Racines @ Softitel City Centre - The Ultimate Racines Buffet Brunch: Straits Edition

The Ultimate Racines Buffet Brunch returns at Racines with an exciting new chapter as the beloved weekend experience is reimagined through the rich and comforting flavours of Straits heritage cuisine. Available exclusively on Saturdays, the new Straits Edition brings together nostalgic local favourites alongside premium seafood, live carving stations and indulgent desserts, delivering a brunch experience that beautifully blends tradition with contemporary refinement.

The feast begins with an impressive selection of fresh Seafood on Ice, featuring freshly shucked seasonal oysters, poached tiger prawns, mussels and white clams. Seafood lovers can also enjoy fresh salmon sashimi alongside an assortment of sushi and maki, making it an excellent start to the leisurely brunch.

One of the interactive highlights is the D.I.Y. Kueh Pie Tee Station, where diners can customise their own bite-sized treats. Fill the crisp pastry shells with braised turnips, prawns and chopped eggs before topping them with crushed peanuts, crispy shallots, coriander, chilli sauce and sweet sauce for a delicious combination of textures and flavours.

A nostalgic touch comes in the form of a traditional local breakfast favourite. Freshly toasted Kaya and Butter Toast are served alongside perfectly cooked soft-boiled eggs, recreating one of Singapore’s most iconic breakfast combinations that never fails to satisfy.

The carving station is another must-visit, showcasing beautifully Roasted Suckling Pig and Crispy Pork Belly. Both were exceptionally well executed, with crisp crackling giving way to tender, juicy meat, making them easily among our favourite dishes from the brunch spread.

For those craving comforting local noodles, the D.I.Y. Noodle Station allows diners to customise their own bowls of Singapore Laksa or Lor Mee. With a selection of toppings and freshly prepared broths, it’s a satisfying station that caters to different flavour preferences.

The Straits favourites continue to impress with an array of hearty local classics. Highlights include the Singapore Chilli Prawns served with fried mantou, Dang Gui Herbal Roasted Duck and Wok-fried Black Pepper Prawns, each delivering bold and familiar flavours. The Wok-braised Seafood Hokkien Mee is equally enjoyable, packed with seafood and infused with rich umami notes that make it difficult to stop at just one serving.

Be sure to leave room for dessert, as more than ten sweet creations await to round off the brunch. Highlights include the fragrant Cempedak Crème Brûlée, nostalgic Ondeh-Ondeh Cake, Air Bandung Panna Cotta and an assortment of colourful Nyonya Kuehs. The dessert selection beautifully bridges French pastry techniques with familiar local flavours, making for a memorable finale.

Another nostalgic treat not to be missed is the Local Ice Cream Sandwich Station, where creamy ice cream is tucked between slices of soft rainbow bread. I opted for the Raspberry Ripple flavour, and it instantly brought back childhood memories, making it one of my favourite desserts of the afternoon.

For a fun finishing touch, head over to the Teh Tarik Station where diners can try their hand at pulling their own frothy cup of Singapore’s favourite milk tea, adding an interactive element to the overall brunch experience.

The Ultimate Racines Buffet Brunch: Straits Edition is available every Saturday from 12:30pm to 3:00pm, from 6 June to 31 October 2026. To celebrate the launch, all Accor Plus Explorer members can enjoy an introductory 50% savings and receive a complimentary bottle of Piccini Prosecco with every four adult diners from 6 to 30 June 2026. In addition, DBS, OCBC, Citi, JCB, and Maybank cardholders enjoy 40% off the adult buffet price for up to 8 diners, making it an even more attractive weekend indulgence.

The Ultimate Racines Buffet Brunch: Straits Edition
Every Saturday from 6 June to 31 October 2026
12:30pm to 3pm
$128++ per adult, $64++ per child

Words and photos by Crystal. A lady who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Racines
Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Level 5
9 Wallich Street
Singapore 078885
Tel: +65 64285000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 7am - 1030am, 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right onto Peck Seah Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Racines @ Sofitel Singapore City Centre - Flavours From The Heart

Racines at Sofitel Singapore City Centre unveils a brand-new menu, “Home: Flavours from the Heart”, introducing Straits heritage cuisine inspired by memory, migration, and home kitchens. Racines’ Asian repertoire has long been established, and this latest chapter builds on that foundation with more than 20 Asian and Straits-inspired dishes.

Tahu Telur 4/5

We started with two appetisers. Tahu Telur ($18) is a classic Indonesian-style tofu omelette featuring fried tofu and egg, skilfully formed into a cylindrical shape, crisp on the outside with a soft, tender core. Topped with shredded cucumber and turnips for a refreshing contrast, the rich, robust peanut sauce complemented the dish without overwhelming it.

Penang Fruit Rojak 4.5/5

The Penang Fruit Rojak ($20) combines crunchy jicama, cucumber and pineapple with crispy dough fritters, crispy cuttlefish and peanuts. The dough fritters were satisfyingly chunky, with a good amount of crunch, and everything was evenly coated in a well-balanced Penang-style shrimp dressing. I would have loved a little more ginger flower to further elevate the dish’s distinctive floral fragrance.

Nyonya Assam Curry Snapper 4.8/5

For mains, the Nyonya Assam Curry Snapper ($38) stood out as one of the signature dishes. Featuring fried snapper served in a tangy tamarind-based assam curry, it comes accompanied by okra, eggplant and beancurd puffs. The restaurant prepares its assam paste from scratch, resulting in a robust and moreish curry that left a strong impression. Crispy rice-paper “scales” added texture to the fish, though even without them, the snapper was expertly fried with a crisped exterior while retaining its tender, moist flesh.

Sweet & Sour Pork 4/5

The Sweet & Sour Pork ($38) was a crowd-pleaser. The pork morsels were tender, with a good balance of fat and lean, while the batter coating remained light and not overly thick. The sauce was delectable without being excessively sweet.

Singapore Style Hokkien Mee 5/5

Singapore Style Hokkien Mee ($28) remains a mainstay on the menu and is truly delicious. Yellow noodles and rice vermicelli bathed in a full-bodied prawn and pork broth delivered impressive depth of flavour. Brimming with roasted pork, tiger prawns and squid, every bite was mouth-filling and satisfying, with a gentle hint of wok hei. A squeeze of calamansi and a dollop of sambal belacan further amplified the flavours.

Wok-Fried Beef Hor Fun 3.5/5

On the other hand, I found the gravy in the Wok-Fried Beef Hor Fun ($28) slightly too heavily seasoned and rich for my preference. That said, the wok hei was impressive, and the beef slices were pleasingly tender.

Pandan Coconut Jelly 4/5, Cempedak Creme Brulee 3/5

For dessert, we had the Cempedak Creme Brulee and Pandan Coconut Jelly. While the creme brulee offered a delightful fusion of French technique and local flavours, I preferred the pandan coconut jelly for its lightness and refreshing finish, making it a more fitting conclusion to the meal.

To celebrate the launch of HOME: Flavours from the Heart, you can explore the new Straits-inspired repertoire through both the à la carte menu and the Feast of the Straits dinner buffet, with attractive promotions available for Accor Plus members and selected credit card holders.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Racines
Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Level 5
9 Wallich Street
Singapore 078885
Tel: +65 64285000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 7am - 1030am, 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right on Peck Seah Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Satori @ Amoy Street - Vibey Yakitori Spot Serving Over 50 Skewers at Wallet-Friendly Prices

Satori at Amoy Street fires up the grill with a lively, no-frills yakitori concept that strikes a compelling balance between omakase-level precision and the spirited energy of a modern Japanese tavern. Helmed by Chef Wilson, a protégé of yakitori master Chef Shyong from sister restaurant Sapōto, the concept brings serious grilling credentials into a more accessible, vibey setting.

With over 50 skewers on the menu priced from just $3.80, Satori is designed for both casual diners looking for a quick bite and enthusiasts eager to explore a wide spectrum of yakitori cuts.

Nori Salad 3.5/5

We began with the Nori Salad ($9.80), a refreshing starter that goes beyond the usual greens. Crisp lettuce and nori form the base, but what sets it apart is the addition of crispy whitebait scattered throughout. These tiny fish lend a delightful crunch and an umami punch, elevating the dish with both texture and depth. It’s a simple yet thoughtful composition that whets the appetite nicely.

Truffle Chawanmushi 4/5

The Truffle Chawanmushi ($9.80) is a crowd-pleasing classic done right. Silky smooth and delicately steamed, the custard melts effortlessly on the palate. The truffle oil is unmistakable, perfuming each spoonful with an earthy richness that feels indulgent without overwhelming the dish’s inherent lightness. It’s a comforting prelude to the heavier grilled items.

Tsukune (Minced Chicken)

Seseri Neck

Cherry Tomato

Bonjiri (Tail)

Sunagimo (Gizzard)

Shishito (Green Pepper)

Tebasaki (Mid Wing) / Chef’s Yakitori Set 4/5

To get a proper sense of Satori’s yakitori prowess, the Chef’s Selection Yakitori Set ($29.80) is an excellent starting point. Comprising seven skewers — including four chicken cuts, one organ, and two vegetables — it offers a well-rounded introduction to the menu. Each skewer is grilled over binchotan charcoal, imparting a deep, smoky aroma while preserving the ingredients’ natural juiciness.

The tsukune (minced chicken) is tender and well-seasoned, with a slight bounce and savoury glaze that lingers. Seseri (neck) delivers a satisfying chew with rich chicken flavour, while bonjiri (tail) stands out for its fatty, melt-in-the-mouth decadence. The sunagimo (gizzard) offers a firmer bite, adding textural contrast to the lineup. On the vegetable front, the shishito pepper provides a mild, smoky sweetness, and the cherry tomato bursts with juicy brightness, acting as a refreshing counterpoint. The tebasaki (mid-wing) rounds out the set with juicy meat beneath lightly crisped skin.

Mini Unagi Don 4/5

For something more substantial, the Mini Unagi Don ($16.80) makes for a satisfying companion. The grilled eel is glazed with a luscious sweet-savoury sauce that seeps into the fluffy Japanese rice beneath. A glossy egg yolk adds creaminess, balancing the sweetness, while slices of cucumber inject a welcome crunch and freshness. Despite its “mini” label, it feels hearty enough to anchor the meal.

Chicken Heart 4/5

Pork Belly with Lettuce 4.2/5

We also explored a few additional skewers. The Chicken Heart ($3.80) impresses with its clean, rich flavour and springy texture, free from any metallic aftertaste that sometimes plagues organ meats. The Pork Belly with Lettuce ($6.80) is particularly enjoyable — the pork belly renders beautifully over the grill, achieving a smoky, slightly crisp exterior. At the same time, the lettuce inside remains lightly wilted yet refreshing. It’s a clever combination, with the lettuce acting as a natural palate cleanser against the richness of the pork.

Beef Tongue 4.2/5

The Beef Tongue ($13.80) is grilled quickly over high heat, resulting in a caramelised char on the edges while retaining a tender bite. Its inherent fattiness and deep beefy flavour are enhanced by the smokiness from the binchotan, making it one of the more indulgent skewers on the menu.

Overall, Satori succeeds in delivering quality yakitori without the stiffness of a traditional omakase setting. The skewers are thoughtfully executed, the menu is extensive yet approachable, and the atmosphere encourages lingering over drinks and multiple rounds of skewers. It’s the kind of place where you can drop by for a casual bite or settle in for a full-on yakitori feast with friends — all without breaking the bank.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Satori
89 Amoy Street
Singapore 069908
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sukiyaki Yotaro @ Tanjong Pagar Road - A Dual-Style Wagyu Sukiyaki Experience in a Cozy Kyoto-Inspired Setting

Located at Tanjong Pagar Road, Sukiyaki Yotaro offers a refreshing take on the traditional Japanese hot pot experience. This intimate shophouse restaurant brings diners on a thoughtfully curated culinary journey, showcasing premium Wagyu beef flown directly from Japan. With its rustic, izakaya-style interior and warm, attentive service, the restaurant sets the stage for a memorable and immersive meal.

What truly distinguishes Sukiyaki Yotaro is its unique two-part sukiyaki experience — seamlessly guiding diners through both Kansai-style (grilled) and Kanto-style (simmered) preparations. This dual approach allows one to appreciate the nuanced characteristics of Wagyu in different cooking styles, elevating the dining experience beyond the ordinary.

Japanese Wagyu Beef Tartar 4.2/5

We began the evening with a selection of starters, starting with the Japanese Wagyu Beef Tartar ($20). Finely chopped premium Wagyu is crowned with a luscious golden egg yolk, creating a visually inviting dish. Once mixed, the yolk lends a velvety richness that complements the beef’s natural sweetness and umami. The delicate marbling melts effortlessly on the palate, delivering a clean yet indulgent start to the meal.

Steamed Oyster Soaked in Garlic Oil 4.2/5

Next, the Steamed Oyster Soaked in Garlic Oil ($12) offered a briny, aromatic contrast. The oyster was plump and juicy, its natural oceanic sweetness enhanced by the fragrant garlic oil. The infusion of savoury depth rounded out the flavours beautifully without overpowering the freshness of the seafood, serving as a bright and appetising prelude to the richer courses ahead.

Simmered Pork Loin Cutlet 4/5

The Simmered Pork Loin Cutlet ($20), prepared in a comforting Katsutoji style, brought a homely touch to the spread. The golden-fried pork cutlet is gently simmered in a sweet-savoury dashi broth and topped with a soft, barely set egg. Despite the simmering process, the pork retained its tenderness, while the panko crust soaked up the flavourful broth. Each bite was a harmonious blend of textures — crisp, juicy, and silky.

Japanese Wagyu Marbled Beef with Vegetables 4.8/5

The highlight of the meal is undoubtedly the sukiyaki. The experience begins with the Kansai-style Japanese Wagyu Marbled Beef with Vegetables ($53/100g). Prepared tableside by the attentive staff, the Wagyu is grilled on a hot pan, allowing the fat to render and caramelise lightly. This method brings out the pure, robust flavour of the beef. Enjoyed first with a light dashi and leeks, and then dipped into raw egg yolk, the beef delivers an indulgent, creamy richness that lingers on the palate.

Following this, the meal transitions into the Kanto-style sukiyaki, where a medley of vegetables is simmered in a sweet-savoury house broth. The broth gradually absorbs the essence of the Wagyu, deepening in flavour as the meal progresses.

Japanese Wagyu Lean Beef with Vegetables 4.5/5

Diners then swish slices of both Japanese Wagyu Marbled Beef with Vegetables ($53/100g) and Japanese Wagyu Lean Beef with Vegetables ($43/100g) into the bubbling broth. Cooked just briefly to retain a tender, medium-rare finish, the beef takes on a comforting, umami-rich profile. This second phase offers a heartwarming contrast to the bold, direct flavours of the Kansai style.

To conclude the savoury portion, we opted for rice. The staff thoughtfully cracked an egg into the remaining broth, creating a rich, flavourful mixture that coats the rice beautifully. It is a simple yet deeply satisfying finale.

Coffee Jelly 4/5

Dessert was equally delightful. The Coffee Jelly ($8) featured a delicate, jiggly texture with a well-balanced bitterness and subtle sweetness. Paired with creamy ice cream, the contrast between the cold, velvety dairy and the light, bouncy jelly created an addictive finish.

Oba Sorbet 4.2/5

The Oba (Shiso) Sorbet ($6) provided a refreshing end to the meal. Light and aromatic, it captured the herbaceous essence of shiso with hints of mint, basil, and citrus. Its clean, icy texture made it a perfect palate cleanser after the richness of the Wagyu.

Sukiyaki Yotaro delivers more than just a meal. It offers a thoughtfully paced dining experience that celebrates the versatility and quality of Japanese Wagyu. From the attentive service to the dual-style sukiyaki concept, every element is designed to engage and satisfy. For those seeking an authentic yet unique Japanese hot pot experience in Singapore, this cosy spot is well worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sukiyaki Yotaro
106 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088525
Tel: +65 97311136
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Thu: 530pm - 11pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Turn left onto Duxton Hill towards Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn right onto Tanjong Pagar Road and walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road. Turn right and walk to the destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]