Nong Geng Ji (农耕记湖南土菜) @ Great World City - Bold Hunan Flavours Meet Family-Style Dining

With the rapid expansion of Nong Geng Ji across Singapore, more diners are getting acquainted with the bold, rustic flavours of Hunan cuisine. I recently visited their Great World outlet with my family to try the 4-Pax Cherished Family Moments Set ($138), a hearty spread designed for communal dining. Larger groups can opt for the 6-Pax Joyful Reunion Feast ($188). In conjunction with Parents’ Day, the restaurant sweetens the experience with a scratch-and-win card (chance to win $100 in vouchers) for every table, plus a complimentary mugwort hammer with any set meal. This thoughtful, slightly quirky touch adds to the celebratory occasion.

Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone and Chilli 4.2/5

The Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone and Chilli is undoubtedly the centrepiece of the meal. Served in a signature golden wok kept warm over a flame, it arrives with an intoxicating, smoky aroma and wok hei. Tender slices of pork are paired with plump baby abalones, elevating what is typically a humble stir-fry into something more luxurious. The interplay of textures is delightful: the springy bite of abalone, the succulence of pork, and the crunch of Hunan green chillies. Despite its fiery appearance, the heat leans more aromatic than aggressive, making it surprisingly approachable.

Big Shrimp with Vermicelli and Garlic 4.2/5

A highlight for both flavour and theatrics, the Big Shrimp with Vermicelli and Garlic is cooked tableside. Fresh butterflied prawns are laid over vermicelli, drenched in an aromatic garlic sauce, then steamed for a precise seven minutes. When the lid is lifted, a cloud of garlicky steam fills the air. The prawns are sweet and snappy, but it’s the vermicelli that steals the show, soaking up the umami-rich juices and fragrant garlic broth. Comforting yet indulgent, it offers a welcome contrast to the bolder, spicier dishes.

Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth 4/5

The Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth provides a soothing interlude amid the spice-laden spread. Simmered for hours, the broth is rich, creamy, and deeply nourishing, drawing out collagen and marrow from the pork ribs. The lotus root here is of the prized “powdery” (mian) variety, breaking apart effortlessly with a soft, almost fluffy texture. Each spoonful is mellow yet flavourful, coating the palate with gentle sweetness and offering a much-needed reset.

Stir-Fried Spinach with Century Egg 2.8/5

The Stir-Fried Spinach with Century Egg was the weakest link of the meal. While the idea is appealing, with century egg breaking down into a creamy, umami-rich coating, the execution fell short. There was a noticeable bitterness in the finish, and the spinach could have been cooked slightly longer for a softer texture. The broth also lacked depth, and a more robust stock base would have helped lift the dish. While it still offers an interesting flavour profile, it didn’t quite match up to the rest of the spread.

Mao’s Braised Pork 4.5/5

A Hunan classic, Mao’s Braised Pork is a must-order. Unlike the darker Shanghainese version, this rendition achieves its deep amber hue through caramelised sugar and spices. Each cube of pork belly is beautifully layered and braised to perfection — tender to the point of melting in the mouth. The fat is rendered luxuriously without being greasy, while the lean meat remains juicy and flavourful. Rich, sticky, and deeply satisfying, it’s best enjoyed with a bowl of rice to mop up the luscious sauce.

Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple 4.2/5

For a non-spicy option, the Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple is a reliable crowd-pleaser. The chicken pieces are fried to a crisp golden exterior, retaining their crunch even after being coated in the glossy sauce. The balance of flavours is well judged, tangy without being overly sweet, with juicy pineapple chunks adding brightness. It’s a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness of the meal and appeals to all ages.

Rock Sugar Golden Fungus Dessert Soup 4/5

Ending on a gentle note, the Rock Sugar Golden Fungus Dessert Soup is both nourishing and refreshing. The golden fungus offers a slightly more velvety bite compared to the usual white variety. Lightly sweetened with rock sugar, the soup is delicate and soothing, allowing the natural flavours to shine. Served chilled, it provides a cooling contrast to the preceding spicy dishes, making it a fitting finale to the meal.

Nong Geng Ji delivers a robust introduction to Hunan cuisine with its bold flavours, generous portions, and communal dining format. The set menu offers a good variety, balancing fiery stir-fries with comforting broths and crowd-pleasing classics. While there are minor inconsistencies, the standout dishes — particularly the Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone and Mao’s Braised Pork — make the experience worthwhile. Coupled with seasonal promotions and family-friendly bundles, it’s a compelling spot for gatherings, especially for those looking to explore the punchy, aromatic world of Hunan flavours.


Nong Geng Ji (农耕记湖南土菜)
Great World City
1 Kim Seng Promenade
#01-115/116
Singapore 237994
Tel: +65 6908 0347
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Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 6. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Quan Hotpot @ Hotel Michael - A Refined Five Elements Hotpot Experience

Located at Resorts World Sentosa, Quan Hotpot is a contemporary dining concept that offers a refined take on the traditional hotpot experience. Situated within Hotel Michael (Level 1), the restaurant emphasises balanced flavours and sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, guided by the Chinese philosophy of the Five Elements — sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, and salty.

Departing from the communal pot format, Quan Hotpot serves its broths individually, allowing diners to tailor their experience from the outset. The selection is diverse, ranging from the rich Signature Singapore Laksa Broth to the comforting Traditional Congee Broth and Collagen Herbal Chicken Broth. Those who prefer bolder flavours can opt for the Classic Sichuan Mala Broth, while the Heritage Suan Cai Broth offers a tangy, fermented profile.

I went with the Heritage Suan Cai Broth, which delivered a well-balanced tanginess that was both appetising and comforting. The acidity of the preserved mustard greens was gentle yet distinct, lifting the flavours of the accompanying ingredients without overpowering them. It proved to be a versatile base that grew more flavourful as the meal progressed.

Once the broth is selected, the experience becomes interactive with a selection of condiments presented tableside. Diners can mix their own dipping sauces to suit their preferences, adding another layer of personalisation to the meal.

The Signature 4 Element Hotpot Set Menu ($68 per person) offers a comprehensive spread, covering premium meats, seafood, vegetables, housemade items, noodles, and dessert. It is a well-curated selection that balances variety and quality.

The Premium Meat Selection includes Organic Australian Pork Belly, US “CAB” Beef Short Plates, Kampong Chicken Thigh, and Sliced Salt Grass-Fed Australian Lamb Shoulder. Each was thinly sliced for quick cooking, with the beef short plate standing out for its tenderness and marbling, while the pork belly offered a satisfying balance of fat and lean.

The Premium Fresh Seafood Selection features Live Tiger Prawns, Hokkaido Scallops, Fish Slices, and Live Korean Abalone. The prawns were firm and naturally sweet, while the scallops were plump and delicate. The abalone added a touch of indulgence, with a tender bite and subtle briny sweetness.

The Vegetable Selection was equally satisfying, comprising Bok Choy, Napa Cabbage, Spinach, King Oyster and Shiitake Mushrooms, along with Beancurd Roll, Silken Tofu, Potato, and Sweet Corn. Fresh and vibrant, the assortment provided a good balance to the meal’s richer components.

A highlight in both presentation and texture is the 5 Elements Fish Noodles, served in striking hues of orange, purple, yellow, black, and green. Beyond their visual appeal, the noodles offered a delightful chew and springy bite, making them a fun addition to the hotpot.

The dessert was less impressive. The Flamed Meringue Ice Cream arrived with a theatrical flourish but leaned overly sweet, overshadowing the ice cream beneath. The Fresh Fruit platter provided a lighter finish, though the fruits lacked the sweetness expected to round off the meal on a stronger note.

Overall, Quan Hotpot delivers a polished and thoughtfully executed hotpot experience. Its focus on individual broths, quality ingredients, and a balanced flavour philosophy sets it apart, making it a compelling option for those seeking a more refined take on this comforting dining tradition.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Quan Hotpot
Hotel Michael
Level 1
8 Sentosa Gateway
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6577 6665
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 5pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Vivocity Level 3 to Vivocity Monorail Station. Take the Monorail to Sentosa. Alight at Resorts World Station. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 15 minutes. [Map]

Shisen Hanten @ Hilton Orchard Singapore - An Eight-Course Expression of Spring

To mark the arrival of Spring, Michelin-starred Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro unveils its Chef’s Table Spring Menu 2026 — an eight-course experience ($288++) available from March through May. Rooted in the finesse of Chūka Szechwan Ryori, the menu is a thoughtful expression of the season, spotlighting the pristine produce of Japan’s spring harvest and the cuisine’s hallmark balance of sweetness, umami, and gentle spice.

Assorted Seasonal Appetiser - Japanese Hassun Style 4.2/5

The meal opens with a refined Hassun, a nod to traditional kaiseki presentation. Served across an assortment of elegant vessels, the six seasonal bites form a vibrant prelude. Highlights include the Smoked Fish, offering a subtle smokiness layered with restrained heat. Mala Barbecued Pork, tender with a hint of mala punch, and the Fresh Beancurd Skin with Crab Consommé Sauce, which impresses with its silky texture and delicate crustacean sweetness. The Abalone with Glass Noodles showcases a pleasing chew, while the Broad Beans & Scallop with Mala Egg Yolk Sauce ties the assortment together with a gentle, savoury richness.

Steamed Siu Mai & Turnip Cream Soup 4/5

The Steamed Siu Mai is elevated with prized Mangalica pork, its natural fattiness lending the dumpling a juicy, almost buttery mouthfeel. Crafted in a larger format, each bite delivers a satisfying depth of flavour. Complementing it is a chilled Japanese turnip consommé — light, clean, and subtly sweet — acting as a refreshing counterpoint that resets the palate.

Hiyama Sea Cucumber with Black Truffle 4.2/5

A standout in both technique and flavour, the Hiyama Sea Cucumber is sourced from Hokkaido and undergoes an intensive three-day rehydration process to unlock its full depth of flavour. Braised in a rich hong shao sauce, the sea cucumber attains a luxurious, gelatinous texture. It is paired with a creamy risotto made from Hokkaido rice and finished with aromatic black truffle, creating a harmonious interplay between land and sea.

Spring Asparagus 4/5

Celebrating the essence of the season, the Spring Asparagus is presented in its purest form. Lightly steamed to preserve its crunch and sweetness, the spears are paired with a bold fermented beancurd sauce that adds a savoury punch. A finishing touch of sakura salt — delicately infused with cherry blossom — lends a floral nuance that encapsulates the fleeting beauty of Spring.

A5 Wagyu Beef Spring Roll 4.5/5

The A5 Wagyu Beef Spring Roll is indulgent yet well-balanced. Featuring braised Omi beef sirloin, the filling is imbued with the complex flavours of Szechuan fermented broad bean and chilli bean pastes. The richness of the marbled beef is offset by the crunch of bamboo shoots and the subtle nuttiness of melted Comté cheese, all encased in a crisp, golden wrapper. Each bite delivers layers of texture and umami.

Mapo Tofu with Assorted Seafood 4.5/5

The meal reaches its crescendo with the Mapo Tofu with Assorted Seafood, a refined “White Mapo” interpretation. Instead of the usual robust sauce, this version leans into elegance, featuring sweet, briny notes from wild prawns, scallops, and king crab simmered in superior chicken stock. The silky tofu absorbs the broth beautifully, while a finishing splash of hot oil over Szechuan chilli powder adds aromatic heat. Accompaniments such as pickled mustard greens, peanuts, and sesame seeds introduce textural contrast. Paired with Hokkaido claypot rice, it is both comforting and deeply satisfying.

Strawberry Parfait 4.2/5

The Strawberry Parfait provides a refreshing and well-composed finale. Juicy Japanese strawberries take centre stage, layered with house-made Ma Lai Gao infused with Okinawa brown sugar, mascarpone cream, and almond tofu. The interplay of fruity brightness, creamy richness, and light sponge creates a balanced and elegant dessert.

Set within the intimate Chef’s Table setting, this seasonal menu showcases the culinary philosophy of Shisen Hanten — where precision, premium ingredients, and storytelling converge. Each course captures a moment of Spring, making this a timely and memorable dining experience. For those seeking exclusivity, the private Chef’s Table room (up to 8 guests) requires a minimum spend of $2,304++ and offers a front-row seat to this seasonal showcase before it transitions into summer.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro
Hilton Singapore Orchard
Level 35
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Jiang-Nan Chun @ Four Seasons Hotel Singapore – Discover the “Passages of Spring” Seasonal Menu

At Jiang-Nan Chun, the arrival of spring is marked by a thoughtfully curated seasonal menu, available from 15 March to 15 May 2026. Helmed by award-winning Executive Chinese Chef Alan Chan, the eight-week showcase celebrates the season’s first harvests — tender greens, young shoots, and delicate blossoms — translated into refined Cantonese plates. We experienced the six-course set menu ($238++ per person), a well-paced journey highlighting both technique and seasonality.

Amuse Bouche 4/5

The meal began on a refreshing note with a simple yet effective amuse bouche of Pickled Tomato. Light, juicy and naturally sweet, the tomatoes provided a bright, palate-awakening start, gently priming the appetite for the courses ahead.

Jiang-Nan Platter 4.2/5

The opening platter presented a trio of delicacies: Marinated Fresh South African Abalone, Honey-Glazed Iberico Pork, and Spiced Fried Scallop. The standout was undoubtedly the marinated abalone, a departure from the usual braised rendition. Here, the abalone retained a delicate bite while absorbing a nuanced marinade that elevated its natural brininess with a gentle layering of flavours. The honey-glazed Iberico pork (char siew) impressed with its succulent texture, offering a pleasing balance of lean meat and fat, its caramelised glaze lending a subtle smokiness and sweetness. Completing the trio, the spiced fried scallop delivered textural contrast. It was crisp on the outside while remaining plump and tender within.

Double-Boiled Chicken Soup 5/5

A highlight of the evening, the Double-Boiled Chicken Soup with Sea Whelk, Conpoy and Morel Mushroom was served in a whole coconut, marrying presentation with depth of flavour. Slow-simmered over hours, the soup achieved remarkable clarity while extracting the essence of each ingredient. The natural sweetness of the coconut lent a gentle, refreshing lift, while the conpoy (dried scallops) and sea whelk contributed layers of umami richness. Spring morel mushrooms added an earthy complexity, rounding out the profile. Comforting yet invigorating, the soup struck a beautiful balance between nourishment and refinement, a dish deeply rooted in Cantonese culinary tradition.

Wok-Fried A5 Wagyu Beef 4.5/5

The Wok-Fried A5 Wagyu Beef with Spring Bamboo Shoots in Black Pepper Sauce showcased a masterful interplay of richness and freshness. The A5 Wagyu, with its intense marbling, was indulgently tender and flavourful, while the seasonal bamboo shoots introduced a crisp, clean contrast. Their subtle sweetness and fibrous crunch helped cut through the richness of the beef, preventing the dish from becoming overwhelming. The black pepper sauce added aromatic heat and depth, tying the elements together into a harmonious, well-balanced plate that felt both luxurious and surprisingly light.

Braised White Asparagus in Superior Broth 4/5

Celebrating another prized spring ingredient, the Braised White Asparagus was executed with finesse. Naturally sweet and tender with a gentle crunch, the asparagus absorbed the superior broth beautifully, enhancing its delicate flavour without overpowering it. The addition of bacon introduced a savoury, smoky undertone that provided contrast and depth, elevating what could have been a simple vegetable dish into something more layered and satisfying.

Braised Inaniwa Noodles with Australian Lobster and Mushrooms in Shrimp Sauce 4.2/5

The noodle course delivered both elegance and comfort. Silky Inaniwa noodles were paired with tender Australian lobster and fresh mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich shrimp sauce. The lobster’s natural sweetness shone through, complemented by the umami-laden sauce, while the mushrooms added an earthy dimension. The noodles, known for their smooth texture, carried the sauce effortlessly, resulting in a dish that was refined yet approachable, a gentle expression of spring’s lighter, more nuanced flavours.

Orange Blossom Mousse with Black Sesame Cremeux and White Chocolate 4.5/5

Dessert arrived in a visually charming form, shaped like an orange. Beneath its delicate exterior, the Orange Blossom Mousse was light and aromatic, offering floral citrus notes without veering into excessive sweetness. The black sesame crémeux introduced a nutty depth, while the white chocolate added a creamy richness, tying the elements together. The interplay of flavours was well-judged, resulting in a balanced and refreshing conclusion to the meal.

Jiang-Nan Chun’s seasonal menu is a graceful ode to spring, where premium ingredients and time-honoured techniques come together in a polished, contemporary expression of Cantonese cuisine. Available for both lunch and dinner, the menu is offered as a six-course set ($238++ per person) or à la carte (from $28++), with an optional wine pairing ($85++) to further enhance the experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jiang Nan Chun (江南春)
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
Second Floor
190 Orchard Boulevard
Singapore 248646
Tel: +65 68317653
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 2pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 11. Walk straight down Orchard Boulevard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Sushi Nakamura @ Onze (Tanjong Pagar) - Japanese Omakase Restaurant Focusing On Premium Sushi And Seasonal Ingredients

Sushi Nakamura at Onze @ Tanjong Pagar is an intimate sushi spot offering Nigiri course, omakase, and a curated à la carte menu. Our omakase experience was crafted using seasonal ingredients.

Abalone 4.5/5

To start, we had abalone with abalone liver sauce. The sauce, mellowed with butter, was rich with deep, oceanic umami that beautifully enhanced the abalone's natural sweetness.

Gurnard Fish 3.5/5

This was followed by a cold dish comprising Gurnard Fish with Dashi Vinegar Jelly, Ice Plant, and tomato. The dish delivered a refreshing fruity acidity that awakened the palate.

Sardine 3/5

Next came Sardine rolled with pickled ginger and shiso leaf, carrying a similarly briny yet tart and earthy profile.

Spanish Mackerel Shabu Shabu 4/5

A comforting turn came with Spanish Mackerel Shabu Shabu, served in a light, delicate broth that gently showcased the fish's natural flavours.

Tairagai 4/5

Then came a moreish grilled Tairagai, notable for its firm yet tender bite, with an intense umami richness elevated by grilled nori.

Seaweed Soup with Bamboo Shoots & Firefly Squid 4/5

Before the mains, we were served a Seaweed Soup with Japanese Bamboo Shoots and Firefly Squid. The gentle, light broth allowed the natural flavours of the springtime ingredients to shine, highlighting the sweet corn-like flavours of the crunchy bamboo shoots and the rich, briny depth of the squid.

Trio-style Seafood Donburi 4/5

Warm Seafood Noodles 3/5

We were served sampling portions of two signature dishes from their main menu: Trio-style Seafood Donburi and Warm Seafood Noodles. The donburi stood out with its satisfying textures and deeply flavourful rice. The noodles were comforting, though the broth leaned slightly too salty towards the end.

Nigiri 3/5

The final savoury course featured five types of Nigiri. The Ika impressed with its creamy, almost buttery texture, while the Unagi provided a bold, smoky finish to the meal.

Dessert 3/5

Dessert was a delightful combination of strawberry and kantan made with white bean paste and white chocolate. Overall, it was light, balanced, and a pleasant end to the experience.

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.


Sushi Nakamura
Onze
11 Kee Seng Street
#01-12
Singapore 089218
Tel: +65 89087964
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 6pm – 11pm Tue-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road at Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tanjong Pagar Road. Walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn right onto Kee Seng Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]