Ya Ge (雅阁) @ Orchid Hotel Singapore - A Springtime Feast of Togetherness For Chinese New Year

Ya Ge (雅阁), nestled within the Orchid Hotel, welcomes the Year of the Snake with its Chinese New Year 2025 Menu, a vibrant celebration of togetherness and abundance. The menu features nine festive dine-in options, ranging from $98++ per person to $2488++ for groups of ten, ensuring every intimate or grand gathering is imbued with culinary excellence. For those celebrating at home, Ya Ge also offers a takeaway menu with a variety of festive delights.

Crispy Golden Eel and Yellowtail Yu Sheng 4.2/5

No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without a Lo Hei, and Ya Ge takes it to the next level with its Crispy Golden Eel and Yellowtail Yu Sheng. Designed in the shape of a snake to honour the Year of the Snake, the dish combines vibrant yellowtail, crispy eel skin, and finely shredded vegetables. The highlight is the house-made passionfruit kumquat dressing, which adds a fruity zest to the traditional dish. The presentation is elevated with koi fish-shaped mango puddings, providing a delightful, sweet finishing touch.

Double-boiled Superior Soup with Whole Chicken and Shark's Fin stuffed in Pig's Maw 5/5

The Double-boiled Superior Soup is a showstopper. A deboned An Xin chicken and premium shark's fin are carefully stuffed inside a pig's maw, then slow-simmered in a broth brimming with flavours from old hen, chicken feet, chicken bones, lean meat, and white pepper. The result? A deeply comforting and indulgent bowl of soup with tender chicken and luscious shark's fin, perfect for savouring every last drop.

Stir-fried Australian Lobster with Truffle Oil, Pine Nuts, Hokkaido Milk and Asparagus 4/5

This luxurious dish features Stir-fried Australian Lobster paired with tender white asparagus, enveloped in a rich Hokkaido milk and egg white sauce. A touch of truffle oil adds an earthy aroma, while pine nuts and caviar lend textural contrast and umami richness. Every bite feels decadently smooth and flavourful — a true highlight of the meal.

Smoked Herb-infused Irish 'Pipa' Duck 5/5

The Smoked Herb-infused Irish 'Pipa' Duck is a crowd favourite. This masterpiece is dry-aged for 168 hours, marinated for 24 hours, and roasted to perfection. Smoked with a blend of Western and Chinese herbs, the duck's crispy, golden skin encases tender, flavourful meat, making it a sensory delight and a must-try dish for all diners.

Braised 5-head Abalone and Pork Trotter with White Shiitake Mushroom 4.5/5

Slow-braised for over four hours, the Braised Pork Trotter is fork-tender, with its gelatinous skin melting in the mouth. Paired with premium 5-head abalone and white shiitake mushrooms, the dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavours, complemented by a rich, aromatic sauce.

Claypot Chicken Rice with Chinese Sausage and Grilled Eel 4.2/5

The Claypot Chicken Rice is a comforting and elevated take on a classic. The rice, infused with the smoky essence of preserved meats like Chinese sausage, is fragrant and fluffy. Adding grilled eel as a topping enhances the dish with a layer of richness, creating a luxurious, flavourful finish.

Yoghurt Raspberry Pudding 4/5

Chilled Plum Jelly with Fresh Berries 4/5

The meal concludes on a refreshing note with two exquisite desserts. The Yoghurt Raspberry Pudding balances creamy sweetness with the tang of raspberry, while the Chilled Plum Jelly with Fresh Berries provides a sweet-and-sour symphony that is both light and invigorating, making it the perfect finale to a festive feast.

Ya Ge's CNY 2025 menu will be available for dine-in from 13 January to 12 February 2025, with reservations highly recommended due to limited seating and high demand. The takeaway sets and goodies can be made online 3 days in advance at https://eshop-yage.myshopify.com or the restaurant. Guests can enjoy a 15% discount on pre-orders made between 1 and 31 January. For more information on all Chinese New Year menus and takeaway festive goodies, please log on to www.orchidhotel.com.sg/offers/yage-2025-chinese-new-year

Note: This is an invited tasting


Ya Ge (雅阁)
Orchid Hotel Singapore
1 Tras Link
Singapore 078867
Tel: +65 6818 6831
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight towards Orchid Hotel. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Embering Abundance

Ring in the Year of the Snake with an opulent dining experience at Man Fu Yuan, located in the heart of InterContinental Singapore. From 15 December 2024 to 16 February 2025, the restaurant presents a grand celebration of Lunar New Year traditions, offering meticulously curated menus and luxurious à la carte dishes. Whether you're dining in or indulging in takeaway treasures, Man Fu Yuan promises a feast of abundance and joy.

Blazing Snake Fortune Yu Sheng

The highlight of this year's celebrations is the Blazing Snake Fortune Yu Sheng ($988++, serves up to 10 guests), a spectacular creation featuring an intricate design of eight "snakes," each symbolizing blessings like Peace, Prosperity, Health, and Good Fortune. Grilled eels, signifying renewal, take centre stage alongside premium ingredients like abalone, rock lobster, salmon sashimi, crispy skin, ikura, and Hokkaido shredded dried scallops. Drizzled with golden wafu, roasted sesame dressing, and fragrant oil, this magnificent 60-inch yu sheng is the perfect way to usher in a prosperous year.

Braised 'Kao Fu' Beancurd with Superior Soy Sauce 3/5

The meal began with a delicate amuse-bouche: Braised 'Kao Fu' Beancurd with Superior Soy Sauce. A bite-sized delight, it offered a glimpse of the refined craftsmanship that Man Fu Yuan brings to its Lunar New Year menu.

Braised Spinach Seafood Bisque with Fish Maw 4.2/5

A departure from the usual broths, the Braised Spinach Seafood Bisque with Fish Maw features a light yet flavourful broth infused with seafood essence. Paired with premium fish maw that boasts a firm and bouncy texture, this dish is both refreshing and luxurious.

Braised South African 6-head Abalone with Iberico Pork Collar, Flower Mushroom 4.2/5

This trio of indulgences includes Braised South African 6-head Abalone enriched with a luscious braising sauce, tender Iberico Pork Collar, and earthy Flower Mushrooms. The abalone, cooked to perfection, and the Iberico pork, with its delightful crunch, made this dish a standout.

Braised Whole Guan Dong Sea Cucumber Stuffed with Minced Pork and Prawn 4.2/5

The Braised Whole Guan Dong Sea Cucumber is a true delicacy stuffed with a savoury blend of minced pork and prawn. The sea cucumber's gelatinous texture complements the flavourful stuffing, creating a dish that's as satisfying as it is unique.

Steamed Greenland Halibut with Preserved Citrus Golden Chilli Sauce and Scallion 4.5/5

The Steamed Greenland Halibut was tender and moist, with the preserved citrus golden chilli sauce adding a sweet, tangy, and spicy kick that elevated the dish. The balanced flavours paired harmoniously with the fish’s delicate texture.

Braised Duo La Mian with Alaska King Crab, Rock Lobster and Crab Roe 4.2/5

This luxurious noodle dish features Braised Duo La Mian soaked in a rich crab roe sauce, offering an umami-packed finish. The addition of Alaska king crab and rock lobster makes it a decadent treat perfect for the festive season.

Braised Rock Lobster with Golden Crispy Rice, Lobster Bisque, Garlic, Ginger 4.8/5

A must-try is the Braised Rock Lobster with Golden Crispy Rice, where fragrant rice absorbs the robust flavours of the lobster bisque. The garlic and ginger lend a subtle warmth, making each mouthful rich and satisfying.

Chilled Osmanthus Flower Tea 4.2/5

To conclude the meal, the Chilled Osmanthus Flower Tea offers a refreshing endnote. This light, sweet soup is brimming with nourishing ingredients like red dates, snow lotus seeds, dried longan, lily bulbs, and golden bird's nest, embodying both tradition and indulgence.

Man Fu Yuan Abundance Treasure Pot

For a communal feast, the Man Fu Yuan Abundance Treasure Pot is a treasure trove of over 18 premium ingredients, including 6-head whole abalone, rock lobster, premium sea cucumber, fish maw, and more. Available for both dine-in and takeaway, it's the ultimate centrepiece for any Lunar New Year celebration.

Steamed Rock Lobster with Glutinous Rice, Crabmeat and Crab Roe

Beyond the prix-fixe menus, Man Fu Yuan offers exquisite à la carte options for those seeking specific indulgences:

- Steamed Rock Lobster with Glutinous Rice, Crabmeat, and Crab Roe ($158++) – A delicately steamed lobster atop fragrant glutinous rice infused with sweet crabmeat and umami-rich crab roe.

- Flambé Eight Treasure Duck with Abalone ($198++) – A stunning whole duck stuffed with auspicious ingredients, crowned with tender abalone and flambéed for dramatic flair.

Flambe Eight Treasure Duck with Abalone

Lunar New Year takeaway goodies are available for pre-order from 15 December 2024 to 12 February 2025. For reservations and enquiries, call +65 6825 1008 or email sinhbmanfuyuan.manfuyuan@ihg.com. Alternatively, browse the takeaway options online at InterContinental Singapore Festive Goodies.

Man Fu Yuan once again raises the bar with its impeccable Lunar New Year offerings, blending timeless traditions with modern flair. Whether you're dining in or taking home a festive feast, this culinary destination ensures a prosperous and indulgent start to the Year of the Snake.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm

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

Tien Court Restaurant @ Copthorne King’s Hotel - Serves up the Most Auspicious of Teochew Traditions for Chinese New Year 2025

Celebrate the Year of the Snake in style with Tien Court’s auspicious Chinese New Year set menus. Helmed by the talented Chef Lui Wang Wing Keung, Tien Court promises a culinary journey steeped in Teochew traditions. We were privileged to preview the Bountiful Set Menu (priced at $148++ per person, minimum 2 persons), one of five curated menus designed to usher in prosperity and good fortune.

Superior Trio Combination Platter 3.8/5

Our feast began with a delightful Superior Trio of Combination Platter. While the platter included two beautifully fried items, the highlight for us was undoubtedly the marinated cherry tomatoes. Bursting with a refreshing plum flavour and a subtle hint of alcohol, possibly plum wine, these tomatoes offered a tangy and slightly sweet kick that whetted our appetites perfectly.

Braised Fish Maw in Golden Pumpkin Soup 4.5/5

Served sizzling in a hot stone bowl, this Braised Fish Maw in Golden Pumpkin Soup was the star of the meal. The tender fish maw, perfectly braised to achieve a melt-in-the-mouth texture and paired wonderfully with the slightly sweet and velvety pumpkin soup. Each spoonful was a harmonious blend of flavour and texture, leaving us craving more.

Signature Braised White Teat Sea Cucumber in Oyster Sauce 4/5

For those hesitant about sea cucumber, the Signature Braised White Teat Sea Cucumber in Oyster Sauce might just change your mind. The sea cucumber is deep-fried to perfection, resulting in an unexpected crispy texture that contrasts delightfully with the rich oyster sauce. This innovative preparation was a pleasant surprise and an absolute treat.

Steamed Cod Fish with Golden Garlic 4/5

A Chinese New Year essential, fish symbolizes abundance and prosperity (年年有鱼). Tien Court's version features a succulent cod fillet steamed to perfection and topped with aromatic golden garlic sauce. This Steamed Cod Fish with Golden Garlic offers tender, flaky fish paired beautifully with the sauce. We highly recommend this with a bowl of fragrant white rice to soak up every bit of flavour.

Braised Ee Fu Noodles with King Prawn in XO Sauce 4/5

The last savoury course concludes with satisfaction in the Braised Ee Fu Noodles with King Prawn in XO Sauce. The perfectly cooked Ee Fu noodles, infused with the umami-rich flavours of XO sauce, were paired with a plump and juicy king prawn. The slight hint of spice added a touch of intrigue, leaving us wishing for a larger portion.

Chilled Mango Sago Pomelo accompanied Steamed ‘Nian Gao” with Peanut 3.5/5

Dessert consisted of two classic favourites. The Chilled Mango Sago Pomelo offered a refreshing citrusy sweetness, while the Steamed Nian Gao coated in crushed peanuts provided a traditional festive touch. Though both were well-executed, they lacked the wow factor of the preceding savoury dishes.

Set Menus for Every Occasion
Tien Court offers a range of set menus to cater to different group sizes and budgets:

• Sweet Happiness Set: $568++ for 4 persons
• Spring Blossom Set: $1,388++ for 8 persons / $1,728++ for 10 persons
• Delightful Blossom Reunion Set: $1,888++ per table of 10 persons

These luxurious options include highlights such as Prosperity Smoked Salmon Yu Sheng, South African 6-Head Abalone, Lobster, and Bird’s Nest for a truly opulent feast. For vegetarian diners, the Vegetarian Set ($138++ per person) offers an equally indulgent experience.

Ala Carte Specialties
Add to your celebrations with Tien Court’s signature à la carte dishes, including:

• Teochew Golden Fortune Roasted Suckling Pig
• Signature Braised White Teat Sea Cucumber in Oyster Sauce
• Teochew Braised Sliced Irish Silver Hill Duck

Promotions and Availability
Chinese New Year offerings are available from 10 January to 12 February 2025. Enjoy an Early Bird promotion of 20% off for orders placed between 1–17 January 2025. Orders from 18 January onwards are entitled to 10% off.

Tien Court will remain open throughout Chinese New Year, with two seatings available on Chinese New Year’s Eve (28 January 2025). For more information, please visit https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/singapore/copthorne-kings-hotel/tien-court-restaurant/

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


Tien Court Restaurant
Copthorne King's Hotel
403 Havelock Road
Level 2
Singapore 169631
Tel: +65 63183193/ 63183198
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Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk straight down Havelock Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to bus stop opposite opposite Holiday Inn Atrium (Stop ID 06149). Take bus number 51, 64, 123, or 186. Alight 1 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Yan (宴) @ National Gallery Singapore - Ring in the Year of the Snake with an Abundant Feast

With the Lunar New Year just around the corner, Yan (宴) at the National Gallery Singapore is ushering in the festivities with a spread of traditional Cantonese delicacies. Featuring six specially curated dine-in set menus priced between $138++ and $288++ per person, the restaurant also offers an extensive array of a la carte dishes and festive treats, ensuring something for every palate. Here's a glimpse of the celebratory dishes that set the tone for an auspicious and indulgent year ahead.

Kaleidoscope of Prosperity Yu Sheng in "Shun De" Style with Yellowtail Slices and Sakura Shrimps

The Kaleidoscope of Prosperity Yu Sheng ($128/$178) offers a refreshing take on the traditional festive favourite. Inspired by the "Shun De" style, this version features a vibrant mix of julienned vegetables, crispy fried vermicelli, and a savoury soy sauce-based dressing that sets it apart from the usual sweet iterations. Elevated with the addition of sakura shrimps, it delivers a delightful crunch and layered flavour, making it a standout choice for a prosperous Lunar New Year toss.

Braised Chicken and Pumpkin Broth with Fish Maw and Conpoy

The Golden Pumpkin Broth with Fish Maw and Conpoy was a highlight of the meal. This rich and creamy soup blends chicken broth with golden pumpkin puree, creating a velvety texture and a subtle sweetness. A generous piece of Hua Jiao (fish maw) adds a luxurious touch with its bouncy, firm texture, making every spoonful deeply satisfying.

Sauteed Australia Scallops with Asparagus and Black Truffle Sauce

The Sautéed Australian Scallops left a lasting impression with their impressive size and plumpness. Lightly seasoned and sautéed to perfection, the scallops were delicately coated in a fragrant black truffle sauce, complementing their natural sweetness. Served alongside poached asparagus and stir-fried capsicums, this dish is both visually appealing and deliciously balanced.

Steamed Soon Hock Fillet with Sliced Yunnan Ham and Black Mushroom, Seasonal Green

Fish symbolises abundance during the Lunar New Year, and the Steamed Soon Hock Fillet exemplifies this tradition. Deboned and meticulously arranged with Yunnan ham, shiitake mushrooms, julienned ginger, and carrots, the Soon Hock is steamed to tender perfection. The ham's subtle saltiness enhances the fish's natural sweetness, making this dish a standout addition to the festive menu.

Poached Chicken marinated with Chinese Wine and Conpoy

One of the most memorable dishes of the meal was the Poached Chicken steeped in a flavourful blend of Chinese herbs, hua tiao wine, hairy fig, conpoy, and yellow gardenia. The gardenia lends the chicken a natural yellow hue while infusing it with a distinct herbal aroma. The tender kampong chicken is further elevated by the subtle sweetness and fragrance of the wine, making this dish a favourite.

Braised South Africa Whole Abalone with Noodles and Superior Oyster Sauce

The luxurious Braised South African Whole Abalone served with noodles, and superior oyster sauce was a fitting final savoury dish. The 4-head abalone, braised to perfection, showcased a delightful combination of bouncy texture and rich flavour, while the noodles soaked up the oyster sauce beautifully, making for a satisfying and indulgent plate.

Chilled Roselle Flower Jelly with Barley, Deep-fried Sesame Balls

Dessert was a two-part affair, featuring the Chilled Roselle Flower Jelly with Barley and Deep-fried Sesame Balls. The roselle jelly provided a refreshing and slightly tangy contrast to the hearty meal, while the sesame balls, filled with pandan lotus seed paste and melon seeds, offered a chewy texture and nutty aroma, thanks to the toasted sesame seeds. This harmonious combination of flavours and textures was the perfect way to conclude the meal.

Yan (宴) has curated an array of celebratory menus that beautifully blend traditional Cantonese flavours with contemporary touches. The Kaleidoscope of Prosperity Yu Sheng, the velvety Pumpkin Broth, and the decadent Braised Abalone are just a few highlights that exude festive indulgence. For those seeking a memorable dining experience to welcome the Year of the Snake, Yan is sure to deliver an auspicious feast.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yan Restaurant (宴)
National Gallery Singapore
1 St Andrew's Road
#05-02
Singapore 178958
Tel: +65 63845585
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit D. Turn left and walk down North Bridge Road. Turn left onto Coleman Street. Walk down Coleman Street. Walk to destination. Journey time around 5 minutes. [Map]

Soaring Into a Prosperous Lunar New Year 2024 with Crystal Jade Group of Restaurants

As the vibrant Lunar New Year approaches, Crystal Jade Group, with its esteemed portfolio of 19 casual and fine dining outlets, stands ready to welcome the Year of the Dragon in grand style. Renowned for its culinary prowess, the group unveils an extraordinary line-up of dishes and set menus, promising a dining experience that is nothing short of exceptional.

Prosperity Yu Sheng with Boston Lobster Tail, Aburi Scallop & Fruit 4.8/5

Commencing the celebratory feast is the Prosperity Yu Sheng with Boston Lobster Tail, Aburi Scallop & Fruit ($138 small/ $208 large). This masterpiece is a symphony of flavours and textures, featuring fresh and dried fruits like juicy red dragon fruit, tangy green mango, sweet longan, pomelo sacs, dried apricot, and jackfruit. It creates a vivid and delectable medley with tomatoes, purple cabbage, cucumber, deep-fried yam strips, pickled onions, walnuts, and crunchy Hsin Chu bee hoon. Dressed with scallion oil and an Okinawa acerola juice-infused plum sauce, this yusheng is light, refreshing, and immensely appetising.

Available at Crystal Jade Palace, Crystal Jade Golden Palace and Crystal Jade Pavilion for dine-in and takeaway

Double-boiled Kampong Chicken with Fish Maw, Sea Whelk & Maitake Mushroom Soup 4.2/5

The Double-boiled Kampong Chicken with Fish Maw, Sea Whelk & Maitake Mushroom ($42.80 per person) is a heartwarming start to the feast—a bowl of nourishing soup brimming with rich flavours and wholesome ingredients.

Available at Crystal Jade Pavilion

Pan-fried South Africa Abalone with Assorted Mushroom & Crispy Leek 4/5

A highlight is the inventive Pan-fried South African Abalone with Assorted Mushrooms and Crispy Leek ($48 per person). The abalone, first steamed and then pan-seared, retains its inherent sweetness. Fragrant deep-fried leeks and mushrooms in an abalone liver sauce enhance the dish, offering a delightful twist on this Chinese New Year delicacy.

Available at Crystal Jade Golden Palace

Pan-fried Dace Fish Paste with Black Moss in Shunde Style 3.5/5

Nostalgia takes centre stage with the Pan-fried Dace Fish Paste with Black Moss in Shunde Style ($39.80 for a whole). This old-school classic involves meticulous preparation—removing fish flesh, mixing it with various ingredients, stuffing it back into the fish, and deep-frying to a golden brown. While a bit bony, it evokes a sense of tradition.

Available at Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen

Premium Loin Rib coated with Cointreau Orange Sauce 4.2/5

For a sumptuous treat, savour the Premium Loin Rib coated with Cointreau Orange Sauce ($42 regular). Fork-tender, tasty to the bone, and bathed in a luscious sauce intensified with orange-flavoured liqueur, this dish is a celebration of succulence.

Available at Crystal Jade Palace

Eight Treasure Vegetable wrapped in Beancurd Skin 4.8/5

A new festive takeaway highlight is the Eight Treasure Vegetable wrapped in Beancurd Skin ($29.80), a visually stunning centrepiece. This vegetarian delight features artfully arranged shiitake mushrooms, large dried scallops, lotus seeds, glass noodles, wood ear mushrooms, and black moss, braised in a luscious sauce that ties the dish together beautifully.

Dry La Mian with Prawn, Celtuce & Lobster Oil 3.5/5

Delight in the Dry La Mian with Prawn, Celtuce & Lobster Oil ($15.80 for a regular portion). Al dente noodle strands, slicked with homemade lobster oil, are crowned with a delectable combo of prawns and spring onions.

Available at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao

Green Tea, Tangerine Peel & Red Bean Ruyi Roll, Lava Kumquat Taro Puree Doughnut

Round off the feast with two delightful desserts. The Green Tea, Tangerine Peel & Red Bean Ruyi Roll ($10.80 for four pieces) presents a soft and pleasantly chewy jade-green glutinous rice flour roll enveloping smooth red bean paste accented with tangerine peel. Additionally, the Lava Kumquat Taro Purée Doughnut ($12.80 for four pieces) offers light and fluffy deep-fried balls filled with taro puree, elevated with a touch of kumquat zest.

Available at Crystal Jade Palace (Ruiy Roll), Crystal Jade Golden Palace (Doughnut)

Well-regarded for its impeccable cuisine and service, Crystal Jade offers something for every reunion, whether for a large gathering or an intimate celebration. Group Executive Chef Martin Foo and his team of chefs have meticulously crafted an extensive variety of delicious and auspicious specialities, ensuring that the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration is off to a roaring start. Takeaway goodies can be pre-ordered online at estore.crystaljade.com and outlets from December 5, 2023, to February 25, 2024. Pick up your orders from select outlets between January 19 and February 25, 2024.

Note: This is an invited tasting.