Anngel Thai Private Dining - A Homely Thai Feast with Bold, Comforting Flavours

Anngel Thai Private Dining is one of the newest additions to Singapore’s vibrant private dining scene. Helmed by the team behind the well-loved home-based business Anngel Thai Noodles, this new venture presents a multi-course Thai dining experience priced at $148 per pax. I was fortunate to secure a seat during its initial opening, and the evening unfolded with a well-paced progression of dishes that balanced familiar Thai flavours with creative interpretations.

Marinated Salmon with Seaweed, Rice and Thai Chilli Sauce 4/5

We began with Something Japanese, a playful appetiser that brings together Japanese elements with a Thai twist. The Marinated Salmon is meant to be wrapped with rice and seaweed, but it is the accompanying Thai chilli sauce that truly elevates the dish. Its tangy heat cuts through the richness of the salmon, adding a vibrant lift to each bite.

Duck Meat in Kueh Pie Tee Shell 3.5/5

Next was Something Nyonya, served in a crisp kueh pie tee shell filled with Shredded Duck tossed in a Thai-style sauce. While the textural contrast between the crunchy shell and tender duck was enjoyable, the sauce could have been more pronounced to better showcase the bold and punchy flavours typically associated with Thai cuisine.

Vegetable, Pork Crackling and Minced Pork Platter 4/5

The meal then moved into more robust territory with the Vegetable, Pork Crackling and Minced Pork Platter. The minced pork was deeply flavoured, carrying a delightful balance of spice and tang. Paired with fresh vegetables, the dish took on a communal, hands-on style of eating similar to Korean wraps. The pork crackling added a satisfying crunch, enhancing both texture and richness.

Braised Pig Trotter 5/5

A standout of the evening was the Braised Pig Trotter. The trotter was beautifully braised, absorbing the richness of the herb-laden sauce. The skin was gelatinous and soft, while the meat was so tender it fell off the bone effortlessly. Served alongside salted vegetables, braised eggs and mushrooms, it was a comforting dish that called for steamed white rice to soak up the savoury gravy.

Clams in Thai Red Curry 4.8/5

Another highlight was the Clams in Thai Red Curry. The clams were plump and juicy, cooked in a fragrant red curry that was rich yet well-balanced. It was a crowd-pleaser that had everyone going back for more, especially when paired with rice.

Prawn Soup with Fried Egg 5/5

The Prawn Soup with Fried Egg offered a unique and interactive element. We were first encouraged to taste the fried egg with baegu leaves on its own, appreciating its simplicity. When combined with the robust prawn soup, the flavours deepened, creating a more complex and umami-rich profile. The prawns were fresh and perfectly cooked, while the radish stood out for its natural sweetness and ability to absorb the broth.

Fried Fish in Sweet & Sour Sauce 4.5/5

The Fried Fish in Sweet & Sour Sauce was well executed, with chunky fillets lightly battered to achieve a crisp exterior while retaining a moist interior. The sweet and sour sauce brought a lively balance, complemented by crunchy cashew nuts and the tangy sweetness of pineapple.

Crab in Yellow Crab 4.5/5

Equally impressive was the Crab in Yellow Curry. The rich, aromatic yellow curry paired beautifully with the natural sweetness of the mud crab. It was an indulgent, hands-on dish that encouraged diners to dig in and savour every last bit of the sauce.

Coconut Shoot and Corn Salad 4.5/5

Interestingly, the savoury courses concluded with the Coconut Shoot and Corn Salad, a refreshing change from the usual sequence. The coconut shoot offered a unique crunchy texture, while the corn and strawberries contributed sweetness and tang. Tossed in a dressing reminiscent of Thai papaya salad, it provided a light and palate-cleansing finish to the savoury lineup.

Red Ruby, Lod Chong, Jackfruit in Coconut Milk 4.5/5

Dessert was Red Ruby, Lod Chong, Jackfruit in Coconut Milk, a classic Thai combination that was both sweet and refreshing. The chilled coconut milk and mix of textures made for a satisfying end to the meal after the richness of the earlier courses.

Overall, Anngel Thai Private Dining delivers a thoughtfully curated Thai dining experience that highlights bold flavours, comforting dishes and occasional creative touches. With several standout plates and an intimate setting, it is a promising addition to Singapore’s growing private dining scene.


Anngel Thai Private Dining
Jalan Rajah
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PUTIEN @ Westgate - Savour the Once-a-Year Duotou Clams at PUTIEN, Featuring New Bold Creations

Known for its authentic Fujian cuisine, PUTIEN once again celebrates the return of its highly anticipated seasonal delicacy, Duotou Clams, available across all outlets until 31 July 2026. Harvested only once a year at peak quality, these prized clams from Duotou Village in Putian, Fujian, are revered for their plump, juicy texture, natural sweetness, and a clean, mineral-rich finish that lingers delicately on the palate.

What truly sets Duotou Clams apart lies in their origin. Cultivated in nutrient-rich black mudflats formed over a millennium and nourished by higher-salinity waters, the clams develop a deeper, more concentrated flavour than regular varieties. Farmed using traditional methods that date back over 600 years and harvested painstakingly by hand, often buried up to 30cm beneath the surface, each clam embodies a legacy of patience, craftsmanship, and respect for nature.

Salt-baked Duotou Clam 4.2/5

A perennial favourite, the Salt-baked Duotou Clam ($29.80) continues to impress as PUTIEN's best-selling clam dish for nine consecutive years globally. Served atop a bed of coarse sea salt, the clams are gently baked to retain their natural juices, allowing their inherent sweetness to shine. The addition of aromatic Szechuan peppercorns introduces a subtle numbing fragrance that enhances rather than overpowers, lifting the overall flavour profile. Each bite delivers a satisfying burst of briny sweetness, complemented by the clam's signature plumpness and clean finish.

Duotou Clams in Sauce 4.5/5

A new addition to this year's lineup, the Duotou Clams in Sauce ($29.80) offers a bolder, more robust expression. Cloaked in a rich, spicy, and umami-laden sauce, the dish delivers a lingering heat with a gentle numbing sensation. The sauce clings beautifully to the clams, amplifying their sweetness while adding depth and complexity. It is a well-balanced creation that showcases PUTIEN's ability to innovate while respecting the ingredient's integrity.

Diners can also take advantage of the limited-time membership promotion, "8 Delectable Dishes, Feast on 2 at a Time!", where any two Duotou clam dishes are available at a special price of $48.80 — a great opportunity to sample different interpretations of this seasonal treasure.

Sweet & Sour Pork with Lychees 4.5/5

A signature that never disappoints, the Sweet & Sour Pork with Lychees ($17.80/ $26.70) remains a must-order. The dish stands out for its remarkable consistency, arguably one of the best renditions in Singapore. The pork is tender and succulent, encased in a light, crisp batter that holds up well against the glossy sauce. Real lychees lend a natural sweetness and fruity brightness, creating a harmonious balance with the sauce's tangy notes. It is an appetising dish that hits all the right notes without being overly cloying.

Braised Luffa with Dried Scallop 4.2/5

The Braised Luffa with Dried Scallop ($16.80/ $25.20) is a comforting, understated dish that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients done right. The luffa is tender and velvety, with a slight crunch that preserves its freshness, while its natural sweetness is gently coaxed out through braising. Shredded dried scallops (conpoy) infuse the light gravy with a deep, savoury umami, adding layers of flavour without overwhelming the palate. The result is a delicate yet flavourful dish that complements heavier items on the table.

Fried Heng Hwa Bee Hoon 4.5/5

The Fried Heng Hwa Bee Hoon ($14.80/ $29.60) showcases the finesse of PUTIEN's culinary roots. Made from Xinghua rice vermicelli sourced from Putian, the noodles are traditionally sun-dried, resulting in strands that are exceptionally fine, translucent, and resilient. Despite absorbing the savoury broth, the bee hoon retains a pleasing "al dente" bite without turning mushy. Lightly seasoned yet deeply flavourful, the dish carries a subtle rice fragrance that speaks to the purity and quality of the noodles.

With both classic and contemporary interpretations, PUTIEN's Duotou Clam season celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and ingredient-driven cooking. Available for a limited time only, it is a compelling reason to revisit the restaurant and savour one of Fujian's most treasured seasonal offerings.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


PUTIEN
Westgate
3 Gateway Drive
#03-08
Singapore 608532
Tel: +65 6254 8535
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm Fri-Sun: 1130am - 10pm

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

Dancing Crab @ Orchard Central - Introduces a Limited-Time $60 Combo Bag Bundle

Seafood feasts just got a lot more value-packed at Dancing Crab. Known for its lively American-style seafood boils and hands-on dining experience, the popular restaurant is rolling out a limited-time $60 Combo Bag Bundle that’s perfect for sharing. Available from now till 28 February, this deal lets diners enjoy a generous spread of seafood, sauces, sides and desserts. If you’ve been looking for an excuse to revisit Dancing Crab (or try it for the first time), this might just be it.

#2 Combo Bag 4/5

The #2 Combo Bag ($60++), ideal for 2–3 diners, comes loaded with a satisfying mix of fresh prawns, hamaguri clams, half-shell scallops, sweet corn and Arabiki chicken sausage. What makes the experience even better is the ability to choose three sauces from Dancing Crab’s signature range. We went with the World Famous Signature Cajun, White Pepper Cream, and the new Garlic Chilli Crisps Sauce.

Cocktail Shrimp Salad with Zesty Lemongrass Dressing 4/5

Truffle Fries 3.8/5

For sides, we picked the Cocktail Shrimp Salad with Zesty Lemongrass Dressing and Truffle Fries. The salad was a pleasant surprise - light, refreshing and packed with texture. The zesty lemongrass dressing cuts through the richness of the seafood, while the crunchy granola adds a satisfying bite. Honestly, this is one dish I wouldn’t mind having as a meal on its own. The Truffle Fries were enjoyable but slightly overshadowed by other sides later in the meal. There are stronger contenders on the menu.

Hokkaido Cheesecake Creme Brulee 3.8/5

For dessert, we opted for the Hokkaido Cheesecake Crème Brûlée, with the alternative being the Gâteau au Chocolate Cake. This dessert surprised us in a good way! Creamy, smooth and indulgent with a nicely torched top. It leans on the sweeter side; if the sweetness were toned down slightly, it would be close to perfect.

Crab Cakes 4/5

We also add on other dishes to our meal. The Crab Cakes ($26.80) are made with generous amounts of fresh crab meat and coated in a crisp panko crust. Each bite delivers a balanced mix of crab sweetness and exterior crunch. Well-executed and comforting, this is a safe yet satisfying order for crab lovers.

Lobster Roll 4/5

The Lobster Roll ($58.80) features chunky pieces of fresh Boston lobster tucked into a soft buttery bun. Sweet, juicy and indulgent, it’s a straightforward dish done right. But the real star here? The sweet potato fries on the side are crispy, addictive and far more memorable than the truffle fries. I’ll definitely be choosing these on my next visit.

Ultraviolet Berry Lemonade & Southern Iced Sweet Tea

To wash everything down, we tried the Ultraviolet Berry Lemonade ($5.80), made with freshly squeezed lemon juice and blue pea flower, and the Southern Iced Sweet Tea ($5.80), a refreshing blend of Earl Grey and English Breakfast tea topped with mint. Both drinks are light and refreshing and pair well with the heavier seafood dishes.

The $60 Combo Bag Bundle at Dancing Crab is a solid value, especially for those who enjoy variety and communal dining. With generous portions, flexible sauce choices and the inclusion of sides and desserts, it’s a well-rounded feast without breaking the bank. Available till 28 February for dine-in only, this deal is ideal for casual catch-ups, family meals, or a fun, messy seafood night out. If you’re a fan of bold flavours and hands-on dining, this is one promotion worth checking out before it ends.

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


Dancing Crab
Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road
#07-14/15
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6509 1878
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

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

MYX @ Chip Bee Garden - Soulful Comfort Food with a Playful Twist

MyX (pronounced “Mix”), the latest concept by Eleven Co. Group — the team behind MOXIE, SIRI HOUSE and CUDO — has found a cosy home in Chip Bee Gardens, Holland Village. Designed as a neighbourhood gathering spot, MyX blends soulful comfort food inspired by the American Coastal South and Latin America with a relaxed, community-driven vibe. The menu is built around sharing, bold flavours and creative reinterpretations, making it an inviting place to linger over food, drinks and conversation.

Artichoke Dip 4.2/5

We started with the Artichoke Dip ($15), a deceptively indulgent yet straightforward opener. A lush blend of cream cheese, ricotta and parmesan is enriched with truffle paste and truffle oil, giving it a deep, earthy aroma. The marinated artichokes add a gentle tang, while the fried Jerusalem artichokes bring a satisfying crunch. Finished with dill, it is comfort food at its most addictive, especially when scooped generously.

Salmon Tiradito 4.2/5

The Salmon Tiradito ($25) impressed with its layered flavours and finesse. The salmon is brined, brushed with shoyu and lightly torched, lending it a subtle smokiness. The dressing — a complex mix of lime juice, citron vinegar, hot pepper sauce, housemade adobo paste, guajillo chilli paste, agave syrup and white shoyu — strikes a delicate balance between acidity, sweetness and heat. Pickled daikon adds freshness, while harissa mayo, balsamic glaze and fried capers elevate the dish with richness and pops of umami.

Red Prawn Ceviche 4.5/5

Another standout cold dish was the Red Prawn Ceviche ($23). Lightly blanched local Anka prawns are paired with a chilled tomato-based sauce made from charred beef tomatoes, red bell peppers, red onions, habanero and garlic, blended with paprika, Clamato juice, red wine vinegar and beet juice. Seasoned with Cantonese prawn powder and sakura ebi oil, the ceviche delivers depth and savouriness, while crispy sakura ebi, pickled cucumber and watermelon radish add texture and contrast.

Venus Clams 4.2/5

Moving on to warm plates, the Venus Clams ($19) offered comforting indulgence. Bathed in a creamy sauce of nduja, housemade garlic confit, soju, and cream, the clams are further enhanced with smoky chipotle oil. Served with a garlic butter griddled baguette, this dish is made for mopping up every last drop of the rich, flavour-packed sauce.

Grilled Iberico Pork 4.2/5

For mains, the Grilled Iberico Pork ($38) is a confident highlight. The pork secreto is marinated overnight in citrus juices, aromatics and Mexican beer, resulting in tender, juicy meat. Lacquered with chipotle aioli and torched upon ordering, it carries a gentle smokiness. Accompaniments such as arugula, pickled plum, burnt red onion purée and a Thai-style toasted rice dressing add layers of acidity, nuttiness and spice, making each bite dynamic and well-balanced.

Dirrrty Chicken Rice 4.2/5

The Dirrrty Chicken Rice ($32) is MyX’s playful take on a Southern classic with familiar comfort at its core. The chicken, marinated overnight with a robust spice blend and citrus, is roasted till flavourful and succulent. It is paired with dirty rice sautéed with onions, red bell peppers, chorizo, confit garlic, Southern spices and adobo paste, then steeped in chicken stock. Hearty and deeply satisfying, this dish bridges bold Southern flavours with comforting familiarity.

Yuanyang Tres Leches 4.2/5

Desserts rounded off the meal on a high note. The Yuanyang Tres Leches ($14) is a clever hybrid of tiramisu, yuanyang and tres leches. A light sponge soaked in black tea, espresso, condensed milk, evaporated milk, cream and cocoa is rich yet not cloying, topped with vanilla-infused mascarpone and served with raspberries for a refreshing lift.

Kaffir Lime Panna Cotta 4.2/5

The Kaffir Lime Panna Cotta ($14) offers a lighter finish, with a softly set Greek yoghurt panna cotta infused with kaffir lime and lime juice. The brown butter crumble adds nuttiness, while the cherry compote introduces gentle sweetness and acidity.

Overall, MyX delivers soulful comfort food with creativity and confidence, backed by thoughtful execution and bold flavour combinations. With its inviting atmosphere, shareable plates and playful spirit, it is a welcome addition to Holland Village — a spot that encourages gathering, sharing and returning for more.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Myx
44 Jalan Merah Saga
#01-46
Singapore 278116
Tel: +65 94871552
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 11am - 10pm
Fri: 11am - 11pm
Sat: 1030am - 11pm
Sun: 1030am - 9pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and cut across the carpark to Jalan Merah Saga. Turn left at Jalan Merah Saga. Walk to the destination. [Map]

The Drunken Chef Private Dining - Affordable Home Private Dining with Comforting Chinese Classics

The Drunken Chef by Sherine Chua is one of the newest additions to the home private dining scene, offering a Chinese cuisine menu at $98 per pax, making it one of the most affordable options currently available. The experience focuses on comforting, well-executed dishes that feel familiar yet thoughtfully prepared, making it ideal for intimate gatherings and family-style celebrations.

We started with the Marinated Tomatoes, a refreshing opener that delivered a pleasant balance of sweetness and tanginess. Light and appetising, it gently whetted our appetite and set the tone nicely for the upcoming feast.

Braised Beef Shin & Tripe 4.5/5

One of the highlights was the Braised Beef Shin & Tripe. Both components were well infused with the rich braising sauce. The beef shin was tender and flavourful, while the tripe retained a delightful chewy bite. A gentle hint of spiciness helped lift the overall flavour profile, making this a satisfying and robust dish to start the meal.

Drunken Chicken 4/5

The Drunken Chicken was tender and well-cooked, though it felt slightly restrained in terms of the Chinese wine aroma and flavour. A more generous hand with the alcohol could have elevated the dish further, giving it the signature fragrance that drunken chicken lovers would expect.

Kam Heong Clams 5/5

The Kam Heong Clams stood out with their bold aromatics. The sweet and juicy clams were beautifully coated in a fragrant, punchy sauce that paired exceptionally well with rice. The sauce was so addictive that it was impossible not to drizzle it generously over our bowls, savouring every last drop.

Sio Bak 4.8/5

A clear crowd favourite at the table was the Sio Bak. It had been a while since I encountered this style of roast pork, featuring an addictive, crispy, almost biscuity skin. It immediately brought to mind the roasting technique of 88 Hong Kong Roast Meat Specialist, delivering both nostalgia and satisfaction with every bite.

Cai Poh Steamed Snapper 4.5/5

The Cai Poh Steamed Snapper was simply and skilfully executed. Steamed to perfection, the fish remained moist and tender, while the preserved radish and soy sauce enhanced and highlighted the natural sweetness of the fish meat without overpowering it.

Kai Shui Bai Cai 4.2/5

At first glance, the Kai Shui Bai Cai may look humble and unassuming, but simple dishes often require the most finesse. This was done excellently — clean, light, and delicious, allowing the vegetable's natural sweetness to shine through.

Seafood Pao Fan 4.5/5

The undeniable highlight of the dinner was the Seafood Pao Fan. Even before it arrived at the table, the rich crustacean aroma wafted out from the kitchen. Once served, the fragrance intensified, drawing everyone in. The robust seafood flavours paired with fluffy rice created a dish that was both hearty and deeply comforting, making it a memorable centrepiece of the meal.

Gui Hua Gao 4.2/5

To end on a sweet note, we were served Gui Hua Gao (Osmanthus Jelly). The gentle sweetness and floral fragrance of osmanthus were complemented by crunchy chestnuts and wolfberries, offering a light yet satisfying conclusion to the meal.

Overall, The Drunken Chef by Sherine Chua delivers a value-driven home private dining experience with comforting Chinese dishes that resonate with warmth and familiarity. At $98 per pax, it presents an accessible entry point into the private dining scene, especially for those seeking honest flavours and a hearty communal dining experience.


The Drunken Chef Private Dining
Dover Parkview
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)