Tong Le Private Dining @ OUE Tower - A Taste of Tóng Lè’s New Seasonal Creations

The only revolving restaurant in Singapore with breathtaking city views, Tong Le Private Dining continues to set the bar for elevated Chinese dining with the unveiling of its latest seasonal menus. Helmed by Senior Executive Chef To Kwok Kim (Chef Dicky), the refreshed offerings span across its Executive Lunch, themed menus and the indulgent Tong Le Experience Menu, alongside a comprehensive selection of à la carte and vegetarian options. Thoughtfully curated, the menus bring together modern flavours, innovative techniques and premium ingredients, reflecting a refined interpretation of contemporary Chinese culinary artistry.

Parma Ham, White Pepper, Marinated Lettuce Stem 4.2/5

We began with the Parma Ham, White Pepper, Marinated Lettuce Stem ($18), a visually striking appetiser that showcases precision in both plating and flavour pairing. The lettuce stem, cut into neat cubes, delivered a refreshing crunch with natural sweetness, while the delicate saltiness of the Parma ham provided a savoury counterpoint. A gentle sprinkle of white pepper tied the elements together, enhancing the overall profile without overpowering the dish.

Crispy Bean Curd Sheet Rolls 5/5

The Crispy Bean Curd Sheet Rolls ($18) followed, offering a satisfying textural contrast. Golden and crisp on the outside, the rolls encased a hearty filling of porcini mushrooms and mixed vegetables. Each bite revealed an earthy depth from the porcini, complemented by the vegetables’ natural sweetness and crunch, making it both comforting and flavourful.

Caramelised Barbecued Pork 4.2/5

A highlight from the barbecue selection was the Caramelised Barbecued Pork ($38). Executed with finesse, the cut struck a desirable balance between lean meat and a hint of fat, resulting in a tender yet structured bite. Served theatrically on a hot stone, the sauce was poured tableside, caramelising upon contact to form a lightly charred, glossy coating. Importantly, the glaze leaned towards a restrained sweetness, allowing the natural flavours of the pork to shine.

Double-boiled Fish Maw and Boneless Chicken in Jasmine Tea and Bamboo Fungus Consomme 4/5

For a lighter interlude, the Double-boiled Fish Maw and Boneless Chicken in Jasmine Tea and Bamboo Fungus Consomme offered a soothing clarity. The consomme was delicately perfumed with jasmine tea, lending a subtle floral aroma that elevated the clean, comforting broth. The fish maw and bamboo fungus added gentle textural contrast, making it both nourishing and refined.

Baked Western Australian Lobster 4.5/5

Chef Dicky’s expertise truly came through in the Baked Western Australian Lobster. The lobster was impeccably cooked, retaining a succulent, bouncy texture. Cloaked in a creamy mild cheddar cheese sauce, the dish leaned into a rich, indulgent profile, further layered with the earthy notes of morel mushrooms and the sweet-savoury nuances of Chinese sausage. This East-meets-West composition was luxurious yet thoughtfully balanced, delivering complexity in every mouthful.

48 Hours Slow-cooked Pork Belly in Aged’ Hua Diao’ 4.8/5

Equally memorable was the 48 Hours Slow-cooked Pork Belly in Aged’ Hua Diao’ ($20/pax). The pork belly was cooked to perfection, achieving a melt-in-the-mouth texture that spoke of patience and precision. The aged Hua Diao lent a deep, aromatic richness to the sauce, enhancing the overall depth of flavour. Accompanied by soft, fluffy mantou, it invited diners to savour every last drop of the luscious gravy.

Claypot Foie Gras, Fried Jasmine Rice, Saga-gyu, Black Pepper, Caramelised Soy Sauce 4/5

The Claypot Foie Gras, Fried Jasmine Rice, Saga-gyu, Black Pepper, and Caramelised Soy Sauce ($16/pax) delivered comfort with a touch of decadence. Fragrant and hearty, the dish combined the richness of foie gras and Saga-gyu with well-seasoned fried jasmine rice. The addition of crispy puffed rice introduced a delightful crunch, elevating both texture and enjoyment.

Creamy Strawberry, Lychee, Raspberry Crisp, Rose Cookie 4.2/5

Dessert came in the form of Creamy Strawberry, Lychee, Raspberry Crisp, Rose Cookie ($20/pax), elegantly presented in a cocktail glass. Light and refreshing, it resembled a delicate smoothie, with the sweetness of strawberry and lychee brightened by the tartness of raspberry. The rose cookie added a subtle floral finish, rounding off the meal on a gentle and uplifting note.

Tong Le Private Dining’s latest seasonal offerings demonstrate a confident interplay between tradition and innovation, in which classic Chinese flavours are reinterpreted with finesse and creativity. From refined soups to indulgent mains and thoughtful desserts, the experience reflects Chef Dicky’s commitment to delivering a cohesive and elevated dining journey.


Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tong Le Private Dining
OUE Tower
Level 10
60 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049322
Tel: +65 6634 3233
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

The Courtyard @ The Fullerton Hotel Singapore - An Exclusive Afternoon Tea Collaboration with Ami Patisserie

From 10 October to 30 November 2025, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore presents Aki 秋, an exclusive afternoon tea collaboration at The Courtyard with award-winning Chef Makoto Arami, La Liste's Pastry Talent of the Year 2025.

Afternoon Tea 4.8/5

Chef Makoto, who helms AMI Patisserie at Scotts Road, is celebrated for his masterful creations that harmoniously blend refined flavours, delicate textures, and exceptional craftsmanship. This afternoon tea experience also captures the tranquil beauty of the Japanese autumn, a season evocative of a graceful dance of change sweeping across the landscape.

Yuzu Blossom Mocktail

To begin, guests are welcomed with a Yuzu Blossom Mocktail, a blend of TWG Sakura! Sakura! Tea, yuzu juice, honey and butterfly pea flower tea, made using butterfly pea flowers freshly harvested from The Fullerton Farm. The drink's purple and yellow hues make it so pretty! Guests can also select a serving of TWG tea or Bacha coffee to accompany their food.

Savouries plate

Afternoon tea is served on a classic three-tiered stand, with a menu of five savouries, five sweets, and a plated dessert. As expected of an award-winning pastry chef, the afternoon tea set is pastry-forward, showcasing creative techniques and imaginative flavour combinations.

Sansho Miso Yaki Nasu Madeleine

We began with a delightful bite-sized treat, the Sansho Miso Yaki Nasu Madeleine, where smoky grilled eggplant meets a touch of parmesan.

Burrata Cheese and Parma Ham Sando

The Burrata Cheese and Parma Ham Sando is a spin-off of the memorable Burrata Cheese & Parma Ham Croissant that Chef Makoto also serves at AMI Patisserie. It's light yet indulgent, and creamy burrata paired with savoury ham is always a great combination.

Smoked Salmon Tarte

Tomato Tartelette

With the Smoked Salmon Tarte, what I appreciated most was the uniquely crafted tarte pastry, beautifully layered and flaky, adding a light, buttery contrast to the rich smoked salmon and capers topping. Meanwhile, the Tomato Tartelette showcases ripe tomatoes atop a crisp, savoury and golden base.

AMI Signature Caviar Choux (Nomad Caviar)

Last but certainly not least, the AMI Signature Caviar Choux is filled with creamy egg mayo and crowned with Nomad Caviar. Definitely one of my favourite bites of the afternoon!

Sweets Plate

Moving on to the sweets, some of these creations feel familiar, as Chef Makoto's signature dishes are featured on this menu. I was thrilled to taste them again, and they were as delicious as I remembered!

Black Forest Choux

My favourite amongst the sweets was the Black Forest Choux, filled with 70% chocolate ganache, kirsch cream, and a tart sour cherry compote. I love the choux's airy, light yet satisfyingly crisp exterior, as well as the rich chocolate component.

Strawberry Pistachio Tarte

Mont Blanc

The Strawberry Pistachio Tarte is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds, topped with vibrant, sweet strawberries. Meanwhile, the Mont Blanc is an autumn essential, rich, creamy, and perfectly seasonal. For both of these tartes, there is an unexpected touch, a little cake base beneath, adding an extra layer of texture.

Caramel Banana Mousse

The Caramel Banana Mousse has a sweet and silky texture, with smooth mousse layered over a crisp base. Light yet indulgent, it offers a gentle sweetness that's perfectly balanced, with subtle caramel notes enhancing the natural richness of the banana.

Kinako and Matcha Tropézienne with Yuzu Jam

To my surprise, this afternoon tea set did not include scones. Instead, it features a Kinako and Matcha Tropézienne with Yuzu Jam. The kinako and matcha cream were delicious, and the yuzu jam added a bright, citrusy note to the bread. However, I found the bread too thick to finish entirely.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango and Passion Fruit Sauce

Served in an elegant glass, the Mango Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango and Passion Fruit Sauce is reminiscent of summer's brightness more than autumn's, but it stands out as one of the most refined and elegant interpretations of mango sticky rice I've ever tasted.

Overall, fans of Chef Makoto will not be disappointed. The pastry craftsmanship is consistently superb, promising a most wonderful tea time experience, enjoyed within the luxurious surroundings of The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, one of the city's most iconic heritage landmarks.

To continue enjoying Chef Makoto's treats at home, two of his best-selling pastry creations —the Caramel Passion Banana Mousse Cake and the Apple Tatin Tarte —will also be available for takeaway from The Fullerton Cake Boutique, adjacent to The Courtyard.

The Courtyard, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
10 October to 30 November 2025
S$68++ per adult, S$34++ per child (six to 11 years old)
inclusive of a Yuzu Blossom mocktail and a serving of TWG Tea or Bacha Coffee beverage

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Courtyard
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
1 Fullerton Square
Singapore 049178
Tel: +65 68778911
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Afternoon Tea Mon-Thu: 230pm - 530pm
Fri-Sun, PH: 12pm - 230pm, 330pm - 6pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT Station. Take Exit H. Turn right and walk towards the river. At the river, turn right again and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

VUE @ OUE Bayfront - New Summer Menu Featuring 2GR Australian Full-Blood Wagyu

Nestled atop OUE Bayfront, VUE continues to impress with its scenic views and elegant French-Asian cuisine. I recently returned to experience their newly launched Summer Menu, spotlighting the exceptional 2GR Australian Full-Blood Wagyu. We had the 4-course prix fixe menu priced at $168++, with optional upgrades available throughout the meal.

Our evening began with warm, house-baked bread served alongside olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar, a simple yet comforting start that set the tone for the meal to come.

2GR Beef Carpaccio (add $12) 4.8/5

I couldn’t resist starting with the 2GR Beef Carpaccio, and it was every bit as indulgent as expected. Delicate slices of richly marbled wagyu melted in the mouth, enhanced with earthy Manjimup truffle, creamy stracciatella, and generous shavings of parmigiana. A dish that lets the premium quality of the beef shine through with finesse.

Heirloom Tomatoes 4.5/5

For a lighter option, my dining companion selected the Heirloom Tomatoes. Naturally sweet and juicy, the tomatoes were complemented beautifully by smoked burrata, tonburi (a Japanese plant seed often called "land caviar"), black olives, and a refreshing mozzarella sorbet that added an unexpected but delightful brightness.

Premium Risotto (add $48) 4.2/5

I opted for the Premium Risotto, a decadent creation that combined tender 2GR beef tongue with Perigord foie gras and a luxurious topping of Oscietra caviar. Each bite was rich, creamy, and intensely flavourful, showcasing an indulgent balance of textures and umami.

Signature Uni Risotto (add $12) 4.5/5

My companion chose the Signature Uni Risotto, which substituted traditional risotto with Japanese multigrain rice, offering a nuttier, more textured mouthfeel. The dish, featuring Hokkaido sea urchin, uni foam, and parmigiano, delivered a briny, oceanic freshness, satisfying yet delicate.

2GR Beef Trio 4.2/5

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the 2GR Beef Trio, an expertly grilled plate featuring three cuts: striploin, oyster blade, and beef cheek. Each showcased a different facet of the wagyu's richness and tenderness, offering variety in both flavour and texture. It is a must-order for beef lovers.

Spanish Lubina 4.2/5

For something different, we tried the Spanish Lubina (sea bass). The fish is dry-aged to deepen its natural flavours and coated with Dukkah spices for a nutty, aromatic crust. Finished with a bright tomato fondue, the dish was clean, elegant, and full of Mediterranean flair.

Strawberry Osmanthus 4.5/5

To end the meal on a refreshing note, the Strawberry Osmanthus featured layers of genoise sponge, rhubarb marmalade, and a light yoghurt sorbet. Delicately floral and not overly sweet, it was the perfect palate cleanser.

Pistachio Apricot 4.5/5

For a richer finish, the Pistachio Apricot dessert paired Sicilian pistachio ice cream with a tangy apricot compote, all topped with crispy brown butter kataifi. It was a harmonious blend of creamy, nutty, and tart.

As expected in a fine dining experience, we concluded with a lovely selection of petit fours.
For those looking to enjoy VUE at a more accessible price point, take advantage of their Sunset Dinner (5:30pm–7:30pm) or Late Night Dinner (9:30pm onwards) promotions. The 3-course menu is priced at $88 (U.P. $128), and the 4-course at $128 (U.P. $168), offering excellent value for the experience and quality on offer.

VUE’s Summer Menu is a masterclass in showcasing top-quality ingredients, particularly the 2GR Australian Full-Blood Wagyu—elevated with luxurious accompaniments and precise execution. Whether you're here for the views, the beef, or both, this is a culinary experience that delivers from start to finish.

Note: This is an invited tasting


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 1am
Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 2am
Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Xiao Yu Hao (小鱼号) @ Collyer Quay Centre - China’s Largest Suan Cai Yu Chain Opens First Outlet in Singapore, Serving Convenient Single-Portion Bowls

Newly launched at Collyer Quay, Xiao Yu Hao (小鱼号) is one of China's largest Suan Cai Yu (酸菜鱼) brands, with over 800 outlets since its debut in 2019. It marks their first foray into Singapore, bringing their signature single-portion pickled fish bowls to local diners, starting at an affordable $9.90.

Diners can choose from 5 distinctive broths - Golden Sauerkraut Broth, Spicy Lemon Broth, Tomato Vit C Broth, Miao Style Spicy Sour Broth and Sichuan Spicy Broth, as well as 3 proteins - Black Fish (Snakehead), White Fish (Dory) and Marbled Beef. For the indecisive, there's also a half-half option combining Black Fish and Marbled Beef.

Each speciality bowl comes with a medley of toppings, including tofu puffs, sweet potato vermicelli, wood ear mushrooms, and enoki mushrooms. Alternatively, options for add-ons are also available, such as Cheese Tofu ($2.50) and Lobster Balls ($2.50)

White Fish in Spicy Lemon Broth 4/5

Among the three broths we sampled, the Spicy Lemon Broth with White Fish ($10.80) stood out. Zesty with a gentle heat, this version was refreshing and kept it appetising to enjoy.

Black Fish in Miao Style Red Sour Broth 3.8/5

While the Black Fish in Miao Style Red Sour Broth ($14.20) is one of its popular broths in China, we found the flavours more muted than we expected. We also learnt that the broth is naturally fermented without any preservatives.

Sauerkraut Black Fish Five Grain Rice Noodles in Golden Broth 4/5

The Sauerkraut Black Fish Five Grain Rice Noodles in Golden Broth ($12.80) features a broth brewed with 300-day-aged pickled mustard greens. Don't be mistaken by its pale appearance. The broth delivered a tangy heat that grew with each spoonful. The portion of noodles was huge.

Taro Roll 2.8/5

We also sampled the Taro Roll ($5.80) as a side. While crispy on the outside, the filling tasted overly sweet and slightly artificial, to our liking.

Xiao Yu Hao brings something unique to Singapore’s Suan Cai Yu scene, especially for solo diners seeking variety.

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.


Xiao Yu Hao (小鱼号)
Collyer Quay Centre
#01-10
16 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049318
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 8pm
Sat: 11am - 4pm
(Closed on Sun and PH)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Altro Zafferano @ Ocean Financial Centre - A Bright and Bold Refreshed Menu in Celebration of Southern Italian Flavours

Altro Zafferano, perched atop Ocean Financial Centre, returns with a refreshed dining concept centred on everyday social dining. Known for its refined Italian cuisine, the restaurant now embraces a more vibrant and approachable experience, bringing the warmth, boldness, and sun-soaked flavours of Southern Italy to the heart of Singapore's CBD. With a bright Mediterranean spirit and a reimagined menu, Altro Zafferano continues to impress with culinary finesse and soulful, honest cooking.

Pomodoro e Basilico 4/5

We started with the Pomodoro e Basilico ($15), a comforting focaccia that embodies the rustic charm of Italy. Made in-house with sourdough and baked until golden, the base is topped with sweet Neapolitan tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The tomatoes are the star. They are plump, juicy, and bursting with natural sweetness, elevating this humble starter with their vibrant, sun-ripened flavour.

Insalata di Polpo e Patate 4.2/5

The Insalata di Polpo e Patate ($28) showcases a tender Mediterranean octopus paired with baby potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a medley of herbs like parsley, chervil, and chives. The light gremolata dressing lifts the dish with citrusy brightness and herbal freshness, tying all the components together into a well-balanced appetiser that awakens the palate.

Carpaccio di Manzo, Pecorino e Senape 4.2/5

The Carpaccio di Manzo ($26) features Australian grain-fed beef sliced and rolled with rocket leaves, pecorino cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Topped with finely chopped shallots and dressed in a whole grain mustard vinaigrette, each bite is a complex interplay of peppery greens, savoury cheese, tangy balsamic, and tender beef. It is a refined starter with great textural contrast and depth.

Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese 4.5/5

A standout from the pasta section, the Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese ($36) is rich, hearty, and comforting. The artisanal pasta from Southern Italy is coated in a slow-cooked Genovese ragu made from onions and Australian Wagyu beef, simmered in red wine for six hours. Finished with parmesan, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary, this dish delivers soul-soothing depth and perfect al dente texture.

Rigatoni alla Gricia 4/5

Prepared tableside for a bit of flair, the Rigatoni alla Gricia ($36 per pax) is a decadent experience. The pasta is tossed inside a pecorino cheese wheel, soaking up all the rich, salty goodness, then topped with crispy guanciale and a bold pepper blend of Sichuan and black pepper. A luxurious treat especially for cheese lovers, balanced by the smoky-savoury punch of guanciale.

Tagliata di Manzo, Rucola e Balsamico 4.2/5

For mains, the Tagliata di Manzo ($68) is a masterclass in simplicity done right. The Black Angus grain-fed striploin is grilled over a Josper to seal in juices and flavour, seasoned with rosemary oil, thyme, and fennel seeds, and finished with a drizzle of Lambrusco balsamico. Served alongside fresh Italian rocket and cherry tomatoes, the dish is full-bodied, tender, and focused entirely on letting the quality of the beef shine.

Branzino all'Acqua Pazza 4.5/5

The Branzino all’Acqua Pazza ($58) was another highlight. The beautifully deboned Sardinian seabass, reassembled with the head and tail intact and baked in a delicate broth of vegetable stock, tomatoes, white wine, olives, and parsley. Finished with extra virgin olive oil and Amalfi lemon, the fish is moist and flaky, its flavours lifted by the bright citrus and briny broth. Elegant and satisfying.

Tiramisu 4.5/5

We ended on a high note with the Tiramisu ($24). This refined rendition layers mascarpone cream with gluten-free Savoiardi biscuits, soaked in espresso, orange peel, and a touch of Cointreau, then dusted with cocoa. The dessert is smooth and light, offering just the right balance of bitterness and sweetness, a sophisticated and well-balanced end to the meal.

With its reimagined focus on approachable yet elevated Southern Italian cuisine, Altro Zafferano offers a vibrant dining experience that blends tradition with creativity. Whether you’re here for a business lunch, romantic dinner, or a weekend indulgence, the restaurant’s new menu invites you to savour Italy’s bold flavours in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Altro Zafferano
Ocean Financial Centre
Level 43
10 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049315
Tel: +65 65091488
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm)
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place. Take Exit C. Walk to Ocean Financial Centre which is on the left. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]