Award-winning Cantonese restaurant Man Fu Yuan (满福苑) at Fraser House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore, unveils a thoughtfully refreshed à la carte menu under the direction of Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan (陈健倫). Rooted in his evolving culinary philosophy, the menu reflects a deep respect for the foundations of traditional Cantonese cuisine while embracing modern reinterpretations and regional Chinese influences. Rather than reinventing, Chef Aaron focuses on transformation — preserving the discipline, finesse and depth of Cantonese culinary heritage, while presenting dishes through a more contemporary and refined lens. We had the opportunity to explore several highlights from the new menu, each showcasing a balance of craftsmanship, technique, and innovation.
168-hour Cured Fresh Mantis Prawns 3.8/5
One of the most technically intricate dishes on the menu, the 168-Hour Cured Fresh Mantis Prawns ($118 per 250g) is a labour-intensive showcase of curing and fermentation. The mantis prawns are meticulously cured for seven days in a blend of Hua Diao wine, Rose Dew wine, and Shuang Zheng double-distilled rice wine, before being layered with aged first-drawn soy sauce and refined using white rice wine cleansing techniques. While the result is deeply aromatic and complex, the pronounced wine notes leaned slightly overpowering, overshadowing the natural sweetness and delicate brininess of the mantis prawns.
Stuffed Prawn Paste Chicken Wing 3.8/5
A luxurious reinterpretation of the beloved local Har Cheong Gai, the Stuffed Prawn Paste Chicken Wing elevates the familiar with refined technique and premium ingredients. The chicken wing is carefully deboned while keeping the skin intact, then stuffed with a rich paste of prawns, water chestnuts, abalone, and minced pork. The exterior is glazed in a savoury-sweet sauce reminiscent of Korean fried chicken, offering a crisp, flavourful bite. Inside, the filling delivers a bouncy, juicy texture, creating a delightful contrast between the crisp skin and succulent interior.
Shredded Silken Tofu, Spinach Soup with Premium Fish Maw 4.8/5
Inspired by the imperial dish Wensi Tofu (文思豆腐), the Shredded Silken Tofu, Spinach Soup with Premium Fish Maw ($48 per person) is a masterclass in knife skills and broth craftsmanship. The silken tofu is painstakingly hand-shredded into fine strands, suspended in a clear, superior broth alongside vibrant spinach and premium South African fish maw. Light yet deeply flavourful, the dish embodies elegance and technical precision, with each spoonful delivering a clean, comforting depth that lingers gently on the palate.
Steamed Yellow Croaker 4/5
Bringing in subtle Northern Chinese influences, the Steamed Yellow Croaker ($180 per 800g) is prepared using classic Cantonese steaming techniques. The delicate, naturally sweet fish is paired with minced Iberico pork, water chestnut, mushroom and aged orange peel. The addition of pork fat enriches the dish, resulting in a savoury, aromatic broth that pools beneath the fish. The interplay of textures — tender fish, crunchy water chestnut, and umami-laden pork — creates a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
Eight Treasures Golden “Hulu” Gourd Duck 4.8/5
A visually striking and symbolically meaningful dish, the Eight Treasures Golden “Hulu” Gourd Duck ($128) is meticulously deboned and shaped into a traditional gourd, representing prosperity and abundance. Instead of the usual glutinous rice stuffing, Chef Aaron opts for a lighter filling of premium ingredients, including ginkgo nuts, dried oysters, roasted pork belly, lotus seeds, wild mushrooms, and dried shrimp. The result is a beautifully balanced dish that is rich yet not overly heavy, with each component contributing layers of flavour and texture.
Braised Morel Mushroom Stuffed with Prawn Mousseline 4.2/5
Another standout creation is the Braised Morel Mushroom Stuffed with Prawn Mousseline ($48). Each morel mushroom is carefully stuffed with prawn mousseline, showcasing consistency and precision in execution. Braised in superior stock and paired with water chestnut and broccoli, the dish delivers a harmonious blend of earthy, sweet and umami notes, allowing the natural flavours of each ingredient to shine.
Slow-cooked Rock Lobster 4.5/5
The Slow-cooked Rock Lobster impresses with its perfectly tender, juicy texture — a testament to precise cooking technique. The highlight lies in the aromatic duo of garlic: fragrant fried garlic adds a nutty crunch, while steamed raw garlic brings a sharp sweetness and pungency. The addition of black truffle lends an earthy depth without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the lobster. At the same time, a touch of Man Fu Yuan’s superior soy sauce ties everything together into a glossy, umami-rich finish. Crisp scallions provide a fresh contrast, cutting through the richness elegantly.
Wok-seared A5 Wagyu Beef in Mangolia Sauce 4/5
A luxurious take on the classic beef rice bowl, the Wok-seared A5 Wagyu Beef in Magnolia Sauce with Steamed Wuchang Rice and Egg Yolk pairs wok-seared A5 Wagyu with Magnolia sauce, Wuchang rice and egg yolk. The beef is expertly seared to achieve a caramelised crust while remaining buttery and tender within. The Wuchang rice, known for its fragrance and chewy texture, serves as the perfect base. When combined with the rich Wagyu fat and silky egg yolk, it creates a luscious, velvety coating that envelops each grain, delivering deep satisfaction with every bite.
Bird’s Nest Egg Tart 4/5
A refined dessert that balances richness and delicacy, the Bird’s Nest Egg Tart features a buttery, flaky shell filled with smooth custard and topped with premium bird’s nest. The bird’s nest adds a subtle gelatinous texture, gently absorbing the flavours around it while lightening the overall richness of the tart for a more elegant finish.
Chilled Mango Puree with Peach Collagen and Pomelo 4.2/5
Ending the meal on a refreshing note, the Chilled Mango Puree with Peach Collagen and Pomelo reimagines the classic mango pomelo combination with a modern twist. The addition of peach collagen introduces a soft, jelly-like texture, enhancing the mouthfeel. Juicy pomelo sacs punctuate the sweetness with bursts of citrusy brightness, keeping the dessert light, vibrant and well-balanced.
Man Fu Yuan’s refreshed menu is a compelling reflection of Chef Aaron Tan’s culinary direction — one that respects tradition while embracing thoughtful evolution. From intricate knife work to nuanced flavour layering, each dish showcases a commitment to technique and ingredient integrity. While certain creations lean bold in flavour, the overall experience is one of refinement, balance and craftsmanship, making it a noteworthy destination for those seeking elevated Cantonese cuisine with a contemporary edge.
Note: This is an invited tasting
Man Fu Yuan
Frasers House
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]
