Crystal Jade Group Celebrates National Day with Elevated Singapore-Inspired Creations

In celebration of Singapore’s 61st National Day, Crystal Jade Group presents a thoughtfully curated National Day Collection that pays homage to the nation’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. Available from 10 July to 30 August 2026 across its portfolio of restaurants, the limited-time showcase reinterprets familiar local flavours through the lens of refined Chinese cuisine. Staying true to its philosophy of honouring tradition while elevating it with culinary craftsmanship and premium ingredients, the collection brings together a series of inventive dishes that evoke both nostalgia and sophistication.

Crystal Jade Palace: White Pepper Crab Meat in Golden Tart 4.5/5

We had the opportunity to sample selections across several of its concepts, each offering a unique take on beloved Singaporean flavours.

Starting at Crystal Jade Palace, the White Pepper Crab Meat in Golden Tart ($22 for 6 pcs) is an elegant bite-sized tribute to one of Singapore’s iconic seafood dishes. Sweet, succulent crab meat is delicately sautéed with ginger, spring onion and a generous hit of fragrant white pepper, before being nestled into crisp golden tartlet shells made from spring roll pastry. Each bite delivers a harmonious balance of peppery warmth and natural sweetness, making it dangerously moreish.

Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen: Pan-Fried Hainanese Chicken Rice Dumpling 4.5/5

At Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen, the Pan-Fried Hainanese Chicken Rice Dumpling ($6.80 for 3 pcs) offers a clever reinterpretation of Singapore’s unofficial national dish. Crisp on the outside and soft within, the rice flour dumplings encase a fragrant filling of glutinous rice and tender chicken, infused with ginger, garlic and pandan. Served with a house-made chicken rice chilli, the dish captures the essence of the original while presenting it in a refreshing new format.

Crystal Jade Pavilion: Chargrilled Scallop & Rojak Tartlet 4/5

Another highlight from Crystal Jade Pavilion is the Chargrilled Scallop & Rojak Tartlet ($18.80 for 8 pcs). The crisp ‘pie tee’ shell holds a vibrant rojak-inspired medley of jicama, pineapple and cucumber, lightly coated in rojak sauce. Crowned with a smoky chargrilled scallop, the dish delivers a lively interplay of sweet, tangy and savoury flavours with contrasting textures.

Crystal Jade Golden Palace: Sesame Otah Toast 4/5

Over at Crystal Jade Golden Palace, the Sesame Otah Toast ($14.80 for 4 pcs) gives a nostalgic favourite a refined twist. Inspired by classic prawn toast, it features a generous layer of house-made otah prawn paste, coated with sesame seeds and deep-fried to a golden crisp. The result is a fragrant, crunchy bite packed with spice and umami.

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao: Wok-Fried Prawns in XO Sauce 4/5

Seafood lovers will enjoy the Wok-Fried Prawns with Jackfruit & Pineapple in XO Sauce ($23.80/Regular) from Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao. The prawns are plump and bouncy, coated in a robust XO sauce that delivers a savoury, mildly spicy punch. The addition of jackfruit and pineapple introduces a natural sweetness that brightens the dish and adds a unique tropical dimension.

Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen: Sizzling Pig Blood Curd & Tofu 4.2/5

For something more adventurous, the Sizzling Pig Blood Curd & Tofu with Salted Fish & Minced Meat ($16.80/Regular) at Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen is a comforting claypot dish that showcases an often underappreciated ingredient. Silky pig blood curd and tofu are braised with minced pork and salted fish in a deeply aromatic base of ginger, garlic and chillies. Rich, savoury and intensely satisfying, it is a dish that rewards the more curious diner.

Crystal Jade Pavilion: Australian Wagyu Beef Brisket in Pineapple Nanyang Curry 4.2/5

A hearty centrepiece comes in the form of the Australian Wagyu Beef Brisket in Pineapple Nanyang Curry ($42/Regular) at Crystal Jade Pavilion. The tender wagyu brisket is slow-braised in a fragrant curry enriched with pineapple, okra, onions and kaffir lime leaf. The pineapple lends a gentle sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the beef, resulting in a well-balanced curry that is both indulgent and distinctly local.

Crystal Jade Palace: Braised Rice Vermicelli with Seafood in Satay Sauce 4/5

Carbohydrate lovers should not miss the Braised Rice Vermicelli with Seafood in Satay Sauce ($36/Regular) at Crystal Jade Palace. The thick vermicelli is braised with prawns and squid in a robust ‘sha cha’ sauce, delivering deep umami flavours with a pronounced wok hei. It is a comforting dish that draws clear inspiration from Singapore’s hawker fare.

Crystal Jade Golden Palace: Chilled Durian Coconut Ice Jelly 4.2/5

Ending on a sweet note, the Chilled Durian Coconut Ice Jelly ($6.80/pax) at Crystal Jade Golden Palace is a refreshing dessert that celebrates tropical flavours. The silky coconut jelly is paired with a generous portion of durian flesh and strands of chendol, offering a delightful balance between creamy richness and light sweetness.

Crystal Jade Pavilion: Lychee Pastry 3.5/5

The Lychee Pastry ($12 for 3 pcs) from Crystal Jade Pavilion presents a delicate finish, featuring a crisp pastry shell filled with lychee and Chinese yam. While light and refreshing, the yam filling may not appeal to those who prefer more traditional fillings.

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao: Kaya Mochi 4.2/5

Lastly, the Kaya Mochi ($5.80 for 3 pcs) at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao is an addictive treat. The soft, stretchy mochi encases a fragrant kaya filling, delivering a harmonious combination of textures and flavours that makes it hard to stop at just one.

Overall, Crystal Jade’s National Day Collection succeeds in reimagining Singapore’s beloved flavours with creativity and finesse. Each dish reflects a thoughtful balance between nostalgia and innovation, offering diners a fresh perspective on familiar tastes while preserving their cultural essence. Available for a limited time only, this collection is a fitting tribute to Singapore’s vibrant culinary heritage and well worth exploring across the group’s various dining concepts.

PROMOTIONS
From 10 July to 30 August 2026, Jadeite Members and OCBC Cardmembers can enjoy 15% off with a minimum order of two National Day Special dishes at participating Crystal Jade restaurants. *Terms and conditions apply.

Note: This is an invited tasting.

Beng Hiang Restaurant @ Shangri-La Singapore - Timeless Flavours, New Setting, Beng Hiang’s Hokkien Legacy Continues

Reopened with a refreshed concept yet rooted in tradition, Beng Hiang Restaurant marks a significant new chapter with its culinary residency at Shangri-La Singapore’s Garden Terrace. Officially welcoming diners back on 26 June 2026, the 48-year-old heritage Hokkien brand has transitioned from its former Jurong East flagship into an elegant 80-seat indoor-outdoor setting. While the new space brings a more refined dining environment, the soul of Beng Hiang remains intact — preserving its time-honoured recipes while introducing a thoughtful selection of elevated, region-inspired dishes.

Aged Yongchun Vinegar Jellyfish Terrine 4/5

One of the residency’s exclusive cold appetisers, the Aged Yongchun Vinegar Jellyfish Terrine ($15) sets the tone with its refined presentation. Unlike the usual tossed jellyfish salad, this version is carefully pressed into a terrine, giving it a polished, almost pâté-like form. The use of Yongchun aged vinegar — a prized Monascus vinegar from Fujian — lends a deep, complex profile with mellow sweetness and umami undertones. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast between the jellyfish’s signature crunch and the smooth, savoury jelly, making it both refreshing and sophisticated.

5-Spiced Sausages and Prawn Balls 4.2/5

The 5-Spiced Sausages and Prawn Balls ($18) platter stays true to Beng Hiang’s roots, showcasing a recipe passed down for over four decades. The pork roll is tightly wrapped in beancurd skin and deep-fried to a golden crisp, revealing a fragrant, well-seasoned filling infused with five-spice. Complementing it are the prawn balls, which offer a springy, bouncy bite packed with natural sweetness. Together, they present a comforting introduction to classic Hokkien flavours.

Superior Crab Meat and Fish Maw Broth 4.2/5

Rich, velvety, and deeply comforting, the Superior Crab Meat and Fish Maw Broth ($20 per pax) is a quintessential Hokkien-style soup done right. Generous portions of premium fish maw and sweet shredded crab meat fill the bowl, creating a luxurious texture with every spoonful. The broth is thick yet well-balanced, delivering warmth and depth without feeling overly heavy.

Spinach with Dried Sole Fish 4.2/5

A seemingly simple dish, the Spinach with Dried Sole Fish ($16) exemplifies how restraint and technique can elevate humble ingredients. The tender greens are lightly stir-fried and accented with crispy bits of dried sole fish (bian yu), adding a punch of umami and a subtle smokiness. It’s a clean, well-executed dish that balances the richer items on the menu.

Slow-braised Hokkien Duck with Aged Ginger 4.5/5

One of the residency’s highlights, the Slow-braised Hokkien Duck with Aged Ginger ($40) showcases a more refined take on traditional flavours. The duck is braised until fork-tender, soaking up a deeply savoury sauce infused with the warming intensity of aged ginger. The result is a dish that feels both comforting and elevated, with layers of flavour that linger pleasantly on the palate.

Fujian-style Steamed Mud Crab with Glutinous Rice 4.5/5

For a celebratory centrepiece, the Fujian-style Steamed Mud Crab with Glutinous Rice ($138) is a standout. Available via pre-order, this communal dish features a large mud crab brimming with rich roe, steamed atop a bed of glutinous rice. As the crab cooks, its juices seep into the rice below, transforming each grain into a flavour-packed bite of briny sweetness and umami. Ideal for sharing, it is both indulgent and deeply satisfying.

Beng Hiang’s Hokkien Noodle 5/5

A visit would not be complete without the restaurant’s Signature Hokkien Noodles ($22). A staple for nearly five decades, the dish features thick yellow noodles braised in a dark, flavourful gravy made from pork bone and prawn stock. Topped with seafood and crispy pork lard, it delivers richness and depth in every mouthful.

Crispy Oyster Omelette 4.2/5

Breaking away from the usual gooey rendition, Beng Hiang’s Crispy Oyster Omelette ($25) focuses on texture. The egg batter is pan-fried into a thin, golden sheet with a satisfying crunch, while the plump oysters remain juicy and briny. It’s a refreshing take that balances crispness with natural seafood sweetness. The accompanying housemade silver fish chilli sauce adds a zesty, savoury kick that enhances the overall experience.

Yam Paste with Ginkgo Nuts 4.5/5

Ending on a nostalgic note, the Yam Paste with Ginkgo Nuts ($10 per pax) remains one of Beng Hiang’s most beloved desserts. Smooth, thick, and velvety without being overly rich, it strikes a delicate balance between earthy sweetness and the aromatic hint of shallot oil. The addition of soft ginkgo nuts introduces a subtle bitterness that rounds off the dessert beautifully.

Beng Hiang’s return is more than just a relocation — it is a thoughtful evolution of a heritage brand. At Shangri-La Singapore’s Garden Terrace, the restaurant successfully bridges tradition and modernity, offering long-time fans the comfort of familiar favourites while inviting new diners to experience Hokkien cuisine through a more refined lens. With its carefully curated menu and elevated setting, Beng Hiang proves that heritage dining can remain relevant while staying true to its roots.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Beng Hiang
Shangri-La Singapore
Garden Terrace (Level 1)
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 6221 6695/ 6684
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 6pm - 9:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards the Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 23 minutes.[Map]

Hey Kee HK Seafood @ Guillemard Road - Introduces 12 New Dishes and 2 Live Crabs Cooked in 18 Flavours For $88

Returning to Hey Kee HK Seafood, housed in the former Singapore Badminton Hall along Guillemard Road, feels a little like revisiting an old favourite with new surprises. This time round, the spotlight is not only on a refreshed line-up of dishes but also on a compelling crab promotion — two live crabs (approximately 500g each) prepared in your choice of 18 flavours for just $88.

Stir-Fried Crab with Black Truffle 4.5/5

One of the newest additions to the menu, the Stir-Fried Crab with Black Truffle, reimagines the familiar wok-fried crab with a luxurious twist. The kitchen uses a black truffle sauce sourced directly from Italy, layering it into the dish with precision rather than overwhelming the palate.

A generous amount of spring onions is first tossed in the wok, releasing their aromatic oils under intense heat. This step is crucial — it softens the sharpness of the truffle and coaxes out a more rounded, fragrant profile. The truffle sauce is then introduced, melding seamlessly with the aromatics before the crab is added.

Cooked using a high-heat “dry-frying” technique, the process intentionally reduces moisture, allowing the sauce to cling tightly to the shell while subtly infusing the naturally sweet crab meat. The result is a well-balanced dish where the truffle enhances rather than dominates. It’s an inventive flavour that works surprisingly well, offering something different without straying too far from the essence of a good crab dish.

The ongoing promotion of $88 for two crabs (available Monday to Friday, lunch and dinner, excluding weekends) makes this an even more attractive option. Diners can also opt for other flavours such as Typhoon Shelter, Curry, Sichuan Spicy, Braised Crab with Vermicelli, and Baked Ee-fu Noodles with Crab in Spicy Butter Cream Sauce.

Deep-Fried Eggplant 4.5/5

A standout among the new dishes is the Deep-Fried Eggplant ($16.80), featuring the rare Glacier Brinjal (冰川茄) from Yunnan. This heirloom variety is prized for its naturally low bitterness, minimal seeds, and remarkably dense yet velvety flesh. Deep-fried to achieve a delicate crisp exterior, each piece gives way to a pillowy-soft, almost creamy centre. The contrast in textures is further elevated by a glossy sweet-savoury glaze that coats the eggplant evenly, adding just enough richness without masking its natural sweetness. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly from the table — deceptively simple, yet highly addictive.

Temple Street Chicken with Spicy Chips 4.2/5

The Temple Street Chicken with Spicy Chips ($39.80) returns, now upgraded with even more attention to detail. Each chicken undergoes a meticulous preparation process — brined for close to five hours with lemongrass, ginger, garlic and salt, then air-dried for several hours to remove excess moisture. This results in a beautifully crisp, golden skin upon frying, while the meat remains tender and juicy within. The accompanying house-made chips are tossed in a bold, spicy seasoning that delivers a satisfying kick without being overwhelming. It’s a crowd-pleaser through and through — the kind of dish that appeals across all age groups, making it perfect for communal dining. Given its limited daily availability, pre-ordering is highly recommended.

Crab Roe Baked Rice 4.2/5

Rounding off the meal is the indulgent Crab Roe Baked Rice ($48), a dish that leans into richness and depth of flavour. The rice is first braised in a luxurious mixture of fresh crab roe, crab butter and milk, ensuring every grain is infused with the essence of the sea. It is then finished in a hot wok, creating a crisp, golden crust at the base reminiscent of traditional Guoba (锅巴). This adds a smoky aroma and a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy rice above. The dish is served with an additional crab roe sauce, generously packed with roe, crab meat and eggs, and topped with tobiko, spring onions and fried shallots. The interplay of textures — creamy, crunchy, and popping — makes this a satisfying finale. Do note that pre-ordering is advisable, especially during peak hours, as preparation takes at least 30 minutes.

Hey Kee HK Seafood continues to evolve while staying true to its strengths in wok-fired seafood. The new dishes demonstrate a willingness to innovate — particularly with the black truffle crab and premium ingredients like Glacier Brinjal — while maintaining the bold, familiar flavours diners expect. Coupled with the value-driven crab promotion, it’s a compelling reason to revisit, whether for a casual weekday indulgence or a hearty group meal. With a good balance of creativity and execution, Hey Kee proves that even classic seafood concepts can still surprise.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hey Kee HK Seafood
102 Guillemard Road
#01-01
Singapore 399719
(Former Singapore Badminton Hall)
Tel: +65 65141588
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Nearest MRT: Kallang (EW Line), Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Paya Lebar MRT station (Stop ID 81111). Take bus number 70. Alight 4 stops later. Walk straight down Guillemard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Kallang MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Kallang MRT station (Stop ID 80031). Take bus number 70 or 197. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to the traffic junction at Geylang Lorong 20 and Guillemard Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒) @ Marriott Tang Plaza Singapore - Gourmet Lobster & Sri Lankan Crab Delicacies Return

Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel’s Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant welcomes back its popular Gourmet Lobster & Sri Lankan Crab Delicacies menu, showcasing luxurious creations made with sustainably sourced Western Australian Rock Lobster and Sri Lankan Crab.

Available from now till 30 September 2026, diners can look forward to an exciting selection of handcrafted dim sum during lunch, alongside Cantonese à la carte specialities available throughout the day.

Lobster Ingot Dumpling with Gold Leaf 3.5/5

We began with a trio of dim sum dishes, starting with the Lobster Ingot Dumpling with Gold Leaf ($15 for 2 pieces). The dumpling featured a plump chunk of lobster wrapped in a thin skin, though we wished the lobster’s natural sweetness came through more distinctly.

Deep-Fried Lobster with Century Egg Spring Roll 3.5/5

Next was the Deep-Fried Lobster with Century Egg Spring Roll ($15 for 2 pieces). We enjoyed the contrast in textures, though we felt an accompanying dipping sauce would have better tied the flavours together.

Baked Crispy Crumb Singapore Chilli Crab Bun 3.5/5

The Baked Crispy Crumb Singapore Chilli Crab Bun ($12 for 2 pieces) offered a local twist, with a lightly crisp crumb coating and chilli crab filling.

Bird’s Nest with Crab Meat in Hairy Crab Stock 4.5/5

From the à la carte menu, the Bird’s Nest with Crab Meat in Hairy Crab Stock ($50 per portion) was a standout. Served bubbling hot in a stone pot, the premium bird’s nest and chunky crab meat came in a generous portion, while the silky hairy crab broth was deeply savoury and comforting. The stone pot also kept the dish warm throughout the meal.

Baked Lobster with Black Truffle Cheese Sauce 4.2/5

The Baked Lobster with Black Truffle Cheese Sauce ($25 per 100g) was another highlight. The sweet and succulent lobster paired well with the rich black truffle cheese sauce, resulting in an indulgent yet balanced combination.

Live Crab with Preserved Yellow Chilli Paste and Glass Noodle in Claypot 3.5/5

The Live Crab with Preserved Yellow Chilli Paste and Glass Noodle in Claypot ($20++ per 100g) featured fresh crab tossed with fried garlic, pearl onions, ginger and glass noodles in a preserved yellow chilli paste. The flavours were bold and aromatic, though we found the seasoning a little too salty and tangy for our liking. We also wished the crab was slightly larger.

Other highlights from the seasonal menu include the Wok-Fried Live Crab with Shallot and Garlic in “Sha Cha” Sauce, Steamed Live Crab with Minced Pork Chop and Premium Preserved Radish Paste, Wok-Fried Lobster with Trio Onion in Green Peppercorn Sauce, and Wok-Fried Rice Noodle with Live Lobster in Crab Roe Sauce.

Red Bean Glutinous Rice Ball coated with Pistachio and Matcha 4/5

Moving to desserts, the Red Bean Glutinous Rice Ball coated with Pistachio and Matcha ($15 per portion) pleasantly surprised us. The glutinous rice ball was soft and chewy, while the red bean filling was lightly sweetened. The pistachio and matcha coating added a subtle nutty and earthy finish.

Deep-Fried ‘Musang’ King Durian Spring Roll 3.5/5

The Deep-Fried ‘Musang’ King Durian Spring Roll ($18 for 4 pieces) was fried to a lovely golden crisp, giving way to a rich and oozy Musang King durian filling. We did find parts of the spring roll skin slightly too thick, but otherwise it made for a satisfying contrast in texture.

Bird’s Nest with Almond Cream, served in Mini Pumpkin 4.2/5

The Bird’s Nest with Almond Cream, served in Mini Pumpkin ($88 per person), was a comforting and nourishing dessert to end the meal. The silky almond cream was smooth and fragrant, complemented by a gentle sweetness from the pumpkin.

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


Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒)
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
320 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Tel: +65 6831 4605
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11.30am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

KOU at Ichigo Ichie @ Claymore Connect - An Intimate 9-Course Journey of Japanese-French Elegance

Located within the intimate setting of Ichigo Ichie at Claymore Connect, KOU is a Japanese-French pop-up dining concept that speaks in a language of restraint and quiet confidence. Helmed by Chef Tan Kian Hong, the experience unfolds as a thoughtful dialogue between Japanese seasonality and classical French techniques — a philosophy shaped by over 14 years of experience, including a formative mentorship under Executive Chef Akane Eno.

Running every Sunday and Monday until 31 August 2026, KOU presents a limited-time opportunity to experience Chef Kian Hong’s personal culinary voice. The name itself carries meaning — “KOU” drawn from the kanji 宏 (kou) in his name, paired with 红 (hong), symbolising warmth, openness, and depth.

During our visit, we experienced the 9-Course Signature Menu ($188++), available for both lunch and dinner.

Kegani 5/5

The meal opens on a high note with the Kegani (Horsehair Crab). Presented elegantly within its shell, the sweet, delicate crab meat is layered with Tamanegi sweet onion and crowned with caviar. It is a composition that celebrates the purity of the crustacean — briny, sweet, and clean — offering a refined yet impactful start to the meal.

Bread 4.2/5

The bread course is far from an afterthought. A trio of Mochi Bread, Milk Bread, and Sourdough arrives warm, accompanied by housemade seasonal spreads. During our visit, these included monkfish liver, French butter, and sesame paste. Each pairing offers a different expression — from rich umami depth to nutty aromatics — elevating what could have been a simple interlude.

Maguro 4.5/5

The Maguro features luscious chutoro that quite literally melts in the mouth. Paired with tomato, the dish gains a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness while subtly balancing the fish's iron notes. It is a clean, elegant interplay of flavours.

Corn 4/5

A reimagined Chawanmushi challenges expectations. Served chilled instead of warm, the silken egg custard is layered with sweet white corn and finished with caffeine-free coffee oil. The aromatic hint of coffee adds an unexpected dimension. While technically thoughtful and intriguing, the departure from the familiar warmth of traditional chawanmushi may divide opinions — a dish that invites reflection as much as it does appreciation.

Wagyu 4.5/5

An optional indulgence, the A5 Wagyu Sando (+$38) features beautifully marbled wagyu tenderloin prepared katsu-style. Sandwiched between toasted bread and complemented with wasabi and tonkatsu sauce, it delivers a rich, juicy bite with a satisfying contrast of textures.

Abalone 5/5

The standout of the evening is undoubtedly the Awabi. Encased in buttery puff pastry in the style of a French pithivier, the abalone is paired with both a traditional liver sauce and a red wine sauce. This dish perfectly encapsulates KOU’s identity — Japanese soul with French form. The richness of the pastry, the briny sweetness of the abalone, and the dual sauces create a deeply layered, unforgettable experience.

Pork 4/5

The Pork course presents a juicy, tender meatball accompanied by two sauces — Goya (bitter gourd) and Kampot Pepper. While the bitterness of the goya offers an interesting contrast, the Kampot pepper sauce stands out with its aromatic heat and depth, complementing the pork more harmoniously.

Somen 5/5

The Somen course brings comfort and finesse together. Using premium Miwa somen aged three years from Nara Prefecture, the noodles are served in an eight-hour duck dashi broth, simply seasoned with shoyu and mirin. The gentle chew of the noodles absorbs the deeply savoury broth beautifully, while a touch of yuzu zest adds a refreshing lift. It is a soothing yet refined conclusion to the savoury courses — so much so that some diners may find themselves asking for a second serving of the broth.

Koji 4/5

Dessert begins with Koji, showcasing a restrained sweetness profile. The combination of pineapple and white rum introduces brightness and aromatic complexity, while the use of fermentation reflects Japanese culinary traditions through a refined French lens.

Mignardise 4.2/5

The meal concludes with Mignardise, with the seaweed financier standing out — a delicate bite that subtly echoes the Japanese influence, bringing the experience to a thoughtful close.

KOU is not a concept that shouts for attention. Instead, it draws you in with its quiet confidence and thoughtful execution. Chef Tan Kian Hong’s cooking reflects a deep respect for seasonality, allowing ingredients to speak while weaving together Japanese sensibilities and French techniques with finesse.

The menu is introspective yet expressive, with dishes like the Awabi leaving a lasting impression, while others challenge and provoke. As a limited-time pop-up, KOU offers a rare glimpse into a chef’s evolving identity — one shaped by experience, mentorship, and a clear sense of purpose.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


KOU at Ichigo Ichie
Claymore Connect
442 Orchard Road
#01-16/17
Singapore 238879
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Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 12pm (Lunch), 7pm (Dinner)

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards the Royal Thai Embassy. Walk to Orchard Road towards the junction of Orchard Road and Claymore Road. Cross the road and turn right. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]