Jalan Wong Ah Fook Charcoal Curry Fish Head @ Tampines Street 64 - My Favourite JB-Style Charcoal Curry Fish Head is in the East

With curry fish head spots popping up all over the island, it begs the question — which ones are truly worth your time (and calories)? For me, Jalan Wong Ah Fook Charcoal Curry Fish Head in Tampines is a clear standout at the moment. What sets it apart is how closely it mirrors that iconic Johor-style curry fish head many Singaporeans willingly travel across the Causeway for. In fact, the recipe here is inspired by that very same famous establishment in Johor Bahru, resulting in a rendition that feels both nostalgic and satisfying, with slight tweaks to better suit local palates.

Charcoal Curry Fish Head 4.5/5

The Charcoal Curry Fish Head ($26/$32) is undeniably the star of the show and a must-order. Prepared over charcoal, the curry develops a gentle smokiness that adds an extra layer of complexity to its already robust profile. The gravy is thick, creamy, and deeply spiced — rich without being cloying — coating every element in the pot with its full-bodied intensity.

The fish itself is fresh, with moist and tender flesh that holds up well against the bold curry. Accompanying the fish are classic additions like long beans, lady’s fingers, and brinjals, all of which absorb the curry beautifully. A standout component is the generously sized deep-fried beancurd skin, which soaks up the gravy like a sponge while offering a contrasting texture that makes each bite more satisfying. Altogether, it’s a dish that feels indulgent, comforting, and remarkably close to its Johor counterpart.

3-Cup Chicken 4.2/5

Beyond their signature, the kitchen also turns out a commendable selection of zichar dishes. The 3-Cup Chicken ($10) impresses with its aromatic profile — fragrant from Chinese wine, soy sauce, and generous handfuls of basil leaves. The sauce is rich and slightly caramelised, clinging well to the tender chicken pieces, which are thoroughly infused with flavour. It’s a comforting, well-executed classic that complements the heavier curry dish nicely.

Pig Trotter Vinegar 4.2/5

The Pig Trotter Vinegar ($15) is another highlight and one I would gladly return for. The trotters are stewed until fork-tender, with a luscious, gelatinous skin that retains a pleasant bounce. Each bite is deeply infused with the sharp, gingery tang of black vinegar, striking a balanced interplay between savoury richness and appetising acidity. It’s a dish that leans towards traditional flavours and delivers them confidently.

Fried Shrimp Cake 4/5

A surprising favourite at the table was the Fried Shrimp Cake ($10). Deep-fried to a beautiful golden brown, it boasts a crisp exterior that gives way to a slightly soft, doughy interior. The prawn topping adds an extra layer of crunch and natural sweetness, making it incredibly addictive — the kind of dish you keep reaching for without realising.

Sambal Stingray 3/5

The Sambal Stingray ($18), however, was less impressive. While the stingray itself was reasonably well-cooked, the sambal lacked the depth and punch expected of a good sambal chilli — missing that robust, piquant kick that elevates the dish. That said, I appreciated the inclusion of chinchalok on the side, which added a touch of authenticity and extra flavour dimension.

Jalan Wong Ah Fook Charcoal Curry Fish Head delivers a compelling dining experience, especially for those craving that distinctive Johor-style curry fish head without the need to cross the border. The charcoal-cooked curry stands out with its depth, richness, and subtle smokiness, while the supporting zichar dishes round out the meal with satisfying variety. While not every dish hits the mark, the strengths here — particularly the signature curry fish head and pig trotter vinegar — are strong enough to warrant repeat visits. For now, it comfortably ranks as one of the more noteworthy curry fish head spots in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jalan Wong Ah Fook Charcoal Curry Fish Head
Tam Chiak Kopitiam
Blk 666 Tampines Street 64
Singapore 520666
Tel: +65 89395992
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Nearest MRT:

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tampines MRT station. Take Exit A, D or G. Walk to Tampines Bus Interchange. Take bus number 296 or 490. Alight 7 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 22 minutes. [Map]

Shu Da Xia (蜀大侠) @ Tampines 1 - China's Top 10 Hotpot Restaurants Opens in Singapore

Singapore's hotpot scene just got a fiery upgrade with the arrival of Shu Da Xia (蜀大侠), a renowned Sichuan hotpot chain ranked among China's Top 10 Hotpot Restaurants. With over 600 outlets and more than a billion visits worldwide, this powerhouse of flavour has landed at Tampines 1, bringing its signature bold and authentic tastes to our shores.

Shu Da Xia's condiments station is well-stocked with everything you need to complement your hotpot experience, including a side dish, a rotating fruit selection, and a refreshing Ice Jelly Dessert.

We opted for the Triple Pot ($18), choosing from a selection of six soup bases: Mala Beef Tallow, Angelica Pork Bone, and Matsutake Chicken Soup. A standout detail is their dedication to maintaining the integrity of each soup - when refilling, they don't just dilute with a base broth but ensure that every soup continues to simmer with its own distinct ingredients. Other available soup bases include Pickled Cabbage, Tomato, and Mushroom. If you prefer a smaller selection, the hotpot is also available in Single Pot at $22 and Yuan Yang (Dual Pot) at $20.

Marinated Pork Ribs

Mala Beef

Mala Chicken Gizzards

For those who love the numbing heat of Sichuan cuisine, the Marinated Pork Ribs ($8/half), Mala Beef ($8/half), and Mala Chicken Gizzards ($5.50/half) are a must-try. These meats soak up the flavours of the Mala Beef Tallow soup beautifully, but be prepared for the potent cumin notes - it can be intense if you're not a fan. Over time, the soup also becomes richly infused with cumin and chilli, which adds a powerful kick but may be overwhelming for some.

Marble Patterned Beef Slice

We tried the Marble Patterned Beef Slice ($18/half) and Gui Fei Beef ($7.50/half) for a milder option. Thinly sliced and tender, these cuts were perfect in the non-spicy broths, offering a delicate balance to the robust flavours of the meal.

Tai Chi Double Paste

One of our favourite dishes was the Tai Chi Double Paste ($15/full), a handcrafted seafood delight made with black tiger prawn and squid, topped with fish roe for a fun and crunchy texture.

Vegetable Platter

Kung Fu Celtuce

For a fresh contrast, we enjoyed the Vegetable Platter ($9.50/half), which includes lettuce, romaine lettuce, napa cabbage, corn, and tomato. A highlight was the Kung Fu Celtuce ($3.50/half), delicately sliced for the perfect bite. Be sure not to overcook it to retain its signature crunch.

Ice Jelly Dessert

We wrapped up our meal with the Ice Jelly Dessert, available at the condiments station. You can customize it with Osmanthus Brown Sugar, Hawthorn Flakes, and Raisins. While the dessert was refreshing, it would be even better served colder and with more topping options.

Shu Da Xia delivers not just on taste but also on atmosphere. The bright yet cosy space is inviting, with ample seating, making it an excellent spot for families and groups. Whether you're a spice enthusiast or just a lover of rich, flavourful broths, this hotpot experience is one to savour. If you're looking for an authentic Sichuan hotpot adventure, Shu Da Xia is definitely worth a visit.

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


Shu Da Xia (蜀大侠)
Tampines 1
10 Tampines Central 1
#03-16A
Singapore 529536
Tel: +65 8013 9188
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Nearest MRT: Tampines (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily 11am - 10pm

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

2) Alihgt at Tampines MRT station (DT Line). Take Exit D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Spinelli Coffee @ Tampines Hub - Very First Outlet In The Heartland

Spinelli Coffee has opened its very first suburban outlet in the heartland at Tampines Hub. The newest outlet is located near the library side, directly opposite NTUC income. It has both air conditioned and outdoor sitting area.

Ice Mocha, Iced Latte 4/5

Matcha T-Twist 4/5

The weather has been extremely hot lately, and what better way to cold down at the cafe with a cold drink. A few recommend choices would be the Ice Mocha, Ice Latte and Iced Matcha T-Twist. An interesting twist is the matcha t-twist, which is a blend of matcha powder with cranberries. The combination of bitterness and sourness surprisingly works harmoniously together.

Quinoa Salad Bowl 3.5/5

For the health conscious eater. there is a number of salad bowls at Spinelli Coffee. One of these is the Quinoa Salad Bowl ($9.80). The bowl comes filled with fresh crunchy greens, sweet tomatoes and quinoa patties. I love the roasted sesame sauce that is drizzled on top, boosting a flavourful finishing.

Bagel Tomate Olive 3.8/5

I am not a bagel person as I dislike the dense texture of the dough. However the Bagel Tomate Olive ($4.50) turns out pretty good. The open-faced bagel topped with cheesy pizza toppings is soft and fluffy.

Beef Lasagna 3/5

As for the Beef Lasagna ($10.80), I didn't quite enjoy it. While the flavours from the cheese and beef are spot on, I felt that the pasta sheets are too soft, without texture. This doesn't help with the layer of gooey stretchy cheese on top. it just made the whole dish collapsed into a pool of softness.

Devil's Chocolate Cake 4.2/5, Carrot Cake 2.8/5, Strawberry Shortcake 3.8/5

If you are at Spinelli Coffee just to chill, you may want to order some cakes to go along with your drinks. They have a number of cakes such as the Strawberry Shortcake ($6.80), Carrot Cake and Devil's Chocolate Cake ($5.20). If you like something light, then I would recommend the strawberry shortcake, if not my personal favourite the the rich Devil's Chocolate Cake.

Cold Brew Ice Cream 3.8/5

Another first at Spinelli Coffee besides opening its first suburban outlet is the introduction of their freshly churned Cold Brew Ice Cream ($4.20). The ice cream is infused with the rich coffee aroma on top of its smooth creamy swirls.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Spinelli Coffee
Our Tampines Hub
1 Tampines Walk
#01-K8
Singapore 528523
Facebook
Website
Nearest: Tampines (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 8am - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 8am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Tampines MRT station (DT Line). Take Exit F. Walk down Tampines Central 2 road to Tampines Ave 5. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tampines MRT station (EW Line). Take Exit C. Walk down Tampines Central road to Tampines Central 6 road. Walk to NTUC Income Tampines Junction. Walk to traffic junction of Tampines Ave 5 and Tampines Ave 4. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Two Hana @ Century Square - Bringing Two Cultures, Korean And Western Together

There are quite a number of restaurants and eateries to check out at the newly re-opened Century Square mall. One of these restaurants and eateries is Two Hana which is located near the mall's taxi stand. It is a Korea meets West cafe concept offering a eclectic menu featuring all-day dining, light bites, hearty mains, alluring dessert, refreshing drinks and specialty coffee from All Press.

Two Hana Drumlets 3.5/5

Since it is a Korean inspired cafe, then we can do without the Korean fried chicken. The Two Hana Drumlets ($9) comes in 2 flavours - Honey Butter and Spicy Yangnyeom. It is a sweet and spicy combination with deep fried crispy skin. The honey butter sauce drumlets are topped with popcorn and almond while the spicy yangnyeom comes with sesame seeds.

Korean Cauliflower Fritters 4/5

Kimchi Mac & Cheese Bites 3.5/5

For some light bites on the menu, there are the Korean Cauliflower Fritters ($8) and Kimchi Mac & Cheese Bites ($9). The cauliflower is coated in a light crispy tempura batter and glazed in a sweet and spicy sauce. Up a notch with the kimchi mac & cheese whereby the cheesy filling is spiced up with kimchi chucks enveloped by crispy breadcrumbs.

Bulgogi Sidewinders 3.5/5

If you find having fries alone is rather boring, then the Bulgogi Sidewinders ($9) will be a nice change with its abundance of toppings such as beef bulgogi, creamy bulgogi sauce, kimchi bits, onions and parmeson cheese. It may sounds and looks messy but the combination actually comes together quite well.

Korean Slaw & Rocket Salad 3/5

If you want something light and healthy, there is the Korean Slaw & Rocket Salad ($9). The green consists of an assortment of rockets, cabbage and red cabbage. It is topped with pear, parmesan, mandarin orange, citron jam, yogurt and raisins. I enjoyed how the fruits and jam lend a citrus touch to the earthy greens.

Kimchi Bibimwrap 3/5

A staple Korean dish is the bibimap which is usually served in a bowl. How about the Kimchi Bibimwarp ($12), bibimap in a wrap? The wrap is stuffed with kimgaru rice, spinach, namul, shiitake mushrooms, fried garlic, egg, lettuce, cabbage, toasted sesame dressing and fried garlic. This is a meal on its own. You can also opt not to have rice in the wrap.

Striploin Bap 4/5

Rice bowl has been one the latest food trends in Singapore. Jumping on the bandwagon is the Striploin Bap ($13), its Korean interpretation of the rice bowl. Beautifully seared striploin slices, together with servings of kimchi, spinach, beansprout namul, caramelised onions and poached egg rest on top of the kimgarou rice. In fact, I find the bowl a bit small for the generous servings.

Crisp-Battered Pacific Cod 3/5

The Crisp-Battered Pacific Cod ($14) is served on a bed of doenjang mashed potatoes and comes with a choice of kimchi veloute or honey soy mayonnaise sauce. Unfortunately the highlight of the dish is the doenjang mashed potatoes, made from 60% potatoes, 40% butter and doenjang sauce. The bland tasting pacific cod is overshadowed by the creamy mashed potatoes with chunky bites.

Korean Seafood Cioppino 4.5/5

The dining group's favourite has to be the Korean Seafood Cioppino ($12), brimming with a medley of mussels, clams, prawns, mushroom and carrots stewed in tomatoes cream base. Diners can have a choice of tofu or soft rolls to go with the rich and creamy soup. It's like have a bowl of lobster bisque.

Gochujang Braised Lamb Shank 3.8/5

I thought the Gochujang Braised Lamb Shank ($24) is rather special. Unlike the usual, it is braised in a gochujang tomato sauce. While the braised sauce was delish, I was lacked down by the texture of the lamb shank. I was expecting it to be more tender. It seems that the lamb shank needs more hours in the pot.

Apple Caramel Waffles with Doenjang Caramel Ice Cream 3.5/5

As for dessert, I tried both the Apple Caramel Waffles with Doenjang Caramel Ice Cream ($9) and Strawberry Waffles with Honey Citron Ice Cream ($9). The waffles are crispy and dense. The addition of fruits help to cut those density with the yummy ice cream providing the home run.

Strawberry Waffles with Honey Citron Ice Cream 3.5/5

Overall, I feel that Two Hana serves some interesting Korean meets Western dishes but some are not at that level yet. There is potential in the dishes but probably needed more refinement to reach to excellent. Putting the food aside, the cafe serves great coffee using beans from All Press. So don't forget to get your caffeine fix whenever you drop by the cafe.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Two Hana
Century Square
2 Tampines Central 5
#01-21
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 62604339
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Tampines (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tampines MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn left and walk to traffic light junction. Cross the road and walk down Tampines Central 5. Walk to Century Square. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Ichiban Boshi @ Century Square - Enjoy Kyushu Cuisine With A Kyushu Ryori Specialty Menu

Located in southwestern Japan, Kyushu is famous for its long list of delicious dishes, hot springs, and is also home to Japan’s most active volcano, Mount Aso. Look forward to savouring over 20 specially curated iconic dishes, as Ichiban Boshi unveils a Kysuhu Ryori specialty menu, exclusively available at their newest outlet at Century Square.

Tori Mizutaki 3.8/5

The first dish we had was the Tori Mizutaki ($15.90) which is a chicken based hotpot dish popular in Fukuoka inspired by the Western consommé and Chinese cuisine. Filled with chicken, assorted mushrooms and fresh vegetables in flavourful chicken broth, a unique way of eating is to push the minced chicken from the bamboo poles into the broth for cooking. Pour in the side of Japanese citrus vinegar for that flavour oomph.

Jigokudai Udon 4/5

Another of our favourite is the Jigokudai Udon ($14.90) which is a warm dipping style udon served with kurobuta black pork, poached egg, shimeji mushrooms and assorted vegetables. Mixing in the side of bonito flakes, sesame seeds and citrus pepper paste adds a subtle salty and citursy flavouring to the udon noodles.

Mentai Hakata Nabe Gozen 3.8/5

The Mentai Hakata Nabe Gozen ($26.90) features a bounty of ingredients famous in Kyushu such as the mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and kurobuta in a delightful chicken broth served with silver-stripe round herring and Japanese sweet potato in a Hakata-style hotpot. The set also comes with sides of tempura, assorted sashimi, chawanmushi, rice and fruits for a fulfilling meal.

Aburi Shime Saba 3.5/5

For sides, we had the Aburi Shime Saba ($8.90) which features thin slices of seared mackerel seasoned with Japanese citrus vinegar, spring onion, sesame seeds, grated ginger and citrus pepper paste. While the mackerel is full-flavoured and has a firm texture, we find it a tad salty.

Daigakuimo Ice 4.2/5

We had the Daigakuimo Ice ($6.90) as a sweet finale to the meal. It comes in thick strips of fried Japanese sweet potato coated with brown sugar, sprinkled with black sesame seeds, and a scoop of creamy rich vanilla ice cream. The sweet potato strips have an addictive soft texture and the brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness to the dessert which complemented the ice cream well without being too overly sweet.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ichiban Boshi
Century Square
#02-17/18/29
2 Tampines Central 5
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 62601273
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Tampines (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tampines MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn left and walk to traffic light junction. Cross the road and walk down Tampines Central 5. Walk to Century Square. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]