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

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.

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.

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 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 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 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.

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]

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

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.

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.

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 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 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 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 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.

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 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.

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

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]

Soup Restaurant Celebrates 33rd Anniversary with New Dishes and Promotions

A beloved staple in Singapore’s dining scene, Soup Restaurant has been serving comforting, home-cooked food for 33 years, and their iconic Samsui Ginger Chicken remains a fan favourite. To commemorate this milestone, Soup Restaurant rolled out four exciting new dishes alongside enticing anniversary promotions.

Tiger Prawn with Bee Hoon Soup 4/5

The hearty Tiger Prawn with Bee Hoon ($18.90) boasts a rich prawn broth, simmered for over four hours to achieve deep umami flavours, lightly enhanced with ginger. While the prawns could be larger, the overall experience is satisfying and perfect for a comforting meal.

Choy Sum with Minced Pork and Sweet Turnip 3/5

A simple yet wholesome Choy Sum with Minced Pork and Sweet Turnip ($15.90) featuring fresh, crunchy choy sum paired with savoury minced pork. However, the flavour of the sweet turnip was barely noticeable, leaving us wanting more from this otherwise homey dish.

Other new additions include Honey Glazed Ginger Chicken ($17.90) and Steamed Fish Slices with Samsui Ginger Sauce ($18.90), the latter showcasing the restaurant's famed ginger sauce.

Samsui Ginger Chicken 4/5

No visit to Soup Restaurant is complete without their signature Samsui Ginger Chicken. The tender poached chicken, perfectly paired with their fragrant ginger sauce, is a must-have that never disappoints.

Soup of the Day 3.5/5

The Shark Fin Melon Soup we tried was a light and refreshing option. The melon was cooked just right, soft yet intact, adding a nice texture to the otherwise simple broth.

Claypot Tofu 3/5

The Claypot Tofu features tender tofu in a savoury gravy, ideal for pairing with a bowl of rice. While it's a comforting dish, it lacks a standout element that elevates it beyond the ordinary.

Dessert of the day 2.8/5

We concluded with the White Fungus with Gingko Nuts, but unfortunately, the texture of the white fungus fell short, lacking the desired softness, and the overall flavour profile was underwhelming.

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


Soup Restaurant
NEX
23 Serangoon Central 
#02-15/16
Singapore 556083
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Website
Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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

YUN NANS (云海肴) @ NEX - 50% Off Selected Dishes From 24 May to 1 August 2024

YUN NANS, a familiar name among Singaporeans, has introduced an innovative concept with YUN NANS Home at three of their heartland outlets. This new venture showcases authentic home recipes from Yunnan, featuring affordable prices and a delightful array of new dishes. One of the standout features of YUN NANS Home is its inviting and cosy atmosphere, reminiscent of a warm family dining experience. It's an ideal setting for enjoying hearty meals with loved ones. We tried an array of new and best-selling signature dishes. Let's start with the new ones.

Garlic Vermicelli Shrimp Casserole 4.5/5

The Garlic Vermicelli Shrimp Casserole ($26.90) is an absolute delight! Bursting with the aroma of fragrant garlic, fresh shrimp, and perfectly cooked vermicelli. This dish evokes memories of the classic Thai Goong Ob Woosen with a distinct Chinese twist. What sets it apart is the innovative use of a casserole, which keeps the dish warm without risking burnt vermicelli at the bottom, a common issue with traditional claypot serving. Every strand of vermicelli is lovingly coated in a flavourful sauce that harmonises the essence of garlic throughout. It is a perfect balance of flavours and textures that is simply irresistible.

Surprise Crispy Rice Stir-Fry 4.5/5

Intrigued by the promise of a 'surprise,' we were eager to try the Surprise Crispy Rice Stir-Fry ($11.90) and were pleasantly surprised by its delightful blend of crunchy puffed rice and the added texture of tobiko. Each grain of rice is evenly coated in a savoury soy sauce, enhancing its crunchiness and flavour profile. The dish also boasts a beautiful wok-hei aroma that leaves a lingering desire for more bites.

Dried Scallop and Seafood with Loofah Gourd 3.8/5

We were told that this dish uses only young loofah gourd imported directly from Yunnan for its tender texture, paired with dried scallop, dried shrimps and clams. Dried Scallop and Seafood with Loofah Gourd ($15.90) is a comforting home-style dish that evokes memories of a dish prepared by one's mother at home. However, we found the flavour profile to be a touch too subtle for our palates. While the dish showcases fresh ingredients and a comforting texture, we wished for a more robust depth of flavours.

Sichuan Boiled Fish 3.8/5

Bringing Sichuan classics to the table is the Sichuan Boiled Fish ($34.90), which features tender fish slices, crunchy bean sprouts, and black fungus immersed in a numbingly spicy broth. Nestled beneath is vermicelli that absorbs the aromatic broth, adding an extra dimension to the dish's texture. While we appreciated the dish's nuanced flavours and textures, our rating reflects a preference among hardcore Sichuan flavour enthusiasts for a more robust, spicier profile. However, it's worth noting that one of our parties, who typically avoid spicy foods, found this dish surprisingly enjoyable and ranked it among their top three favourites from our tasting session.

Boneless Spicy Chicken with Sichuan Peppercorns 4/5

Another Sichuan favourite, the Boneless Spicy Chicken with Sichuan Peppercorns ($16.90), showcases bite-sized pieces of boneless chicken thigh deep-fried to a perfect crispness. The chicken is generously coated with fragrant dried chillies and Sichuan peppercorns, delivering a balanced blend of heat and numbing spice. This dish disappeared from our table quickly, leaving us digging for more pieces of chicken that might be hidden underneath the mountain of dried chilli.

Steam Pot Chicken Soup 4/5

One of YUN NANS' signature dishes is the Steam Pot Chicken Soup ($29.90), prepared in a traditional handmade Jianshui claypot. This exquisite dish is made without a single drop of water, preserving the pure essence of its ingredients to deliver a light yet flavourful chicken soup. The broth is remarkably clean and free from any greasiness. Crunchy bean sprouts with chilli, peppercorn and an appetising spicy sauce accompany this delightful soup. This clever addition allows diners to create a unique cold dish by mixing the tender chicken pieces from the soup, elevating the dining experience.

Poached Pork Collar with Pickled Chilli 4.2/5

Lastly, we savoured another signature dish, the Poached Pork Collar with Pickled Chilli ($21.90-S/$27.90-L), a dish that had us reaching for more rice than usual. The broth was exceptionally flavourful with a slight spiciness, and tender pork collar slices were swimming in it. Accompanying the dish were slivers of fried potato that retained their texture and didn't become mushy. The pickled mustard greens elevated the broth, reminiscent of the vibrant flavours of another Sichuan favourite - Suan Cai Yu. This hearty dish delighted our taste buds and warmed our hearts.

As part of this new concept, Yunnan has released 20 new home recipes, and selected dishes will be 50% off from 24 May to 1 August 2024. YUN NANS Home is available at its heartland outlets, Nex, Northpoint City, and Westgate.

Other new dishes include the Pork Belly with String Beans Shoots, Home-style Minced Pork with Eggplant Casserole, Spare Ribs Braised with Bitter Melon in Fermented Black Bean Sauce, Shanghai Stir-fried Rice Cake, Mom's Braised Pig's Feet and more.

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


YUN NANS (云海肴)
NEX
23 Serangoon Central
Bl-15
Singapore 556083
Tel: +65 69707883
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 10pm

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

Yuiitsu Yakiniku & Butchery @ Jalan Riang - Unlimited A5 Wagyu Buffet at $79.80++

Nestled in the quaint estate of Serangoon, Yuiitsu Yakiniku & Butchery is a hidden gem that offers a buffet extravaganza unlike any other. It boasts unlimited servings of Japanese A5 Wagyu beef and more at only $79.80++ per person or $59.80++ per person (without A5 Wagyu).

The A5 Wagyu comes in 200g per serving, and you can order as much as you can! The marbling on the cut gives it a melt-in-your-mouth texture. We got the onsen egg and used it as a dipping sauce! They also provide two dipping sauces and sea salt, so you get a variety of tastes in every bite.

Yuiitsu Yakiniku 4/5

Other cuts, such as Short Rib, Flap, and Shabu Shabbu, and unique options like gyu tongue, are also available.

We love the marinated Pork Belly with a good meat and fat ratio. Increase the heat when grilling them to get a nice crisp and charred.

The Pork Jowl has a nice crunch. What's even more enjoyable is watching the fat sizzle and the meat caramelise before your eyes as you cook it. You can't help but feel a sense of anticipation building.

The buffet menu also includes half-shell scallops, oysters and prawns. The scallops are topped with garlic butter sauce and oysters in kaki sauce, which are both very flavourful. A variety of mushrooms and vegetables are also available, which are good to have in between all the meats. We also ordered a slice of pineapple. If you have yet to try grilled pineapple, please do! The caramelised natural sugar made it extra sweet and is a great palette cleanser. We wish they have thinner slices without the skin which we feel will be better and faster for grilling.

If you need carbs, they have garlic fried rice, which is flavourful with crispy garlic pieces. They also have Udon if you prefer noodles.

They also have a retail section where you can buy quality cuts of meats to cook at home. There is a seasonal 1-for-1 promotion, too!

Overall, it was a nice, cosy place for a good feast. The meats served are all very fresh! However, be prepared to smell like BBQ afterwards, as we found the exhaust was not as great.

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


Yuiitsu Yakiniku & Butchery
15 Jalan Riang
Singapore 358987
Tel: +65 8930 8351
Facebook
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Nearest MRT: Lorong Chuan (CC Line), Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 11.30am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk to Serangoon Bus Interchange (Stop ID 66009). Take bus number 105. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to Jalan Girang. Turn right onto Jalan Girang. At the junction of Jalan Girang, turn left and walk down Jalan Girang towards Jalan Riang. Turn right onto Jalan Riang. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Serangoon MRT station (Stop ID 62139). Take bus number 100, 107, 147, 153 or 853. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road to Wolskel Road. Walk down Wolskel Road to Jalan Riang. Turn right onto Jalan Riang. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Lorong Chuan MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Lor Chuan MRT station. (Stop ID 66391) Take bus 58 or 105. Alight one stop later. Cross the road and wlk to Jalan Girang. At the junction of Jalan Girang, turn left and walk down Jalan Girang towards Jalan Riang. Turn right onto Jalan Riang. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]