Showing posts with label .Station: Tanjong Pagar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Station: Tanjong Pagar. Show all posts

Friday, March 7, 2025

Murger Han @ Shenton Way - London Famous Xi'an Restaurant Opens In Singapore Serving Signature Biang Biang Noodles

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UK-based Murger Han has built a strong following across its four London outlets for its authentic Xi'an cuisine. Now, it has opened its first Asian outpost in Singapore at Robinson Centre.

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3-in-1 Noodles 4.5/5

The casual eatery offers its signature dishes at reasonable prices, with the highlight being its hand-pulled Biang Biang Noodles. We tried the 3-in-1 Noodles ($8.80), featuring a mix of tomato egg sauce, spring onion, chilli oil, and stir-fried vegetables. For the protein, diners can choose from Braised Pork, Slow-Cooked Lamb, Slow-Cooked Beef, or Beef Brisket. We opted for braised pork.

I loved the thick and chewy noodles paired with well-balanced flavours of sweetness, savouriness, and a touch of tang.

For those wanting more variety, the 5-in-1 Noodles ($9.80) include two meat choices, while simpler options such as Spring Onion & Chili Oil Noodles ($6.80) and Tomato & Egg Sauce Noodles ($6.80) are also available.

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Crusty Murger with Pork 3.8/5

Another signature is the murger, available with a normal or crispy crust and a choice of fillings. We tried the Crusty Murger with Pork ($5.80), but while the bread was flaky, it lacked crunch, and we found the filling slightly too salty. Other options include Lean Pork and Spicy Chicken with Peppers and Cumin.

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Steamed Rice Noodles with Seasonal Vegetables 4/5

We also had the Steamed Rice Noodles with Seasonal Vegetables ($6.80), which were fresh, slightly chewy, and well-seasoned. We added a portion of Sesame Sauce ($1), which contributed a creamy nuttiness, though we wished the chilli oil had packed more heat.

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Lamb Soup with Tofu, Vermicelli and Vegetables 4/5

For something warm, the Lamb Soup with Tofu, Vermicelli, and Vegetables ($7.80) was substantial. It featured lamb slices, vermicelli, and small dough-like noodles. While I found the lamb's gaminess very strong, my dining partner enjoyed the comforting broth.

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Mixed Salad 2/5

However, the Mixed Salad ($7.80) was the least impressive, as the flavours were relatively muted.

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.


Murger Han
Robinson Centre
#01-02
61 Robinson Road
Singapore 068893
Tel: +65 6970 0286
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Website
Nearest MRT: Shenton Way (TE Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Downtown (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily 11am - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit 6. Walk to Mccallum Street. Turn left and walk down Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Boon Tat Link. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to Robinson Road. Turn left and walk down Robinson Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to Commerce Street. Turn right and walk down Commerce Street. Turn left onto Boon Tat Link. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]


Monday, February 24, 2025

Latido @ Tras Street - Singapore's First and Only Colombian Restaurant

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Latido celebrates the vibrant, playful culture of Latin America. It is led by veteran Chef Fernando Arévalo, who hails from Bogotá, Colombia, but has considered Singapore his home for over a decade. Chef Arévalo's impressive background and previous concepts include the highly regarded Preludio and Bacatá.

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Latido offers dishes that work well to introduce Colombian food to the local Singaporean palate whilst providing a few more unique dishes to pique the interest of the adventurous, such as chicken hearts and rabbit meat. The menu concisely reflects the recent trend in diner's preferences. It is offered in an à la carte format, allowing diners to curate their own experience and choose dishes at their own pace and comfort level. They also offer a very tempting lunch deal, which is worth checking out.

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The restaurant is very spacious, a luxury in the Tanjong Pagar area. Spanning two shophouses, the restaurant offers two distinct dining areas with different vibes. One side features a long chef's table crafted from Brazilian wood, allowing diners to watch the chefs work up close. This brightly lit area creates a lively, casual, and relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of dining at a close friend's house. On the other side, the ambience shifts to a more intimate setting with individual tables and mood lighting, offering a cosier dining experience. The restaurant is also decorated with arts and crafts sourced from indigenous Colombian tribes. Look out for the unique wine bottle carved out of a hoof!

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Bocados de Tiradito 4/5

Bocado translates to mean a mouthful or a bite, and we started our dinner with two flavourful bites: one with Tiradito, a lighter version of ceviche, and one with white corn.

The Bocados de Tiradito ($22) looks like the local favourite Kueh Pie Tee but is filled with ceviche. Sawara (Spanish Mackerel) is used, with leche de Tigre and pearls of lime vinegar inside the kueh pie tee shell, infused with coriander seed. It's tasty, with a bit of a creaminess, but not as much of the brightness that I'm used to with cured fish.

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Bocados de Maiz 4.5/5

The Bocados de Maiz ($16) was new and interesting for me. Very crunchy white corn is on top of a crispy cassava tart base, layered with avocado mousse and a touch of Aji Amarillo (chilli pepper). Palm sugar pearls contribute a hint of sweetness. The dish is finished with parmesan cheese shavings. A lovely combination of flavours and textures!

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Pan de la Casa 4.5/5

Next, we had Chef Fernando's signature rye bread, Pan de la Casa ($8), a recipe he has perfected over the years. The rye bread is glazed with fermented mushrooms and maple, and you can taste the earthy flavour coming through. It's paired with a rich, caramelised-infused butter that I happily slathered all over my bread.

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Arepa de Chocolo Y Huevo 4.8/5

The Arepa is a traditional cornmeal flatbread with roots in indigenous Colombian culture, offering what feels like a cross between a pancake and a taco. Chef Fernando shared that there are many regional variations of the Arepa, and this particular version hails from the Northern part of Colombia. The Arepa de Chocolo y Huevo ($22) features a sweetcorn cake stuffed with a fried egg, and savoury cured pork jowl, which is finished with a touch of spicy paprika. Absolutely delicious, a must-try!

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Arepan Conejo 4.5/5

Next, we tried a unique dish featuring braised rabbit, which is not so commonly served in Singapore. The Arepan Conejo ($38) stars tender, juicy rabbit sourced from Hungary, served on a cassava wrap that has a nice chewy, mochi-like texture. The dish is complemented by bacon, parmesan cheese, and pickled onions. It's recommended to fold it up and enjoy it with your hands, letting the tasty juices drip as you savour each bite. The rabbit itself has a mild, chicken-like flavour and is cooked till very tender.

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Sopa Langousta 4.5/5

The Sopa Langousta ($50) is expertly crafted. It features lobster that's lightly poached to retain a sashimi-like texture. The dish also includes chunks of creamy avocado, delightful corn bits, and a warm, velvety potato soup to tie everything together.

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Lechonista 4.2/5

We eagerly anticipated the Lechonista ($38 per 100g), especially after watching the preparation of the suckling pig while enjoying other courses. It's served pulled pork style with pickled chilli and paired with cassava wraps, pork jus sauce, and pickled onions.

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We were encouraged to wrap everything together for an enjoyable bite. What I really appreciated about this dish is that this suckling pig dish didn't have the strong, sometimes overwhelming pork flavour that you may find in other preparations.

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Plantainitos 4.2/5

There's only one dessert option on the menu — Plantainitos ($16) — and it showcases plantains, which are starchy fruits similar to bananas but typically less sweet. Plantains can be used ripe or unripe, and the ripe version is chosen for this dessert. A layer of cake made with dates, toffee, and rum is topped with smooth, creamy burrata ice cream.

It was a fun evening exploring Colombian ingredients and flavours, presented in a way that was accessible and delicious for our taste buds. We also appreciated the warm service and the friendly hospitality from the staff, which contributed to the overall experience.

Penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Latido
40 Tras Street
Singapore 078979
Tel: +65 89618191
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Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight
Sat: 6pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, February 23, 2025

The House of Ghungdam @ Duxton Road - The House of Korean Grill and Dish

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The House of Gungdam is the latest addition to Duxton Road, offering a contemporary Korean barbecue experience in a stylish modern hanok-inspired interior. Guests can choose between counter or table seating, with charcoal and gas grilling options available. During our visit, we opted for counter seating, where we enjoyed the charcoal grilling experience, allowing the smoky aroma to elevate the meats.

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Boneless Short Rib 4.5/5

We indulged in the House Feast Set ($129 for 2 pax), which includes:

- Boneless Short Rib
- Marinated Boneless Short Rib
- Thinly Sliced Brisket
- Soy Bean Soup, Banchan, Steamed Egg, and Vegetables

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We began with the Boneless Short Rib, expertly grilled over charcoal by the staff. The smoky aroma beautifully enhanced the natural richness of the beef, which was tender, juicy, and packed with flavour. With minimal seasoning, the quality of the meat truly shined, allowing for a pure appreciation of its robust taste.

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Thinly Sliced Brisket 4.5/5

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Next, we had the Thinly Sliced Brisket, which featured excellent marbling that melted in the mouth upon each bite. The fatty richness of the brisket contributed to its buttery texture, making it incredibly enjoyable.

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Marinated Boneless Short Rib 4.2/5

The Marinated Boneless Short Rib was a highlight for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their meats. Chunky and substantial, each bite was tender and flavourful, thanks to the well-balanced marinade that enhanced the meat’s natural juiciness. These BBQ meats can also be enjoyed with fresh vegetables and condiments, adding texture and contrast to each bite.

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Steamed Egg 4/5

Served soufflé-style, the Steamed Egg was light, fluffy, and well-seasoned. The delicate eggy aroma added to its overall comforting appeal.

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Soy Bean Soup 4.2/5

A hearty bowl of Soy Bean Soup packed with depth and umami, featuring tender beef cubes and daikon. Each spoonful was rich and satisfying, making it a perfect accompaniment to the grilled meats.

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Jinju Cold Buckwheat Noodles 4.2/5

The Jinju Cold Buckwheat Noodles ($19) was a standout dish with its chewy, springy texture and refreshing, tangy broth. The addition of sweet pear and crisp cucumber enhanced the overall flavour, making each bite light yet satisfying — perfect for enjoying on a warm day.



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Cheese-Potato Jeon 4.2/5

Unlike the typical Korean pancake, the Cheese-Potato Jeon ($27) was a delightful twist. Made with fluffy-textured potatoes from Gangwon, it had a crispy, golden-brown exterior similar to a Swiss rosti, providing a satisfying charred texture and rich aroma.

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Galbi Mandoo 4/5

From the bar bite menu, we tried the Galbi Mandoo ($17). These oversized Korean dumplings were generously stuffed with minced beef, wrapped in delicate, translucent skin, and served in a light yet flavourful broth.

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Mango Shaved Ice, Red Bean Shaved Ice 4.5/5

We ended our meal on a refreshing note with the Mango Shaved Ice ($10) and Red Bean Shaved Ice ($10). Both featured soft, sweet, and milky bingsu, but the Red Bean Shaved Ice deserves a special mention — the homemade red bean was slow-cooked to perfection, delivering deep, natural sweetness that elevated the dessert.

The House of Gungdam brings a modern yet authentic Korean barbecue experience to Duxton Road. It offers top-quality meats expertly grilled over charcoal, along with delicious side dishes and comforting Korean classics. Whether you're a BBQ enthusiast or simply a fan of Korean cuisine, this new restaurant is well worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The House of Ghungdam
72 Duxton Road
Singapore 089531
Tel: +65 83362068
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes [Map]

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

Monday, February 17, 2025

Kko Kko Na Ra @ Hansik Dining Collective (Tanjong Pagar) - OG Korean Restaurant Celebrates 17th Anniversary with Special Gourmet Trail

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Korean food enthusiasts will undoubtedly recognise Kko Kko Na Ra, one of Singapore’s pioneering Korean restaurants that helped popularise Korean fried chicken and late-night dining. This February marks its 17th Anniversary.

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Now located on Level 2 of Hansik Dining Collective, Kko Kko Na Ra is part of a unique Korean dining hub featuring six distinct restaurants and a bar within a two-storey shophouse. The other brands include ChungSa ChoRong, Hanyang Bulgogi, Gogijip, Halmae Gukbap, and My Patio.

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Hansik Dining Collective is offering 17% off signature dishes across all outlets until 31 March 2025 to celebrate this milestone.

Another highlight is the HDC Air Boarding Pass, a curated gourmet trail available for $117 (U.P. $156) or $217 (U.P. $266). Perfect as a gift, the pass lets diners enjoy a signature dish at each restaurant and a complimentary Polaroid photo. It's available for purchase until 28 February 2025 and is valid for three months.

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Korean meals are incomplete without banchan, and we enjoyed the fresh kimchi here, which is made with apples and pears for a subtle sweetness.

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Jipyeong Makgeolli

Our trail experience started with a bottle of Jipyeong Makgeolli ($30) from My Patio. This preservative-free Korean rice wine had a smooth, lightly sweet flavour.

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Cheese Kimchi Pancake 4.2/5

From ChungSa ChoRong, we tried the Cheese Kimchi Pancake ($25), a must-try for cheese lovers. The crispy pancake was generously packed with kimchi and topped with a gooey, stretchy layer of melted cheese.

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Combo Chicken 4/5

Kko Kko Na Ra's Combo Chicken ($35 for 9 pieces) featured a mix of Original, Garlic Soy, and Yang Nyum flavours. While the batter was satisfyingly crispy, we had hoped for juicier meat.

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Siraegi Gukbap 4.5/5

We redeemed a Siraegi Gukbap ($25) from Halmae Gukbap to round off our meal. This comforting dried radish greens soup, served with rice, is exclusive to this restaurant in Singapore and uses imported radish greens from Korea. This comforting and flavourful number was also my favourite of the night, carrying just the right level of heat.

With four dishes redeemed from our HDC Air Boarding Pass, we're excited to return and try the rest.

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.


Kko Kko Na Ra
33 Tras Street
#02-01
Singapore 078973
Tel: +65 6225 9282
Facebook
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Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar MRT (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 1am

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

CHEFLAM's Sichuan Cuisine (兰堂川菜) @ Guoco Tower - A Fiery New Arrival Helmed by Master of Sichuan Cuisine

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With great excitement, CHEFLAM's Sichuan Cuisine (兰堂川菜) has finally opened its doors at Guoco Tower, Tanjong Pagar. The restaurant is helmed by Chef Lam Shan, a renowned master of Sichuan Dongpo cuisine, often referred to as the "Master of Sichuan Cuisine." Known for his exceptional skills and numerous culinary accolades, Chef Lam brings an authentic and elevated Sichuan dining experience to Singapore.

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Shadow Lotus Root Slices 4.2/5

We began our Sichuan feast with the Shadow Lotus Root Slices ($12.90), an irresistibly crispy and addictive snack. The thinly sliced lotus root is expertly fried to a golden crisp, offering a light, airy crunch that makes it a perfect starter.

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Chengdu Cold Noodle with Shredded Chicken 4/5

Next, we tried the Chengdu Cold Noodle with Shredded Chicken ($9.90), a refreshing and flavourful dish. The springy wheat noodles are coated in a savoury, garlicky, and gingery sauce, delivering an aromatic kick. The tender shredded chicken adds richness, while the crisp cucumber provides a cooling contrast to the bold flavours.

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Chowhound Beef 4.2/5

The Chowhound Beef is available in a single portion ($14.80) or served in a cloisonné pot ($48). This dish features premium beef slices slow-cooked for 24 hours in a nutritious herbal broth infused with 21 medicinal ingredients, including red dates, goji berries, and angelica root. The tender beef absorbs all the herbal goodness, making it a flavourful and nourishing delight. It is best enjoyed with Sichuan chilli powder or creamy sesame sauce for added depth.

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Geleshan Laziji 4.8/5

The Geleshan Laziji ($23.80) is undoubtedly one of the best versions of this Sichuan classic we've had in a long time. Unlike most places that use a single type of chilli, Chef Lam's version incorporates three different varieties of Sichuan and Guizhou chillies, creating a complex and fragrant heat. The chicken is fried to perfection — crispy on the outside and juicy and tender inside — making every bite spicy, smoky, and incredibly satisfying.

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Dongpo's Golden Soup with Pickled Fish 4.8/5

A standout dish, the Dongpo’s Golden Soup with Pickled Fish ($29.90) showcases a harmonious balance of sourness, spice, and umami. The broth, made with premium Sichuan pickled vegetables, delivers a rich and tangy aroma, while the thinly sliced fish absorbs the soup’s essence, resulting in a deeply flavourful and comforting dish.

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Gold Medal Kung Po Chicken 5/5

The Gold Medal Kung Po Chicken ($16.80) lives up to its name — it won gold at the World Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Skills Competition. This dish is a true revelation, featuring a perfectly balanced combination of smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours. The flavour complexity in this version elevates it far beyond the typical Kung Po Chicken, making it an absolute must-try.

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Sizzling Seafood Crispy Rice 4.5/5

The Sizzling Seafood Crispy Rice ($39.90) is an exciting creation for a visually stunning and interactive dish. A crisp rice shell is dramatically cracked open at the table, revealing a rich, seafood-infused sauce filled with juicy prawns, abalone, and vegetables. The crispy rice absorbs the savoury sauce, offering a symphony of textures.

CHEFLAM’s Sichuan Cuisine delivers an authentic yet refined Sichuan dining experience, staying true to traditional flavours while incorporating premium ingredients and innovative techniques. The Geleshan Laziji, Gold Medal Kung Po Chicken, and Dongpo’s Golden Soup with Pickled Fish are definite highlights. Whether you’re a spice lover or looking to explore Sichuan cuisine at its finest, this restaurant is worth the visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


CHEFLAM's Sichuan Cuisine
Guoco Tower
5 Wallich Street
#01-13
Singapore 078883
Tel: +65 89016266
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT Station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to the open air plaza area above the MRT station. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]