Great Nanyang (大南洋) @ Geneo - Nostalgic Buns, Rojak & Penang Flavours Near Kent Ridge MRT Station

Great Nanyang (大南洋) has unveiled its latest outlet at Geneo, conveniently located next to Kent Ridge MRT station. Staying true to its nostalgic charm, the new space is decked out in retro touches, evoking the warm familiarity of old-school kopitiams. What makes this outlet special? Not just the vintage aesthetics, but exclusive menu items and merchandise that give fans even more to explore.

Mashed Taro Steam Bun 4/5

We began our meal with a colourful array of steamed buns, each with a unique filling that pays tribute to both traditional and playful local flavours. The highlight among the buns was the Mashed Taro Steamed Bun ($4.80). The filling was creamy and smooth with a natural taro flavour that wasn't overly sweet. Encased in a soft, fluffy bun, it was comforting and nostalgic. It is a true crowd-pleaser.

Bak Kwa Chicken Floss Steam Bun 3.8/5

Bak Kwa Chicken Floss Steam Bun ($5.80) is an inventive bun that combines two festive favourites: bak kwa and chicken floss. Reminiscent of Chinese New Year snack pairings, this creative take worked surprisingly well. The smoky sweetness of the bak kwa paired nicely with the savoury floss, delivering a delicious umami bite.

Peanut Butter Steamed Bun 4/5

Otak-Otak Steam Bun 4/5

The Peanut Butter ($3.50) and Otak-Otak ($4.80) versions are excellent choices for those who prefer something more classic. The peanut butter bun was rich and gooey, while the otak-otak version had just the right level of spice and fishiness to satisfy without overwhelming.

Traditional Kaya Butter Toast 4/5

A staple of local breakfasts, the Traditional Kaya Butter Toast ($2.70) didn't disappoint. The bread was crisp on the outside, slathered with fragrant house-made kaya and thick, cold slabs of butter that melted slightly on contact. It was simple, nostalgic, and perfect.

French Toast 4/5

The French Toast ($4.50) offered a slightly richer take, with slices dipped in egg before being pan-fried to golden perfection. Paired with a sweet kaya dipping sauce, it made for a satisfying midday snack or light breakfast.

Fresh Fruit Rojak 3/5

One of the unique offerings at this outlet is the Fresh Fruit Rojak cart, where diners can handpick fruit skewers at $1.50 per stick. Once assembled, the fruits are tossed in a bold, punchy rojak sauce that balances sweetness, tartness, and spice. It's light, refreshing, and great for sharing.

Penang White Curry Noodle 3.5/5

The hearty bowl of Penang White Curry Noodles ($8.90) comes with a combination of yellow noodles and beehoon, swimming in a creamy, coconut-based broth. Topped with taupok, fishballs, and prawns, the dish was satisfying on its own, but really came alive with the addition of their in-house chilli paste, which brought out the full complexity of the curry.

Chicken Berempah Leg Nasi Lemak Kukus 4/5

Served with steamed nasi lemak rice, the Chicken Berempah Leg Nasi Lemak Kukus ($8.90) featured boneless chunks of chicken leg marinated in a fragrant blend of Malay spices, then deep-fried until crispy on the outside and tender within. Accompanied by peanuts, sambal, and a fried egg, this was a fulfilling one-plate meal with bold, aromatic flavours.

Nanyang Style Dry Curry Prawns 4.8/5

If you're dining in a group, there’s an extensive selection of cooked dishes perfect for communal feasting. We tried a few standouts:

Served with five large prawns, the Nanyang Style Dry Curry Prawns ($18) was a flavour bomb. The dry curry was aromatic, thick, and spicy, coating each prawn in a fragrant gravy that demanded extra rice. It was deeply satisfying. This is a must-order.

Sambal Kang Kong 4.2/5

Classic and well-executed, the Sambal Kang Kong ($8.80) was stir-fried in a robust sambal belacan, giving it a spicy and savoury kick while maintaining its fresh crunch.

Penang Asam Curry Fish Head 4.5/5

The Penang Asam Curry Fish Head ($32.80) is an impressive claypot dish brimming with flavour. The asam curry was wonderfully tangy, with a gentle heat that teased the palate. The fish head was fresh and meaty, surrounded by a medley of lady fingers, brinjal, long beans, and tomatoes. Every bite was hearty, bold, and comforting—the kind of dish that makes you reach for extra rice just to mop up the sauce.

Great Nanyang at Geneo is more than just a place to eat. It's a nostalgic trip down memory lane with creative modern twists. From playful steamed buns and toast sets to flavourful nasi lemak and claypot fish head curry, there's something for every appetite. Whether you're popping in for breakfast or gathering with friends for a full meal, this outlet delivers warmth, flavour, and a delightful dose of nostalgia.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Great Nanyang (大南洋)
Geneo
1B Science Park Drive
#B1-32
Singapore 119315
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Kent Ridge (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 830pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Kent Ridge MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Golden Charcoal @ Bedok North Street 1 - Zichar By An Indian Head Chef Fluent In Mandarin

Golden Charcoal, located at Bedok North Street 1 is a new Zichar stall by two young partners. Justin, the owner, used to work in the finance industry while his head chef, David (小黑), worked for a zichar stall in the Thomson area. Currently, they are having promotions offering two crabs for $60.

Mala Chicken 3/5

My friend who has dined here a few times is in charge of ordering some of her favourite dishes. We started with Mala Chicken, whereby the tender chicken is tossed in fragrant mala sauce. While the mala is pungent, I thought it was a bit heavy with the sodium chloride.

Prawn Paste Chicken 3.8/5

I think children will love the Prawn Paste Chicken here. Not only is it juicy, but it is also incredibly crispy. However, I prefer the prawn paste flavour to be more distinct.

Sambal Kang Kong 4/5

Sometimes, the most simple dish is the best way to show the chef's culinary skill behind the wok. The Sambal Kang Kong is one of the best I tried. The sambal is fragrant and with the greens still having a nice crunch.

Assam Fish Head 4/5

Another beautiful dish on the menu is the Assam Fish Head. The fresh fish head is complemented by the pungent assam, which is incredibly delicious. I could not help drenching my plate of rice with the flavoursome sauce.

Cereal Fried Rice

For some carbo intakes, diners can go for the Cereal Fried Rice or Moonlight Hor Fun. Children will enjoy the Cereal Fried Rice. The topping of the sweet and crispy cereal brightens up the fluffy fried rice. 

Moonlight Hor Fun 3.8/5

For the Moonlight Hor Fun, I can't help comparing it to my favourite at KEK Seafood. The style here is the savoury type packed with wok hei. Give the egg a good toss to give the noodles an enjoyment coat of creaminess. 

Chilli Crab 4.2/5

Diners should not miss the current two crabs for $60 promotion. We have it cooked with chilli crab sauce. The sauce is legit, and it is one of the best I have eaten. Best is to order some mantou to wipe up the yummy chilli crab sauce. I heard their mala crab and black pepper crab are as good too.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Golden Charcoal Seafood
Blk 204 Bedok North Street 1
#01-435
Singapore 460204
Tel: +65 97304808
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Bedok (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bedok MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left to the pathway between Bedok Mall and Bedok Interchange hawker centre. Walk to the end. Walk to block 204. Walk to the coffeeshop facing the park. Journey time about 4 minutes. [Map]

Founder Bak Kut Teh @ Hotel Boss (Jalan Sultan) - Introduces New Mama's Home-cooked Dishes

Many of you will be familiar with Founder Bak Kut Teh, a well known local restaurant serving the fragrant and peppery pork ribs soup for the past 40 years. Even a lot of foreign celebrities visited the restaurant for their bak kut teh when they were in Singapore, judging from the numerous photos paste around the restaurant taken between these celebrities and founder Mr Chua.

Not to be missed of course is the signature Founder Bak Kut Teh ($8.90). The pork ribs are cooked to tender using the freshest meaty pork ribs, simmered in a specially formulated broth of herbs and spices. Diners can choose among options of ribs, short ribs, lean meats or offal to go with the peppery broth too.

Neighbour's "Ho Liao" 4.2/5

Besides the signature Bak Kut Teh, the restaurant has rolled out a number of new home-cooked dishes paying tribute to their late mother. If you are a fan of chicken feet, you will love their Neighbour's "Ho Liao" ($5/$10). It is cooked in a black bean sauce, just like how their late mum did it for the family.

Cheeky Secret 4/5

Spinach and mushroom are mixed into the tofu for the Cheeky Secret ($8/$14). Parents may want to learn a trick or two here if you're going to make your children consume vegetable.

Too Moody To Eat 3.8/5

Too Moody To Eat ($6.80/$10.80) is pork chop marinated with garlic and pan-fried. The interesting part is the accompanying achar which helps to cut the greasiness.

Grandma's Pork Belly 3.5/5

Braised and cooked to tender is the Grandma's Pork Belly ($12). While the texture is acceptable, I felt that the braising sauce is on the light side and lacks the depth I was looking for.

Best with Rice 4.5/5

One of the new dishes that we all given the thumb of approval is the Best with Rice ($6.80). It is not only a simple steamed egg dish but consists of trio eggs, including century egg and salted egg. On top of that, pork lard is added for that extra boost in flavour and texture.

Once Upon A Gathering 4.2/5

Once Upon A Gathering ($8/$12) is a special dish in the family which is only served during special celebratory occasions. A homely and hearty dish that consists of steamed chicken with Chinese sausages, mushrooms, and ginger.

"Ah Lau" Pan Fried Fish 4.2/5

For the fish lover, there is the "Ah Lau" Pan Fried Fish (Fish Steak $15, Fish Tail $28). The fish is simply pan-fried and served with marinated garlic atop, swimming in a complementing pool of soy sauce.

Year 1988 Assam Teochew Steamed Fish 3.5/5

Last but not least, making an impressive entry is the Year 1988 Assam Teochew Steamed Fish (Fish Steak $15, Fesh Head $25, Fish Tail $28). For the pricing and very value for money. However I find the assam is on the mild side, I think it can be heavier in taste to give it more zest.

Overall, I have enjoyed the meal at Founder Bak Kut Teh. I like the addition of the new dishes, giving diners a more complete meal experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Founder Bak Kut Teh
Hotel Boss
500 Jalan Sultan
#01-09
Singapore 199020
Tel: +65 6816 2582
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Lavender (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 5am

Direction:
1) Alight at Lavender MRT station. Take Exit B. Continue walking down Kallang Road towards Victoria Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Wee's Family Seafood @ Bukit Merah Central - A New Zi Char Place In Bukit Merah Central

It is great to know that my friend Milton from Wee's Family Coffee Shop has opened a 2nd branch nearer to my place at Bukit Merah Central named Wee's Family Seafood. The new branch is actually located behind an industrial building, hidden from the main road. It took up a stall inside the industrial canteen which is quite spacious and airy.

Prawn Paste Chicken Wings 3.8/5

We started with the Prawn Paste Chicken Wings ($8/$12/$16) which are coated in a light crispy batter. The chicken wings were also moist and juicy inside with a hint of prawn paste. I personally prefer the prawn paste flavour to be stronger.

Handmade Prawn Roll 4.5/5

One of our favourite items is the Handmade Prawn Roll ($10/$15/$20). The prawn roll is generously stuffed with many delectable ingredients such as minced pork, mushroom and crunchy chestnut. Marinated in five spice powder and encased in a thin crispy beancurd skin, this is best eaten together with the accompanying sweet sauce.

Green Dragon Chives 4/5

A common greens on the menu is the Green Dragon Chives ($10/$15/$20). Simply stir fried, I like the used of bean sprouts together with the green dragon chives for the extra crunch and bite.

Lamb 3/5

The Lamb ($25) probably is a rather rare dish to find in a zichar menu. I actually quite enjoy the red meat but my dining company is not a fan of the gaminess.

Crispy Pig Knuckle 2.8/5

A dish that required improvement is the Crispy Pig Knuckle ($30). While we enjoyed the crispy skin but we felt the whole execution was rather bland. It felt like the kitchen has forgotten to season it.

Assam Red Snapper Fish Head 3.8/5

For the price, I thought the Assam Red Snapper Fish Head ($24) is rather worth it  Not only was the fish head fresh, it was huge and meaty. Being an assam fish head lover, I think the dish is not sour and spicy enough. The flavours can be intensified further.

Salted Egg Crayfish 4.2/5

Wrapped in a thin batter and coated with salted egg sauce is the Salted Egg Crayfish ($20). What I applauded is the effort to de-shell the crayfish. Its like removing the barrier for the sauce to marry with the succulent crayfish. The batter which replaced the shell, provided the extra layer of texture to the dish.

Three Egg Fu Zhou Mee Sua 3/5

Last but at least we had the Three Egg Fu Zhou Mee Sua ($10/$15/$20). Once again this is a dish I do not usually see in zichar menu. The texture of the noodle is quite similar to those Ban Mian stall's you mian. I thought the dish has great potential but again it was under seasoned. I ended up mixing the mee sua with the sambal chilli to elevate the flavour.

Overall I felt the new branch still fell short in standard compare to the main outlet in Bedok Reservoir Road. Most of the dishes also felt a bit light handed. I thought they can be a little more bold in their seasoning.


Wee's Family Seafood
Blk 1003 Bukit Merah Central
#01-3752
Singapore 159836
Tel: +65 62755711/98798868
Facebook
Nearest MRT:

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at opposite Tiong Bahru Plaza (Stop ID 10161). Take bus number 5. Alight 3 stops later at Bukit Merah Central Bus Interchange. Walk to Bukit Merah Central road. Turn left and walk down the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at opposite Tiong Bahru Plaza (Stop ID 10161). Take bus number 16 and 851. Alight 4 stops later at Bukit Merah Central Bus Interchange. Walk to Bukit Merah Central road. Turn left and walk down the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Eastern House of Seafood @ Chai Chee Drive

If you are a foodie, you would probably often hear the saying that good food resides in the East of Singapore. It is actually quite true with the recent discovery of Eastern House of Seafood located at the HDB block in Chai Chee Drive, woking up a delectable selection of zichar dishes.

Dinosaur Pork Rib 4/5

Don't be mislead that I am having extinct meat in the Dinosaur Pork Rib ($16). The pork rib is hugemongous hence the name. The pork rib is cooked to a nice tender and fell off the bone with ease. I found the sauce on the sweet side but my friends thought otherwise.

Fried Beehoon with Pig Trotter 4.2/5

One of my favourite dishes is the Fried Beehoon with Pig Trotter ($8/$16). The beehoon infused with the pig trotter's essence came across comforting and flavourful. Definitely a dish I would recommend ordering to go with the other delectable dishes on the menu.

Dry Roast Sotong 4.5/5

The Dry Roast Sotong ($15/$22/$28) is a must try at Eastern House of Seafood. Marinated overnight with soy sauce and celery, the sotong is understand to be bathed in hot oil instead of grill. It results in a tender sotong with the marinade kind of glued to the flesh. Every bite into the flesh is returned with a burst of lovely flavours.

French Bean in Tempura Style 3.8/5

I have mixed review of the French Bean in Tempura Style ($15/$20/$25). I think kids will enjoy this with the crispy tempura. However for adult like me probably felt that the batter masked off the natural flavour of the greens.

Prawn with Pork Floss and Rice Cracker 4.2/5

The Prawn with Pork Floss with Rice Cracker is a new dish that the chef prepared for us, this is not even in the menu. The is an addictive change from the usual cereal prawn/ The crunchy prawns accompanied by the pork floss and rice cracker, provides a multi textural enjoyment.

Salted Egg Crab 4.5/5

While Chilli and Black Pepper Crabs are the favourite among manys, I felt that Salted Egg Crabs (2 for $50) has won the hearts of many too, especially those that can't take spicy. At Eastern House of Seafood, the version is consider the dry style using crabs around 500 to 600 grams. One just need to get into it and get your fingers dirty. It is simply finger licking good.

Assam Fish Head 4.5/5

When the Assam Fish Head ($18/$20) was served, the first thing I noticed is the huge portion for the price. This is really value for money. The rich and robust assam gravy with its spiciness and tanginess, made this super shiok! Give me another bowl of rice!

If you are looking for a place to have a good zi char dinner with your family or gathering, I would recommend Eastern House of Seafood. The pricing is very reasonable with good quality and delicious food.


Eastern House of Seafood
Blk 55 Chai Chee Drive
#01-174/6
Singapore 460055
Tel: +65 91508172
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Bedok (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1030pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Bedok MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Bedok MRT station (Stop ID 84039). Take bus number 222. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]