Bulgogi Syo @ Suntec City - Limited Time Collaboration with Culinary Class Wars S2 Chef Jung

For a limited time, fans of Netflix's Culinary Class Wars Season 2 can experience an exciting collaboration as Chef Jung Ho-young, one of the Top 4 finalists, makes his first overseas appearance in Singapore at Bulgogi Syo. Bringing dishes straight from the show to the table, the exclusive menu also features signatures from his popular Udon Caden, offering diners a rare taste of his culinary repertoire beyond Japan.

Monkfish Liver Chawanmushi 4/5

The Monkfish Liver Chawanmushi ($10.90) is undoubtedly the most anticipated dish on the menu and one of the most talked-about creations from the show. Having witnessed Chef Jung butcher a whole monkfish during the launch event, just as seen on screen, adds to the appreciation of the dish. The flesh is charcoal-grilled with soy-based seasoning, while the liver, often dubbed the "foie gras of the sea," is braised with a kombu-infused soy glaze. These are then combined into a silky steamed egg custard, finished with yuzu skin and a hint of wasabi. While the custard is smooth and flavourful, the slight bitterness from the yuzu peel and the presence of wasabi may not appeal to everyone.

Crispy Prawn Croquette 3/5

From Udon Caden, the Creamy Prawn Croquette with Sesame Sauce ($12.90 for 2pc) delights with its crisp exterior and creamy, oozy interior reminiscent of corn cream soup. Each bite reveals juicy prawn chunks, while the accompanying house-made roasted sesame sauce adds a nutty depth that ties the dish together beautifully.

Grilled Sea Eel with Lotus Root Manju 3/5

Another highlight from Culinary Class Wars Season 2 is the Grilled Sea Eel Renkon Manju with Crab Sauce ($39.90). The eel is braised on one side and grilled on the other, resulting in a delicate yet flavourful finish. It is paired with a renkon manju, a lotus root pastry made from finely shredded lotus root, chilled and fried, and served in a luscious crab broth with sweet crab meat and a subtle ginger aroma. Accompaniments include kimchi salad, pickled radish and sotbap rice furikake. However, the eel contains many fine bones, making it less suitable for children. The lotus root manju, while unique, leans towards a soft and creamy texture that may feel somewhat one-dimensional. Diners can opt for the Grilled Codfish Renkon Manju with Crab Sauce ($29.90) as a more approachable alternative.

Yakibuta Skewer 3/5

Signature Beef Curry Udon 3.5/5

The Signature Beef Curry Udon ($19.90) is a comforting staple from Udon Caden. The udon noodles are chewy and springy, paired with a silky, mildly spiced curry filled with tender beef cubes and soft potatoes. For an additional $3, diners can add a Yakibuta Skewer, smoky, juicy pork belly glazed with caramelised shoyu tare. While the pork is well-executed, the leek pieces could be smaller for a more balanced bite.

Citrus-Soy Grilled Cod 3.5/5

The Citrus-Soy Grilled Cod Fish ($25.90) highlights the fish's natural sweetness. Lightly grilled and glazed with a dashi soy lemon sauce, the cod develops a caramelised exterior while remaining buttery and moist inside. Served alongside mushrooms, lotus root and vegetables, it makes for a wholesome and satisfying dish.

In all, this limited-time collaboration at Bulgogi Syo offers a unique opportunity to taste Chef Jung Ho-young's creations beyond Jeju Island. While not every dish may appeal to all palates, the experience of enjoying dishes inspired by Culinary Class Wars, brought to life by the chef himself, makes it a worthwhile visit for fans and food enthusiasts alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bulgogi Syo
Suntec City
3 Temasek Boulevard
#B1-133
Singapore 038983
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Onggii @ Suntec City - Soulful, 28-Hour Traditional Korean Broths for the Soul

Tucked inside Suntec City, Onggii is a cosy Korean spot dedicated to soulful traditional broths and stews — the kind that truly feels like home. The star here is their Signature Gomtang, a deeply comforting soup made by simmering bones for 28 hours to extract all that rich, nourishing flavour.

Dweji Gomtang 4.2/5

Dweji Gomtang ($16.90). Delivering beautifully layered broths that is hearty and soothing. You can even add noodles and/or rice into the soup, turning it into an even more satisfying bowl. The pork sliced into big pieces, tender, lean meat with a good ratio of fats. Other available gomtang available are So Gomtang (Ox Bones), Beef Wang Galbi Gomtang, Dak Gomtang (Chicken), Gamjatang (Pork Bone Soup).

Beef Ugeojitang 4/5

We also tried the Beef Ugeojitang ($19.90), served in a mildly spicy broth filled with beef strips and vegetables. Much like the Dweji Gomtang, diners can add the accompanying rice or noodles into the soup, turning it into a substantial one-bowl meal. The broth carries a gentle heat that adds depth to the overall flavour. However, while the soup itself was enjoyable, the beef strips were slightly tough.

So Galbi Jjim 4.2/5

Another highlight was the So Galbi Jjim ($34.90), tender braised beef ribs coated in a sweet, deeply flavoured sauce that makes it hard to stop at one bite. I like the part on the bone with a resistant from the tendon. It also comes with crunchy lotus root that has absorbed the sweet sauce.

For those seeking comforting Korean soups in the heart of the city, Onggii offers a satisfying selection of traditional broths that focus on depth of flavour and homely warmth. The slow-simmered gomtang delivers a nourishing and soothing experience, while dishes like the So Galbi Jjim provide a richer complement to the meal. Whether you are looking for a hearty bowl of soup or a comforting Korean meal, Onggii is a worthwhile stop when dining at Suntec City.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Onggii
Suntec City
3 Temasek Boulevard
#02-300
Singapore 038983
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 330pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Karii @ Suntec City - Singapore’s First Okinawan Street Food Concept by EN Group

Karii かりー! That's how Okinawans say cheers in their dialect, where "karii" (kanji: 嘉例) translates to happiness. It is a fitting name for the newest opening by the established Japanese F&B veteran EN Group at Suntec City. Opening its doors on 4 February 2026, the eatery aims to set a trend of joy and long life through the vibrant, coastal flavours of Okinawa. Touted as Singapore's first Okinawan street food concept, the space is modern and warm, featuring lightwood finishes and subtle bingata patterns. Overlooking the Fountain Court, the menu spans from taco rice and Okinawa-style sandos to hearty bowls, all crafted for quick, quality enjoyment.

Mozuku Tempura 2.5/5

We started with the Mozuku Tempura ($2.80), which is fried Okinawa seaweed. Unfortunately, preparing it this way did not do the ingredient justice. I couldn't really taste the delicate seaweed; instead, it was dominated by the crispy batter. It's perhaps not the best way to showcase this unique island speciality.

Jimami Tofu 3/5

The Jimami Tofu ($2.80) is a traditional Okinawan peanut tofu. I must admit I am not a big fan of this dish as the texture is quite a departure from typical soybean tofu. Because it is made from peanuts, it has a more stretchy, chewy, and pudding-like consistency that might be an acquired taste for some.

Okinawa-Style Taco Rice 3/5

A quintessential island dish, the Okinawa-Style Taco Rice features seasoned minced meat, cheese, arugula, cabbage, and cherry tomatoes over rice. You can choose between Hokkaido Pork ($6.80) or Beef ($7.80). For those watching their intake, there is a no-carb option where the rice is replaced with extra greens. You can also customise your bowl with add-ons like Goya Tempura, Teriyaki Chicken, or Rafute.

Okinawa Soba 3/5

The Okinawa Soba ($8.80 Small / $13.80 Large) features rafute (braised pork belly), beni shoga, and chikuwa in a Japanese paitan tonjiru broth. While the small portion comes with two pieces of succulent pork and the large with four, the dish overall felt a little different from the authentic bowls I've had during my trips to Okinawa. It's a comforting bowl, but it didn't quite hit that nostalgic note for me.

Mentai Ebi Onigiri 4/5

The highlight of the meal was the Mentai Ebi Onigiri ($9.50 Ala carte / $13.00 Dine-in Set). This hefty sandwich-style onigiri features a fried tiger prawn drizzled with mentaiko mayo, layered with spam, dashimaki (Okinawan egg), and mayonnaise wrapped in Japanese seaweed. If you dine in, the set is quite value-for-money, coming with white miso soup, mozuku su, and two appetisers of the day.

Goya Shikuwasa Honey 4.2/5

For a refreshing thirst-quencher, the Goya Shikuwasa Honey ($6.80) is a must-try. It combines bitter gourd, shikuwasa juice, honey, and soda. Don't be put off by the bitter gourd; the bitterness is very subtle and balances well with the tart citrus and sweet honey. It is an incredibly refreshing choice for a hot afternoon.

Okinawa Donuts 3/5

To end on a sweet note, we tried the Okinawa Donuts (3 for $2.50). These come in three flavours: Original, Okinawan Brown Sugar, and Purple Sweet Potato. Unlike the soft, doughy donuts we are used to, these are traditionally crumbly and dense.

Overall, Karii offers a fun and accessible introduction to Okinawan culture in the heart of the city. While some dishes lean towards a more localised palate, the onigiri and refreshing drinks make it a great spot for a quick, casual meal.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Karii
Suntec City Mall
3 Temasek Boulevard
#B1-170 (Fountain Court)
Singapore 038983
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Hai Tien Lo @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Welcomes the Lunar New Year with Festive Celebrations and Culinary Delights

Executive Chinese Chef Edden Yap and his culinary team at Hai Tien Lo, Pan Pacific Singapore, have crafted a Lunar New Year feast that balances tradition with refinement. Available from 23 January to 3 March 2026, the eight set menus and à la carte specialities are designed to celebrate prosperity, happiness, and good fortune. We had the pleasure of sampling the Joyous Abundance Menu, a carefully curated journey through festive classics elevated with premium ingredients.

Vitality Yu Sheng with classic Whole Abalone, Lobster, and Smoked Salmon 4.5/5

A spectacular start to the meal, the Vitality Yu Sheng with classic Whole Abalone, Lobster, and Smoked Salmon is all about abundance and finesse. Plump whole abalone anchors the platter with prized chew and natural sweetness, complemented by succulent lobster and delicately smoked salmon. Tossed with crisp vegetables, pickled accents, crushed peanuts, and sesame seeds, the tangy-sweet house dressing harmoniously binds the textures and flavours. Luxurious yet approachable, this is prosperity served on a plate.

Double-boiled Dendrobium Chicken Soup 4.5/5

The restorative Double-boiled Dendrobium Chicken Soup, which features free-range chicken, fish maw, whole abalone, dried scallops, and sea whelk, is quietly elegant. Double-boiled with Dendrobium orchid stems, the broth is naturally sweet and crystal clear, infused with subtle herbal freshness and a lingering mineral nuance. It's soothing, refined, and deeply comforting, a perfect interlude before the richer dishes.

Sliced Crispy Barbecued Suckling Pig with Caviar 4.2/5

The Sliced Crispy Barbecued Suckling Pig with Caviar impresses with shatteringly crisp skin and tender meat beneath. Each slice is finished with caviar, introducing a briny pop that cuts through the richness without overpowering it. The balance of textures and flavours is precise, making this an indulgent yet measured dish.

Sliced Beijing Duck and Jelly Fish 4/5

The Sliced Beijing Duck and Jelly Fish brings together two classic Chinese delicacies with distinct personalities. Thinly sliced Beijing duck showcases lacquered skin and gentle smokiness, while jellyfish adds a crisp, cooling contrast. Together, they create a harmonious progression of textures and flavours — composed, refreshing, and engaging.

Steamed Half East Australian Lobster in Chinese Wine Broth 4.5/5

The East Australian Lobster shines in minimalist fashion, steamed to tender perfection. The accompanying Chinese wine broth lends subtle warmth and aromatic depth, enhancing but never overshadowing the lobster's natural sweetness. A lesson in letting premium ingredients speak for themselves.

Braised South African 10 Head Whole Dried Abalone with Sea Cucumber in Abalone Sauce 4.5/5

A ceremonial centrepiece, the Braised South Africian 10 Head Whole Dried Abalone with Sea Cucumber in Abalone Sauce celebrates patience and craftsmanship. The 10-head whole dried abalone is tender yet springy, paired with silky sea cucumber, all cloaked in a glossy, umami-rich abalone sauce. Each bite is indulgent, deeply savoury, and profoundly satisfying — a masterclass in Cantonese braising.

Sauteed Japanese A5 Wagyu Beef with Fresh Mushrooms and Green Vegetables 4.2/5

The A5 Wagyu melts effortlessly, its buttery richness complemented by earthy mushrooms and crisp green vegetables. Minimal seasoning allows the beef's natural sweetness to shine, making this a balanced and composed highlight of the menu.

Stewed Inaniwa Udon with Pan-fried East Spotted Grouper Fish Fillet in Fish Broth 4.2/5

A comforting yet refined course, the Inaniwa Udon absorbs the clean, oceanic sweetness of the clear fish broth. Topped with a lightly pan-fried East Spotted Grouper fillet, the dish achieves a delicate interplay of textures and flavours. It is elegant, soothing, and precise.

Prosperity Nian Gao coated with Peanuts and Shredded Yam 4.2/5

A festive dessert that balances tradition and texture. The tender Nian Gao is coated with crushed peanuts and shredded yam, offering a delightful contrast between chewiness and crunch. Golden and auspicious, it's a playful, celebratory take on a Lunar New Year classic.

Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Peach Gum and Red Dates, in Young Coconut 4.5/5

A luxurious finish, the Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Peach Gum and Red Dates combines bird's nest, peach gum, and red dates, served in refreshing young coconut water. Silky, gelatinous, and delicately sweet, it is light yet indulgent, leaving the palate nourished and satisfied.

Hai Tien Lo's Joyous Abundance Menu is a Lunar New Year feast that respects tradition while elevating it with premium ingredients and precise execution. From the celebratory Yu Sheng to the indulgent abalone centrepiece and refined desserts, each dish is thoughtfully composed, making it a festive dining experience that celebrates both flavour and symbolism.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hai Tien Lo
Pan Pacific Singapore
7 Raffles Boulevard
Level 3
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 68268240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Cafe Jubilant (欢乐家) @ Millenia Walk - Unveils All-You-Can-Eat Hotpot From $18.90++

Cafe Jubilant (欢乐家) at Millenia Walk has launched an all-you-can-eat hotpot concept that offers a generous variety of dishes, comforting flavours, and wallet-friendly prices, starting at $18.90++ per person. Known as a casual Asian quick-serve restaurant during weekday lunches, the space transforms into a bustling hotpot haven from 4pm to 10pm on weekdays and all day from 11am to 10pm on weekends and public holidays.

The hotpot concept is thoughtfully tiered into three curated set menus, ensuring there is something for every appetite. Diners seated at the same table must select the same set. Prices range from $18.90++ to $38.90++ on weekdays and from $20.90++ to $42.90++ on weekends.

The hotpot journey begins with a choice of eight freshly brewed soup bases, including comforting and punchy options such as Peeled Chilli Chicken Soup, Curry Soup, Japanese Bonito Soup, Szechuan Mala Soup, Clear Chicken Soup, and 9 Herbs Chicken Soup.

Guests can choose from three thoughtfully curated tiers of indulgence:

Pork & Chicken Value Set – The perfect entry point into the hotpot experience, this set offers unlimited servings of sliced pork belly, sliced pork collar, assorted marinated meats, chicken paste, and chicken wantons, among other comforting staples.

Beef & Seafood Premium Set – Stepping things up a notch, this elevated tier includes everything found in the Value Set, complemented by premium additions such as USA beef, Australian sliced pork collar, sliced lamb, ebiko prawn paste, white clams, and more.

Claypot Fish Head Deluxe Set – Designed for the discerning diner, this top-tier option combines items from previous sets. It culminates in exclusive highlights, including fried fish head, fried fish meat, Australian sliced wagyu, and Japanese pork.

While the chosen set determines the proteins and seafood selection, the rest of the hotpot experience remains wonderfully expansive, with an abundance of free-flow ingredients to complete the feast.

Beyond the proteins, diners are free to indulge in over 100 free-flowing ingredients, ranging from assorted fishballs, fishcakes, and meatballs to mushrooms, leafy vegetables, and noodles — offering endless combinations for your bubbling pot.

In addition to the feast, there are unlimited cold dishes, fresh fruits, and a sauce station where diners can create their own personalised dipping sauces.

For those who enjoy fried delights, the deep-fried station is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Expect favourites such as Spring Roll, Fried Mantou, French Fries, Nugget, Youtiao, and more.

There is also a hot station with rotating cooked dishes, all free-flow. Highlights of my visit included Pork Ribs, Curry Chicken, Braised Chicken Feet, and Lotus Leaf Glutinous Rice. Fans of Taiwanese cuisine will be pleased to find comforting staples like Braised Pork Belly Rice and Tea Eggs (茶叶蛋).

The meal concludes on a satisfying note with free-flow desserts and drinks, including Mango Sago, Red Bean Soup, refreshing beverages, and Soft Serve Ice Cream. 

Value-seekers will appreciate the added perks: students and senior citizens receive a $3 discount Monday to Friday before 6pm (excluding public holidays) with valid passes. Families dining together will also be delighted to know that children under 5 dine for free.

With its extensive spread, approachable pricing, and family-friendly perks, Cafe Jubilant’s all-you-can-eat hotpot concept offers an impressive and satisfying dining option right in the heart of the city.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Cafe Jubilant (欢乐家)
Millenia Walk
9 Raffles Boulevard
#01-46/47/48/49/50
Singapore 039596
Tel: +65 64708201
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 4pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun & PH: 11am - 10pm

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