Chamoon Hot Pot (享月汤皇) @ Scotts Square - Up to 40% Off For The New Truffle Omakase Experience

Chamoon Hot Pot, China's top clear soup hotpot brand, has launched a new 12-course Truffle Omakase Menu in Singapore. Dubbed the "Hermès Set Menu of the Hot Pot World," this luxurious offering is available at just $99.80++ per person (minimum 2 diners), with up to 40% off in its launch weeks starting from 16 May 2025. We were invited to try this decadent hotpot experience.

The dipping sauce is served directly to your table, setting the tone for a seamless and personalised experience.

Appetiser Duo Platter 3.8/5

Our meal began with the Appetiser Duo Platter: Braised Firm Tofu (tau kwa) and Braised Pork. While the tofu was a tad dry, both were flavourful and well-seasoned, offering a hearty start to the omakase journey.

Salmon Sashimi 4/5

Another appetiser in the set is the thickly sliced and refreshingly chilled Salmon Sashimi. It stood out with its clean flavours and creamy texture. It paired beautifully with the classic soy sauce and wasabi combination. It is simple but satisfying.

The real star here is the soup. We tried both the Signature Matsutake and the Morel Mushroom broths. The Matsutake soup delivered a bolder, more umami-rich profile, with a depth that speaks of health and tradition. The broth is so comforting and layered that we recommend enjoying a few sips before adding the other ingredients — let the base shine first.

Signature Matsutake Fried Rice 4/5

The Matsutake Fried Rice was piping hot in a claypot. This mushroom-forward fried rice was delightfully fragrant and packed with umami. Though it lacked the coveted "crispy bottom" that claypot is known for, the flavour more than made up for it. We found ourselves craving more - it's that addictive.

"Hermès" Beef & Prawn Paste 4/5

The beautifully plated "Hermès" Beef & Prawn Paste platter lives up to its name with handcrafted paste made with tiger prawn, wagyu beef, matsutake mushrooms, and dragonfruit. It was delicately seasoned to highlight the seafood's natural sweetness and the beef's richness. The platter is smooth, bouncy, and luxurious with every bite.

Australian M9 Wagyu 4/5

Melt-in-your-mouth slices of top-grade Australian M9 Wagyu were a delight. Rich marbling gave each bite a buttery texture, and the beef cooked quickly in the hot broth while maintaining tenderness and depth.

Tiger Prawns and Kanto Sea Cucumber 4/5

The Tiger Prawns were plump, fresh and sweet. Bonus points for the servers offering to peel them for us. The Kanto Sea Cucumber from Hokkaido, known for its smooth and slightly chewy texture, added a unique and luxurious bite to the meal.

Yunnan Wild Mushroom & Vegetable Platter 3.8/5

This colourful Mushroom & Vegetable Platter featured a range of mushrooms and seasonal vegetables flown in from Yunnan. It balanced the meal with earthy, wholesome notes and paired well with the robust mushroom broth.

Daliangshan Buckwheat Tea 3.5/5

The meal is complemented by a pot of Daliangshan Buckwheat Tea, a caffeine-free brew with a toasted, nutty aroma reminiscent of roasted corn tea. It's an acquired taste, but one that works well to cleanse the palate. Each set also includes fruits and dessert of the day.

Chamoon's Truffle Omakase is a luxurious hotpot affair that redefines the dining experience, focusing on premium ingredients and nourishing, broth-forward indulgence. From the earthy richness of truffle-infused matsutake soup to the handcrafted "Hermès" prawn paste and melt-in-your-mouth Australian M9 wagyu, every course is thoughtfully curated to delight the senses while supporting wellness.

To celebrate its launch, enjoy up to 40% off this indulgent 12-course set:

• 40% off from 16–22 May
• 30% off from 23–29 May
• 20% off from 30 May–5 June

For those seeking a more intimate gathering, Chamoon also offers private rooms that seat up to 12 guests, with a minimum spend of $1,200 - perfect for special occasions or hosting a premium hotpot party in style.

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


Chamoon Hot Pot 享月汤皇
Scotts Square
#03-01/02
6 Scotts Road
Singapore 228209
Tel: +65 6258 5232
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to Scotts Road. Turn right onto Scotts Road. Walk down Scotts Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Kinki Restaurant + Bar @ Customs House - Celebrating 15 Years with a Throwback Menu

Kinki Restaurant + Bar marks 15 radical years in Singapore’s dining scene with its bold identity and innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. Known for reimagining Japanese comfort food into addictive new classics, Kinki continues to push boundaries while staying rooted in tradition.

This March, the restaurant brought back five of its well-loved creations as throwback à la carte dishes, offering diners a nostalgic yet exciting experience. I had the opportunity to sample three of these throwback dishes — Unagi Scallop Maki, Prawn & Spicy Tuna Maki, and Kinki Okonomiyaki—along with a few other menu highlights.

Unagi Scallop Maki 3.5/5

The Unagi Scallop Maki ($33) is a deep-fried maki roll featuring succulent unagi and scallops, complemented by house-made unagi sauce. Unlike traditional maki, this version has a tempura coating, giving it an additional crisp exterior. While the textures were enjoyable, the flavours could have been more pronounced to elevate the dish further.

Prawn & Spicy Tuna Maki 3.5/5

The Prawn & Spicy Tuna Maki ($28) offers a twist on the traditional spicy tuna roll by incorporating tempura prawn for a satisfying crunch. The spicy tuna mayo mixture adds a creamy element, but I wished for a more robust kick in the spice level to enhance the overall experience.

Kinki Okonomiyaki 3/5

Another throwback dish, the Kinki Okonomiyaki ($32), features classic okonomiyaki ingredients such as shredded cabbage, seafood, and streaky bacon. The dish is topped with bonito flakes and shredded nori but is served atop toasted bread, giving it a pizza-like presentation. Personally, I was not a fan of the bread base, which felt like a cost-cutting measure. I would have preferred a more traditional okonomiyaki with an abundance of shredded cabbage holding everything together.

Spicy Buffalo Katsu 1/5

We regretted ordering the Spicy Buffalo Katsu ($32). The katsu itself was very dry, and the spicy buffalo sauce was overwhelmingly spicy, making it difficult to appreciate the pork. Unfortunately, we were unable to finish this dish.

Buta Kakuni Claypot 4/5

Our favourite dish of the night was the Buta Kakuni Claypot ($35). This slow-cooked braised pork belly rice is served in a claypot with a perfectly poached egg. The pork belly was well-infused with the rich braised sauce, resulting in a melt-in-the-mouth texture. Every bite was packed with umami, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.

Matcha Lava Cake 2.5/5

To end the meal, we tried the Matcha Lava Cake ($15). While the matcha flavour was rich and distinct, the cake itself was denser than expected. Additionally, the pairing of matcha with goma (black sesame) ice cream felt mismatched, leaving us unconvinced by the flavour combination.

Kinki Restaurant + Bar continues to impress with its creative approach to Japanese cuisine, but this throwback menu had its highs and lows. While the Buta Kakuni Claypot stood out as a must-try, some dishes, like the Spicy Buffalo Katsu, missed the mark. Nonetheless, Kinki remains a vibrant spot for those looking to enjoy a fun and unconventional take on Japanese classics in a stylish setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kinki Restaurant + Bar
Customs House
70 Collyer Quay
#02-02
Singapore 049323
Tel: +65 83636697
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Go to 2nd floor, take the overhead bridge link across the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Monki (台灣小吃部) @ The Star Vista - Homely And Comforting Taiwan Cuisine

Monki (台灣小吃部) is a Taiwanese restaurant that has moved into Star Vista, located just beside the taxi stand. I remembered visiting the cafe previously at Holland Drive, but I was only there for desserts. I will try out some of their snacks and mains this time.

Taiwan Century Egg Tofu 3.8/5

We started with the chilled Taiwan Century Egg Tofu ($8), generously topped with pork floss and bonito flakes. While it is an appetising starter, I felt the century egg lacked that pungent I was looking for.

Double Mix Mee Sua 4.2/5

There are a few combinations for the Mee Sua, and I went for the Double Mix Mee Sua ($11), picking the big intestine and oyster. The big intestine was not gamey. I recommend adding more vinegar and a dash of chilli to elevate the taste profile to enjoy the thick, smooth, and slurping goodness.

Taiwan Braised Pork Rice 4.2/5

The Taiwan Braised Pork Rice ($9) comes with fragrant and fluffy rice topped with fatty braised pork. I like that it is very saucy, allowing the rice to soak up the delicious sauce for a delightful mouthfeel. It even comes with a braised egg and tau pok.

Taiwan Fried Chicken Cutlet 4/5

We also ordered the Taiwan Fried Chicken Cutlet ($8) to complete our meal. It is incredibly huge, tender and juicy with a crispy coat.

The dishes here felt homely and comforting. Maybe I have been missing Taiwan since the closure of the border due COVIID.


Monki (台灣小吃部)
The Star Vista
1 Vista Exchange Green
#01-41
Singapore 138617
Tel: +65 62588112
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1030am - 9pm
Fri: 1030am - 930am
Sat: 9am - 930pm
Sun: 1030am - 830pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit A or C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.[Map]

Nonbei Izakaya @ Southbridge Road (Chinatown) - New Izakaya Restaurant Inspired By Tokyo's Nonbei Yokocho

Nonbei Izakaya at South Bridge Road, located beside the famous Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, is a new izakaya restaurant inspired by Tokyo's Nonbei Yokocho.

Ohitashi 3.5/5

We had the Ohitashi ($6) to kickstart our dinner. The vegetables marinated with dashi are crowned with a pile of bonito flakes.

Tamago Yaki 4/5

Both young and old will enjoy the Tamago Yaki ($10). The Japanese omelette is sweet, soft and fluffy.

Sashimi 5 Kinds 4.5/5

We were astonished at how reasonably priced the Sashimi 5 Kinds ($38) were. For only thirty-eight dollars, you get five thickly cut varieties. It is a steal. You can also top up $18 for Hon Toro.

Buri Kama Shio Yaki 4.2/5

Grilled to perfection is the Buri Kama Shio Yaki ($18). The grilled yellowtail collar has a thin crispy skin on the exterior, while the moist fish meat comes with a hint of smokiness.

Kushi Yaki 3.8/5

Since this is an izakaya place, we need to order some kushiyaki to accompany our drinks. So we ordered a couple of yakitori from the menu, such as the Tebasaki (Japanese Chicken Wings), Yakitori (Chicken Skewers), Tori Kawa (Chicken Skin Skewers), Asparagus Bacon (Asparagus wrapped with Bacon), Mukago (Japanese Yam), Ko Tamanegi (Charred Onion). Each skewer ranges from $1.50 to $3. My favourite is the tebasaki and yakitori.

Buta Kakuni 3/5

For the cooked item, we tried the Buta Kakuni, which has been cooked to tender and infused with fragrant soy sauce. Interestingly, some dining companions commented that it tasted like a particular can tinned braised pork brand, in a delicious homely familiarity.

Ebi Tempura 4/5

Comes with a light and thin crispy coat is the Ebi Tempura ($15) that will delight everyone with its sweetness and crunch.

Chashu Ramen 3.5/5

If you are still hungry after all the drinks and bites, the Chashu Ramen ($12) is something more substantial to fill your tummy. The chashu reminds us of the buta kakuni, which probably is the weak link of the bowl of slurping goodness.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nonbei Izakaya
282 South Bridge Road
Singapore 058831
Tel: +65 81128028
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street. Turn right onto Trengganu Street. Walk to the end of Trengganu Street and turn left onto Sago Street. Walk to the end of Sago Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to destination. Journey time about 2 minutes. [Map]

Nosignboard Sheng Jian @ Northpoint City - New Flagship Shanghai Sheng Jian Bao Specialty Shop By No Signboard Group

No Signboard, known as the original creators of Singapore's White Pepper Crab with over 40 years of heritage, has launched the group's latest casual dining concept - Nosignboard Sheng Jian at Northpoint City. It specialises in the popular Shanghai Sheng Jiao Bao and a whole lineup of Northern Chinese dim sum and dishes.

Tricolour Sheng Jian Bao 4.2/5

The highlight definitely has to be the Sheng Jian Bao here which boosts a delightfully chewy texture. There are four flavours here. They are the Signature Popping Juices ($5.50 for 3pc), Chilli Crab and Pork ($6.30 for 3pc), Spicy Dried Shrimp ($5.80 for 3pc) and Vegan Sheng Jian Bao ($5.30 for 3pc). Are you spoilt of choices? Then go for the Tricolour Sheng Jian Bao ($10.80 for 6pc) to get a taste of a variety of the Sheng Jian Bao. My favourite has to be the signature popping juices pan-fried bun for its savoury and juicy pork filling.

Spicy Chicken in Sichuan Style 3.5/5

Besides the Sheng Jian Bao, the restaurant also offers a selection of other tasty dishes, rice and noodles. We had the Spicy Chicken in Sichuan Style ($7.80) served chilled. It comes in fiery-looking Sichuan Mala spicy sauce prepared in a blend of Sichuan peppercorns, spices and chillies. I find the sauce lacks the aroma of a good Kou Shui Ji, though.

Famous Wu Xi Braised Pork Cube 4/5

The Famous Wu Xi Braised Pork Cube ($14.80) fares much better. The braised pork belly cubes are fork-tender and coated in a deliciously thick, luscious red sauce with sweet vinegar.

Fried Noodle with Scallion & Dried Shrimps 3.8/5

The Fried Noodle with Scallion & Dried Shrimps ($6.80) looks plain without any accompanying ingredients. Still, it is packed with exquisite flavours from scallion oil and dried shrimps.

Crispy Rice with Chill Crab Meat Sauce 3.8/5

Crispy rice is well enjoyed in Northern China, traditionally eaten on its own or with a rich dip or gravy. At Nosignboard Sheng Jian, the Crispy Rice with Chill Crab Meat Sauce ($14.80) is given a local touch by pairing the Chinese rice crisps with Singapore chilli crab dip.

Deep Fried Radish Pastry 4.2/5

Besides the sheng jian bao, the other item on the menu that I enjoyed a lot is the traditional Shanghainese pastry - Deep Fried Radish Pastry ($5.80 for 3pc). Inside the light and buttery, flaky pastry is a savoury filling of flavourful white radish.

Chilled Coconut Papaya Pudding 3.5/5

The Chilled Coconut Papaya Pudding ($4.80 for 3pc) stands like the Marina Bay Sands towers. I enjoyed this simple dessert because it has two of my favourite fruits: coconut and papaya.

Crispy Purple Sweet Potato Balls 4.2/5

A delightful dessert is the Crispy Purple Sweet Potato Balls ($4.80 for 3pc) served warm. Inside the crispy sphere's skin is soft custard filling to end the meal on a sweet note.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nosignboard Sheng Jian
Northpoint City
South Wing
#01-137/138
1 Northpoint Drive
Singapore 768019
Tel: +65 66659959
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Yishun (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 930pm

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

Birds Of A Feather @ Amoy Street - Spreading The Wings Of Creativity

Birds of A Feather at Amoy Street has soared to a greater height with a repertoire of new mainstays. I have been a fan of Executive Chef Eugene See's interpretation of Sichuan cuisine, combining Sichuan and western flavours. The new menu once again offers surprises, giving classic Sichuan offerings a unique twist.

Birds Avocado & Crab Bruschetta 4.2/5

We have a couple of appetisers to kick start the dinner. The Birds Avocado & Crab Bruschetta ($18) comes in a chunky and creamy crab-avocado combination, sitting on a slab of buttery brioche. The addition of vine pepper in the crab-avocado combination gives it a pleasant yet surprise kick to the whole enjoyment.

House Cured Duck Breast Bruschetta 4.2/5

Another bruschetta on the menu is the House Cured Duck Breast Bruschetta ($21). The dish pays tribute to Sichuan aged meat, using the French moulard duck. The tender duck breast is marinated with Sichuan seasoning and aged for around 20 days. I appreciate the touch of fruity sweetness from the fig and blackberry marmalade, elevating the enjoyment.

Double Cooked Pork Belly 4/5

Double Cooked Pork Belly ($22), a quintessential Sichuan dish, is given a new twist with char-grilled octopus leg for an additional soft, chewy texture bite. Underneath is a bed of fregula, providing a multi-textural enjoyment.

BBQ French Quail 4.5/5

I applauded the execution of the BBQ French Quail ($23), incorporating the barbecue technique commonly found on the streets of Chengdu to the French ingredient. The bird is brushed with chilli oil throughout the grilling process and dusted with a blend of Sichuan spices. Slightly crisp on the exterior, smokey, tender, coupled with the aromatic Sichuan flavours, the chef has brought a new appreciation of the ingredient to the table.

Whole Wild Caught John Dory (800g - 1kg) 4/5

Great for sharing is the Whole Wild Caught John Dory ($120 for 800g - 1kg). Pre-order is recommended. The wild-caught fish is grilled in a charcoal oven, layered with burnt chillies. To enjoy the fish's firm and flaky flesh, the waitstaff will pour the classic French beurre blanc with wine pepper over the grilled fish for an aromatic finishing oomph.

Two Way Braised Tofu (Mapo Style, Wagyu Sliced Beef) 4.2/5

The Two Way Braised Tofu ($25) served with sliced A4 wagyu is reminiscent of the classic Sichuan Mapo Tofu dish. However, unlike the traditional dish, it has both silky tofu and marinated fried tofu. The soul must be the chilli red oil and broad bean chilli paste, bringing the ingredients together. While the wagyu slices give the dish another dimension, soaking up the moreish sauce, I do not see the need for it.

Sichuan Maine Lobster 4/5

Instead of boiled fish or pork, Birds of A Feather up the game with the Sichuan Maine Lobster ($42). When the dish arrives on the table, the waitstaff will pour hot oil over the dish, sizzling the spices to bring out the aromas. 

Homestyle Braised Pork Belly 4.5/5

A crowd favourite is the Homestyle Braised Pork Belly ($58), brimming with tea tree mushroom, mushroom garlic rice, unctuous pork belly and shaved truffle. What brightens the enjoyment is the Sichuan chilli bean paste, fermented black beans, salt and soy sauce, elevating the flavour profile of the rice dish. 

Glutinous Rice Cake Rock 4.2/5

The Glutinous Rice Cake Rock ($15) is a warm dessert comprising soft and sticky glutinous rice laboriously pounded by hand and steamed. The texture is almost like mochi coated with red sugar caramel, served with sesame parfait.

Having dined at Birds of A Feather numerous times, I enjoyed the new menu. Compared to its previous menu, I felt the flavours are bolder in the new menu. 

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Birds of A Feather
115 Amoy Street
Singapore 069935
Tel: +65 62217449
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street towards Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2)  Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Follow the covered walkway to the junction of Mccallum Street, Telok Ayer and Amoy Street. Turn left at the junction onto Amoy Street. Continue on Amoy Street to the end of the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]