Warung Leko @ Bugis - Popular Restaurant From Surabaya Known For Its Iga Penyet Opens In Singapore

With more than 40 outlets in Surabaya, Warung Leko has recently opened its branch in Singapore on Rochor Road. Serving a variety of penyet dishes, the restaurant is best known for its Iga Penyet, which features smashed beef ribs.

Iga and Otot Penyet 4.5/5

Almost the entire menu is dedicated to deep-fried dishes, yet it’s a pleasant surprise to find Fried Otot (fried tendon) as well. To experience both of its specialities, we ordered the Iga and Otot Penyet ($22.50), which combines smashed beef ribs with fried tendon. Each penyet is layered with a generous serving of sambal, and you can choose your preferred level of heat. The ribs are first boiled before being deep-fried, resulting in succulent meat that retains its irresistible deep-fried crispiness. The morsels of fried tendon were outstanding, skillfully cooked to retain their chewy texture while forming a contrasting exterior. They are as dangerous as crispy pork lard but with added collagen. The sambal itself felt like a side dish in its own right, bold enough to be savoured on its own.

Soft Beef Ribs Soup 5/5

Oxtail Soup 4.5/5

I would also recommend trying the soups. We had both the Soft Beef Ribs Soup ($15) and Oxtail Soup ($15). Depending on the season, the beef ribs are sourced from either Australia or New Zealand. The soups brought out the rich flavours and textures of the ribs and oxtail beautifully. Made by simmering the bones with a variety of spices and likely a generous amount of white pepper, the soups reminded me of solid bowls of Bak Kut Teh, with a subtle peppery hum in the background.

Golden Pomfret 4/5

I enjoyed the Golden Pomfret ($14) more than expected. Crispy without being greasy, even the fins, tail, and head were delightfully crunchy.

Telor Dadar 4.2/5

A crowd-pleasing snack is the Telor Dadar ($2), a simple spiced omelette meant to be dipped into the sambal. It’s a humble dish that beautifully highlights the essence of the sambal.

Stir-Fried Kangkong 4/5

Stir-Fried Broccoli 4/5

For vegetables, we tried the Stir-Fried Broccoli ($8) and Stir-Fried Kangkong ($8), both prepared in an Indo-Chinese style. Topped with fried garlic bits and eggs, the stir-fried broccoli surprisingly carried a flavour reminiscent of Hokkien Mee, in a very good way.

Its authenticity is evident not only in the food but also in the crowd. I witnessed a significant number of Indonesians dining there, with locals adding to the mix. On the day of my visit, I even bumped into a friend whose hometown is Surabaya! Warung Leko is definitely a welcome addition to Singapore’s F&B scene. More items will be added to the menu gradually as operations stabilise. So do keep a lookout for it.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Warung Leko
162 Rochor Road
Singapore 188437
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 10pm
Sat-Sun & PH: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction at Rochor Road and Victoria Street. Cross the road. Turn right onto Rochor Road. Walk down Rochor Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Brings China's Most Elaborate Culinary Traditions, Manchu-Han Imperial Feast (满汉全席) to Singapore

For the first time, Man Fu Yuan at InterContinental Singapore will present one of China's most elaborate culinary traditions — the Manchu-Han Imperial Feast (满汉全席) — in Singapore this November, on 8 and 9 November 2025. The hotel's Executive Chinese Chef, Aaron Tan, the first Singaporean formally trained in this historic art, will lead the experience alongside his mentor, Master Chef Qi Jinzhu. Together, they will present a rare interpretation of the legendary banquet.

Originating in the 17th century, the Manchu-Han Imperial Feast is considered one of the grandest banquets in Chinese history — once reserved exclusively for emperors and state occasions, with over 100 elaborate dishes served over several days. This marks the first time the feast will be authentically realised in Singapore, offering diners an unprecedented taste of both Manchu and Han culinary traditions.

Master Chef Qi is a direct culinary descendant of the Qing Dynasty's court chefs, having trained under Tang Keming, the last imperial chef of the Qing court. With more than five decades dedicated to preserving original recipes and techniques, his credentials lend an unmatched authenticity to the feast. Unlike past attempts in Hong Kong or Singapore, this is the first time a formally recognised disciple of Master Chef Qi is presenting the banquet. Chef Aaron himself is among the very few globally to have earned this honour, after an intensive selection process and training.

We were given a preview of the upcoming five-hour banquet (5.30pm to 10.30pm), priced at $588++ per pax. Reservations can be made at singapore.intercontinental.com/manhan

The meal begins ceremoniously with Premium Puer Tea with Chrysanthemum, followed by an assortment of dry nuts, dried fruits, fresh fruits, snacks, and pickles — already an impressive spread of 20 items just in the second course.

Cold Appetiser: Braised Items

A quartet of braised appetisers featuring Braised Duck Gizzard, Beef Shank, Wasabi Pork Tripe Slices, and Fragrance Flower Mushroom sets the tone with contrasting textures and flavours.

Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Fish Mousse, Chinese Ham and White Fungus

This luxurious Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Fish Mousse, Chinese Ham and White Fungus balances richness and delicacy, with the savoury depth of Chinese ham complementing the prized bird's nest. The silky fish mousse was the highlight — unexpectedly soft, almost custard-like in texture.

Premium Dried Australia Abalone with Dried Grouper Skin

The Premium Dried Australia Abalone with Dried Grouper Skin showcases finesse and control. The premium Xu Rong abalone was braised to tenderness in a fragrant stock, paired with nearly two metres of dried grouper skin that imparted deep umami.

Braised Deer Trotter

The Braised Deer Trotter is presented elegantly in a Chinese Bagua (八卦). The deer trotter was braised until tender, accompanied by sweet melon and tofu for a balanced flavour.

Bear Paw with Broccoli (Imitation Bear Paw)

Recreating a once-forbidden delicacy, The Bear Paw with Broccoli is an imitation. The "bear paw" was crafted using pig skin, minced pork and beef tendon, wrapped and simmered gently to mimic the gelatinous texture and flavour of the original. A fascinating homage.

Stir-fried Seasonal Vegetables with Wild Mushroom and Fungus

Stir-fried Shredded Pork Loin with Green Pepper

A lighter interlude featured Stir-fried Seasonal Vegetables with Wild Mushroom and Fungus and Stir-fried Shredded Pork Loin with Green Pepper — simple yet showcasing the beauty of seasonal produce and wok hei.

Steamed Pork and Radish Dumplings

Grilled Shredded Prata

The Steamed Pork and Radish Dumpling, shaped like a golden ingot, was plump and juicy, while the Grilled Shredded Prata offered a crisp, savoury bite.

Baby Spinach with Tofu and Rice

The banquet concluded with the comforting Baby Spinach with Tofu and Rice, before a final cup of Cantonese tea to cleanse the palate.

This preview was just a glimpse of the grand scale to come. The full Manchu-Han Imperial Feast promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. From imperial delicacies to homely comforts, the banquet spans centuries of Chinese culinary heritage, meticulously preserved and reinterpreted for Singapore diners.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - A Refreshed Cantonese Journey by Chef Aaron Tan

Man Fu Yuan at InterContinental Singapore introduces a refreshed dining experience that honours the refined legacy of Cantonese cuisine while embracing modern expressions under the vision of Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan. Inspired by his travels across Asia, Chef Aaron presents reimagined dishes that celebrate the roots of Cantonese flavours while catering to the evolving tastes of today’s diners.

Classic Cantonese Roasted Iberico Pork Collar with Caviar 4.5/5

Chilled Crab Meat with Crab Roe 4.2/5

Spinach Prawn Dumpling with Black Truffle 4.5/5

Deep-fried Fanny Bay Oyster with Crispy Garlic and Dried Chilli 4.2/5

An elevated rendition of Man Fu Yuan's signature starter, the Chef Combination 2.0 ($38) brings together elements from dim sum, cold kitchen, hot kitchen and barbecue in one elegant presentation. Each component tells its own story. The Chilled Crab Meat with Crab Roe showcases the natural sweetness of fresh crab, complemented by the richness of the roe. Meanwhile, the Classic Cantonese Roasted Iberico Pork Collar with Caviar layers smoky, tender pork with the briny pop of caviar, adding a luxurious twist to a Cantonese favourite. The Deep-fried Fanny Bay Oyster with Crispy Garlic and Dried Chilli delivers a bold interplay of textures and spice, echoing the essence of wok hei with a refined finish. Completing the quartet, the Spinach Prawn Dumpling with Black Truffle reimagines the classic har gow, its silky wrapper encasing sweet prawn accented by earthy truffle. Together, the platter invites diners to rediscover the breadth of Cantonese cuisine, showcasing Chef Aaron's ability to honour tradition while presenting it through a modern, elevated lens.

Poached Red Grouper Fillet in Superior Fish Broth 4.8/5

The Poached Red Grouper Fillet in Superior Fish Broth (market price) is a comforting highlight of the new menu. The tender grouper is poached to perfection in a nourishing broth infused with dang gui and goji berries, then elevated with the aroma of 15-year aged Hua Tiao wine.

Oven-baked Rock Lobster 4.5/5

A modern homage to the nostalgic 1990s Cantonese banquet favourite, the Oven-baked Rock Lobster ($52) is lightly fried before being baked with salted egg yolk sauce, cheese and Thai honey pineapple. The result is a dish that balances sweetness, richness and creamy indulgence while staying rooted in Cantonese flavours.

Flambe Live Prawn with Ginger, Scallion and Singapore White Pepper Sauce 5/5

The Flambe Live Prawn with Ginger, Scallion and Singapore White Pepper Sauce is a showstopper. The sweet, firm prawn is complemented by a pungent, aromatic white pepper sauce, which is the soul of the dish, heightened by the theatrical flambé, which deepens its flavours and aroma.

Crispy Sea Cucumber, Preserved Leek, Minced Pork Sauce, Hong Kong Vegetables 4/5

The Crispy Sea Cucumber is given a crisp coating for contrast, paired with a savoury minced pork sauce reminiscent of mapo tofu. It is a clever play of textures that anchors the dish with bold flavours.

Yellow Chicken 4.5/5

Cooked in a claypot with a medley of aromatics, the Yellow Chicken is tender, juicy and infused with the fragrance of sand ginger, garlic and scallions. It is a comforting crowd-pleaser.

Flambe Roasted Angus Beef Tomahawk with Mongolian Sauce and Spices 4.2/5

Designed for sharing, the Flambe Roasted Angus Beef Tomahawk with Mongolian Sauce and Spices ($188) is first deep-fried to awaken its aroma before being flambéed tableside in a dramatic display. While Western in appearance, the preparation is rooted in Cantonese technique, tied together with a fragrant Mongolian sauce that enhances the celebratory spirit of the dish.

Chilled Soya Milk with Egg White, Bird's Nest, Lotus Seeds, Peach Collagen 4.8/5

The Chilled Soya Milk with Egg White, Bird's Nest, Lotus Seeds, and Peach Collagen brings the experience to a refreshing close. Smooth, silky soya milk is elevated with bird's nest, lotus seeds and peach collagen, offering both luxury and textural finesse.

Man Fu Yuan’s refreshed menu is a thoughtful marriage of heritage and innovation. Chef Aaron Tan honours the finesse of Cantonese cuisine while introducing reimagined expressions that captivate both palate and eye. From nourishing broths to flambéed showpieces, each dish reflects a respect for tradition, elevated with modern sophistication.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

LUCE @ InterContinental Singapore - The Bigger, Better Buffet Experience

LUCE at InterContinental Singapore ups the ante on the hotel buffet scene with the launch of its all-new "Bigger Better Buffet", available daily for dinner and for lunch from Monday to Saturday. The refreshed spread showcases a wider variety of dishes and new live stations, all under the direction of newly appointed Chef de Cuisine Giuseppe Di Gaetano, whose Italian flair breathes fresh life into LUCE's offerings.

No buffet is complete without a lavish Seafood on Ice section, and LUCE certainly delivers. Diners can feast on a bounty of ocean treasures, including Japanese oysters, Australian yabbies, cold water prawns, white clams, half-shell scallops, and sea whelk – fresh, briny, and indulgent.

Premium Charcuterie

Equally impressive is the Charcuterie section, featuring Smoked Virginia Ham, Chambost Saucisson, and Artisanal Pork Terrine. Paired with a glass of wine, these cold cuts set the tone for a luxurious dining experience. The rotating antipasti selection also makes for a delightful prelude to the heavier mains – light, vibrant, and flavourful.

One of the standout sections of the buffet is undoubtedly the Asian Delights, which even includes items prepared by the Man Fu Yuan culinary team. Favourites like Netted Seafood Spring Roll, Deep-fried Tiger Prawns with Almond Flakes, Crispy Cereal Chicken, and a bold Singapore Chilli Prawn shine with authentic local flair. A rich and hearty Lu Rou Fan also stands out among the spread.

Reflecting Singapore’s cultural diversity, LUCE also includes a strong showing of Peranakan and Malay dishes. On rotation are homey classics like Nonya Chap Chye, Assam Seabass Curry, and the savoury-sweet Ayam Masak Hitam, each prepared with care and respect for tradition.

Chef Giuseppe's Italian heritage is proudly showcased in his hearty, soulful creations. The Ragout alla Napoletana, with slow-braised pork ribs and Italian sausage, is a comforting embrace of deep tomato flavours. The Agnello alla Birra Scura, featuring Guinness-braised lamb, is tender and richly layered, while the Impepata di Cozze delights with its briny black mussels in white wine, garlic, and lemon. The Sicilian-style Branzino offers a lighter, elegant counterpoint – a beautifully baked sustainable barramundi with cherry tomatoes and capers. Not to be missed are the showstoppers: the Rigatoni alla Grecia, tossed in LUCE's signature parmesan cheese wheel, and the indulgent Nero di Seppia Pinsa, topped with squid ink tomato sauce, prawns, clams, and mussels.

With the addition of more live stations to the buffet, guests can now enjoy interactive dining with a touch of drama. The Oven-Roasted Angus Beef Striploin is carved to order and paired with shallot red wine jus and gourmet mustards, while the Baked Norwegian Salmon in Puff Pastry, filled with Cajun-spiced salmon and savoy cabbage, impresses with its balance of texture and flavour. At the Italian station, the Tagliatelle al Ragout di Pesce – tossed in a lobster seafood sauce and finished tableside in the parmesan wheel – is rich, luxurious, and beautifully executed. Another highlight is the Signature InterContinental Laksa, a refined version of the local favourite, made à la minute with tiger prawns, quail eggs, and a housemade laksa broth infused with laksa leaf powder for an aromatic finish.

Cheese lovers will appreciate the dedicated cheese room, offering a curated selection of Cheeses and accompaniments. Be sure to save room for desserts – meticulously crafted confections that are as stunning as they are satisfying, offering a sweet finale to an impressive buffet journey.

With its expanded spread, elevated live stations, and Chef Giuseppe’s Italian signatures, LUCE’s Bigger Better Buffet lives up to its name – a sophisticated, well-rounded buffet experience that’s both indulgent and memorable.

LUNCH
Monday to Friday
$59++ per adult | $29++ per child
Saturday
$69++ per adult | $29++ per child

DINNER
Monday to Thursday
$78++ per adult | $39++ per child
Friday and Saturday
$92++ per adult | $44++ per child
Sunday
$88++ per adult | $39++ per child

Note: This is an invited tasting.


LUCE
InterContinental Singapore
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 6825 1008
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 2pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sun: 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]