Torikizoku @ Vivocity - Japan's #1 Yakitori Chian Opens Its Biggest-Ever Outlet in Singapore

Japan’s popular yakitori chain Torikizoku has officially made its Singapore debut at VivoCity, opening its largest outlet worldwide on 29 May 2026. Spanning an impressive 174 seats across both indoor and al fresco dining areas overlooking the promenade, the space is designed to deliver a lively yet relaxed izakaya experience.

Built on its philosophy of offering quality Japanese fare at accessible prices, Torikizoku keeps things refreshingly simple. All food and non-alcoholic beverages are priced at $3.90++, while kids’ meals and alcoholic drinks are priced at $9.90++. The menu features a mix of grilled skewers, comforting sides, and casual bites, making it an easy spot for gatherings with friends or family.

Chicken Nanban 3.8/5

Starting with the Chicken Nanban ($3.90++), this classic Japanese favourite of karaage paired with tartar sauce delivered a satisfying balance of textures. The chicken was crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy within. The creamy tartar sauce helped to cut through the richness, adding a tangy contrast that lifted the overall flavour profile.

Potato Salad 4/5

The Potato Salad ($3.90++) was a pleasant surprise. Creamy yet not overly heavy, it featured chunks of potato that added a more rustic texture. The addition of bonito flakes added a subtle umami note, elevating what would otherwise be a simple side dish.

Grilled Fluffy Grated Yam 3/5

One of the more unique items on the menu is the Grilled Fluffy Grated Yam ($3.90++). Light and airy with a soft, almost soufflé-like texture, it carried a delicate savoury flavour. While it is meant to complement the skewers as a comforting side, its texture and flavour profile may not appeal to everyone and can be an acquired taste.

Chicken Liver 3/5, Stuffed Bell Pepper Ponzi 3/5, Signature Kizokuyaki Thigh & Leek 3.5/5

Yakitori remains the highlight here, with each plate comprising two skewers priced at $3.90++. Among the selections, the Chicken Liver and Stuffed Bell Pepper with Ponzu were decent, though not particularly outstanding. The liver had a slightly grainy texture, while the stuffed pepper offered a refreshing tang from the ponzu but lacked a stronger flavour punch.

Chicken Liver 3/5, Stuffed Bell Pepper Ponzi 3/5, Signature Kizokuyaki Thigh & Leek 3.5/5

The standout was the Signature Kizokuyaki Thigh & Leek (Sauce), part of the brand’s signature jumbo skewer range. Glazed in Torikizoku’s iconic tare sauce — a recipe refined over more than 40 years — the chicken thigh was juicy and flavourful, with a good balance of sweetness and savouriness. The leek added a mild sweetness without overpowering the meat. Notably, the Kizokuyaki skewers are larger than typical yakitori skewers, making them feel more substantial and better value for money.

Wings 3.8/5

Moving on to the Wings ($3.90++), these were grilled with the bone in, which helped retain moisture and enhance flavour. The meat was tender and juicy, with a lightly crisp exterior. While slightly greasy, it delivered the kind of satisfying richness that makes grilled wings so enjoyable.

Chicken Kamameshi 3.5/5

For something more filling, the Chicken Kamameshi ($3.90++) is a comforting option. Served in a traditional pot and cooked fresh at the table, the dish combines rice, chicken, and vegetables into a hearty one-pot meal. The rice absorbs the flavours of the ingredients as it cooks, resulting in a fragrant and savoury dish. Do note that it requires about 30 minutes of cooking time, so it is best to order this early.

Overall, Torikizoku brings a casual and approachable izakaya concept to Singapore. While the food may not be the most refined or top-tier, the consistent pricing and generous portions make it incredibly accessible. At $3.90++ per dish, it offers a fuss-free dining option where you can sample a variety of items without worrying about the bill. In short, Torikizoku may not serve the best yakitori in town. Still, it delivers solid flavours, a lively atmosphere, and unbeatable value — making it a place you’ll return to for easy, wallet-friendly Japanese dining.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Torikizoku
Vivocity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#01-104, 105
Singapore 098585
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Kott-Don 360 @ Vivocity - Immersive Korean BBQ with Premium Hanwoo and 360-Hour Aged Meats

Kott-Don 360, the Korean BBQ specialist known for its premium wet-aged meats, has officially opened its second outlet at VivoCity on 15 June 2026. Building on the success of its Paya Lebar Quarter location, the new flagship raises the bar with a more immersive dining concept, anchored by a dramatic cave-inspired entrance that leads into a space adorned with traditional Hanok roof elements. The experience feels almost transportive, setting the tone for a meal that celebrates Korean craftsmanship, culture, and meticulous meat preparation.

Founded by the team behind Flower Pig 360, Kott-Don 360 continues its mission to elevate the Korean barbecue experience through expertly aged meats, attentive service, and a thoughtfully curated menu. The VivoCity outlet also introduces exclusive Hanwoo beef selections, making it a destination for those seeking a more refined Korean BBQ experience.

Hanwoo - Rib Finger, Ribeye

Hanwoo - Ribeye 4.2/5

Hanwoo - Rib Finger 4/5

We began with the Hanwoo Beef Set for sharing (from $268 Member Price), featuring prized cuts such as Rib Finger and Ribeye. The Hanwoo Rib Finger stands out for its robust, deeply meaty character. Cut from between the rib bones, it offers a more pronounced chew compared to more tender cuts, delivering a satisfying bite that beef lovers will appreciate. As it grills, the fat renders beautifully, creating a smoky, caramelised crust that amplifies its natural savouriness. Despite its structure, the meat remains juicy, striking a delicate balance between tenderness and resistance.

In contrast, the Hanwoo Ribeye leans towards indulgence. Richly marbled, it delivers a luxurious, buttery umami that coats the palate without feeling cloying. The texture is exceptionally tender, almost melting in the mouth with minimal effort. What impresses most is its clean finish. Despite the high fat content, it avoids the greasy aftertaste sometimes associated with heavily marbled beef, leaving behind a refined, lingering richness that keeps you reaching for more.

Duroc Black Pork - Pork Belly, Marinated Pork Neck and Jeju Black Pork - Pork Neck

Duroc Black Pork - Pork Belly 4.2/5

Duroc Black Pork - Marinated Pork Neck 3.8/5

The pork selections are equally compelling, showcasing different breeds and cuts. The Duroc Black Pork Belly ($29.90) is a highlight, widely regarded as the gold standard for pork due to its superior fat-to-meat ratio. Each slice grills up with crisp edges and a succulent interior, releasing a natural sweetness that is slightly nutty and far more pronounced than that of conventional pork. The marbling ensures the meat self-bastes as it cooks, resulting in a juicy, flavourful bite with a clean, non-gamey finish.

The Duroc Marinated Pork Neck ($33.90) offers a different but equally satisfying experience. The marinade enhances the pork’s inherent sweetness, caramelising over the grill to form a lightly charred, flavour-packed exterior. Unlike the belly, the neck cut provides a firmer, springy texture, delivering a hearty bite that feels substantial without being overly rich. It is well-balanced, making it easy to enjoy throughout the meal.

Jeju Black Pork - Pork Neck 4.5/5

Another standout is the Jeju Black Pork Neck ($33.90), often dubbed the “Wagyu of pork” in Korea. Raised in Jeju’s unique environment, the meat boasts a deeper, more concentrated flavour profile. The higher protein content gives it a pronounced meatiness, while the fat carries a clean, subtly sweet nuttiness. When grilled, the interplay of smoke and rendered fat creates an aromatic complexity that is both bold and refined, elevating it beyond typical pork offerings.

Kimchi Soup 4.2/5

Beyond the grill, the supporting dishes further round out the experience. The Black Pork Kimchi Soup ($18.90++) is a comforting staple, combining Duroc pork, kimchi, tofu, and spring onions in a hearty broth. The balance of spice, acidity, and richness makes it especially satisfying, and the refillable portions ensure it remains a warm, constant companion throughout the meal.

Cheese Steamed Egg 4.2/5

The Cheese Steamed Egg is soft and pillowy, almost cloud-like in texture. Topped with a layer of torched cheese, it gains added depth of flavour, with the creamy, slightly smoky notes of the cheese enhancing the delicate egg custard beneath.

Fish Cake Soup 4.2/5

A unique addition is the Kettle-Pot Fish Cake Soup (Non-Member: $55++; Member: $45++), served in a traditional kettle. Featuring imported Busan fish cake skewers in a broth brewed from radish, leek, and anchovy stock, it is both visually intriguing and deeply comforting. The kettle presentation allows diners to pour the soup themselves, adding an interactive touch to the dining experience.

Seafood Pancake 4/5

The Seafood Pancake (Non-Member: $32++; Member: $28++) impresses with its crisp exterior and well-balanced composition. It is not overly doughy, allowing the flavours of the seafood to shine through without being masked by excess batter. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by the natural sweetness of the seafood.

Kimchi Cold Noodle 4/5

For something lighter, the Cold Kimchi Noodle (Non-Member: $16.90++; Member: $14.90++) provides a refreshing contrast. The chilled fermented kimchi broth is tangy and invigorating, pairing well with the soft noodles, cucumber, seaweed, and boiled egg. It’s a welcoming, refreshing dish amid the richness of the grilled meats.

Beef Tartare Bibimbap 4.2/5

The Beef Tartare Bibimbap (Non-Member: $31++; Member: $26++) is another noteworthy dish. Featuring wagyu beef tartare, shredded egg, seaweed, and water spinach, it is brought together with a pasteurised egg yolk and ssamjang. The result is a rich, savoury bowl with layers of texture and flavour, in which the beef’s umami is complemented by the sauce’s nutty, slightly sweet notes.

To celebrate its opening, Kott-Don 360 is offering a limited-time promotion. Diners who sign up for a complimentary membership can enjoy a free 150g serving of pork belly with a minimum spend, limited to one redemption per bill while stocks last.

Kott-Don 360 at VivoCity is more than just another Korean BBQ spot. With its immersive setting, premium ingredients, and attention to detail, it delivers a dining experience that goes beyond the grill. Whether you are drawn by the exclusivity of Hanwoo beef or the depth of flavour in its carefully sourced pork, Kott-Don 360 at VivoCity is set to become a compelling destination for Korean barbecue enthusiasts.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kott-Don 360
VivoCity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#02-123/124
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 9003 9688
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Quan Hotpot @ Hotel Michael - A Refined Five Elements Hotpot Experience

Located at Resorts World Sentosa, Quan Hotpot is a contemporary dining concept that offers a refined take on the traditional hotpot experience. Situated within Hotel Michael (Level 1), the restaurant emphasises balanced flavours and sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, guided by the Chinese philosophy of the Five Elements — sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, and salty.

Departing from the communal pot format, Quan Hotpot serves its broths individually, allowing diners to tailor their experience from the outset. The selection is diverse, ranging from the rich Signature Singapore Laksa Broth to the comforting Traditional Congee Broth and Collagen Herbal Chicken Broth. Those who prefer bolder flavours can opt for the Classic Sichuan Mala Broth, while the Heritage Suan Cai Broth offers a tangy, fermented profile.

I went with the Heritage Suan Cai Broth, which delivered a well-balanced tanginess that was both appetising and comforting. The acidity of the preserved mustard greens was gentle yet distinct, lifting the flavours of the accompanying ingredients without overpowering them. It proved to be a versatile base that grew more flavourful as the meal progressed.

Once the broth is selected, the experience becomes interactive with a selection of condiments presented tableside. Diners can mix their own dipping sauces to suit their preferences, adding another layer of personalisation to the meal.

The Signature 4 Element Hotpot Set Menu ($68 per person) offers a comprehensive spread, covering premium meats, seafood, vegetables, housemade items, noodles, and dessert. It is a well-curated selection that balances variety and quality.

The Premium Meat Selection includes Organic Australian Pork Belly, US “CAB” Beef Short Plates, Kampong Chicken Thigh, and Sliced Salt Grass-Fed Australian Lamb Shoulder. Each was thinly sliced for quick cooking, with the beef short plate standing out for its tenderness and marbling, while the pork belly offered a satisfying balance of fat and lean.

The Premium Fresh Seafood Selection features Live Tiger Prawns, Hokkaido Scallops, Fish Slices, and Live Korean Abalone. The prawns were firm and naturally sweet, while the scallops were plump and delicate. The abalone added a touch of indulgence, with a tender bite and subtle briny sweetness.

The Vegetable Selection was equally satisfying, comprising Bok Choy, Napa Cabbage, Spinach, King Oyster and Shiitake Mushrooms, along with Beancurd Roll, Silken Tofu, Potato, and Sweet Corn. Fresh and vibrant, the assortment provided a good balance to the meal’s richer components.

A highlight in both presentation and texture is the 5 Elements Fish Noodles, served in striking hues of orange, purple, yellow, black, and green. Beyond their visual appeal, the noodles offered a delightful chew and springy bite, making them a fun addition to the hotpot.

The dessert was less impressive. The Flamed Meringue Ice Cream arrived with a theatrical flourish but leaned overly sweet, overshadowing the ice cream beneath. The Fresh Fruit platter provided a lighter finish, though the fruits lacked the sweetness expected to round off the meal on a stronger note.

Overall, Quan Hotpot delivers a polished and thoughtfully executed hotpot experience. Its focus on individual broths, quality ingredients, and a balanced flavour philosophy sets it apart, making it a compelling option for those seeking a more refined take on this comforting dining tradition.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Quan Hotpot
Hotel Michael
Level 1
8 Sentosa Gateway
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6577 6665
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 5pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Vivocity Level 3 to Vivocity Monorail Station. Take the Monorail to Sentosa. Alight at Resorts World Station. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 15 minutes. [Map]

Alijiang (阿里疆) @ VivoCity - Bringing The Bold, Rustic Flavours of Xinjiang to Singapore

Located on the third floor of VivoCity, Alijiang (阿里疆) brings the bold, rustic flavours of Xinjiang cuisine to the southern coast of Singapore. Since first opening in February 2019, the restaurant has built a steady following over the past seven years, offering diners a vibrant taste of the Silk Road in an upbeat yet polished setting, complete with views overlooking the Sentosa gateway.

Uae Salad 阿联酋沙拉 (Green Salad with Secret Sauce) 4/5

We began the meal with the UAE Salad 阿联酋沙拉 ($29.80), a refreshing cold appetiser that provides a welcome contrast to the robust, spice-laden dishes typical of Xinjiang cuisine. A medley of greens, avocado, and figs is brought together by a savoury, tangy vinaigrette with a gentle sweetness, making it both appetising and well-balanced.

Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 4/5

Next, the Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 ($3.20/pc) offered a lighter alternative to the restaurant’s signature lamb skewers. Made with succulent chunks of chicken thigh, the skewers are grilled over high heat, achieving a smoky, lightly charred exterior while retaining a juicy interior. The seasoning carries the hallmark bold spices of Northwestern Chinese cuisine but remains approachable even for those less accustomed to stronger flavours.

Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 4.5/5

A highlight of the evening was the Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 ($38/$58), a comforting dish that showcases the Central Asian influence on Xinjiang cooking. The brisket is slow-cooked until fork-tender, with just enough fat to enrich the dish. The tomato-based gravy is thick and robust, offering a natural balance of acidity and sweetness. Presented in a pastry-sealed vase, the dish is theatrically poured into a pot at the table, with the pastry serving as a delightful accompaniment to soak up the luscious sauce.

Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 4.5/5

Equally impressive was the Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 ($28.80), arguably the most iconic dish of Xinjiang cuisine. This hearty communal plate features bone-in chicken pieces braised in a deeply aromatic sauce, alongside chunks of potato that have beautifully absorbed the rich flavours. Beneath the dish lie wide, hand-pulled belt noodles, prized for their chewy “QQ” texture. Designed to soak up the spicy gravy, the noodles are an essential and satisfying component of the dish.

Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot 3.8/5

For dessert, the Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot 酸奶凉糕 ($7.80/pax) offered an interesting interplay of textures. The house-made yoghurt is thicker and tangier than usual, paired with chewy glutinous rice pearls that lend a mochi-like bite. A sweet apricot sauce ties the elements together with a light floral sweetness.

Homemade Vrum Yoghurt 5/5

However, the true standout was the Homemade Vrum Yoghurt 自制奶皮子酸奶 ($4.80). Exceptionally thick and creamy, it boasts a custard-like consistency with a pronounced tangy profile. Made in limited quantities daily, it is highly sought after and often sells out — a testament to its popularity and quality.

Alijiang at VivoCity delivers a distinctive dining experience that highlights the rich culinary heritage of Xinjiang. From smoky skewers to hearty stews and unique dairy-based desserts, the menu captures the essence of Silk Road flavours while remaining accessible to the local palate. It is a compelling destination for those looking to explore a different facet of Chinese cuisine beyond the familiar.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Alijiang (阿里疆)
VivoCity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#03-11
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 62524979
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Website
Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]