Yang Ming Seafood (Kelong) @ Vivocity - Popular Homegrown Live Seafood Restaurant Opens First In-mall Restaurant with a Kelong Theme Interior

Yang Ming Seafood, a well-loved homegrown seafood restaurant with branches in Bishan and Ubi, has launched its first in-mall waterfront outlet at VivoCity. Designed to evoke an authentic fish kelong experience, the largest of its three outlets seats up to 250 guests. It features a wine cellar, wooden floorboards, beams, fish nets, and live seafood tanks that all highlight the restaurant's commitment to freshness.

Charcoal Roasted Suckling Pig 4.2/5

The Charcoal Roasted Suckling Pig ($268) is a quintessential celebratory dish. Freshly roasted to order, the suckling pig arrives with incredibly aromatic and crispy skin — a perfect centrepiece for sharing.

NEW Fragrant Crispy Rice Crab 4/5

A standout addition to the menu is the Fragrant Crispy Rice Crab ($11 per 100g for Sri Lankan Crab, $10 per 100g for Indonesian Crab). This innovative dish offers a refreshing change from the traditional Singapore Chilli Crab. Paired with fragrant, crispy rice, the dish marries texture and flavour in a unique way, showcasing the crab's succulent, natural sweetness.

Crab Stewed Bee Hoon 4.2/5

Another crab option we tried was the Crab Stewed Bee Hoon ($11 per 100g for Sri Lankan Crab, $10 per 100g for Indonesian Crab). The silky bee hoon absorbs the robust, crustacean-rich flavours of the crab, resulting in a comforting, flavour-packed dish.

NEW Chicken Broth with Baby Cabbage 4.8/5

The Chicken Broth with Baby Cabbage ($88) is a crowd favourite, delivering a hearty, comforting experience. The broth is sweetened by chicken essence and baby cabbage, making it a light yet flavourful choice that’s perfect for group dining.

NEW Basil Sauce Live Prawn 4/5

Next up was the Basil Sauce Live Prawn ($28 for 300g, $40 for 500g, $78 for 1kg). This new addition offers a refreshing twist, with basil’s fragrant aroma enhancing the fresh, succulent prawns. The basil sauce brings an unexpected yet delightful flavour to the dish.

Minced Garlic Steamed Clam 4.2/5

The Minced Garlic Steamed Clam ($35 for 500g, $68 for 1kg) features plump, juicy clams steamed with fragrant minced garlic. Each bite captures the natural sweetness of the clams, complemented by the garlic’s savoury aroma.

NEW Braised Whole Tripe & Brisket 4.5/5

One of the evening's highlights was the new Braised Whole Tripe & Brisket ($108). This dish requires a pre-order and is well worth the wait. The beef tripe is stuffed with tender brisket and tendon, all in a flavourful, slightly spicy brown sauce. The complex layers of texture and taste make it a must-try for offal lovers.

NEW Dry Braised Pork Ribs 4/5

Another new menu item, the Dry Braised Pork Ribs ($20, $30, or $40), features tender, juicy pork ribs with a sauce that's been expertly absorbed into the meat. The ribs are a satisfying option, especially for those who enjoy bold, concentrated flavours.

Andrew Lobster 4.2/5

The Andrew Lobster is an iconic dish at Yang Ming Seafood. It is a dish my friend shared with the owner that he had in Hong Kong, and after much R&D, the chef created this dish, which became a hit with many foodies. The creation features silky chee cheong fan (rice noodle rolls) accented with fried shallots, fried garlic, and premium soy sauce. It's easy to see why; the dish strikes a perfect balance of flavour and texture, with each element enhancing the others.

Yang Ming Seafood's new VivoCity outlet is an impressive addition to the dining scene. With an emphasis on fresh, live seafood and authentic flavours, the restaurant delivers both innovation and comfort. The inviting kelong-inspired ambience and diverse menu make it an excellent choice for seafood lovers who enjoy quality dishes in a unique waterfront setting. Whether you're there for classic favourites or new creations, Yang Ming Seafood promises a memorable dining experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yang Ming Seafood (Kelong)
VivoCity
1 Harbourfront Walk
#02-158/159
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 65133009/ 80289907
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

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

Crystal Jade Palace @ Takashimaya - Limited-time Special Menu of Reimagined Local Favourites to Celebrate National Day

With Singapore's National Day approaching, Crystal Jade's various restaurant concepts are proud to launch a limited-time special menu of 'Local-inspired Delights' (本地经典风味菜肴) dishes available from now to 30 September 2024. The chefs have meticulously crafted this menu to pay homage to local dishes and flavours. At Crystal Jade Palace, featured dishes include Chilli Crab in Golden Kueh Pie Tee Cup, Hokkien Live Prawn Noodle with Pork Lardon in Opeh Leaf, and more.

Other Crystal Jade concepts, such as Crystal Jade Golden Palace, Crystal Jade Pavilion, Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen, and Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao, will each offer their own special reimagined dishes. During this period, Crystal Jade Jadeite members and UOB Cardmembers can enjoy 20% off all promotional dishes (excluding dessert) when dining in.

Chilli Crab in Golden Kueh Pie Tee Cup 4/5

First, we had an elevated kueh pie tee - Chilli Crab in Golden Kueh Pie Tee Cup ($18.80). The crispy pastry shell was filled with crab meat shreds in a tangy and spicy chilli crab sauce.

Double-boiled Fish Maw with Sea Whelk, Black Garlic & Chicken Soup in Coconut 4.5/5

Next, we moved to a nourishing bowl of soup. The Double-boiled Fish Maw with Sea Whelk, Black Garlic & Chicken Soup in Coconut ($42 per person) was brimming with many ingredients. The heartwarming soup had a depth of black garlic and sweetness from red dates.

Seafood Medley in Lime Leaf & Chilli Crab Sauce served with Golden Mantou 4.2/5

Enjoy the local favourite chilli crab without the mess. Crystal Jade’s Seafood Medley in Lime Leaf & Chilli Crab Sauce served with Golden Mantou ($68 for regular) features scallops, mussels and prawns cooked in a rich chilli crab sauce.

The mantous were fried to the best crunch, ideal for mopping up the spicy-sweet sauce.

Sambal French Bean & Eggplant with Crispy Silver Bait 4.2/5

Our vegetable dish was the Sambal French Bean & Eggplant with Crispy Silver Bait ($26 for regular). The french bean and strips of eggplant are sautéed in a slick homemade sambal sauce that perfectly coated every vegetable, while the silver baits were fried to a perfect crunch.

Hokkien Live Prawn Noodle with Pork Lardon in Opeh Leaf 4.2/5

The Hokkien Live Prawn Noodle with Pork Lardon in Opeh Leaf ($32) easily won the hearts of my dining companions and me. The noodles were well-textured and not simmered too soft, paired with prawns simmered in a robust prawn and pork lard stock. Make sure to mix in their addictive house-made belacan, which is also sold in bottles at the reception counter.

Durian Chendol in Coconut 3.5/5

Our first dessert was a tropical-themed Durian Chendol in Coconut ($18.80 per person). The base includes typical chendol ingredients such as atap chee, red beans, and pandan jelly, topped with coconut ice cream and D24 durian pulp. This rendition was more of a 'dry' chendol, with much less coconut milk and ice.

I ♥ SG Red Ruby with Coconut Pudding 2/5

Decked in our national colours, the I ♥ SG Red Ruby with Coconut Pudding ($8.90 for four pieces) was created to pay homage to Singapore and the upcoming National Day. Unfortunately, we found it slightly bland, and its texture was a tad too sticky.

To make reservations, visit the restaurant website at www.crystaljade.com/reservation.

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


Crystal Jade Palace
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
#04-19
391 Orchard Road
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 9017 5423
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 10.30am - 3.30pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight at Ngee Ann City until destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Chef Chan's Private Dine @ Scotts Road - Preserving Legacy, Crafting Excellence

Nestled within the premises of Indocafe along Scotts Road is Chef Chan Private Dine, spearheaded by Chef Wong Hong Loong, the skilled disciple of the renowned Chef Chan Chen Hei. While it might initially seem perplexing to name a restaurant after a chef not leading the kitchen, Chef Chan Chen Hei's prestigious legacy in the Chinese culinary realm justifies this choice. The restaurant promises a repertoire of Chef Chan's classic dishes, complemented by contemporary twists under the meticulous guidance of Chef Wong Hong Loong.

Abalone with Caviar / Maitake Mushroom "Kung Fu" Soup 4.2/5

We had the Dinner Set Menu by Loong Shi Fu, priced at $188+ per person, and the evening commenced with an amuse-bouche featuring Abalone with Caviar and a Maitake Mushroom "Kung Fu" Soup. The prized abalone, sweetened with caviar and immersed in the earthy essence of maitake mushroom, offered a tantalising prelude to the gastronomic feast.

Golden Morsels - Foie Gras with Shrimp Paste 3.8/5

Golden Morsels - Iberico Pork with Chive Dumpling 4/5

Golden Morsels - Marinated Quail Leg with Five Spices 4.2/5

The Golden Morsels trio followed, presenting a symphony of flavours. The Foie Gras with Shrimp Paste, boasting a crispy exterior, danced on the palate with a delightful medley of textures. Iberico Pork with Chive Dumplings showcased juicy dumplings infused with the essence of chives, while the Marinated Quail Leg with Five Spices provided a herbal and tender interlude.

Wellness Chicken Soup 5/5

The Wellness Chicken Soup emerged as a highlight, a potently brewed elixir resulting from a 12-hour simmer of whole chicken with ginseng. Served in a teapot and poured theatrically into individual bowls, the rich and flavoursome soup hinted at the essence of pure chicken essence.

Steamed Spotted Grouper with Homemade Tofu and Egg White 4/5

The Steamed Spotted Grouper, harmoniously paired with Homemade Tofu and Egg White, showcased the delicate flesh of the grouper enrobed in silky steamed egg white—an ode to the chef's artistry.

Poached Australian Cabbage with Double Boiled Chicken Broth 4.8/5

The Poached Australian Cabbage, immersed in Double-Boiled Chicken Broth, symbolising abundance and fortune, unfolded as a visual delight. The cabbage, served blooming at the table, captured the essence of softness and sweetness.

"Loong Shi Fu" Signature Crispy Sakura Chicken 5/5

An iconic Chef Chan's dish is the "Loong Shi Fu" Signature Crispy Sakura Chicken, which features paper-crisp skin, revealing tender and moist meat beneath. The impressive texture and flavour profile invoked the essence of a perfectly executed dish.

Wok-Fried Kway Teow with Seasonal Fresh Crab Gravy 4.2/5

The Wok-Fried Kway Teow with Seasonal Fresh Crab Gravy emerged as a stellar dish — a fusion of silky flat rice noodles infused with "Wok Hei" and adorned with a rich crab roe gravy, complemented by crispy noodle bits for an added crunch.

Chilled Supreme Bird's Nest with Rock Sugar 3.5/5

Rounding off the feast, the Chilled Supreme Bird's Nest with Rock Sugar provided a light and nourishing dessert. Additionally, Little Sweets comprising Mochi coated in peanut and Nian Gao with a thin crisp batter served as delightful petits fours.

Little Sweets 4/5

In conclusion, Chef Chan Private Dine masterfully preserves the legacy of Chef Chan Chen Hei, weaving traditional excellence with contemporary flair through Chef Wong Hong Loong's skilled hands. Each dish served unfolds as a symphony of flavours, a testament to the richness of Chinese gastronomy. The restaurant is not merely a dining establishment; it is a celebration of heritage, a gastronomic journey that intertwines the past and present in every exquisite bite. Chef Chan Private Dine undoubtedly holds a distinguished place in Singapore's vibrant F&B landscape.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chef Chan's Private Dine
(within INDOCFE - Peranakan Dining)
35 Scotts Road
Singapore 228227
Tel: +65 6737 0895
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Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 930pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. On Scotts Road, turn right and walk down Scotts Road towards Orchard Road direction. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Soaring Into a Prosperous Lunar New Year 2024 with Crystal Jade Group of Restaurants

As the vibrant Lunar New Year approaches, Crystal Jade Group, with its esteemed portfolio of 19 casual and fine dining outlets, stands ready to welcome the Year of the Dragon in grand style. Renowned for its culinary prowess, the group unveils an extraordinary line-up of dishes and set menus, promising a dining experience that is nothing short of exceptional.

Prosperity Yu Sheng with Boston Lobster Tail, Aburi Scallop & Fruit 4.8/5

Commencing the celebratory feast is the Prosperity Yu Sheng with Boston Lobster Tail, Aburi Scallop & Fruit ($138 small/ $208 large). This masterpiece is a symphony of flavours and textures, featuring fresh and dried fruits like juicy red dragon fruit, tangy green mango, sweet longan, pomelo sacs, dried apricot, and jackfruit. It creates a vivid and delectable medley with tomatoes, purple cabbage, cucumber, deep-fried yam strips, pickled onions, walnuts, and crunchy Hsin Chu bee hoon. Dressed with scallion oil and an Okinawa acerola juice-infused plum sauce, this yusheng is light, refreshing, and immensely appetising.

Available at Crystal Jade Palace, Crystal Jade Golden Palace and Crystal Jade Pavilion for dine-in and takeaway

Double-boiled Kampong Chicken with Fish Maw, Sea Whelk & Maitake Mushroom Soup 4.2/5

The Double-boiled Kampong Chicken with Fish Maw, Sea Whelk & Maitake Mushroom ($42.80 per person) is a heartwarming start to the feast—a bowl of nourishing soup brimming with rich flavours and wholesome ingredients.

Available at Crystal Jade Pavilion

Pan-fried South Africa Abalone with Assorted Mushroom & Crispy Leek 4/5

A highlight is the inventive Pan-fried South African Abalone with Assorted Mushrooms and Crispy Leek ($48 per person). The abalone, first steamed and then pan-seared, retains its inherent sweetness. Fragrant deep-fried leeks and mushrooms in an abalone liver sauce enhance the dish, offering a delightful twist on this Chinese New Year delicacy.

Available at Crystal Jade Golden Palace

Pan-fried Dace Fish Paste with Black Moss in Shunde Style 3.5/5

Nostalgia takes centre stage with the Pan-fried Dace Fish Paste with Black Moss in Shunde Style ($39.80 for a whole). This old-school classic involves meticulous preparation—removing fish flesh, mixing it with various ingredients, stuffing it back into the fish, and deep-frying to a golden brown. While a bit bony, it evokes a sense of tradition.

Available at Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen

Premium Loin Rib coated with Cointreau Orange Sauce 4.2/5

For a sumptuous treat, savour the Premium Loin Rib coated with Cointreau Orange Sauce ($42 regular). Fork-tender, tasty to the bone, and bathed in a luscious sauce intensified with orange-flavoured liqueur, this dish is a celebration of succulence.

Available at Crystal Jade Palace

Eight Treasure Vegetable wrapped in Beancurd Skin 4.8/5

A new festive takeaway highlight is the Eight Treasure Vegetable wrapped in Beancurd Skin ($29.80), a visually stunning centrepiece. This vegetarian delight features artfully arranged shiitake mushrooms, large dried scallops, lotus seeds, glass noodles, wood ear mushrooms, and black moss, braised in a luscious sauce that ties the dish together beautifully.

Dry La Mian with Prawn, Celtuce & Lobster Oil 3.5/5

Delight in the Dry La Mian with Prawn, Celtuce & Lobster Oil ($15.80 for a regular portion). Al dente noodle strands, slicked with homemade lobster oil, are crowned with a delectable combo of prawns and spring onions.

Available at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao

Green Tea, Tangerine Peel & Red Bean Ruyi Roll, Lava Kumquat Taro Puree Doughnut

Round off the feast with two delightful desserts. The Green Tea, Tangerine Peel & Red Bean Ruyi Roll ($10.80 for four pieces) presents a soft and pleasantly chewy jade-green glutinous rice flour roll enveloping smooth red bean paste accented with tangerine peel. Additionally, the Lava Kumquat Taro Purée Doughnut ($12.80 for four pieces) offers light and fluffy deep-fried balls filled with taro puree, elevated with a touch of kumquat zest.

Available at Crystal Jade Palace (Ruiy Roll), Crystal Jade Golden Palace (Doughnut)

Well-regarded for its impeccable cuisine and service, Crystal Jade offers something for every reunion, whether for a large gathering or an intimate celebration. Group Executive Chef Martin Foo and his team of chefs have meticulously crafted an extensive variety of delicious and auspicious specialities, ensuring that the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration is off to a roaring start. Takeaway goodies can be pre-ordered online at estore.crystaljade.com and outlets from December 5, 2023, to February 25, 2024. Pick up your orders from select outlets between January 19 and February 25, 2024.

Note: This is an invited tasting.

Min Jiang @ Goodwood Park - A Bountiful Feast to Usher in the Year of the Dragon

In the spirit of the Lunar New Year, Min Jiang at Goodwood Park Hotel beckons guests to a lavish feast celebrating the Year of the Dragon. The team at Goodwood Park Hotel have curated an impressive array of festive takeaways, sumptuous dine-in set menus, and delectable treats to usher in prosperity and good fortune.

Auspicious Abundance 'Lo Hei' - from Min Jiang Dempsey

We commenced with the Auspicious Abundance 'Lo Hei' from Min Jiang Dempsey. Priced at $298 for dine-in and $324.80 for takeaway, this Yu Sheng extravaganza features fresh lobster, salmon sashimi, tobiko, and abalone. Nestled amidst a kaleidoscope of greens, dragon fruit balls, and osmanthus jelly in the shape of ingots, it's a visual spectacle. Drizzled with plum sauce and fruit-based concoctions, it embodies both opulence and flavour.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup

One of the perennial highlights of any Lunar New Year celebration at Min Jiang is the exquisite soup that graces the table. This year, the culinary artisans at Min Jiang Dempsey have outdone themselves with the creation of the Double-boiled Chicken Soup with 6-head Abalones, Dragon Claw Fungus, and Dried Scallops in a Claypot—an elixir that transcends mere sustenance.

Braised Whole Spring Chicken, Whole Dace Fish and Sea Treasures in Pot.

A new addition to the festive lineup is the Braised Whole Spring Chicken, Whole Dace Fish stuffed with Liver Sausage & Black Moss, and Sea Treasures in Pot ($422.90). This dish features the distinct flavour of dace fish, celebrated in Cantonese cuisine. A rich sauce infused with aromatics complements whole abalone, dried oysters, shiitake mushrooms, fried fish maw, bean gluten, and 'Tientsin' cabbage.

Fortune Koi Fish 'Nian Gao' filled with Black Glutinous Rice

Adding a touch of sweetness to the celebrations is the Fortune Koi Fish 'Nian Gao' filled with Black Glutinous Rice ($52.80 for 8pc, Takeaway). Crafted in the shape of a Koi fish, symbolising good fortune, it presents a delightful twist with a filling of black glutinous rice.

Pandan Pineapple 'Huat' Tart

Inspired by timeless pineapple tarts, the Pandan Pineapple 'Huat' Tart is a delightful fusion of homemade pineapple chutney and pandan-flavoured almond cream encased in a crumbly tart crust. Topped with a lattice design and an auspicious white chocolate wealth pot or 發 (fa) topper, it's a treat for both the eyes and the palate.

Lucky Fortune Bamboo (Orange Pound Cake)

A centrepiece of every Lunar New Year gathering, the Lucky Fortune Bamboo ($148) pound cake steals the spotlight. Intricately crafted to emulate the lucky bamboo plant, this orange-infused pound cake, layered with orange zest and buttercream, is adorned with white chocolate bamboo stalks and ingots.

Dragon Boat of Bountiful Blessings (Marble Pound Cake)

The Dragon Boat of Bountiful Blessings (Marble Pound Cake) is a visual masterpiece. A decadent and moist butter cake, complemented by chocolate swirls, is encased within an artfully sculpted white chocolate 'dragon boat.' Adorned with dark chocolate ingots and gilded coins, it's a sight to behold and savour.

Auspicious Firecracker 'Mao Shan Wang' Durian Roll Cake

Lovers of durian are in for a treat with the Auspicious Firecracker 'Mao Shan Wang' Durian Roll Cake ($138). Luscious 'Mao Shan Wang' puree enveloped within a vibrant vermillion chiffon cake, adorned with chocolate pieces shaped as auspicious symbols, makes for a decadent and visually stunning dessert.

Card Privileges for Lunar New Year Takeaways. 20% off selected festive takeaways from 18 January to 4 February 2024, and 15% off selected festive takeaways from 5 to 24 February 2024 for Citi, DBS/POSB, HSBC, Maybank, OCBC and UOB Credit/Debit Cardmembers.

Guests may place their online orders at goodwoodparkfestive.oddle.me for delivery or self-collection. Alternatively, guests may contact Min Jiang岷江at (65) 6730 1704 / email: min_jiang@goodwoodparkhotel.com, Min Jiang at Dempsey 岷江在登布西山at (65) 6774 0122 / email: mjdempsey@goodwoodparkhotel.com, and The Deli at (65) 6730 1786 / email: deli@goodwoodparkhotel.com to place their takeaway orders for self-collection only. Availability for all Lunar New Year specials is from 18 January to 24 February 2024. Advance order of five days is required for takeaways and the last pre-order date is on 19 February 2024.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)