WHUCHU @ UE Square - Elevated Korean Ssam Dining with Aged Jeju Pork and Wagyu Beef

Newly opened at UE Square, WHUCHU reimagines ssam (쌈), one of Korea’s most cherished dining traditions, as a more refined, interactive dining experience. The concept centres on freshness, fermentation, and craftsmanship, bringing together farm-to-table vegetables flown in from Korea, authentic Korean jeotgal (fermented salted seafood), and premium 100% certified Jeju pork aged in-house.

By day, WHUCHU offers a wellness-led ssambap experience, where fresh Korean greens take centre stage. In the evening, the restaurant transforms into a premium Korean BBQ destination, with aged meats grilled over high heat and enjoyed with an assortment of vegetables and fermented accompaniments.

I visited with a friend for dinner and chose the Signature Set ($188), designed for 2–3 people. The set includes a choice of two BBQ meats, Pot Rice, a choice of Cold Kimchi Noodle, Pork Belly Kimchi Stew or Beef Soybean Tofu Stew, a choice of Tofu & Stir-Fried Kimchi, Minari Pancake or Potato Pancake, and finishes with gelato for dessert.

For our meal, we picked the Aged Bone-in Pork Belly and Wagyu Beef Brisket for the BBQ meats, along with the Pork Belly Kimchi Stew and Minari Pancake.

Aged Bone-in Pork Belly 4.2/5

The Aged Bone-in Pork Belly was easily one of my highlights. Made with 100% certified natural Jeju pork sourced directly from Korea, the pork undergoes a combination of wet and dry ageing in-house. The wet ageing helps tenderise the meat, while the subsequent dry ageing concentrates the flavour, giving the pork a deeper and more developed taste.

Cut thick around the bone, the pork belly was beautifully marbled with a good amount of fat. Once it hits the grill, the fat slowly renders, crisping up the edges while keeping the meat juicy and tender. The slightly charred exterior contrasts with the rich, succulent pork within. It is the kind of cut that is delicious on its own, but even better when wrapped in fresh greens with rice and a little jeotgal.

Wagyu Beef Brisket 4.2/5

The Wagyu Beef Brisket offered a completely different experience. With its generous intramuscular marbling, the beef quickly renders its rich fat when grilled over high heat, coating the meat in its own buttery juices. The result is incredibly tender, with a rich, beefy and savoury flavour.

It is definitely on the more decadent side, with the high fat content giving each bite that almost melt-in-the-mouth texture. I found it particularly enjoyable wrapped up with the fresh vegetables, which helped cut through the richness and added a refreshing crunch.

Authentic Korean Jeotgal 4/5

One thing that sets WHUCHU apart is its emphasis on authentic Korean Jeotgal, rather than treating it as a side dish. Traditionally used as a concentrated flavour enhancer, jeotgal brings an intense hit of umami, saltiness and fermentation to the meal. WHUCHU offers a selection including Salted Pollock Roe, Seasoned Sea Squirt, Spicy Fermented Oysters and Spicy Salted Squid, each with its own distinct character. Some are rich and silky, while others are briny, spicy and deeply savoury. Enjoy them in small amounts, paired with the greens, rice, and grilled meats to create your own ssam combination.

Fresh Vegetables

And speaking of greens, the selection of fresh vegetables is an important part of the experience here. The wrap vegetables are flown in from Korea daily and include Fresh Garlic Leaves, Angelica, Red Lettuce, Perilla Leaves and Lettuce. Rather than being an afterthought to the meat, the greens form an integral part of the meal. Pick your preferred leaf, add rice, grilled meat, and a touch of jeotgal, then wrap it all into one bite. Each vegetable brings a different texture and flavour, from crisp and refreshing lettuce to the distinctive herbal aroma of perilla.

Minari Pancake 4.2/5

The Minari Pancake was another pleasant surprise. Instead of the thick, doughy pancakes you might sometimes encounter, WHUCHU’s version uses a light batter to bind a generous amount of whole minari stalks. Fried until crisp, the edges had a satisfying crunch while the minari retained a juicy bite. The Korean water parsley gives the pancake a clean, grassy, slightly peppery herbal flavour that comes through nicely without the batter masking it. It was airy, crunchy and surprisingly light rather than greasy, making it an enjoyable accompaniment to the richer BBQ meats.

We also had the Pork Belly Kimchi Stew, which brought a comforting, warming element to the meal. The tangy and savoury kimchi broth works particularly well alongside the fatty grilled meats, while the pork belly adds another layer of richness. It is the sort of dish that helps round out the meal, especially when paired with steamed rice.

For those looking for a more elevated Korean BBQ experience, WHUCHU at UE Square offers a polished take on the traditional ssam culture, with premium aged meats and Korean-sourced produce forming the heart of the experience. The Aged Bone-in Pork Belly was my favourite of the two meats, while the Wagyu Beef Brisket will appeal to those who prefer a richer, more indulgent cut. With its focus on ageing, fermentation, and fresh Korean vegetables, WHUCHU brings a more thoughtful dimension to Korean BBQ while still keeping the fun, communal nature of wrapping, grilling, and sharing.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


WHUCHU Korean Dining
UE Square
81 Clemenceau Ave
#01-18
Singapore 239917
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 1130am - 11pm
Fri-Sat, PH: 1130am - 1130pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to the traffic junction between Clemenceau Ave and River Valley Road. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Walk to the destination. The journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Mui Kee @ Raffles City - Opens Second Outlet with New Dishes and Nostalgic Hong Kong Vibes

Famed for its comforting bowls of silky congee, Mui Kee has opened its second outlet at Raffles City Shopping Centre, bringing with it more than 20 new and exclusive dishes alongside its well-loved signatures. Stepping into the space feels like a quick trip back in time — the relaxed, open-concept dining room is decked out with cosy booth seating, maroon subway tiles, retro lightboxes, and the brand’s signature mahjong tile feature wall. The ambience channels the bustling charm of mid-century Hong Kong, but in a modern, fuss-free setting that invites diners to linger.

Preserved Bitter Gourd 4/5

We began our meal with the Preserved Bitter Gourd ($9.80), a dish that pleasantly surprised. For those who typically shy away from bitter gourd, this rendition is a revelation. The preservation process significantly mellows the inherent bitterness, leaving a gentle, almost tangy profile. What stood out most was its crunch — each bite delivered a refreshing, crisp texture that made it unexpectedly addictive.

Handcrafted Wantons in Fragrant Chilli Oil, Garlic & Vinegar 3.8/5

Next came the Handcrafted Wantons in Fragrant Chilli Oil, Garlic & Vinegar ($11.80). At first glance, the dish appeared deceptively mild, lacking the fiery red hue one might expect. However, it quickly proved otherwise. The chilli oil carried a fragrant heat that built gradually, complemented by the sharpness of vinegar and the savoury depth of garlic. The wantons themselves were well-executed — thin-skinned, delicately wrapped, and filled with a juicy prawn and pork mixture that burst with flavour.

Signature Braised Beef Brisket & Tendons with White Radish 3.8/5

The Signature Braised Beef Brisket & Tendons with White Radish ($31.80) showcased hearty, comforting flavours. The brisket and tendons were braised until tender, absorbing the rich, savoury sauce beautifully. The white radish, soft and porous, acted like a sponge, soaking up the robust braising liquid. While the dish delivered on flavour and texture, the portion size felt slightly modest for its price point.

Shredded Duck & Preserved Vegetables Cheong Fun 4.2/5

A highlight from the new offerings was the Shredded Duck & Preserved Vegetables Cheong Fun ($9.20). This inventive combination brought together roasted shredded duck and preserved vegetables wrapped in silky cheong fun sheets, finished with a drizzle of savoury sauce. Initially an unconventional pairing, it turned out to be a harmonious one — the richness of the duck balanced by the slight tang and crunch of the preserved vegetables, all encased in soft, smooth rice rolls.

Housemade Pork Meatballs Congee 4.2/5

Of course, no visit to Mui Kee is complete without its signature congee. The Housemade Pork Meatballs Congee ($12.90) delivered exactly what the brand is known for — a bowl of velvety, smooth rice porridge with a consistency that borders on creamy. The pork meatballs were tender and well-seasoned, making this a comforting, hearty dish that warms both the stomach and soul.

Shrimp Roe with Mushroom Noodles 3/5

The Shrimp Roe with Mushroom Noodles ($13.80) highlighted the hallmark springy texture of Hong Kong-style noodles, cooked to that signature QQ bite. While the noodles themselves were commendable, the shrimp roe flavour leaned on the subtler side and didn’t quite leave a strong impression. That said, the mushrooms added a juicy, umami richness that helped lift the overall dish.

Grass Jelly with Longan 4/5

Ending on a sweet note, the desserts proved to be more than just an afterthought. The Grass Jelly with Longan ($5.50) was light, cooling, and refreshing — perfect after a hearty meal. Even more impressive was the Tau Suan ($5.50), a traditional mung bean dessert elevated by fragrant tangerine peel. It struck a comforting balance of sweetness and depth, making it a standout and a must-order.

Tau Suan 4.5/5

Mui Kee’s newest outlet successfully blends nostalgia with innovation, offering its classic favourites alongside an expanded menu featuring fresh interpretations of Hong Kong comfort food. Whether you’re here for a hearty bowl of congee or to explore its new dishes, it’s a spot that delivers warmth, flavour, and a touch of old-school charm.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mui Kee
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#B1-46
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 9819 3211
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 9:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Crystal Jade Group Celebrates National Day with Elevated Singapore-Inspired Creations

In celebration of Singapore’s 61st National Day, Crystal Jade Group presents a thoughtfully curated National Day Collection that pays homage to the nation’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. Available from 10 July to 30 August 2026 across its portfolio of restaurants, the limited-time showcase reinterprets familiar local flavours through the lens of refined Chinese cuisine. Staying true to its philosophy of honouring tradition while elevating it with culinary craftsmanship and premium ingredients, the collection brings together a series of inventive dishes that evoke both nostalgia and sophistication.

Crystal Jade Palace: White Pepper Crab Meat in Golden Tart 4.5/5

We had the opportunity to sample selections across several of its concepts, each offering a unique take on beloved Singaporean flavours.

Starting at Crystal Jade Palace, the White Pepper Crab Meat in Golden Tart ($22 for 6 pcs) is an elegant bite-sized tribute to one of Singapore’s iconic seafood dishes. Sweet, succulent crab meat is delicately sautéed with ginger, spring onion and a generous hit of fragrant white pepper, before being nestled into crisp golden tartlet shells made from spring roll pastry. Each bite delivers a harmonious balance of peppery warmth and natural sweetness, making it dangerously moreish.

Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen: Pan-Fried Hainanese Chicken Rice Dumpling 4.5/5

At Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen, the Pan-Fried Hainanese Chicken Rice Dumpling ($6.80 for 3 pcs) offers a clever reinterpretation of Singapore’s unofficial national dish. Crisp on the outside and soft within, the rice flour dumplings encase a fragrant filling of glutinous rice and tender chicken, infused with ginger, garlic and pandan. Served with a house-made chicken rice chilli, the dish captures the essence of the original while presenting it in a refreshing new format.

Crystal Jade Pavilion: Chargrilled Scallop & Rojak Tartlet 4/5

Another highlight from Crystal Jade Pavilion is the Chargrilled Scallop & Rojak Tartlet ($18.80 for 8 pcs). The crisp ‘pie tee’ shell holds a vibrant rojak-inspired medley of jicama, pineapple and cucumber, lightly coated in rojak sauce. Crowned with a smoky chargrilled scallop, the dish delivers a lively interplay of sweet, tangy and savoury flavours with contrasting textures.

Crystal Jade Golden Palace: Sesame Otah Toast 4/5

Over at Crystal Jade Golden Palace, the Sesame Otah Toast ($14.80 for 4 pcs) gives a nostalgic favourite a refined twist. Inspired by classic prawn toast, it features a generous layer of house-made otah prawn paste, coated with sesame seeds and deep-fried to a golden crisp. The result is a fragrant, crunchy bite packed with spice and umami.

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao: Wok-Fried Prawns in XO Sauce 4/5

Seafood lovers will enjoy the Wok-Fried Prawns with Jackfruit & Pineapple in XO Sauce ($23.80/Regular) from Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao. The prawns are plump and bouncy, coated in a robust XO sauce that delivers a savoury, mildly spicy punch. The addition of jackfruit and pineapple introduces a natural sweetness that brightens the dish and adds a unique tropical dimension.

Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen: Sizzling Pig Blood Curd & Tofu 4.2/5

For something more adventurous, the Sizzling Pig Blood Curd & Tofu with Salted Fish & Minced Meat ($16.80/Regular) at Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen is a comforting claypot dish that showcases an often underappreciated ingredient. Silky pig blood curd and tofu are braised with minced pork and salted fish in a deeply aromatic base of ginger, garlic and chillies. Rich, savoury and intensely satisfying, it is a dish that rewards the more curious diner.

Crystal Jade Pavilion: Australian Wagyu Beef Brisket in Pineapple Nanyang Curry 4.2/5

A hearty centrepiece comes in the form of the Australian Wagyu Beef Brisket in Pineapple Nanyang Curry ($42/Regular) at Crystal Jade Pavilion. The tender wagyu brisket is slow-braised in a fragrant curry enriched with pineapple, okra, onions and kaffir lime leaf. The pineapple lends a gentle sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the beef, resulting in a well-balanced curry that is both indulgent and distinctly local.

Crystal Jade Palace: Braised Rice Vermicelli with Seafood in Satay Sauce 4/5

Carbohydrate lovers should not miss the Braised Rice Vermicelli with Seafood in Satay Sauce ($36/Regular) at Crystal Jade Palace. The thick vermicelli is braised with prawns and squid in a robust ‘sha cha’ sauce, delivering deep umami flavours with a pronounced wok hei. It is a comforting dish that draws clear inspiration from Singapore’s hawker fare.

Crystal Jade Golden Palace: Chilled Durian Coconut Ice Jelly 4.2/5

Ending on a sweet note, the Chilled Durian Coconut Ice Jelly ($6.80/pax) at Crystal Jade Golden Palace is a refreshing dessert that celebrates tropical flavours. The silky coconut jelly is paired with a generous portion of durian flesh and strands of chendol, offering a delightful balance between creamy richness and light sweetness.

Crystal Jade Pavilion: Lychee Pastry 3.5/5

The Lychee Pastry ($12 for 3 pcs) from Crystal Jade Pavilion presents a delicate finish, featuring a crisp pastry shell filled with lychee and Chinese yam. While light and refreshing, the yam filling may not appeal to those who prefer more traditional fillings.

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao: Kaya Mochi 4.2/5

Lastly, the Kaya Mochi ($5.80 for 3 pcs) at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao is an addictive treat. The soft, stretchy mochi encases a fragrant kaya filling, delivering a harmonious combination of textures and flavours that makes it hard to stop at just one.

Overall, Crystal Jade’s National Day Collection succeeds in reimagining Singapore’s beloved flavours with creativity and finesse. Each dish reflects a thoughtful balance between nostalgia and innovation, offering diners a fresh perspective on familiar tastes while preserving their cultural essence. Available for a limited time only, this collection is a fitting tribute to Singapore’s vibrant culinary heritage and well worth exploring across the group’s various dining concepts.

PROMOTIONS
From 10 July to 30 August 2026, Jadeite Members and OCBC Cardmembers can enjoy 15% off with a minimum order of two National Day Special dishes at participating Crystal Jade restaurants. *Terms and conditions apply.

Note: This is an invited tasting.

Alijiang (阿里疆) @ VivoCity - Bringing The Bold, Rustic Flavours of Xinjiang to Singapore

Located on the third floor of VivoCity, Alijiang (阿里疆) brings the bold, rustic flavours of Xinjiang cuisine to the southern coast of Singapore. Since first opening in February 2019, the restaurant has built a steady following over the past seven years, offering diners a vibrant taste of the Silk Road in an upbeat yet polished setting, complete with views overlooking the Sentosa gateway.

Uae Salad 阿联酋沙拉 (Green Salad with Secret Sauce) 4/5

We began the meal with the UAE Salad 阿联酋沙拉 ($29.80), a refreshing cold appetiser that provides a welcome contrast to the robust, spice-laden dishes typical of Xinjiang cuisine. A medley of greens, avocado, and figs is brought together by a savoury, tangy vinaigrette with a gentle sweetness, making it both appetising and well-balanced.

Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 4/5

Next, the Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 ($3.20/pc) offered a lighter alternative to the restaurant’s signature lamb skewers. Made with succulent chunks of chicken thigh, the skewers are grilled over high heat, achieving a smoky, lightly charred exterior while retaining a juicy interior. The seasoning carries the hallmark bold spices of Northwestern Chinese cuisine but remains approachable even for those less accustomed to stronger flavours.

Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 4.5/5

A highlight of the evening was the Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 ($38/$58), a comforting dish that showcases the Central Asian influence on Xinjiang cooking. The brisket is slow-cooked until fork-tender, with just enough fat to enrich the dish. The tomato-based gravy is thick and robust, offering a natural balance of acidity and sweetness. Presented in a pastry-sealed vase, the dish is theatrically poured into a pot at the table, with the pastry serving as a delightful accompaniment to soak up the luscious sauce.

Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 4.5/5

Equally impressive was the Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 ($28.80), arguably the most iconic dish of Xinjiang cuisine. This hearty communal plate features bone-in chicken pieces braised in a deeply aromatic sauce, alongside chunks of potato that have beautifully absorbed the rich flavours. Beneath the dish lie wide, hand-pulled belt noodles, prized for their chewy “QQ” texture. Designed to soak up the spicy gravy, the noodles are an essential and satisfying component of the dish.

Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot 3.8/5

For dessert, the Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot 酸奶凉糕 ($7.80/pax) offered an interesting interplay of textures. The house-made yoghurt is thicker and tangier than usual, paired with chewy glutinous rice pearls that lend a mochi-like bite. A sweet apricot sauce ties the elements together with a light floral sweetness.

Homemade Vrum Yoghurt 5/5

However, the true standout was the Homemade Vrum Yoghurt 自制奶皮子酸奶 ($4.80). Exceptionally thick and creamy, it boasts a custard-like consistency with a pronounced tangy profile. Made in limited quantities daily, it is highly sought after and often sells out — a testament to its popularity and quality.

Alijiang at VivoCity delivers a distinctive dining experience that highlights the rich culinary heritage of Xinjiang. From smoky skewers to hearty stews and unique dairy-based desserts, the menu captures the essence of Silk Road flavours while remaining accessible to the local palate. It is a compelling destination for those looking to explore a different facet of Chinese cuisine beyond the familiar.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Alijiang (阿里疆)
VivoCity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#03-11
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 62524979
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Meatsmith @ Telok Ayer Street - A Solid Spot For Quality Smoked Meats And Indulgent Comfort Food

Located in the heart of Telok Ayer, Meatsmith has long been known for its smoked meats and American BBQ. Equipped with custom-built wood-fire elevation grills and giant Southern Pride smokers, the menu features burgers, steaks, sharing platters, housemade sausages, smoked beef brisket, burnt ends, and ribs smoked over hickory wood for up to 14 hours.

Padron Peppers 5/5

To start, we had the Padron Peppers ($12). Generously seasoned with salt and blistered, the peppers carried a smoky, slightly bitter profile, elevated and rounded off by the accompanying harissa and labneh dip.

Double Cheeseburger 5/5

Meatsmith’s burgers have become a source of comfort for many. We noticed a few regulars quietly enjoying theirs alongside a side or a glass of wine. We were treated to a Double Cheeseburger ($20), featuring double beef brisket patties, sandwiched between a housemade potato bun, with American, sliced cheddar, house pickles, and burger sauce. The patties were exceptionally juicy and flavourful, with smoky, caramelised edges that added depth to each bite. The bun was fluffy and buttery without turning soggy at the bottom, while the pickles provided just the right acidity to cut through the richness.

Smoked Meat Platter for Two

Large-format sharing platters are a main draw here. We had the Smoked Meat Platter for Two ($98), comprising beef brisket, cheese and jalapeño sausage, lime and chipotle glazed pork ribs, Memphis pork ribs, pulled pork, chicken tenders, cornbread, buffalo sauce, smoked butter, and housemade pickles.

Lime and Chipotle Glazed Pork Ribs, Memphis-style Ribs 5/5

The standout for me was the Pork Ribs. They were succulent and juicy overall, with the Lime and Chipotle glazed version delivering a more finger-licking, zesty stickiness. The Memphis-style ribs leaned towards a drier rub, resulting in a more pronounced crust.

Beef Brisket 3.5/5

The Beef Brisket was tender but slightly on the drier side, though the ribbons of smoky fat helped retain some richness and enhanced its texture, especially when paired with the accompanying sauce and smoked butter.

Cheese and Jalapeño Sausage 4/5

Cornbreads 4/5

The housemade Cheese and Jalapeño Sausage was robustly spiced and smoky, pairing especially well with the sweet Cornbreads. I only wish there were more of the cornbreads, as they provided a morsel-like, sweet respite between bites of the savoury meats.

Chicken Tenders 3/5

The Chicken Tenders weren’t particularly tender, but their golden-brown crust delivered a satisfying crunch and flavour with each bite. They were finished with a light drizzle of blue cheese sauce, though a more generous amount would have helped these chicken tenders stand out.

Mac and Cheese 3/5

Sweet Corn and Creole Butter 4.5/5

The platters can be made even more wholesome by adding sides. We had the Mac and Cheese ($10), the Kale and Feta Salad ($10), and the Sweet Corn and Creole Butter ($10). The latter stood out the most, with a pronounced smokiness that added depth to its natural sweetness. That said, given the choice, I would happily add on more cornbreads!

I can see why Meatsmith continues to hold its own as a go-to spot for hearty American BBQ. Be it solo diners, pairs, or larger group gatherings, its fuss-free format caters effortlessly to all, whether you are indulging in a well-made burger on your own or bonding over a satisfying, meat-centric feast with others.

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.


Meatsmith
167-169 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068620
Tel: +65 6221 2262
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Fri: 1130am – 3pm, 530pm till Late
Sat & Sun: 12pm till Late

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]