Da Pang Congee Base Hot Pot (大胖粥底火锅) @ Bukit Batok - Tuck into Comforting & Unique Charcoal Hot Pot Bases Such As Wintermelon Seafood and Congee

Da Pang Congee Base Hot Pot (大胖粥底火锅) is a fresh addition to the hot pot scene, nestled within a coffeeshop at IBIZ Centre, located between Bukit Batok and Jurong East. Its unique broth bases set Da Pang apart from other hot pot spots.

In addition to their signature hot pot offerings, they also serve Fried Hokkien Sotong Prawn Mee ($6/$8/$12), prepared in a slightly wetter style.

When you visit Da Pang, the ingredients for the hot pot are neatly packed and available for self-service from display refrigerators.

With a basket in hand, diners can enjoy a 'shopping trip' experience, selecting their preferred ingredients and bringing them back to the table. Each item is cling-wrapped and organised by categories such as vegetables, seafood, and meats, making it easy to choose.

The ingredients are priced according to the colour of the plates: White ($1) for mostly vegetables, Green and Yellow ($3), Orange ($5) for a selection of house-marinated meats, and Red ($8) for premium items.

Right in front of the stall, you'll find a variety of condiments, along with free-flow cabbage and xiao bai cai in these vintage baskets. Live crabs are also available at $10 each, which will be prepared by the staff upon order.

We were pleasantly surprised by the range of fresh ingredients, which came in more substantial portions than we've experienced in other similar hot pot eateries.

Wintermelon Seafood Hotpot 4.2/5

We opted for the Wintermelon Seafood Hotpot ($32) as our base for our meal. We sipped the broth before adding any ingredients and enjoyed how flavourful it was. This base features a carved winter melon centrepiece, filled with prawns and la la clams, surrounded by watermelon cubes. The broth itself had a comforting, well-balanced herbal sweetness married with seafood flavours. I particularly liked how it was not overly salty.

Da Pang offers a variety of other broth bases, including Lala Hotpot ($18/$28), Prawn Hotpot ($18/$28), and Lala & Prawn Hotpot ($22/$32). These bases can be paired with different soups such as Clear Soup, Tomato Soup, Herbal Soup, or their Specialty Congee base. If you're interested in trying the Wintermelon Seafood Hotpot, it's best to call ahead and reserve it at least a day in advance.

Some of our favourite ingredient picks included marinated pork paste, prawn paste, marinated chicken, dumplings, and green bamboo shoots. The clams, prawns, and winter melon that came with our soup base were satisfying, too.

Broth refills are complimentary, and the attentive staff were quick to assist with this. We also learned that instead of breaking down the winter melon, you can leave it boiling whole and dip your ingredients into it. The winter melon is cleverly carved with a tunnel inside, allowing the ingredients to cook thoroughly.

We concluded our meal with a piece of fried egg floss that soaked up the soup!

Although Da Pang is not located in the most accessible location, we had an enjoyable meal and look forward to returning.

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.


Da Pang Congee Base Hot Pot (大胖粥底火锅)
IBIZ Centre
32 Old Toh Tuck Road
#01-17
Singapore 597658
Tel: +65 8788 5812
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Clement (EW Line), Beauty World (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 2pm, 4pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17171). Take bus number 106. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Clementi Bus Interchange (Stop ID 17009). Take bus number 173. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 16 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Beauty World MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop at Beauty World MRT station (Stop ID 42151). Take bus 41. Alight 6 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

4) Alight at Beauty World MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop at Beauty World MRT station (Stop ID 42151). Take bus 173. Alight 7 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 16 minutes. [Map]

Viet Nam Pho @ Clementi West Street 2 - New Hole in the Wall Eatery Servicing Authentic Vietnameses Food at Affordable Price

A new eatery has quietly opened in my neighbourhood, bringing the flavours of Vietnam to the West Coast area. Viet Nam Pho has taken over the space that previously housed a Sarawak Kolo Mee stall, nestled opposite the West Coast Community Club and facing the basketball court. As a fan of Vietnamese cuisine, I was eager to give this small, unassuming spot a try, and I’m glad I did.

Beef Noodle Soup 4.2/5

We kicked off our meal with the Beef Noodle Soup ($7), and the generous portion size immediately struck me for such an affordable price. The bowl came brimming with a variety of beef cuts, which, while not the highest quality, were more than ample in quantity. The rice noodles were silky smooth, and the broth had a well-balanced, comforting, and satisfying sweetness. If you prefer a little heat, I'd recommend adding a spoonful of chopped chillies to give the soup an extra kick.

Salad 4.2/5

The Salad ($5.50) was a pleasant surprise. I wasn't sure what to expect, but it turned out to be a refreshing and satisfying dish. The fresh, crunchy greens were tossed in a delightful sweet and savoury sauce, with the added crunch of fragrant peanuts. The salad was also studded with tender prawns and slices of pork, making it a substantial and delicious starter.

Vietnamese Chee Cheong Fun 3.5/5

One of the more interesting items on the menu was the Vietnamese Chee Cheong Fun ($4.50), something I had never tried before. The dish arrived with plain Chee Cheong Fun topped with crispy fried shallots and accompanied by two types of Vietnamese ham. To enjoy it, you dip the rice rolls into a fish sauce-based dipping sauce that is both sweet and savoury, reminiscent of the sauce served with Vietnamese spring rolls. The flavours were simple yet satisfying, making it a nice change of pace from the more familiar dishes.

Banh Mi 3.8/5

Next up was the Banh Mi ($5.50), a staple of Vietnamese street food. The staff gave the baguette a quick toast before stuffing it with various ingredients. The result was a crispy, delightful sandwich that burst with flavours in every bite. However, my only gripe was that the filling was a bit lacking. While I understand the need to keep costs down, I think the sandwich could benefit from a bit more stuffing—perhaps extra shredded carrot and radish to make it more visually appealing and satisfying. Additionally, offering more variety in the fillings, such as meatballs, grilled chicken, or beef, could give customers more choices.

Rice Vermicelli with Chicken and Rolls 3.5/5

Our final dish was the Rice Vermicelli with Chicken and Rolls ($6). This dry noodle dish is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and to fully enjoy it, you need to pour the accompanying sweet and savoury sauce over the noodles and give it a good toss. The dish came with grilled chicken pieces and crispy fried spring rolls. While it was tasty, the flavours didn't quite reach the heights of the other dishes we tried, but it was still a decent, comforting option.

Viet Nam Pho is a welcome addition to the West Coast neighbourhood, offering authentic Vietnamese dishes at wallet-friendly prices. While there are a few areas where the eatery could improve, particularly in terms of variety and customer service, the flavours are on point, and the value for money is hard to beat. Whether you're a fan of Vietnamese cuisine or simply looking to try something new, Viet Nam Pho is worth a visit. I'm looking forward to returning and trying more of their offerings in the future.


Viet Nam Pho
Blk 721 Clementi West Street 2
#01-120
Singapore 120721
Tel: +65 92247998
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 8pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17179). Take bus number 201. Alight 2 stops later. Cross the road. Turn left and cut through the food centre to block 721. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Lai Yuan Gourmet @ Clementi Ave 3 - Discovering a New and Quality Bowl of Bak Chor Mee in the West

Recently, a new noodle stall, Lai Yuan Gourmet, opened at the coffeeshop in Blk 442 Clementi Ave 3 (facing the hawker centre), replacing the previous noodle stall. Intrigued by the change, I decided to check out the new establishment.

Opting for the Bak Chor Mee ($4.80), I was pleasantly surprised to find that the noodles and ingredients were served separately. The mee pok noodles were perfectly cooked, boasting a delightful al dente texture and tossed in a well-balanced mix of chilli and vinegar.

Bak Chor Mee 4.2/5

In addition to the delicious noodles, the ingredients included thickly cut pork liver, pork slices, minced pork, and pork balls in a flavourful soup. The standout element was undoubtedly the tender and well-marinated pork balls, which were elevated by adding sole fish.

Overall, Lai Yuan Gourmet serves up a commendable bowl of noodles that is definitely worth a visit. I'm pleased to have discovered a quality Bak Chor Mee stall in the West, providing a go-to option whenever the craving strikes.


Lai Yuan Gourmet
Blk 442 Clementi Ave 3
#01-121
Singapore 120442
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: TBC

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

Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee (老王传统福建面) @ Clementi Ave 1 - A Decent Plate of Fried Hokkien Mee In Clementi

Exploring my new neighbourhood has led me to Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee (老王传统福建面), tucked inside a quaint coffeeshop along Clementi Avenue 1. Intrigued by the local buzz surrounding this spot, I decided to try the Hokkien Mee.

Lao Wang caters to different appetites with their Hokkien Mee, available in three sizes: Small ($6), Medium ($9), and Large ($12). Opting for the small portion, I was pleasantly surprised by the generous serving, featuring a delightful mix of squid, prawn, and pork combined with yellow noodles and bee hoon. The menu also offers additional toppings like pork lard, prawns, sambal, or the option to serve it in opel leaf for an extra cost.

Fried Hokkien Mee 3.5/5

The Fried Hokkien Mee I sampled presented a unique take—neither overly dry nor immersed in a prawny broth. However, it lacked the robust flavour profile I typically seek in a stellar plate of Hokkien Mee. The distinct alkaline taste from the yellow noodles was more pronounced than I preferred.

In the grand landscape of Hokkien Mee offerings, Lao Wang's rendition falls just above the average standard. While it might not secure a spot in my top 10, it certainly stands out as a commendable choice for a decent plate of fried Hokkien Mee in the vicinity. For those seeking a satisfying local meal around Clementi, Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee is undoubtedly a "not bad" choice.



Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee
(老王传统福建面)
Blk 420A Clementi Ave 1
Singapore 121420
Tel: +65 97956033
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 11am - 930pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17179). Take bus 189. Alight 5 stops later. Cross the road, walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Hakata Japanese Restaurant @ NeWest - Homely Japanese Comfort In The West

Nestled in NeWest, Hakata Japanese Restaurant welcomes diners to a cosy haven offering affordable Japanese cuisine. With roots tracing back to 1999 at Hong Leong Garden Shopping Centre, this establishment prides itself on a diverse menu featuring traditional Japanese delights, including sashimi, sushi, domburimono, tempura, sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, yakitori, udon, soba, and ramen. The commitment to freshness is evident, with all fish items air-flown four times a week from Japan.

Shishamo Isobe Age 4/5

For a delightful start, the Shishamo Isobe Age ($9) caught my attention. A popular choice among diners, this dish features crispy fried shishamo flavoured with seaweed, providing a unique blend of crunch and seaweed-infused richness, complemented by the burst of shishamo egg roes.

Potato Salad 4/5

A classic favourite, the Potato Salad ($5) offered a creamy medley of mashed potatoes, carrots, and eggs enveloped in mayonnaise. Adding cucumber and tomato refreshed the palate, adding a crisp contrast to the creamy texture.

Buta Shogayaki 3.8/5

Transitioning to the mains, the Buta Shogayaki ($16) stole the spotlight. A comforting ensemble of stir-fried pork with vegetables in ginger sauce, this set included rice, tofu, miso soup, a slice of watermelon, and pickles. The tender pork and the medley of sides provided a substantial and satisfying meal at an excellent value.

Matsu Nigiri Sushi Set 3.5/5

We continued with the Matsu Nigiri Sushi Set ($27), an assortment of 11 sushi types. While it may not compete with the premium offerings of high-end Japanese omakase restaurants, it delivers a good variety and value for money, satisfying Japanese food cravings without breaking the bank.

Hakata Japanese Restaurant has become a neighbourhood favourite, drawing locals with its homely charm and affordable Japanese fare. While it may not aim for the premium spectrum of Japanese cuisine, it excels in providing a diverse and wallet-friendly menu that caters to the masses. For those seeking a comforting Japanese dining experience without the frills, Hakata Japanese Restaurant at NeWest is a reliable choice.


Hakata Japanese Restaurant
NeWest
1 West Coast Drive
#01-93/70
Singapore 128020
Tel: +65 6265 3680
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun, PH: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Take bus number 154 or 201. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Sakaba Igokochi @ NEWest - Transformation from Omakase to Izakaya Concept

Igokochi, nestled in NEWest, has recently undergone a captivating transformation. From its origins as an omakase restaurant, it now embraces the spirited essence of a Tokyo izakaya. Inspired by Shinjuku's bustling back alleys and hidden gems, Igokochi beckons with its izakaya-focused menu and bar.

Peperron Edamame 3/5

Takara MIO Sparkling Rose Sake Limited Edition 300ml

Before delving into the dining experience, we indulged in the Takara MIO Sparkling Rose Sake Limited Edition (300ml), served chilled. Accompanying this refreshing libation was the Peperron Edamame ($7). While the edamame pods were flavoured, the seasoning remained on the surface, sparing the prized beans inside.

Salmon Yukke-Style Carpaccio 4/5

The Salmon Yukke-Style Carpaccio ($13) graced our table next. Thick, luscious salmon slices bathed in a sweet and tangy chef's special sauce. Adorned with ikura, the pearls of umami goodness, it elevated the salmon's rich, fatty flavours.

Beef Tataki with Dashi Ponzu 3.8/5

Beef Tataki with Dashi Ponzu ($16) followed suit, showcasing thinly sliced, seared beef drizzled with a zesty dashi ponzu sauce. Adding green onions and fried garlic provided an aromatic and harmonious finish.

Kombu-marinated Chicken Thigh Steak 3.5/5

The Kombu-Marinated Chicken Thigh Steak ($15) showcased dry-aged chicken marinated in kombu before grilling. The result was a tender, moist, and intensely flavoured chicken. While the distinct chicken flavour might not suit every palate, it was a bold and unique creation.

Pressed Sushi 2.5/5

Despite its creative intent, the Pressed Sushi left us with mixed feelings. We opted for the Scallop Pressed Sushi ($22) adorned with ikura and green onions. Regrettably, the ratio of rice to scallop was skewed, overwhelming the delicate sashimi topping.

Japanese Style Grilled Apple 4/5

We savoured the Japanese Style Grilled Apple ($8), accompanied by red bean, mochi, and vanilla ice cream for dessert. This simple yet delightful dessert offered a sweet conclusion to our meal.

At Igokochi, the transformation from omakase to izakaya has brought forth a medley of flavours inspired by Tokyo's vibrant back alleys. While some dishes soared, others left room for further refinement, promising intriguing culinary journeys to come.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sakaba Igokochi
NEWest
1 West Coast Drive
#01-98/99
Singapore 128020
Tel: +65 6963 9430
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17171). Take bus 154 or 201. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]