Showing posts with label .Area: Orchard. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Area: Orchard. Show all posts

Monday, January 19, 2026

Chen’s Kitchen @ Paragon Shopping Centre - Welcoming Lunar New Year With Festive Set Reunion Menus

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For the upcoming Lunar New Year, Chen's Kitchen at Paragon Shopping Centre has introduced festive set Reunion Menus featuring its well-loved signatures alongside new dishes that will be added to the regular menu after CNY 2026.

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Prosperity Yu Sheng 3/5

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Double-boiled Lotus Root and Pork Rib Soup 3/5

The Blossom Set ($328++ for 4 pax) begins with a classic Prosperity Yu Sheng, followed by a comforting Double-boiled Lotus Root and Pork Rib Soup. The soup was simple, homely, and soothing.

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Mapo Tofu Original 4.2/5

Three of Chen's Kitchen's signatures anchor this set. The Mapo Tofu Original did not disappoint, delivering umami-packed flavours with silky tofu that carried the sauce beautifully.

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Sweet and Sour Barramundi 3/5

The Sweet and Sour Barramundi was delectable overall, though the fried exterior on the leaner parts of the fish leaned slightly thicker than preferred, resulting in more crust than meat. The sauce also skewed a little too sweet for my palate.

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Mala Mayo Prawns 4.5/5

On the other hand, the Mala Mayo Prawns were succulent, elevated by a coating of mala mayonnaise on the exterior that delivered an indulgent, creamy mouthfeel.

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Chen's Black Sweet and Sour Pork 4.8/5

Our family favourite was undoubtedly Chen's Black Sweet and Sour Pork. Each morsel was firm yet tender and deeply savoury, with a rich, well-balanced flavour that leaned more towards umami rather than tanginess.

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Gongbao Chicken 4/5

The Gongbao Chicken was visually appealing, featuring tender, well-marinated chicken complemented by asparagus that added a refreshing crunch.

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Szechwan French Beans with Mushrooms 4.5/5

The Szechwan French Beans with Mushrooms were thoroughly moreish, with crunchy beans paired with savoury minced meat, making it easy to keep reaching for more.

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Double-Boiled Pear with Snow Fungus and Red Dates 3.8/5

To complement the flavoursome dishes, dessert is a refreshing chilled Double-Boiled Pear with Snow Fungus and Red Dates, offering a light and soothing finish to the meal.

4-Pax, 6-Pax and 8-Pax Reunion Menus are available for dine-in, takeaway and delivery

Promotions
Citi Cardmembers Exclusive — 20% Off CNY Set Menus (Valid from 9 Jan – 3 Mar 2026, excluding 16–18 Feb)
Early Bird Special — 15% Off for reservations by 31 Jan 2026 (10% Off 16–18 Feb)
Free Fortune Cat Blind Box with any set menu or Yusheng purchase
Angbao Giveaway (5 Jan – 3 Mar, while stocks last) with prizes including discounts on CNY sets, Yusheng offers, complimentary appetisers, or drinks

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chen's Kitchen
Paragon Shopping Centre
200 Orchard Road
#B1-43
Singapore 238859
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Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line), Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. At the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link, cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 2 or 3. Proceed to the road level. Walk down Orchard Road until the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road and walk to Paragon. Journey time is about 12 minutes. [Map]

Monday, January 12, 2026

Goodwood Park Hotel's Lunar New Year Line Up For Year of The Horse

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Goodwood Park Hotel welcomes the Year of the Horse with a lavish spread of Lunar New Year delicacies, available for walk-in purchase at The Deli, Min Jiang and Min Jiang at Dempsey from 23 January to 3 March 2026. Drawing inspiration from the horse – a symbol of strength, vitality and progress – this year's offerings showcase refined craftsmanship, premium ingredients and flavours that balance tradition with modern finesse.

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Blossoming Prosperity 'Lo Hei' 4.5/5

Priced at $288++ (Dine-In) | $313.90 nett (Takeaway/Delivery), the Blossoming Prosperity 'Lo Hei' by Master Chef Goh Chee Kong is a refreshing departure from conventional yu sheng. Designed for diners seeking something more contemporary, the yu sheng is artfully shaped like an elegant fan, symbolising prosperity and good fortune. What truly stands out is the generous medley of evenly diced fresh fruits – strawberry, kiwi, blueberry, melon, dragon fruit and apple – lending natural sweetness, tang and vibrancy to every bite. The sauce, crafted from apple juice, ginger flower and sour plum, is well-balanced and uplifting, tying the ingredients together without overpowering them. Textural contrast comes from crunchy fried yams and carrot strips, pine nuts and crisp romaine lettuce. Completing this luxurious creation is a premium trio of abalone, raw salmon and lobster, making this a celebratory and indulgent way to kick-start the Lunar New Year feast.

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Min Jiang Five Treasures Appetiser Platter 3.5/5

The Min Jiang Five Treasures Appetiser Platter is priced at $168++ (Dine-In) | $183.10 nett (Takeaway/Delivery) and serves as an elegant prelude to the reunion meal. The platter features a quintet of appetisers: Deep-fried Shrimp with Mango Mayonnaise, Chilled Baby Abalone with Spicy Lime Sauce, Pan-fried Iberico Pork Belly, Shanghainese Smoked Sea Perch Fillet, and Marinated Sea Jelly with Sesame. Each item offers a distinct flavour profile, from creamy and fruity to smoky and savoury. While the platter is refined and visually pleasing, some components stood out more than others, making it a pleasant but not overly memorable starter.

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Braised Whole Spring Chicken, Abalone, Dace Fish stuffed in Fortune Bag and Sea Treasures in Pot 4.5/5

Priced at $288++ (Dine-In) | $313.90 nett (Takeaway/Delivery), the nourishing Braised Whole Spring Chicken, Abalone, Dace Fish stuffed in Fortune Bag and Sea Treasures in Pot is one of the highlights of the festive menu. A whole spring chicken is painstakingly deboned for a refined dining experience, then generously stuffed with water chestnuts, Australian abalone, premium fish maw, dried scallop and pork tendon. The addition of dace fish stuffed in a fortune bag adds both symbolism and depth. Double-boiled for over three hours, the resulting broth is rich, collagen-laden and deeply comforting, showcasing time-honoured techniques that shine through in every spoonful. Presented in a rustic claypot, this dish is both visually impressive and immensely satisfying.

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Braised Boneless Pork Knuckle, Abalone, Minced Shrimp & Chicken stuffed in Lotus Root and Sea Treasures in Pot 4.5/5

At $398++ (Dine-In) | $433.80 nett (Takeaway/Delivery), this luxurious Braised Boneless Pork Knuckle, Abalone, Minced Shrimp & Chicken stuffed in Lotus Root and Sea Treasures in Pot is a celebration of texture and patience. The boneless pork knuckle is slowly braised for over three hours until fork-tender, absorbing the rich flavours of the braising sauce. A standout component is the lotus root slices, deep-fried and generously stuffed with shrimp and chicken paste. Lightly steamed, they offer a delightful contrast of crunch and savouriness. Served alongside abalone and other auspicious sea treasures, this dish is hearty, indulgent and well-suited for a celebratory reunion meal.

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Claypot Reunion Rice 4.5/5

The Claypot Reunion Rice, priced at $150.40 nett (small) | $215.80 nett (large), is a comforting Cantonese staple elevated for the festive season. The fragrant rice is crowned with preserved Chinese pork sausages, liver, waxed duck leg and succulent pork belly. Drizzled and tossed with supreme soy sauce, the rice is aromatic and flavourful, making it a satisfying centrepiece to accompany the richer dishes on the table.

Goodwood Park Hotel's Lunar New Year offerings for 2026 strike a commendable balance between tradition and modern elegance. From the refreshing, fruit-forward yu sheng to the nourishing double-boiled soups and indulgent claypot dishes, the menu caters well to both festive symbolism and gastronomic pleasure. All Lunar New Year specials are available from 23 January to 3 March 2026, with a minimum five-day advance order required for takeaways. The last pre-order date is 27 February 2026. Online pre-orders open from 11 January 2026 via goodwoodparkfestive.oddle.me, with options for self-collection or delivery.

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

SO DO FUN (蜀都丰) @ The Centrepoint - Authentic Sichuan Cuisine Restaurant Opens Third Outlet in Town

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SO DO FUN (蜀都丰) joined our local F&B scene in June 2024 and has since opened its newest and third outlet at The Centrepoint, nestled among the vibrant dining options in the basement. The restaurant is helmed by Master Chef Peng Zi Yu, who is recognised as the Sichuan cuisine mentor to international artiste and celebrity chef Nicholas Tse.

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SO DO FUN prides itself on using exceptionally fresh fish, with live fish delivered daily from Malaysia. Each fish is freshly filleted and cooked only upon order. Their other two outlets are located in Bugis and Punggol.

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Mashed Eggplant with Chilli 4/5

Our lunch began with the Mashed Eggplant with Chilli ($11.80), served chilled. The dish was distinctly garlicky and mild on the spice.

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Boiled Fresh Fish in Spicy Broth 4.5/5

The main highlight arrived next, the Boiled Fresh Fish in Spicy Broth ($49.80 for Large), which comfortably feeds 3 to 4 pax. A smaller 2-pax portion is also available at $29.80. We went with their signature Spicy Broth, though Sauerkraut and Fiery broths are available as alternatives. I recommend adding a bowl of Wuchang Rice ($1.50) to pair with it.

True to their commitment to freshness, the tender fish slices were paired with bean sprouts, kelp, beancurd skin, cucumber and konjac strips, all submerged in a robust, aromatic and numbing broth. While some may find this on the oilier and saltier side, we found it authentic and deeply flavourful.

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Grilled Prawns with Vermicelli and Minced Garlic 4.2/5

During our previous visit, the Grilled Prawns with Vermicelli and Minced Garlic ($18.80) were cooked tableside on a gas stove. Now fully prepared in the kitchen, the dish remains just as satisfying, with the vermicelli thoroughly soaked in its fragrant, garlicky housemade sauce.

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Stir-Fried Pork with Chilli Peppers 4.2/5

Next was the Stir-Fried Pork with Chilli Peppers ($17.80), featuring tender pork slices, charred chillies and crunchy white fungus. It delivered a gentle heat alongside a pleasant smokiness.

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Chengdu Mapo Tofu 4/5

The Chengdu Mapo Tofu ($11.80) uses a firmer tofu, coated in a spicy, savoury sauce with minced pork. The heat here packed a punch.

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Braised Fresh Tofu Skin with Eggs 4/5

Recommended by the staff, the Braised Fresh Tofu Skin with Eggs ($13.80) offered a comforting, non-spicy contrast to the rest of the meal. It was mild, hearty and well-balanced.

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Jasmine Lemon Tea 4.2/5

To end, the Jasmine Lemon Tea ($3.50) was refreshing, fragrant, and mildly sweetened, perfect after all the spice. It also came in a pretty big cup, which we appreciated.

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


SO DO FUN (蜀都丰)
The Centrepoint
#B1-17
176 Orchard Road
Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 6298 7572
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Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (NS Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Go to ground level. Exit the building. Cross the road and turn right on Orchard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, January 4, 2026

Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro @ Hilton Orchard Singapore - Welcomes Year of the Horse with Luxurious Lunar New Year Offerings

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Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro ushers in the Year of the Horse with its signature Chūka Szechwan Ryori cuisine, presenting a celebratory line-up of curated festive offerings. Set menus are available for lunch from 9 February to 3 March 2026, and for dinner from 2 February to 3 March 2026. In addition, an expansive à la carte selection, vegetarian dishes, and a range of festive takeaway goodies will be available from 19 January to 3 March 2026. Seven dine-in set menus, priced from $168++ to $388++ per guest, cater to both intimate private gatherings and larger celebrations.

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Prosperity Madai Yu Sheng 3.5/5

We experienced the Triumphant Menu ($218++ per guest, minimum six guests), which opened with the Prosperity Madai Yu Sheng, featuring Japanese Madai (red sea bream) sourced from Kochi Prefecture. The fish was fresh and delicate, complemented by an in-house strawberry plum sauce that added a gentle fruity acidity without overpowering the dish.

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Foie Gras Chawanmushi with Crab Roe Soup 4.8/5

One of the highlights was the restaurant’s signature Foie Gras Chawanmushi with Crab Roe Soup. The steamed egg custard, made with Canadian foie gras and local chicken eggs, was exceptionally soft and silky. The subtle richness and slight funk of the foie gras lent depth to the custard, while the rich crab roe sauce, made from handpicked Alaskan king crab roe slow-cooked with carrot purée and aromatics, added a velvety textural boost.

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Wok-fried Prawn with Fresh Lily Bulb and Asparagus 4/5

The Wok-fried Prawn with Fresh Lily Bulb and Asparagus followed, delivering a pleasing contrast of textures with crisp vegetables and succulent prawns.

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Crispy Roasted Sakura Chicken 4.5/5

A clear crowd favourite was the Crispy Roasted Sakura Chicken with Fragrant Garlic. The skin was roasted to a light crisp, while the meat remained juicy and succulent, making it a seemingly simple yet satisfying dish.

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Whole Deep-fried Marble Goby 5/5

Visually impressive, the Whole Deep-fried Marble Goby with Yuzu Sauce tantalised the senses. The fish had firm flesh with a well-crisped exterior, and the umami-laced yuzu soy sauce brightened the flavours beautifully.

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Braised South African 4-head Abalone 4/5

The meal continued with Braised South African 4-head Abalone with Black Moss and Seasonal Vegetables in Oyster Sauce. The abalone had been braised for six hours in a mature chicken and pork knuckle stock, resulting in a tender texture. The full-bodied oyster sauce imparted a deep umami richness that complemented the abalone.

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Wok-fried Glutinous Rice with Foie Gras 3/5

From another menu, we also sampled the newly launched Wok-fried Glutinous Rice with Foie Gras, Chinese Sausage and Black Truffle, available as part of selected set menus and for takeaway at $75 nett. I found this rendition overly rich; a simpler version without both foie gras and truffle would have worked just as well for me.

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Dessert 4/5

Dessert was refreshing and light with the Chilled Szechwan Jelly with Seasonal Fruit, featuring Japanese persimmons handpicked by Chef Kentaro, mixed with gelatin and drizzled with Okinawa brown sugar syrup. Alongside it was the Crispy Duo-flavour Nian Gao Roll, which leaned slightly on the sweeter side but rounded off the meal on a festive note.

Dine-In Reservations: https://www.tablecheck.com/en/shisenhantensingapore/reserve/landing

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro
Hilton Singapore Orchard
Level 35
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Shang Palace @ Shangri-La Singapore - Unveils a Refreshed Cantonese Menu

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I am back at Shang Palace, Shangri-La Singapore, to experience its refreshed menu that redefines timeless Cantonese gastronomy through a contemporary lens. Guided by Executive Chef Daniel Cheung, the new offerings honour tradition while introducing refined techniques and elegant presentations.

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The meal begins with a delightful Amuse Bouche featuring sweet prawn paired with a zesty sauce. The bright acidity complements the prawn's natural sweetness beautifully, awakening the palate and setting the tone for what's to come.

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Trio of Dim Sum Items 4/5

We commence the dinner with a Trio of Dim Sum Items, each showcasing refined craftsmanship and thoughtful layering of flavours and textures. The Steamed Chicken Roll with Ham, Black Mushroom and Fried Fish Maw is comforting yet elegant, with tender chicken wrapped around savoury ham and earthy mushrooms, punctuated by the gentle chew of fish maw. The Traditional Deep-fried Hokkaido Scallop Dumpling with Supreme Broth delivers a delightful contrast: crisp on the outside, revealing a sweet, succulent scallop filling within. Rounding off the trio is the Steamed Crystal Dumpling with Black Truffle, Assorted Mushroom and Preserved Olive, where translucent skin encases an aromatic medley of mushrooms, lifted by the earthy perfume of black truffle and a subtle briny note from the preserved olive. Together, the trio offers a graceful introduction to Shang Palace's refreshed Cantonese repertoire.

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Double-Boiled Soup 4.5/5

Next is a hearty and nourishing Double-Boiled An Xin Chicken Broth with Fish Maw, Sea Conch and Honey Dew. Ingredients including sea conch, chicken, chicken feet, fish maw, honeydew, jade bamboo and ginger are double-boiled for over three hours, resulting in a rich, velvety broth. The addition of honeydew is particularly intriguing and uncommon in traditional double-boiled soups. It imparts a subtle melon sweetness at the finish, adding complexity without overpowering the broth's savoury depth.

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Baked Australia Pork Rib with Osmanthus Honey and Black Pepper Sauce 4.5/5

One of the highlights of the evening is the Baked Australia Pork Rib with Osmanthus Honey and Black Pepper Sauce. Rose wine is poured tableside before the ribs are flambéed, adding a touch of theatre. The pork ribs are exceptionally tender, falling off the bone with ease. The osmanthus honey lends a delicate floral fragrance, while the black pepper sauce delivers a bold, peppery kick. The sweet-and-spicy interplay is truly lip-smacking.

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Baked Assorted Diced Seafood and Sea Conch with Cream Sauce 4/5

This dish is a nostalgic nod to Hong Kong's 1980s culinary era, where Chinese and Western influences converged. Traditionally cooked with Portuguese sauce, Shang Palace adapts it using a creamy white sauce akin to béchamel. The Baked Assorted Diced Seafood and Sea Conch with Cream Sauce is topped with mozzarella cheese and baked until golden brown, resulting in a comforting, creamy dish with a satisfying crust.

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Braised Boneless Duck with Eight Treasures 4.5/5

The Braised Boneless Duck with Eight Treasures is served in a rich abalone sauce broth, alongside prawns, cuttlefish, pig kidney, chicken, bamboo shoots, fish maw, sea cucumber, and mushrooms. The duck is deep-fried before braising, a technique that tightens the skin, keeps it crisp, and removes any gaminess from the meat. The result is a luxurious, well-balanced dish showcasing both technique and tradition.

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Deep-fried Crab Claw with Shrimp Paste and Almond Flakes 4.5/5

The Deep-fried Japanese Snow Crab Claw, stuffed with shrimp paste and coated with almond flakes, offers excellent textural contrast. The succulence and sweetness of the prawn filling are enhanced by the nutty crunch of the almonds, making this a crowd-pleasing classic.

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Braised Assorted Vegetables with Preserved Beancurd in Claypot 4.5/5

Vegetable dishes shine just as brightly with the Braised Assorted Vegetables with Preserved Beancurd in Claypot. Featuring broccoli, Nai Bai, bamboo fungus, shiitake mushrooms, eggplant, snow peas, vermicelli and beancurd, everything is braised in a flavourful vegetable broth with preserved beancurd and vegetarian oyster sauce. The preserved beancurd sauce is the star, packed with umami and depth, while the vermicelli soaks up the delicious broth beautifully.

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Chilled Pandan Pudding Topped with Bird's Nest 4.2/5

Dessert is a refreshing Chilled Pandan Pudding topped with Indonesian Bird's Nest and edible gold foil. Made from fresh pandan juice, the pudding is silky smooth and fragrant. The addition of bird's nest lends a touch of luxury, ending the meal on a light yet indulgent note.

Shang Palace's refreshed menu is a confident showcase of classic Cantonese flavours reimagined with finesse. Chef Daniel Cheung strikes an admirable balance between tradition and modern expression, delivering dishes that are comforting, elegant and thoughtfully executed. A worthy revisit for both loyal patrons and newcomers alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shang Palace
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 6213 4473
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Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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 the Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 23 minutes.[Map]