Violet Oon Singapore @ Dempsey Hill - Launches Four CNY Set Menus For Intimate Gatherings in an Elegant Setting

For the upcoming Chinese New Year, Violet Oon Singapore at Dempsey introduces festive set menus available exclusively within its private dining rooms. Four specially curated Chinese New Year set menus are available, designed for intimate gatherings in an elegant setting.

VO Fragrant Yu Sheng 5/5

The Prosperity Sharing Set Menu (from S$148++ per person) opens with the VO Fragrant Yu Sheng. I have always enjoyed the addition of kaffir lime leaves in this rendition, and here, their presence was especially generous. The sharp, citrusy fragrance was further elevated by pink ginger flower, while an increased amount of julienned beetroot and the inclusion of ice plant, known for its heightened crunch, added both texture and freshness to the dish.

Hee Peow Soup 5/5

This was followed by an individually served bowl of Hee Peow Soup, a seasonal Peranakan Lunar New Year classic. The comforting broth is slow-simmered using a superior pork and chicken stock, enriched with whole baby abalone, fish maw, sea cucumber, and impressively juicy house-made prawn, crab, fish and pork balls.

Kuey Pie Tee 3/5

Ngoh Hiang 4/5

Starters included Kuay Pie Tee and Ngoh Hiang. Both were well seasoned, with the latter offering a tender bite. The addition of water chestnut provided a pleasant crunch that balanced the richness and meatiness of the filling.

Beef Rendang 4.5/5

For Mains, the slow-braised Beef Rendang featured beef shin braised in spices and kaffir lime leaves, then finished in coconut milk, resulting in fork-tender meat that was both rich and crowd-pleasing.

Ayam Buah Keluak 4.5/5

I particularly enjoyed the equally well-executed Ayam Buah Keluak, notable for its punchy gravy and generous chunks of buah keluak that delivered depth and intensity.

Garam Assam Fish 4.5/5

Garam Assam Fish was another highlight, featuring red snapper in a spicy-sour gravy accented with pineapple and pink ginger flower. The pineapples were thinly sliced, and their fruity tartness made the dish even more appetising.

Udang Goreng Chilli 3/5

Udang Goreng Chilli showcased angka prawns topped with chilli padi and garlic rempah. While flavourful, the dish leaned slightly towards greasy.

Chap Chye 4/5

Chap Chye, braised in a full-bodied prawn bisque that impressed with its deep savouriness, but the cabbage needed a much longer stewing time to soften thoroughly.

Nasi Ulam 5/5

One of my favourite dishes of the meal was the herbaceous Nasi Ulam. Diced prawns were folded into the rice, adding sweetness and textural contrast that complemented the raw, aromatic herbs.

Handmade Perankan Kueh 4/5

Dessert concluded the meal with a thoughtful selection of Handmade Peranakan Kueh, including Ang Ku Kueh, Kueh Kochi and Kueh Ambon. Both the ang ku kueh and kueh ambon stood out for their texture, with the kueh ambon being exceptionally spongy, though the overall sweetness could be toned down slightly.

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.


Violet Oon Singapore
Dempsey Hill
7 Dempsey Road
#01-05
Singapore 249671
Tel: +65 9834 9935
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Nearest MRT: Napier (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to the bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alright 2 stops later. Walk to Dempsey Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes.[Map]

Open Farm Community @ Dempsey - Bringing Its Beloved Weekend Brunch to Diners Every Day of The Week

Brunch has become a daily affair at Open Farm Community at Dempsey. You can now enjoy its once-weekend brunch menu any day of the week, surrounded by the lush greenery of its open farm and edible gardens. Even better, your furry companions are warmly welcomed, as guests who choose to dine alfresco with their pets will enjoy a discount on their bill.

OFC Farm Bread 4/5

Burrata 4/5

For starters, the OFC Farm Bread ($12) features the restaurant’s beloved sourdough and focaccia, served with a subtly flavoured salted butter. We paired it with the Burrata ($28), which whetted my appetite with savoury and meaty San Daniele ham, complemented by the acidity and sweetness of charred grapes and tomato jam, and a satisfying crunch from toasted pine nuts.

Beef Tongue Yakitori 5/5

For something bolder, the Beef Tongue Yakitori was a standout. The Bak Kut Teh marinated beef tongue was expertly prepared, with a slightly charred exterior that complemented its rich flavour. Shredded ginger flowers added freshness and helped balance the gaminess, resulting in a well-rounded dish.

Pulled Pork Benedict 4.5/5

The Brunch and Lunch menu features a lineup of well-loved classics. My favourite brunch item was the Pulled Pork Benedict ($29), a satisfying plate with tender and flavourful pork ragout accompanied by creamy sous vide eggs that enriched every bite with a luxurious mouthfeel. The hollandaise, done espuma style, delivered the same tangy richness in a lighter and airier form, enhancing the dish without the usual heaviness.

Shakshuka 3/5

Avocado Toast 3/5

Shakshuka and Avocado Toast are both presented in bowl form, similar to one another. The former features spiced tomato sauce and feta, while the latter is topped with mashed avocado and tomato salsa. While this format makes for easier eating, it slightly diminishes the essence of the dishes, especially the shakshuka. It would have been much more exciting to have it served hot in a pan with eggs poached directly in the sauce. The flavours leaned mild, with just a faint hint of fennel rather than the expected spice-forward kick. Still, both dishes remained wholesome, anchored by perfectly creamy yolks.

Spanish Omelette 3/5

The Spanish Omelette was given a local twist, topped with a heap of minced meat and mushrooms seasoned like bak chor mee. Though it had a beautifully golden exterior, it resembled more of a potato frittata, with more egg than potato, lacking the creamy and slightly starchy consistency that defines a traditional Spanish omelette made with slow-cooked potatoes.

Buttermilk Pancakes 3.5/5

For something sweet, the Buttermilk Pancakes ($22), served with banana brûlée and ice cream, were delightful, featuring a subtle bounce in texture.

Granola Yoghurt Bowl 2/5

The Granola Yoghurt Bowl ($18), however, was slightly too sweet, with yoghurt that was both thinner and sweeter than ideal. A version with tangier yoghurt and crunchy granola would have provided better contrast and balance.

Beer-Battered Fish & Chips 4/5

From the lunch selections, the Beer-Battered Fish & Chips ($34) impressed with its light, crisp batter encasing flavourful fish, complemented by equally well-executed chips.

Creamy Mushroom Mafaldine Pasta 4/5

The Creamy Mushroom Mafaldine Pasta, made with local mixed mushrooms, stood out for its firm and chewy texture. Meanwhile, the sauce, cheesy and accented with sharp Pecorino Romano, had just the right consistency to coat each ribbon beautifully. 15% off their bill.

Lemon Meringue Pavlova 3.5/5

Deconstructed Tiramisu 4.5/5

For desserts, the Deconstructed Tiramisu ($19) and Lemon Meringue Pavlova ($19) offer two very different experiences. I found the former more memorable, featuring an intense layer of Kahlua-soaked sponge complemented by light, aerated chocolate bites.

What truly stood out for me was the atmosphere at Open Farm Community. The space exudes a relaxed, nature-filled charm that invites one to linger. Offering a 15% discount to those who dine at the spacious alfresco area with their pets is also a thoughtful touch, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to food, nature, community, and sustainability.

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.


Open Farm Community
130E Minden Road
Singapore 248819
Tel: +65 64710306
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 9pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 330pm, 6pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Minden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Torno Subito @ COMO Dempsey - Playful Italian Dining with a Riviera Twist

At Torno Subito, Italian dining takes on a playful new rhythm with refreshed menus that include a revamped à la carte selection, a renewed three-course Formula Lunch, and an updated Riviera Tour tasting experience. Helmed by Executive Chef Alessio Pirozzi and part of renowned chef Massimo Bottura’s culinary family, the Dempsey outpost continues to reinterpret classic Italian flavours through a modern, Riviera-inspired lens.

Our dinner began with complimentary freshly baked bread paired with anchovy butter. It is a comforting trio to warm the stomach before the meal proper. My favourite was the tomato sourdough, with its light tanginess that paired beautifully with the savoury butter.

Alta Marea 3.5/5

The Alta Marea ($98) was a striking platter of raw, cured and smoked seafood, akin to a “seafood charcuterie board.” Unique and rarely seen in restaurants, it offered a range of flavours and textures. The standout for me was the cuttlefish, which had a clean, sweet flavour.

Fichi 4/5

The Fichi Pizza ($38/$58) arrived topped with Fior di Latte cheese, culatello ham, marinated fig, and pecorino foam. The chewy dough base tied the savoury and sweet elements together harmoniously, making each bite a joy.

Tagliatella 4.5/5

The Tagliatella ($48) was the star of the evening. Perfectly cooked traditional egg pasta paired with a bold, richly flavoured hand-chopped Wagyu ragu, one of Massimo Bottura’s favourites. Comforting, indulgent, and deeply satisfying.

Tortellino 4/5

The Tortellino ($48) featured miniature stuffed pasta in a creamy sauce made from 36-month-aged Parmigiano Reggiano. Silky and luxurious, it was reminiscent of cereal in milk, but in the most decadent, cheesy way possible.

Prochetta 4.2/5

Perfect for sharing, the Prochetta ($98) showcased roasted milk-fed suckling pig rolled into a roulade, served with peach compote and Swiss chard. The sweet and bitter notes of the accompaniments perfectly balanced the richness of the meat.

Cocco Bello 4/5

For dessert, the Cocco Bello ($20) offered a refreshing finish with lemon and mint sorbet, foamy coconut, and kaffir lime meringue. Light, sweet, and zesty, it was the perfect dessert after all the richness in the meal.

Tiramisubito 4/5

The Tiramisubito ($22) reinvented tradition in a modern presentation while retaining the classic flavours of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa. Familiar yet novel, each spoonful was comforting and indulgent.

The meal concluded with a thoughtful petit four, a lovely sweet touch that served as a fitting closure to an evening that showcased Torno Subito’s ability to bring playful creativity and Riviera flair to Italian dining in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Torno Subito
26 Dempsey Road
#01-01
Singapore 249686
Tel: +65 6486 1053
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon-Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Take the stairs up to Dempsey Road. Continue taking the stairs up to the hill to block 26. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Ministry of Crab @ Dempsey Hill - Award-Winning Asia’s 50 Best Restaurant From Sri Lankan Seafood Lands in Singapore

Ministry of Crab, proudly featured on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list from 2015 to 2022, has finally opened its doors in Dempsey, Singapore. Founded by celebrated chef Dharshan Munidasa, the Sri Lankan institution is famed for its pristine seafood, particularly the legendary Sri Lankan mud crabs and freshwater prawns, airflown daily and prepared with a clever blend of Japanese, Sri Lankan and Mediterranean influences.

Pure Crab 4.5/5

Our dinner begins with the Pure Crab ($98, Small up to 700g) – arguably the purest way to savour the sweetness of Sri Lankan mud crab. Steamed and then chilled, the crab’s delicate flavours shine through. Served with warm butter, homemade calamansi ponzu and chilli vinegar, the condiments enhance without overshadowing. The style reminds me of our very own Teochew cold crab, but elevated.

Crab Liver Pate 4.2/5

The Crab Liver Pate ($25) is a unique indulgence. The creamy pate, made from crab liver, is rich and umami-packed, perfect to spread on toasted bread. For balance, a drizzle of Kithul Treacle (palm sugar syrup) brings a smoky sweetness that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Kani Tama 4.8/5

A new creation, the Kani Tama is a revelation. Crab roe is gently cooked with Japanese egg and served in its shell, accompanied by rice or bread cushions (we chose the latter). Mixing it all together and dipping the bread cushions reminded us of Singapore’s kaya toast with soft-boiled egg – comforting yet luxurious. Each bite bursts with umami, and a touch of housemade chicken rice chilli sauce or hot sauce takes it to another level.

Garlic Chilli Prawn with Garlic Bread 5/5

The Garlic Chilli Prawn ($45 Regular, 200-250g) completely wowed us. The sauce was so addictive that we had the Garlic Bread ($7) to mop up every last drop. This is a must-try.

Black Pepper Dashi Crab 4.8/5

The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the Black Pepper Dashi Crab ($208-$248, Colossal). Sri Lanka's black pepper has long been revered as the "king of spice," and here it is married with the Japanese culinary philosophy of dashi. Hand-crushed pepper, ground on the traditional Miris Gala stone, gives the sauce its bold, aromatic punch. The result? A refined, deeply flavourful rendition that surpasses even our local black pepper crab.

Shibuya Style French Toast 4/5

The Shibuya Style French Toast ($18) is a decadent end to the savoury courses. Made with a thick slice of Sri Lankan street bread, it’s soft, spongy and indulgent, paired with whipped cream, strawberries and palm sugar syrup for balance.

Coconut Creme Brulee 4.2/5

For dessert, the Coconut Creme Brulee ($15) offers a tropical twist on a classic. Served in a fresh coconut, the custard made with rich coconut milk is silky and smooth, topped with a caramelised sugar crust torched at the table – a lovely, theatrical finish.

In collaboration with Ministry of Crab, make your reservation with the restaurant HERE to enjoy a complimentary Coconut Creme Brulee or show this blog post to the staff.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ministry of Crab
Blk 6 Dempsey Road
Singapore 249683
Tel: +65 8389 0948
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to dempsey road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes.[Map]