Yue (乐) @ Aloft Novena Singapore - Unlimited A La Carte Zi Char Buffet from $29.90++ with 1-for-1 Promotion

Yue at Aloft, nestled within Aloft Singapore Novena, launches what may be Singapore's most value-for-money a la carte zi char buffet, priced from just $29.90++ per person. And for a limited time, diners can enjoy an even sweeter deal with a 1-for-1 promotion (U.P. $59.80++/$71.80++ per pax, min. 2 to dine). The buffet features over 20 dishes showcasing Yue's signature modern Chinese cuisine with touches of local seafood flair. On top of that, each table receives two complimentary premium dishes: Crab with Creamy Milk and Salted Egg Lime Sauce and Kung Pao Duck Confit, making this deal even more irresistible.

Crab, Creamy Milk and Salted Egg Lime Sauce 3/5

While the Crab itself was fresh, sweet, and decently sized, the creamy salted egg lime sauce was overly zesty, throwing off the flavour balance. The sauce felt more citrus-forward than salted egg-rich, which may divide opinions.

Duck Confit, Kung Pao 3.8/5

The Kung Pao Duck Confit was a generous serving with two tender duck legs in a claypot. The meat was beautifully fork-tender, but the sauce lacked the bold, spicy, sweet punch typical of kung pao dishes. A little more heat and tang could have lifted it further.

Deep-Fried Mid-Joint Wings, Shrimp Paste 4/5

The Deep-Fried Mid-Joint Wings were a solid favourite. Deep-fried until crisp and marinated in shrimp paste, they were packed with umami and remained juicy inside. It is a classic zi char delight.

Crispy Baby Squid, Sweet Shrimp Paste and Ground Peanut 4/5

A clever, rojak-style take on Crispy Squid. These baby squid were deep-fried to a golden crunch, then tossed in a sweet shrimp paste and crushed peanuts. Addictive and well-executed. It is a standout dish.

Mapo Beancurd, Minced Pork 2.8/5

The Mapo Beancurd missed the mark. Using firm tofu instead of the usual silky type removed the velvety texture one expects from Mapo Tofu. Moreover, the sauce lacked the signature kick of doubanjiang and Sichuan peppercorns, making it flat and underwhelming.

Deep-fried Sea Bass Slices, Superior Soy Sauce 3.5/5

A simple and comforting dish, much like something you'd find in a home kitchen. The superior soy sauce played an essential role in adding depth and lifting the flavours of the tender Deep-fried Sea Bass Slices.

Cereal Prawns 4.2/5

This is a zi char staple that delivers on flavour. The Cereal Prawns are succulent and crispy, generously coated in buttery sweet cereal and fragrant curry leaves. They are comforting and well-balanced.

Sweet and Sour Pork, Popping Candy 4.2/5

The Sweet and Sour Pork was both playful and delicious. The succulent pork pieces were glazed in a tangy-sweet sauce, and the addition of popping candy gave it a whimsical, fizzy touch that added both texture and fun to the dish.

Spring Chicken, Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Tequila 3/5

Served sizzling, the Spring Chicken with Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Tequila was tender and well-flavoured. However, the dish lacked the aromatic complexity expected from the Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Tequila, making it feel more like a standard brown sauce braise.

Sliced Beef, Black Pepper Garlic Sauce 4.5/5

The Sliced Beef in Black Pepper Garlic Sauce was one of the stars of the night. The beef slices were juicy and tender, and the black pepper garlic sauce packed a sharp, pungent punch that paired exceptionally well with the meat.

Wanton Noodles Soup 2/5

The Wanton Noodles Soup is a letdown. While the noodles were decently springy, the soup lacked depth and body, resulting in a bland dish that felt more like an afterthought.

Yue's Signature 'LIMPEH' Bee Hoon 4.8/5

The must-order dish is Yue's Signature 'LIMPEH' Bee Hoon. A modern take on Chao Ta Bee Hoon, this version has a charred, crispy crust and deep wok hei. The soy sauce and lup cheong add an extra dimension of flavour, making it incredibly fragrant and satisfying. It is easily the best dish on the buffet.

Yue at Aloft impresses with a robust selection of zi char classics and playful modern twists. While a few dishes fell short of expectations, the value-for-money is undeniable, especially with the 1-for-1 promotion and free premium dishes. This buffet is worth every penny. It offers over 20 items, including crowd-pleasers like Cereal Prawns, LIMPEH Bee Hoon, and Sweet and Sour Pork with Popping Candy.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yue (乐)
Aloft Novena Singapore

Lobby Level
16 Ah Hood Road
Singapore 329982
Tel: +65 68086846
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Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus number 139 or 145. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Yue (乐) @ Aloft Novena Singapore - A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

Nestled within the world's largest Aloft Hotel, Yue (乐) Restaurant takes centre stage, boasting traditional Chinese cuisine with a contemporary twist, all under the expert guidance of Executive Sous Chef Awyeong Kin. It offers a delightful array of dishes that harmoniously blend flavours and textures.

Deep Fried Eggplant 4/5

Initiating our dining experience, the Deep Fried Eggplant ($12) captured our taste buds with its perfectly crisp exterior and a delicate coat of batter. Simply seasoned with salt and pepper, it reached new heights with the addition of chicken floss, offering an elevated dimension of enjoyment.

Crispy Baby Squid 4/5

The Crispy Baby Squid ($15) emerged as a modern rendition of local rojak, featuring deep-fried baby squid tossed in a sweet shrimp sauce and garnished with ground peanuts — a delightful twist on a familiar flavour, marrying crispiness and savoury sweetness.

Braised Fish Maw Soup 4/5

For a comforting start, the Braised Fish Maw Soup ($12 per serving) presented a wholesome alternative to traditional shark fin soup. Laden with fish maw, crab meat, and conpoy, this hearty soup invited personalisation with a dash of vinegar and pepper. Current promotion: Receive a complimentary 45ml drizzle of Martell Cordon Bleu when a diner orders a small portion.

Steamed Cod Fish 4/5

The Steamed Cod Fish ($23) showcased a fatty fish delightfully paired with a homemade spicy garlic peppercorn sauce. The sauce garnered unanimous approval, prompting suggestions to bottle and sell this delectable accompaniment.

Charcoal Grilled Beef Ribeye 4/5

A reminiscence of New Ubin Seafood, the Charcoal Grilled Beef Ribeye ($95 for 500g) exhibited a perfect blend of tenderness and juiciness, complemented by a tantalising charred aroma. Served with Himalayan salt or mustard, it was a carnivorous delight.

Chilli Tiger Prawn 4/5

Opting for a deviation from the usual Chilli Crab, we indulged in the Chilli Tiger Prawn ($9/100g). With a minimum order of 500g, the option to have them with deep-fried or steamed mantou added to the allure provides an ideal vessel to savour the rich chilli crab sauce.

Sweet and Sour Pork 4/5

Yue's Sweet and Sour Pork rendition added a playful twist with popping candies. Not overly sweet, and with a generous serving of pork, each bite delivered a delightful crunch.

Stewed Seafood Bee Hoon 4.2/5

The Stewed Seafood Bee Hoon ($26/$52) stood out with its silky bee hoon absorbing the delectable broth. Enhanced by the sweetness of prawns and clams, a side of sambal elevated the dish, adding another layer of enjoyment.

Chilled Mango Sago, Lime Sorbet 4/5

Concluding our culinary journey was the Chilled Mango Sago ($8 per serving) with a refreshing scoop of Lime Sorbet. This sweet and sour combination provided the perfect ending, leaving our palates invigorated.

Yue (乐) Restaurant at Aloft Novena Singapore artfully combines tradition and innovation, creating a dining experience that marries the richness of classic Chinese flavours with contemporary twists. It is a Chinese restaurant worth discovering in the heart of the city.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yue (乐)
Aloft Novena Singapore

Lobby Level
16 Ah Hood Road
Singapore 329982
Tel: +65 68086846
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus number 139 or 145. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Black & White Bistro @ Shaw Plaza - A Gastronomic Journey at Black & White Bistro

Nestled in the heart of Shaw Plaza is Black & White Bistro, the latest chic new eatery that offers a carefully curated all-day dining menu featuring an extensive western selection, fine wines and artisanal tea and coffee. Stepping into the restaurant, diners are greeted with a modern ambience decked in tasteful black and white decor, contemporary art pieces and dimmed lighting, which creates a cosy yet upscale dining atmosphere.

Berry Fresh Mojito 4/5

We started the meal with the Berry Fresh Mojito ($20), a refreshing concoction of juicy berries and fresh mint leaves that tantalise the taste buds.

Spanish Gambas 4.2/5

The Spanish Gambas ($17) features succulent prawns in a flavourful blend of olive oil, garlic, chilli, and Spanish paprika. The aromatic garlic and the subtle heat from the chilli enhance the natural sweetness of the prawns. The dish is also served with a side of crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.

B&W Signature Fish & Chips 4.2/5

The B&W Signature Fish & Chips features charcoal beer batter fish and chips, which combines the classic English dish with a twist of charcoal seasoning for a unique flavour. The sea bass fillet is lightly coated in a special charcoal-infused batter and fried to perfection, which gives it a delightful crunch while retaining a moist and flaky inside. The charcoal batter imparts a subtle smokiness to the fish, enhancing its natural flavours. The dish is served with a side of fries and tartar sauce.

Build Your Own Brekkie 4/5

The Build Your Own Brekkie ($12++) offers a delightful and customisable breakfast experience with a medley of delicious ingredients. We opted for a sumptuous combination of creamy scrambled eggs, fluffy brioche toast, and smoked salmon (+$8). You can also add other ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms, sausages or bacon, to the breakfast platter, with additional top-up costs.

Triple Charcoal Burger slider 3.8/5

The Triple Charcoal Burger slider ($18) is a tantalising trio of mini burgers catering to diverse tastes. The first slider showcases a lightly crisp charcoal-battered fish fillet similar to the Fish & Chips that we had, and the second slider presents a flavourful crumbled chicken patty. In contrast, the third slider features a classic beef patty, though a tad on the dry side. These mini burgers are arranged on soft charcoal buns, providing a subtle yet striking contrast to the vibrant fillings.

Overall, Black & White Bistro offered a delightful dining experience with its innovative and diverse menu. The dishes showcased culinary excellence and attention to detail, from the refreshing Berry Fresh Mojito to the well-executed B&W Signature Fish & Chips. The chic ambience and attentive staff added to the overall enjoyment of the dining experience.

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


Black & White Bistro
Shaw Plaza
360 Balestier Rd
#01-25
Singapore 329783
Tel: +65 8043 4868
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Website
Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Wed: 10am - 10pm
Thu-Sat: 10am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus number 145. Alight 5 stops later. Journey time about 15 minutes. Walk to destination. 
[Map]

NiuNiu Tea & DuDu Rice @ Whampoa Drive Food Centre - Taiwanese And Korean Street Food In Hawker Centre

I first get to know NiuNiu Tea & DuDu Rice during Covid when it is doing home delivery. Since then, it has moved on to opening a hawker stall at Whampoa Drive Food Centre selling Taiwanese-Korean street food cuisine. It is a combination that is unique to the local hawker scene.

You may wonder why Taiwanese and Korean street food. It is quite simple as these are food close to the heart of Ryan, the young hawker stall owner. Ryan's parents are from Taiwan, while his wife is Chinese-Korean. If I am right, the interesting stall name is named after his two daughters too.

Lu Ru Fan 4/5

The bowl of Lu Ru Fan ($4.70) comes with braised pork, a whole braised egg and pickled vegetables on top of fragrant pearl rice. The braised pork leaned towards more fatty parts, which is my preference for a bowl of braised pork rice. However, the braising sauce is a bit on the light side. I prefer it to be richer.

Oden 4.2/5

To go with my bowl of braised pork rice, I also ordered a bowl of Oden ($1.50 for 3pc) from the oden bar, whereby customers can pick their oden from a selection of assorted Eomuk, Daikon, Konjac, assorted Balls and assorted Sausage. Surprisingly, I enjoyed the unique pairing of braised pork rice with a bowl of soupy oden. It's like how Chinese usually like to have soup for their meal.

Besides what I had, the stall also sells other items like Taiwanese Mee Sua, Taiwanese Crispy Chicken Cutlet, Tteokbokki and Gimbap.


NiuNiu Tea & DuDu Rice
Whampoa Drive Food Centre
Blk 90 Whampoa Drive
#01-82
Singapore 320090
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NE Line), Novena (NS Line), Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 12pm - 830pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Farrer Park MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk to bus stop at Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple (Stop ID 07211). Take bus 130. Alight 5 stops later. Cross the road. Walk down Balestier road towards Whampoa Drive. Turn left onto Whampoa Drive. Walk to destination. Journey time about 20 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Novena MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road and walk to bus stop opposite Novena Church (Stop ID 50031). Take bus 21 or 131. Alight 6 stops later. Walk down Balestier road towards Whampoa Drive. Turn left onto Whampoa Drive. Walk to destination. Journey time about 20 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus 145. Alight 6 stops later. alk down Balestier road towards Whampoa Drive. Turn left onto Whampoa Drive. Walk to destination. Journey time about 20 minutes. [Map]

Niu Dian Beef Noodles @ Balestier Road - Taiwan Michelin Bib Gourmand Beef Noodles

The famous Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee - Niu Dian Beef Noodles from Taipei, Taiwan, opened in Singapore at VIIO @ Balestier. The establishment was founded by Mr Lin Chun Ying, a former head chef at a 5-star hotel in 2005, recreating his childhood memories of a delicious bowl of beef noodle incorporating some of his western cooking methods into his unique bowl of beef noodle.

Chrysanthemum Milk Tea and Lychee Mint Black Tea

Niu Dian has also collaborated with homegrown bubble tea brand Palace Tea to provide diners with an authentic Taiwan dining experience. We tried its Chrysanthemum Milk Tea and Lychee Mint Black Tea.

Trio Specialty Beef Noodles 4/5

The Trio Specialty Beef Noodles in Original Soup ($19.90) comes with boneless rib cut, tendon, and golden coin. The chewy texture of the handmade noodles stood out for me, followed by the consomme-like soup brewed over 24 hours with various beef bone parts, mirepoix and herbs.

Combination Specialty Beef Noodles 3.8/5

Diners can also pick the braised soup to go with the noodle for an additional one dollar. To try the difference, we ordered the Combination Specialty Beef Noodles ($19.90) with boneless rib cut, tendon, tripe and golden coin in a spicy soup base. I prefer the original flavour to taste the depth and body of the soup, as the chilli did not raise the taste profile but only gave it a spicy finish.

Cold Century Egg Tofu with Bonito Flaks 4/5

Braised Beancurd 4.2/5

Complete the meal with a number of sides, such as the Cold Century Egg Tofu with Bonito Flakes ($5.90) and Braised Beancurd ($3.90). They are delightful sides that are worth ordering to go with the noodles.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Niu Dian Beef Noodles
VIIO @ Balestier
520 Balestier Road
#01-01/02
Singapore 329853
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Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 11am - 930pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus number 139 or 145. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Old Airport Road Lor Mee @ Balestier Road - Famous Xin Mei Xiang Lor Mee Opens A Sit Down Restaurant

The famous Xin Mei Xiang Lor Mee hawker stall at Old Airport Food Centre has partnered with Food King's Ryan Tan to open a new sit down restaurant at Balestier Road. There is always a long queue at their hawker stall at Old Airport Food Centre, and it is usually sold out by noon. So you have to be an early bird if you do not want it to be a wasted trip.

With the new lor mee restaurant, diners can now savour the bowl of slurping goodness any time of the day. It is open daily from 9am to 9pm. The Lor Mee comes in three sizes for $6, $8 and $10 with choices of flat yellow noodle, round yellow noodle, kway teow or bee hoon.

The bowl of slurping goodness comes with braised egg, braised pork belly, fish flakes, beansprouts, fresh chillies and parsley, topped with chilli, fresh garlic and vinegar. Give everything a good mix for a good spoonful of flavour and textures.

The braised sauce is the star here, making the bowl of lor mee taste so good. It is not too gooey and starchy yet has an excellent flavourful depth. Xin Mei Xiang got it right is the balance. The different flavours from the braising sauce, vinegar, garlic, and chilli come together for one to enjoy the goodness.

Old Airport Road Lor Mee
586 Balestier Road
#01-01
Singapore 329898
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am - 9pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus number 139 or 145. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]