Showing posts with label .Area: Tanjong Pagar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Area: Tanjong Pagar. Show all posts

Monday, February 17, 2025

Kko Kko Na Ra @ Hansik Dining Collective (Tanjong Pagar) - OG Korean Restaurant Celebrates 17th Anniversary with Special Gourmet Trail

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Korean food enthusiasts will undoubtedly recognise Kko Kko Na Ra, one of Singapore’s pioneering Korean restaurants that helped popularise Korean fried chicken and late-night dining. This February marks its 17th Anniversary.

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Now located on Level 2 of Hansik Dining Collective, Kko Kko Na Ra is part of a unique Korean dining hub featuring six distinct restaurants and a bar within a two-storey shophouse. The other brands include ChungSa ChoRong, Hanyang Bulgogi, Gogijip, Halmae Gukbap, and My Patio.

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Hansik Dining Collective is offering 17% off signature dishes across all outlets until 31 March 2025 to celebrate this milestone.

Another highlight is the HDC Air Boarding Pass, a curated gourmet trail available for $117 (U.P. $156) or $217 (U.P. $266). Perfect as a gift, the pass lets diners enjoy a signature dish at each restaurant and a complimentary Polaroid photo. It's available for purchase until 28 February 2025 and is valid for three months.

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Korean meals are incomplete without banchan, and we enjoyed the fresh kimchi here, which is made with apples and pears for a subtle sweetness.

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Jipyeong Makgeolli

Our trail experience started with a bottle of Jipyeong Makgeolli ($30) from My Patio. This preservative-free Korean rice wine had a smooth, lightly sweet flavour.

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Cheese Kimchi Pancake 4.2/5

From ChungSa ChoRong, we tried the Cheese Kimchi Pancake ($25), a must-try for cheese lovers. The crispy pancake was generously packed with kimchi and topped with a gooey, stretchy layer of melted cheese.

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Combo Chicken 4/5

Kko Kko Na Ra's Combo Chicken ($35 for 9 pieces) featured a mix of Original, Garlic Soy, and Yang Nyum flavours. While the batter was satisfyingly crispy, we had hoped for juicier meat.

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Siraegi Gukbap 4.5/5

We redeemed a Siraegi Gukbap ($25) from Halmae Gukbap to round off our meal. This comforting dried radish greens soup, served with rice, is exclusive to this restaurant in Singapore and uses imported radish greens from Korea. This comforting and flavourful number was also my favourite of the night, carrying just the right level of heat.

With four dishes redeemed from our HDC Air Boarding Pass, we're excited to return and try the rest.

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.


Kko Kko Na Ra
33 Tras Street
#02-01
Singapore 078973
Tel: +65 6225 9282
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar MRT (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 1am

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

CHEFLAM's Sichuan Cuisine (兰堂川菜) @ Guoco Tower - A Fiery New Arrival Helmed by Master of Sichuan Cuisine

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With great excitement, CHEFLAM's Sichuan Cuisine (兰堂川菜) has finally opened its doors at Guoco Tower, Tanjong Pagar. The restaurant is helmed by Chef Lam Shan, a renowned master of Sichuan Dongpo cuisine, often referred to as the "Master of Sichuan Cuisine." Known for his exceptional skills and numerous culinary accolades, Chef Lam brings an authentic and elevated Sichuan dining experience to Singapore.

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Shadow Lotus Root Slices 4.2/5

We began our Sichuan feast with the Shadow Lotus Root Slices ($12.90), an irresistibly crispy and addictive snack. The thinly sliced lotus root is expertly fried to a golden crisp, offering a light, airy crunch that makes it a perfect starter.

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Chengdu Cold Noodle with Shredded Chicken 4/5

Next, we tried the Chengdu Cold Noodle with Shredded Chicken ($9.90), a refreshing and flavourful dish. The springy wheat noodles are coated in a savoury, garlicky, and gingery sauce, delivering an aromatic kick. The tender shredded chicken adds richness, while the crisp cucumber provides a cooling contrast to the bold flavours.

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Chowhound Beef 4.2/5

The Chowhound Beef is available in a single portion ($14.80) or served in a cloisonné pot ($48). This dish features premium beef slices slow-cooked for 24 hours in a nutritious herbal broth infused with 21 medicinal ingredients, including red dates, goji berries, and angelica root. The tender beef absorbs all the herbal goodness, making it a flavourful and nourishing delight. It is best enjoyed with Sichuan chilli powder or creamy sesame sauce for added depth.

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Geleshan Laziji 4.8/5

The Geleshan Laziji ($23.80) is undoubtedly one of the best versions of this Sichuan classic we've had in a long time. Unlike most places that use a single type of chilli, Chef Lam's version incorporates three different varieties of Sichuan and Guizhou chillies, creating a complex and fragrant heat. The chicken is fried to perfection — crispy on the outside and juicy and tender inside — making every bite spicy, smoky, and incredibly satisfying.

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Dongpo's Golden Soup with Pickled Fish 4.8/5

A standout dish, the Dongpo’s Golden Soup with Pickled Fish ($29.90) showcases a harmonious balance of sourness, spice, and umami. The broth, made with premium Sichuan pickled vegetables, delivers a rich and tangy aroma, while the thinly sliced fish absorbs the soup’s essence, resulting in a deeply flavourful and comforting dish.

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Gold Medal Kung Po Chicken 5/5

The Gold Medal Kung Po Chicken ($16.80) lives up to its name — it won gold at the World Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Skills Competition. This dish is a true revelation, featuring a perfectly balanced combination of smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours. The flavour complexity in this version elevates it far beyond the typical Kung Po Chicken, making it an absolute must-try.

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Sizzling Seafood Crispy Rice 4.5/5

The Sizzling Seafood Crispy Rice ($39.90) is an exciting creation for a visually stunning and interactive dish. A crisp rice shell is dramatically cracked open at the table, revealing a rich, seafood-infused sauce filled with juicy prawns, abalone, and vegetables. The crispy rice absorbs the savoury sauce, offering a symphony of textures.

CHEFLAM’s Sichuan Cuisine delivers an authentic yet refined Sichuan dining experience, staying true to traditional flavours while incorporating premium ingredients and innovative techniques. The Geleshan Laziji, Gold Medal Kung Po Chicken, and Dongpo’s Golden Soup with Pickled Fish are definite highlights. Whether you’re a spice lover or looking to explore Sichuan cuisine at its finest, this restaurant is worth the visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


CHEFLAM's Sichuan Cuisine
Guoco Tower
5 Wallich Street
#01-13
Singapore 078883
Tel: +65 89016266
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT Station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to the open air plaza area above the MRT station. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, January 16, 2025

Shabu Shabu Sumire An @ 100AM Mall - All You Can Eat Shabu Shabu

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Located next door to Yakiniku Gyubei is Royal Shoji's second concept, Shabu Shabu Sumire An, which brings us the beloved Japanese hotpot experience. Shabu Shabu Sumire An also offers a highly competitive lunch deal, allowing guests to choose from options like Pork Belly, US Beef Chuck Roll, US Strip Loin, or Wagyu Beef Chuck Eye Roll. In addition to 1 serving of main protein, diners can enjoy unlimited servings of rice, noodles, vegetables, and desserts — all within a 60-minute time limit. This all-you-can-eat experience is a great option for those looking to indulge in a hearty lunch.

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During our visit, we also tasted the Hokkaido Silky Pork Belly featured on their dinner menu. The pork had a remarkably clean taste that I thoroughly enjoyed. The chef thoughtfully paired it with Konbu Dashi to allow us to fully appreciate the high quality of the pork. While the pork was undeniably excellent, I found the Konbu Dashi too light for my preferences.

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Not to worry though, guests can choose their preferred two soups from a selection of six options - Signature Black Sesame-based Spicy Soup, Kombu Dashi, Spicy Miso Dashi, Soy Milk Dashi, Chicken Broth Dashi, and Tomato Dashi.

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The vegetable counter offers a wide selection of vegetables to cook in your hotpot, including my favourite- pumpkin!

Somen plate

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There were also somen noodles paired with a hot dipping sauce, which was a nice touch. I recommend adding some yuzu kosho and spring onions into the sauce for a refreshing citrusy kick.

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To end, there is also a dessert counter with a small selection of fresh-cut fruits and some ice creams.

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Whenever you're in the mood for Japanese hotpot, Shabu Shabu Sumire An is a good option for those seeking comforting, quality Japanese dining experiences at accessible price point. 

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


Shabu Shabu Sumire An
100AM Mall
100 Tras Street
#03-11
Singapore 079027
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk towards Gopeng Street and turn into Tras Street. Walk to Amara Hotel. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Racines @ Sofitel Singapore City Centre - Feasts Of Fortune to Usher in Year of the Snake

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This Lunar New Year, Sofitel Singapore City Centre celebrates the season of prosperity and reunion with thoughtfully curated culinary experiences, blending traditional flavours with modern touches. Over at Racines, the Fortune Set Lunches and Dinners curated are 4-course set lunch and 5-course set dinner, perfect for gatherings with loved ones or even business lunches.

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Bountiful 8-Grain Yu Sheng (Tasting portion) 4/5

Begin the feast with an auspicious toss of Yu Sheng. The Bountiful 8-Grain Yu Sheng (Vegetarian) ($48/$88/$138), a new creation for the season, symbolizes an abundant harvest. Designed with health-conscious diners in mind, it features a wholesome mix of grains and seeds, including black-eyed beans, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, and millet, offering delightful textures.

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Double-boiled Chicken Soup 5/5

The next course, a Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Dried Scallop and Cordycep Blossoms, impressed with its comforting sweetness and deep flavours, making it a crowd favourite.

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Pen Cai 4.5/5

Another quintessential dish, Chef Andrew's Pen Cai, combines an opulent array of ingredients, such as abalone, scallops, prawns, pork belly, duck, pork tendon, fish maw, braised sea cucumber, fatt choy, and truffle. The sauce had a nice, savoury depth of flavour without being overly rich.

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Deep-fried Tiger Prawn in Curry Garlic Aioli 3/5

The Deep-fried Tiger Prawn in Curry Garlic Aioli added a modern flair to the menu. While the batter was slightly greasy, the prawn itself was succulent, with a satisfying texture.

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Hakka-style Pork Belly with Taro 4.5/5

The Hakka-style Pork Belly with Taro, a nostalgic recipe passed down in Chef Andrew's family since the 1970s, exuded a sense of homely comfort. Its richness was best enjoyed with a warm bowl of white rice.

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Cod Fish with Yuzu Butter Sauce 4/5

Another dish that offered a contemporary twist to a Lunar New Year staple was the Cod Fish with Yuzu Butter Sauce. The fish was perfectly moist and flaky, while the yuzu butter sauce added a delightful balance of richness and citrusy brightness.

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Hor Yip Fan 5/5

The highlight was the most aesthetically pleasing Hor Yip Fan (Steamed Waxed Meat Rice and Chinese Sausage in Lotus Leaf). This classic, traditionally made with glutinous rice, was reimagined with a lighter blend of fragrant rice and glutinous rice. Steamed with three waxed meats — pork, pork belly, and liver — for two hours, the dish was flavourful, texturally delightful, and certainly moreish!

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Duo of Osmanthus Jelly with Bergamot Sorbet & Fried Nian Gao 3.5/5

Dessert was a Duo of Osmanthus Jelly with Bergamot Sorbet & Fried Nian Gao, delivering a delightful hot-and-cold contrast. While the crust of the Nian Gao was slightly thicker than expected, its chewy, sweet interior was satisfying. The refreshing bergamot sorbet rounded off the dessert beautifully. Osmanthus Jelly with Bergamot Sorbet

4-Course Fortune Set Lunch 13 January to 12 February 2025 12pm to 3pm $68++ per person
5-Course Fortune Set Dinner 13 January to 12 February 2025 6pm to 10pm $88++ per person

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


Racines
Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Level 5
9 Wallich Street
Singapore 078885
Tel: +65 64285000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 7am - 1030am, 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right on Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Ya Ge (雅阁) @ Orchid Hotel Singapore - A Springtime Feast of Togetherness For Chinese New Year

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Ya Ge (雅阁), nestled within the Orchid Hotel, welcomes the Year of the Snake with its Chinese New Year 2025 Menu, a vibrant celebration of togetherness and abundance. The menu features nine festive dine-in options, ranging from $98++ per person to $2488++ for groups of ten, ensuring every intimate or grand gathering is imbued with culinary excellence. For those celebrating at home, Ya Ge also offers a takeaway menu with a variety of festive delights.

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Crispy Golden Eel and Yellowtail Yu Sheng 4.2/5

No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without a Lo Hei, and Ya Ge takes it to the next level with its Crispy Golden Eel and Yellowtail Yu Sheng. Designed in the shape of a snake to honour the Year of the Snake, the dish combines vibrant yellowtail, crispy eel skin, and finely shredded vegetables. The highlight is the house-made passionfruit kumquat dressing, which adds a fruity zest to the traditional dish. The presentation is elevated with koi fish-shaped mango puddings, providing a delightful, sweet finishing touch.

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Double-boiled Superior Soup with Whole Chicken and Shark's Fin stuffed in Pig's Maw 5/5

The Double-boiled Superior Soup is a showstopper. A deboned An Xin chicken and premium shark's fin are carefully stuffed inside a pig's maw, then slow-simmered in a broth brimming with flavours from old hen, chicken feet, chicken bones, lean meat, and white pepper. The result? A deeply comforting and indulgent bowl of soup with tender chicken and luscious shark's fin, perfect for savouring every last drop.

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Stir-fried Australian Lobster with Truffle Oil, Pine Nuts, Hokkaido Milk and Asparagus 4/5

This luxurious dish features Stir-fried Australian Lobster paired with tender white asparagus, enveloped in a rich Hokkaido milk and egg white sauce. A touch of truffle oil adds an earthy aroma, while pine nuts and caviar lend textural contrast and umami richness. Every bite feels decadently smooth and flavourful — a true highlight of the meal.

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Smoked Herb-infused Irish 'Pipa' Duck 5/5

The Smoked Herb-infused Irish 'Pipa' Duck is a crowd favourite. This masterpiece is dry-aged for 168 hours, marinated for 24 hours, and roasted to perfection. Smoked with a blend of Western and Chinese herbs, the duck's crispy, golden skin encases tender, flavourful meat, making it a sensory delight and a must-try dish for all diners.

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Braised 5-head Abalone and Pork Trotter with White Shiitake Mushroom 4.5/5

Slow-braised for over four hours, the Braised Pork Trotter is fork-tender, with its gelatinous skin melting in the mouth. Paired with premium 5-head abalone and white shiitake mushrooms, the dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavours, complemented by a rich, aromatic sauce.



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Claypot Chicken Rice with Chinese Sausage and Grilled Eel 4.2/5

The Claypot Chicken Rice is a comforting and elevated take on a classic. The rice, infused with the smoky essence of preserved meats like Chinese sausage, is fragrant and fluffy. Adding grilled eel as a topping enhances the dish with a layer of richness, creating a luxurious, flavourful finish.

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Yoghurt Raspberry Pudding 4/5

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Chilled Plum Jelly with Fresh Berries 4/5

The meal concludes on a refreshing note with two exquisite desserts. The Yoghurt Raspberry Pudding balances creamy sweetness with the tang of raspberry, while the Chilled Plum Jelly with Fresh Berries provides a sweet-and-sour symphony that is both light and invigorating, making it the perfect finale to a festive feast.

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Ya Ge's CNY 2025 menu will be available for dine-in from 13 January to 12 February 2025, with reservations highly recommended due to limited seating and high demand. The takeaway sets and goodies can be made online 3 days in advance at https://eshop-yage.myshopify.com or the restaurant. Guests can enjoy a 15% discount on pre-orders made between 1 and 31 January. For more information on all Chinese New Year menus and takeaway festive goodies, please log on to www.orchidhotel.com.sg/offers/yage-2025-chinese-new-year

Note: This is an invited tasting


Ya Ge (雅阁)
Orchid Hotel Singapore
1 Tras Link
Singapore 078867
Tel: +65 6818 6831
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight towards Orchid Hotel. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, January 12, 2025

Yakiniku Gyubei @ 100AM Mall - Japan's Zero-waste, Head-to-Tail Wagyu Restaurant Debuts In Singapore

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Royal Shoji introduces two new exciting Japanese dining concepts situated side by side at 100AM mall. The first concept, Yakiniku Gyubei, marks the brand's highly anticipated debut outside Japan. With a rich heritage spanning over 25 years and 22 outlets across Japan, Yakiniku Gyubei has built a reputation for its innovative approach to yakiniku dining.

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The restaurant is renowned for its zero-waste, head-to-tail philosophy, which ensures every part of the ethically sourced Wagyu beef from the Kyushu region is utilised to create an exceptional dining experience. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of 24 premium cuts, each carefully chosen for its quality and tenderness.

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Yakiniku Gyubei offers an extensive and enticing lunch menu designed to suit a variety of budgets. For those seeking a quick and casual meal, options like Hot Stone Bibimbap are available starting at just $12.90. Meanwhile, their cook-your-own-lunch sets are available starting at an affordable $13.90, with choices including US Beef Ribs, Hokkaido Pork, and Chicken Thigh. Each set is served with a salad, a side dish, rice, and soup, for a satisfying meal. enjoy a wide selection of 24 premium cuts, each carefully chosen for its quality and tenderness.

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Salad and soup and rice

For those who prefer a more indulgent experience, the Signature Gyubei lunch ($33.90++) features three premium cuts of Wagyu beef, each seared to perfection on your personal grill. It's paired with the same assortment of fresh salad, side dish, rice, and soup. It's really delicious!

Omakase wagyu 6 cuts platter-2

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For an elevated dining experience, opt for the Omakase lunch for two (100++ for 2 pax). It sets itself apart by showcasing six premium cuts sourced from a single cow and highlighting wagyu's rich marbling and exceptional tenderness. Each cut delivers a melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture and a rich depth of flavour.

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This omakase lunch also includes salad, a side dish and two meals from a choice of:

· Bibimbap + Soup
· Beef Rib Soup + Rice
· Hot & Spicy Beef Soup + Rice
· Egg Drop Soup + Rice
· Cold Noodle

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The dinner menu includes à la carte options like wagyu sushi, sashimi, noodles as well as Yakiniku Assortment Grill Sets available in 4 Kinds ($48), 6 Kinds ($98), and 8 Kinds ($148). To celebrate its grand opening in Singapore, Yakiniku Gyubei is offering $30 off its Yakiniku Assortment Grill Sets (6 Kinds) ($68, U.P. $98) from 10–26 January 2025. This exclusive promotion is available for walk-ins only.

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


Yakiniku Gyubei
100AM Mall
100 Tras Street
#03-10
Singapore 079027
Tel: +65 69700276
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk towards Gopeng Street and turn into Tras Street. Walk to Amara Hotel. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]