Xiao Yu Hao (小鱼号) @ Collyer Quay Centre - China’s Largest Suan Cai Yu Chain Opens First Outlet in Singapore, Serving Convenient Single-Portion Bowls

Newly launched at Collyer Quay, Xiao Yu Hao (小鱼号) is one of China's largest Suan Cai Yu (酸菜鱼) brands, with over 800 outlets since its debut in 2019. It marks their first foray into Singapore, bringing their signature single-portion pickled fish bowls to local diners, starting at an affordable $9.90.

Diners can choose from 5 distinctive broths - Golden Sauerkraut Broth, Spicy Lemon Broth, Tomato Vit C Broth, Miao Style Spicy Sour Broth and Sichuan Spicy Broth, as well as 3 proteins - Black Fish (Snakehead), White Fish (Dory) and Marbled Beef. For the indecisive, there's also a half-half option combining Black Fish and Marbled Beef.

Each speciality bowl comes with a medley of toppings, including tofu puffs, sweet potato vermicelli, wood ear mushrooms, and enoki mushrooms. Alternatively, options for add-ons are also available, such as Cheese Tofu ($2.50) and Lobster Balls ($2.50)

White Fish in Spicy Lemon Broth 4/5

Among the three broths we sampled, the Spicy Lemon Broth with White Fish ($10.80) stood out. Zesty with a gentle heat, this version was refreshing and kept it appetising to enjoy.

Black Fish in Miao Style Red Sour Broth 3.8/5

While the Black Fish in Miao Style Red Sour Broth ($14.20) is one of its popular broths in China, we found the flavours more muted than we expected. We also learnt that the broth is naturally fermented without any preservatives.

Sauerkraut Black Fish Five Grain Rice Noodles in Golden Broth 4/5

The Sauerkraut Black Fish Five Grain Rice Noodles in Golden Broth ($12.80) features a broth brewed with 300-day-aged pickled mustard greens. Don't be mistaken by its pale appearance. The broth delivered a tangy heat that grew with each spoonful. The portion of noodles was huge.

Taro Roll 2.8/5

We also sampled the Taro Roll ($5.80) as a side. While crispy on the outside, the filling tasted overly sweet and slightly artificial, to our liking.

Xiao Yu Hao brings something unique to Singapore’s Suan Cai Yu scene, especially for solo diners seeking variety.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xiao Yu Hao (小鱼号)
Collyer Quay Centre
#01-10
16 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049318
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 8pm
Sat: 11am - 4pm
(Closed on Sun and PH)

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

Altro Zafferano @ Ocean Financial Centre - A Bright and Bold Refreshed Menu in Celebration of Southern Italian Flavours

Altro Zafferano, perched atop Ocean Financial Centre, returns with a refreshed dining concept centred on everyday social dining. Known for its refined Italian cuisine, the restaurant now embraces a more vibrant and approachable experience, bringing the warmth, boldness, and sun-soaked flavours of Southern Italy to the heart of Singapore's CBD. With a bright Mediterranean spirit and a reimagined menu, Altro Zafferano continues to impress with culinary finesse and soulful, honest cooking.

Pomodoro e Basilico 4/5

We started with the Pomodoro e Basilico ($15), a comforting focaccia that embodies the rustic charm of Italy. Made in-house with sourdough and baked until golden, the base is topped with sweet Neapolitan tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The tomatoes are the star. They are plump, juicy, and bursting with natural sweetness, elevating this humble starter with their vibrant, sun-ripened flavour.

Insalata di Polpo e Patate 4.2/5

The Insalata di Polpo e Patate ($28) showcases a tender Mediterranean octopus paired with baby potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a medley of herbs like parsley, chervil, and chives. The light gremolata dressing lifts the dish with citrusy brightness and herbal freshness, tying all the components together into a well-balanced appetiser that awakens the palate.

Carpaccio di Manzo, Pecorino e Senape 4.2/5

The Carpaccio di Manzo ($26) features Australian grain-fed beef sliced and rolled with rocket leaves, pecorino cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Topped with finely chopped shallots and dressed in a whole grain mustard vinaigrette, each bite is a complex interplay of peppery greens, savoury cheese, tangy balsamic, and tender beef. It is a refined starter with great textural contrast and depth.

Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese 4.5/5

A standout from the pasta section, the Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese ($36) is rich, hearty, and comforting. The artisanal pasta from Southern Italy is coated in a slow-cooked Genovese ragu made from onions and Australian Wagyu beef, simmered in red wine for six hours. Finished with parmesan, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary, this dish delivers soul-soothing depth and perfect al dente texture.

Rigatoni alla Gricia 4/5

Prepared tableside for a bit of flair, the Rigatoni alla Gricia ($36 per pax) is a decadent experience. The pasta is tossed inside a pecorino cheese wheel, soaking up all the rich, salty goodness, then topped with crispy guanciale and a bold pepper blend of Sichuan and black pepper. A luxurious treat especially for cheese lovers, balanced by the smoky-savoury punch of guanciale.

Tagliata di Manzo, Rucola e Balsamico 4.2/5

For mains, the Tagliata di Manzo ($68) is a masterclass in simplicity done right. The Black Angus grain-fed striploin is grilled over a Josper to seal in juices and flavour, seasoned with rosemary oil, thyme, and fennel seeds, and finished with a drizzle of Lambrusco balsamico. Served alongside fresh Italian rocket and cherry tomatoes, the dish is full-bodied, tender, and focused entirely on letting the quality of the beef shine.

Branzino all'Acqua Pazza 4.5/5

The Branzino all’Acqua Pazza ($58) was another highlight. The beautifully deboned Sardinian seabass, reassembled with the head and tail intact and baked in a delicate broth of vegetable stock, tomatoes, white wine, olives, and parsley. Finished with extra virgin olive oil and Amalfi lemon, the fish is moist and flaky, its flavours lifted by the bright citrus and briny broth. Elegant and satisfying.

Tiramisu 4.5/5

We ended on a high note with the Tiramisu ($24). This refined rendition layers mascarpone cream with gluten-free Savoiardi biscuits, soaked in espresso, orange peel, and a touch of Cointreau, then dusted with cocoa. The dessert is smooth and light, offering just the right balance of bitterness and sweetness, a sophisticated and well-balanced end to the meal.

With its reimagined focus on approachable yet elevated Southern Italian cuisine, Altro Zafferano offers a vibrant dining experience that blends tradition with creativity. Whether you’re here for a business lunch, romantic dinner, or a weekend indulgence, the restaurant’s new menu invites you to savour Italy’s bold flavours in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Altro Zafferano
Ocean Financial Centre
Level 43
10 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049315
Tel: +65 65091488
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place. Take Exit C. Walk to Ocean Financial Centre which is on the left. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

HighHouse @ One Raffles Place - Affordable New Set Lunch Menu Starting from $48++ Per Person, Available Till 15 June

Perched on Level 62 of One Raffles Place, HighHouse offers a set lunch menu starting from $48++ per person for two courses. The new menu, crafted in collaboration with Chef Daniele Sperindio of Art di Daniele Sperindio, is available for a limited time until 15 June. With an impressive skyline view and a well-curated selection of hot and cold appetisers, mains, and desserts, HighHouse is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a business meeting. We tried the three-course set ($58++ per person) to experience a little bit of everything – and it certainly delivered.

Sticky Mango Highball 3.5/5

We started our lunch with a Sticky Mango Highball ($20) — we couldn't resist, especially with the tempting cocktail menu and that spectacular view. Made with Chalong Bay Thai Agricole, Mango Sticky Rice Cordial, and Bright Citrus, the alcohol level was generous. However, we found it lacking the distinct sticky mango element that the name promised.

Summer in Seoul 3.8/5

For appetisers, we chose one cold and one hot dish. The first is the cold appetiser: Summer in Seoul, which features chilled somen noodles, aged watermelon, and geranium leaf in a tomato broth. It was a refreshing start to the meal, and the geranium leaf reminded us of a pesto-like flavour, giving it a surprisingly Italian twist. The aged watermelon also added an interesting, almost meaty texture to the dish.

Saikyo Miso Foie Gras 4.5/5

Our hot appetiser was the Saikyo Miso Foie Gras, which was the highlight of the meal. The sweet corn velouté was creamy without being cloying, while the crispy Sichuan corn and pork pancetta added delightful texture and flavour. The foie gras itself, marinated in miso, was elevated beautifully, enhancing its rich flavour without overpowering the dish. We couldn't get enough of this one.

12-Hour Slow Cooked Sakura Pork Belly 3.8/5

Moving on to mains, we had the 12-Hour Slow Cooked Sakura Pork Belly. It came with a strong char flavour and was paired with a coffee balsamic sauce that leaned quite sweet. It reminded us of Hong Kong-style char siew, though we wished the pork belly could have been a touch more tender and the sauce slightly less sweet. On the side, there are Brussels sprouts, brown butter carrot sauce (very delicious) and a crispy piece of coconut sticky rice, which we found the rice a little too hard for our liking.

Spanish Octopus Reginette Pasta 3.8/5

The other main was the Spanish Octopus Reginette Pasta, featuring fork-tender chunks of octopus tossed in a lobster bisque reduction. The addition of kimchi added a nice crunch from the cabbage, but overall, the dish leaned on the salty side, possibly due to the furikake topping. A little less salt would have made this dish perfect.

Matcha Gateau 4/5

Coconut & Cashew Tart 4.2/5

For dessert, we went with the recommended Matcha Gateau and Coconut & Cashew Tart. The Matcha Gateau was delightful: a soft Sencha Jaconde Sponge layered with a high-quality Matcha Ganache. The pairing with Grapefruit Compote added a refreshing citrus kick that balanced the richness nicely.

However, the Coconut & Cashew Tart truly stole the show. Its buttery tart shell was filled with Almond Cream, topped with a Sea Salt Cashew Mousseline, and paired with roasty Barley Tea Ice Cream. This was easily our top pick for dessert.

Whether you're looking to impress clients or simply enjoy a relaxed meal with breathtaking views, HighHouse ticks all the boxes. This limited-time lunch menu, thoughtfully crafted with Chef Daniele Sperindio, is available until 15 June — making it the perfect reason to plan a visit soon. With its beautiful setting and well-executed dishes, HighHouse promises an elevated and memorable dining experience. Be sure to reserve early if you want one of the coveted window seats.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


HighHouse
1 Raffles Place
L61-62
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 9677 8074
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu: 1130 am–1 am
Wed: 1130 am–2 am
Fri-Sat: 5 pm–2 am
(Closed on Sun)

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

The Library @ Boat Quay - New Bespoke Bar Serving Omakase Cocktails

Tucked away on the second floor of a shophouse along the river in Boat Quay, The Library is a hidden gem that just opened in April, offering a bespoke bar experience that stands out from the crowd. With an omakase-style cocktail concept led by the charismatic mixologist Fire, this intimate bar invites guests to sit back and let their taste buds be surprised. Perfect for an unhurried afternoon escape or a sophisticated evening out, The Library is redefining cocktail culture with creativity, hospitality and a personal touch.

Omakase Special (for 2) 4/5

We started our experience with the Omakase Special for 2 ($38), which was served elegantly in a traditional Chinese teapot with matching cups. After a quick chat about our preferred flavour profile, Fire crafted a Gin-based cocktail layered with fresh watermelon, mint, almond and a splash of Malibu. Refreshing and well-balanced, it was the kind of drink you could sip all day. To top it off, it came with a side of delightful homemade cookies.

Blue Sky 4/5

Next, we tried the Blue Sky ($28), a signature cocktail that immediately transported us to a tropical beach. A blend of Blue Curacao, Yuzu Gin, Bombay Gin, lemon juice and coconut water, Fire 'upgraded' the drink with a swirl of coconut cream, creating a cloud-like effect floating in the blue. Inspired by Thailand's skies, Fire recommended this cocktail to pair with their Thai-Style Top Shell, and the match was spot on.

Omakase Cocktail 4/5

As we were eager for another surprise, we left our next drink in Fire's hands once more. He returned with a fruity Omakase Cocktail ($33) made with rum, pineapple juice, passionfruit, and champagne. Light, bubbly, and tropical, this cocktail paired wonderfully with our ordered fresh oysters — a refreshing combo that made for an indulgent treat.

Japan Hyogo Oysters 4.2/5

Speaking of oysters, the Japan Hyogo Oysters ($28 for 6 pcs) were a standout. They were sweet, plump, and generously sized, served with lemon wedges and Tabasco for those who like a tangy kick. Simple and satisfying, they were the kind of dish that speaks for itself.

Thai-Style Top Shell 4/5

We highly recommend the Thai-Style Top Shell ($22) for something with a spicy punch. Tossed in a fiery garlic sauce and served with crunchy cucumber slices, it delivered both heat and flavour in every bite. Generously portioned, this addictive dish is ideal for sharing over cocktails.

Chicken Gyoza 3.5/5

If you're after something more filling, go for the Chicken Gyoza ($18 for 10 pcs). These golden dumplings had crispy skins and juicy fillings, served with a tangy soy-vinegar dip on the side. They did the job nicely and helped round out our drinking session.

The Library also offers two private rooms — one overlooking the river through large windows and the other tucked deeper inside for a more secluded setting. These spaces are ideal for small gatherings, private parties or business meetups.

The overall vibe here is relaxed and cosy, even on weekday afternoons. The bar is open Monday through Friday, with Wednesdays reserved exclusively for members. For those interested, the members' package starts from $2,000 and includes six bottles of Ballantine's, one bottle of red or white wine, and unlimited oysters from 6 to 9 PM. Members also enjoy access to live music on members-only nights.

Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or simply someone who enjoys discovering cool hidden spots, The Library offers a delightful escape with bespoke drinks, tasty bites and a welcoming ambience. With Fire at the helm, every visit feels like a personal experience — and we're already looking forward to our next surprise.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Library
41A Boat Quay
Singapore 049830
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu-Fri: 2pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: For private events only
(Closed on Wed, for members only)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn right and walk towards the river. At the river, turn left and walk down the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Riviera @ One Fullerton - Experience the Diverse Flavours of The Mediterranean

Nestled on the second floor of One Fullerton, Riviera offers more than just a dining experience — it's a visual and culinary journey across the diverse flavours of the Mediterranean. Overlooking the breathtaking Marina Bay waterfront and Singapore's iconic Merlion, Riviera is the perfect spot for a romantic night out, a special celebration, or an indulgent evening of fine dining.

Before dinner, start with a pre-dinner drink at the elegant lounge. With the gorgeous view and luxurious ambience, it's the ideal setting to ease into the evening.

Our visit saw us try the Taste of The Riviera 4-course dinner menu ($128++ per pax). It began with a complimentary trio of bread — charcoal Parmesan Bagel, Brioche, and Sourdough — paired with salted butter. Each had its own texture and flavour profile, which was a great introduction to attention to detail throughout the meal.

AMUSE BOUCHE 4.2/5

We kicked off with two beautifully presented bites: a Crab Tartlet, where the sweetness of the crab is elevated with pink peppercorn, and a Butternut Squash sphere that bursts with sweet flavour sitting atop a savoury parmesan base for that satisfying crunch. These are small bites with big impressions.

ROSSO DI MAZARA 5/5

A standout starter, the Rosso Di Mazara features Sicilian Red Prawn Carpaccio seasoned with hazelnut vinaigrette. The red prawns were supremely sweet and melt-in-the-mouth, perfectly complemented by seasonal white asparagus. It was a refreshing yet luxurious opening to the meal.

L'OURSIN 4.8/5

This dish showcases Riviera's creative flair. Bafun uni crowns a bed of Black Bean Tea Pudding with saffron nage, delivering a dish full of surprises. The pudding has a unique texture and earthy flavour, unlike anything we've had before — in the best way possible. It is complex, layered, and sophisticated.

LE CANARD DE CHALLANS 4.5/5

For my main, I chose the Le Canard de Challans. The Challans Duck Breast was cooked beautifully, seasoned just enough to let its natural flavours shine through. Accompanied by a rich bordelaise sauce, the dish felt refined and comforting.

LA TRUITE 4.8/5

My dining partner opted for the La Truite, a filleted French Rainbow Trout topped with smoked caviar and a crisp piece of skin. Served with a smooth petit pois velouté and charred baby endive, it was a well-balanced dish with elegance and complexity.

“MONS” SELECTION OF MATURED CHEESES 4/5

You can add a cheese course for $38. The Mons Cheese Platter includes a variety of soft and hard cheeses, ideal for cheese lovers looking to extend their Mediterranean journey. It's a great way to slow down the meal before dessert.

CANNOLIS AU CHOCOLAT 4.8/5

I've never been a fan of Cannoli because of the hard shell, but Riviera's version won me over. Infused with star anise, the shell is perfectly crisp, and when paired with the Jivara orange chocolate mousse and Grand Marnier sauce, it becomes a divine dessert experience. A creative spin that's both nostalgic and exciting.

As tradition goes, we ended the meal with a selection of petit fours – a sweet little finale that tied everything together.

Riviera isn't just a place to eat; it's a place to savour life. Riviera delivers on every front with breathtaking views, impeccable service, and a menu that showcases both Mediterranean tradition and modern refinement. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, Riviera makes the experience worth it.

Enjoy 15% off any dinner set menu when you book via Riviera.sg and mention the promo code "DTXRIVIERA" in the comment section of the booking. This offer is valid until 31 May 2025. Don't miss this opportunity to indulge in one of Singapore's most scenic and delicious dining destinations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Riviera
One Fullerton
1 Fullerton Road
#02-06
Singapore 049213
Tel: +65 6690 7564
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 630pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Clifford Centre and then Change Alley. Take escalator to level 2. Cross the road using the OUE Link. Turn left towards Fullerton Bay Hotel. Walk to towards the bay and destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]