster & Seaweed Pancake 4.5/5

For something closer to street fare, the Pan-Fried Oyster & Seaweed Pancake ($35.90) reimagines a Fujian snack with plump oysters and fragrant laver. Crisp at the edges and tender within, it celebrates the natural sweetness of coastal ingredients in a familiar yet elevated format.

Yuba Simmered with Spinach 4/5

Balancing the meal is the Yuba Simmered with Spinach ($17.90), a simple yet comforting dish where silky yuba and fresh spinach are gently cooked in a clear broth. The clean flavours offer a welcome respite amidst the richer dishes.

Xiamen Classic Satay Hot Pot 4.2/5

The Xiamen Classic Satay Hot Pot ($39.90), recognised as one of Xiamen’s top signature dishes, delivers a deeply flavourful shacha broth infused with dried seafood, peanuts and spices. Nutty, savoury and intensely aromatic, it is best enjoyed with crispy youtiao for dipping, soaking up the rich broth.

Quanzhou Wrapped Pork & Radish Rice 4/5

Staple comfort comes in the Quanzhou Wrapped Pork & Radish Rice ($22.90/$28.90). Rooted in humble origins, the dish reflects the ingenuity of Minnan cuisine, with radish adding both sweetness and symbolic meaning of good fortune. It is simple, hearty and deeply nostalgic.

Taro Paste with Bird’s Nest in Coconut Cup 4.5/5

To end on a sweet note, the Taro Paste with Bird’s Nest in Coconut Cup offers a refined dessert experience. The silky taro paste, paired with premium bird’s nest and served within a fresh coconut, delivers delicate sweetness and a soothing finish.

Sesame Ball stuffed with Seaweed 4.2/5

A unique surprise comes in the Sesame Ball stuffed with Seaweed, a creative twist on the traditional snack. Swapping the usual sweet fillings for a savoury seaweed centre works remarkably well, with the nutty sesame aroma complementing the chewy texture.

Overall, LINKUS (临家) at Takashimaya successfully elevates Minnan cuisine into a refined dining experience without losing its soul. Through meticulous technique, premium ingredients and a deep respect for tradition, the restaurant presents a compelling journey through Southern Fujian’s culinary heritage. Whether you are new to Minnan cuisine or familiar with its comforting flavours, LINKUS offers both discovery and nostalgia on a single table.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Linkus (临家)
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
391 Orchard Road
#04-22
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 8972 7999
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm

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

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Bibim Deli @ JEM - DIY Bibimbap Gets an Upgrade at Bibim Deli JEM with Celebrity Chef Collaborations

Following the success of its debut at Suntec City, Bibim Deli expands west with its second outlet at JEM, bringing along an exciting collaboration with chefs from Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars. Helmed by Season 1’s Chef Min Yohan, the concept now welcomes Season 2’s Chef Woo Jung-wook — affectionately known as “Seoul Mum” — to introduce a lineup of exclusive dishes alongside a brand-new Tteokbokki station available only at this Jurong East outlet.

Staying true to its roots, Bibim Deli continues to champion its self-DIY bibimbap experience, set within a clean, minimalist space inspired by traditional hanok aesthetics. The concept is straightforward yet engaging. Diners begin by selecting a bowl and portioning their desired amount of rice before moving along a vibrant spread of banchan, proteins, and vegetables. With over 1,000 rotational recipes curated by Chef Min Yohan, the variety is both impressive and ever-evolving, ensuring that no two visits are quite the same. Prices start from an accessible $3.88 per 100g, making it easy to customise a bowl to your appetite — though restraint is key, as the final bill can quickly climb depending on your selections.

One of the main highlights at JEM is the outlet-exclusive Tteokbokki station. Here, diners can enjoy chewy rice cakes bathed in a rich, deeply flavoured sauce that strikes a comforting balance between sweet and spicy. The sauce clings beautifully to each piece, delivering a satisfying, hearty bite that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. It’s a thoughtful addition that elevates the overall spread, offering a warm, cooked option among the cold banchan.

Complementing this are the limited-time dishes by Chef Woo Jung-wook, whose cooking leans into soulful, home-style Korean flavours. Her creations embody the kind of comforting dishes one might expect from a Korean home kitchen — hearty, well-seasoned, and deeply satisfying. Meanwhile, Chef Min Yohan’s new additions continue to showcase his flair for variety and balance, introducing more contemporary touches to the traditional spread.

The experience is rounded off with a complimentary bowl of miso soup, adding a light, savoury element to complete the meal. For those who prefer to dine at home, the takeaway option lets you pack your customised selection with ease, bringing a taste of Korean comfort to your table.

To celebrate the opening, Bibim Deli also brings back its popular “Guess the Right Weight” challenge at JEM. Diners who can accurately guess the weight of their bowl stand a chance to enjoy their meal for free — a fun, interactive touch that enhances the overall experience.

Overall, Bibim Deli at JEM delivers on both variety and flavour, offering a highly customisable dining experience that caters to different preferences and appetites. The collaboration with Culinary Class Wars chefs adds an extra layer of excitement, while the new Tteokbokki station provides a satisfying highlight. While the pay-by-weight concept offers flexibility, it also requires a mindful approach, as an indulgent bowl can easily exceed $20. Nonetheless, for those seeking a fuss-free yet flavourful Korean meal with plenty of choice, Bibim Deli remains a compelling option.

Note: This is an invited tasting.



Bibim Deli
JEM
50 Jurong Gateway Road
#03-05/06
Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 8321 1169
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11:30am - 9pm

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