Tembusu @ Singapore Botanic Garden - Borderless Straits Flavours in the Ginger Garden

Nestled in the lush greenery of the Singapore Botanic Gardens’ Ginger Garden, Tembusu is the latest dining destination by Fleursophy Group, bringing a contemporary take on Singapore and Southeast Asia’s familiar flavours to an elegant, tropical setting.

Named after Singapore’s iconic heritage tree, Tembusu is an air-conditioned sanctuary where diners can escape the heat while staying connected to the surrounding gardens. The space embraces what the restaurant calls “Straits Maximalism”, with rich colours, intricate details and a sense of tropical opulence that complements its location. It is also a pet-friendly indoor concept, making it a welcoming spot for diners looking for a more relaxed dining experience with their furry companions.

Stuffed Chicken Wings 4.2/5

We started with the Stuffed Chicken Wings ($18), served as a set of three. Each chicken wing is meticulously deboned, then generously packed with a rich, savoury fresh prawn paste farce. The preparation sets it apart from the more familiar har cheong gai, where prawn paste chicken is typically battered and deep-fried. Here, the wings are grilled instead, allowing the chicken skin to pick up a lovely smoky char while keeping the meat juicy and succulent. The chicken’s natural sweetness comes through alongside the savoury, bouncy prawn filling, creating a combination that is both familiar and distinctly different. It is served with a vibrant housemade Hainanese-style chilli sauce, bringing a bright, spicy and tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the prawn farce. A well-executed starter that gives a local favourite a more refined treatment.

Signature Otak Otak Slider 4.2/5

The Signature Otak Otak Slider ($18) is another clever take on a familiar Southeast Asian street food favourite. The bite-sized sliders feature a housemade seafood patty made with batang fish and tiger prawns, rather than relying solely on the usual fish paste. The combination gives the otak-otak a meatier texture, with the juicy tiger prawns adding extra sweetness and bite. The seafood patty carries the characteristic smoky and aromatic spice profile of otak-otak and is tucked into a beautifully toasted brioche bun. A fragrant kaffir lime aioli adds a creamy, citrusy note that balances the spices while lifting each bite. The contrast between the rich, spiced seafood patty, buttery brioche and bright kaffir lime aioli makes this an easy-to-eat yet thoughtfully constructed starter.

Kopi C Hot / Kopi C Cold 4/5

To go with our brunch, we also had the traditional Kopi C, available hot for $5.90 or cold for $6.90. The coffee beans are sourced from the Gia Lai Highlands in Vietnam and roasted in Singapore by Generation Coffee Roasters. It offers a familiar local coffee experience while fitting comfortably into Tembusu’s modern interpretation of Singaporean flavours.

Singapore Chilli Crab Pasta 4/5

The Singapore Chilli Crab Pasta ($27) brings one of Singapore’s most iconic dishes into a pasta format, combining al dente rigatoni with soft-shell crab, blue swimmer crab and a sous vide egg. The rigatoni is thoroughly coated in a thick, rich housemade chilli crab sauce, with the slow-cooked sauce delivering the familiar sweet, savoury and spicy characteristics of Singapore-style chilli crab. The sauce has enough intensity to cling to the pasta without overwhelming it. A whole, crispy, deep-fried soft-shell crab sits on top, adding a satisfying crunch and a generous seafood element. The sous vide egg adds another layer of richness, with the silky yolk blending into the chilli crab sauce to create an even more luxurious finish. This playful interpretation should appeal to those who enjoy seeing familiar Singaporean flavours translated into contemporary dishes.

Andaman Prawn Risotto 4.2/5

The Andaman Prawn Risotto ($32) takes a decidedly more indulgent approach, with creamy risotto cooked in an intensely flavoured lobster bisque and topped with plump Andaman sea prawns and crispy sakura ebi. The rice absorbs the lobster bisque during cooking, resulting in grains packed with deep, velvety seafood flavour. Natural shellfish sweetness runs through the dish, giving it a luxurious, comforting quality. Crunchy sweet corn kernels are incorporated into the risotto, adding little pops of sweetness and texture that cut through the bisque’s richness. On top, the Andaman prawns are plump and well-cooked, while the scattering of crispy sakura ebi adds another layer of savoury seafood flavour and crunch. Among the mains, this was one of the more memorable dishes for us, particularly for its depth of seafood flavour and contrasting textures.

Signature Grand Dessert Bowl 3.5/5

For dessert, the Signature Grand Dessert Bowl ($13.90) is Tembusu’s take on the traditional Chinese Tong Sui. The eight-treasure fresh milk dessert soup comes loaded with herbal jelly, red bean, peach gum, lotus seeds, taro balls, osmanthus and water chestnut, bringing together a variety of textures and flavours in one bowl. The housemade taro balls have a pleasant chewiness, while the peach gum contributes its naturally gelatinous texture. Soft red beans provide an earthy sweetness, complemented by the floral fragrance of osmanthus and the subtle crunch of water chestnut. This comforting dessert offers plenty of ingredients to explore, with a lighter, more traditional finish after the richer mains.

Pink Guava Snow Ice 3.5/5

The Pink Guava Snow Ice ($12.90) offers a more refreshing finish with its fine, fluffy and almost cloud-like snow ice. Unlike conventional crushed ice, the ice is infused with pink guava flavour, creating a smoother texture that melts almost instantly on the tongue. The guava delivers a pleasant fruity sweetness balanced by a mild tartness, keeping the dessert refreshing rather than overly sugary. The natural acidity works particularly well as a palate cleanser after the richer seafood dishes, making this a good option for those looking for something light and fruity to finish.

Tembusu brings together Singapore’s familiar flavours with a contemporary approach, presenting Malay, Peranakan, Chinese and wider Southeast Asian influences in a setting that feels very much at home within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Beyond the food, the lush Ginger Garden surroundings and air-conditioned, pet-friendly interior give Tembusu an appealing point of difference. It is a destination where the tropical setting, heritage-inspired flavours and contemporary dining experience come together naturally.


Tembusu
Ginger Garden
Singapore Botanic Gardens
1 Cluny Road
Singapore 259569
Tel: +65 8988 6658
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT Station. Take Exit 1. Walk to Cluny Road. Cross the road and walk to Singapore Botanic Gardens. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Coexist Coffee Co. @ Pasir Panjang Road - New Third Outlet In The Rather Off-The-Beaten-Path Part of Singapore

Coexist Coffee Co. has opened its third outlet along Pasir Panjang Road, bringing its signature speciality coffees and hearty brunch offerings to this rather off-the-beaten-path part of Singapore. When I first walked into its minimalist space, what immediately caught my attention was its sheer spaciousness. It was indeed a much-needed retreat from the surrounding traffic and industrial density.

The food menu is well-curated, featuring a hearty selection spanning Brunch, Mains, Pastas, and Desserts. We tried two brunch items, both of which checked all the boxes of what makes a satisfying brunch.

Smoked Salmon Toast 4.8/5

The Smoked Salmon Toast ($20, +$4 for scrambled eggs) came generously topped with ribbons of smoked salmon, drizzled with dill yoghurt, on sourdough toast. With such a hearty serving of salmon, the toast's thickness provided a good balance, though a touch more dill yoghurt would have helped round out the flavours and mouthfeel. The scrambled eggs were delightfully rich and buttery.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich 4/5

The Grilled Cheese Sandwich ($20) with Tomato Soup reminded me of a version I once had in Bali, and I was pleasantly surprised to find it here as well. Between two slices of sourdough was a gooey mix of Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, and Mozzarella, offering a nice complexity of flavours. The accompanying tomato soup was delectable, though it could use a bit more savouriness and punch. The herbed potatoes were fluffy inside with a crisp skin, and I appreciated that both dishes came with a well portioned mesclun salad.

Carrot Cake Fries 3.8/5

For something to share, one of the popular finger foods here is the Carrot Cake Fries ($12). I considered them the level-up old-school carrot cake sticks. Each stick was battered and fried, then topped with sambal mayo and dehydrated chye poh.

Burnt Butter Toast 5/5

Burnt Butter Toast ($10), found under the Dessert section, was a delightful standout, but it is, in fact, wholesome and delicious enough to join the rest as a main brunch item. The toasted brioche had a beautifully caramelised crust, while the inside stayed soft and fluffy. The blueberry compote tasted homemade — plump and juicy, just lightly sweetened to complement the natural tartness — and the cream tied everything together perfectly. A simple dish, done exceptionally well.

Piccolo, Coconut Cold Brew

The coffee menu is extensive, offering both familiar classics and creative house specials. I had a double shot Piccolo and a Coconut Cold Brew ($7), the latter featuring a 12-hour cold brew mixed with coconut water. The piccolo, even with an extra shot, remained smooth and easy to drink. The cold brew, meanwhile, was refreshingly light, a great alternative to sweetened black coffee.

Coexist Coffee Co. has not only brought its speciality coffees and wholesome food to the Pasir Panjang quartier, but also created a welcoming space where one can truly linger.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Coexist Coffee Co.
122 Pasir Panjang Road
Singapore 118544
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Nearest MRT: Pasir Panjang (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 5pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Pasir Panjang MRT Station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Turn right on Pasir Panjang Road. Walk down Pasir Panjang Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Chef X @ Clarke Quay Central - Marks Its First Anniversary with New Residency by MasterChef Duo and MissTamChiak Collaboration

To mark its first anniversary, Chef X at Clarke Quay welcomes a fresh new residency by MasterChef Singapore alumni Chef Nicholas Koh and Chef Leon Lim, the dynamic duo behind Kaya Rebel. Running from 3 June to 26 July 2025, the residency showcases their creative reimagination of kaya, Singapore’s beloved coconut jam. In addition, to celebrate the milestone, Kaya Rebel has teamed up with renowned food personality Maureen Ow (@MissTamChiak) to launch an exclusive Mango Kaya flavour and dish, available from 9 June to 5 July 2025.

Kaya Selections 4/5

Kaya Rebel presents three unique kaya flavours: Pandan, Earl Grey, and Okinawa Brown Sugar. Each offers a distinct profile to suit different palates, with the Earl Grey surprising with its floral notes and the Okinawa Brown Sugar adding deep caramel richness. What stands out is the kaya's custard-like texture, a departure from the more gelatinous local versions. Best enjoyed with toast, croissants, or biscuits, the kaya delivers comfort with a contemporary flair.

All-Day Kaya Breakfast Plate 2.5/5

Priced at $18 (Classic) or $24 (Deluxe), the Breakfast Plate includes a choice of kaya flavour, bread, eggs (any style), mesclun salad, protein, and a side. While it's a complete plate, the concept is too simple for its price tag, and some diners may feel that the components can be easily replicated at home. A more creative twist might elevate its value.

Iced Cloud Coffee 4/5

Perfect for pairing with breakfast items, the Iced Cloud Coffee ($7) is smooth and refreshing, topped with a creamy milk foam that adds body and visual appeal. It's a solid, satisfying beverage that complements the sweet and savoury flavours on the menu.

Mango Kaya Sticky Rice 4/5

A celebratory collaboration with MissTamChiak, this playful dessert reinvents the traditional Thai mango sticky rice. Here, the pairing of Mango Kaya with Sticky Rice results in a surprisingly bold and modern reinterpretation that delivers nostalgia with a twist. Available for a limited time at $8 nett, this is one not to miss.

Kaya Tart 3.8/5

The Kaya Tart ($8 nett) features kaya custard nestled in a buttery shortcrust base adorned with assorted toppings. While it's beautifully presented and texturally satisfying, some might find the kaya flavour slightly subdued compared to the standalone spreads.

Kaya Creme Brulee 3.5/5

Kaya Creme Brulee, the pandan-infused custard dessert topped with a crackling sugar crust, offers a nod to French technique while staying rooted in local flavour. At $8 nett, it's fun and Instagrammable, although it may not leave a lasting impression in terms of taste.

For those who fall in love with the kaya, Kaya Rebel’s bottled flavours are available for purchase during the residency. Housed in sleek, minimalist jars reminiscent of high-end skincare packaging, they make for a chic and tasty souvenir.

Kaya Rebel at Chef X delivers a commendable effort in reimagining kaya beyond tradition. While some dishes are more conceptual than essential, the innovation and passion behind the residency shine through. Whether you're a kaya purist or curious to explore its modern interpretations, this residency is worth a visit—especially for the limited-edition Mango Kaya creations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chef X
Clarke Quay Central
6 Eu Tong Sen Street
#03-103/104
Singapore 059817
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 830am - 430pm
Fri-Sat: 830am - 930pm
(Closed on Sun & Mon)

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

Momolato @ North Bridge Road - New Halal Dessert Cafe with Gelato, Kunafa Waffle and Savoury Options

Momolato, a halal-certified dessert cafe, has opened its second outlet on North Bridge Road following the success of its first location in Haji Lane. The cafe now offers an expanded menu featuring plated desserts, savoury options, and signature gelato.

The cosy 20-seater has a warm atmosphere and is adorably decorated.

Gelato 3.8/5

Diners will be spoilt for choice at their 24 rotating Gelato flavours display. Scoops start at $5.30, with premium selections available for an additional $1. Unique flavours such as Popcorn Butterscotch and Hibiscus Apple offer intriguing options, although all that we sampled leaned toward the sweeter side.

Warabi Mochi Coffee 3.5/5

From the beverage menu, the Warabi Mochi Coffee caught our eye. The Emerald Beast ($8.50) combines roasted Sicilian pistachio, pistachio milk, espresso, and warabi mochi, while the Shady & Nut ($7.90) features chocolate hazelnut milk, hazelnut bits, espresso, and warabi mochi. All warabi mochi used are homemade.

Sicilian Pistachio Kunafa 4.2/5

A highlight is the newly launched Sicilian Pistachio Kunafa ($21), a plated dessert that pairs a buttermilk waffle with crisp ricotta-mozzarella kuna fa, Sicilian pistachio cream, caramelised banana, torched fig, and pistachio gelato, offering delightful textural contrasts.

Fried Buttermilk Garlic Chicken Waffle 3.8/5

The savoury Fried Buttermilk Garlic Chicken Waffle ($16.90) features buttermilk chicken with truffle cheese sauce and maple honey, though the sauce could benefit from a thicker consistency.

Cheddar Cheese Coin 3/5

It was a pity that our Cheddar Cheese Coin ($6.50) seemed to have less cheese added, which led to the lack of an oozy cheese stretch we were hoping for. Otherwise, the batter itself was buttery and fragrant.

Yellow Fever 3.8/5

The Yellow Fever ($16) blends mango pudding, coconut cream, and mangoes in syrup, topped with coconut gelato, reminiscent of tropical desserts like mango sticky rice and mango sago.

Korean Strawberry Cheesecake 3/5

Fans of mochi can look out for their mochi-centred desserts, such as the Korean Strawberry Cheesecake ($12). It has deep-fried mochi wrapped around Korean strawberry cheesecake gelato and drizzled with strawberry sauce. While the chewy mochi was enjoyable, the drizzle felt overly sweet and slightly artificial. We would also have liked the cheesecake flavour to be more distinct.

Not Plain Jane 3.8/5

Finally, the Not Plain Jane ($12). This thin crepe is filled with fresh vanilla cream and topped with strawberries and French vanilla bean gelato. The sweetness here was well-balanced.

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.


Momolato
723 North Bridge Road
Singapore 198691
Tel: +65 9679 7268
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu, Sun: 11am - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 1am
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk straight down Victoria Street to Jalan Pinang. Turn right onto Jalan Pinang. Walk down Jalan Pinang to North Bridge Road. Turn left onto North Bridge Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

JUwei 聚味老南洋咖啡店 @ SAFRA Town Club, Clarke Quay - Enjoy Nanyang Delights At This Modern Nanyang Coffeeshop Till 2am

JUwei 聚味老南洋咖啡店 is the new potential late-night spot for anyone craving Nanyang delights like nasi lemak and curry chicken, conveniently located just opposite Clarke Quay MRT station.

Open till 2am, this revamped coffeeshop within the SAFRA Town Club building is decked in retro furniture, decor, and multi-coloured lighting. Before its current iteration, the space was home to JUwei Sichuan Cuisine 聚味江湖菜馆. Now, the menu has shifted to focus on classic Nanyang fare.

The offerings are extensive, including breakfast toasts, beverages, cheong fun, wok-fried items, and rice sets. However, do note that the morning menu has a more limited selection.

Kaya Butter Toast 4.2/5

We enjoyed the Kaya Butter Toast ($2.50). It had cold slabs of butter and fragrant kaya sandwiched between thin crisp toasts. While the portion could be larger, I especially liked that the kaya wasn't too sweet. You can also make it a Toast Set ($5.90) with additional half-boiled eggs and a cup of kopi.

Chicken Curry Chee Cheong Fun 3.5/5

The Chicken Curry Chee Cheong Fun ($7.90) came paired with an assortment of ingredients - chicken, beans, beancurd skin, tau pok and pig skin. The curry was aromatic, but I wished the cheong fun was smoother.

Penang Char Kuey Teow 3.5/5

The Penang Char Kuey Teow ($10.90) carried a decent amount of flavour and wok hei, but it was a pity that the kway teow we had leaned to one of a harder texture. The dish was fried with fishcake, prawn, egg and lap cheong.

Prawn Paste Chicken Mid Joint 4/5

Our Prawn Paste Chicken Mid Joint ($8.90) was served piping hot, with each piece fried to a crunch that you would like your har cheong gai to have. These were nicely marinated, and its meat remained juicy.

Nasi Lemak with Crispy Fried Chicken Whole Leg Combo 4.2/5

Last but not least, we had to try JUwei's Nasi Lemak with Crispy Fried Chicken Whole Leg Combo ($12.90), a dish we saw many other diners enjoying. It was nicely served on a wooden platter with sides of achar, keropok, curry vegetables, egg, and a bowl of soup. The rice could be more lemak, but the texture was done well and fluffy. The highlight was the chunky chicken leg that came with crisp skin and tender meat, accompanied by extra crisp bits for added crunch. The soup was a miss, but the sambal added a sweet-spicy hit.

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.


JUwei 聚味老南洋咖啡店
29 Carpenter Street
Level 1
Singapore 059923
Tel: +65 6988 0836
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 8am - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road and walk to Carpenter Street. Turn left onto Carpenter Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]