Choon Hoy Parlor @ Arcade The Capitol Kempinski - Bringing A Delicious New Chapter to Singapore Soul Food

After a successful debut at Beach Road in May 2024, Choon Hoy Parlor has now found its new home at Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski, sitting right next to Chef Dylan Ong’s other venture, The Masses. This latest iteration of the restaurant continues its heartfelt tribute to Chef Dylan’s beloved mother, with a concept rooted in nostalgic home-style cooking but given refined, modern interpretations.

Roti Bakar 3.5/5

The humble kaya toast gets a modern lift with the Roti Bakar ($8.90). Crisp toast is layered with coffee butter and salted egg kaya, then crowned with smoked lumpfish caviar. While this twist on the traditional Hainanese breakfast is inventive, the fusion of flavours may not be for everyone, but it certainly makes for a conversation starter.

Oriental Charcuterie Board 4/5

One of the more surprising highlights is the Oriental Charcuterie Board ($25.90). This dish cleverly reimagines the Western classic with an Asian twist — think house-cured XO lap cheong, duck liver sausage, waxed duck, and kampot pepper sausage, all paired with crispy you tiao and tempeh. A trio of punchy sides, including pickled mango with belachan, achar, and fu ru (fermented beancurd) labneh, adds bright acidity and complexity.

Marinated Kingfish 4.2/5

Inspired by hawker-style yusheng, the Marinated Kingfish ($19.90) features sashimi-style kingfish tossed in a tangy, spicy dressing of chilli oil, calamansi, and She De Baijiu. Topped with endives and fresh herbs, this is a refreshing, elegant dish that still pays homage to its street food roots.

Buah Keluak Typhoon Soft Shell Crab 4/5

A bold twist on the classic typhoon shelter-style crab, the Buah Keluak Typhoon Soft Shell Crab ($25.90) features lightly battered and deep-fried soft shell crab topped with a heady mix of stir-fried aromatics — garlic, shallots, dried shrimp, fresh chilli, and the unmistakably earthy buah keluak. It’s a punchy, umami-laden flavour bomb with layers of texture that make each bite immensely satisfying.

Same Same But Different Pork Satay 4.2/5

The Same Same But Different Pork Satay ($16.90/$31.90) is a clever reimagining of satay as a DIY experience. Grilled pork is served with popiah skin wraps, pineapple jam, peanut sauce, and fresh herbs — think of it as satay meets Korean BBQ. It's fun, flavourful, and highly customisable.

Chye Ber aka Vegetable Ends 5/5

One of the standout dishes of the evening was the Chye Ber aka Vegetable Ends ($16.90). It reminded me of a similar rendition from Liu Fu Si Fang Cai, but this version takes it up a notch. The assorted vegetable ends are stewed until meltingly tender in a tangy, garlicky gravy made with tamarind, tomato, and dried chilli, enriched further with the richness of pig trotter. The result is a deeply comforting dish with an elevated, robust flavour profile.

Morel Silkie Chicken Consomme 4.5/5

The Morel Silkie Chicken Consommé ($14.90/$34.90) offers delicate clarity and depth. The double-boiled broth, infused with morels, cordyceps, and honey dates, is reminiscent of traditional Chinese herbal soups but elevated in its finesse.

Mocha Prime Pork Ribs 4.2/5

Taking cues from the classic coffee pork ribs, Mocha Prime Pork Ribs ($25.90) ups the ante with 15-hour sous vide ribs, a sticky coffee glaze, and a velvety Vietnamese egg coffee espuma. Finished with pistachios and cocoa nibs, this dish brings creativity and decadence in equal measure.

Assam Stingray 4.8/5

A new menu addition, the Assam Stingray ($39.90), impressed with its bright, tangy Malay-style gravy packed with tamarind, lemongrass, and lime juice. The stingray was tender, and the medley of vegetables — brinjal, tomato, okra, and pineapple — lent a balanced sweet-sour complexity. It is one of the most complete and compelling dishes on the menu.

Claypot Dry Laksa 4.2/5

The Claypot Dry Laksa ($18.90/$33.90) is one for laksa lovers seeking something novel. Cooked in a claypot for added wok hei, the dish delivers intense laksa rempah flavour, bolstered by cockles, prawns, beansprouts, and sinful pork lard. It's a satisfying, punchy reinterpretation.

Trio of Orh Nee 4/5

We wrapped up the meal with the Trio of Orh Nee ($12.90), a modern reinterpretation of one of Chef Dylan’s cherished childhood desserts. This playful version features a medley of yam, sweet potato, and purple potato, enriched with brown butter and maple syrup for added depth. Served with coconut ice cream, chewy taro balls, ginkgo nuts, and a delicate pork lard tuile, it’s a whimsical yet heartfelt tribute to a classic heirloom recipe.

Baijiu & Lychee 4/5

Finishing on a tropical note, the Baijiu & Lychee ($13.90) is a layered dessert of pineapple chutney, lychee salsa, foams and sorbets, brightened with perilla and cooled with coconut ice cream. It’s refreshing, well-executed, and slightly boozy in a good way.

Choon Hoy Parlor continues to shine in its new location at Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski, delivering heartfelt, elevated renditions of familiar Asian comfort food. Chef Dylan Ong masterfully blends nostalgia with innovation, paying tribute to his mother’s home-cooked meals while introducing creative twists that surprise and delight. With its soulful flavours, thoughtful execution, and playful reinterpretations, Choon Hoy Parlor offers a dining experience that feels both personal and refreshingly modern — a true celebration of heritage with a contemporary edge.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Choon Hoy Parlor
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
15 Stamford Road
#01-84A
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6266 0061
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Peppermint @ PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay - Invites You to A Joyous Christmas Celebration

Step into a world of festive indulgence at Peppermint, where the charm of Christmas meets culinary excellence. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by a vibrant farm-to-table salad bar featuring produce harvested from Peppermint's very own urban farm — an eco-conscious touch that set the tone for the meal.

The Seafood-On-Ice spread showcases Tiger Prawns, Clams, Mussels, Scallops and Crawfish, sure to satisfy your bellies. The Japanese section is delighted with fresh chef-sliced Sashimi including Salmon, Tuna, and Tako, alongside a colourful selection of Sushi and Maki. A rare highlight was the Seasoned Jellyfish, an exquisite find that added a unique twist to the buffet. For noodle lovers, a DIY station offers Udon and Soba with an array of condiments to help you create your perfect bowl.

The Festive Carving Station was a showstopper featuring a sumptuous array of holiday classics, such as Turkey with Chestnut Stuffing, Honey Baked Chicken Ham, and Roast Beef.

A decadent Brie Cheese Dip served inside a roasted Pumpkin, paired beautifully with Ham and Cheese Rolls, added a creative flair to the spread.

Diners seeking bold flavours will be satisfied with the rich variety of Indian dishes. A standout was the Crispy Prata Puff, which was perfectly golden and sized to complement the fragrant curries and creamy Butter Chicken.

Meanwhile, the Southeast Asian section shone with its diverse offerings, from Dry Laksa and Prawns in Collagen Broth to JB-style Curry Fish Collar with Urban Farm Eggplant. Live stations feature made-to-order Chicken Rice and Seafood Noodle Soup. We do find the chicken rice lacking in fragrance; go for the noodle soup, which is light on the palette but rich in flavour.

To satisfy our other (dessert) stomach, the dessert spread featured an enticing mix of Nonya Kueh, Christmas-themed Yule Logs, crafted cakes, petite pastries, and verrines. Ice cream lovers could indulge in four refreshing flavours, with the Mint Cucumber Sorbet emerging as our surprising favourite. This refreshing sorbet was the perfect finale to a heavy meal.

Peppermint's festive décor, adorned with elegant Christmas-themed embellishments, creates a magical atmosphere ideal for celebrating the season. Peppermint is also Halal certified. Given the popularity of the buffet, reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot.

The Festive Feast buffet is available daily for lunch and dinner, starting from $72++ per person. For more information and a detailed menu, visit https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pr-collection-marina-bay/dining/peppermint.html

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


Peppermint
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay
6 Raffles Blvd
Level 4
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 68451111
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Nearest MRT: Promenade MRT (CC, DT Line), Esplanade MRT (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch
Weekdays: 12pm - 2.30pm
Weekends: 12pm - 3pm

Dinner
Daily: 6.30pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Choon Hoy Parlor (春花) @ Beach Road - A Singapore Soul Food Haven

With the relocating of The Masses, the space has been transformed into a new concept by Chef Dylan Ong — Choon Hoy Parlor (春花). This cosy spot offers Singapore soul food, featuring a multicultural smorgasbord of heritage and heirloom recipes and hawker dishes close to the heart of Singaporeans.

Mini Fried Pomfret 3/5

We began our dinner with the Mini Fried Pomfret ($8.90/5pc, $15.90/10pc), deep-fried to a delightful crisp. Paired with the accompanying Plum Tao Cheong Dip, it was a pleasant start, though it didn't quite stand out among the other offerings.

CHP Signature Our Rojak, Our Own Way 4.2/5

The CHP Signature Our Rojak, Our Own Way ($8.90) is a refreshing, modern take on the traditional local rojak. It comprises seasonal fresh vegetables like starfruits, Japanese cucumbers, jicama, and rose apple, topped with house-made Rojak ice cream and garnished with You Tiao, century eggs, and peanuts. This innovative twist on a classic dish was a delightful explosion of flavours and textures.

CHP Signature Salad: Ulam 3/5

Next, we tried the traditional Malaysian dish, the CHP Signature Salad: Ulam ($15.90). Served cold on crushed ice, it featured fresh seasonal vegetables like paku fern, white corn, rose apple, jicama, lady's finger, Japanese cucumber, papaya, and seldom leaves. It was accompanied by Sambal Belacan and Ginger Flower Emulsion dips. While refreshing, the raw vegetables might not appeal to everyone.

Coin Prata 5/5

The Coin Prata ($8.90) served like a taco paired with lamb masala and mint yoghurt, was a highlight. The lamb masala, which Chef Dylan learned from an Indian chef, was robust and flavourful. Coupled with the crispy prata, this dish was an explosion of flavours and textures—a must-try!

Pork Tongue 3.8/5

Having eaten beef tongue before, I was intrigued by the Pork Tongue. It was more tender than beef tongue and served in a Thai-style spicy sauce paired with a crispy cracker. If I hadn't known, I would have thought it was beef brisket due to its melt-in-the-mouth texture.

CHP Signature White Pepper Pig Stomach Collagen Soup 4/5

Served in a claypot, the CHP Signature White Pepper Pig Stomach Collagen Soup ($25.90) was hearty and comforting. The peppery soup, comprising whole garlic cloves, winter melon, goji berries, pig stomach, taukee, and chives, was a warm, satisfying delight.

CHP Signature 16Hrs Bone-in Coffee Angus Short Rib 4.5/5

Inspired by the local zichar dish coffee Pork Ribs — the CHP Signature 16Hrs Bone-in Coffee Angus Short Rib ($69/700-800g) was an elevated interpretation. The fork-tender beef short rib, grilled over binchotan and glazed with coffee umami sauce, was further garnished with fried garlic chips for an aromatic finish. This dish was a standout.

Teochew Braised Duck 4.8/5

One of my favourite dishes was the Teochew Braised Duck ($69). Served with a set of condiments, including Tau Kwa Pau, sambal chilli, chopped boiled eggs, cucumbers, and yam mixed with fried hae bee hiam and fish cake, the braised whole duck leg was well-flavoured by the braising sauce for 1.5 hours and tender and succulent. The accompanying Tau Kwa Pau, a disappearing hawker dish, offered an additional way to enjoy this delightful dish.

Ayam Goreng Berempah 3.8/5

A good change from the usual Har Cheong Kai was the Ayam Goreng Berempah ($15.90/6pc). Instead of the usual whole chicken leg, it featured chicken winglets and drumsticks for a finger-licking good experience. Topped with serunding, it offered great textures and aroma.

CHP Signature Hainanese Kampong Chicken 3.5/5

A Lil Lard, A Lil Soy, A Lil Love Rice (Triple L)

The CHP Signature Hainanese Kampong Chicken ($15.90/Half, $28.90/Full) uses poached kampong chicken steamed with spring onion, ginger, and garlic. Served with minced vegetables lightly cooked in oil, soy sauce, sliced cucumbers, spring onion, and chopped ginger condiment, this iconic Singapore dish is best enjoyed with a bowl of Triple L Pork Lard Rice ($3).

CHP X Jelebu Signature Dry Laksa V2.0 3/5

The CHP X Jelebu Signature Dry Laksa V2.0 ($18.90) was wetter than expected. While the rempah was robust and fragrant, the strong cockles' flavour was not to my liking. However, I heard the restaurant has tweaked the recipe for an even more delicious version.

Yuzu Citron Cheng Tng 4.5/5

The Yuzu Citron Cheng Tng ($10.90) was an elevated take on the traditional Chinese clear soup dessert. It was simmered until flavorful with rock sugar, dried longan, dates, white fungus, sea coconut, karaya gum, and Korean yuzu citron, which gave the clear soup a deliciously new dimension.

CHP Signature Durian Chendol 4/5

Another local dessert inspiration was the CHP Signature Durian Chendol ($13.90). A gula melaka sponge cake base topped with pandan jellies, kidney beans, coconut ice cream, D24 durian puree, and corn espuma sauce, this luxe version of the traditional chendol dessert was a delightful end to our meal.

Choon Hoy Parlor (春花) is a gem for those seeking to relive the comfort and nostalgia of Singapore soul food. Chef Dylan Ong's innovative take on traditional dishes offers a fresh, contemporary twist that still holds true to its roots. Whether you're in the mood for a light snack or a hearty meal, Choon Hoy Parlor promises a dining experience that's both satisfying and memorable.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Choon Hoy Parlor (春花)
85 Beach Road
#01-02
Singapore 189694
Tel: +65 6266 0061
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm
Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to North Bridge Road. Cross the road to Tan Quee Lan Street. Walk down Tan Quee Lan Street to Beach Road. Turn right onto Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining @ Scotts Road - Reopens with New Peranakan Dishes

Nestled within "The White House" along Scotts Road, the reopening of INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining unveils the iconic colonial-style bungalow that has been transformed into an enclave that embraces both modernity and the vibrant heritage of Peranakan culture. Its interiors blend Peranakan influences with a touch of modern sophistication, creating a cosy and inviting ambience. The new menu, curated by Penang-born Chef Heng Eng Ho, features old favourites alongside new dishes showcasing his understanding of Peranakan flavours developed over more than 20 years of culinary experience.

Belinjo Crackers

We were delighted with a mouthwatering complimentary welcome snack - crunchy Belinjo Crackers with Sambal Belacan, Gula Melaka & Acar. The sambal belacan whetted my appetite, with its piquancy laced with a hint of hit, making it the perfect dip throughout the meal. I love the crunch from the acar as well.

We started with the Trio Platter from its Signature Tasting Menu - Kueh Pie Tee, Ngoh Hiang, Otah Otah. Individual items are available in the ala carte menu. Within the Kueh Pie Tee ($19) is braised shredded turnip, topped with dried prawns and crabmeat. The shredded turnip retained a good crunch and aptly seasoned, and a touch of the vibrant chilli sauce lifted its flavours. Both the and were equally delightful. The Ngoh Hiang ($19) showcased an excellent proportion of pork and chopped water chestnuts, resulting in a testy, juicy meat roll. Nonya Otah Otah ($16) was tasty with chunky mackerel fish, and Nyonya herbs and spices were also quite balanced.

Itek Tim (tasting portion) 4/5

We also had a soup starter - Itek Tim ($14), a salted vegetable duck leg soup. It boasted a profound tartness from pickled mustard greens, balanced with fruity sweetness imparted by tomatoes. The duck meat was cooked to tender. The soup was also elevated with shaved nutmeg for a subtle lift and a dash of brandy for a depth of flavour.

INDOCAFÉ Wagyu Beef Rendang (tasting portion) 4.5/5

Moving on to the Mains. We savoured the INDOCAFÉ Wagyu Beef Rendang ($38), elevated with premium Wagyu beef cheek. The beef cheek is cooked with spices, shrimp paste, chilli and coconut milk for over three hours, followed by additions of Nyonya rempah and a medley of fresh aromatics. The beef was tender and moist, and the flavours were well-rounded without overly intense.

Babi Pongteh (tasting portion) 4.5/5

INDOCAFÉ also amped its Babi Pongteh ($28) with Spanish Iberico pork. The pork is marinated to the bone with fermented soybean paste and then cooked with potatoes, aromatic spices, onion and garlic. Having Spanish Iberico pork prepared in this manner for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it was being executed. Despite the absence of the usual chunky layers of fats and skin found in a regular pork belly, the flavours and texture were not compromised.

Ikan Sambal Bunga Kantan (tasting portion) 3.8/5

We also had a seafood fish - Ikan Sambal Bunga Kantan ($39). The Patagonian toothfish is deep-fried and dressed with ginger flower and Thai sweet and sour chilli sauce. It was tasty with a firm and succulent texture, although a thinner crust would have been preferable.

Dry Laksa 3/5

We tried its Dry Laksa ($26) with Argentina Red Prawns. The laksa lacked the robustness and punch we expected, and the prawns were a bit mushy in texture.

Sago Gula Melaka 4.5/5

Ending things on a sweet note - Sago Gula Melaka ($14) was indulgent with prime D24 durian pengat. The sticky sago pudding was lightly sweetened with gula melaka and doused with warm coconut milk, bringing the elements together into a harmonious delight.

Kueh Salat 4/5

The Signature Kueh Salat ($15) was aesthetically presented, featuring a scoop of coconut ice cream adorned with desiccated coconut and crushed peanuts. While the pandan coconut custard was deliciously creamy, the glutinous rice layer could be softer to combine better with the custard. The overall sweetness was on the higher side.

Kerinci

To complete the dining experience, INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining has also incorporated artisanal coffee offerings and exclusive beverages. During our meal, we had a refreshing mimosa to complement the richness of the food. When it came to desserts, between Gesha Passiflora ($19) from Colombia and Kerinci ($11) from Indonesia, I opted for the latter, which offers tasting notes of tropical fruits, dried fruits, berries, stone fruits with a wine-like sweet finish.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining
35 Scotts Road
Singapore 228227
Tel: +65 9430 7307
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Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm -1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. On Scotts Road, turn right and walk down Scotts Road towards Orchard Road direction. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]