Linkus (临家) @ Takashimaya - Where Minnan Heritage Meets Modern Elegance

After drawing long queues at its debut Singapore outlet, LINKUS (临家) enters its next chapter with a new and more refined concept at Takashimaya Shopping Centre. Helmed by Executive Head Chef Lin Qiuyong, who brings over two decades of experience in Minnan cuisine, the restaurant offers an elegant showcase of Southern Fujian’s rich culinary heritage. The menu reflects a thoughtful balance between tradition and modernity, spotlighting premium seafood, time-honoured techniques and a deep respect for natural flavours.

The name “Linjia” (临家), meaning “a neighbour’s house”, encapsulates the brand’s philosophy of warm, heartfelt hospitality. Despite its elevated setting, the dining experience remains grounded in comfort and generosity, where guests are welcomed as family and treated to dishes that celebrate both craftsmanship and cultural roots.

Passion Fruit Juice Marinated Fruit Pulp 3/5

We began the meal with the Passion Fruit Juice Marinated Fruit Pulp ($9.90). Served chilled, the appetiser offered a refreshing burst of tropical sweetness, with the house-made passion fruit dressing lending a bright, tangy lift. While the flavours were vibrant, the texture of the passion fruit pulp may not appeal to everyone.

Fujian Rice Wine Marinated Mantis Prawn 4.2/5

A standout starter was the Fujian Rice Wine Marinated Mantis Prawn ($75 per piece). The premium mantis prawn was delicately infused with aged Fujian rice wine, enhancing its natural sweetness with a mellow, aromatic depth. Paired with a luscious runny yolk, the dish impressed with its precise cooking — the roe gently set on the outside while remaining silky and molten within. A luxurious and well-executed creation.

Flying Fish Roe Tossed with First Harvest Laver 4.5/5

Equally memorable was the Flying Fish Roe Tossed with First Harvest Laver ($16.90). This refreshing cold dish highlights prized first-harvest laver, known for its tender texture and deep oceanic umami. The addition of briny flying fish roe provided delightful bursts of flavour, complementing the laver’s subtle sweetness and clean finish.

Hand-Hooked Squid Tubes in Chilli Oil 4.2/5

Seafood continues to shine in the Hand-Hooked Squid Tubes in Chilli Oil ($49.90). Using hand-line-caught Dongshan squid, the dish showcases a beautifully crisp and springy texture, achieved through gentle poaching and chilling. The house-made chilli oil adds a fragrant, mildly numbing spice that enhances rather than overwhelms the squid’s natural sweetness.

Puff Pastry Curry Marbled Beef Steak 4.2/5

Moving on to heartier offerings, the Puff Pastry Curry Marbled Beef Steak ($42.90) draws inspiration from Quanzhou’s Maritime Silk Road heritage. Encased in a crisp, buttery puff pastry, the tender, marbled beef is paired with an aromatic, gently spiced, deeply comforting curry. The pastry shatters delicately with each bite, revealing succulent meat within — a harmonious blend of richness and warmth without being cloying.

Quanzhou Ginger Duck with Abalone 4.5/5

A dish steeped in history, the Quanzhou Ginger Duck with Abalone ($42.90/$79.90) traces its roots back to imperial cuisine. Slow-braised with generous amounts of old ginger and black sesame oil, the duck is deeply infused with warming aromatics. The addition of premium abalone lends a refined briny sweetness, elevating the dish into something both nourishing and indulgent — a true reflection of Minnan culinary wisdom.

Marble Goby with Green Sichuan Peppercorns 4.2/5

For seafood lovers, the Marble Goby with Green Sichuan Peppercorns ($109) is a must-order. The fish is gently cooked to preserve its delicate, naturally sweet flesh, while the green Sichuan peppercorns lend a light, citrusy fragrance and a subtle, numbing spice. The balance is precise, allowing the fish's quality to take centre stage.

Stewed Local Chicken Soup with Ficus Hirta and Poria Cocos 4.5/5

Comfort arrives in the form of the Stewed Local Chicken Soup with Ficus Hirta and Poria Cocos ($79). Double-boiled to achieve clarity and depth, the soup is soothing yet full-bodied, with the herbal notes of five-finger fig harmonising beautifully with the chicken's natural sweetness. It is a nourishing, understated highlight that reflects the essence of Fujian home cooking.

Baked Crab with DaHongPao Sichuan Peppercorn 4.5/5

Another highlight that underscores the kitchen’s finesse with seafood is the Baked Crab with DaHongPao Sichuan Peppercorn (market price). Staying true to Minnan cooking philosophy, the dish allows the crab's natural sweetness to shine, enhanced by the aromatic complexity of DaHongPao Sichuan peppercorns. The peppercorns lend a floral fragrance and a gentle tingling heat that lifts the sweetness of the crab without overpowering it. Each bite is a delicate balance of briny richness and spice, showcasing a restrained yet confident approach to seasoning that lets the quality of the ingredient take centre stage.

Red Mushroom & Crab Stir-Fried Hutou Rice Noodle 4/5

Another standout is the Red Mushroom & Crab Stir-Fried Hutou Rice Noodle ($99). Once presented as a tribute to the Qing imperial court, these noodles carry a rich historical legacy. Wok-fried with sweet crab and prized Sanming red mushrooms, the dish is imbued with a deep, seafood-forward umami, complemented by the mushrooms' earthy fragrance.

Signature Xiamen Abalone Taro Bun 4/5

The Signature Xiamen Abalone Taro Bun ($12.90) offers a refined take on a beloved classic. The creamy taro exterior, with its gentle sweetness, pairs beautifully with the savoury abalone filling, resulting in a comforting yet elevated bite that showcases the finesse of Minnan cuisine.

Dogfish Simmered in Soy Sauce with Shark Liver 4.2/5

A more robust dish, the Dogfish Simmered in Soy Sauce with Shark Liver ($99), highlights traditional coastal flavours. Braised in aged Minnan soy sauce — often referred to as the “black gold of Xiamen” — the dish delivers deep umami richness, with the silky shark liver adding a luxurious texture.

Pan-Fried Oyster & Seaweed Pancake 4.5/5

For something closer to street fare, the Pan-Fried Oyster & Seaweed Pancake ($35.90) reimagines a Fujian snack with plump oysters and fragrant laver. Crisp at the edges and tender within, it celebrates the natural sweetness of coastal ingredients in a familiar yet elevated format.

Yuba Simmered with Spinach 4/5

Balancing the meal is the Yuba Simmered with Spinach ($17.90), a simple yet comforting dish where silky yuba and fresh spinach are gently cooked in a clear broth. The clean flavours offer a welcome respite amidst the richer dishes.

Xiamen Classic Satay Hot Pot 4.2/5

The Xiamen Classic Satay Hot Pot ($39.90), recognised as one of Xiamen’s top signature dishes, delivers a deeply flavourful shacha broth infused with dried seafood, peanuts and spices. Nutty, savoury and intensely aromatic, it is best enjoyed with crispy youtiao for dipping, soaking up the rich broth.

Quanzhou Wrapped Pork & Radish Rice 4/5

Staple comfort comes in the Quanzhou Wrapped Pork & Radish Rice ($22.90/$28.90). Rooted in humble origins, the dish reflects the ingenuity of Minnan cuisine, with radish adding both sweetness and symbolic meaning of good fortune. It is simple, hearty and deeply nostalgic.

Taro Paste with Bird’s Nest in Coconut Cup 4.5/5

To end on a sweet note, the Taro Paste with Bird’s Nest in Coconut Cup offers a refined dessert experience. The silky taro paste, paired with premium bird’s nest and served within a fresh coconut, delivers delicate sweetness and a soothing finish.

Sesame Ball stuffed with Seaweed 4.2/5

A unique surprise comes in the Sesame Ball stuffed with Seaweed, a creative twist on the traditional snack. Swapping the usual sweet fillings for a savoury seaweed centre works remarkably well, with the nutty sesame aroma complementing the chewy texture.

Overall, LINKUS (临家) at Takashimaya successfully elevates Minnan cuisine into a refined dining experience without losing its soul. Through meticulous technique, premium ingredients and a deep respect for tradition, the restaurant presents a compelling journey through Southern Fujian’s culinary heritage. Whether you are new to Minnan cuisine or familiar with its comforting flavours, LINKUS offers both discovery and nostalgia on a single table.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Linkus (临家)
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
391 Orchard Road
#04-22
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 8972 7999
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight toward Ngee Ann City until you reach the destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

HighHouse @ One Raffles Place - Limited Time Collaboration with Two Michelin Starred Meta

For its latest edition of The High Table, HighHouse has partnered with Chef Sun Kim of two-Michelin-starred Meta for a limited-time collaboration that brings his distinctive brand of contemporary Korean cuisine to HighHouse. Available until 27 June, the exclusive Korean-themed menu highlights Chef Sun’s ability to draw upon his heritage and traditional cuisine, while incorporating modern techniques and global influences.

Perched above the city with sweeping views of Singapore’s skyline, HighHouse offers a dynamic backdrop where guests can dine, socialise and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. As the day turns into night and the music picks up, the ambience becomes very lively.

For The High Table, Chef Sun Kim adapts to HighHouse’s convivial dining concept, presenting a collection of dishes that are sophisticated yet approachable and designed to be enjoyed in a more relaxed, social setting with plenty of drinks.

Our meal began with a selection of appetisers, accompanied by mocktails from HighHouse’s extensive drinks programme, which offers a wide range of cocktails, wines, spirits and non-alcoholic options to suit different preferences.

Eggplant with Salsa 4.2/5

I enjoyed the Eggplant with Salsa ($28), which featured crisp, fried eggplant topped with puffed quinoa, confit garlic, and a citrus-soy dressing. Moreish, crispy and easy to share, it works especially well as a bar snack.

Beef Carpaccio

The Beef Carpaccio ($32) features hay-smoked beef tenderloin complemented by charred leeks and mustard dressing. It looked promising; however, as neither my dining companion nor I could consume raw beef, we were unfortunately unable to sample this dish.

Grilled Spanish Octopus 4.2/5

Served as part of the lunch set menu, the Grilled Spanish Octopus was well executed, with a lightly crisp exterior and a tender, succulent interior. It was served on a bed of cream-cooked potatoes and accompanied by a herb dressing, olives, and sweet Chitose tomatoes for bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavours that we enjoyed.

Kingfish Sashimi 3.8/5

The Kingfish Sashimi ($30) showcased pomelo, shiso, wasabi and gochujang. The citrus of the pomelo complemented the clean flavour of the kingfish. A touch of wasabi and gochujang provided gentle heat to the dish.

Lobster Cevan Jjim 4.2/5

The Lobster Cevan Jjim ($72) is inspired by the Korean steamed seafood dish haemultang jjim. Succulent lobster and a savoury seafood broth are served over a silky steamed egg custard, and finished with chilli oil. My dining companion found this dish to be on the salty side, but I enjoyed it very much. That said, considering the price point, I felt the BBQ Short Rib offered better value for money and would be my pick between the two.

BBQ Short Rib 4.8/5

The BBQ Short Rib ($88) is a magnificent platter of melt-in-your-mouth tender beef slices, served with gochujang-tossed mushrooms, shishito peppers, onion purée and a pickled cucumber salad. This allowed the beef flavours to take centre stage while the acidity from the pickled cucumber and gochujang helped cut through the richness of the beef. Incredibly flavourful and delicious, this was the standout dish of the meal for me.

Steak Bibimbap 4/5

Rounding out the collaboration is the Steak Bibimbap ($58), Chef Sun’s take on one of Korea’s most iconic dishes. Featuring flank steak, Korean zucchini, Korean bean sprouts, black fungus and sesame oil, the dish is fragrant, hearty and comforting. While the flank steak was tender enough, I personally preferred the more buttery BBQ Short Rib to the leaner flank steak.

In fact, I found myself pairing some of the short rib with the bibimbap rice, which proved a satisfying combination, as the fat from the short rib mixed into the rice. All the more reason to order a few dishes and share among friends.

Yoghurt Ice Cream 2.8/5

For dessert, we were served a combination of Yoghurt Ice Cream with pomelo, mandarin and basil. The tangy yoghurt ice cream, together with pomelo and mandarin, provided a light and refreshing finish after a heavy meal. However, I found the addition of basil somewhat unappealing, and it did not work for me. Presentation-wise, the dessert also lacked visual appeal.

The High Table by Chef Sun Kim is available for lunch and dinner at HighHouse until 27 June, offering diners a rare opportunity to experience a more casual yet equally thoughtful expression of the celebrated chef’s modern Korean cuisine.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


HighHouse
1 Raffles Place
L61-62
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 9677 8074
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue: 1130am - 11pm
Wed-Fri: 1130 am - 1am
Sat: 5 pm - 1am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Numb Restaurant (川麻记) @ Marina One - New Seasonal “Wild Origins” Menu, A Refined Journey Through Southwest China

Nestled within the lush greenery and cascading waterfalls of Marina One, NUMB offers a dining experience that feels like a quiet escape from the city. With its latest seasonal menu, “Wild Origins”, the restaurant invites diners to reconnect with the raw, untamed flavours of Southwest China, drawing inspiration from the mountainous regions of Yunnan, Guizhou and Sichuan.

Yunnan Wild Mushroom Black Chicken Soup 4.5/5

A comforting and nourishing start to the meal, the Yunnan Wild Mushroom Black Chicken Soup ($24.80, for 2–3 pax) is inspired by the forest abundance of Yunnan. Slow-simmered black chicken is paired with prized wild mushrooms such as porcini, agaricus and cordyceps flowers, resulting in a deeply aromatic broth that feels both restorative and delicately layered.

Sichuan Spiced Grilled Beef with Lettuce Wraps 3.8/5

The Sichuan Spiced Grilled Beef with Lettuce Wraps ($30.80) features char-grilled beef seasoned with aromatic Sichuan spices, served with fresh lettuce for wrapping. While the beef itself is tender, it felt slightly underpowered on its own. The accompanying sauce and spice mix are essential to bring out the full flavour. Larger lettuce leaves would also improve the overall eating experience, making it easier to wrap and enjoy each bite.

Marbled Wagyu Beef in Traditional Guizhou Sour Soup 4/5

This dish offers a contrasting profile to the earlier soup. The Marbled Wagyu Beef in Traditional Guizhou Sour Soup ($42.80) features premium wagyu slices simmered in a fermented broth. The result is a refined balance of tangy acidity, mellow spice and umami richness, complemented by mushrooms and tender beef. It’s a comforting yet complex dish that showcases the depth of regional flavours well.

Signature Sizzling Fish Fillet with Tofu 4.5/5

A standout of the meal, the Signature Sizzling Fish Fillet with Tofu ($49.80) is filled with tender fish slices and tofu in a fragrant, spicy broth. The fish is incredibly soft and delicate, while the tofu absorbs the broth beautifully. The dish is rich in aroma and layered heat, though adding a contrasting texture, such as vegetables or vermicelli, would elevate it even further.

NUMB also introduces a range of seasonal beverages inspired by wild fruits and botanical notes. We tried three:

• Wampi & Hog Plum Jasmine Iced Tea
• Pink Guava & Green Grapes Jasmine Tea
• Green Plum & Starfruit with Yunnan Olive

Each drink was light, refreshing and well-balanced, offering a nice contrast to the bold, spice-forward dishes. Priced at only $5.80 each.

To celebrate the launch of “Wild Origins”, NUMB is offering a limited-time Membership Top-Up Promotion at its Marina One outlet, with perks such as dining discounts, bonus credits and waived corkage.

Overall, the menu delivers a thoughtful exploration of Southwest Chinese flavours, balancing boldness with refinement. It’s a great spot for gatherings, whether for casual meals or more intimate group dining, especially if you’re looking for something that goes beyond the usual Sichuan fare.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Numb Restaurant (川麻记)
Marina One West Tower
5 Straits View
#01-12
Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 9460 1960
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Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line), Marina Bay (CC, NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 230pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at the Downtown MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Straits View. Turn right onto Straits View. Walk down Straits View. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Marina Bay MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn left onto Commerce Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Seorae Jib @ Plaza Singapura - Unveils Singapore’s First 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal

Known for its expertly hay-smoked meats, Seorae Jib introduces a novel way to savour Korean barbecue with its 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal, also known as the “Flower Pork Belly”. I visited the Plaza Singapura outlet to experience this meticulous preparation that elevates the humble pork belly into something quite extraordinary.

The highlight here is undoubtedly the premium Canadian air-flown pork belly, painstakingly scored with over 100 precise knife cuts. During our visit, the chef presented the slab and demonstrated the intricate cutting technique, which transforms the meat into a mesh-like structure. This not only tenderises the pork but also allows heat to penetrate more evenly during grilling.

As the pork hits the grill, the cuts open up and curl slightly, forming a “flower” shape. The result is a beautifully caramelised exterior with crisp edges, while the interior remains juicy and succulent. Enjoying a piece on its own allows the natural sweetness of the pork fat to shine, complemented by a delicate smokiness from the grill. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying bite that showcases the quality of the meat and the precision behind its preparation.

We tried the 100 Knife Cuts Kkot BBQ Set 700g ($118, with 20% off from 1 May to 30 June 2026), which offers excellent value and variety. Alongside the signature pork belly, the set includes:

● 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeobsal
● 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Nuruk Moksal
● Galmaegisal (Original)
● Woosamgyeob
● Choice of Japchae, Mul Naengmyeon, or Bibim Naengmyeon
● Cheesy Gyeran Jjim
● Optional Jjigae (Kimchi, Sundubu or Doenjang) at $10

Subak Mocktail

In celebration of Parents’ Day from 1 May to 30 June 2026, diners can enjoy a complimentary Subak (watermelon) Mocktail (U.P. $17.90) in May when dining with mum and ordering the BBQ set. Simply snap a photo of feeding your mum, tag the restaurant on social media, and present it in-store for redemption. June continues the festivities with Father’s Day specials.

Japchae, Cheesy Gyeran Jjim

For our carb option, we went with the Japchae, featuring springy glass noodles tossed in a lightly sweet soy-based sauce with vegetables. It’s well-balanced and comforting, providing a pleasant contrast to the richness of the grilled meats.

The Cheesy Gyeran Jjim arrives piping hot and fluffy, almost soufflé-like, with a layer of melted cheese adding extra savouriness. It’s soft, airy and incredibly moreish — perfect for rounding out the meal.

To elevate the experience, Seorae Jib offers 10 different ways to enjoy the Kkot Samgyeopsal. From dipping it into house-made meljeot (anchovy sauce), wrapping it in lettuce with pungent leek salad, pairing it with marinated squid and seaweed, or even combining it with grilled tortilla and melted cheese — each variation brings out a different dimension of flavour and texture.

The Kkot Nuruk Moksal (pork collar) carries a slightly firmer bite with a deeper, savoury profile, while the Galmaegisal (pork skirt) is prized for its tenderness and rich flavour. The Woosamgyeob, thinly sliced beef belly, cooks quickly and delivers a luscious, melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Seorae Jib’s 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal is more than just a gimmick — it’s a thoughtfully executed technique that genuinely enhances the texture and flavour of the pork. The interplay of crispy edges and a juicy interior, combined with multiple ways to enjoy it, makes for a dynamic and engaging Korean BBQ experience. With its value-for-money set and limited-time promotions, this is one experience that Korean barbecue enthusiasts would not want to miss.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


SEORAE JIB
Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road
#02-01
SIngapore 238839
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS, Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit D, E or F. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]