KIAP KIAP Chicken Club & Bar @ Liang Seah Street - A Playful Take on Fried Chicken and Comfort Food

KIAP KIAP Chicken Club & Bar is a hidden find tucked among the slew of Chinese eateries lining busy Liang Seah Street. The convivial chicken-focused spot is co-founded by three Singaporeans — seasoned F&B professional Lucas Chua, his wife Aderline Che, a former streamer with a knack for building communities, and veteran F&B owner James Wang.

The concept brings together nostalgic childhood favourites, playful takes on familiar comfort food, and of course, their signature secret-recipe fried chicken. The menu is casual and fun, with plenty of options designed for sharing over drinks and a good time.

Fried Chicken with Aji Verde Sauce 4.5/5

The signature fried chicken is definitely one of KIAP KIAP's highlights. We had the Fried Chicken with Aji Verde Sauce ($16), featuring sizeable pieces of deep-fried chicken that are noticeably bigger than what you typically get at fast-food chains. The chicken is fried until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside. What makes this version particularly enjoyable is the vibrant Aji Verde Sauce, a creamy Peruvian green sauce with a refreshing, herbaceous character that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken. The combination works surprisingly well, giving the crispy chicken a tangy, creamy and slightly punchy lift.

For those who prefer something more straightforward, the Kiap Kiap Original Fried Chicken ($12) is also available, while the Mentaiko Fried Chicken with Ikura ($18) offers a richer, Japanese-inspired option.

Duck Fat Mala Fried Chicken 3.5/5

Inspired by the many Chinese eateries around Liang Seah Street, KIAP KIAP gives fried chicken a local twist with its Duck Fat Mala Fried Chicken ($14). The chicken is tender and juicy, tossed generously in aromatic mala spice and rich duck fat. It's fragrant and savoury, but the heat is no joke. Even as someone who generally handles spicy food quite well, I found the mala considerably too fiery. The spice intensity made it difficult for me to fully appreciate the juicy fried chicken underneath. I would have preferred a bit more balance, letting the flavour of the chicken and duck fat come through.

King's Truffle Poutine 4.2/5

One side you shouldn't skip is the King’s Truffle Poutine ($20). This playful take on the Canadian comfort food combines crispy French fries and cheese curds with hot brown gravy, but KIAP KIAP takes it several steps further with shaved truffle, beef gravy, Parmesan and a runny egg. The result is rich, indulgent and seriously addictive. The combination of salty fries, creamy cheese, savoury beef gravy and earthy truffle makes this a particularly satisfying sharing dish. Once you break the egg and mix it through, everything comes together into a luscious, messy plate of comfort food. Definitely one to order for the table.

Hot Mozzarella 4/5

The Hot Mozzarella ($12) is another delightful bite. The mozzarella is coated and fried until golden on the outside, giving way to a warm, stretchy and gooey centre when pulled apart. Served with raspberry sauce on the side, the sweet-tart fruitiness contrasts nicely with the rich, savoury fried cheese. It is a simple combination, but the sweet-and-savoury pairing works nicely.

Jenny's Udon 3.8/5

Beyond fried chicken, the menu also reflects the owners’ personal memories and nostalgic favourites. Jenny’s Udon ($12 for chicken, $16 for seafood) is named after James’ mother and is based on a comforting udon dish she used to cook for him. The homestyle stir-fried udon is reminiscent of a hearty plate of Hokkien Mee, with thick and chewy Japanese wheat noodles tossed with the accompanying ingredients. It is comforting and easy to eat, with a familiar quality that makes it feel like a simple home-cooked meal.

However, do not expect a robustly flavoured udon cooked in a rich, prawny stock. This is more like a good plate of stir-fried noodles — straightforward, comforting, and satisfying without being particularly complex.

Signature Milkshake Olive Oil & Sea Salt 4.8/5

One of my favourites from the visit was the Signature Milkshake Olive Oil & Sea Salt ($8). This is a thick and creamy milkshake with a rather unexpected finishing touch — a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. The olive oil adds a subtle fruity richness, while the sea salt balances the sweetness, creating a surprisingly sophisticated take on the classic milkshake. It is rich without being overly sweet, creamy without feeling too heavy, and just plain delicious. I have not had a really good milkshake in a long while, and this was a pleasant surprise.

Banana Pudding 3.8/5

Dessert comes in the form of a caramelised Banana Pudding ($6), which is served tableside. It has an almost Italian-restaurant-style presentation, reminiscent of a tray of tiramisu brought to the table, except here, it is banana pudding. The pudding itself is smooth and velvety, with caramelised banana adding a deeper sweetness and warmth. It is generously finished with crunchy cookie crumble, specifically crushed Biscoff biscuits, which provide a welcome contrast to the soft pudding. It is a comforting and indulgent way to round off the meal.

KIAP KIAP Chicken Club & Bar is an interesting addition to Liang Seah Street, offering something a little different from the cluster of Chinese restaurants that dominate the area. The menu is built around the owners’ personal favourites and childhood memories, with fried chicken as the central focus.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kiap Kiap Chicken Club & Bar
1 Liang Seah Street
#02-15
Singapore 189022
Tel: +65 9751 2319
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 530pm - 1am
Fri-Sat: 530pm - 2am

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT Station. Take Exit D. Walk to Tan Quee Lan Street. Take the side lane and walk to the back of Tan Quee Lan Street to Liang Seah Street. At Liang Seah Street, walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bugis MRT Station. Take Exit C. Walk to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to Liang Seah Street. Walk down Liang Seah Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ Frasers House - Threads of Fire & Spice: A Four-Hands Cantonese-Thai Collaboration

Man Fu Yuan (满福苑) at Frasers House, Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore presents Threads of Fire & Spice, a limited-time four-hands collaboration with Lily’s from The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, available exclusively from 17 to 18 July 2026. Bringing together the refined precision of Cantonese cuisine and the bold, aromatic vibrancy of Thai flavours, the experience unfolds through a thoughtfully curated menu that layers fire, spice, fragrance, and depth across each course. This spectacular 12-course dinner is priced at $208++ per person, with an optional 5-glass wine pairing available for an additional $50++ per guest.

Amouse Bouche Lily’s: Emerald Yellow Fin 4.2/5

The evening begins on an elegant note with a trio of amuse-bouches that set the tone for the journey ahead. Chef Pop’s Emerald Yellow Fin (翡翠黄鳍) is both delicate and expressive — a matcha-infused crisp crowned with yellowfin tuna tartare, avocado-matcha puree, and ikura. The interplay of earthy matcha and the natural sweetness of the tuna creates a refreshing opening, lifted by the gentle salinity of roe.

Amuse Bouche Man Fu Yuan: Ocean Elixir 3.5/5

Following that, Chef Aaron’s Ocean Elixir (海之清露) offers a chilled Teochew-style seafood consomme, its clarity and depth enhanced by fragrant lemongrass aromatics that lend a subtle Southeast Asian lift.

Cold Prelude Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Pu’er Whisper 4/5

Completing the opening sequence is Pu’er Whisper (普洱烟韵), a collaborative creation featuring lightly smoked kingfish paired with smoked Pu’er tea, Tubtim Siam pomelo, Thai chilli puree, and calamansi. The dish delivers a refined balance of smokiness, citrus brightness, and restrained heat, showcasing the harmony between both culinary traditions.

Soup Man Fu Yuan: Silk Tofu Consomme 4.5/5

The Silk Tofu Consomme (极汤锦绣豆腐, 奶白菜) is a masterclass in Cantonese technique. The consomme, painstakingly prepared from pork, chicken, and Chinese cured meats, is steamed over eight hours to achieve remarkable clarity and depth. Paired with handcrafted flower tofu of silky, almost ethereal texture, the dish reflects the discipline and finesse that define classical Cantonese cuisine.

Ocean Lily’s: Chiang Mai Khao Soi Softshell Crab 4.2/5

Thai influences come to the forefront with Chiang Mai Khao Soi Softshell Crab (清迈软壳蟹) by Chef Pop. Here, sustainable softshell crab is paired with yellow noodles and ikura, all enveloped in a rich, aromatic Chiang Mai curry. The dish reimagines the beloved Northern Thai staple with a contemporary touch, balancing creaminess, spice, and umami.

Poultry Man Fu Yuan: Perfumed Duck 5/5

A highlight from Man Fu Yuan is the Perfumed Duck (幽香泰茶鸭). The Irish duck breast is roasted and tea leaf-smoked, imparting a subtle smokiness that complements its tender, succulent flesh. A tamarind glaze adds a gentle tang, while plum tomatoes add brightness, resulting in a dish that elegantly bridges Cantonese roasting traditions with Thai-inspired acidity and fragrance.

Signature Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Typhoon Lobster 4.2/5

The collaboration reaches a crescendo with the Typhoon Lobster (泰风 · 蒜香龙虾), a defining creation that encapsulates the menu’s spirit. Inspired by Cantonese “Typhoon Shelter” style cooking, the rock lobster is elevated with Thai and Southeast Asian aromatics. Crispy garlic, dried chilli, and a fragrant tom yum essence deliver layers of complexity, marrying wok hei intensity with vibrant spice and citrus notes.

Heritage Lily’s: Massaman Wagyu Short Rib 4/5

Chef Pop’s Massaman Wagyu Short Rib (玛莎曼和牛) is another standout, offering a luxurious interpretation of the classic Southern Thai curry. The Wagyu short rib is slow-braised to fork-tender perfection, absorbing the deep, aromatic spices of the Massaman curry. Finished with a velvety Southern curry hollandaise, crispy fried shallots, and kaffir lime essence, the dish strikes a harmonious balance between richness and brightness.

The Scallop Legacy (带子皇炒饭) by Chef Aaron reinterprets Cantonese baked fragrant rice with king scallop, preserved vegetables, and cheese. Presented with a tableside flourish, the dish captivates both visually and aromatically — so much so that it momentarily distracts from taking a photo of it — but its comforting yet elevated flavours leave a lasting impression.

Palate Cleanser Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Lime Lychee Cloud 4.2/5

A refreshing Lime Lychee Cloud cleanses the palate with its light, aromatic profile. The lychee sorbet, infused with kaffir lime and lemongrass, is bright and uplifting, preparing diners for the dessert finale.

Dessert Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Golden Mango Duo Symphony Rice Pudding Mango 4.5/5

Dessert arrives in a duo that celebrates tropical indulgence. The Golden Mango Duo Symphony Rice Pudding Mango pairs creamy rice pudding with coconut and vanilla sauce, offering a comforting, luscious finish.

Dessert Lily's & Man Fu Yuan: Mango Puree 4/5

This is complemented by a chilled Mango Puree with pink pomelo and peach collagen, delivering a refreshing contrast with its clean, fruity sweetness.

Petite Four Man Fu Yuan: Milk Tea Egg Tart, Pandan Red Date Cake 4/5

Threads of Fire & Spice is a compelling showcase of culinary synergy, where two distinct traditions intertwine seamlessly. Chef Aaron and Chef Pop demonstrate how contrasting techniques and flavour philosophies can come together in harmony, creating a dining experience that is both refined and exciting. With its limited two-day run, this collaboration offers a rare opportunity to experience a thoughtfully orchestrated dialogue between Cantonese elegance and Thai vibrancy.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Man Fu Yuan
Frasers House
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Permata @ Kampong Glam - Singapore's First-ever Nusantara Halal Buffet

Permata, located within the historic Gedung Kuning (Yellow Mansion) in Kampong Glam, Singapore’s first-ever Nusantara halal buffet showcases the diverse culinary heritage of the Malay Archipelago. Helmed by celebrity chef Mel Dean, the buffet presents innovative interpretations of traditional recipes, blending heritage with modern flair.

“Nusantara” is an old Javanese term referring to the interconnected islands of the Malay world. At Permata, diners can savour dishes inspired by six countries within the archipelago — Indonesia, Southern Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and East Timor. The menu changes every one to two months, and this June’s edition presents the vibrant flavours of Penang through a buffet spread of over 50 dishes.

Stir-Fried Chilli Mussels & Clams

Kari Telur

Sambal Udang

Daging Hitam Berempah

We dived straight into the hearty Warisan Pulau Pinang Station, which featured some of Penang’s most iconic Nasi Kandar accompaniments. Our plate was loaded with Stir-Fried Chilli Mussels & Clams, Sambal Udang, Kari Telur, Kari Ikan Mamak, Ayam Goreng Bawang, Daging Hitam Berempah, Okra and Stir-Fried Cabbage. The Ayam Goreng Bawang and Daging Hitam Berempah were particular standouts, both offering tender, succulent meat infused with robust spices and rich curry flavours.

One of the more interesting finds was the Nyonya Chang, a Peranakan glutinous rice dumpling shaped like a parcel, filled with blue pea flower-tinted rice. Within is a flavourful filling of braised chicken, mushrooms and aromatic spices.

Penang Char Koay Teow

Another Penang classic on offer was the Penang Char Koay Teow. While slightly different from the traditional rendition, it remained indulgent with prawns, egg, bean sprouts and chives. The stir-fried carrot cake was satisfying, generously studded with savoury egg throughout.

Assam Laksa

No Penang-themed spread would be complete without Assam Laksa, available at the DIY noodle station. Also featured was Mee Sotong Penang, inspired by the famous Hameed Pata Mee Sotong in George Town. Thick yellow noodles were coated in a rich, sweet-spicy sauce accented with tamarind, peanut and sambal chilli. The dish leaned towards the sweeter side, owing to Chef Mel Dean’s addition of sweet potato purée, which further enhanced its sweetness.

Complementing the richly flavoured mains was a selection of refreshing Nusantara Salads, including Penang Rojak.

During dinner service, guests can also enjoy an additional grill station featuring a wholesome selection of meats and seafood. Offerings included Chicken and Mutton Satay, Barramundi Bakar and Ayam Bakar Serai. The Barramundi Bakar impressed with its moist, tender flesh, while the Ayam Bakar Serai stood out for its enticing smoky char and fragrant lemongrass notes.

Also popular at Permata is its Seafood on Ice selection, and sambals, crackers, and both hot and cold desserts.

From 1 to 30 June 2026, enjoy a 1-for-1 Buffet (for adult guests only).
Lunch: $88++ for 2 Pax (U.P. $176++ for 2 Pax)
Dinner: $108++ for 2 Pax (U.P. $216++ for 2 Pax)
Children below 7 years old get to dine for free

Permata also offers affordable discounted prices for senior citizens, youths and children.

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.


Permata
73 Sultan Gate
Singapore 198497
Tel: +65 9082 9941
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Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 5pm - 7pm, 730pm -930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT Station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge and walk to the end of the overhead bridge. Cross the road and walk down Beach Road. Turn left onto Sultan Gate Road. Walk down Sultan Gate Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao @ Bugis Junction - Presents Refreshed Menu of Northern Chinese cuisine

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao presents a refreshed menu that showcases the richness and diversity of Northern Chinese cuisine. The new line-up spans refined appetisers, slow-braised delicacies and robust wok-fried dishes, highlighting distinctive regional flavours and homestyle cooking traditions.

Classic Shanghai Xiao Long Bao 5/5

The restaurant’s signature Classic Shanghai Xiao Long Bao ($9.80/6 pcs) remains a staple and crowd favourite.

Shanghai Style Smoked Fish 4.5/5

The Shanghai Style Smoked Fish ($12.80) is a classic Shanghainese dish featuring fish slices marinated and deep-fried, then coated in a glossy, sticky glaze. Despite the frying, the fish retained a commendable level of moisture within, making it both flavourful and satisfying.

Wuxi Deep-fried Whitebait 4/5

From the waterways of Wuxi comes the Wuxi Deep-fried Whitebait ($9.80), a simple yet enjoyable dish that reflects the riverside culture and abundant aquatic produce of Jiangsu province.

Crispy Duck Served with Egg Crepe 3.8/5

The Crispy Duck Served with Egg Crepe ($24.80) offers a textural twist on the traditional Peking Duck. The duck arrived crisp and golden with a light, airy batter, accompanied by homemade egg crepes, scallions and cucumber. A chef’s secret sauce tied all the components together, creating a well-balanced and flavourful bite.

Shanghai Braised Pork Belly 4.5/5

Among the highlights was the Shanghai Braised Pork Belly with Beancurd Skin Knots ($20.80), a comforting homestyle dish rooted in old Shanghai. The braising sauce was reduced to a rich, sticky glaze that coated the chunky ingredients beautifully. Both the pork belly and beancurd skin knots were braised until tender, with the unctuous pork belly melting in the mouth.

Shanghai Stir-fried Thick Noodle 4.5/5

The Shanghai Stir-fried Thick Noodle with Shredded Pork & Cabbage ($15.80) is a wholesome plate of everyday flavours of Shanghai’s culinary heritage. We particularly enjoyed the well-balanced ratio of springy, thick noodles to shredded pork and vegetables. The dark soy-based sauce lent the dish a satisfying depth of flavour without overwhelming the other ingredients.

The refreshed menu is available at the Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao outlets at Bugis Junction, i12 Katong, and Toa Payoh.

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.


Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao
Bugis Junction
200 Victoria Street
#B1-04A
Singapore 188021
Tel: +65 83338978
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Pang Pang (胖哥俩肉蟹煲) @ Guoco Midtown II - New Dishes & Generational Dining Deals for a Hearty Seafood Feast

Returning to Pang Pang (胖哥俩肉蟹煲) at Guoco Midtown II always feels like coming back to a familiar spot for indulgent, sauce-laden seafood pots. This time, the visit was made even more meaningful with the brand’s Parents’ Day promotion, running from 1 May to 30 June 2026. Designed to encourage family bonding over a communal feast, diners can enjoy up to 30% off their signature pots — 30% for three generations, 20% for two, and 10% for one. It’s a timely reason to gather loved ones around the table.

We were here to try some of their new dishes, alongside a new variation of their signature pot.

Spicy Prawn Crab Pot 4.5/5

The highlight of the meal was undoubtedly the new Spicy Prawn Crab Pot ($88), a decadent, flavour-packed centrepiece built for sharing. This latest variation brings together two premium seafood ingredients — crabs and prawns — in a robust, savoury-spicy sauce enriched with crab butter and aromatic spices.

The pot arrives brimming with ingredients, including tender chicken feet, soft potatoes, chewy rice cakes, and silky tofu, all steeped in a deeply umami-rich gravy. The chicken feet and potatoes stood out once again, having soaked up the sauce beautifully and cooked down to a soft, almost melt-in-the-mouth texture.

The crabs were fresh and meaty, with the claws thoughtfully pre-cracked, making it easy to enjoy without the usual effort. The prawns were plump and juicy, adding a satisfying bite and sweetness that balanced the spice. Altogether, it’s a hearty, indulgent dish that truly embodies the communal dining experience Pang Pang is known for.

Pineapple Shrimp 4/5

To balance the richness of the pot, the Pineapple Shrimp ($16.80) offers a refreshing contrast. Served cold, this newly introduced side dish features succulent peeled prawns paired with juicy pineapple chunks. The combination delivers a bright interplay of sweetness and tanginess, acting as a palate cleanser between bites of the heavier dishes. Light, refreshing and well-executed, it’s a thoughtful addition to the menu that complements the bold flavours of the mains.

Scallion Infused Noodles 3.5/5

A good carbohydrate pairing is essential when tackling Pang Pang’s rich pots, and the Scallion Infused Noodles ($5.80) fit the role well. The noodles are cooked to a pleasing texture, retaining a springy bite. Tossed in a fragrant blend of scallion oil and soy sauces, the noodles take on a glossy sheen and a savoury depth. The addition of crispy browned scallion bits adds a smoky aroma and extra layer of flavour. While simple, it serves as a comforting base to soak up the leftover sauce from the pot.

Deep Fried Chicken Wings 4/5

The Deep Fried Chicken Wings ($12.80) remain a reliable crowd-pleaser. Each wing is fried to a crisp golden-brown exterior, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite, while the meat inside stays juicy and tender. Lightly seasoned with a savoury spice blend, the wings are flavourful without being overly heavy, making them an addictive starter or side to share around the table.

Pang Pang continues to impress with its hearty, flavour-forward seafood pots designed for communal dining. The new Spicy Prawn Crab Pot is a worthy addition, offering indulgence and bold flavours in every bite. Paired with the refreshing Pineapple Shrimp and comforting sides, the experience feels well-rounded and satisfying. With the ongoing Parents’ Day promotion, there’s no better time to gather family across generations and enjoy a feast together. After all, few things bring people closer than sharing a big pot of rich, comforting food.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pang Pang (胖哥俩肉蟹煲)
Guoco Midtown II
20 Tan Quee Lan Street
# 01-13/16
Singapore 188107
Tel: +65 8084 9068
Facebook
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Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Turn left and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]