Magpie @ Eng Hoon Street (Tiong Bahru) - Borderless Soul Food with Punchy Flavours and Playful Creativity

Magpie at Eng Hoon Street offers borderless soul food by New Zealand-born chef-owner Eliot Thomas. It’s a place that embraces being unconventionally familiar and unapologetically bold. The philosophy here is simple – come as you are and celebrate life’s moments over aggressively delicious shared plates, a kickass curation of booze, and the irresistible allure of music.

The menu is refreshed regularly, but when I visited, it was categorised into four sections – Snacks, Small Plates, Big Plates and Dessert. Each dish felt like a flavour bomb, and one common thread tied them together: a zesty, tangy punch that lingered in almost every bite.

Fresh Tandoor Bread 3.5.5

We started with the Fresh Tandoor Bread ($12) glazed with Magpie’s butter. The bread was delightfully chewy, but what truly elevated it was Nikki’s Special Chilli. Think of it as Magpie’s version of Lao Gan Ma – robust, spicy, and addictively savoury, the kind of condiment that makes everything taste better.

Prawn Tostada 4/5

The Prawn Tostada ($30) was next, with a thick prawn paste patty sandwiched between two crispy tortilla bases. The tostada was generously drenched in a rich, tangy tomato-based sauce, creating a textural contrast of crunch, tenderness, and saucy brightness.

Kokoda Ceviche 4/5

A standout was the Kokoda Ceviche ($29), a traditional Fijian dish. Unlike Peruvian ceviche that typically uses tiger milk, this version brought together passionfruit, coconut, and avocado. The result was tropical, punchy, and refreshing, pairing beautifully with the delicate slices of fish.

Cumin Lamb Ribs 4.2/5

My favourite of the night was the Cumin Lamb Ribs ($36 for 4pc). The meat fell off the bone effortlessly, tender and juicy, enhanced by a bold aji amarillo sauce and fresh coriander. This was comfort food reimagined with a fiery kick and layered complexity.

Lebanese 7 Spice Chicken 3.8/5

For the main, the Lebanese 7 Spice Chicken ($52) delivered a hearty plate brimming with aromatics. The blend of spices gave depth and warmth, balanced by pistachio yoghurt, pomegranate, and mint for freshness and tang. It was a dish that showcased both richness and restraint in the right proportions.

Magpie is not about subtlety – it’s about vibrancy, boldness, and soul. Every dish we tried had that unmistakable zesty finish, making it a dining experience that stays memorable. If you enjoy food that excites the palate with punchy flavours and playful creativity, Magpie should definitely be on your radar.


Magpie
Blk 57 Eng Hoon Street
#01-88
Singapore 160057
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Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Thu: 530pm - 930pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 930pm
(Closed on Mon & Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk straight down Zion Road. Walk to traffic junction of Zion Road and Tiong Bahru Road. Cross the road and walk to Seng Poh Road. Walk down Seng Poh Road. Turn left onto Eng Hoon Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Ah Pui Teochew Porridge Buffet @ Four Points by Sheraton Singapore Riverview - Savour The Comforting Flavours Of Home-Cooked Fare

In conjunction with Singapore's 60th birthday this year, Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Riverview has launched a much-loved dining concept – the Ah Pui Teochew Porridge Buffet. Diners can now enjoy this local tradition at the hotel's Four Points Eatery, which has recently extended its service to weekends. Executive Chef Anthony has curated a line-up of home-cooked fare, featuring classic porridge options like Sweet Potato Porridge and Plain Teochew Porridge, accompanied by a spread of over 20 heritage dishes and condiments.

Teochew Braised Duck

The standouts and crowd favourites are the braised and steamed items, such as Teochew-style Steamed Seabass Fillet, Teochew Braised Duck and Braised Pork Belly.

Seabass Fillet

Braised Pork Belly

I enjoyed both the Seabass Fillet and Braised Pork Belly. The fish was flaky and tender, and the pork belly slices had a good ratio of fats and meat, which deeply satisfied. As for the duck, while the meat was succulent, some came across slightly gamey.

Prawn Paste Chicken Wings

Deep-Fried Fermented Pork

Beyond the classics, moreish treats include Deep-Fried Fermented Pork, Prawn Paste Chicken Wings, and Steamed Otah. The Deep-Fried Fermented Pork impressed with its savoury crust and unctuous meat, sliced into bite-sized pieces for the best experience.

Otah

The Steamed Otah was a delight, featuring chunks of fish meat and a well-seasoned coconut paste.

Chai Po Omelette

Braised Pork Trotter

Other dishes that exude the warmth of home-cooked comfort include Braised Pork Trotter, Curry Chicken, Chai Po Omelette, Soy Sauce Eggs, Braised Tau Pok, and Tau Kee. I adored the Chai Po Omelette, which was done with the right thickness and packed full of the umami Chai Po flavour.

Mui Choy

One particular dish that stood out for me was the Mui Choy, simmered to utmost tenderness with well-balanced flavours.

Condiments

Along the condiments counter, you'll find all the flavours that build a sumptuous bowl of porridge – from Salted Egg, XO Shrimp Sauce, and Teochew Bean Paste to Pickled Cai Xin, Pickled Cucumber, and Fermented Beancurd.

Nyonya Kueh

Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Ginger Soup

Desserts are simple yet satisfying. I ended my afternoon with a comforting bowl of Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Ginger Soup and an assortment of Nyonya Kueh. The rice dumplings were plump and chewy with black sesame. I only managed to grab two morsels before they were all snapped out! Same for the kueh, bear in mind that they are of limited quantity too.

The menu is rotated regularly. Although beverages require an additional top-up, the Ah Pui Teochew Porridge Buffet offers a warm, homely dining experience at the spacious Four Points Eatery, which overlooks the idyllic Singapore River.

Pricing
Monday to Thursday: S$21.80++ per adult | S$15.80++ per child (aged 6y – 12y)
Friday to Sunday & Public Holidays: S$24.80++ per adult | S$18.80++ per child (aged 6 – 12y)

Special Offer
For a limited time, enjoy 20% off the Ah Pui Teochew Porridge Buffet. Book directly via their official reservation platform with the promo code “APTP20”.
Terms and conditions apply. Reservation Advance reservations of at least one day prior required.
Call +65 6349 4872 or WhatsApp +65 9837 3635 Email at eatery@fourpointssingaporeriverview.com

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.


Four Points Eatery
Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Riverview
1st Storey
382 Havelock Road
Singapore 169629
Tel: +65 63494872
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Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock Road MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight down Havelock Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Carnaby @ The Quayside - Modern British Diner Paying Homage to Britsh Classics With a Contemporary Twist

Carnaby at The Quayside is a modern British diner helmed by Chef Adam Penney, formerly of Three Buns. It's no surprise that the restaurant has already earned a solid reputation, especially for its exceptional burgers. The menu pays homage to British classics with a contemporary twist, featuring a hearty Weekend and Sunday Roast menu that's perfect for leisurely indulgence.

Woodfired Fish Head 4.5/5

We began our meal with a limited-time special Woodfired Fish Head ($22), served with a Watermelon Chilli Butter Sauce. While it initially appeared heavily coated in sauce, the flavours were impressively balanced. The sauce delivered a fruity sweetness, gentle heat, and buttery richness that complemented the fish beautifully. Expertly grilled, the fishhead was polished clean down to the last crevice.

Welsh Rarebit 4.5/5

Next came the Welsh Rarebit ($18), it is a dish with roots tracing back to the 1700s. Traditionally featuring a savoury cheese sauce over toast, Carnaby's take was a decadent spread of Westcombe Cheddar atop softened leeks on beef fat-toasted sourdough. The leeks were buttery and tender, soaking in the fats and flavours of the melted cheese. The addition of beef fat added depth of flavour to the crusty toast, bringing all the elements together in one indulgent, satisfying bite.

Woodfired Argentinian Grass-Fed Angus Todos Ribeye Steak 4.5/5

Having previously tasted Carnaby's impressive Irish Angus Beef Short Ribs during their "A Taste of Ireland" showcase, I opted for the Woodfired Argentinian Grass-Fed Angus Todos Ribeye Steak, 300g ($59). It did not disappoint. The steak was well-trimmed, evenly cooked to a juicy medium-rare, and full of flavour. A sharp horseradish accompaniment added a bright, acidic tang that perfectly complemented the richness of the beef. Unfortunately, the accompanying chips were a letdown. It was slightly dry and overly salty.

Beer Battered Fish & Chips 4/5

The Beer Battered Fish & Chips ($37), another signature, was a standout. The fish was meaty and flavourful, encased in a light, crisp batter. A particularly complex tartare sauce elevated the dish, and the rustic Mushy Peas was a personal highlight, earthy and textural rather than overly buttery. Again, the chips fell short.

Sticky Toffee Date Pudding 5/5

Dessert was phenomenal. The Sticky Toffee Date Pudding ($16), served with butterscotch sauce and a scoop of house-made vanilla ice cream, was nothing short of divine. Soft, spongy, and soaked in caramel richness, the pudding was elevated further by a finishing touch of buttery crumbles.

To complement our meal, we had two refreshing cocktails. The Toreador ($21) featuring Arette Blanco Tequila and London Calling ($21) made with Jin Jiji Darjeeling Gin. Both were well-crafted and paired nicely with the dishes.

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.


Carnaby
The Quayside
60 Robertson Quay
#01-01
Singapore 238252
Tel: +65 8890 7843
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line), Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue: 5pm - 10pm Wed-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 10pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop opposite State Courts (Stop ID 06171). Take bus number 51 or 186. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road and walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk towards the river. At the river, turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to bus stop opposite Holiday Inn Atrium Hotel (Stop ID 06149). Take bus number 51, 64, 123 or 186. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Red House Seafood @ Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel - CNY 2025 Menus and New Dishes

Celebrate this Lunar New Year at Red House Seafood at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore with their specially curated CNY Set Menus and exciting new dishes.

Prosperity Abalone and Coral Seaweed Yu Sheng 4/5

The Prosperity Abalone and Coral Seaweed Yu Sheng is a perennial favourite among regulars. It is loved for its unique crunch, which comes from the addition of coral seaweed, adding a refreshing twist to this classic dish.

Jackfruit Salad 5/5

To start, we indulged in a delightful array of new side dishes. The Jackfruit Salad stood out with its vibrant citrusy flavours, beautifully balanced by the tangy Buah Kedongdong Sauce.

Salted Egg Tempeh 4/5

Crispy Baby Squid 4/5

Both the Salted Egg Tempeh and Crispy Baby Squid offered savoury, addictive bites.

Grilled Marinated Squid 4/5

Meanwhile, the Grilled Marinated Squid impressed with its tender texture and subtle smokiness from the grill that elevated its flavour.

Steamed Giant Grouper Tail with Bentong Ginger 4.5/5

A signature highlight is the Steamed Giant Grouper Tail with Bentong Ginger, a speciality of Red House Seafood. The restaurant uniquely offers different cuts of the giant grouper, akin to steak cuts. This particular dish featured tender, firm meat with a gelatinous skin. The bentong ginger, known for its extra punchy aroma, beautifully complemented the robust flavours of the fish.

Lemongrass and Jasmine Tea Smoked Chicken 5/5

Another standout was the Lemongrass and Jasmine Tea Smoked Chicken. The meat was tender, offering a flavour profile reminiscent of sweet soy sauce chicken but elevated by the subtle, aromatic notes of lemongrass and jasmine.

Braised Sea Cucumber with Shiitake Mushroom and Duo Cauliflower 4/5

Braised Sea Cucumber with Shiitake Mushroom and Duo Cauliflower was more aesthetically pleasing than usual. The use of Yellow and Purple Cauliflower added a pop of colour to the dish. The sauce had a savoury depth of flavour that aptly complemented the braised sea cucumber.

Glutinous Rice Chicken Roll with Quinoa and Wax Meat 4.5/5

The Glutinous Rice Chicken Roll with Quinoa and Wax Meat showcased the culinary team's expertise. The chicken was skillfully processed into a paste to encase a flavourful mixture of glutinous rice, quinoa, and wax meat, then shaped into an elegant roulade with the chicken's skin. The incorporation of quinoa lightened the dish while making it more nutritious, a thoughtful twist on the traditional version.

Signature Chilli Crab 4.5/5

No visit would be complete without the Signature Chilli Crab, served with adorable crab-shaped mantou. The sauce struck the perfect balance of sweet and mildly spicy flavours, while the mantou was golden crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside — ideal for soaking up every last bit of the sauce.

Crispy Bubur Cha Cha 4.5/5

Purple Glutinous Rice Cake 4.5/5

For desserts, the Crispy Bubur Cha Cha offered a creative and delightful spin on the traditional dish. The crispy sweet potato strips provided an enjoyable crunch, complementing the soft sweet potato cubes and the creamy yam coconut base. The Purple Glutinous Rice Cake was another highlight, offering a healthier and aromatic take on traditional Nian Gao. The earthy flavour of the purple glutinous rice and the fragrant shredded coconut boosted an additional texture and aroma to the festive treat.

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.


Red House Seafood
Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore
392 Havelock Road
Level 2
Singapore 169663
Tel: +65 67357666
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Nearest MRT:

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Turn left and walk to traffic junction of Havelock Road and Kim Seng Road. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Kim Seng Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant @ Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium - Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Culinary Indulgence

Usher in the Year of the Snake at Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant at Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium with a delightful selection of festive takeaways, available from 1 December 2024, and opulent set menus for dining in, starting 3 January 2025.

Sliced 2-Head Abalone Yu Sheng 4.5/5

The festive takeaways include the luxurious Sliced 2-Head Abalone Yu Sheng, which pairs tender, premium two-head abalone with a vibrant medley of shredded vegetables. Served with their signature zesty plum sauce, the yu sheng delivers a delectable balance of flavours and textures, offering a refreshing and auspicious start to the meal.

Radish Cake with Preserved Meat 3.5/5

The Radish Cake with Preserved Meat ($62) exuded a sense of homely comfort, offering a nostalgic and satisfying bite. It makes an ideal addition to any reunion meal enjoyed in the warmth of your home.

Roast Suckling Pig Stuffed with Glutinous Rice and Preserved Meat 3/5

The roast meat offerings include Roast Suckling Pig Stuffed with Glutinous Rice and Preserved Meat, which requires a one-day advance order. The skin was beautifully caramelised, and crispy, but the meat leaned slightly towards the tougher side. The glutinous rice with preserved meat was flavourful and had a hearty bite.

Treasure Duck Whole 5/5

The Treasure Duck Whole is another festive highlight. It features a glistening, well-stuffed duck complemented with premium ingredients like sea cucumber, tendons, mushrooms, and dried oysters. The duck itself is fork-tender and light on the palate, ideal for such a celebratory feast.

Sautéed Prawn, Sliced Conch, and Mushroom in X.O. Sauce 4/5

For those dining in, the banquet menu starts at $768++ for six and includes an array of sumptuous dishes. The Sautéed Prawn, Sliced Conch, and Mushroom in X.O. Sauce stood out with its combination of succulent prawns, tender conch, and mushrooms, enhanced by the crunch of sliced asparagus.

Double-Boiled Sea Whelk Chicken Soup 4/5

The Double-Boiled Sea Whelk Chicken Soup with Morel Mushrooms and Bird's Nest added a luxurious and nourishing touch to the meal, with the bird's nest enhancing its indulgent appeal.

Xin Cuisine's Chinese New Year takeaways are available for order from 1 December 2024 to 9 February 2025 through our e-shop (holidayinnatrium.oddle.me), with collection or delivery from 3 January to 12 February 2025. Order by 31 December 2024 to enjoy an exclusive 15% early bird discount.

IHG One Rewards Dining Privileges IHG One Rewards members dining at Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant or ordering from the takeaway menu will receive a 25% off return voucher.

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.


Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant
Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium
Level 4
317 Outram Road
Singapore 169075
Contact: +65 31382531
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Nearest MRT: Havelock Road (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm
Tue: 1130am - 3pm
Wed-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 1pm, 115pm - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]