Numb Restaurant (川麻记) @ Marina One - New Seasonal “Wild Origins” Menu, A Refined Journey Through Southwest China

Nestled within the lush greenery and cascading waterfalls of Marina One, NUMB offers a dining experience that feels like a quiet escape from the city. With its latest seasonal menu, “Wild Origins”, the restaurant invites diners to reconnect with the raw, untamed flavours of Southwest China, drawing inspiration from the mountainous regions of Yunnan, Guizhou and Sichuan.

Yunnan Wild Mushroom Black Chicken Soup 4.5/5

A comforting and nourishing start to the meal, the Yunnan Wild Mushroom Black Chicken Soup ($24.80, for 2–3 pax) is inspired by the forest abundance of Yunnan. Slow-simmered black chicken is paired with prized wild mushrooms such as porcini, agaricus and cordyceps flowers, resulting in a deeply aromatic broth that feels both restorative and delicately layered.

Sichuan Spiced Grilled Beef with Lettuce Wraps 3.8/5

The Sichuan Spiced Grilled Beef with Lettuce Wraps ($30.80) features char-grilled beef seasoned with aromatic Sichuan spices, served with fresh lettuce for wrapping. While the beef itself is tender, it felt slightly underpowered on its own. The accompanying sauce and spice mix are essential to bring out the full flavour. Larger lettuce leaves would also improve the overall eating experience, making it easier to wrap and enjoy each bite.

Marbled Wagyu Beef in Traditional Guizhou Sour Soup 4/5

This dish offers a contrasting profile to the earlier soup. The Marbled Wagyu Beef in Traditional Guizhou Sour Soup ($42.80) features premium wagyu slices simmered in a fermented broth. The result is a refined balance of tangy acidity, mellow spice and umami richness, complemented by mushrooms and tender beef. It’s a comforting yet complex dish that showcases the depth of regional flavours well.

Signature Sizzling Fish Fillet with Tofu 4.5/5

A standout of the meal, the Signature Sizzling Fish Fillet with Tofu ($49.80) is filled with tender fish slices and tofu in a fragrant, spicy broth. The fish is incredibly soft and delicate, while the tofu absorbs the broth beautifully. The dish is rich in aroma and layered heat, though adding a contrasting texture, such as vegetables or vermicelli, would elevate it even further.

NUMB also introduces a range of seasonal beverages inspired by wild fruits and botanical notes. We tried three:

• Wampi & Hog Plum Jasmine Iced Tea
• Pink Guava & Green Grapes Jasmine Tea
• Green Plum & Starfruit with Yunnan Olive

Each drink was light, refreshing and well-balanced, offering a nice contrast to the bold, spice-forward dishes. Priced at only $5.80 each.

To celebrate the launch of “Wild Origins”, NUMB is offering a limited-time Membership Top-Up Promotion at its Marina One outlet, with perks such as dining discounts, bonus credits and waived corkage.

Overall, the menu delivers a thoughtful exploration of Southwest Chinese flavours, balancing boldness with refinement. It’s a great spot for gatherings, whether for casual meals or more intimate group dining, especially if you’re looking for something that goes beyond the usual Sichuan fare.

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


Numb Restaurant (川麻记)
Marina One West Tower
5 Straits View
#01-12
Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 9460 1960
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Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line), Marina Bay (CC, NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 230pm, 5pm - 10pm

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

2) Alight at the Downtown MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Straits View. Turn right onto Straits View. Walk down Straits View. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Marina Bay MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn left onto Commerce Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Quan Hotpot @ Hotel Michael - A Refined Five Elements Hotpot Experience

Located at Resorts World Sentosa, Quan Hotpot is a contemporary dining concept that offers a refined take on the traditional hotpot experience. Situated within Hotel Michael (Level 1), the restaurant emphasises balanced flavours and sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, guided by the Chinese philosophy of the Five Elements — sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, and salty.

Departing from the communal pot format, Quan Hotpot serves its broths individually, allowing diners to tailor their experience from the outset. The selection is diverse, ranging from the rich Signature Singapore Laksa Broth to the comforting Traditional Congee Broth and Collagen Herbal Chicken Broth. Those who prefer bolder flavours can opt for the Classic Sichuan Mala Broth, while the Heritage Suan Cai Broth offers a tangy, fermented profile.

I went with the Heritage Suan Cai Broth, which delivered a well-balanced tanginess that was both appetising and comforting. The acidity of the preserved mustard greens was gentle yet distinct, lifting the flavours of the accompanying ingredients without overpowering them. It proved to be a versatile base that grew more flavourful as the meal progressed.

Once the broth is selected, the experience becomes interactive with a selection of condiments presented tableside. Diners can mix their own dipping sauces to suit their preferences, adding another layer of personalisation to the meal.

The Signature 4 Element Hotpot Set Menu ($68 per person) offers a comprehensive spread, covering premium meats, seafood, vegetables, housemade items, noodles, and dessert. It is a well-curated selection that balances variety and quality.

The Premium Meat Selection includes Organic Australian Pork Belly, US “CAB” Beef Short Plates, Kampong Chicken Thigh, and Sliced Salt Grass-Fed Australian Lamb Shoulder. Each was thinly sliced for quick cooking, with the beef short plate standing out for its tenderness and marbling, while the pork belly offered a satisfying balance of fat and lean.

The Premium Fresh Seafood Selection features Live Tiger Prawns, Hokkaido Scallops, Fish Slices, and Live Korean Abalone. The prawns were firm and naturally sweet, while the scallops were plump and delicate. The abalone added a touch of indulgence, with a tender bite and subtle briny sweetness.

The Vegetable Selection was equally satisfying, comprising Bok Choy, Napa Cabbage, Spinach, King Oyster and Shiitake Mushrooms, along with Beancurd Roll, Silken Tofu, Potato, and Sweet Corn. Fresh and vibrant, the assortment provided a good balance to the meal’s richer components.

A highlight in both presentation and texture is the 5 Elements Fish Noodles, served in striking hues of orange, purple, yellow, black, and green. Beyond their visual appeal, the noodles offered a delightful chew and springy bite, making them a fun addition to the hotpot.

The dessert was less impressive. The Flamed Meringue Ice Cream arrived with a theatrical flourish but leaned overly sweet, overshadowing the ice cream beneath. The Fresh Fruit platter provided a lighter finish, though the fruits lacked the sweetness expected to round off the meal on a stronger note.

Overall, Quan Hotpot delivers a polished and thoughtfully executed hotpot experience. Its focus on individual broths, quality ingredients, and a balanced flavour philosophy sets it apart, making it a compelling option for those seeking a more refined take on this comforting dining tradition.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Quan Hotpot
Hotel Michael
Level 1
8 Sentosa Gateway
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6577 6665
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 5pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Vivocity Level 3 to Vivocity Monorail Station. Take the Monorail to Sentosa. Alight at Resorts World Station. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 15 minutes. [Map]

The Soup Expert @ Suntec City - Brings Its Signature “Soup in a Pot” to Singapore

Renowned as the number one “Soup in a Pot” brand with over 7.5 million teapots served, The Soup Expert marks its first overseas debut at Suntec City, Singapore, this October. Best known for its nourishing Cantonese double-boiled soups served in charming individual teapots, the dining experience here is both comforting and symbolic. The soups are raised, poured, and shared in a gesture akin to a toast.

There are eight different double-boiled soups on the menu, priced between $10.90 and $14.90, each formulated with specific nourishing and health benefits in mind.

Chinese Dates Fig Root Chicken Soup 4/5

We started with the Chinese Dates Fig Root Chicken Soup ($10.90), a light and soothing broth said to support digestion and breathing. Brewed for four hours, the soup draws out a clean chicken essence, complemented by jujubes and fig root, both known for their fibre content and digestive benefits. Subtle, gentle, and easy to drink, this comforting everyday soup doesn’t overwhelm the palate.

Black Garlic Beef Bone Soup 4.2/5

The Black Garlic Beef Bone Soup ($13.90) offers a deeper and more robust flavour profile, designed to boost strength and vitality. The slow-simmered beef bone base is enriched with the caramelised, slightly sweet notes of black garlic, which is believed to energise the body and support immune health. Compared to the chicken soup, this version is richer and more intense, making it a satisfying choice for those who prefer a bolder bowl.

Blue Friend Fried Rice 3.5/5

The Blue Friend Fried Rice ($15.90) is a playful, tongue-in-cheek dish. Presented as a striking blue pyramid of Dongbei rice tinted with blue pea flower, it is tossed with edamame, cashews, and almonds for added texture. Putting the eye-catching colour aside, the flavour surprisingly resembles pineapple fried rice, minus the pineapple, thanks to the sweet notes from raisins and the nutty crunch.

Crispy Juicy Boneless Fish 3.8/5

A family-friendly favourite, the Crispy Juicy Boneless Fish ($12.90) delivers exactly what its name promises. Crisp on the outside and unexpectedly juicy within, the fish is coated in a sweet sauce that complements its delicate flesh. A squeeze of calamansi adds brightness, lifting the overall flavour and enhancing enjoyment.

Fruity Sweet & Sour Pork 4/5

The Fruity Sweet & Sour Pork ($16.90) turns out to be a pleasant surprise. Chunky pieces of tender, juicy pork are encased in a thin, crispy batter and coated with a well-balanced sweet and sour sauce. Served atop a bed of ice, the dish plays with hot-and-cold contrast. The addition of fruits like melon, kiwi, and blueberries gives it a refreshing, fruity finish that keeps it from feeling too heavy.

Cooker-Baked Dang Gui Chicken (Half) 4.5/5

Who serves a dish in a rice cooker? The Soup Expert does. The Cooker-Baked Dang Gui Chicken ($18.90 for Half / $36.90 for Whole) arrives dramatically in a rice cooker, and it’s easily one of the highlights of the meal. The chicken is marinated for over 10 hours in a secret recipe before being infused with angelica root (dang gui), red dates, and goji berries during cooking. The result is tender, flavourful poultry bathed in a nourishing broth. It is an excellent representation of Chinese culinary wisdom where food and medicine seamlessly intertwine.

Overall, The Soup Expert delivers a comforting yet distinctive dining experience that places wellness at the forefront without compromising on flavour. From its thoughtfully prepared double-boiled soups to its hearty cooked dishes, this concept feels both traditional and refreshingly novel in Singapore’s dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Soup Expert
Suntect City
3 Temasek Boulevard
#03-315/316/331
Singapore 038983
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Leila @ Teck Lim Road - New Gastro-Bar Where Middle Eastern Comfort Meets Balkan Spice

Leila, located on Teck Lim Road in Chinatown, is the newest gastro-bar in town, offering bold regional flavours from the Middle East and Balkans with a touch of modern sophistication to Singapore's dining scene. The menu spans from comforting breads and mezze to robust grills and reimagined desserts, making it a place well-suited for both casual sharing and indulgent feasting.

Kubana Bread 4/5

We started dinner with the Kubana Bread ($15), a warm Yemeni brioche served alongside creamy tahini and fresh crushed tomatoes. Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, the bread is elevated when paired with the nutty creaminess of the tahini and the refreshing acidity of the tomato.

Balkan Anchovy Bruschetta 4/5

The Balkan Anchovy Bruschetta ($21) is a delightful bite. Toasted homemade challah bread forms the base, topped with roasted eggplant cream, salt-cured anchovies, chopped Kalamata olives, cornichons, pickled onions, and finished with Greek olive oil. A complex layering of savoury, tangy, and briny flavours keeps every bite exciting.

Arais Cigar 4/5

Resembling a local spring roll, the Arais Cigar ($24) is made with crisp filo pastry filled with spiced beef, paired with tahini on the side. Crisp, golden, and savoury, it makes for an addictive sharing starter.

Green Chilli Shrimp 4.2/5

The Green Chilli Shrimp ($26) was one of the highlights. Juicy, smoky-charred shellfish is cloaked in a piquant Tatbila green chilli sauce, accompanied by a refreshing chopped salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs. The combination strikes a delicate balance between heat and freshness.

Beef Kebab Skewers 4.2/5

For heartier fare, the Beef Kebab Skewers ($25) deliver with meaty, well-seasoned bites accented with herbs and chilli. The skewers are further elevated by a robust mashwiya salsa of roasted peppers and tomatoes, accompanied by a drizzle of tahini for added creaminess.

Manseef 4.2/5

The Manseef ($35) is a Balkan speciality worth ordering. Tender minced chicken is sautéed with onions, pine nuts, and cherry tomatoes, and sits atop hummus and tahini, finished with a dollop of harissa. Bold, nutty, and fiery, it's a dish where you'll want to save some Kubana Bread to mop everything up.

Tripoli Freekeh Fish 4.2/5

Another standout is the Tripoli Freekeh Fish ($35). Market-fresh fish fillet is paired with freekeh, a smoky Middle Eastern grain, and served in a slow-cooked spiced tomato sauce. It’s hearty and comforting, yet refined.

Knafe 4.5/5

Ending on a sweet note, the Knafe ($21) is the star of the evening. This modern take on a classic Middle Eastern dessert features crispy kataifi pastry, stretchy mozzarella, cinnamon, pistachios, and ice cream. The play of textures and aromatic spices made this the most memorable dish of the night.

Leila stands out for its ability to blend Middle Eastern and Balkan flavours with a touch of modern elegance. From hearty meats to vibrant small plates and a must-try dessert, it’s a place that invites you to dine, share, and discover bold yet balanced flavours.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Leila
12 Teck Lim Road
Singapore 088387
Tel: +65 8016 4117
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 6pm - till late
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight down New Bridge Road. Turn right onto Kreta Ayer Road. Walk down Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk down Keong Saik Road. Turn left onto Teck Lim Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Fu Yuan Teochew Dining (馥苑) @ Clarke Quay - A New and First Teochew Restaurant in Clarke Quay

Fu Yuan Teochew Dining, a fresh addition to the Clarke Quay dining scene, opened its doors in November 2024. The restaurant blends tradition with modern elegance, featuring a sleek black and red colour palette that creates a sophisticated yet welcoming ambience. Specialising in authentic Teochew cuisine with innovative touches, Fu Yuan offers an array of delectable dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Teochew cooking.

Prosperity Abalone Yu Sheng 3/5

To mark the Chinese New Year festivities, we started with the Prosperity Abalone Yu Sheng ($58/$88). A staple of any Lunar New Year celebration, this dish set the tone for an auspicious meal as we tossed for good fortune, abundance, and prosperity.

Marinated Raw Roe Crab 4.5/5

One of Fu Yuan’s signature dishes, the Marinated Raw Roe Crab ($88), is a true indulgence for seafood lovers. Fresh and generously packed with roe, the crab is steeped in a self-brewed white wine marinade, giving it a delicate floral aroma that enhances the sweetness of the crab meat. This dish is a must-try for those who appreciate bold, umami flavours.

Crispy 'Bing Chuan' Brinjal 4.8/5

A unique offering at Fu Yuan, the Crispy 'Bing Chuan' Brinjal, features an uncommon variety of eggplant sourced from high-altitude, cool-climate regions. This growing environment produces a firmer, denser texture with low moisture content, making it ideal for frying. The result? A crisp, crunchy bite that retains the natural sweetness of the brinjal. Even non-eggplant eaters may find themselves converted by this dish!

Grilled Black Char Siew 4.2/5

While not traditionally Teochew, the Grilled Black Char Siew ($22) is expertly charcoal-grilled, delivering a smoky, caramelised crust that encases tender, flavorful meat. The execution of this Cantonese classic is commendable, making it a worthy addition to the menu.

Teochew Style Pan-fried Oyster Omelette 3.5/5

The Teochew Style Pan-fried Oyster Omelette ($18) takes a more homely approach than the crispy, gooey versions I preferred. This rendition is eggier and fluffier, resembling a classic home-cooked style rather than the traditional wok-fried oyster omelette. While it lacks the expected crispy and starchy contrast, the tangy chilli sauce provides a great complement.

Pan-fried Dragon Tiger Grouper with Shark Cartilage Soup Teochew Style 3.8/5

A departure from the usual steamed Teochew-style fish, this Pan-fried Dragon Tiger Grouper with Shark Cartilage Soup Teochew Style ($13/100g) offers a crispy exterior while keeping the fish meat tender. The creamy shark cartilage soup adds an umami depth, making this a delightful alternative to the traditional preparation.

Creamy Pumpkin Boston Lobster 4.2/5

The Creamy Pumpkin Boston Lobster ($16/100g) presents a unique twist on the usual lobster preparations. The sauce, reminiscent of salted egg yolk, combines the sweetness of pumpkin with an aromatic curry leaf finish, creating a balanced and addictive flavour that pairs beautifully with the lobster meat. Promo: Reserve via Chope using promo code "FYLOBSTER" to enjoy a complimentary Creamy Pumpkin Boston Lobster!

Wok-fried Preserved Radish Hor Fun 3.8/5

While the Wok-fried Preserved Radish Hor Fun ($24/$48) is a well-executed plate of rice noodles, it leans more towards a classic fried kway teow rather than the expected Teochew-style preserved radish hor fun. The preserved radish flavour is not distinct, and the crunch from diced kai lan is lacking, which would have added more texture and depth to the dish.

Peach Gum with Hokkaido Milk 3.8/5

To wrap up the meal, we enjoyed two classic Teochew desserts. The Peach Gum with Hokkaido Milk ($8) is served hot or cold. It is smooth, creamy, and lightly sweetened, making for a refreshing finish. We also had the Mashed Taro 'Orh Nee' ($7), a classic Teochew dessert that is rich, smooth, and well-balanced in sweetness, perfect for rounding off the dining experience.

Mashed Taro 'Orh Nee' 4/5

Fu Yuan Teochew Dining is a welcome addition to the Clarke Quay dining scene, offering classic Teochew cuisine with modern and creative interpretations. Standouts include the Marinated Raw Roe Crab, Crispy 'Bing Chuan' Brinjal, and Creamy Pumpkin Boston Lobster. While some dishes, like the oyster omelette and hor fun, could be refined further, the overall experience showcases quality ingredients and skilful execution. Whether you're looking for a prosperous Chinese New Year meal or a place to indulge in Teochew specialities, Fu Yuan is worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Fu Yuan Teochew Dining (馥苑)
Clarke Quay
3A River Valley Road
#01-01C/01D
Singapore 179020
Tel: +65 88020101
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line), Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 5pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit C or G. Walk to the river. Turn left and walk down the river towards the bridge. Cross the bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right onto River Valley Road Walk down River Valley Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]