Obongzip @ The Star Vista - A Hearty Korean Feast of Nakji, Bossam and Makguksu

Obongzip has expanded its presence in Singapore with a new outlet at The Star Vista, bringing its popular Korean comfort fare to the West. Conveniently located at the exterior of the mall near the taxi stand, the restaurant draws diners in with its signature offerings of fiery stir-fried octopus and comforting bossam platters. For our visit, we went straight for the Obongzip Special ($108), a hearty set comprising Fire-Grilled Spicy Nakji, Pork Bossam, and Makguksu — ideal for sharing.

Banchan 3/5 & Seaweed Soup 4.8/5

Our meal began with a tray of banchan, dipping sauces, and a bowl of Seaweed Soup. The banchan selection offered the usual assortment of pickles and sides to whet the appetite, but the seaweed soup stood out. Light yet deeply comforting, it provided a gentle, savoury warmth that felt almost restorative — a thoughtful prelude to the bold and robust flavours to come.

Fire Grilled Spicy Nakji 4.5/5

The Fire-Grilled Spicy Nakji took centre stage. Available in varying spice levels, the dish features tender octopus stir-fried in a glossy, sweet-spicy sauce alongside vegetables. The staff thoughtfully cuts the octopus into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to enjoy. Each mouthful delivered a satisfying chew, coated in a punchy sauce that balanced sweetness with a lingering heat.

For a more complete experience, we highly recommend ordering a bowl of Seaweed Rice. Mixing the spicy octopus into the rice with a drizzle of sesame oil transforms it into a bibimbap-style dish — deeply flavourful, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying.

Makguksu 4.2/5

The Makguksu is presented differently from what one might expect. Served on a plate with the buckwheat noodles, seaweed, vegetables and sauce laid out separately, the staff will toss everything together tableside before serving. Once mixed, the noodles are evenly coated in the spicy-sweet gochujang sauce. The buckwheat noodles have a delightful chew, while the vegetables lend a refreshing crunch. A splash of vinegar further brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the meal and adding a tangy lift that makes it especially slurp-worthy.

Pork Bossam 4.2/5

The Pork Bossam was another highlight of the meal. The tender slices of boiled pork were soft, juicy, and clean-tasting, with just the right amount of fat for richness. There are multiple ways to enjoy it — on its own to appreciate its natural flavours, paired with kimchi for a punch of acidity, or wrapped in lettuce with garlic and green chilli for a more robust bite. For added depth, dipping the pork into Obongzip’s fermented shrimp sauce or ssamjang further enhances its savoury profile, delivering layers of umami with every bite.

With its generous portions and well-executed dishes, Obongzip at The Star Vista offers a satisfying Korean dining experience, especially for those who enjoy bold, punchy flavours. The Obongzip Special is a great introduction to the restaurant’s signatures, making it a worthwhile spot for group dining or casual get-togethers in the West.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Obongzip
The Star Vista
1 Vista Exchange Green
#01-43/K4
Singapore 138617
Tel: +65 83432251
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 1030pm

Direction:
Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit A or C. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

The Drunken Chef Private Dining - Affordable Home Private Dining with Comforting Chinese Classics

The Drunken Chef by Sherine Chua is one of the newest additions to the home private dining scene, offering a Chinese cuisine menu at $98 per pax, making it one of the most affordable options currently available. The experience focuses on comforting, well-executed dishes that feel familiar yet thoughtfully prepared, making it ideal for intimate gatherings and family-style celebrations.

We started with the Marinated Tomatoes, a refreshing opener that delivered a pleasant balance of sweetness and tanginess. Light and appetising, it gently whetted our appetite and set the tone nicely for the upcoming feast.

Braised Beef Shin & Tripe 4.5/5

One of the highlights was the Braised Beef Shin & Tripe. Both components were well infused with the rich braising sauce. The beef shin was tender and flavourful, while the tripe retained a delightful chewy bite. A gentle hint of spiciness helped lift the overall flavour profile, making this a satisfying and robust dish to start the meal.

Drunken Chicken 4/5

The Drunken Chicken was tender and well-cooked, though it felt slightly restrained in terms of the Chinese wine aroma and flavour. A more generous hand with the alcohol could have elevated the dish further, giving it the signature fragrance that drunken chicken lovers would expect.

Kam Heong Clams 5/5

The Kam Heong Clams stood out with their bold aromatics. The sweet and juicy clams were beautifully coated in a fragrant, punchy sauce that paired exceptionally well with rice. The sauce was so addictive that it was impossible not to drizzle it generously over our bowls, savouring every last drop.

Sio Bak 4.8/5

A clear crowd favourite at the table was the Sio Bak. It had been a while since I encountered this style of roast pork, featuring an addictive, crispy, almost biscuity skin. It immediately brought to mind the roasting technique of 88 Hong Kong Roast Meat Specialist, delivering both nostalgia and satisfaction with every bite.

Cai Poh Steamed Snapper 4.5/5

The Cai Poh Steamed Snapper was simply and skilfully executed. Steamed to perfection, the fish remained moist and tender, while the preserved radish and soy sauce enhanced and highlighted the natural sweetness of the fish meat without overpowering it.

Kai Shui Bai Cai 4.2/5

At first glance, the Kai Shui Bai Cai may look humble and unassuming, but simple dishes often require the most finesse. This was done excellently — clean, light, and delicious, allowing the vegetable's natural sweetness to shine through.

Seafood Pao Fan 4.5/5

The undeniable highlight of the dinner was the Seafood Pao Fan. Even before it arrived at the table, the rich crustacean aroma wafted out from the kitchen. Once served, the fragrance intensified, drawing everyone in. The robust seafood flavours paired with fluffy rice created a dish that was both hearty and deeply comforting, making it a memorable centrepiece of the meal.

Gui Hua Gao 4.2/5

To end on a sweet note, we were served Gui Hua Gao (Osmanthus Jelly). The gentle sweetness and floral fragrance of osmanthus were complemented by crunchy chestnuts and wolfberries, offering a light yet satisfying conclusion to the meal.

Overall, The Drunken Chef by Sherine Chua delivers a value-driven home private dining experience with comforting Chinese dishes that resonate with warmth and familiarity. At $98 per pax, it presents an accessible entry point into the private dining scene, especially for those seeking honest flavours and a hearty communal dining experience.


The Drunken Chef Private Dining
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)

Mr Grumpy by Fiie's Cafe @ Holland Drive - Famous Crispy Fried Chicken Rice From Lucky Plaza

Mr Grumpy by Fiie's Cafe, located at Holland Drive, is the latest outpost from the team behind the famed Nasi Ayam Goreng at Lucky Plaza. It's hard to miss the stall with its bright yellow signage boldly proclaiming itself as the "No.1 Nasi Ayam Goreng in Town." That cheeky confidence feels like a direct challenge, daring you to try the dish and judge for yourself. The name Mr Grumpy is just as memorable, and for good reason. The owner is known in local food circles as Singapore's 'rudest' nasi ayam goreng seller, a reputation earned from his no-nonsense, straight-talking style at the original Far East outlet. But if there's one thing you can expect, it's that the food does the talking.

Nasi Ayam Goreng 4.5/5

At $6.50, each plate of Nasi Ayam Goreng comes with your choice of thigh or breast meat, deep-fried to a perfect golden brown. The skin is crisp with a generous sprinkle of crunchy batter bits on top, giving every bite a satisfying crackle. Despite being deep-fried, the chicken retains its moisture beautifully. It's tender, juicy, and full of flavour.

The real surprise, though, lies beneath the chicken. The rice, cooked in chicken fat, is fragrant and flavourful, reminiscent of Hainanese chicken rice but with a bolder undertone. It's rich without being greasy and forms a perfect base for the fried chicken. Then there's the sambal, a sweet and spicy concoction that brings the whole dish together. It has just the right amount of heat, laced with a sweetness that doesn't overpower but complements the chicken and rice seamlessly.

Want to elevate your meal? You can add on side items like Sambal Quail, Sambal Hotdog, or Begedil for just $1 each. These small extras round off the meal nicely, adding more variety and indulgence.

Mr Grumpy may be gruff, but he's not messing around when it comes to his food. This plate of Nasi Ayam Goreng hits all the right notes: crispy, juicy chicken, flavourful rice, and a punchy sambal that keeps you coming back for more. The bold signage outside may come off as a gimmick, but once you've tried it, you might agree that this unassuming stall deserves its claim to fame.


My Grumpy by Fiie's Cafe
Blk 43 Holland Drive
#01-75
Singapore 270043
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Nearest MRT: Bouna Vista (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 8pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit A. Follow the underpass to the other side of the road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Ikki Izakaya @ The Metropolis - Japanese Comfort Food with a Local Twist

Tucked away at The Metropolis in Buona Vista, Ikki Izakaya is a modern Japanese-style izakaya that impresses with its expansive space, high ceilings, and laid-back yet contemporary atmosphere. Despite being around for eight years, it still feels like a hidden gem — offering a solid lineup of Japanese comfort food alongside an impressive selection of alcoholic beverages. Whether you're looking to wind down after work or catch up with friends over bites and booze, Ikki delivers an easygoing, fuss-free dining experience.

Spicy Maguro Poppers 4/5

We started the meal with the Spicy Maguro Poppers ($9.80) — a fun and flavourful bite served in crunchy pie tee cups. Inside, you'll find cubes of tuna sashimi marinated in gochujang, sitting on a creamy avocado base and topped with tobiko for that extra savoury burst. It's spicy, creamy, crunchy — all in one mouthful — and a great way to whet the appetite.

Tofu Crisps 3.5/5

We also tried the Tofu Crisps ($9), a simple yet addictive snack that substitutes fries or chips with thin, crispy tofu skin. While not particularly bold in flavour, it's a satisfying vegetarian-friendly option that goes perfectly with a cold pint.

Ikki Maki 4/5

One of the standouts for the evening was the Ikki Maki ($17.70), a rich and indulgent sushi roll that hits all the right notes. Cream cheese, avocado, and mentaiko sauce form the core of the roll, wrapped and topped with aburi salmon, mini fish roe, and a dusting of seaweed powder. Each bite is creamy, smoky, and umami-packed — a roll that's clearly earned its signature status on the menu.

IKKI's Kick Ass Har Cheong Gai Curry Udon 3.5/5

Adding a local twist to Japanese fare, the IKKI's Kick Ass Har Cheong Gai Curry Udon ($16.50) offers a unique blend of flavours. The creamy Japanese curry base is comforting and fragrant, served with a crispy chicken cutlet marinated in traditional prawn paste. While the concept is fun, the execution was slightly off during our visit — the seasoning leaned too salty, which overwhelmed the dish's otherwise enjoyable components.

SPAM Kimchi Fried Rice 4/5

For something more comforting and hearty, the SPAM Kimchi Fried Rice ($12.80) hits the mark. The fried rice is smoky and robust, filled with the punchy flavour of well-fermented kimchi and balanced out by soft, sweet tamagoyaki and pan-fried spam slices. It's the kind of dish you'd want after a long night out.

Ikki's Tsukune Platter 3.5/5

We ended with Ikki's Tsukune Platter ($16.80), featuring five yakitori-style chicken meatballs glazed in a different sauce: Mentaiko, Gochujang Miso, Okonomiyaki, Cheese, and Original. The platter makes for a great sharing dish, offering variety in flavour, though some combinations stood out more than others. Still, it's a fun and interactive way to sample different seasonings, especially with drinks.

Overall, Ikki Izakaya feels like a well-kept secret. It blends local influences with Japanese izakaya vibes in a relaxed and spacious setting. Whether you're in it for the drinks, the creative fusion dishes, or just a chill place to hang out, Ikki Izakaya checks all the right boxes.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ikki Izakaya
The Metropolis
9 North Buona Vista Drive
#01-06/07
Singapore 138588
Tel: +65 8138 8578
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 11pm
Sat: 6pm - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction
1) Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit B or D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Paradise Pizza & Elixir Coffee and Wine @ Holland Grove - Indulge in New Lineup of Artisanal Sourdough Pizzas, Pastas and Sides

The introduction of Paradise Pizza was inspired by the popularity of the pasta and pizzas previously served by Elixir Coffee and Wine.

Both brands are still housed under one roof in Holland Grove, allowing you to enjoy quality coffee and wines alongside a refreshed menu of sourdough pizzas, pasta and sides, all inspired by comfort foods from around the world.

Beverages

We opted for a refreshing Yuzu Cooler ($6) and the chocolatey Marou Single Origin Chocolate ($7) for our beverages. For coffee enthusiasts, don't miss their brews made with beans from the award-winning Blacklist Coffee in Perth.

Deep Fried Burrata 4/5

The Deep Fried Burrata ($24) immediately caught our eye from the list of starters. This hearty dish features a thin-crusted fried burrata ball served with pomodoro, arugula rocket, and balsamic caviar. The plate offered a well-balanced blend of savoury and sweet, with the balsamic caviar adding pops of sweet and fruity notes.

Mentaiko Lemon Butter 4.2/5

The Mentaiko Lemon Butter ($22) pasta was a delightful surprise. The mafaldine’s curly edges excellently picked up the bright sauce, which, though initially more sour than expected, became increasingly enjoyable. The generous addition of tobiko provided extra bursts of salty notes and crunch.

Jap A Dog 4.5/5

Paradise Pizza created Jap A Dog ($26), inspired by the popular hot dog chain in Canada. The combination of Arabiki sausage, furikake, kewpie mayo and bonito flakes was harmonious and reminiscent of an okonomiyaki. Make sure to dig into the pizza while it's hot to appreciate the chewy, freshly made sourdough base fully! There are currently 7 other pizza flavours to check out, including interesting options like Hot Assam and Black Truffle, as well as classics such as Pepperoni and Margherita.

Darn Good Tiramisu 4/5

We completed our meal with the Darn Good Tiramisu ($14), crafted with mascarpone and Blacklist’s espresso, following the same recipe as the restaurant’s sister brand, Fat Belly. While I found it slightly too creamy for my liking, the flavours were spot on, making it a satisfying end to our meal.

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.


Paradise Pizza & Elixir Coffee and Wine
Parksuites
24 Holland Grove Road
#01-18
Singapore 278803
Tel: +65 6908 5547
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line), Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 11am - 9pm
(Closed on Mon-Tue)

Direction:
Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit A or C. Walk to bus stop at Buona Vista MRT station (Stop ID 11361) along Buona Vista Road. Take bus number 92. Alight 4 stops later. Cross the road and walk to Holland Grove Road. Walk down Holland Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop along Holland Road (Stop ID 11261). Take bus number 7, 61, 75, or 165. Alight 3 stop later. Walk straight down Holland Road to Holland Grove Road. Turn left onto Holand Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Verandah @ Rael's @ The Star Vista - Opens A Second Outlet in the West

Verandah @ Rael's, having opened its doors at TripleOne Somerset, is thrilled to unveil its second outlet at The Star Vista. Boasting both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a private room, this new establishment offers the perfect space for gathering with family and friends to indulge in your favourite Peranakan and Indonesian comfort dishes.

Kueh Pie Tee 3.5/5

We kicked off our dinner with the Kueh Pie Tee, featuring bite-sized crispy tart shells accompanied by a sweet mixture of vegetables and shrimp. Diners can enjoy the interactive experience of assembling their own delectable bites, and for those seeking a spicy kick, a dollop of homemade chilli adds an extra dimension of flavour.

Verandah's Achar 3.5/5

A newcomer to the menu, Verandah's Achar, offers a mildly spiced and sourish condiment, providing the perfect accompaniment to the main dishes.

Nonya Ngoh Hiang 4.2/5

The Nonya Ngoh Hiang emerged as a crowd favourite. Its deep-fried rolls were filled with flavorful minced pork, prawns, and the sweetness of water chestnut encased in dried beancurd skin. It was so delightful that we found ourselves requesting a second serving.

Verandah's Specialty Sambal Brinjal 4/5

Sambal Long Beans 4/5

For our vegetable dishes, we savoured the Verandah's Specialty Sambal Brinjal, wok-fired and adorned with the restaurant's tangy house speciality sambal, as well as the new Sambal Long Beans, where crunchy beans are stir-fried in a fragrant and spicy sambal sauce.

Tau Yu Bak 3.8/5

Introducing another addition to the menu, the Tau Yu Bak featured pork braised in caramelized soy sauces with spices. This resulted in a savoury dish with a hint of sweetness, though some felt the pork could have been more tender.

Curry Chicken 4.5/5

A definite must-have was the Curry Chicken, where tender chicken pieces were bathed in a rich and fragrant curry gravy infused with ground herbs, spices, and a hint of lemongrass. The irresistible curry gravy left me reaching for more to drench our rice in.

Assam Fish 4/5

Finally, the Assam Fish, filleted for ease of consumption, was simmered in a mouthwatering Assam gravy that tantalized the taste buds with its spicy and tangy flavours.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Verandah @ Rael's
The Star Vista
1 Vista Exchange Green
#01-33/K2
Singapore 138617
Tel: +65 6380 2381
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Website
Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit A or C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]