Located on the third floor of VivoCity, Alijiang (阿里疆) brings the bold, rustic flavours of Xinjiang cuisine to the southern coast of Singapore. Since first opening in February 2019, the restaurant has built a steady following over the past seven years, offering diners a vibrant taste of the Silk Road in an upbeat yet polished setting, complete with views overlooking the Sentosa gateway.
Uae Salad 阿联酋沙拉 (Green Salad with Secret Sauce) 4/5
We began the meal with the UAE Salad 阿联酋沙拉 ($29.80), a refreshing cold appetiser that provides a welcome contrast to the robust, spice-laden dishes typical of Xinjiang cuisine. A medley of greens, avocado, and figs is brought together by a savoury, tangy vinaigrette with a gentle sweetness, making it both appetising and well-balanced.
Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 4/5
Next, the Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 ($3.20/pc) offered a lighter alternative to the restaurant’s signature lamb skewers. Made with succulent chunks of chicken thigh, the skewers are grilled over high heat, achieving a smoky, lightly charred exterior while retaining a juicy interior. The seasoning carries the hallmark bold spices of Northwestern Chinese cuisine but remains approachable even for those less accustomed to stronger flavours.
Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 4.5/5
A highlight of the evening was the Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 ($38/$58), a comforting dish that showcases the Central Asian influence on Xinjiang cooking. The brisket is slow-cooked until fork-tender, with just enough fat to enrich the dish. The tomato-based gravy is thick and robust, offering a natural balance of acidity and sweetness. Presented in a pastry-sealed vase, the dish is theatrically poured into a pot at the table, with the pastry serving as a delightful accompaniment to soak up the luscious sauce.
Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 4.5/5
Equally impressive was the Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 ($28.80), arguably the most iconic dish of Xinjiang cuisine. This hearty communal plate features bone-in chicken pieces braised in a deeply aromatic sauce, alongside chunks of potato that have beautifully absorbed the rich flavours. Beneath the dish lie wide, hand-pulled belt noodles, prized for their chewy “QQ” texture. Designed to soak up the spicy gravy, the noodles are an essential and satisfying component of the dish.
Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot 3.8/5
For dessert, the Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot ($7.80/pax) offered an interesting interplay of textures. The house-made yoghurt is thicker and tangier than usual, paired with chewy glutinous rice pearls that lend a mochi-like bite. A sweet apricot sauce ties the elements together with a light floral sweetness.
Homemade Vrum Yoghurt 5/5
However, the true standout was the Homemade Vrum Yoghurt ($4.80). Exceptionally thick and creamy, it boasts a custard-like consistency with a pronounced tangy profile. Made in limited quantities daily, it is highly sought after and often sells out — a testament to its popularity and quality.
Alijiang at VivoCity delivers a distinctive dining experience that highlights the rich culinary heritage of Xinjiang. From smoky skewers to hearty stews and unique dairy-based desserts, the menu captures the essence of Silk Road flavours while remaining accessible to the local palate. It is a compelling destination for those looking to explore a different facet of Chinese cuisine beyond the familiar.
Note: This is an invited tasting.
Alijiang (阿里疆)
VivoCity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#03-11
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 62524979
Website
Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)
Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]
