The Hainan Story @ Jewel Changi Airport - Familiar Hainanese Favourites & Larger-Than-Life Creations

The Hainan Story at Jewel Changi Airport brings together familiar Hainanese flavours, nostalgic comfort food and some rather playful creations under one roof. From classic Hainanese chicken rice and curry to old-school Western favourites, there’s plenty to choose from whether you’re craving something comforting or simply looking for a hearty meal before or after a flight. We revisited some of our favourites and also tried a few newer additions to the menu.

Signature Fried Kway Teow 3/5

The Signature Fried Kway Teow ($11.90) comes with two large prawns and has a slightly sweet-savoury flavour. Unfortunately, it was a little bland for our liking and lacked the smoky wok-hei we usually look for in a good plate of fried kway teow. Not our favourite of the meal, especially with so many other stronger dishes on the menu.

Newspaper Curry Chicken Drumstick Rice 4.5/5

The Newspaper Curry Chicken Drumstick Rice ($10.80) never fails! We love the rich and lemak curry generously drenched over the rice. Creamy, comforting and full of flavour, this is the kind of curry where we could easily mop the plate clean. Definitely one of those dishes we would happily order again.

Gourmet Hainanese Thick Bee Hoon Laksa 3.8/5

The ‘lemak-ness’ continued with the Gourmet Hainanese Thick Bee Hoon Laksa ($15.80). It comes with char siew, which is rather unusual for laksa, but surprisingly, it works, and the char siew was good! That said, we felt the laksa itself was missing a little something, perhaps that deeper, more pronounced shrimp flavour that would have given the broth an extra boost.

Hainan Steamed Chicken Mix Roasted Chicken 4/5

When it comes to Hainanese cuisine, you can’t leave out Hainanese chicken rice. We tried the Hainan Steamed Chicken Mix Roasted Chicken Platter ($20 Half) by Wee Nam Kee, one of my favourite chicken rice brands in Singapore. A household name since 1987, Wee Nam Kee is known for its authentic Hainanese chicken rice, and it’s easy to see why. The chicken was tender and paired especially well with the bold house-made sauces.

Signature Hainanese Curry Fish Head 5/5

It wasn’t our first time having the Signature Hainanese Curry Fish Head ($28), and it definitely won’t be our last. The gravy is almost a cross between a rich curry and tangy assam broth. It is flavourful yet light enough to drink on its own, although we think it tastes even better drenched generously over rice! There’s also a good variety of vegetables, including long beans, eggplant, and tofu puffs, along with the tender, meaty fish. This remains one of our absolute favourites here.

Chapter 2 1980’s Hainanese Chicken Cutlet with Pork Cheesy Sausage 4/5

If you’re in the mood for something more Western, go for the Chapter 2 1980’s Hainanese Chicken Cutlet with Pork Cheesy Sausage ($19.80). The portion is generous, complete with an impressive 8-inch sausage. More importantly, the chicken cutlet was nicely breaded and crisp without feeling overly greasy.

The Monster Kongzilla 3.8/5

Now, this is one dish guaranteed to get some attention. New on the menu, The Monster Kongzilla ($18.80) is exactly as dramatic as its name suggests. Designed for sharing, ideally amongst four people alongside other dishes. It features a monster-sized grilled baguette loaded with a whopping 40cm XXXL cheesy chicken sausage. Layered with lettuce, tomato and cucumber, then finished with nacho cheese and ketchup, with coleslaw and tempura sweet potato fries served on the side. Order this, and we can almost guarantee a few eyeballs will be heading towards your table!

Fossa Chocolate

Here’s something for nostalgic Singaporeans. An exclusive Fossa Chocolate x Mr Kiasu collaboration, the Min Jiang Kueh and Kopi Gao Chocolate Bars ($13.08 each) are available exclusively at Chapter Two, Jewel Changi Airport. We especially love the packaging, which instantly brings back memories of the iconic Mr Kiasu character. These would make a fun little souvenir too, especially if you’re looking for something with a distinctly local touch.

The Hainan Story is one of those places where there really is something for everyone. With its mix of traditional Hainanese favourites, old-school Western dishes and newer creations, The Hainan Story at Jewel works particularly well for groups and families where everyone may be craving something different.

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


The Hainan Story
Jewel Changi Airport
78 Airport Boulevard
#B2-201/202
Singapore 819666
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Changi Airport MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Kokoro Izakaya @ Lau Pa Sat Festival Market - Day-to-Night Izakaya Experience in a Historic Landmark

Kokoro Izakaya has made its debut at Lau Pa Sat, bringing the convivial charm of Japanese izakaya culture into one of Singapore’s most iconic dining landmarks. Set beneath the striking Victorian cast-iron structure of the gazetted national monument, the concept offers a refreshing dual experience — affordable Japanese set meals for the CBD lunch crowd by day, and a lively izakaya atmosphere with charcoal-grilled skewers, oden and drinks by night.

Tori Katsu Don Set (Weekday Set Lunch) 4/5

Catering to the busy office crowd, Kokoro Izakaya rolls out wallet-friendly weekday lunch sets from just $9.90 nett (11am to 4pm). The Tori Katsu Don Set ($9.90) is a satisfying and fuss-free option, comprising a crispy chicken cutlet gently simmered with egg in a savoury, bonito-based sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. The combination delivers comforting, homely flavours with a good balance of savoury depth and subtle sweetness. Each set comes complete with a side of creamy potato salad and a choice of hot or cold green tea, making it a well-rounded and value-for-money meal in the heart of the CBD. Other lunch options include the Pork Katsu Kare Set ($10.90) and Salmon Teriyaki Don Set ($11.90), offering variety without stretching the wallet.

Salmon Teriyaki Don 4/5

Wagyu Beef Don 4/5

For those seeking something more indulgent, the Wagyu Beef Don ($23.90) offers a more premium experience. The bowl features tender slices of beef paired with a luscious egg yolk, crispy fried garlic, and seaweed, creating a rich, umami-packed combination. The Salmon Teriyaki Don is another crowd-pleaser, with glazed salmon that is lightly caramelised, delivering a balance of sweetness and savoury notes that pairs well with the rice beneath.

Black Garlic Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen 4.2/5

Beyond rice bowls, Kokoro Izakaya also serves a selection of noodle dishes. The Black Garlic Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen ($14.90) stands out for its robust, comforting profile. The broth is thick, creamy and full-bodied, coating each strand of noodle with rich porky goodness. The addition of black garlic lends an extra layer of depth and aroma, elevating the overall flavour. The noodles have a pleasant bite, while the bowl is generously topped with two sizeable slices of tender chashu and a perfectly marinated ajitsuke tamago.

Sauteed Udon with Japanese Asari Clam 4.2/5

Another noteworthy noodle dish is the Sauteed Udon with Japanese Asari Clam ($14.90). The udon boasts a delightful chewy texture, tossed in a flavourful sauce with a hint of chilli heat. The sweetness of the plump and juicy asari clams adds a natural briny depth, resulting in a well-balanced dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Skewers 3.5/5

As evening sets in and Lau Pa Sat transforms into a bustling nightlife spot, Kokoro Izakaya shifts gears into a lively izakaya destination. The spotlight falls on its Charcoal-grilled Skewers, with more than 15 varieties grilled over premium binchotan charcoal. This imparts a distinctive smoky aroma that defines the izakaya experience. Highlights include Tebasaki (chicken wing), Hotate Scallop, Tori Tsukune (chicken and potato), Uzura Tamago (quail egg), Sunagimo (chicken gizzard), Buta Bara (pork belly) and Shiitake mushroom. While the selection is extensive, the skewers are best enjoyed alongside drinks for a casual, communal experience.

Yaki Surume Ika 4/5

Seafood lovers should not miss the Yaki Surume Ika ($22.90). Grilled over charcoal and brushed with teriyaki sauce, the squid develops a beautifully caramelised exterior. It remains firm and bouncy in texture, with a subtle sweetness and smoky aroma that make it an excellent accompaniment to drinks.

Salmon Cheese Harumaki 3.8/5

Tori Shippo Karaage 3.8/5

Complementing the drinks menu is a selection of bar bites ideal for sharing. The Salmon Cheese Harumaki ($5.90) features flaky salmon and melted cheese encased in a crisp spring roll skin, offering a satisfying contrast of textures. The Tori Shippo Karaage ($8.90), a lesser-seen Japanese delicacy made from chicken tail, delivers a tender, slightly fatty bite that is both rich and flavourful.

Oden 4/5

For a comforting option, the traditional Japanese Oden is a highlight. Simmered in a light yet flavourful dashi broth, the selection includes a variety of ingredients that absorb the delicate umami essence. Diners can opt for individual items from $3 per piece or go for curated sets such as the three-item combination ($7.90) or the seven-item assortment ($17.90), making it an ideal companion to a relaxed evening over drinks.

Kokoro Izakaya brings a refreshing concept to Lau Pa Sat, seamlessly transitioning from an affordable lunch destination to a vibrant izakaya hangout after dark. Whether you are looking for a quick and satisfying midday meal or a casual spot to unwind with skewers and drinks in the evening, it offers a versatile dining experience set against the charm of a historic landmark.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kokoro Izakaya
Lau Pa Sat Festival Market
18 Raffles Quay
Unit MR20
Singapore 048582
Tel: +65 8758 7024
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Cross Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit I. Walk to Robinson Road. Turn left onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinson Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Ikki Izakaya @ The Metropolis - Japanese Comfort Food with a Local Twist

Tucked away at The Metropolis in Buona Vista, Ikki Izakaya is a modern Japanese-style izakaya that impresses with its expansive space, high ceilings, and laid-back yet contemporary atmosphere. Despite being around for eight years, it still feels like a hidden gem — offering a solid lineup of Japanese comfort food alongside an impressive selection of alcoholic beverages. Whether you're looking to wind down after work or catch up with friends over bites and booze, Ikki delivers an easygoing, fuss-free dining experience.

Spicy Maguro Poppers 4/5

We started the meal with the Spicy Maguro Poppers ($9.80) — a fun and flavourful bite served in crunchy pie tee cups. Inside, you'll find cubes of tuna sashimi marinated in gochujang, sitting on a creamy avocado base and topped with tobiko for that extra savoury burst. It's spicy, creamy, crunchy — all in one mouthful — and a great way to whet the appetite.

Tofu Crisps 3.5/5

We also tried the Tofu Crisps ($9), a simple yet addictive snack that substitutes fries or chips with thin, crispy tofu skin. While not particularly bold in flavour, it's a satisfying vegetarian-friendly option that goes perfectly with a cold pint.

Ikki Maki 4/5

One of the standouts for the evening was the Ikki Maki ($17.70), a rich and indulgent sushi roll that hits all the right notes. Cream cheese, avocado, and mentaiko sauce form the core of the roll, wrapped and topped with aburi salmon, mini fish roe, and a dusting of seaweed powder. Each bite is creamy, smoky, and umami-packed — a roll that's clearly earned its signature status on the menu.

IKKI's Kick Ass Har Cheong Gai Curry Udon 3.5/5

Adding a local twist to Japanese fare, the IKKI's Kick Ass Har Cheong Gai Curry Udon ($16.50) offers a unique blend of flavours. The creamy Japanese curry base is comforting and fragrant, served with a crispy chicken cutlet marinated in traditional prawn paste. While the concept is fun, the execution was slightly off during our visit — the seasoning leaned too salty, which overwhelmed the dish's otherwise enjoyable components.

SPAM Kimchi Fried Rice 4/5

For something more comforting and hearty, the SPAM Kimchi Fried Rice ($12.80) hits the mark. The fried rice is smoky and robust, filled with the punchy flavour of well-fermented kimchi and balanced out by soft, sweet tamagoyaki and pan-fried spam slices. It's the kind of dish you'd want after a long night out.

Ikki's Tsukune Platter 3.5/5

We ended with Ikki's Tsukune Platter ($16.80), featuring five yakitori-style chicken meatballs glazed in a different sauce: Mentaiko, Gochujang Miso, Okonomiyaki, Cheese, and Original. The platter makes for a great sharing dish, offering variety in flavour, though some combinations stood out more than others. Still, it's a fun and interactive way to sample different seasonings, especially with drinks.

Overall, Ikki Izakaya feels like a well-kept secret. It blends local influences with Japanese izakaya vibes in a relaxed and spacious setting. Whether you're in it for the drinks, the creative fusion dishes, or just a chill place to hang out, Ikki Izakaya checks all the right boxes.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ikki Izakaya
The Metropolis
9 North Buona Vista Drive
#01-06/07
Singapore 138588
Tel: +65 8138 8578
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 11pm
Sat: 6pm - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction
1) Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit B or D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Curry Times Restaurant - Unveils New Chicken Cutlet Curry Pao Fan

Founded by Old Chang Kee, Curry Times restaurant is a new dine-in concept specializing in curry dishes. Set in a nostalgic setting reminiscent of the glorious days of Mama's home-cooked food, Curry Times aims to bring back flavours and dishes from the past to be enjoyed once again. With multiple outlets island-wide, we visited the Curry Times Restaurant outlet at Westgate. The restaurant provides a casual and welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy a wide range of dishes, including Hainanese Chicken Rice and Nasi Lemak, alongside various curry-based options.

Chicken Cutlet Curry Pao Fan 4.2/5

Curry Times is introducing an exciting new creation: the Chicken Cutlet Curry Pao Fan. This creation combines a generous serving of pao fan, a comforting rice porridge, and a crispy chicken cutlet placed on top. The dish is further enhanced with fragrant and creamy curry sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavours and textures. For enthusiasts of both curry and pao fan, this inventive creation promises a must-try experience, allowing you to enjoy the best of both culinary worlds in a single, satisfying bowl. This set also comes with a free Barley drink at $10.90++.

Nasi Lemak with Chicken Super Drum 4/5

Apart from their new dish, we also tried the popular Nasi Lemak with Chicken Super Drum ($10.90). The Nasi lemak is a traditional Malaysian and Singaporean dish known for its fragrant coconut rice, and it is typically accompanied by various condiments such as sambal (spicy chilli paste), peanuts, fried anchovies, cucumber, and a hard-boiled or fried egg. In this variation, the dish is elevated with a huge chicken drumstick, adding a substantial and flavourful element to the classic nasi lemak.

Curry Chap Chye 4/5

The Curry Chap Chye is a flavourful and aromatic dish that combines the essence of two classic Asian dishes: curry and chap chye. This dish typically features a rich and savoury curry sauce infused with a blend of aromatic spices. The curry is then generously loaded with a variety of fresh vegetables and ingredients, such as tofu, beancurd skin, and assorted vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms. The result is a hearty and wholesome curry that serves as a perfect complement to your steamed white rice or Nasi Lemak rice.

Crispy Chicken Wing (3pc) 3.8/5

The Crispy Chicken Wing dish ($6.50) at Curry Times is a mouthwatering treat. We ordered them as a snack, which features a perfectly fried and crispy exterior while being tender and juicy on the inside. The wings paired well with the sweet chilli sauce provided on the side.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Curry Times
Westage
3 Gateway Drive
#02-08
Singapore 608532
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Jurong East MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 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]

Mian Jia Noodle Bar (麺家料理) @ Holland Village - Blown Away By the Super Shiok Mala Spicy Lobster Broth

I have not visited Holland Village since the start of the circuit breaker, and during this period it seems that there are quite a few changes. One of the newest addition to the F&B scene at Holland Village is Mian Jia Noodle Bar (麺家料理) which opened during the pandemic last year. To be exact, it relocated from Alexandra Central to its current location.

Lobster Prosperous Treasure Pot 4.5/5

For the upcoming Lunar New Year, Mian Jia Noodle Bar has launched the Lobster Prosperous Treasure Pot ($288). Quote "TENOFF" to enjoy 10% discount. Call or visit the restaurant to place your order, takeaway only as there is limited quantity. Unlike other Pen Cai, the treasure pot comes in a drinkable lobster bisque broth that comes brimming with premium ingredients. Customers can look forward to a sumptuous feast of Boston lobster, 10 heads braised abalone, Australian golden sea cucumber, Japanese scallops, Shajing oyster, Spanish Duroc pork ribs, handmade shrimp balls, braised chicken mid wings, bean root, pumpkin and Chinese cabbage.

Live Boston Lobster Broth Noodle 4.5/5

Signature at Mian Jia Noodle Bar is their Live Boston Lobster Broth Noodle ($26.90). There is both the Non-Spicy and Mala version. I got to try both versions, and I was blown away by the robust broth that is full of depth. The Mala version is beyond my expectation, the addition of peppercorn elevated the flavour to a whole new level. To be frank, I cannot decide which I like. Worth mentioning is the la mian noodle that has been cooked to a delectable consistency. The restaurant has specially imported the special cooking machine for consistency in every bowl.

Special Stewed Iberico Pork with Homemade Wanton Dry Noodle 4/5

Besides noodle soups, the restaurant also offers a variety of dry noodles. One of them is the Special Stewed Iberico Pork with Homemade Wanton Dry Noodle ($15.90). The chunky pork pieces may look sort of dry, but it melted in my mouth when I sunk my tooth into it. Give the la mian a good toss, to coat the sweet, savoury dark sauce on each noodle stand for a slurping enjoyment. The sauce reminds me of Malaysian kolo mee.

Crispy Crusted Chicken Cutlet 3.8/5

There are several side dishes on top of the dry and noodle soup on the menu to complete the meal. I tried the Crispy Crusted Chicken Cutlet ($6.90) though the skin was not as crispy as I would have like, the chicken was surprisingly very tender and juicy.

Spicy Chilli Oil Homemade Wanton 3.5/5

I also had the Spicy Chilli Oil Homemade Wanton ($5.90) which looks more like a dumpling than wanton. It is plump and juicy, dressed in spicy and fragrant chilli oil.

If not for my friend's introduction to this place, I probably would not have known of the restaurant as it  is hidden away at the end of the road from sight. I am glad that I have discovered a new noodle place that serves a delicious and a quality bowl of noodle. 

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mian Jia Noodle Bar (麺家料理) 
19 Lorong Liput
Singapore 277732
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B or C. Walk to Lorong Liput. Walk towards the junction of Lorong Liput and Lorong Mambong. Turn left onto Lorong Liput. Walk to the end of the road. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]