Showing posts with label .Station: Serangoon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Station: Serangoon. Show all posts

Monday, August 17, 2026

Baci Baci Ristorante @ Serangoon Garden - Celebrates 12th Anniversary with 50% Off Pizza & Pasta

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Tucked away in the leafy enclave of Serangoon Gardens, Baci Baci Ristorante is celebrating its 12th anniversary with a fresh new look and the same comforting, rustic Italian flavours that have made it a neighbourhood favourite for over a decade.

Meaning “Kiss Kiss” in Italian, Baci Baci Ristorante has quietly established itself as a go-to destination for authentic Italian fare, helmed by Chef Alberto Dalla Vecchia. From hearty, slow-cooked pastas to homemade pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven, the restaurant focuses on unfussy, generous cooking that feels warm and familiar.

To mark its 12th anniversary, diners can enjoy 50% off any pizza or pasta from Monday to Thursday, from now until 31 August 2026, making it a great time to revisit this neighbourhood gem.

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Grilled Mediterranean Octopus 4/5

We started with the Grilled Mediterranean Octopus ($35), served with tomato salsa. The octopus was impressively tender and meaty, with none of the rubbery texture that can sometimes accompany grilled octopus. A good char from the wood-fired grill gave the exterior smoky depth, while the refreshing tomato salsa provided a bright, slightly tangy contrast. It is a simple combination, but one that lets the quality and natural flavour of the seafood come through.

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Cacciucco 4.2/5

Next was the Cacciucco ($33), a traditional Tuscan-style seafood stew that makes for a hearty and comforting starter or main to share. The tomato-based broth was rich, savoury and robust, with a gentle sweetness developed from slow cooking. It comes generously loaded with seafood, including clams, mussels, prawns and squid, each adding its own layer of briny flavour to the stew. Best enjoyed with some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the flavourful broth.

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Submarine 4/5

For pizza, the Submarine ($35) is easily one of the more distinctive creations on the menu. Rather than the usual round pizza, this signature creation is rolled and folded into a submarine-like shape, enclosing mozzarella, gorgonzola and mortadella ham before being topped with tomato sauce, fresh rocket and crushed pistachios. A side of spicy tomato sauce provides an additional kick.

The wood-fired dough develops a nicely charred exterior while retaining a satisfying chew, creating a substantial base for the rich fillings. Creamy mozzarella mellows out the sharper, funky notes of gorgonzola, while the mortadella brings a savoury, delicate meatiness. Fresh rocket adds peppery freshness, and crushed pistachios provide a pleasant crunch and earthy nuttiness. The spicy tomato sauce is a nice touch, adding heat that keeps the richness in check.

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Fig Time 4.2/5

Another pizza worth trying is the Fig Time ($35), a popular house speciality that turns the classic sweet-and-savoury combination into a decadent wood-fired pizza. Baked in an authentic beechwood-fired oven, the pizza comes with a molten combination of mozzarella and brie, generous slices of Parma ham and figs.

The natural sweetness of the figs works beautifully with the salty, savoury Parma ham, while the creamy cheeses create what is essentially a slice of “cheesy heaven”. A subtle spicy note also cuts through the richness. The crust is crisp and lightly charred around the edges while remaining tender and chewy within. If you enjoy pizzas that venture beyond the usual tomato-and-meat combinations, this is one to consider.

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Tagliatelle all’ Anatra 4.2/5

For pasta, the Tagliatelle all’ Anatra ($34) is a comforting choice that showcases Baci Baci’s rustic approach to Italian cooking. The egg tagliatelle is tossed with a slow-braised duck ragù, creating a deeply savoury, hearty pasta. The broad ribbons of tagliatelle suit the rich ragù, catching plenty of sauce with every bite. Unlike a tomato-heavy ragù, this version is cooked in a white base, keeping the flavour of the duck front and centre. The sauce has a deep, savoury quality that gives the dish a distinctly homestyle character — the kind of pasta that feels hearty without being overly complicated.

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Maiale Grigliato 4/5

For meat lovers, the Maiale Grigliato ($46) features a grilled pork chop served with roasted potatoes and mixed vegetables. The pork is first prepared sous vide to retain its natural juices and tenderness, then finished on the grill for a nicely charred, smoky exterior. The result is a pork chop that remains juicy and tender within, with the grill adding plenty of flavour to the outside. It comes with a light white wine sauce that adds a gentle savoury richness without masking the meat. Roasted potatoes and seasonal grilled vegetables complete the dish, making it a substantial, satisfying main course.

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Tagliata Rucola Scaglie Di Grana e Balsamico 4/5

The Tagliata Rucola Scaglie Di Grana e Balsamico ($54) is another hearty main, centred around a grilled Argentinian ribeye steak. Prepared tagliata-style and sliced into thick pieces, the steak was tender and juicy, with a good grilled flavour. Fresh, peppery rocket and shavings of Grana Padano balance the beef’s richness, while a drizzle of balsamic reduction adds sweetness and acidity. The balsamic works particularly well here, cutting through the richness of both the steak and cheese. Served with golden roasted potatoes, it is a classic rustic Italian combination that doesn’t need much embellishment.

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Chocolate Salami 3.5/5

Dessert takes a more traditional turn with the Chocolate Salami ($18). Designed to resemble a cured salami, the dense chocolate log is studded with crunchy biscuit pieces, creating the characteristic marbled appearance when sliced. It is rich and chocolatey without being overly complicated, with the biscuits providing a welcome textural contrast. The dessert comes with handmade pistachio ice cream, fresh fruits including figs, grapes and strawberries, and a light dusting of icing sugar. The pistachio ice cream pairs particularly well with the chocolate, adding a creamy, nutty element that lightens each bite.

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Homemade Tiramisu 4/5

The Homemade Tiramisu ($18) rounds things off on a more classic note. Layers of airy mascarpone cream and delicate ladyfingers soaked generously in espresso create a dessert that is rich yet surprisingly light on the palate. The robust coffee aroma comes through clearly, balanced by the smooth mascarpone cream and a generous layer of cocoa powder on top. It has the familiar flavours of a traditional tiramisu, with a soft, creamy texture that melts easily in the mouth. A fitting way to end a meal centred around comforting Italian classics.

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After 12 years in Serangoon Gardens, Baci Baci Ristorante still offers Italian cooking that feels approachable and familiar, with plenty of character from the kitchen. Chef Alberto Dalla Vecchia’s menu spans comforting pastas, inventive wood-fired pizzas, hearty grilled meats and classic desserts, making it an easy choice for both casual neighbourhood meals and gatherings with family and friends.

With 50% off any pizza or pasta from Monday to Thursday until 31 August 2026, the anniversary promotion is a great excuse to head down, revisit old favourites, or explore the menu for the first time. For those looking for rustic Italian comfort food away from the bustle of the city centre, Baci Baci remains a charming little slice of Italy in Serangoon Gardens.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Baci Baci Ristorante
27 Lichfield Road
Serangoon Garden
Singapore 556847
Tel: +65 9820 7969
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Website
Nearest MRT: Lorong Chuan (CC Line), Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Sat: 12pm - 2pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sun: 12pm - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT Station. Take Exit G. Walk to Serangoon Bus Interchange (Stop ID 66009). Take bus number 317. Alight 7 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to Lichfield Road. Walk down Lichfield Road. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 18 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Serangoon MRT Station. Take Exit G. Walk to Serangoon Bus Interchange (Stop ID 66009). Take bus number 315. Alight 9 stops later. Walk to Lichfield Road. Turn right and walk down Lichfield Road. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 20 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Lorong Chuan MRT Station. Take Exit B. Cross the road and walk to the bus stop at Goldenhill Park Condo (Stop ID 66701). Take bus number 73. Alight 6 stops later. Walk to Lichfield Road. Turn right and walk down Lichfield Road. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 15 minutes. [Map]




Saturday, April 4, 2026

Orchid Live Seafood @ Seletar Hills Estate - Fresh Live Seafood & Fun Mystery Seafood Bags

Steamed Snow Crab 2

If you are a fan of fresh live seafood, Orchid Live Seafood is probably one of those places that should already be on your radar. Known for its tank-to-table seafood and Teochew-style cooking, this long-standing local favourite has been serving up quality live catches for years, with preparations that let the seafood's natural sweetness shine. On our recent visit to their Jalan Kelulut outlet, we got to try a mix of their signature dishes, seasonal specials, and even their newly launched Mystery Seafood Bag experience, which adds a fun surprise element to the meal.

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Homemade Tofu served with Century Egg & Tobiko 4.5/5

Starting with a cold appetiser, the Homemade Tofu served with Century Egg & Tobiko ($8) was a pleasant surprise. The tofu had a firmer, more custardy texture, with strips of imitation crab meat tucked inside. The century egg purée was well-balanced and not too strong, while the tobiko added a little pop. A simple but enjoyable starter.

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Signature Local Rock Lobster Porridge 5/5

The Signature Local Rock Lobster Porridge ($120 for 1kg) was easily one of our favourite dishes of the meal. Although meant for 4 persons, it can definitely feed 5 to 6 if you are sharing other dishes too. The broth was light yet packed with sweetness from the fresh live rock lobster, making it both comforting and flavourful. A must-order here for that umami punch!

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Steamed Snow Crab 4.5/5

For April, Orchid Live Seafood is offering Live Snow Crab at $78 for 1 or $138 for 2 (U.P. $138/kg). Steamed with egg white, the crab was naturally sweet, letting the freshness shine. A little tip: we added some egg white to the lobster porridge, and it made it even more umami. Do not miss this incredible offer, really value for money!

Plushies

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White Pepper Dungeness Crab 4.5/5

Blind boxes are trending, but have you tried Blind Seafood? Orchid Live Seafood's new Mystery Seafood Bag lets diners pick from two tiers ($48++ / $68++) to reveal a surprise live seafood item at up to 50% off, plus a cute seafood plushie to bring home.

There are a few possible catches, including Bamboo Clams, Boston Lobster, Abalone, Soon Hock, Turbot and Dungeness Crab. We got the Dungeness Crab and had it cooked in white pepper style - fragrant, fresh and super addictive.

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Signature Steven Chicken 4.5/5

Not everything worth ordering here is seafood. The Signature Steven Chicken ($24, medium) is one of the restaurant's long-time favourites, and it's easy to see why. Nicely fried, crispy and coated in a savoury-sweet glaze, sprinkled with sesame seeds - this was a very addictive dish that would appeal to almost everyone at the table, especially the kids.

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Stir Fry Royal Chives 4.5/5

Also known as Qing Long Cai, the Stir Fry Royal Chives ($18, small) was cooked just right, retaining a nice crunch. Light, fresh and simple, it was a good contrast to the richer seafood dishes.

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Overall, Orchid Live Seafood offers fresh live seafood, comforting local-style flavours and good value for the quality. Portions are generous, the staff are friendly, and the dining experience feels fuss-free yet satisfying. It is a great option for family meals and seafood gatherings, and it even has a private dining room for special occasions. They currently have 2 outlets - Jalan Kelulut and HomeTeamNS Khatib.

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Membership Perks

Join Orchid Live Seafood's FREE membership programme and enjoy:
• $10 voucher for your next visit
• 2 x $5 vouchers for your 2nd and 3rd visit
• Earn 1 point for every $10 spent
• Redeem $10 for every 30 points
*T&Cs apply.

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


Orchid Live Seafood
16 Jalan Kelulut
Singapore 809033
Tel: +65 6484 2495
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Nearest MRT: Buangkok (NE Line), Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 230pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to bus stop at Serangoon MRT Station (Stop ID 66351). Take bus number 70, 104. Alight 10 stops later. Walk to Jalan Kelulut. Turn left onto Jalan Kelulut. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 25 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Buangkok MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Buangkok MRT Station (Stop ID 67601). Take bus number 104. Alight 6 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to Jalan Kelulut. Turn left onto Jalan Kelulut. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 16 minutes. [Map]


Friday, June 20, 2025

Oriental Kopi (华阳) @ Nex - Popular Malaysian Kopitiam Chain Opens 2nd Outlet in Singapore

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Oriental Kopi, a well-known Malaysian brand, has become a familiar name among Singaporeans. After the successful launch of its first outlet at Bugis Junction, Oriental Kopi now opens its second outlet at NEX, bringing its award-winning egg tarts and authentic Nanyang flavours to the heartlands.

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Oriental Egg Tarts 4/5

One of their bestsellers, the Oriental Egg Tarts ($5.20 for 2 pieces), has earned recognition in the Malaysia Book of Records for both the "Thickest Egg Tart" and the "Most Number of Egg Tarts Sold." It's a must-order whenever we visit. Served piping hot, the egg tarts feature a flaky, buttery crust and a smooth, creamy custard filling that keeps you coming back for more.

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Double Butter Kaya Toast (Pandan) 4.5/5

We skipped our usual Polo Bun and tried the Double Butter Kaya Toast (Pandan), which has quickly become our new favourite. At $2.60, it features perfectly crisp toast generously spread with rich, pandan-infused kaya and a thick slab of cold butter. The Traditional version is next on our list for future visits.

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Oriental Ice Mocha and Ice The 4/5

For drinks, we ordered the Oriental Ice Mocha ($4.80) and Ice Teh ($3.50), both served in large mugs. Each was well-balanced with just the right blend of richness and sweetness.

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Oriental Signature Nasi Lemak 4/5

For mains, we had the Oriental Signature Nasi Lemak ($9.90), which comes with a large fried drumstick, runny poached egg, crispy ikan bilis, peanuts and sambal chilli. The rice is aromatic without being overly rich in coconut, while the drumstick steals the spotlight, perfectly seasoned and fried to golden crispiness.

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Oriental Curry Laksa 4/5

We also tried the Oriental Curry Laksa ($7.90), served with a generous variety of ingredients in its rich, creamy broth, including long beans, hard-boiled egg, fried beancurd skin, fish cake, fish balls, and shredded chicken. Both mains offer excellent value with their hearty portions and variety.

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Another highlight at Oriental Kopi is their range of retail products, perfect as gifts or souvenirs. Options include Traditional Pan Mee (from $1.90 per packet), brew-at-home sachets of smooth instant white coffee (from $7.30 per box), and handcrafted pineapple tarts ($18.20 per box for Classic, $21.20 for Cheese). To celebrate the Grand Opening of Oriental Kopi at NEX from 11 to 15 June 2025, diners can enjoy a special promotion: buy any three merchandise items and get one free. This exclusive five-day offer is valid while stocks last.

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As part of the celebration, customers who order any Breakfast Value Set between 8am and 10am will receive a free Thermal Cup, available for both dine-in and takeaway.

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


Oriental Kopi
Nex
23 Serangoon Central
#B1-15
Singapore 556083
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Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit G or H. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Joji’s Sandwich Parlour @ Upper Serangoon – A 24 hour Amercian Diner-style Sandwich Joint

Sandwiches

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Nestled near Nex in Serangoon, Joji's Sandwich Parlour, the sister brand of Joji's Diner next door, serves up hearty American-style sandwiches around the clock. This cosy café is perfect for those late-night cravings or a casual meal any time of the day.

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Yuzu Matcha Soda 3.8/5 and Avocado Smoothie 3/5

We started our meal with two beverages. The Yuzu Matcha Soda ($6.90) was a refreshing choice with a citrusy yuzu base and subtle matcha notes, though the flavours could have blended more cohesively. On the other hand, the Avocado Smoothie ($7.90) fell short of expectations — it was served less chilled than we'd prefer, with a somewhat bland flavour profile.

Calamari 1
Fresh Calamari 4/5

The Fresh Calamari ($12), touted as being fresh from Jurong Port, did not disappoint. Each bite was delightfully crispy, with a perfectly seasoned batter that beautifully complemented the fresh squid.

Bang Bang Cauliflower 1
Bang Bang Cauliflower 3.8/5

The Bang Bang Cauliflower ($9) offered promising flavours but didn’t quite hit the mark with texture. While the seasoning was spot-on, the batter lacked crispiness, and the cauliflower's softness from cooking made the interior slightly soggy.

Classic Reuben 1
Classic Reuben 3.8/5

A signature item on Joji's menu, the Classic Reuben ($24) features Black Angus beef brisket brined for 14 days. The brisket was tender and flavourful but leaned on the saltier side midway through the sandwich. Paired with yellow mustard, sauerkraut, and sliced cheese, the flavours were balanced to an extent. Diners can choose between sourdough and focaccia bread. All sandwiches come with two sides, which you can select. We got the Pico De Gallo, a refreshing contrast to the rich sandwich, but the hash left little impression.

Shrimp Po' Boy 1
Shrimp Po’ Boy 4/5

The Shrimp Po'Boy ($22) was the standout of our meal. Generously filled with fresh tiger prawns in a tangy-sweet sauce, this sandwich was paired perfectly with fresh vegetables. The fries were crispy and satisfying, while the coleslaw, topped with diced apples, provided a crisp, refreshing balance.

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Joji's Sandwich Parlour offers a delightful range of sandwiches and sides, perfect for satisfying your cravings any time of the day. While some items could use minor tweaks, the café's dedication to fresh ingredients and bold flavours shines through. Whether you're a sandwich lover or just looking for a cosy 24-hour café, Joji's is worth a visit.

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


Joji's Sandwich Parlour
536 Upper Serangoon Road
Singapore 534551
Tel: +65 91009030
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Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 24 Hours

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Upper Serangoon Road. Walk to destintion. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Yaki Yaki Bo @ NEX – Revamped Grand Menu, Value-for-money Weekdays Set Lunches

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Teppanyaki enthusiasts, rejoice! Yaki Yaki Bo has unveiled a revamped grand menu featuring teppan combos and affordable weekday set lunches starting from just $14.90.

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Sliced Beef - Lunch 1
Sliced Beef Set Lunch 4/5

We tried the Sliced Beef ($16.90) and Chicken Steak ($14.90) lunch sets, with a choice of either black pepper or garlic shoyu sauce for the meats. Each set is accompanied by moyashi (bean sprouts), Japanese steamed rice, miso soup, salad, and homemade pickles. For a small additional fee of $2, you can upgrade to tamago or garlic rice.

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Chicken Steak Set Lunch 4/5

The Sliced Beef Set Lunch offers tender, juicy cuts of beef, perfectly cooked to your preferred doneness. The Chicken Steak Set Lunch is another solid choice, with tender, succulent pieces of chicken that are pan-seared to perfection. Other set lunch options include Sliced Pork and Shiromi Fish, both priced at $14.90, offering the same value and delicious combinations.

Mentaiko Takana Fried Rice 1
Mentaiko Takana Fried Rice 3.5/5

We ventured into the grand menu with the Mentaiko Takana Fried Rice ($5.90), a smoky fried rice dish infused with the prized umami of mentaiko and Japanese pickled mustard greens. While flavourful, the mentaiko taste was more subtle than we had hoped.

Gindara Tsutsumi Yaki 1
Gindara Tsutsumi Yaki 4.2/5

Highly recommended by the staff, the Gindara Tsutsumi Yaki ($19.90) features a generous portion of black cod simmered with mushrooms in a citrusy, flavourful broth. This dish was a standout, and we would definitely return for it.

Tenderloin Steak 1
Tenderloin Steak 4/5

One of the must-try new dishes is the Tenderloin Steak ($30.90). It boasts a tender and flavourful prime cut of meat, making it a perfect choice for beef lovers.

Camembert Cheese Lava Okonomiyaki 1
Camembert Cheese Lava Okonomiyaki 3.5/5

The Camembert Cheese Lava Okonomiyaki ($18.90) elevates this classic dish with melted camembert at its centre. Unfortunately, our experience didn't achieve the full "lava" effect, as the cheese wasn't as molten as expected.

Camembert Cheese Lava Okonomiyaki 3

However, the combination of flavours remained delightful. The pancake is packed with crunchy vegetables like cabbage, which gives it a satisfying bite, while the exterior is crispy and well-grilled. If the cheese melted more thoroughly, it could elevate the dish to another level of indulgence. Still, even without it, this unique take on okonomiyaki is a flavourful treat worth trying for cheese lovers.

Hanpen Cheese Yaki 1
Hanpen Cheese Yaki 4/5

To satisfy our cheese cravings, we tried the Hanpen Cheese Yaki ($8.90), a delightful Japanese fish cake filled with gooey, melty cheese and grilled to perfection with a crispy exterior.

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The soft texture of the hanpen paired with its crispy exterior made this a perfect shareable dish.

Ambience

For seating, you can opt for counter seats to watch the skilled teppanyaki chefs in action or choose a side table if you prefer a more relaxed dining experience. For those seeking variety, the Teppan Combos start at $23.90, featuring a choice of beef, chicken, or pork paired with seafood such as buttery Shiromi or fresh Ebi.

At both Nex and Jurong Point outlets, weekday set lunches are available from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm, excluding public holidays. Enjoy special Purchase-With-Purchase promotions until 30 November 2024 to celebrate the new menu. With any main dish, you can add on a glass of Hanzo Kaminoho Junmai Daiginjo (60ml) or a Crème Brûlée with Matcha Gelato for just $5.00.

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


Yaki Yaki Bo
NEX
23 Serangoon Central
#B1-79
Singaore 556083
Tel: +65 6634 0015
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]