Shiokoji Tonkatsu Keisuke @ Paya Lebar Square - Unique Tuna and Salmon Rare Tonkatsu

Ramen Champion Mr Keisuke Takeda, known for its multiple ramen concepts in Singapore, has launched first-of-its-kind Tonkatsu dining for health-conscious diners. The new concept, Shiokoji Tonkatsu Keisuke, is located at Paya Lebar Square incorporating a mini salad bar and sauces for both rice and katsu.

Most tonkatsu restaurants come with free flow of cabbage, and Shiokoji Tonkatsu Keisuke has brought it a notch up with the mini salad bar, giving diners more varieties. On top of the black vinegar and olive oil dressing, there will be four other seasonal salad dressings each day to pair with the salad.

Unlike other tonkatsu restaurants, diners can create their own blend of Tonkatsu sauce from a spread of over 10 different sauce bases. It is like those hot pot places whereby diners can mix and match their own dipping sauce. Shiokoji Tonkatsu Keisuke aims to cater to different taste profile and create a different experience for diners.

Shiokoji Pork Loin Katsu Set 4/5

Inevitable I have to order the classic Shiokoji Pork Loin Katsu Set ($16.90  for 120g / $19.90 for 200g) to check out whether it is the real deal. Every tonkatsu set meal here comes with a fried half-boiled egg, rice, miso soup and Japanese pickles. The restaurant also positioned itself in serving a healthier version of tonkatsu, thanks to the state-of-the-art fryers with Water Molecule Control technology. Apparently, 50% less oil is absorbed into the meat during the frying process as compared to tradition deep-frying methods. I would say taste the texture are not comprised in the new method of cooking,

Rolled Pork & Vegetables Tonkatsu 4.2/5

Compared to the pork loin, I would prefer the Rolled Pork & Vegetables Tonkatsu. The pork is more tender due to the used of layered pork, rolled up. The mixed and match concept allows the diner to choose up to five vegetables of their choice, from over twenty different vegetables. This also gives the tonkatsu an additional crunchy texture.

Tuna Rare Katsu Set 4/5

Great news for pescatarian. Now you can also enjoy tonkatsu at Shiokoji Tonkatsu Keisuke with Mr Keisuke new creations - Tuna Rare Katsu Set ($19.90) and Salmon Rare Katsu Set ($17.90). Uniquely, the fish is still soft and rare on the inside while the outside is crunchy.

Assorted Seafood Katsu Set 4.2/5

If you have difficulty making a decision what to order, I would recommend the Assorted Seafood Katsu Set ($20.90), which you get a bit of everything.

It is incredible to see Mr Keisuke expanding its food empire in Singapore with yet another new concept into his group of restaurants. Instead of just introducing the classic tonkatsu to Singaporean, he also gives it a healthier take with a new experience to enjoy the tonkatsu.

Note: this is an invited tasting.


Shiokoji Tonkatsu Keisuke
Paya Lebar Square
60 Paya Lebar Road
#01-02/03
Singapore 409051
Tel: +65 62143345
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit A or E. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Donburi King @ Paya Lebar Quarter - Premium Dons With A Trove of Ocean Treasures Air-Flown From Japan

Fans of Japanese donburi rejoice, as you can now have your cravings fixed at Donburi King. This is the latest concept by S.H.E Global Group which specialises in authentic Japanese donburi with an extensive menu featuring 14 meticulously crafted seafood and meat selections as well as delicious appetisers, ramen, and Japanese hot dishes.

Situated in the newly opened Paya Lebar Quarter, the joint houses an open kitchen built in an 18-seater intimate setting, where customers can witness the preparation of each don, made with the freshest air-flown sashimi and premium selections of meat.

Donburi King Signature Kaisen Don 4.5/5

The limelight is undoubtedly the seafood-loaded bowl of goodness, Donburi King Signature Kaisen Don ($35.50). The overflowing exquisite ingredients consist of 9 different sashimi such as the Salmon, Uni, Hotate (scallop), Akaebi (wild-caught red shrimp), Tako (octopus), Ika (squid), Ikura, Tobiko, and oysters served with Nori seaweed, Tamago (omelette), Gari (marinated ginger), and Wasabi.

Spicy Mayomentai Don 4/5

The Spicy Mayomentai Don ($22.80) features thick slices of salmon sashimi and akaebi smothered in a lusciously creamy mentaiko sauce, and blow-torched for a smoky umami flavour. It comes served with Tamago (omelette), Takuan (pickled radish), Gari (marinated ginger), and Wasabi perched atop vinegared sushi rice.

Whole Unagi Don 4.2/5

Indulge in generous slabs of grilled unagi chunks from the Whole Unagi Don ($22.80). The unagi is grilled to perfection with a melt-in-your-mouth consistency and is served with Tamago (omelette) and Takuan (pickled radish).

Fried Oysters 4/5

If that's not enough, go for their selection of sides such as the Fried Oyster ($3 for 3pc). Deep-fried to crisp golden perfection, the oysters carries a creamy and slightly chewy texture.

The fresh flavourful dons at Donburi King promises sheer luxe and indulgence. Other donburi options include the Ootoro Don ($35.50) available in limited quantity daily based on seasonal availability, the Hotate with Ikura Don ($28.80) or the Aburi Salmon Belly with Ikura Don ($23).

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Donburi King
Paya Lebar Quarter
10 Paya Lebar Road
#03-26
Singapore 409057
Tel: +65 66116657
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun & PH: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Makino @ Paya Lebar Quarter - New Japanese Dining And Shabu Shabu Hotpot Concept

Nestled within the new Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ) mall, just next to Paya Lebar MRT station, Makino is the first shabu shabu concept launched by Asahi Group, where you can savour fresh seafood, meat and vegetables all cooked to your preference in a fragrant stock permeated broth.

Choose from their variety of special Japanese soup bases such as the spicy Tsurai Miso Soup, Mentaiko Soup, Kinoko Soup and Tonkotsu Soup laden with rich flavours.

Kickstart the meal with their popular Royal Milk Tea with Azuki Beans ($5.80). Instead of the usual boba pearls, azuki beans are used as toppings which adds a subtle sweetness to the drink. We found the Citrus Fruit with Homemade Barley drink ($5.80) to be quite an interesting combination as well, with an additional zesty touch to the usual barley flavour.

With quality ingredients and an extensive menu that features all types of seafood, meat and vegetables, we had a good mix of everything from the Ebi Shinjo (Makino special minced prawn), Tori Menchi (minced fresh chicken thigh with chicken soft bone), Reito Tofu and Kyabetsu cabbage to the Zuwai Kani (Japanese snow crab legs).

I actually like to have the Uzura Tamago (quail eggs) served cold, but a dip into the flavoursome boiling pot rendered the yolk all melty and gooey, with a delicate pork bone flavour added to it.

For the meat lovers, go for the Karubi US short ribs ($16.80) and the Butakara Kurobuta Pork Collar ($12). We loved the Karubi for its well-balanced flavours and marbling. The thinly sliced meat has a fast cooking time in the steaming hot broth and just melts in your mouth instantaneously. The Butakara is also rich in flavours while possessing a remarkable melt-in-your-mouth texture.

If that's not enough to satiate your hunger, load up on the carbs with their noodles selection such as the Ramen ($6.80), Gyo Somen ($9.50), Inaniwa Udon ($6.80), and Cha Soba ($6.80).

Besides the shabu shabu option, the menu also offers a plethora of appetising popular Japanese dishes. If shabu shabu is not your thing, go for their range of ala carte donburis, tempura, sushi and sashimi instead.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Makino
Paya Lebar Quarter
10 Paya Lebar Road
#03-28/29
Singapore 409057
Website
Tel: +65 60722770
Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Aik Kee Haslet Soup @ Geylang East Centre Food Centre - One Of My Go To Places For Pig's Organ Soup

I am not sure about you, but I am a big fan of pig's organ soup. Besides the tangy, peppery soup, it comes with a variety of ingredients. One of my favourites pig's organ soup stall is Aik Kee Haslet Soup at Geylang East Centre Food Centre.

Pig's Organ Soup 4.2/5

The Pig's Organ Soup here ranges from $4.50 to $7. I have the $5.50 portion which comes with thick slices of pork belly, pig's stomach, pig's intestine, pig's liver, pork balls and salted vegetables. I have come across many stalls that are quite stingy in the portion but not at Aik Kee. You can tell from the picture itself. All this will go to waste, if not for the tangy and peppery soup that is robust and packed with depth.

Ngor Hiang 3.5/5

Besides the pig's organ soup, one can order the Ngor Hiang ($1.50 each) to complete the meal. The beancurd skin is deep fried to golden brown with enjoyable crispiness on the exterior. Unfortunately, I find it slightly on the salty side.

Aik Kee Haslet Soup may not be as well known compared to the other more popular stalls, but in my opinion, it is on par or as good. It has been one of my go-to stalls whenever I have a craving for pig's organ soup.


Aik Kee Haslet Soup
Blk 117 Aljunied Ave 2
#01-56
Singapore 380117
Nearest MRT: Aljunied (EW Line), Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 930am - 830pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk towards Aljunied Road. Take the overhead bridge. Cross the road and walk to bus stop opposite Aljunied MRT station (Stop ID 81081). Take bus number 80. Alight 2 stops later. Cut through the housing estate and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

 2) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk to Geylang East Ave 1. On Geylang East Ave 1, turn left and continue to the end of the road. Cross the road and continue on Aljunied Crescent. Walk down Aljunied Crescent and turn right onto Aljunied Ave 2. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop at Paya Lebar MRT station (Stop ID 81119). Take bus number 134 or 155. Alight 2 stops later. Cross the road. Cut through the housing estate and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Charcoal-Grilled & Salad Bar Keisuke @ Paya Lebar Square - A Free-flow Salad Bar Worth Going Back For

Charcoal-Grill & Salad Bar Keisuke at Paya Lebar Square embodies the concept of sumiyaki (charcoal-grill), in which food items are slow-grilled over hot charcoal. Uses only bincho-tan imported from Japan, such Japanese white charcoal not only burns cleanly with a high steady heat, it also has alkalised heat which neutralises the harmful acids that occur during cooking. Cooks four times faster than gas, they are known for producing food that are tender and succulent as any loss of moisture and flavour during cooking is being minimized.

The free-slow salad bar, with more than 30 types of Japanese side dishes and fresh vegetables is impressive. And I do want to come back simply because of this salad bar.

I love the pickled cabbage and celery, which serves as great appetizers while waiting for my grilled items to be served. Another of my favourite is the Chasoba salad, tossed with mushrooms and wakame.

You can choose from 6 types of salad dressing, and this Honey Miso Ginger dressing makes all greens devilish.

Atka Mackerel 2.8/5

Focusing on traditional fish dishes well liked by the Japanese, each set meal comes with miso soup and onsen egg. What I find a nice touch is the serving of Japanese rice cooked traditionally in a small iron pot, served to each diner. One of the specialities here is the Charcoal Grilled Dried Atka Mackerel ($14.90), a fish not commonly served elsewhere. The soft bones are not an issue at all, as I do enjoy taking my time to slowly pick off meat from the bones but in between bites there was slight bitterness, especially the burnt parts.

Miso Marinated Black Cod 3/5

The Charcoal Grilled Miso Marinated Black Cod ($21.90) was definitely more satisfying, especially the fatty part. Pairing the meat with the little items at the side also helps to enrich the texture of the meat, especially that cube of grilled cheese that is served in every set. However, it was not as moist, tender and flaky as I expected it to be. In fact, some parts were rather stiff.

Coffee Jelly 4/5

But I guess that can be forgiven when their Coffee Jelly tastes so good! This fellow diner was exclaiming how good it is as he drowned his coffee jelly with scoops of the cream sauce. Nope, he wasn't exaggerating at all. While most jelly are simply sugar and colouring, this bitter-sweet version with cream carries reminiscences of a Viennese coffee. With this, I don't really need a coffee to end my meal afterall.

Words and photos 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.


Charcoal-Grilled & Salad Bar Keisuke
Paya Lebar Square
60 Paya Lebar Road
#B1-16
Singapore 409051
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours: 
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to decision. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Shanghai Noodle . Lor Mee @ Geylang East Centre Food Centre - Lor Mee With Chunky Fried Fish For $3

Located at the stretch of hawker stalls at Geylang East Centre Food Centre, facing the road is Shanghai Noodle. Lor Mee selling Lor Mee, Chicken Chop Noodle, Pork Chop Noodle and Shredded Chicken Noodle. I only tried the Lor Mee as that is what most of the customers ordered.

Lor Mee 3.5/5

The bowl of Lor Mee ($3) comes brimming with different ingredients such as braised pork belly, fried fish, braised egg and bean sprouts. I could not help noticing that the "Lor" or gravy is without eggs, it was sort of disappointing. The gravy itself is not as robust and starchy compared to many other places too.

I would recommend adding the chilli sauce and garlic, and give the bowl of noodle a good toss. The addition of the chilli and garlic will give the flavour a boost. I enjoyed the luscious topping of braised pork belly which is tender and juicy. The noodle was also well cooked, not over done, still have not al dente texture. As for the fried fish, while it is chunky, the batter is lackluster. It was pre-fried and not crispy.

The Lor Mee here may not be the best but it still provides a comforting meal to fill the hungry stomach. It is also value for money with the amount of ingredients for just $3. While it is not my best, I did observe it has its own regulars during my lunch there.


Shanghai Noodle. Lor Mee
Geylang East Centre Food Centre
Blk 117 Aljunied Ave 2
#01-64
Singapore 380117
Nearest MRT: Aljunied (EW Line), Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 6am - 2pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk towards Aljunied Road. Take the overhead bridge. Cross the road and walk to bus stop opposite Aljunied MRT station (Stop ID 81081). Take bus number 80. Alight 2 stops later. Cut through the housing estate and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

 2) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk to Geylang East Ave 1. On Geylang East Ave 1, turn left and continue to the end of the road. Cross the road and continue on Aljunied Crescent. Walk down Aljunied Crescent and turn right onto Aljunied Ave 2. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop at Paya Lebar MRT station (Stop ID 81119). Take bus number 134 or 155. Alight 2 stops later. Cross the road. Cut through the housing estate and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Shi Wei Xian HongKong Tim Sum @ Aljunied Avenue 2 - Cheap And Good Handmade Dim Sum

Nowadays it is quite hard to find handmade dim sum and that it is reasonable priced. At Shi Wei Xian HongKong Tim Sum, located inside a coffeeshop along Aljunied Avenue 2, a basket of dim sum starts from $3 here. Apparently the stall still handmade their dim sum and they are only open on weekends.

Carrot Cake 3.8/5

The Carrot Cake ($3) is pan fried with a slight brown crisp on the exterior but inside is soft and moist. What I enjoy is the bits of lup cheong in the carrot cake, it gives it an additional boost in aroma for a rounder finish.

Fried Yam Puff 4.5/5

What I enjoyed most is their Fried Yam Puff ($3) or also known as Wu Kok. This is as good as any restaurant standard. Wearing a coat of light crispy batter, biting into it will reveal the char siew filling. Together with the fragrant yam, the combination is unbeatable.

Bean Sauce Chicken Feet 4/5

I love my chicken feet and I have to say the Bean Sauce Chicken Feet ($3.20) is really well done. I enjoyed sucking off the chicken skin off the bone which has absorbed the delicious bean sauce.

Beancurd Sheet Roll 4/5

Another delectable item on the menu is the Beancurd Sheet Roll ($3.20). Wrapping in thin beancurd roll, it is stuffed with lavish fish paste for a delightful enjoyment.

Char Siew Chee Cheong Fun 3/5

I didn't quite like the Char Siew Chee Cheong Fun ($3.30). I find the rice roll is a bit on the thick side. As for the sauce, it is the sweet type instead of those Hong Kong style soy sauce type.

Quail Egg Dumpling 3.5/5

Besides the regular items on the menu, the staff recommended me to try to some of the specials for the day. One of them is the Quail Egg Dumpling. It is like having a siew mai stuffed with a quail egg. Pretty interesting for a coffeeshop stall to create something from the norm.

Spinach Siew Mai 4/5

The other special I tried is the Spinach Siew Mai. I was a bit surprise to see that the stall is willing to adapt with time and step out from their comfort zone. I really applauded the effort to keep themselves in time and hopefully renew their customer base, injecting a bit of hipster into their food.


Shi Wei Xian HongKong Tim Sum
Blk 119 Aljunied Avenue 2
#01-06
Singapore 380119
Tel: +65 81114950
Nearest MRT: Aljunied (EW Line), Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Sat-Sun: 7am - 5pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk towards Aljunied Road. Take the overhead bridge. Cross the road and walk to bus stop opposite Aljunied MRT station (Stop ID 81081). Take bus number 80. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to Aljunied Crescent. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

 2) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk to Geylang East Ave 1. On Geylang East Ave 1, turn left and continue to the end of the road. Cross the road and continue on Aljunied Crescent. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop at Paya Lebar MRT station (Stop ID 81119). Take bus number 134 or 155. Alight 2 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to Aljunied Crescent. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]