Lao Beijing @ Square 2 (Novena) - New 6-Course Ultimate Roast Duck Indulgence Set at $88++

Lao Beijing at Novena Square 2 has served classic Chinese dishes since 1996, with a menu that blends familiar favourites with contemporary interpretations. For a limited time, it is introducing its Ultimate Roast Duck Indulgence Set, a six-course meal designed for weekday gatherings with family, friends or colleagues.

Ultimate Roast Duck Indulgence Set 4.2/5

Priced at $88++ for 4 persons, the set is available for both lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday. Diners can also top up just $1++ per person for a bowl of Hot and Sour Soup.

Cherry Tomato

Smashed Cucumber

The meal begins with two appetisers: the Cherry Tomato Infused with Roselle and Smashed Cucumber with Sesame Oil, Garlic and Chilli. The Smashed Cucumber ($7 à la carte) was garlicky, while the chilled Cherry Tomatoes ($8 à la carte) were an appetising start, sweet with a tang from the roselle.

Hot and Sour Soup with Shredded Chicken

For just $1++ per person with the set, the Hot and Sour Soup with Shredded Chicken makes a comforting addition. The thick, warm broth has spicy, tangy notes, with tofu, shredded chicken, carrots, and black fungus.

‘Mapo’ Tofu with Sliced Fish

The ‘Mapo’ Tofu with Sliced Fish ($18 à la carte) brings together silky tofu and tender fish slices in a fermented bean paste-based sauce with minced meat. It had a savoury, mildly spicy profile that paired well with rice.

Stir-Fried ‘Kai Lan’ with Minced Garlic

Next was the Stir-Fried ‘Kai Lan’ with Minced Garlic, a simple dish done well, with crunchy kai lan. The seasoning was just right.

Lao Beijing Peking Duck

The highlight of the set is naturally the signature Lao Beijing Peking Duck, made using premium Irish ducks from Silver Hill Farm in Ireland. The duck undergoes extensive preparation, including marination and air-drying, before roasting. We enjoyed the contrast of the crisp skin and tender meat, and found it perfect for those who enjoy their Peking Duck with a fattier bite. The Peking Duck is also available separately at $98 for a whole duck or $55 for half.

Signature Claypot Rice

Pair all the dishes with Lao Beijing’s Signature Claypot Rice, which is slow-cooked in duck bone broth for a deep savoury flavour. Toppings of coriander, spring onions, and crispy shallots added extra aroma, and we appreciated how well the rice was cooked.

Firecracker Chicken Nest 4/5

On top of the set, we also tried the Firecracker Chicken Nest ($30). The deep-fried diced chicken is tossed in dried chilli and peppercorns, served with “chilled eggs” made of sweet mango purée. We liked the chunkier bites of meat, though the mango purée could be a touch less sweet.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣) and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.



Lao Beijing
Square 2
#02-80
10 Sinaran Drive
Singapore 307506
Tel: +65 6358 4466
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Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 5.30pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 5pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Novena MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

QIN Restaurant and Bar @ The Clan Hotel - Unveils an Exquisite New Menu Helmed by Incoming Homegrown Icon Chef Marvas Ng

Perched on the fourth floor of The Clan Hotel, QIN Restaurant & Bar continues to make its mark on the local dining scene with its cityscape views and refined East-meets-West culinary philosophy. With the arrival of homegrown chef Marvas Ng, formerly from the MICHELIN-Selected Path Restaurant, QIN ushers in an exciting new chapter. His refreshed menu leans into chef-driven creativity while staying rooted in familiar Asian flavours elevated with French finesse. From small plates to signatures, diners can expect thoughtful compositions using premium local and regional produce — a renewed identity that brings fresh energy to QIN's dining experience.

Local Marinated Cherries Tomato 4.2/5

A light and elegant start is the Local Marinated Cherry Tomatoes ($22). Sweet tomatoes sourced from Cameron Highlands are paired with delicate chrysanthemum jelly in a refreshing citrus broth that whets the appetite for what's to come.

Straits Wild Caught Sea Bream "Hai Diao" 4/5

Next is the Straits Wild Caught Sea Bream "Hai Diao" ($28). Clean-tasting slices of sea bream sit atop a local vegetable spring roll, offering a light and crisp bite with textural contrast from the crunchy vegetables.

Sarawak Pork Ear Terrine "Qian Cheng" 4.2/5

An innovative execution, the Sarawak Pork Ear Terrine "Qian Ceng" ($22) transforms humble pig ears into a delicate terrine inspired by classic pig trotter preparations. It is paired with pickled mountain pepper gastrique and local vegetables for acidity and depth.

Shanghainese Hairy Crab Roe "Dou Hua" 4.8/5

One of my favourite dishes of the evening is the Shanghainese Hairy Crab Roe "Dou Hua" ($22). Smooth housemade soy curd is topped with brown crab, hairy crab roe and pickled chilli — a savoury, robust and aromatic combination that complements the creamy curds beautifully. A slice of toasted bread is served on the side, perfect for spreading the rich mixture like a pâté.

Wagyu Beef "Hei Hu Jiao" 4.2/5

The Wagyu Beef "Hei Hu Jiao" ($6 per piece, $16 for 3 pieces) comes in the form of a black sphere filled with wagyu beef, black pepper sauce, shallot and mustard seed. Bite into it for an explosion of peppery, aromatic flavours reminiscent of a Taiwanese Hu Jiao Bing.

Hokkaido Pork Belly (Yume No Daichi) "Har Cheong" 4.2/5

Another addictive dish is the Hokkaido Pork Belly "Har Cheong" ($20). Instead of the usual prawn paste chicken, the prawn paste marinade is used on thinly sliced Hokkaido pork belly. Deep-fried to a crisp, it carries the unmistakable aroma of har cheong — a moreish bite that's hard to stop at one.

Spanish Bellota Ribs "Shao Kao" 4.2/5

The Spanish Bellota Ribs "Shao Kao" ($35) impress with their tenderness. Coated in a savoury Chu Hou sauce and topped with tomato and crispy aromatics, the ribs are delicious and fall off the bone with ease.

Straits Line Caught Local Threadfin "Qing Zhen" 4.2/5

The Straits Line Caught Local Threadfin "Qing Zheng" ($42) is steamed Canton-style with a shallot soy vinaigrette that highlights the natural sweetness and freshness of the fish.

During lunch, QIN offers three business set menus ranging from $38++ to $65++, each accompanied by either rice or salad. The rice is fluffy and fragrant, and I recommend it unless you prefer a lighter meal; in that case, the refreshing oyster-shallot vinaigrette salad is a suitable choice.

Cameron Highland "Nai Cha" 4.5/5

A creative dessert is the Cameron Highland "Nai Cha" ($12), inspired by bubble tea. Roasted black tea from Cameron Highlands is infused into a cream custard, served with cream cheese espuma, black tea boba, and buckwheat for textural contrast. A sprinkle of sea salt subtly lifts the flavours.

Gula Melaka "Ma Shu" 4/5

The Gula Melaka "Ma Shu" ($9), made with warabi starch, takes inspiration from ondeh-ondeh. Chewy and coated in coconut flakes, it reminds me more of kueh kosui in texture.

Sesame 'Su" 4/5

Lastly, the Sesame "Su" ($7 per piece, $18 for 3 pieces) resembles a spring roll, with crisp filo pastry wrapped around a filling of Okinawan brown sugar and nutty black sesame — a simple but satisfying end to the meal.

With Chef Marvas Ng at the helm, QIN Restaurant & Bar enters a refreshing new phase, bringing elevated Asian flavours and polished French techniques into a cohesive, contemporary menu. The dishes are thoughtfully executed with quality ingredients, presenting both comfort and creativity in equal measure. Whether you're here for their value-for-money business lunch sets or a leisurely dinner overlooking the city skyline, QIN offers a refined yet approachable dining experience worth returning for.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


QIN Restaurant & Bar
The Clan Hotel
Level 4 & 5
10 Cross Street
Singapore 048417
Tel: +65 6980 3535
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Yanhuo Restaurant (烟伙餐馆) @ Cross Street - The Firework of Modern Chinese Cuisine and Vintage Charm

Yan Huo Chinese Restaurant (烟伙餐馆) offers a modern yet homely dining experience built around the warmth of Chinese culinary traditions. The restaurant’s name, which translates to “flame of flavour,” reflects its commitment to wok hei-driven dishes and robust regional influences. The interiors combine modern Chinese aesthetics with a cosy, family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for gatherings or casual dinners. Service is attentive without being intrusive, and portions are generous, offering good value for money. A warm touch of modern Chinese and vintage charm to celebrate the ‘Fireworks’ of life!

Cherry Tomatoes | Tangerine 4.2/5

The Cherry Tomatoes ($16), marinated with tangerine, burst with sweet and tangy flavours that are refreshing and appetising. It’s a light, palate-awakening starter that perfectly whets the appetite for the meal ahead.

Dry Pot Cabbage with Chinese Bacon | Dried Chilli 4.2/5

The Dry Pot Cabbage with Chinese Bacon and Dried Chilli ($20) was well executed. The cabbage retained its crunch and natural sweetness, while the Chinese bacon added a savoury depth. The dried chilli brought just the right amount of heat to complete this aromatic and flavourful stir-fry.

Mapo Tofu | Iberico Pork, A4 Wagyu 4.5/5

The Mapo Tofu ($28) is easily one of the best I’ve had. The silky tofu bathed in a rich, spicy, and umami-laden sauce is deeply satisfying. The use of premium minced Iberico pork and A4 wagyu elevates the dish with indulgent layers of flavour and texture. It’s a definite rice killer that will have you reaching for an extra bowl.

Double Boiled Grouper Pot 4.5/5

The Double Boiled Grouper Pot ($48/$68) immediately caught my eye. Thick, firm slices of grouper are poached to perfection and paired with plump clams, firm tofu, and cabbage. The highlight, however, is the pumpkin broth — sweet, rich, and full of depth, providing comfort and nourishment in every spoonful.

Pineapple La Zi Chicken | Cashew Nuts 4.2/5

The Pineapple La Zi Chicken ($28) features boneless chicken chunks deep-fried to a crisp golden exterior while remaining juicy inside. The addition of cashew nuts adds crunch, and the pineapple pieces balance the fiery chillies with refreshing sweetness. It is a playful and well-balanced rendition of the classic spicy chicken dish.

Not to be missed is their value-for-money lunch set, available as a 2-Course ($38) or 3-Course ($58) option, perfect for those who want to enjoy Yan Huo’s refined flavours in a more accessible format.

Note: This is an invted tasting.


Yanhuo Restaurant (烟伙餐馆)
22 Cross Street
#01-56A,#01-57/62
Singapore 048421
Tel: +65 83388511
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk down Cross Street to South Bridge Road. At the junction of Cross Street and South Bridge Road, cross the road. Turn left onto South Bridge Road. Walk down South Bridge Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to China Street. Turn right onto China Street. Walk down China Street. Turn left onto Chin Chew Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]