PAUL Singapore Unveils Noël Collection 2025 Featuring An All New Nonya Series

For this upcoming Christmas, PAUL unveils its Noël Collection 2025, a delightful curation of sweets and savouries featuring an all-new Nonya Series. Whether it is an intimate gathering or a grand festive party, each creation is available individually or as part of thoughtfully assembled sets, perfect for celebrations of any size.

Buah Keluak Turkey

Stuffed Buah Keluak, Chilli Cashew Turkey Ham, Butterfly Pea Rice, Strawberry Achar

It was intriguing to see how the Nonya Series played out. The Buah Keluak Turkey (3.5 to 4.5kg, $159) is marinated in an aromatic rempah of turmeric, tamarind and a medley of spices before being roasted to golden perfection. It is served with 6 Buah Keluak Shells stuffed with minced chicken and accompanied by PAUL’s housemade buah keluak sauce. The stuffed buah keluak turned out to be quite a treat, so moreish that six pieces hardly seemed enough. The turkey itself was delightfully tender, and the earthy buah keluak marinade made it much more flavoursome. To complete the experience, accompaniments such as the Butterfly Pea Rice ($15, à la carte) and Strawberry Achar ($20, à la carte) make excellent additions.

Chilli Cashew Turkey Ham

Adding a spicy kick to the lineup is the Chilli Cashew Turkey Ham (1.5kg, $89), glazed with an aromatic blend of chilli, garlic, shallots and ground cashew nuts. It is served with a matching chilli cashew gravy and a jar of PAUL’s signature apricot jam for a touch of sweetness.

Seared Beef Tenderloin & Roasted Potatoes

Lamb Rack

For those who prefer classic festive fare, there is the Seared Beef Tenderloin & Roasted Potatoes ($39) and the Lamb Rack (1kg, $89), served with mint yoghurt and rosemary sauce. The latter was a pleasant surprise, crusted with a crushed-almond-and-lemon mix; the lamb was wonderfully succulent, with just a faint hint of gaminess.

Canapés

Returning this year is PAUL’s signature range of canapés: Maine Lobster & Caviar (box of 8, $42), Wild Mushroom & Truffle (box of 8, $40) and Beef Teriyaki & Wasabi (box of 8, $42). Each was delectable, though I would have preferred a more buttery tart base to elevate the overall taste.

Banana-Rama

Banana-Rama, Merry Berry Lychee, Coco Blush Bauble, Berry Pistachio Snowglobe

On the sweet side, my favourite was the Banana-Rama (from $40), an indulgent creation layered with peanut sponge, caramelised banana and a moreish peanut praline base. Also joining the festive lineup are PAUL’s charming tartlets, including the new Coco Blush Bauble Tartlet (box of 8, $42), a tropical blend of cashew praline and rich cashew coconut cream, and the festive Berry Pistachio Snowglobe Tartlet (box of 8, $42) featuring pistachio custard and raspberry crémeux.

The Noël Collection 2025 will be available for pre-order online or at all PAUL tea-rooms in Singapore from 20 October 2025, with self-collection or delivery available between 10 November 2025 and 31 December 2025.

For more information, please log on to https://www.paul-singapore.com/
Online Orders at https://www.paul-singapore.com/ordering/

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.


PAUL Singapore
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Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu @ One Holland Village - Bringing Its Signature Japanese Beef Cutlet to the West

Fans of Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu can now rejoice, as the famed Japanese beef cutlet specialist opens its second outlet at One Holland Village. Regulars no longer have to brave the perpetual queue at its first Singapore outpost in Raffles City. At this new location, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu – Japan’s largest gyukatsu speciality restaurant, continues to serve up the same authentic flavours and premium beef cuts that have made it so popular.

Sirloin & Tenderloin Gyukatsu Zen 4/5

Sirloin & Beef Tongue Gyukatsu Zen 4/5

During our visit, we sampled the Sirloin & Tenderloin Gyukatsu Zen ($29) and Sirloin & Beef Tongue Gyukatsu Zen ($32). Each steak is carefully selected from choice cuts of prime beef, coated in a koromo batter made from a secret golden ratio of breadcrumbs, flour and egg wash, then deep-fried to medium-rare perfection in fresh oil that’s changed daily. The result is a clean, crisp crust encasing juicy, tender beef within.

Each set is thoughtfully presented with a selection of condiments to complement the flavours of the gyukatsu, alongside rice, miso soup and cabbage salad. The Sirloin offers a balanced cut with just the right amount of marbling, delivering a rich, beefy flavour and satisfying tenderness. The Tenderloin provides a leaner and more delicate bite, while the Beef Tongue impresses with its thick-cut buttery texture and pleasant chew, a treat for those who enjoy something more uncommon. Diners can also sear the beef further on a personal konro (traditional Japanese earthenware grill) to their preferred doneness.

Miyazaki A5 Sirloin ½ portion 4/5

For those seeking an indulgent upgrade, the Miyazaki A5 Sirloin ½ portion ($25) is a must-try. This prized wagyu, hailing from Japan’s award-winning Miyazaki prefecture, boasts exceptional marbling and a melt-in-the-mouth tenderness that epitomises the pinnacle of gyukatsu dining. Lightly crisp on the outside and luxuriously buttery within, every bite reveals the natural richness and umami depth of top-grade wagyu beef.

Whether you’re a returning fan or new to the brand, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu at One Holland Village offers an authentic and satisfying gyukatsu experience that truly lives up to its name.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu
One Holland Village
7 Holland Village Way
#02-46
Singapore 275478
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Lorong Liput. Turn right onto Lorong Liput. Walk down Lorong Liput. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

L'Espresso @ Goodwood Park Hotel - ‘Pink For Good’ English Afternoon Tea Buffet

Commemorating a decade of partnership with the Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF) and in conjunction with its 125th anniversary, Goodwood Park Hotel presents 'Pink For Good', a special edition of its English Afternoon Tea Buffet at L'Espresso. Available from 1 October to 30 November 2025, this initiative underscores the hotel's enduring commitment to the cause in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The BCF plays a vital role in providing support and education for those affected by breast cancer, while championing regular Breast Self-Examinations (BSE) to encourage proactivity about one's health.

Paying homage to the pink ribbon, the universal symbol of breast cancer awareness, the buffet presents an exquisite array of savouries and sweets in delicate shades of pink, contrasted with bold black accents. Elements such as caviar, black truffle, and charcoal-infused breads and pastries lend visual drama and sophistication to the spread.

Greenland Shrimp with Raspberry & Mango Chutney

Turkey Ham with Cranberry Cheese & Black Olive Soil

Starting with dainty bites, open-faced sandwiches are reimagined as tart-like creations in elegant hues of pink, including Crabmeat Salad with Mentaiko Aioli & Black Sesame Seed, Turkey Ham with Cranberry Cheese & Black Olive Soil, and Greenland Shrimp with Raspberry & Mango Chutney.

A selection of Finger Sandwiches offers delectable combinations such as Organic Egg & Black Truffle Mayo, Corned Beef with Caramelised Onion, and Portobello Mushroom & Halloumi Cheese, layered between charcoal and beetroot bread.

Chilled Prawn & Mango Salad with Marie Rose Sauce

Chipotle Tuna Salad with English Cucumber, Caprese Salad with Pesto

Croissant Sandwiches, another staple, are creatively tinted in pink and black for a striking contrast. Variations include Chipotle Tuna Salad with English Cucumber, Caprese Salad with Pesto, and Chilled Prawn & Mango Salad with Marie Rose Sauce.

Salmon Gravlax Platter

The Salmon Gravlax Platter with condiments was one of my favourites, which is a perfect pairing to enjoy alongside the sandwiches and croissants.

Baked Mushroom Strudel drizzled with White Truffle Oil

Black Trumpet Mushroom–Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Hot highlights include comforting and indulgent offerings such as Pork Cottage Pie with Charcoal Mash, Baked Mushroom Strudel drizzled with White Truffle Oil, and Black Trumpet Mushroom–Crusted Beef Tenderloin.

Smoked Salmon Tartare with Crème Fraîche

Black Pink Cupcakes

Buffet specials continue the pink-and-black theme with refined creations, such as Smoked Salmon Tartare with Crème Fraîche topped with Black Caviar elegantly presented in pink cones, alongside Mini Wagyu Beef Charcoal Sliders and Black Pink Cupcakes.

Desserts

Desserts are thoughtfully curated — Black & Pink Macarons, Pink Guava Opera, Raspberry Mille Feuille, Strawberry Éclairs, and more. And of course, no visit would be complete without the Signature Scones Bar, dedicated entirely to scones in an assortment of flavours.

For every paying adult who dines on the 'Pink For Good' English Afternoon Tea Buffet in October and November 2025, the hotel will donate $2 nett to BCF. This contribution will help fund programmes and services for the breast cancer community and support advocacy campaigns that save lives through early detection.

Dine-in reservations can be made via www.goodwoodparkhotel.com/dining/l-espresso or call +65 6730 1743.

'PINK FOR GOOD' ENGLISH AFTERNOON TEA BUFFET
1 October to 30 November 2005
L'Espressossoo $68++ per adult | $46++ per child
Mondays to Thursdays: 2pm to 5.30pm
Fridays to Sundays & Public Holidays: 12pm to 2.30pm | 3pm to 5.30pm

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.


L'Espresso
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301746
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 2pm - 5:30pm
Fri-Sun & PH: 12pm - 2:30pm, 3pm - 5:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes.[Map]

Xiang Kitchen Hunan Cuisine (湘厨湖南菜) @ Ang Mo Kio Ave 10 - Affordable Hunan Flavours in the Heartlands

With the rising popularity of Hunan cuisine, Singaporeans have gradually expanded their repertoire of Chinese food beyond the familiar realms of Cantonese and Sichuan fare. Thanks to the accessibility of restaurants like Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine and Nong Geng Ji, many have come to appreciate the bold, spicy, and smoky characteristics that define Hunan cuisine.

Now, even heartland residents can enjoy authentic and affordable Hunan flavours with the recent opening of Xiang Kitchen Hunan Cuisine at Block 421 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10 kopitiam. Prices here are wallet-friendly, often up to half the cost of the more established restaurants, making it a great entry point for anyone keen to explore the cuisine.

Smashed Century Egg & Chilli 4/5

The Smashed Century Egg & Chilli ($8.90) is a punchy appetiser that perfectly captures the bold and unapologetic flavours of Hunan cuisine. A rustic yet vibrant dish, it features chunks of century egg smashed and tossed with a medley of chopped green chillies, garlic, and aromatics, creating a striking contrast of colours and textures. The creamy, custard-like yolk of the century egg melds beautifully with the fiery crunch of the green chillies. Each bite delivers a spicy, smoky, and umami-laden kick that lingers just long enough to awaken the palate. Bold, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, this fiery starter sets the tone for the robust flavours that follow.

Steamed Rice

Like Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine and Nong Geng Ji, Xiang Kitchen offers fragrant steamed rice served in a whole rice pot. The perfect companion to soak up the rich and punchy flavours of its dishes.

Special Chilli with Stir Fry Beef 4/5

The Special Chilli with Stir-Fry Beef ($15.90) is an appetising dish best enjoyed with a bowl of steamed rice. The beef slices are tender and well-coated with the fragrant mix of chillies and coriander, delivering both aroma and heat. During our visit, the chef had adjusted the spice level in response to customer feedback. If you can handle the heat, please let the staff know you'd prefer the original, fiery version.

Stir Fry Pork 4/5

The Stir-Fry Pork ($12.90) is a quintessential Hunan dish showcasing the cuisine's hallmark balance of smoky heat and savoury intensity. Thinly sliced pork belly is wok-fried over high heat to achieve a light char and enticing wok hei, before being tossed with an aromatic blend of green chillies, garlic, and fermented black beans. The pork remains tender with just the right amount of fat for richness, while the chillies impart a fiery yet fragrant bite. It's a comforting yet exhilarating dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice, embodying the rustic and full-bodied flavours of Hunan cooking. That said, the seasoning could have been a touch bolder to elevate the dish even further.

Mao's Braised Pork 4.5/5

A standout for me was the Mao's Braised Pork ($18.90). The pork belly glistens invitingly in its luscious braised sauce, boasting a tender, juicy texture. Reminiscent of Dong Po Rou, the dish is rich and flavourful yet not overly greasy. It is a satisfying balance of fat and umami that makes it one of the highlights here.

Organic Cauliflower 4.2/5

The Organic Cauliflower ($11.90) may appear unassuming and straightforward, but it's a well-executed dish with delightful crunch. Stir-fried with pork lard, red chillies, and coriander, it's aromatic and lightly spicy, with just enough richness to make a humble vegetable shine.

Golden Soup Pickled Vegetable with Fish 4.2/5

Another must-try is the Golden Soup Pickled Vegetable with Fish ($16.90). The fish is poached to a soft, tender texture and served in a spicy, sourish golden broth that balances heat and tang beautifully. It's a comforting yet invigorating dish that rounds out the meal with finesse.

Xiang Kitchen Hunan Cuisine brings authentic Hunan flavours to the neighbourhood at affordable prices, offering dishes that are both hearty and satisfying. While a few items could benefit from a heavier hand with seasoning, the overall execution and value make it a worthy contender in Singapore's growing Hunan food scene. It is a great spot to satisfy your craving for bold, spicy, and smoky Chinese fare without breaking the bank.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xiang Kitchen Hunan Cuisine (湘厨湖南菜)
Blk 421 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10
Singapore 560421
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Nearest MRT: Ang Mo Kio (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Ang Mo Kio MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road and walk down Ang Mo Kio Ave 8 under the MRT track. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Ang Mo Kio MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to Ang Mo Kio bus interchange (Stop ID 54009). Take bus number 22, 24, 135 and 262. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Wa-EN Wagyu Yakiniku @ Jewel Changi Airport - Ultimate All-Day Premium Miyazaki Wagyu Buffet

Wa-En Wagyu Yakiniku, recognised in the Michelin Guide in 2016 and 2017, has been delighting diners in Singapore at Jewel Changi Airport with its premium A4 and A5 Japanese Wagyu. The restaurant is elevating the indulgence with the launch of an all-you-can-eat Japanese Wagyu and sashimi-grade seafood buffet, priced at $168++ (special launch price of $138++ until 15 October 2025).

Wa-En Wagyu Assemble Set for Two

The highlight of the experience begins with the Wa-En Wagyu Assemble Set for Two, headlined by the show-stopping Miyazaki Sirloin, a prized cut served exclusively as a one-time order. Richly marbled, tender and succulent, this sirloin is the show-stopper that sets the tone for the indulgent spread ahead.

Beyond the sirloin, diners can enjoy unlimited servings of premium cuts, including:
● Premium Miyazaki Wagyu Karubi
● Premium Miyazaki Wagyu Karubi with Salt Sauce
● Premium Miyazaki Wagyu Chuck Roll
● Premium Miyazaki Wagyu Saikoro
● Australian Wagyu in Grilling Sauce
● Australian Wagyu Karubi in Salt Sauce

The selection doesn’t stop at beef cuts. Wa-En elevates the experience with refined specialities like Thin-Sliced Wagyu Tongue, Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Yukke, Seared Miyazaki Wagyu Sushi with Ikura, and Wagyu Tsukimi. Each dish showcases Wagyu in different textures and expressions, making the buffet more than just a grill-and-eat affair.

The pleasure of the buffet lies in its endless supply of A4–A5 Miyazaki Wagyu, seared over flames right at the table. Every slice is beautifully marbled, melting with rich umami. It is a true indulgence for meat lovers.

Wa-En’s Yakiniku Wagyu Buffet is more than just dinner; it’s a feast of grit, flame, and reward. For a limited time, the buffet is available at a special launch price of $138++ per adult until 15 October 2025. Prices are subject to prevailing GST and service charge. For more information or to make your reservation, visit the official website here: https://wa-en.com.sg.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wa-EN Wagyu Yakiniku
Jewel Changi Airport
78 Airport Boulevard
#01-224
Singapore 819666
Tel: +65 6246 7488
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Changi Airport MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]