Rempapa @ National Gallery Singapore - Heritage Flavours in a Casual Rice-Based Dining Concept

Rempapa, the Michelin-selected restaurant by Chef Damian D’Silva, relocated to National Gallery Singapore in November 2025, bringing its celebration of Singapore’s multi-ethnic heritage to one of the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks. While Rempapa continues to champion the flavours and culinary traditions that have shaped Singapore, the new outlet takes a slightly different approach, placing a greater emphasis on rice-based dishes and familiar local favourites. The concept is also more casual and accessible, operating as a fully self-service restaurant that makes it easy to enjoy Chef Damian’s heritage recipes without the formality of a traditional sit-down restaurant. The space reflects that same philosophy. Natural light, warm tones and simple yet thoughtful décor create a welcoming environment that feels homely and relaxed. It is a fitting setting for food that is rooted in tradition, yet presented in a way that works well for today’s diners.

Babi Pongteh 4.8/5

Tofu

Braised Vegetable

The Babi Pongteh Rice Set ($17.90) was easily one of our meal’s favourites. A classic Peranakan dish, Babi Pongteh sees pork slowly braised with fermented soybean paste, garlic and shallots until the meat becomes incredibly tender and deeply infused with the rich, savoury-sweet braising sauce. The pork belly here was very well executed. The meat was beautifully braised, with the sauce penetrating the layers of pork and fat for an almost melt-in-the-mouth texture. It was rich and comforting without being overly heavy, with the fermented soybean paste adding plenty of depth and umami. The accompanying braised vegetables and tofu rounded out the meal, while the mushrooms were particularly enjoyable. Plump, juicy and thoroughly soaked in the braising sauce, they released a burst of savoury flavour with every bite. For fans of Peranakan flavours, this dish is worth seeking out.

Ayam Berempah 4.5/5

The Ayam Berempah ($9.90) offers a more affordable but equally satisfying option. The set comes with a deep-fried spiced chicken thigh, hard-boiled egg, peanuts, achar, ikan bilis and sambal. The chicken is marinated in a fragrant spice blend before frying, giving the exterior a lovely aromatic crust while keeping the interior tender and juicy. The accompanying condiments add plenty of flavour, too. Crunchy peanuts and ikan bilis add texture, while the achar brings a refreshing tang to balance the richness of the fried chicken. The sambal provides a gentle kick and ties everything together nicely. At just $9.90, it is particularly good value considering the location. Finding a satisfying heritage-style meal for under $10 in the heart of town is increasingly difficult. Our only slight disappointment was the rice. It comes with plain rice, and we felt a fragrant coconut rice would have complemented the Ayam Berempah even better, adding another layer of richness and aroma to the dish.

Kueh Platter of 6pc 4.2/5

We ended the meal with the Kueh Platter ($14 for 6 pieces), a rotating selection of handcrafted traditional kuehs freshly prepared from scratch by the kitchen. The platter offers a nice opportunity to sample several different local sweets in one sitting. During our visit, the selection included Kueh Bengkah, Kueh Salat, Sago Bandung, Sarang Semut, Kueh Kosui and Sugee Cake. Each brings something different, from the soft, fragrant textures of the traditional rice-based kuehs to the richer, butterier Sugee Cake. The variety also makes this a good option for sharing, particularly if you want to explore some of Singapore’s traditional sweets without committing to a single dessert. It was a delightful, nostalgic way to end the meal, and it reinforces Rempapa’s focus on preserving and showcasing the diverse flavours of our culinary heritage.

Rempapa’s move to National Gallery Singapore puts Chef Damian D’Silva’s heritage-driven cooking in a more casual, accessible format. The shift towards rice-based dishes and local favourites makes the menu approachable, while the flavours remain firmly rooted in the traditions that Rempapa has always championed. The Babi Pongteh Rice Set was the standout for us, with exceptionally tender pork belly and deeply flavourful braising sauce. At the same time, the Ayam Berempah is an attractive option for those looking for an affordable meal in the city. With its self-service format, welcoming setting, and accessible pricing, Rempapa at National Gallery Singapore works well for a quick lunch, a casual meal, or even a stop after exploring the galleries. More importantly, it continues Chef Damian’s mission of keeping Singapore’s heritage flavours alive, one comforting plate at a time.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Rempapa
National Gallery Singapore
1 St Andrew’s Road
#01-02A
Singapore 178957
Tel: +65 94591603
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 7pm

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 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
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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]

Milli Sky Dining & Bar @ National Gallery Singapore - Singapore’s All-Star Rooftop Dining & Nightlife Entertainment Destination

Perched atop the iconic National Gallery Singapore, Milli Sky Dining & Bar arrives as one of the year’s most anticipated openings, redefining the city’s dining and nightlife landscape with a bold, multi-sensory concept. Helmed by an all-star collective — LG Han, Vijay Mudaliar, and the team behind Bae’s Cocktail Club led by Sheen Jet Leong and Dharma Wang — Milli is conceived as a seamless journey that flows from refined daytime dining to high-energy nightlife, all set against panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline.

Milli unfolds across two distinct spaces. Upstairs, Milli: Sky Dining & Bar offers an intimate and polished setting where the focus is on thoughtful cuisine and progressive cocktails. Downstairs, Milli: Lounge channels a completely different energy — a vibrant, music-driven enclave inspired by the DNA of Bae’s, spinning everything from disco and funk to hip hop and R&B, bridging nostalgia with contemporary beats until the early hours.

Chef Han's Kacang Putih 4/5

Chef Han’s Kacang Putih ($10) is a nostalgic opener elevated with finesse — rempah-spiced macadamias, crunchy muruku and candied pistachios come together in a fragrant medley that reflects the harmony of Malay, Indian and Chinese influences. Each component is carefully seasoned in-house, resulting in a snack that is both familiar and refined.

Popiah Tarts 4/5

Equally inventive are the Popiah Tarts ($18). Built on delicate tart shells fashioned from popiah skin, each bite delivers a complex interplay of textures — from the sweetness of braised jicama to the umami richness of gambero rosso prawn and lap cheong, punctuated by dashi jelly and bursts of finger lime. It’s a one-bite experience that captures the essence of popiah in a completely new form.

Cereal Corn Ribs 4.2/5

The Cereal Corn Ribs ($24) offer a playful nod to zi char culture, swapping prawns for sweet corn ribs, fried to a crisp and coated in an aromatic cereal mix. Paired with a nostalgic sweet curry dip, it cleverly evokes familiar flavours while presenting them in a lighter, vegetarian-friendly format.

Chef Han’s Signature Chilli Crab Ice Cream 3.8/5

Pushing boundaries further is the Signature Chilli Crab Ice Cream ($32), an unexpected yet surprisingly harmonious combination of Japanese zuwaigani crab, tomato, and strawberry elements. Each spoonful balances savoury, sweet and tangy notes, challenging perceptions of what a dessert can be.

Alaskan King Crab Leg 4.2/5

The Alaskan King Crab Leg ($108) is simplicity at its finest — charcoal-grilled and brushed with brown butter, letting the crab’s natural sweetness shine. The accompanying white pepper and salted egg sauces offer diners a choice between elegance and indulgence.

MIL-LY Smashed Burger 4.2/5

The MIL-LY Smashed Burger ($28) pays homage to Singapore’s beloved Ramly burger, upgraded with juicy Wagyu patties, caramelised onions, and a rich house-made sauce. Messy, satisfying and indulgent, it captures the spirit of late-night supper culture with a premium twist.

Grilled British Cod’s Head 4/5

One of the more intriguing dishes is the Grilled British Cod’s Head ($36), a bold reinterpretation of assam fish head curry. The use of beurre blanc introduces a French touch, while pickled vegetables and crispy prata anchor the dish in local familiarity.

Chicken Rice Paella 3/5

Meanwhile, the Chicken Rice Paella ($24) bridges two comfort food icons. Cooked with pandan-infused stock and finished with a coveted crispy base, the glutinous rice is paired with roasted chicken and classic condiments, creating a dish that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

Peranakan Spritz 

Under the direction of Vijay Mudaliar, the cocktail programme is just as thoughtful, weaving local narratives into each glass.

The Peranakan Spritz ($26) is light and aromatic, combining Hendrick’s Gin and St-Germain with clarified calamansi, coconut and ginger flower. The addition of kueh salat as a garnish ties the drink back to its cultural inspiration.

Whisky Green Tea 

The Whisky Green Tea ($26) revisits a familiar nightlife staple, elevating it with sencha distillate, yuzu and a delicate matcha foam for a more refined expression.

The Milli 

The Milli ($28) is a playful revival of the forgotten Million Dollar cocktail, originally created in Singapore by the same bartender behind the iconic Singapore Sling. This modern rendition swaps in a house-made mandarin grenadine, lifted with bright notes of yuzu and pineapple, before being rounded off with fino sherry and dry vermouth. The result is a beautifully balanced cocktail that leans dry yet aromatic, offering a refined, contemporary take on a historic classic.

The Singapore Breakfast 

For something playful, The Singapore Breakfast ($26) transforms the idea of kaya toast into a slushie-style cocktail, blending Martell Noblige with kaya, coffee liqueur and gula melaka — comforting yet refreshingly modern.

Bandung Kakigori 4/5

Ending on a high note is the Bandung Kakigori ($28), a collaborative dessert that encapsulates nostalgia and creativity. Layers of pickled fruits, nata de coco, ispahan sorbet and sake kasu come together beneath a cloud of shaved ice, finished with meringue and rose liqueur. Each spoonful evolves in flavour, making it as dynamic as it is refreshing.

Milli Sky Dining & Bar is more than just a restaurant — it is a multi-dimensional experience that captures the spirit of modern Singapore. By weaving together heritage flavours, contemporary techniques and an immersive nightlife concept, the team has created a destination that feels both ambitious and deeply rooted in local identity. Whether you’re here for a sunset dinner, inventive cocktails, or a late-night dance session, Milli offers a compelling new way to dine, drink and celebrate in the city.

Note: This is an invited tasting.



Milli Sky Dining & Bar
National Gallery Singapore
1 St Andrew's Road
#05-02
Singapore 178957
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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 about 5 minutes. [Map]

DOMO Modern Japanese @ Fairmont Hotel - Refined Japanese Cuisine with a Contemporary Twist

DOMO Modern Japanese may be just over a year old, but it’s already making its mark on Singapore’s dining scene with its contemporary take on Japanese cuisine. Named after the Japanese expression “Domo Arigatou” (“thank you”), the restaurant combines Japanese techniques with subtle European influences in a refined yet approachable setting.

Leading the kitchen is Chef Rose Ang, whose 29 years of culinary experience include working with Nobu Hospitality across Europe. Her global experience is reflected throughout the menu, where Japanese flavours are thoughtfully complemented by European touches, resulting in dishes that are balanced, elegant and never overcomplicated.

Salmon Tataki 4/5

We started with the Salmon Tataki ($22), lightly seared and served with Dijon miso sauce and a balsamic glaze. The gentle smokiness from the aburi edges complements the rich salmon beautifully. At the same time, the Dijon miso adds a savoury depth before the balsamic cuts through with just enough acidity to keep every bite balanced. It’s a great introduction to Chef Rose’s signature approach of marrying Japanese techniques with European influences.

Chawanmushi 3.8/5

The Chawanmushi ($18) arrives generously filled with prawn, crab meat and ikura. Seafood lovers will appreciate its natural sweetness, though diners more sensitive to stronger seafood flavours may find it slightly fish-forward. The silky steamed egg provides a comforting base that lets the fresh seafood shine.

Sashimi Salad with Nashi Pear Dressing 5/5

Instead of the usual sashimi platter, we opted for the Sashimi Salad with Nashi Pear Dressing ($24), and it turned out to be one of our favourite dishes. The combination of fresh sashimi, crisp greens and crunchy nashi pear created a refreshing contrast of textures, while the dressing was light and well-balanced without being overly sweet.

Sashimi Taco 5/5

The Sashimi Taco ($18 for 2 pieces) comes in different variations, and we tried both the salmon and tuna versions. The Salmon Taco, paired with tomato shiso salsa, was pleasant and approachable, though the flavours leaned toward the milder side. We thought a spicy variation would give it a little more excitement.

Tuna Taco 5/5

The Tuna version, on the other hand, was outstanding. The combination of tuna, avocado and feta created a richer and more balanced flavour profile, making this our preferred choice between the two.

Snow Crab & Tobiko Baked Rice 4.8/5

For mains, we had the Snow Crab & Tobiko Baked Rice ($48), which was generously topped with sweet snow crab, while the rice carried a subtle ginger fragrance that complemented the seafood without overpowering it. Comforting, satisfying and perfect for sharing, this is a dish we’d happily order again.

Domo Sour 4/5

The drinks menu offers a surprisingly good selection at reasonable prices. We tried the Domo Sour ($16), a whisky-based cocktail with bitters and yuzu. Smooth, citrusy and refreshing, it paired well with the seafood dishes throughout the meal.

Sticky Ginger Date Pudding 5/5

Chef Rose recommended her signature Sticky Ginger Date Pudding ($16), served with soy toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream. Replacing salt with soy sauce was an interesting touch, adding subtle savouriness to the dessert. The pudding itself reminded us of a Chinese red date and ginger steamed cake, while the vanilla ice cream made it richer and more indulgent.

Chilled Mango Gazpacho 4/5

For something lighter, we also tried the Chilled Mango Gazpacho with Yuzu Shiso Pomelo ($22). Think of it as a refined take on the classic Hong Kong mango pomelo dessert, elevated with fragrant shiso and yuzu. Refreshing and not overly sweet, it was a lovely way to end the meal.

Beyond the food, we were pleasantly surprised by the restaurant’s spacious layout. DOMO features four private dining rooms with minimum spend starting at just $80 per person, making it a great option for celebrations, corporate gatherings, or intimate dinners. Combined with its elegant ambience and thoughtfully curated menu, DOMO delivers a dining experience that feels polished yet welcoming.

Beyond the signature dishes we tried, DOMO offers an extensive à la carte menu featuring sashimi, sushi, robata-grilled seafood and meats, noodles and rice, giving diners plenty of reasons to return and explore more of the menu. For those seeking a more curated experience, Chef Rose also offers a Signature Tasting Menu from $88++, with bespoke omakase experiences starting at $300++.

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


DOMO
Fairmont Singapore
252 North Bridge Road
#03-00
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 89108835
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

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