Mutiara Seafood @ Wisma Geylang Serai - First-ever Halal-certified Seafood Restaurant By JUMBO Group

JUMBO Group opens Mutiara Seafood, their first-ever Halal-certified Seafood concept nestled in the heart of Geylang Serai. Mutiara Seafood shines as a culinary gem within the vibrant Wisma Geylang Serai, with its name derived from the Malay word for' pearl'. This seafood restaurant brings together an unprecedented array of Singaporean-style seafood dishes alongside exclusive grilled creations.

Boasting a seating capacity of 176, Mutiara Seafood also offers four private dining rooms, each with a contemporary ambience suitable for exclusive gatherings, business or personal events.

Crispy Fried Baby Squid 4.2/5

Our dinner began with the Crispy Fried Baby Squid ($16), expertly deep-fried to achieve a delectable crispness. Tossed in a sweet and savoury sauce, this dish was delightful and addictive, heightened by a sprinkle of sesame seeds that added a touch of aromatic goodness.

Seafood Pumpkin Soup 4/5

Next, we indulged in the Seafood Pumpkin Soup ($32/$48/$64), a hearty and comforting concoction. The soup's flavour boasted depth, with the sweetness of the pumpkin harmonizing perfectly with the delicate seafood. The combination yielded a creamy texture that enveloped our palates in pure satisfaction.

Indonesia Grilled Chicken 4.2/5

The Indonesia Grilled Chicken ($20 Half/$36 Whole) showcased JUMBO Seafood's prowess in grilling to perfection. A rich umami flavour from the careful spice marinade enhanced each succulent and juicy bite. The caramelized glaze, created by the marriage of kecap manis and the grill's heat, lent a glossy and sticky coating to the chicken. This glaze enhanced the dish's appearance and added a subtle sweetness that complemented the savoury flavours exquisitely.

Kang Kong Stir Fried with Sambal 4/5

Kang Kong Stir Fried with Sambal ($14/$21/$28) showcased the vibrant green colour and satisfying crunch of the kang kong vegetable. The soul of the dish lay in the sambal, which imparted a punchy and fiery shiokness, elevating the overall experience.

Grilled Red Tilapia Fish with Sambal 4/5

We then relished in the Grilled Red Tilapia Fish with Sambal ($40), where meaty red snapper took centre stage. Layered with a punchy chilli sambal, the fish was grilled to mouth-watering perfection, allowing the flavours to meld harmoniously.

Signature Chilli Crab 4.5/5

A visit to Mutiara Seafood would only be complete with savouring their Signature Chilli Crab (market price). This iconic Singaporean dish featured sweet and fleshy crab drenched in JUMBO Seafood's signature sweet and spicy chilli sauce, best enjoyed with deep-fried mantou buns. The halal rendition of this beloved classic lived up to its renowned reputation.

Signature Black Pepper Crab 4.5/5

Another must-try is the Signature Black Pepper Crab (market price), showcasing the marriage of fresh crab's natural sweetness with black pepper's aromatic and spicy notes. Embrace the messiness and savour the crab with all its flavourful glory.

Jimbaran Grilled Prawns 4.2/5

The Jimbaran Grilled Prawn ($28/4pc) made an impressive entrance with its substantial size. Cooked in classic Balinese style, these prawns were treated to a deep rub and marinade of Jimbaran spices, resulting in a tantalising burst of flavours.

Mee Goreng 4.2/5

The Mee Goreng ($20/$30/$40) was a standout choice to satisfy noodle cravings. The noodles were expertly wok fired to smoky perfection in the traditional Malay style. The sweet, spicy, and savoury sauce coated the noodles impeccably, and a squeeze of calamansi provided a refreshing tang. Prawns and squid were generously incorporated to elevate the dish further.

Mango Pudding 4/5

Finally, we indulged in the Mango Pudding ($5) and Sweet Yam Paste ($5) to conclude our meal on a sweet note. The Mango Pudding delighted us with its soft and creamy texture, garnished with fresh mango that added a fruity freshness. However, the Sweet Yam Paste caught our attention with its unique twist on the traditional dessert. Accompanied by a sweet corn soup, this rendition provided a delightful contrast of flavours and textures that satisfied us thoroughly.

Sweet Yam Paste 4.2/5

In conclusion, Mutiara Seafood by JUMBO Group is a remarkable addition to the seafood dining scene in Singapore. Its Halal certification offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for diners seeking authentic Singaporean-style seafood dishes. From the crispy and addictive appetisers to the succulent grilled specialities and signature crab dishes, every bite at Mutiara Seafood was a testament to JUMBO Seafood's culinary expertise. Coupled with the elegant dining space and attentive service, a visit to Mutiara Seafood promises a memorable gastronomic experience that will surely please seafood enthusiasts and discerning diners alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting session.


Mutiara Seafood
Wisma Geylang Serai
1 Engku Aman Turn
#01-02 & #02-02/03
Singapore 408528
Tel: +65 68163030
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Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit E. Cut through PLQ Mall to Sims Ave. Cross the road and walk to Tanjong Katong Road. Walk down Tanjong Katong Road to Geylang Road. Turn left onto Geylang Road. Walk down Geylang Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Rempapa @ Park Place Residences at PLQ - Cultural Celebration Series, New Dishes For Deepavali

As part of Rempapa's Cultural Celebration Series to showcase Singapore heritage cuisine, the restaurant will feature two dishes celebrating Deepavali from 17 to 24 October 2022.

Kool 4/5

The first dish Kool ($80++), is a Northern Sri Lankan speciality. The recipe came from Chef Damian's granddad's neighbour. The hearty soup consists of fresh seafood such as prawns, squid, crabs and fish head served in a claypot and is suitable for 3-4 pax. They are also vegetables such as long beans, sliced tapioca, and jackfruit seeds. The soup is not the lemak type. It is light with a bit of tartness from the tamarind juice with some dried chilli flakes for a touch of heat. It comes with a bowl of brown rice. We recommend having the brown rice with the comforting stew. Three days advance reservation is required for the dish.

Lamb Dhalcha 4.8/5

The other dish is the Lamb Dhalcha ($60++), a Eurasian interpretation of a traditional South Indian lentil stew. Tender lamb ribs, lentils and potatoes are cooked with an aromatic amalgamation of spices such as toasted cumin, fennel, and coriander. It was so good that I kept returning to the chapati to wipe up the sauce.

Assortment of Kuehs 4.5/5

Wrapping up our dinner, we had an Assortment of Kuehs, a must-have at Rempapa.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Rempapa
2 Paya Lebar Road
#01-01/02/03
Park Place Residences at PLQ
Singapore 409053
Tel: +65 94591603
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Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1030am - 1030pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 930am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to Sims Avenue. Cross the road. Walk to Park Place Residences. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant @ Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy - All New A La Carte & Dim Sum Menu In Support Of Local Produce

Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant, located at Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy, introduces new a la carte and dim sum items to support our local produce and reduce the reliance on food imports. Chinese Executive Chef Victor Lee has curated a mouth-watering menu sourcing vegetables and fish from the local farms, incorporating them into the revamped menu.

Wok-fried Daikon Cake with XO Sauce 4.5/5

A must-try is the Wok-fried Daikon Cake ($10) from the dim sum menu with XO sauce. Coated in umami XO sauce, the wok-fried daikon is crispy on the exterior and soft inside. Topped with shredded egg and beansprouts, they give the daikon cake a lift in flavour and texture.

Jia Wei Butterfly Pea Har Gow 4.2/5

Butterfly Pea Rice Roll with Australian Scallop 3.8/5

Giving the classic Har Gow and Rice Roll a modern take is the Jia Wei Butterfly Pea Har Gow ($7.80 for 3pc) and Butterfly Pea Rice Roll with Australian Scallop ($8.80). The Har Gow was plump with crunchy prawns. As for the rice roll, I find the scallop stuffing an unusual choice as the ingredient itself is rather bland in taste. Thanks to delicious soy sauce that lifted the flavour profile.

Crispy Local Soft Shell Crab with Ice Plant 4/5

Moving to the a la carte menu, we started with the Crispy Local Soft Shell with Ice Plant ($22 per serving). A refreshing combination of crispy soft shell crab paired with crunchy ice plant. The whole enjoyment is brightened with the addition of ume infused tomato and yuzu dressing.

Curly Kale Soup 4/5

I am not a fan of kale, but that does not deter me from finishing the Curly Kale Soup ($20 per serving) cooked with braised crab meat and beancurd. It doesn't have the earthy Kale taste, which I dislike. Instead, it felt more like having a bowl of chicken soup with the braised crab meat and beancurd giving it a substantial mouthfeel.

Corn-fed Har Cheong Chicken Slider 4.2/5

One of my favourite dishes for the night is the Corn-fed Har Cheong Chicken Slider ($28) drizzled with yuzu dressing, giving it a tangy kick. A crispy and tender chicken fillet is sandwiched between a soft and fluffy bun. I enjoy the textural combination of soft, fluffy, tender and crisp, all coming together in a delicious bite.

Wok-fried Celtuce Stem 4.5/5

It is my first time trying celtuce stem, and I was surprised by how much I like it. The Wok-fried Celtuce Stem ($24) cooked in Szechuan dried chilli has a delectable sweetness and a delightful crunchy texture.

Crispy Egg Noodle 4.2/5

Regulars can still look forward to perennial favourites and signature dishes on the menu. One of them is the Crispy Egg Noodle ($26) in chicken broth gravy. It even comes with fresh seafood such as prawns and fish slices.

Chilled Homemade Coconut Pudding 4.8/5

Wrapping up our dinner is the Chilled Homemade Coconut Pudding ($15 per serving) with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The pudding made from fresh coconut water is light and refreshing. It is just a perfect dessert to end the night. 

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant
Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy
50 East Coast Road
Level 2
Singapore 428769
Tel: +65 63405678
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Website
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Paya Lebar (EW Line, CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 31. Alight 6 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop along Paya Lebar Road (Stop ID 81111). Take bus number 43, 76, 134 or 135. Alight 8 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 18 minutes. [Map]

Yakiniku Like @ Paya Lebar Quarter - Celebrate 2nd Anniversary With Limited Time Promotions

Yakiniku Like from Tokyo, Japan, which opened its first outlet in Paya Lebar Quarter, Singapore, in February 2020, celebrates its 2nd anniversary. To commemorate the occasion, the restaurant has launched a limited-time promotion.

Hokkaido Snow Pork Platter

For a limited period, from 16 February to 30 April 2022, customers can look forward to savouring the Hokkaido Snow Pork Platter ($15.80 A La Carte/ $17.80 Set Meal). Known as the pork of dreams, the pork impresses with immaculate marbling, melt-in-the-mouth texture and delicate sweetness. The platter comprises 150 grams of Hokkaido pork collar, belly and tontoro (jowl). The set meal comes with a side of rice, seaweed soup, kimchi, or salad to complete the set.

Mega Meat Set

Not to be missed is the Mega Meat Set ($19.80) which you can enjoy the best of all worlds, consisting of Karubi 200g, Pork Belly and Chicken 200g served with rice, soup and a choice of kimchi or salad. This special promotion is only available from 28 to 30 April 2022.

Yakiniku Like also introduced its first branded merchandise as anniversary memorabilia – an exclusively designed Mobile Pop Socket featuring key icons of the brand. It is available in two unique designs of the brand's iconic logo and a quirky illustration of a cow wearing thick-framed glasses.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yakiniku Like
Paya Lebar Quarter
10 Paya Lebar Road
#B1-28
Singapore 409057
Tel: +65 69707397
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Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Joyfulness Dining @ Kinex Mall - Introducing Chinese Zodiac Food Guide By Local Feng Shui Master Peng Song Hua

This Chinese New Year, Joyfulness Dining has invited local Feng Shui Master Peng Song Hua to match the Five Elements (Wuxing, 五行) with individuals' Chinese zodiac signs to create dishes that benefit individuals' zodiac sign and herald good fortune in the Year of the Tiger.

According to ancient Chinese traditions, everything in the universe comes from the five elements: wood, fire, earth, water, and metal. Wuxing can be applied to our food choice, whereby the energy of wood, fire, earth, water and metal can be harnessed through certain foods to help boost prosperity and fortunes.

Chicken Soup Stewed with Bamboo Fungus and Cordyceps Flowers 3.5/5

Starting with the Chinese zodiac Rat, it is recommended to have the Chicken Soup Stewed with Bamboo Fungus and Cordyceps Flowers. As the wuxing of Rat is water, it is beneficial to have food such as lotus root, lotus seed and cordyceps flowers.

Chicken with Chilli Peppers 2.8/5

I am born in the year of the Tiger in which the wuxing is wood. Hence it is recommended to have red coloured food that represents fire. Therefore it is suggested that I have the Chicken with Chilli Peppers.

Flamed-BBQ Chicken 3.8/5

Similar to Tiger, the Chinese zodiac Rabbit's wuxing is wood. Hence any red coloured food or fire which represents vitality and prosperity is good for the Chinese zodiac sign. Hence the Flamed-BBQ Chicken is such a fitting dish.

Scallops and Asparagus in XO Sauce 3.5/5

Snake's wuxing is fire, and the suitable foods are wood-based. These include green vegetables such as asparagus and mung beans. Therefore, the restaurant recommends having the Scallops and Asparagus in XO Sauce, which contains much fibre and vitamins, helps eliminate toxins from the body.

Hong Kong-styled Steamed Fish 4/5

Those born in the Horse year need to join forces with others to gain and succeed. Therefore, foods that are suitable for wuxing fire and wuxing water will be especially good for people born in the year of the Horse. Appropriate food includes fish and seafood. Hence it is recommended to have Hong Kong-style Steamed Fish.

Mushroom with Seasonal Vegetables 3.8/5

The Goat's wuxing is earth. Foods that can strengthen the earth element include tofu, mushrooms and vegetables. The Mushroom with Seasonal Vegetables is well suit to for the zodiac sign.

Black Pork with Red Wine 4/5

As the wuxing of the Monkey is metal. Foods recommended are black in colours such as black beans, black fungus and black glutinous rice. The restaurant is recommending the Black Pork with Red Wine with that in mind.

Stir-fried Carrot Cake with Beansprouts in XO Sauce

The Stir-fried Carrot Cake with Beansprouts in XO Sauce is beneficial for the Rooster as the wuxing is metal. Suitable foods are white in colour, including radish, potato, taro, sweet potato and ginger.

Dry-fried Tiger Prawns

Those born in the year of the Pig is to consume food which is "metal" in its wuxing, which are white, including scallops, fish and prawns. Hence the restaurant is recommending having the Dry-fried Tiger Prawn.

Claypot Seafood

The Claypot Seafood is good for Dog, as the wuxing is earth. Food that is "fiery" includes ingredients cooked in a clay pot, and peppery food can help improve energy levels and boost fortunes.

Of the dishes we tried, we didn't have the items for Ox and Dragon. Nevertheless, it is interesting to pair food with the Chinese zodiac. Thanks to Feng Shui Master Peng Song Hua, it is an insight into food and wuxing. While there is a good story behind each dish, I would prefer more effort to create unique dishes or use special ingredients instead of presenting dishes commonly served elsewhere.

Note: This is an invited tasting session. 


Joyfulness Dining
Kinex Mall
11 Tanjong Katong Road
#02-38
Singapore 437157
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Website
Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 10am - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 8am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to Sims Ave. Cross the road and walk to Tanjong Katong Road. Walk down Tanjong Katong Road to Kinex Mall. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar @ Kinex - New Mod-Japanese Restaurant With Inventive Interpretations Of Izakaya Food

Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar is a new mod-Japanese restaurant at Kinex. Diners can look forward to inventive interpretations of izakaya food and Japanese cuisine prepared with fresh and quality ingredients.

Maguro Tataki Salad 3/5

We started with the Maguro Tataki Salad ($28), which comes with thick slices of tuna layered on a bed of mixed salad and kaiso seaweed. Pour the wasabi yuzu sauce and give everything a good toss to brighten the enjoyment.

Shironi Truffle 4/5

The Shironi Truffle ($30) consists of light and clean tasting sea bream topped with caviar and drizzled with truffle oil for an elevated finishing. It is an elegant and beautiful dish.

Tofu Nuggets 4.2/5

One of my favourite items on the menu is the Tofu Nuggets ($12). The tofu nuggets are made from pressed tofu, almond meal and potato. It is as good as McDonald's nugget and much healthier.

Uni Kura Tart 4.5/5

Making an impressive entry is the Uni Kura Tart ($22/pc). It is served in a smoked jewel box, giving it a beautiful smoky aroma, topped with salmon roe and truffle cream. It is a lavish play of umami flavours.

Charcoal Chicken 4.5/5

Using chicken thigh cut, the Charcoal Chicken ($16) is tender and juicy inside, yet crispy on the exterior. It is a delightful and addictive starter. Best to go along with a few drinks.

Tsukune 4.5/5

The Tsukune ($5.20) is another delightful bite to go with the drinks. What I enjoy about the homemade chicken meatball is its soft bone, giving it a nice textural contrast.

Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Cha Zuke 4.5/5

Besides the a la carte items, diners can leave the meal to the hands of the skilful chef too. From the omakase menu, we tried the Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Cha Zuke. The best way to enjoy this is to pour the kombu dashi stock into the rice for a light and flavourful enjoyment. It is a hearty and comforting rice dish with melt in the mouth wagyu.

Ume Jelly 3.5/5

Wrapping up our dinner is the Ume Jelly ($8) made with Japanese plum liquor jelly and wholesome wolfberries.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar
Kinex
11 Tanjong Katong Road
#02-21
Singapore 437157
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 11pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to Sims Ave. Cross the road and walk to Tanjong Katong Road. Walk down Tanjong Katong Road to Kinex Mall. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]