Xita Lao Tai Tai (西塔老太太) @ Bugis+ - China's Number 1 BBQ Chain with unique Korean-influenced Clay Stove Barbecue Debuts First Southeast Asia Outpost

Fresh from the accolades of being crowned China’s Number 1 BBQ chain by the 2025 China Restaurant Industry Awards, Xita Lao Tai Tai (西塔老太太) makes its much-anticipated entry into Southeast Asia, right in the heart of Bugis+. With over 600 outlets across China and a reputation for snaking queues in cities like Beijing, Hangzhou, and Shanghai, this cult-favourite Korean-style charcoal BBQ brand finally brings its fiery charm to Singapore.

What sets Xita Lao Tai Tai apart is its traditional clay stove charcoal grill, a nod to its origins in the Xita district. The clay stove retains higher heat than conventional grills and imparts a deep, smoky aroma to the meats, an essence born out of heritage and innovation.

At Xita Lao Tai Tai, beef is unquestionably the star of the show. With an astonishing variety of over 20 cuts to choose from, the menu is a carnivore's dream. Each cut is meticulously curated. Some are left in their natural form to let the pure beefy flavours shine, while others are infused with house-made marinades crafted from a repertoire of 28 secret blends for an added punch of flavour.

We began with the Xita Speciality Sliced Beef Chuck ($30.90 for 130g), a tender and juicy cut with just the right amount of fat to absorb the smoky kiss of the charcoal grill. The Flagship Feather Blade Steak ($36.90) offered a meatier bite, with rich marbling that turned buttery on the tongue once seared. Equally indulgent was the Marbled Beef Short Rib ($44.90 for 120g), where the luscious fat rendered beautifully over the clay stove, enhancing the cut's natural umami. Meanwhile, the Xita Fatty Beef Short Plate ($27.90 for 130g) was thinly sliced and ideal for quick grilling, delivering bold beefy notes with every bite.

Among the most memorable was the Pineapple Glazed Beef Rib Finger ($34.90 for 150g), marinated to tender perfection with pineapple juice that gave the meat a subtle sweetness and balanced acidity. The Special Marinated Beef Rib Finger ($32.90 for 140g) was another standout, deeply soaked in the founder's signature Korean-style marinade, which is sweet, savoury, and utterly addictive.

Whether you're a fan of natural beef flavours or crave bold, marinated cuts, Xita's beef selection offers something to satisfy every palate. It is elevated by the rich, smoky magic of the traditional clay stove grill.

Non-beef eaters are not left out. Three pork options are available: Thick Cut Pork Belly ($28.90), Special Marinated Pork Collar ($35.90), and Special Marinated Pork Fillet ($30.90), each offering a luscious bite and satisfying grill char. The Secret Marinated Chicken Chop adds even more variety, ensuring something for everyone.

Spicy Bulgogi Mid Joint Chicken Wings

A variety of cooked dishes and sides, including free-flow banchan (小菜) like kimchi, tofu skin, pumpkin porridge, and more, complement the grilled meats.

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Feet

Grandma Seafood Pancake

We particularly enjoyed the Spicy Bulgogi Mid Joint Chicken Wings ($14.90 for 5 pcs), which were succulent with a smoky, sweet heat, and the Sweet and Spicy Chicken Feet ($12.90 for 4 pcs), which offered a satisfying chew and kick. The Grandma Seafood Pancake ($16.90) was crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and generously studded with seafood morsels.

Cold Buckwheat Noodles

The Cold Buckwheat Noodles ($16.90) are a must-try for something more filling. Served in an icy, tangy broth, the chewy noodles refreshed our palate and contrasted with the bold grilled meats.

Strawberry Ice Burst 

To cool things off, we ended the meal with the Strawberry Ice Burst ($9.90). It was a refreshing mound of fruity shaved ice, crowned with fresh strawberries. It was light, revitalising, and perfect for combating the grill's heat and Singapore's weather.

Xita Lao Tai Tai brings an immersive and hearty barbecue experience to the Singapore food scene. Its signature clay stove, high-quality meats, extensive marinades, and vibrant sides make it a smoky, flavour-packed adventure worth braving the queue for.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xita Lao Tai Tai (西塔老太太)
Bugis+
201 Victoria Street
#04-06
Singapore 188067
Tel: +65 6908 4181
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Victoria Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sodeng Street @ Amoy - Singapore’s First Korean BBQ with Grilled Duck

If you're a fan of Korean BBQ and looking for something beyond the usual beef and pork, Sodeng at Amoy Street is a must-visit. Brought to you by the same folks behind Um Yong Baek, Sodeng is not only dishing out premium cuts of meat but is also Singapore's first Korean BBQ restaurant to serve grilled duck.

While there are two Sodeng outlets in the Telok Ayer vicinity, I visited the one located along Amoy Street. This sleek and modern space offers a traditional Korean BBQ experience elevated by meticulous service and tableside grilling by the attentive staff.

Exclusive Butcher's Cut 4.5/5

We began our meal with the Exclusive Butcher's Cut (Seasonal Price), a premium beef selection featuring cuts with gorgeous marbling. Grilled to perfection by the staff, what stood out was how the team went above and beyond by demonstrating multiple ways to enjoy the beef—pairing it with peppercorn, grilled kimchi, or wrapping it with shiso leaves. These extra touches helped bring out different flavour profiles in the meat and enhanced the entire dining experience, setting Sodeng apart from many other K-BBQ spots.

Fresh Plain Duck 4.2/5

One of Sodeng's biggest draws is its grilled duck, a first for Korean BBQ in Singapore. The Fresh Plain Duck ($34/pax), made from young duck, is thinly sliced and boasts succulent, tender meat once grilled. The staff guided us through the grilling process and even suggested the best way to enjoy the duck with different condiments. It's a refreshing alternative to the usual meats offered at K-BBQ joints.

3072 Woo-Dae Galbi 4.8/5

The 3072 Woo-Dae Galbi ($45/pax) is the undisputed star of the dinner. This premium prime-grade beef rib is marinated for 72 hours in a special house-made sauce that includes a whopping 30 ingredients. Served whole on the bone and cut tableside before grilling, the beef is juicy, rich, and deeply flavourful, with each bite bursting with umami. For an extra indulgent twist, you can pair the grilled galbi with melted cheese – a sinful but delicious touch.

Frice Rice 4.5/5

Once you're done with the galbi, the staff can use the remaining beef fat and trimmings to cook up a glorious Fried Rice ($17 for 2 pax) on the grill. Cooked with kimchi, seaweed, vegetables, and cheese, the result is a plate of deeply flavourful, hearty fried rice that perfectly rounds off the meal.

Grilled Pork Collar 4.5/5

Not to be missed is the Charcoal Grilled Pork Collar ($27/pax), made from the finest pork neck, marinated in a special soy blend, and grilled over charcoal. The result is tender, juicy pork with a satisfying smoky flavour that lingers on the palate. It's a great alternative if you're not in the mood for beef or duck.

Spicy Toft Tofu Stew 4.2/5

Beyond BBQ, Sodeng also offers a solid range of a la carte dishes. The Spicy Tofu Stew ($17) is comforting and robust, with silky soft tofu in a spicy broth made from house seasoning. It's well-balanced, rich, and flavourful – exactly what you'd expect from a great Soondubu Jjigae.

Spicy Kimchi Cold Noodles 3/5

We also tried the Spicy Kimchi Cold Noodles ($17) to balance the grilled meats. The noodles were chewy and bouncy, tossed in a tangy and spicy kimchi sauce. While the flavour profile was on point, the broth wasn't cold enough, and the portion was slightly too dry with minimal broth.

Sodeng isn't your typical Korean BBQ joint. From exclusive cuts and thoughtful service to being the first in Singapore to offer grilled duck, it brings a unique and elevated K-BBQ experience that's both traditional and modern. Whether you're a Korean BBQ regular or a curious foodie looking to try something new, Sodeng's impressive selection and execution make it worth the visit. Don't skip the 3072 Woo-Dae Galbi, and be sure to save space for that fried rice at the end!


Sodeng
88 Amoy Street
Singapore 069907
Tel: +65 96158785
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 1030pm
Sat: 1130am - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

The House of Chungdam @ Duxton Road - The House of Korean Grill and Dish

The House of Chungdam is the latest addition to Duxton Road, offering a contemporary Korean barbecue experience in a stylish modern hanok-inspired interior. Guests can choose between counter or table seating, with charcoal and gas grilling options available. During our visit, we opted for counter seating, where we enjoyed the charcoal grilling experience, allowing the smoky aroma to elevate the meats.

Boneless Short Rib 4.5/5

We indulged in the House Feast Set ($129 for 2 pax), which includes:

- Boneless Short Rib
- Marinated Boneless Short Rib
- Thinly Sliced Brisket
- Soy Bean Soup, Banchan, Steamed Egg, and Vegetables

We began with the Boneless Short Rib, expertly grilled over charcoal by the staff. The smoky aroma beautifully enhanced the natural richness of the beef, which was tender, juicy, and packed with flavour. With minimal seasoning, the quality of the meat truly shined, allowing for a pure appreciation of its robust taste.

Thinly Sliced Brisket 4.5/5

Next, we had the Thinly Sliced Brisket, which featured excellent marbling that melted in the mouth upon each bite. The fatty richness of the brisket contributed to its buttery texture, making it incredibly enjoyable.

Marinated Boneless Short Rib 4.2/5

The Marinated Boneless Short Rib was a highlight for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their meats. Chunky and substantial, each bite was tender and flavourful, thanks to the well-balanced marinade that enhanced the meat’s natural juiciness. These BBQ meats can also be enjoyed with fresh vegetables and condiments, adding texture and contrast to each bite.

Steamed Egg 4/5

Served soufflé-style, the Steamed Egg was light, fluffy, and well-seasoned. The delicate eggy aroma added to its overall comforting appeal.

Soy Bean Soup 4.2/5

A hearty bowl of Soy Bean Soup packed with depth and umami, featuring tender beef cubes and daikon. Each spoonful was rich and satisfying, making it a perfect accompaniment to the grilled meats.

Jinju Cold Buckwheat Noodles 4.2/5

The Jinju Cold Buckwheat Noodles ($19) was a standout dish with its chewy, springy texture and refreshing, tangy broth. The addition of sweet pear and crisp cucumber enhanced the overall flavour, making each bite light yet satisfying — perfect for enjoying on a warm day.

Cheese-Potato Jeon 4.2/5

Unlike the typical Korean pancake, the Cheese-Potato Jeon ($27) was a delightful twist. Made with fluffy-textured potatoes from Gangwon, it had a crispy, golden-brown exterior similar to a Swiss rosti, providing a satisfying charred texture and rich aroma.

Galbi Mandoo 4/5

From the bar bite menu, we tried the Galbi Mandoo ($17). These oversized Korean dumplings were generously stuffed with minced beef, wrapped in delicate, translucent skin, and served in a light yet flavourful broth.

Mango Shaved Ice, Red Bean Shaved Ice 4.5/5

We ended our meal on a refreshing note with the Mango Shaved Ice ($10) and Red Bean Shaved Ice ($10). Both featured soft, sweet, and milky bingsu, but the Red Bean Shaved Ice deserves a special mention — the homemade red bean was slow-cooked to perfection, delivering deep, natural sweetness that elevated the dessert.

The House of Chungdam brings a modern yet authentic Korean barbecue experience to Duxton Road. It offers top-quality meats expertly grilled over charcoal, along with delicious side dishes and comforting Korean classics. Whether you're a BBQ enthusiast or simply a fan of Korean cuisine, this new restaurant is well worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The House of Chungdam
72 Duxton Road
Singapore 089531
Tel: +65 83362068
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Walk down Craig Road towards Duxton Road. Turn right onto Duxton Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

CHEFLAM's Sichuan Cuisine (兰堂川菜) @ Guoco Tower - A Fiery New Arrival Helmed by Master of Sichuan Cuisine

With great excitement, CHEFLAM's Sichuan Cuisine (兰堂川菜) has finally opened its doors at Guoco Tower, Tanjong Pagar. The restaurant is helmed by Chef Lam Shan, a renowned master of Sichuan Dongpo cuisine, often referred to as the "Master of Sichuan Cuisine." Known for his exceptional skills and numerous culinary accolades, Chef Lam brings an authentic and elevated Sichuan dining experience to Singapore.

Shadow Lotus Root Slices 4.2/5

We began our Sichuan feast with the Shadow Lotus Root Slices ($12.90), an irresistibly crispy and addictive snack. The thinly sliced lotus root is expertly fried to a golden crisp, offering a light, airy crunch that makes it a perfect starter.

Chengdu Cold Noodle with Shredded Chicken 4/5

Next, we tried the Chengdu Cold Noodle with Shredded Chicken ($9.90), a refreshing and flavourful dish. The springy wheat noodles are coated in a savoury, garlicky, and gingery sauce, delivering an aromatic kick. The tender shredded chicken adds richness, while the crisp cucumber provides a cooling contrast to the bold flavours.

Chowhound Beef 4.2/5

The Chowhound Beef is available in a single portion ($14.80) or served in a cloisonné pot ($48). This dish features premium beef slices slow-cooked for 24 hours in a nutritious herbal broth infused with 21 medicinal ingredients, including red dates, goji berries, and angelica root. The tender beef absorbs all the herbal goodness, making it a flavourful and nourishing delight. It is best enjoyed with Sichuan chilli powder or creamy sesame sauce for added depth.

Geleshan Laziji 4.8/5

The Geleshan Laziji ($23.80) is undoubtedly one of the best versions of this Sichuan classic we've had in a long time. Unlike most places that use a single type of chilli, Chef Lam's version incorporates three different varieties of Sichuan and Guizhou chillies, creating a complex and fragrant heat. The chicken is fried to perfection — crispy on the outside and juicy and tender inside — making every bite spicy, smoky, and incredibly satisfying.

Dongpo's Golden Soup with Pickled Fish 4.8/5

A standout dish, the Dongpo’s Golden Soup with Pickled Fish ($29.90) showcases a harmonious balance of sourness, spice, and umami. The broth, made with premium Sichuan pickled vegetables, delivers a rich and tangy aroma, while the thinly sliced fish absorbs the soup’s essence, resulting in a deeply flavourful and comforting dish.

Gold Medal Kung Po Chicken 5/5

The Gold Medal Kung Po Chicken ($16.80) lives up to its name — it won gold at the World Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Skills Competition. This dish is a true revelation, featuring a perfectly balanced combination of smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours. The flavour complexity in this version elevates it far beyond the typical Kung Po Chicken, making it an absolute must-try.

Sizzling Seafood Crispy Rice 4.5/5

The Sizzling Seafood Crispy Rice ($39.90) is an exciting creation for a visually stunning and interactive dish. A crisp rice shell is dramatically cracked open at the table, revealing a rich, seafood-infused sauce filled with juicy prawns, abalone, and vegetables. The crispy rice absorbs the savoury sauce, offering a symphony of textures.

CHEFLAM’s Sichuan Cuisine delivers an authentic yet refined Sichuan dining experience, staying true to traditional flavours while incorporating premium ingredients and innovative techniques. The Geleshan Laziji, Gold Medal Kung Po Chicken, and Dongpo’s Golden Soup with Pickled Fish are definite highlights. Whether you’re a spice lover or looking to explore Sichuan cuisine at its finest, this restaurant is worth the visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


CHEFLAM's Sichuan Cuisine
Guoco Tower
5 Wallich Street
#01-13
Singapore 078883
Tel: +65 89016266
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Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT Station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to the open air plaza area above the MRT station. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]