Warung Leko @ Bugis - Popular Restaurant From Surabaya Known For Its Iga Penyet Opens In Singapore

With more than 40 outlets in Surabaya, Warung Leko has recently opened its branch in Singapore on Rochor Road. Serving a variety of penyet dishes, the restaurant is best known for its Iga Penyet, which features smashed beef ribs.

Iga and Otot Penyet 4.5/5

Almost the entire menu is dedicated to deep-fried dishes, yet it’s a pleasant surprise to find Fried Otot (fried tendon) as well. To experience both of its specialities, we ordered the Iga and Otot Penyet ($22.50), which combines smashed beef ribs with fried tendon. Each penyet is layered with a generous serving of sambal, and you can choose your preferred level of heat. The ribs are first boiled before being deep-fried, resulting in succulent meat that retains its irresistible deep-fried crispiness. The morsels of fried tendon were outstanding, skillfully cooked to retain their chewy texture while forming a contrasting exterior. They are as dangerous as crispy pork lard but with added collagen. The sambal itself felt like a side dish in its own right, bold enough to be savoured on its own.

Soft Beef Ribs Soup 5/5

Oxtail Soup 4.5/5

I would also recommend trying the soups. We had both the Soft Beef Ribs Soup ($15) and Oxtail Soup ($15). Depending on the season, the beef ribs are sourced from either Australia or New Zealand. The soups brought out the rich flavours and textures of the ribs and oxtail beautifully. Made by simmering the bones with a variety of spices and likely a generous amount of white pepper, the soups reminded me of solid bowls of Bak Kut Teh, with a subtle peppery hum in the background.

Golden Pomfret 4/5

I enjoyed the Golden Pomfret ($14) more than expected. Crispy without being greasy, even the fins, tail, and head were delightfully crunchy.

Telor Dadar 4.2/5

A crowd-pleasing snack is the Telor Dadar ($2), a simple spiced omelette meant to be dipped into the sambal. It’s a humble dish that beautifully highlights the essence of the sambal.

Stir-Fried Kangkong 4/5

Stir-Fried Broccoli 4/5

For vegetables, we tried the Stir-Fried Broccoli ($8) and Stir-Fried Kangkong ($8), both prepared in an Indo-Chinese style. Topped with fried garlic bits and eggs, the stir-fried broccoli surprisingly carried a flavour reminiscent of Hokkien Mee, in a very good way.

Its authenticity is evident not only in the food but also in the crowd. I witnessed a significant number of Indonesians dining there, with locals adding to the mix. On the day of my visit, I even bumped into a friend whose hometown is Surabaya! Warung Leko is definitely a welcome addition to Singapore’s F&B scene. More items will be added to the menu gradually as operations stabilise. So do keep a lookout for it.

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.


Warung Leko
162 Rochor Road
Singapore 188437
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 10pm
Sat-Sun & PH: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction at Rochor Road and Victoria Street. Cross the road. Turn right onto Rochor Road. Walk down Rochor Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Nat's Chick @ The Venue Shoppes (Potong Pasir) - The Daughter of Five Star Chicken Rice Founder Relocated Her Stall to Potong Pasir

I have been following Nat’s journey since her early days at Ah Five Hainanese Chicken Rice in Ang Mo Kio, through to Nat’s Chick Cuisine Better Days Chicken Rice at People’s Park Centre. Now, she has relocated once again, this time settling into a new space at The Venue Shoppes in Potong Pasir. What continues to impress me is her dedication — a true one-woman show, handling everything from cooking to taking orders and serving, all these years.

Consistency has always been central to Natalie’s craft. She stays true to her philosophy of using premium grade A kampong chicken, just as she did from the beginning. The result is a poached chicken that is tender, juicy, and distinctly sweeter than the usual broiler chicken often used elsewhere.

Whole Kampong Chicken 4.2/5

On this visit, we ordered the Whole Kampong Chicken ($44). It was well-prepared, succulent, and full of natural flavour. However, the rice fell slightly short this time, lacking the signature chicken oil fragrance that makes or breaks a good chicken rice. Perhaps with more time to adapt to her new kitchen, she will fine-tune the consistency and restore the standard she is known for. That said, her housemade chilli sauce still delivers a fiery kick that pairs perfectly with the chicken.

Baby Kai Lan 3/5

Onion Omelette 3.5/5

The menu also includes other homely dishes to complete the meal. We tried the Baby Kai Lan ($6) and Onion Omelette ($7), both simple yet satisfying additions that complement the chicken nicely and offer diners more variety.

Nat’s dedication and passion remain unwavering, and while there’s room for refinement in certain aspects, it’s heartening to see her continue to uphold her one-lady legacy of serving quality kampong chicken rice.


Nat's Chick
The Venue Shoppes
2 Tai Thong Cresent
#01-07
Singapore 347836
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Nearest MRT: Potong Pasir (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 9pm (or earlier till sold out)

Direction:
1) Alight at Potong Pasir MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk down Upper Serangoon Road. Turn left onto Tai Thong Cresent. At Tai Thong Cresent, cross the road and walk straigh to destination. [Map]

Chui Huay Lim Teochew Cuisine (醉花林品潮轩) - Launches Teochew Muay Lunch with Exciting New Dishes

After three months of renovation, Chui Huay Lim Teochew Cuisine (醉花林品潮轩) has reopened its first floor, unveiling a modern and elegant 188-seat dining space with a show kitchen. To mark this milestone, Consultant Chef Chan Ka Cheong, a veteran of Teochew cuisine, has introduced a Teochew 'Muay' Menu, offering both classic favourites and exciting new dishes — exclusively available for lunch daily from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

Teochew Braised Platter 4.5/5

We began our meal with the Teochew Braised Platter ($42), a delightful selection of large pig intestines, pig trotters, goose web, and squid. Each ingredient is braised individually in a rich, aromatic broth made from over 20 carefully selected ingredients. The standout for me was the braised squid — a rare find in braised platters, adding a tender chewiness to the mix.

Poached Threadfin served with Fermented Bean Paste 4.2/5

A nod to the fishermen of Shantou, the Poached Threadfin served with Fermented Bean Paste ($8.80 per 100g) poaches fresh threadfin in a light broth of salt water, ginger, and spring onion, preserving its delicate sweetness and buttery texture. The real magic happens when you pair the tender fish with the Puning fermented bean paste sauce, which adds a deep umami richness to the dish.

Teochew Puning Fermented Bean Chicken 5/5

A crowd favourite, the Teochew Puning Fermented Bean Chicken ($13/$26/$48) features kampung chicken slow-cooked in a braising sauce made from Puning soybeans, ginger, spring onion, and pandan leaf. The highlight is undoubtedly the braising sauce — a rich, aromatic concoction that perfectly complements the tender chicken. This dish is a must-order.

Preserved Radish Omelette 4.5/5

The inch-thick Preserved Radish Omelette ($7) is made using premium Chaoshan radish, which is stir-fried with fragrant garlic and pork lard before being whisked into the egg mixture. The result is a thick, fluffy omelette with a satisfying bite in every mouthful.

Puning Beancurd 3.5/5

This speciality Puning Beancurd ($7) from Chaoshan is handcrafted by a Chinese artisan, ensuring a silky smooth texture inside and a crispy golden crust outside. It's served with a flavourful seasoning dip of Chinese chives, salt, sesame oil, and white pepper, elevating its delicate, nutty taste.

Hand Minced Pork Patty Steamed with Aged Preserved Radish 4.2/5

The Hand Minced Pork Patty Steamed with Aged Preserved Radish ($11) features an Iberico pork patty chopped by hand and mixed with prawn, 20-year-aged preserved radish, and water chestnut. The combination offers a juicy, umami-packed bite with a delightful crunch from the water chestnuts.

Chaoshan Aged Preserved Radish, Conpoy and Pork Porridge 4.8/5

To complete the Teochew porridge experience, we had the Chaoshan Aged Preserved Radish, Conpoy, and Pork Porridge ($7.50). Made with Wuchang rice, known for its exceptional quality and firm texture, the porridge is flavoured with Japanese dried scallops, aged radish, and Iberico pork. This dish takes a humble comfort food and turns it into an indulgent delight.

Chui Huay Lim Teochew Cuisine successfully marries tradition with modernity, offering a revitalised dining space while staying true to its Teochew culinary roots. Whether you're a Teochew porridge lover or new to the cuisine, the Teochew 'Muay' Menu is an authentic and comforting experience that is worth revisiting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.

Chui Huay Lim Teochew Cuisine 醉花林品潮轩
Chui Huay Lim Club
190 Keng Lee Road
#01-02
Singapore 308409
Tel: +65 6732 3637
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Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Newton MRT station (Stop ID 40181). Take bus number 5, 54, 143, 162 or 167. Alight at next stop. Cross the road. Take the path between Newton 18 and Newton Life Church to Keng Lee Road. Turn left on Keng Lee Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Newton Circle and make your way to Keng Lee Road. Walk to destination. Journey time around 15 minutes. [Map]

Bernie’s @ Jalan Riang - New American-Themed Restaurant For Good Authentic American Fare

Step into a world of classic American flavours and nostalgia at Bernie's Restaurant, located in the charming enclave of Jalan Riang near Serangoon Garden. The restaurant offers an authentic American dining experience with a wide array of old-school favourites, such as the Blackened Fish, Mexican Chicken, classic burgers, hot dogs, pastas, soups, and salads.

Why Americans are so heavy Breakfast 4.5/5

On weekend mornings, Bernie's presents a tempting selection of American brunch options, headlined by the generously portioned Why Americans are so heavy Breakfast ($26). This hearty platter features a delightful medley of 2 eggs cooked to your liking, zesty spicy potato or tater tots, a substantial pork sausage, spinach, baked beans, mushrooms, and toast. All are served with your choice of coffee or tea. You can enhance your meal with a $4.50 smoked salmon add-on for extra indulgence. This extensive and satisfying brunch spread is the perfect way to kickstart your weekend mornings at Bernie's.

Giant Friggin’ Cheese Omelette 4.2/5

The Giant Friggin' Cheese Omelette ($17) boasts a generous blend of 3 eggs and 3 cheese slices in a soft and fluffy omelette, accompanied by a side of zesty spicy potatoes or tater tots. Served alongside toast and your choice of coffee or tea, this straightforward yet expertly crafted creation showcases a pronounced yet light cheese flavour. It is a simple and gratifying breakfast option that is every bit enjoyable.

Bernie’s Crispy Waffles 4.5/5

The Bernie's Crispy Waffles ($8.50) is an artfully crafted creation comprising 11 carefully selected ingredients. The waffles boast a flawless balance of a perfectly crispy exterior and a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Topped with maple syrup and butter, Bernie's Crispy Waffles definitely earns a well-deserved reputation as one of the top waffle options available.

Overall, Bernie's Restaurant in Singapore offers an authentic and delightful American dining experience. With its inviting atmosphere and diverse menu, Bernie's is a must visit destination for anyone seeking a genuine taste of American dining.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bernie's
15-9 Jalan Riang
Singapore 358987
Tel: +65 8842 1127
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Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 930am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk to Serangoon Bus Interchange (Stop ID 66009). Take bus number 105. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to Jalan Girang. Turn right onto Jalan Girang. At the junction of Jalan Girang, turn left and walk down Jalan Girang towards Jalan Riang. Turn right onto Jalan Riang. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Eixt A. Walk to bus stop at Serangoon MRT station (Stop ID 62139). Take bus number 100, 107, 147, 153 or 853. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road to Wolskel Road. Walk down Wolskel Road to Jalan Riang. Turn right onto Jalan Riang. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Tam Chiak Kopitiam - The Most Trendy Coffeeshop In Hougang by Chew Chor Meng, MissTamChiak and Zhou Chong Qing

Tam Chiak Kopitiam, located at Blk 212 Hougang Street 21, is a dream come true for Mediacorp actor Chew Chor Meng. Together with partners including MissTamChiak (Maureen Ow) and Zhou Chong Qing, they have transformed the previous coffeeshop into a modern and trendy space. The name "Tam Chiak" is derived from their partner MissTamChiak, a renowned food writer in Singapore known for promoting our local hawker culture.

Upon entering Tam Chiak Kopitiam, you'll notice the familiar Yeo Yeo Huat signboard, which holds sentimental value as it originated from the popular Mediacorp TV series "118", in which both Chew Chor Meng and Chong Qing acted. This cherished signboard from the longest-running Chinese drama produced by Mediacorp is now proudly displayed in Tam Chiak Kopitiam, evoking nostalgia and fond memories.

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888 Mookata

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When the new team took over the coffeeshop, they decided to revitalize the food offerings, retaining only two stalls from the previous establishment. One of them is 888 Mookata, a venture by Chew Chor Meng and Chong Qing. To celebrate its reopening, 888 Mookata is running a 15% discount promotion for eight days.

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Chef De Pasta

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The other stall that the team chose to keep is Chef De Pasta, a Western food stall with a loyal following and glowing Google reviews for its restaurant-standard dishes at affordable coffeeshop prices. The humble stall owner, with prior experience as a hotel chef, brings a wealth of culinary expertise to the table. Many reviewers particularly recommend its Japanese fried garlic rice, which is a delightful addition to its menu.

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Dan Lao (蛋佬)

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Tam Chiak Kopitiam also showcases an exciting lineup of young hawkers. One of the new stalls is Dan Lao (蛋佬), which gained popularity at Maxwell Food Centre. Led by a team of young hawkers, Dan Lao is renowned for their fluffy egg omelette over fragrant rice, paired with various toppings such as luncheon meat, chicken cutlet, and char siew. It's best enjoyed with their fragrant homemade sambal, prepared from scratch.

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Nasi Lemak Ayam Taliwang

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Nasi Lemak Ayam Taliwang, a Michelin Plate restaurant with multiple outlets in Singapore, opens its doors at Tam Chiak Kopitiam. Founded by ex-cabin crew Noorman and his wife, they bring their signature Ayam Taliwang to the coffeeshop, offering a tantalizing taste of Indonesian cuisine. Furthermore, they will introduce a new Halal-certified Curry Rice concept, adding diversity to the local culinary scene.

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Flaky Haus

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Flaky Haus at Tam Chiak Kopitiam breaks away from the traditional coffeeshop offerings by specializing in freshly baked croissants with different fillings such as tuna and egg mayo. They also offer a selection of cakes to pair with a cup of traditional local coffee or tea.

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Wen Kang Ji

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Wen Kang Ji, known for their renowned Wanton Mee at Golden Mile Food Centre, takes a different culinary direction at Tam Chiak Kopitiam. Instead of selling wanton mee, they offer Big Prawn Noodles and Teochew Style Red Grouper Fish Soup, accompanied by delectable side dishes like fried dumplings and wantons, ensuring a satisfying and complete meal experience.

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Oppa Kitchen

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Oppa Kitchen, a Korean stall by Singaporean singer Ang Jun Yang, is helmed by Korean Chef Nick, who brings his extensive experience cooking authentic Korean cuisine. Alongside classic dishes like Bibimbap, Army Stew Ramyeon, Rabokki, and Bulgogi, they introduce local-inspired creations such as Chilli Crab Korean Fried Chicken and Curry Fried Chicken, offering a fusion of Korean and local flavours.

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De Sinn Chicken Rice

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De Sinn Chicken Rice, a personal favourite of Chong Qing in Yishun, is a stall beloved for its delectable Chicken Rice. With its origins in Novena and a second outlet in Yishun, this brainchild of 31-year-old Dervin, an animation graduate, has garnered a loyal following. The quality and taste of their Chicken Rice keep customers returning week after week. I also heard it will be a Halal-certified stall.

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Ru Ji Kitchen

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Ru Ji Kitchen, a popular fishball noodle stall, expands its presence to Tam Chiak Kopitiam after successfully operating in hawker centres. Joanne's father in Holland founded this family-run business and has expanded to two additional outlets at Old Airport Road and Redhill. Renowned for its handmade fishballs and homemade sambal, Ru Ji Kitchen delivers authentic flavours and culinary craftsmanship in each bowl.

Tam Chiak Kopitiam offers an array of delightful options, showcasing the passion and expertise of its partners and stall owners. From traditional flavours to innovative concepts, this coffeeshop is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking a diverse and satisfying culinary experience.


Tam Chiak Kopitam
Blk 212 Hougang Street 21
#01-349
Singapore 530212
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Nearest MRT: Kovan (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 6am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Kovan MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn left and walk towards Kovan Hawker Centre. At Kovan Hawker Centre, turn left and walk straight to block 211 towards the bowling centre. At block 211 cut through the carpark and walk to destination. It is just beside the bowling centre. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]