Jiak Kim House @ Jiak Kim Street (Kim Seng Road) - Reimagines Asian Heritage Through a New Modern Communal Menu

Jiak Kim House unveils a new communal menu celebrating the diverse cultures, races, and culinary traditions that have shaped Asia’s rich food heritage. Led by Chef-Partner Seow Tzi Qin, the menu draws on Indian, Peranakan, Hakka, Teochew, Hainanese, and other Asian traditions, reinterpreting familiar flavours and techniques through a contemporary lens.

Rather than simply recreating nostalgic classics, Chef TQ looks into the stories and memories behind these dishes, transforming them into modern creations that are both familiar and unexpected. The result is a menu that takes diners on a journey through Asia, with playful interpretations, refined techniques and plenty of nostalgic references.

Croissant Lapis 4.2/5

Our meal begins with a complimentary Croissant Lapis, a seasonal bread course inspired by the intricate layers of traditional kueh lapis. Here, the layered structure is recreated with delicate French croissant lamination, giving it a wonderfully crisp, buttery texture while retaining the visual appeal of traditional kueh. What makes it even more interesting is the accompanying aromatic curry mash, inspired by the comforting combination of prata and curry. The buttery croissant works surprisingly well with the fragrant, mildly spiced curry, reflecting Chef TQ’s love for Indian cuisine and setting the tone for the cultural crossovers to come.

Jasmine Paloma 4.2/5

For something refreshing, the Jasmine Paloma ($22) is a light, fragrant mocktail made with jasmine tea cordial, cucumber, grapefruit, and lime. The floral notes of jasmine are balanced by the citrusy brightness of grapefruit and lime, while cucumber adds a clean, cooling finish. It makes for an easy-drinking accompaniment throughout the meal.

Chilli Crab Tacos 4.5/5

We started with a selection of small bites from the Tingkat of Memories, where diners can choose four for $28. Our selection included the Chilli Crab Tacos, Paper-Wrapped Quail, Shiso Hamburg with Kimchi and Hokkaido Scallops with Herbal Dashi Beurre Blanc.

The standout for me was the Chilli Crab Tacos, which cleverly swaps the conventional taco shell for crisp beancurd skin. It provides a delicate crunch while holding a generous filling of chilli crab and tandoori-spiced chicken. The sweet and savoury richness of chilli crab is layered with warmth and spice from the tandoori seasoning, making this one of the meal's more memorable bites.

Paper-Wrapped Quail 4/5

The Paper-Wrapped Quail is a more personal creation, inspired by one of the first dishes Chef TQ learnt to prepare as a young chef. Drawing on the nostalgic paper-wrapped chicken, the quail is a refined interpretation of the familiar dish. The delicate meat carries a savoury, aromatic depth, while the presentation and execution reflect how the chef has evolved from those early culinary memories.

Shiso Hamburg with Kimchi 4/5

The Shiso Hamburg with Kimchi brings together Japanese and Korean influences, pairing the aromatic freshness of shiso with the punchy, fermented character of kimchi. It is a compact bite, but it delivers plenty of flavour.

Hokkaido Scallops with Herbal Dashi Beurre Blanc 4/5

The Hokkaido Scallops with Herbal Dashi Beurre Blanc takes a more delicate approach. Sweet, plump scallops are paired with a silky beurre blanc enriched with herbal dashi, combining French technique with Japanese flavours. The sauce adds depth without overpowering the natural sweetness of the scallops.

Seafood Otak Chawanmushi 4.5/5

One of the menu's highlights is the Seafood Otak Chawanmushi ($24). The chawanmushi is remarkably silky, with a layer of spiced fish paste running through the custard to bring out the familiar sweet and spicy flavours of otak. It is then taken several notches higher with a luxurious topping of uni, caviar, sweet Caledonia prawns and tender Hokkaido scallops. Despite the richness, the dish remains cohesive thanks to the fragrant green curry poured over the top. The curry adds a creamy, aromatic and mildly spicy dimension that ties the seafood and otak together beautifully.

Tamarind Kale Salad 4/5

The Tamarind Kale Salad ($22) is another playful interpretation, combining mint yoghurt, battered kale and pomegranate. Rather than a conventional salad, it almost eats like a deconstructed take on Indian street food - Pani Puri. The tamarind brings a tangy and slightly sweet punch, while the battered kale provides an addictive crunch. Juicy pomegranate seeds add bursts of tartness and sweetness, while the cooling mint yoghurt helps balance the stronger flavours. There are almost echoes of pani puri here, particularly in the combination of tang, sweetness, spice and freshness.

ABC Root Vegetable Melange

In between the richer courses comes the ABC Root Vegetable Melange, a playful palate cleanser inspired by the familiar ABC soup. The dish comprises green apple sorbet, beetroot tagliatelle and carrot tartare.

Tom Yum 'Chee Cheong Fun' 4.2/5

The Tom Yum 'Chee Cheong Fun' ($44) is perhaps one of the menu’s most imaginative creations. Ulam herb lasagna is rolled and stuffed with assam fish farce, giving it the look and texture of chee cheong fun while retaining the herbs’ aromatic character. The rolls are served in a rich, velvety tom yum lobster bisque, bringing together sour, spicy, and seafood-forward flavours. Alongside it is a clever sambal cuttlefish "pappardelle", with tender ribbons of cuttlefish mimicking Italian pasta while contributing a smoky, spicy kick. It is an interesting collision of Southeast Asian flavours and Western presentation.

Hainan Pork Mille-Feuille 4/5

The Hainan Pork Mille-Feuille ($44) pays homage to the familiar flavours of Hainanese curry rice. Pork, vegetables and curry are reworked into a layered mille-feuille, topped with puffed rice for an added crunch. The accompanying curry sauce brings the comforting, savoury richness of curry rice, while grilled pineapple adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to cut through the richness. It is a sophisticated reinterpretation that retains the nostalgic soul of the original dish in one bite.

Quail Medallion Panggang 4.2/5

For the mains, the Quail Medallion Panggang ($28) sees quail chargrilled until the surface develops a beautiful smoky char while the meat remains tender and juicy within. It is served over a silky celeriac purée, whose subtle sweetness and creamy texture gently contrast the more robust quail. A rich truffle sauce further deepens the smoky flavours, while the deep-fried cauliflower bhaji brings an aromatic Indian-inspired crunch to the plate. The combination of chargrilled quail, truffle and spiced cauliflower makes this a well-balanced dish with plenty of contrasting textures and flavours.

Childhood Popsicle 4/5

Before dessert, we were served the Childhood Popsicle, a non-alcoholic pre-dessert inspired by the simple ice pops, or sng bao, that many Singaporeans may remember from childhood. This modern version uses Kyoho and Muscat grapes, resulting in a vibrant, fruit-forward popsicle that is refreshing and lightly sweet. It is a playful nod to childhood nostalgia, while giving the familiar ice pop a more polished, sophisticated treatment.

Asam Boi Sour Plum Shot 4/5

For an alcoholic alternative, the Asam Boi Sour Plum Shot takes inspiration from the sour plum shots once associated with the nightlife scene around Jiak Kim Street and Zouk. Made with vodka, housemade sour plum cordial and pickled apple, it is presented as a frozen sorbet surrounded by cascading dry ice. The combination of sour plum, fruit, and vodka is nostalgic yet playful, reminding us that the menu is not just about ingredients, but also about memories tied to places and experiences.

Yang Zi Gan Lu 4.2/5

Dessert begins with the Yang Zi Gan Lu ($22), a playful, modern take on the classic Hong Kong-style mango pomelo sago. Mango, mikan and golden passionfruit come together in a brighter, fruitier rendition of the familiar dessert. The mango's sweetness is balanced by the citrusy mikan and tangy passionfruit, creating a refreshing finish that feels familiar without simply replicating the original dessert.

Tangyuan 'Muah Chee' Cookie 4.5/5

My favourite dessert of the meal was the Tangyuan 'Muah Chee' Cookie ($22), which brings together two nostalgic Asian treats in one playful creation. A warm house-made peanut cookie is filled with a chewy mochi centre, then served with duo sesame gelato, crushed roasted peanuts and sesame seeds. The combination of textures makes this especially enjoyable — crisp, crumbly cookie; chewy mochi; creamy cold gelato; and nutty peanut crumble. The black and white sesame gelato adds a fragrant, slightly bitter nuttiness that works beautifully with the sweet peanut cookie, while the crushed peanuts reinforce the familiar flavours of muah chee.

Overall, the new menu at Jiak Kim House is an exploration of Asian culinary heritage through Chef TQ's personal lens. What makes it interesting is not simply how many cultures it represents, but how the dishes connect seemingly familiar flavours and memories in unexpected ways.

From chilli crab and otak to Hainanese curry rice, tom yum, muah chee, and even the humble childhood ice pop, the menu draws on recognisable references. It gives them new forms through contemporary techniques and presentation. Some dishes are playful, some nostalgic, and others more luxurious, but a consistent sense of storytelling runs through the meal.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jiak Kim House
5 Jiak Kim Street
#01-16/17
Singapore 169426
Tel: +65 98315430
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Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock Road MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to the traffic junction at Kim Seng Road and Havelock Road. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Kim Seng Road towards Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel. Turn right onto Jiak Kim Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

KOU at Ichigo Ichie @ Claymore Connect - An Intimate 9-Course Journey of Japanese-French Elegance

Located within the intimate setting of Ichigo Ichie at Claymore Connect, KOU is a Japanese-French pop-up dining concept that speaks in a language of restraint and quiet confidence. Helmed by Chef Tan Kian Hong, the experience unfolds as a thoughtful dialogue between Japanese seasonality and classical French techniques — a philosophy shaped by over 14 years of experience, including a formative mentorship under Executive Chef Akane Eno.

Running every Sunday and Monday until 31 August 2026, KOU presents a limited-time opportunity to experience Chef Kian Hong’s personal culinary voice. The name itself carries meaning — “KOU” drawn from the kanji 宏 (kou) in his name, paired with 红 (hong), symbolising warmth, openness, and depth.

During our visit, we experienced the 9-Course Signature Menu ($188++), available for both lunch and dinner.

Kegani 5/5

The meal opens on a high note with the Kegani (Horsehair Crab). Presented elegantly within its shell, the sweet, delicate crab meat is layered with Tamanegi sweet onion and crowned with caviar. It is a composition that celebrates the purity of the crustacean — briny, sweet, and clean — offering a refined yet impactful start to the meal.

Bread 4.2/5

The bread course is far from an afterthought. A trio of Mochi Bread, Milk Bread, and Sourdough arrives warm, accompanied by housemade seasonal spreads. During our visit, these included monkfish liver, French butter, and sesame paste. Each pairing offers a different expression — from rich umami depth to nutty aromatics — elevating what could have been a simple interlude.

Maguro 4.5/5

The Maguro features luscious chutoro that quite literally melts in the mouth. Paired with tomato, the dish gains a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness while subtly balancing the fish's iron notes. It is a clean, elegant interplay of flavours.

Corn 4/5

A reimagined Chawanmushi challenges expectations. Served chilled instead of warm, the silken egg custard is layered with sweet white corn and finished with caffeine-free coffee oil. The aromatic hint of coffee adds an unexpected dimension. While technically thoughtful and intriguing, the departure from the familiar warmth of traditional chawanmushi may divide opinions — a dish that invites reflection as much as it does appreciation.

Wagyu 4.5/5

An optional indulgence, the A5 Wagyu Sando (+$38) features beautifully marbled wagyu tenderloin prepared katsu-style. Sandwiched between toasted bread and complemented with wasabi and tonkatsu sauce, it delivers a rich, juicy bite with a satisfying contrast of textures.

Abalone 5/5

The standout of the evening is undoubtedly the Awabi. Encased in buttery puff pastry in the style of a French pithivier, the abalone is paired with both a traditional liver sauce and a red wine sauce. This dish perfectly encapsulates KOU’s identity — Japanese soul with French form. The richness of the pastry, the briny sweetness of the abalone, and the dual sauces create a deeply layered, unforgettable experience.

Pork 4/5

The Pork course presents a juicy, tender meatball accompanied by two sauces — Goya (bitter gourd) and Kampot Pepper. While the bitterness of the goya offers an interesting contrast, the Kampot pepper sauce stands out with its aromatic heat and depth, complementing the pork more harmoniously.

Somen 5/5

The Somen course brings comfort and finesse together. Using premium Miwa somen aged three years from Nara Prefecture, the noodles are served in an eight-hour duck dashi broth, simply seasoned with shoyu and mirin. The gentle chew of the noodles absorbs the deeply savoury broth beautifully, while a touch of yuzu zest adds a refreshing lift. It is a soothing yet refined conclusion to the savoury courses — so much so that some diners may find themselves asking for a second serving of the broth.

Koji 4/5

Dessert begins with Koji, showcasing a restrained sweetness profile. The combination of pineapple and white rum introduces brightness and aromatic complexity, while the use of fermentation reflects Japanese culinary traditions through a refined French lens.

Mignardise 4.2/5

The meal concludes with Mignardise, with the seaweed financier standing out — a delicate bite that subtly echoes the Japanese influence, bringing the experience to a thoughtful close.

KOU is not a concept that shouts for attention. Instead, it draws you in with its quiet confidence and thoughtful execution. Chef Tan Kian Hong’s cooking reflects a deep respect for seasonality, allowing ingredients to speak while weaving together Japanese sensibilities and French techniques with finesse.

The menu is introspective yet expressive, with dishes like the Awabi leaving a lasting impression, while others challenge and provoke. As a limited-time pop-up, KOU offers a rare glimpse into a chef’s evolving identity — one shaped by experience, mentorship, and a clear sense of purpose.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


KOU at Ichigo Ichie
Claymore Connect
442 Orchard Road
#01-16/17
Singapore 238879
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 12pm (Lunch), 7pm (Dinner)

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards the Royal Thai Embassy. Walk to Orchard Road towards the junction of Orchard Road and Claymore Road. Cross the road and turn right. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

DOMO Modern Japanese @ Fairmont Hotel - Refined Japanese Cuisine with a Contemporary Twist

DOMO Modern Japanese may be just over a year old, but it’s already making its mark on Singapore’s dining scene with its contemporary take on Japanese cuisine. Named after the Japanese expression “Domo Arigatou” (“thank you”), the restaurant combines Japanese techniques with subtle European influences in a refined yet approachable setting.

Leading the kitchen is Chef Rose Ang, whose 29 years of culinary experience include working with Nobu Hospitality across Europe. Her global experience is reflected throughout the menu, where Japanese flavours are thoughtfully complemented by European touches, resulting in dishes that are balanced, elegant and never overcomplicated.

Salmon Tataki 4/5

We started with the Salmon Tataki ($22), lightly seared and served with Dijon miso sauce and a balsamic glaze. The gentle smokiness from the aburi edges complements the rich salmon beautifully. At the same time, the Dijon miso adds a savoury depth before the balsamic cuts through with just enough acidity to keep every bite balanced. It’s a great introduction to Chef Rose’s signature approach of marrying Japanese techniques with European influences.

Chawanmushi 3.8/5

The Chawanmushi ($18) arrives generously filled with prawn, crab meat and ikura. Seafood lovers will appreciate its natural sweetness, though diners more sensitive to stronger seafood flavours may find it slightly fish-forward. The silky steamed egg provides a comforting base that lets the fresh seafood shine.

Sashimi Salad with Nashi Pear Dressing 5/5

Instead of the usual sashimi platter, we opted for the Sashimi Salad with Nashi Pear Dressing ($24), and it turned out to be one of our favourite dishes. The combination of fresh sashimi, crisp greens and crunchy nashi pear created a refreshing contrast of textures, while the dressing was light and well-balanced without being overly sweet.

Sashimi Taco 5/5

The Sashimi Taco ($18 for 2 pieces) comes in different variations, and we tried both the salmon and tuna versions. The Salmon Taco, paired with tomato shiso salsa, was pleasant and approachable, though the flavours leaned toward the milder side. We thought a spicy variation would give it a little more excitement.

Tuna Taco 5/5

The Tuna version, on the other hand, was outstanding. The combination of tuna, avocado and feta created a richer and more balanced flavour profile, making this our preferred choice between the two.

Snow Crab & Tobiko Baked Rice 4.8/5

For mains, we had the Snow Crab & Tobiko Baked Rice ($48), which was generously topped with sweet snow crab, while the rice carried a subtle ginger fragrance that complemented the seafood without overpowering it. Comforting, satisfying and perfect for sharing, this is a dish we’d happily order again.

Domo Sour 4/5

The drinks menu offers a surprisingly good selection at reasonable prices. We tried the Domo Sour ($16), a whisky-based cocktail with bitters and yuzu. Smooth, citrusy and refreshing, it paired well with the seafood dishes throughout the meal.

Sticky Ginger Date Pudding 5/5

Chef Rose recommended her signature Sticky Ginger Date Pudding ($16), served with soy toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream. Replacing salt with soy sauce was an interesting touch, adding subtle savouriness to the dessert. The pudding itself reminded us of a Chinese red date and ginger steamed cake, while the vanilla ice cream made it richer and more indulgent.

Chilled Mango Gazpacho 4/5

For something lighter, we also tried the Chilled Mango Gazpacho with Yuzu Shiso Pomelo ($22). Think of it as a refined take on the classic Hong Kong mango pomelo dessert, elevated with fragrant shiso and yuzu. Refreshing and not overly sweet, it was a lovely way to end the meal.

Beyond the food, we were pleasantly surprised by the restaurant’s spacious layout. DOMO features four private dining rooms with minimum spend starting at just $80 per person, making it a great option for celebrations, corporate gatherings, or intimate dinners. Combined with its elegant ambience and thoughtfully curated menu, DOMO delivers a dining experience that feels polished yet welcoming.

Beyond the signature dishes we tried, DOMO offers an extensive à la carte menu featuring sashimi, sushi, robata-grilled seafood and meats, noodles and rice, giving diners plenty of reasons to return and explore more of the menu. For those seeking a more curated experience, Chef Rose also offers a Signature Tasting Menu from $88++, with bespoke omakase experiences starting at $300++.

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


DOMO
Fairmont Singapore
252 North Bridge Road
#03-00
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 89108835
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

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

Satori @ Amoy Street - Vibey Yakitori Spot Serving Over 50 Skewers at Wallet-Friendly Prices

Satori at Amoy Street fires up the grill with a lively, no-frills yakitori concept that strikes a compelling balance between omakase-level precision and the spirited energy of a modern Japanese tavern. Helmed by Chef Wilson, a protégé of yakitori master Chef Shyong from sister restaurant Sapōto, the concept brings serious grilling credentials into a more accessible, vibey setting.

With over 50 skewers on the menu priced from just $3.80, Satori is designed for both casual diners looking for a quick bite and enthusiasts eager to explore a wide spectrum of yakitori cuts.

Nori Salad 3.5/5

We began with the Nori Salad ($9.80), a refreshing starter that goes beyond the usual greens. Crisp lettuce and nori form the base, but what sets it apart is the addition of crispy whitebait scattered throughout. These tiny fish lend a delightful crunch and an umami punch, elevating the dish with both texture and depth. It’s a simple yet thoughtful composition that whets the appetite nicely.

Truffle Chawanmushi 4/5

The Truffle Chawanmushi ($9.80) is a crowd-pleasing classic done right. Silky smooth and delicately steamed, the custard melts effortlessly on the palate. The truffle oil is unmistakable, perfuming each spoonful with an earthy richness that feels indulgent without overwhelming the dish’s inherent lightness. It’s a comforting prelude to the heavier grilled items.

Tsukune (Minced Chicken)

Seseri Neck

Cherry Tomato

Bonjiri (Tail)

Sunagimo (Gizzard)

Shishito (Green Pepper)

Tebasaki (Mid Wing) / Chef’s Yakitori Set 4/5

To get a proper sense of Satori’s yakitori prowess, the Chef’s Selection Yakitori Set ($29.80) is an excellent starting point. Comprising seven skewers — including four chicken cuts, one organ, and two vegetables — it offers a well-rounded introduction to the menu. Each skewer is grilled over binchotan charcoal, imparting a deep, smoky aroma while preserving the ingredients’ natural juiciness.

The tsukune (minced chicken) is tender and well-seasoned, with a slight bounce and savoury glaze that lingers. Seseri (neck) delivers a satisfying chew with rich chicken flavour, while bonjiri (tail) stands out for its fatty, melt-in-the-mouth decadence. The sunagimo (gizzard) offers a firmer bite, adding textural contrast to the lineup. On the vegetable front, the shishito pepper provides a mild, smoky sweetness, and the cherry tomato bursts with juicy brightness, acting as a refreshing counterpoint. The tebasaki (mid-wing) rounds out the set with juicy meat beneath lightly crisped skin.

Mini Unagi Don 4/5

For something more substantial, the Mini Unagi Don ($16.80) makes for a satisfying companion. The grilled eel is glazed with a luscious sweet-savoury sauce that seeps into the fluffy Japanese rice beneath. A glossy egg yolk adds creaminess, balancing the sweetness, while slices of cucumber inject a welcome crunch and freshness. Despite its “mini” label, it feels hearty enough to anchor the meal.

Chicken Heart 4/5

Pork Belly with Lettuce 4.2/5

We also explored a few additional skewers. The Chicken Heart ($3.80) impresses with its clean, rich flavour and springy texture, free from any metallic aftertaste that sometimes plagues organ meats. The Pork Belly with Lettuce ($6.80) is particularly enjoyable — the pork belly renders beautifully over the grill, achieving a smoky, slightly crisp exterior. At the same time, the lettuce inside remains lightly wilted yet refreshing. It’s a clever combination, with the lettuce acting as a natural palate cleanser against the richness of the pork.

Beef Tongue 4.2/5

The Beef Tongue ($13.80) is grilled quickly over high heat, resulting in a caramelised char on the edges while retaining a tender bite. Its inherent fattiness and deep beefy flavour are enhanced by the smokiness from the binchotan, making it one of the more indulgent skewers on the menu.

Overall, Satori succeeds in delivering quality yakitori without the stiffness of a traditional omakase setting. The skewers are thoughtfully executed, the menu is extensive yet approachable, and the atmosphere encourages lingering over drinks and multiple rounds of skewers. It’s the kind of place where you can drop by for a casual bite or settle in for a full-on yakitori feast with friends — all without breaking the bank.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Satori
89 Amoy Street
Singapore 069908
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 3pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

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

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]