Chopsuey Cafe @ Dempsey - Usher in Prosperity with an Exclusive Festive Menu

Chopsuey Cafe at Dempsey will present an exclusive Lunar New Year menu from 20 January to 12 February. The menu offers a fusion of contemporary flavours across an array of à la carte and vegetarian dishes alongside a thoughtfully curated set menu.

Lucky Lunar ‘Lo Hei’

Chopsuey Cafe’s signature Lucky Lunar ‘Lo Hei’ ($68/$88/$128), a vibrant mix of baby romaine, white radish, beetroot, carrot julienne, blueberries, pomegranate, pomelo, chunky cured salmon, toasted peanut crust, white sesame, and crispy wonton skin. The coarser toasted peanut crust added a delightful crunch, while extra virgin olive oil introduced a subtle herbaceous note that elevated this refreshing and textured dish.

Prawn Toasties 4.8/5

Among the starters, the Prawn Toasties ($19) stood out with their juicy king prawn paste. They offered chunky bites encased in an airy, perfectly crisp fried bun. Paired with a chili-dipping gravy, it was a harmonious and satisfying bite.

Crispy Shredded Duck Pancakes 4.5/5

The Crispy Shredded Duck Pancakes ($32) provided a creative twist on the classic Peking Duck. The shredded duck was tender and succulent, complemented by crispy bits and served with soft, chewy wraps that tied the elements together beautifully.

Hot & Sour Soup 2/5

The vegetarian menu offers a Hot & Sour Soup ($14) loaded with tofu, mushrooms, vegetables, vinegar, and a dash of chilli oil for a spicy kick. It was vinegary enough but left an aftertaste that didn't quite work for me.

Crispy Orange Kurobuta Pork 2.5/5

Taiwanese-Style Three Cup Beef Tenderloin 3/5

The menu offers a wide selection of mains. The Crispy Orange Kurobuta Pork ($32), an elevated take on sweet and sour pork, delivered succulent pork morsels, but the overly thick and sweet sauce was overwhelming. The Taiwanese-Style Three Cup Beef Tenderloin offered a slightly more balanced flavour, though it leaned towards sweetness as well.

Steamed Whole Fish 3/5

The Steamed Whole Fish ($112) featured the Catch of the Day, classic with crispy ginger, julienned scallions, and premium soy sauce.

Steamed Free-Range Chicken with Herbs & Hua Tiao Wine 4/5

The Steamed Free-Range Chicken with Herbs & Hua Tiao Wine ($36) was simple but delivered light and comforting flavours with aromatic herbs and the depth of premium Hua Tiao wine. This homely dish, reminiscent of chicken soup, was particularly memorable.

Wok Breath Fried Hor Fun 3/5

Lobster Fried Rice 3/5

Classic dishes like the Wok Breath Fried Hor Fun with Fish ($26) impressed me with a decent amount of wok hei, though the fish slices were rather bland. The Lobster Fried Rice ($42) featured chunks of lobster and boasted distinct grains and flavorful notes from cai po and garlic, but the unexpected sweetness overshadowed its savoury profile.

Stir-Fried Crunchy Leafy Greens 4.5/5

Stir-Fried Crunchy Leafy Greens ($16) featured a mix of Chinese kale and mini chard that were just given a quick sauté with fried garlic cloves, white pepper, and rice wine, preserving the freshness of the greens.

Golden Pineapple Tart 3.5/5

The Lunar New Year-themed menu features a special cocktail and a dessert — the Golden Prosperity Punch ($20) and Golden Pineapple Tart ($18).

The Joyous Reunion Set Menu ($138++ per pax) is designed for groups with a minimum of four pax, includes three delectable starters, a comforting soup dish, and three seasonal main dishes, all served with a side of vegetables and your choice of rice or noodles. A specially curated vegetarian menu is also available.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Chopsuey Cafe
10 Dempsey Road
#01-23
Singapore 247700
Tel: +65 6708 9288
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Take the stairs up to Dempsey Road. Walk up to Dempsey Hill. Walk right to the back of the cluster. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Cafe Oriental @ Amara Singapore - Celebrates The Rich Culinary Heritage of Singapore With “Local Legends”

Amara Singapore celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Singapore with its new "Local Legends" series, which will launch in January 2025 at Café Oriental. This initiative features collaborations with celebrated chefs and iconic dining institutions, with each installment highlighting unique culinary traditions through a showcase of their heritage recipes and signature flavours.

The series debuts with home chef Christina Hunter of Hunter's Kitchen (@hunterskitchensg). Originally from Ketapang in West Borneo, Christina is known for her authentic Indonesian cuisine, which is often imbued with subtle influences from her Teochew-Peranakan heritage. Her private dinners and curated menus consistently sell out.

Sambals and Kerupuk

Sambal Mangga

The semi-buffet spread showcases a selection of Christina's homemade sambals and kerupuk (chilli pastes and crackers). The sambals were particularly captivating with their bold and punchy flavours. The Sambal Mangga, crafted from young mango, stood out with its tangy profile, while the lesser-seen Sambal Terong, made with eggplant, delivered a robust and spicy kick. In fact, they were all addictive.

Lontong 5/5

Hunter's signature Lontong elevated this humble dish to a new level. My bowl was topped with tender Opor Chicken, Sambal Goreng Beef Petai, and Balado Quail Eggs. The homemade compressed rice cakes were perfectly textured — firm yet tender — and paired harmoniously with the well-braised vegetables in a light coconut milk gravy, creating a comforting and flavourful combination.

Asam Garam Sotong 4/5

For the main course, diners had two set options. Set One offered a choice between Suak Chui Koi (chilli chicken) and Asam Garam Sotong (squid cooked with tamarind), while Set Two featured Rawon Beef, a Javanese-style beef stew infused with keluak nut. I opted for the Asam Garam Sotong, which was perfectly cooked and coated in a punchy gravy. The dish was accompanied by Nasi Liwet, aromatic rice cooked in coconut milk and spices, along with Sayur Lodeh Tauco, Balinese omelette, Tempe Orek Ikan Bilis, and Bakwan Jagung. The rice was particularly noteworthy, adding an irresistible, aromatic richness to the plate. The crunchy bits of the Tempe Orek Ikan Bilis were a tad saltish, but they added another layer of aroma and flavour to each bite.

Pisang Goreng 4/5

Es Teler 2.5/5

The desserts featured were Pisang Goreng and Es Teler. The Pisang Goreng offered the satisfying contrast of sweet, creamy banana encased in hot, crispy batter. However, the Es Teler — a chilled dessert of mixed fruits and coconut — was slightly lacklustre.

The next installation of Local Legends will feature a collaboration with acclaimed Chef Damian D'Silva of Rempapa in March 2025, highlighting Singapore Heritage cuisine. More exciting collaborations will be unveiled throughout 2025.

Reservations for Local Legends - Cafe Oriental x Hunter’s Kitchen can be made at https://reserve.oddle.me/en_SG/amarasingapore/ticket/5744. For two days only on 16 and 17 January 2025, Christina will tantalise diners with a semi-buffet dinner, priced at S$108++ per person, limited to 50 reservations per day.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Cafe Oriental
Amara Singapore
165 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088539
Tek: +65 68792626
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 830pm
Sun: 11am - 6pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Peck Seah Street towards Gopeng Street. Turn right onto Gopeng Street and walk down Gopeng Street. Turn left onto Tras Street and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Carlitos @ Joo Chiat Road - New Authentic Neighbourhood Tapas Bar

Joo Chiat has welcomed a taste of Spain with Carlitos, a neighbourhood tapas bar helmed by Chef Carlos Montobbio. The restaurant offers over 30 types of tapas inspired by Chef Carlos' personal food memories across Spanish cities. From timeless classics to innovative creations, Carlitos captures the essence of Spanish gastronomy in a vibrant, relaxed setting.

Gilda Pintxo 4/5

We began our dinner with the Gilda Pintxo ($10), a skewer of smoked sardines paired with pickles and green olives. For those who might shy away from the bold flavour of sardines, the pickles and olives cleverly balance the dish, adding a tangy brightness that complements the smokiness.

Pulpo La Coruna (Spanish Octopus) 4.5/5

The Pulpo La Coruna ($20) was a crowd-pleaser. Tender Spanish octopus, perfectly cooked, is enhanced by a sprinkle of paprika, adding a mildly sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy touch that elevates the dish.

Tortilla Donostia Slice 4.8/5

One of the standouts was the Tortilla Donostia Slice ($10). This Spanish omelette, made with organic eggs, confit shallots, and potatoes, is enhanced with extra virgin olive oil. The highlight? The runny egg centre adds a delightful texture contrast to the dish.

Patatas Bravas Bonanova 4.5/5

The Patatas Bravas Bonanova ($10) is a classic with a twist featuring deep-fried agria potatoes topped with garlic aioli, spicy tomato sauce, and chilli oil. The crispy potatoes pair beautifully with the bold and flavourful sauces, making this a must-order for potato lovers.

Txipirones Bilbao 4.5/5

The Txipirones Bilbao ($20) showcases squid in two forms — grilled and deep-fried — served alongside squid rice in a robust, flavourful broth. The combination of textures and the deep umami flavours of the squid makes this dish a standout for seafood enthusiasts.

Alcachofa Brasa 4/5

The Alcachofa Brasa ($18), grilled artichokes, is charred over fire to bring out its natural earthy and nutty flavours. The smokiness from the grilling enhances the dish, making it a delightful, rustic option.

Macarrones del Cardenal 4.5/5

The Macarrones del Cardenal ($16) is a hearty pasta dish from Barcelona. Homemade penne pasta is coated in secreto ibérico sofrito and Manchego cream, resulting in a comforting, indulgent bite filled with bold Spanish flavours.

Bunuelos de Pamplona 4.2/5

The Bunuelos de Pamplona ($14) are codfish fritters paired with ajoarriero sofrito and saffron oil. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, the fritters pack the delicate savoriness of codfish, with the saffron oil adding a touch of luxury.

Sobrassada 4.2/5

Bikini 4.2/5

Carlitos also offers Molletes - toasted flatbread sandwiches. The Sobrassada ($10) features pork sausages, burrata, and honey, creating a sweet and savoury medley. The Bikini ($12) is a decadent combination of Iberico ham, brie cheese, and truffle duxelle — a favourite for those seeking rich flavours.

Arroz Caldoso de Gambas 4.5/5

A comforting pot of Spanish stew, the Arroz Caldoso de Gambas ($28) features Mediterranean red prawns poached with vongole veraci clams in a broth enriched with rice. The dish is hearty, flavourful, and perfect for sharing.

Fricando Barcelona 4.5/5

The Fricandó Barcelona ($30) is a rich, thick ragu made with Black Angus beef and fragranced with porcini mushrooms. Paired with maitake rice, it’s a comforting, earthy dish for meat lovers.

Flan y Cafe 4/5

Dessert began with the Flan y Café ($12), a silky Spanish caramel pudding served with Corlado coffee. The creamy flan and aromatic coffee create a delightful end to the meal.

Tarta de Queso 4.5/5

Lastly, we had the Tarta de Queso ($12), a Basque burnt cheesecake tart paired with sangria sorbet. This was the dessert that kept Chef Carlos's restaurant afloat during COVID, and it's easy to see why. The fruity tang of the sorbet perfectly balances the rich, creamy cheesecake.

Carlitos is a welcome addition to Joo Chiat, offering authentic Spanish flavours in a cosy, unpretentious setting. From tapas to stews and desserts, the menu reflects Chef Carlos' culinary journey and love for Spanish cuisine. Whether you're a fan of classic tapas or looking for something unique, Carlitos delivers an authentic slice of Spain right in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Carlitos
350 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427598
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Thu: 530pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sun: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon and Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 16. Alight 4 stops later. Cross the road, turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

CÉ LA VI Singapore @ Marina Bay Sands - Unveiled New Menu With Modern Asian Flavours

CÉ LA VI Singapore at Marina Bay Sands unveiled a new menu that Executive Chef Joshua Bedell and his team crafted. With over two decades of culinary experience in Asian cuisine across New York, Hong Kong, and Melbourne, the new menu carries both Chef Bedell's creative touch and his team's interpretations of modern Asian cuisine.

Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Carpaccio 4.5/5

Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Carpaccio ($52) made a luxurious starter for appetisers. The thinly sliced wagyu beef had a mouthfeeling texture further boasted by creamy smoked aioli. Pickled cucumber cubes and ponzu sauce cut the richness, while caviar and shimeiji mushrooms enhanced the umami depth of the dish.

Grilled Octopus 4.5/5

The Grilled Octopus ($38), inspired by Chef Bedell's Melbourne experience, stood out with a perfectly done octopus, which enticed with a smoky flavour complemented by a vibrant yellow pepper soy sauce with a gentle kick of heat, mellowed by crisp green apple shavings.

Halibut 4.5/5

For mains, the Halibut ($38) interests with its Eastern spice crust, paired with tamarind jus and a mushroom ragout. The rich mushroom ragout was a star on its own. Its earthiness harmonised with the tanginess of the jus, creating a delicious pairing to the halibut.

A4 Miyazaki Striploin 4.5/5

The A4 Miyazaki Striploin ($130) was one of the better ones I had in a while. The beef was done on point, accompanied by grilled king oyster mushrooms, char-grilled leek, and a golden potato terrine. Tying the elements together was a rich kombu demi-glace, which brought out the flavour profile of the beef.

Roasted Cauliflower 2.8/5

The Roasted Cauliflower ($28), a signature from CÉ LA VI Dubai, was presented on a bed of creamy cauliflower purée. Almond and golden raisin crumbles provided texture and a burst of fruity sweetness, though the cauliflower could benefit from being slightly more tender.

Dulce Miso Toffee 3.5/5

For desserts, the shape of the Dulce Miso Toffee reimagines the nostalgic ice gem biscuit, encasing a sticky toffee pudding within a chocolate mousse. While flavorful, it lacked the iconic sticky pudding texture I desired.

Tropical Mango 4/5

The Tropical Mango ($18) is a delightful tribute to Thai mango sticky rice. Fresh Thai mango cubes mixed with Japanese rice cooked in coconut cream adorned with a crispy rice tuile. The tangy mango cubes balanced the sweet and creamy rice pudding. It was a much lighter option compared to the traditional version, yet equally satisfying.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


CÉ LA VI Singapore
Marina Bay Sands
Hotel Tower 3
1 Bayfront Avenue
Singapore 018971
Tel: +65 6508 2188
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Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue: 12pm - 1am
Wed: 12pm - 4am
Thur, Sun: 12pm - 3pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 4am

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit C or B. Walk to Marina Bay Sands Hotel. Walk to North Tower and take lift to SkyPark. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]