Nong Geng Ji (农耕记 ) @ Orchard Gateway - Popular Hunanese Restaurant Opens New Outlet inthe Heart of Orchard Road

Hunanese restaurant Nong Geng Ji (农耕记) has quickly gained popularity since opening its flagship outlet at Collyer Quay late last year.

Its fifth new location in the basement of Orchard Gateway provides a spacious and welcoming setting, ideal for group gatherings. The restaurant also features a membership programme offering special discounted prices for nearly all dishes (indicated by ‘MP’ on the menu), excluding steamed rice and beverages.

Pan-seared Green Chilies with Century Egg 4.2/5

We began with the Pan-seared Green Chilies with Century Egg (MP $10.80, U.P $13.80), a unique chilled appetiser served in a mortar. Diners can opt to pound it themselves or have the staff assist. The dish was a delight with its creamy century eggs paired with smoky green chillies that carried just the right amount of heat.

Stir-fried Pork with Abalone and Chilli 4/5

Next was the Stir-fried Pork with Abalone and Chilli (MP $25.80, U.P $28.80), a creative combination of baby abalones, sliced pork, Hunan green peppers, and crunchy white fungus. While the dish had a fun variety of textures, we wished the green pepper flavours were more prominent.

Stir-fried Cauliflower 4.2/5

The simple looking Stir-fried Cauliflower (MP $13.80, U.P $16.80) was executed well. It was garlicky and seasoned just right.

Big Shrimp with Vermicelli and Garlic 4.2/5

Served on a portable gas stove, the Big Shrimp with Vermicelli and Garlic (MP $19.80, U.P $22.80) was precisely timed until it was ready to be eaten. The vermicelli thoroughly soaked up the garlicky and savoury sauce.

Sauerkraut Fish with Soup 3.8/5

The Sauerkraut Fish with Soup (MP $25.80, U.P $28.80) fell short for us. The broth leaned on the saltier side, and though the fish slices were fresh, the number of bones made it less enjoyable.

Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth 4.2/5

Our second soup was the Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth (MP $21.80, U.P $25.80). This was so homely and comforting that we wiped the bowl clean quickly. It also helped to cut the spice from the rest of the dishes.

Dry Pot Pork Intestine with Sauerkraut 4/5

Lastly, we tried the Dry Pot Pork Intestine with Sauerkraut (MP $21.80, U.P $24.80). Those who appreciate fattier cuts of pork intestine would enjoy this that has a blend of spicy and tangy notes from the sauerkraut.

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.


Nong Geng Ji (农耕记)
Orchardgateway
#B1-13
277 Orchard Road
Singapore 238858
Tel: +65 6908 0153
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS, Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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

Little Pond 小鱼塘 @ Holland Village - Sauerkraut Fish Hotpot and Prawn Pot Restaurant with Unlimited Drinks, Ice Cream and Condiments at $1/Pax

I’ve been curious about Little Pond (小鱼塘) after visiting the relatively new One Holland Village. The Chinese restaurant sits on the second floor, just next to Lau Wang Claypot.

The restaurant was filled with a constant stream of diners on a weekday night. Little Pond specialises in Golden Sauerkraut Fish (酸菜鱼) and Fried Prawn dishes available in different flavours.

For $1 per person, you get unlimited drinks, ice cream, condiments, and sauces.

A special mention to their drinks - apart from the typical sweet cold beverages, they offer healthier customisable drinks using a range of tea ingredients, such as Jasmine Tea, Rock Sugar, Chrysanthemum Flowers, and more.

Golden Sauerkraut Fish 4/5

What differentiates Little Pond from other sauerkraut fish places is that their Golden Sauerkraut Fish ($39.90 for Small) can be enjoyed like a steamboat! After having the fish, you can opt for additional sides to cook in the soup afterwards.

The induction stove in the middle of each table will help keep your pot bubbling hot, and the service staff will assist in adding more broth along the way. While it may not be the best sauerkraut fish we've had, we liked the freshness and texture of the fish slices. We found it pretty value for money too. By default, the pot comes with slices of snakehead fish, cabbage, enoki mushrooms and tofu puffs. Note that the broth can get quite salty, especially after you've added additional ingredients.

For our ‘steamboat ingredients’, we had Sliced Chestnut Pork Neck Roll ($8.50), Mashed Shrimp Meat Paste ($7), 6 Sec Seaweed ($5), Cheerful Farm ($12), and Sweet Potato Noodle ($3.80).

I would skip the Sweet Potato Noodle next time, as the type they use disintegrates too quickly for my liking.

Signature Fragrant Spicy Prawn 4/5

Moving on to their Signature Fragrant Spicy Prawn ($49.90 for Small), it was a pity that even though the prawns were sizable and meaty, we found them overcooked. The prawn pot was a lot more oily but had good heat. It came with a bed of ingredients such as konjac, corn cobs, potato strips, lotus root, and more.

Cold Mixed Shredded Vegetables 4.2/5

If you're coming in a bigger group, try their starters too. We particularly enjoyed the Cold-Mixed Shredded Vegetables ($8) and Cold-Mixed Tofu and Dried Moss Vege ($6). The former had a mix of kelp, carrot, beancurd skin, peanuts, and more in a tangy seasoning.

Cold Mixed Tofu & Dried Moss Vege 4.2/5

On the other hand, the Cold Mixed Tofu & Dried Moss Vege ($6) had crunchy dried moss vegetables and slices of beancurd in a mild dressing.

Orlean Chicken Skewers 4/5

We also had the Orlean Chicken Skewers ($3.90 for 2 Sticks), which were seasoned well but slightly pricey.

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.


Little Pond
One Holland Village
#02-32
7 Holland Village Way
Singapore 275748
Tel: +65 8013 2050
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Lorong Liput. Turn right onto Lorong Liput. Walk down Lorong Liput. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sichuan Alley @ Capitol Singapore - Dive into Contemporary Sichuanese Cuisine at Sichuan Alley’s Second Outlet in Singapore

New in Capitol Singapore is Sichuan Alley, whose flagship branch is situated at Telok Ayer. It's most known for its signature Mian Yang Rice Noodle offerings, which has yet to be found at any other local restaurants.

Here, diners can explore authentic and contemporary Sichuanese items alongside a range of unique Sichuan-inspired beverages. Flavours are rich, bold and authentic. Their interior was lovely, exuding warm and cosy vibes, perfect for big and small gatherings.

Sichuan-inspired Beverages

We took some time to look through their fun and fresh beverage list before deciding on the Cold Brew Yuzu Chrysanthemum Tea ($5.90), the Bamboo Breeze ($16) cocktail made from gin, bamboo green tea, pineapple, peach and jasmine, and the Osmanthus Rice Wine ($16).

Osmanthus Rice Wine

Our favourite among the three was the fragrant and mellowly sweet Osmanthus Rice Wine.

Mini Hotpot 4.2/5

We delved into the world of Sichuan flavours with their Mini Hotpot 成都冒菜 ($14). While it leaned on the oily side, we loved how all the ingredients nicely soaked up the spices and tingling numbness.

This was especially so for the crunchy slices of potato and celtuce, alongside prawns, black fungus, bean sprouts and cauliflower.

Yu Xiang Shredded Pork 4/5

The Yu Xiang Shredded Pork 鱼香肉丝 ($7.90) is made up of strips of tender pork, strips of celtuce and carrot, and black fungus. It's pretty appetising but a little sweeter than I'd prefer. A vegetarian version of this dish is also available.

Fried Chicken 4.5/5

I liked how Sichuan Alley's Fried Chicken 辣子鸡 ($16) is boneless, making it much more convenient to enjoy. They use chicken thighs fried to a crunch, mixed with cashew nuts, leek and addictive bits of fried garlic.

Sichuan Sour Vegetable Fish 4.5/5

By default, the Sichuan Sour Vegetable Fish 老坛酸菜鱼 ($19) comes with a number of ingredients, including sweet potato noodles, black fungus and my favourite crunchy celtuce. Though a touch oily, the sourness and spiciness were well-balanced, and the fish slices were tender.

Braised Pig Intestines with Tofu 4.8/5

If you're a fan of both mala flavours and pork intestines, the Braised Pig Intestines with Tofu 鲜豆花烧肥肠 ($17.30) will be up your alley. The fattier intestines are cleaned well, thoroughly soaking up all that lip-smacking spice. We liked how the flavour of the intestines permeates in the gravy and the soft beancurd as well. Get a bowl of white rice to accompany it, and you're good to go!

King Prawns with Vine Pepper Rice Noodle 4.2/5

Sichuan Alley's signature Mian Yang rice noodles are featured in their range of mains. We opted for the King Prawns with Vine Pepper Rice Noodle 藤椒大虾米粉 ($15.50), which is by default spicy, but there are several others, such as Braised Beef Rice Noodle and Braised Pork Ribs Rice Noodle which you can opt for in your preferred level of spice. You can imagine the rice noodles to be like mee sua, but just a bit thicker with a slight more chew. The deceptively clear vine pepper broth was tangy and comforting with its accompanying heat.

Speciality Ice Jelly 4.2/5

Our first dessert was the classic Speciality Ice Jelly 雪山红糖冰粉 ($5.50), featuring red beans, hawthorn, peanuts, rice balls, almond flakes and raisins on ice jelly with brown sugar. It had lots of texture and was refreshing.

Sweet Fermented Rice 4.2/5

I preferred the Sweet Fermented Rice 巷子桂花粉子醪糟 ($4.50) between both desserts even though it looks simpler. The bits of Osmanthus brought a lovely mild fragrance to the fermented rice, with soft glutinous rice balls.

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.


Sichuan Alley
13 Stamford Road
#B1-29/30
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 9155 5244
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 930pm

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

YAO YAO (姚姚酸菜鱼) @ Vivocity - China Suan Cai Yu Restaurant’s Debut in Singapore with Duo Flavour Pots and Roast Duck

YAO YAO 姚姚酸菜鱼 has recently established its flagship outlet in Vivocity, joining the expanding array of Chinese brands dedicated to fish-based dishes. Having earned the title "Top Ten Brands of Sauerkraut Fish" from 2019 to 2022 in China, it boasts an impressive network of 60 outlets nationwide.

YAO YAO features California White Seabass in their signature Suan Cai Yu/Sauerkraut Fish. The menu offers various portion sizes and duo-pots that provide diners the choice to pair the Suan Cai Yu with one of three dishes: Sichuan Poached Fish, Tomato Fish, and Typhoon Shelter Shrimp with Fries.

Sour & Spicy Organic White Fungus 4/5

I started with appetisers; it was my first time trying white fungus prepared this way. YAO YAO's Sour & Spicy Organic White Fungus ($9) is served chilled and crunchy, with its shell-shaped pieces picking up the appetising sauce well.

Chilled Lettuce with Sesame Sauce 3.8/5

Thoughtfully presented, the Chilled Lettuce with Sesame Sauce ($10) has lettuce leaves neatly bundled alongside a small pitcher of sesame sauce. I appreciated the convenience of enjoying this dish and found it both crunchy and refreshing, albeit it was much more on the pricey side.

Garlic and Sichuan Pepper Duck Leg 3.8/5

Fried in a generous portion of garlic and Sichuan pepper, each piece of the Garlic and Sichuan Pepper Duck Leg carried excellent heat and crisp bits, but it's worth noting that these are meant to be a lot more bony than meaty.

Sichuan Spicy Poached Chicken 3.5/5

The Sichuan Spicy Poached Chicken ($12) presented a somewhat monotonous flavour profile, and the meat texture was a bit stringy.

Sauerkraut Fish & Typhoon Shelter Shrimp with Fries 3/5

We got to try one of the duo flavour pots, the Sauerkraut Fish & Typhoon Shelter Shrimp with Fries ($53), which feeds 2 pax. In the sauerkraut fish-half, you will find sliced California White Seabass with fermented sauerkraut in a slow-cooked broth.

While the sauerkraut was decent, the broth was more muted and lacked depth. It leaned towards being mostly sour, and we were not quite a fan of how thinly sliced the fish were. I definitely wished the fish were fresher too.

Sauerkraut Fish & Typhoon Shelter Shrimp with Fries 3/5

Although we appreciated the punchy seasoning on the Typhoon Shelter Shrimp and crinkle-cut fries, the prawns were not the freshest. A more significant portion would also have been more justifying of the price tag.

XXL Crispy You Tiao 3/5

While the XXL Crispy You Tiao ($5) looked impressive in size, its taste was less memorable. Despite the recommendation to dip these pieces in the sauerkraut broth, the experience was less enjoyable due to the greasiness.

YAO YAO Peking Duck, Half 3.5/5

Yao Yao Peking Duck ($45 for Half) was a dish we saw many other diners order. It is served with egg crepe wraps and strips of onions, cucumber and sweet honeydew. Finish your wrap with a housemade sesame mustard dip or housemade sweet sauce.

For a bigger group, you can consider the Duck (Whole) at $90.

Rainbow Cold Jelly 4/5

The Rainbow Cold Jelly ($8) served as a chilled and sweet ending to our meal. The base of housemade oolong tea-flavoured jelly is topped with many ingredients, including raisins, red beans, hawthorn bits, crushed peanuts, pearl barley and pearls. You can have it as it is or with coconut milk drizzled over. I personally found it quite sweet, but we saw many diners of younger age enjoying this.

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.


YAO YAO 姚姚酸菜鱼
Vivocity
#02-145/146
1 HarbourFront Walk
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 6970 8998
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm

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