Violet Oon Singapore @ Dempsey Hill - Launches Four CNY Set Menus For Intimate Gatherings in an Elegant Setting

For the upcoming Chinese New Year, Violet Oon Singapore at Dempsey introduces festive set menus available exclusively within its private dining rooms. Four specially curated Chinese New Year set menus are available, designed for intimate gatherings in an elegant setting.

VO Fragrant Yu Sheng 5/5

The Prosperity Sharing Set Menu (from S$148++ per person) opens with the VO Fragrant Yu Sheng. I have always enjoyed the addition of kaffir lime leaves in this rendition, and here, their presence was especially generous. The sharp, citrusy fragrance was further elevated by pink ginger flower, while an increased amount of julienned beetroot and the inclusion of ice plant, known for its heightened crunch, added both texture and freshness to the dish.

Hee Peow Soup 5/5

This was followed by an individually served bowl of Hee Peow Soup, a seasonal Peranakan Lunar New Year classic. The comforting broth is slow-simmered using a superior pork and chicken stock, enriched with whole baby abalone, fish maw, sea cucumber, and impressively juicy house-made prawn, crab, fish and pork balls.

Kuey Pie Tee 3/5

Ngoh Hiang 4/5

Starters included Kuay Pie Tee and Ngoh Hiang. Both were well seasoned, with the latter offering a tender bite. The addition of water chestnut provided a pleasant crunch that balanced the richness and meatiness of the filling.

Beef Rendang 4.5/5

For Mains, the slow-braised Beef Rendang featured beef shin braised in spices and kaffir lime leaves, then finished in coconut milk, resulting in fork-tender meat that was both rich and crowd-pleasing.

Ayam Buah Keluak 4.5/5

I particularly enjoyed the equally well-executed Ayam Buah Keluak, notable for its punchy gravy and generous chunks of buah keluak that delivered depth and intensity.

Garam Assam Fish 4.5/5

Garam Assam Fish was another highlight, featuring red snapper in a spicy-sour gravy accented with pineapple and pink ginger flower. The pineapples were thinly sliced, and their fruity tartness made the dish even more appetising.

Udang Goreng Chilli 3/5

Udang Goreng Chilli showcased angka prawns topped with chilli padi and garlic rempah. While flavourful, the dish leaned slightly towards greasy.

Chap Chye 4/5

Chap Chye, braised in a full-bodied prawn bisque that impressed with its deep savouriness, but the cabbage needed a much longer stewing time to soften thoroughly.

Nasi Ulam 5/5

One of my favourite dishes of the meal was the herbaceous Nasi Ulam. Diced prawns were folded into the rice, adding sweetness and textural contrast that complemented the raw, aromatic herbs.

Handmade Perankan Kueh 4/5

Dessert concluded the meal with a thoughtful selection of Handmade Peranakan Kueh, including Ang Ku Kueh, Kueh Kochi and Kueh Ambon. Both the ang ku kueh and kueh ambon stood out for their texture, with the kueh ambon being exceptionally spongy, though the overall sweetness could be toned down slightly.

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.


Violet Oon Singapore
Dempsey Hill
7 Dempsey Road
#01-05
Singapore 249671
Tel: +65 9834 9935
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Nearest MRT: Napier (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to the bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alright 2 stops later. Walk to Dempsey Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes.[Map]

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant @ Carlton Hotel Singapore - Welcomes the Year of the Fire Horse with Auspicious Lunar New Year Feasts

As the Year of the Fire Horse gallops in with renewed energy and hope, Carlton Hotel Singapore ushers in the festive season with a thoughtfully curated Lunar New Year dining experience at Wah Lok. From indulgent dine-in set menus for multi-generational reunions to beautifully crafted takeaway centrepieces for home celebrations, every detail reflects care, symbolism and a legacy of culinary refinement.

Available from 9 February to 3 March 2026, Wah Lok presents eight auspicious set menus starting from $88 per person, each dish designed to symbolise abundance, health and happiness – perfect for meaningful festive gatherings.

Sea Cucumber White Bait Yu Sheng 4/5

A festive meal begins, as tradition dictates, with a joyous Lo Hei. The Sea Cucumber White Bait Yu Sheng ($108/$148) offers a refined twist on the classic, combining auspicious ingredients with layered textures for a vibrant toss that symbolises rising fortune and hopeful beginnings. Making its debut as one of this year’s takeaway items, this elegant Yu Sheng is well-balanced and celebratory, setting the tone for the feast ahead.

Traditional-boiled Chicken Fish Maw Soup 3/5

The Traditional-boiled Chicken Fish Maw Soup was nourishing and comforting, with a clean, homely broth that warmed the palate. However, for a Chinese New Year menu, the soup could have been more luxurious, with deeper flavours or more premium ingredients to better reflect the festive occasion.

Pan-fried Scallop, Minced Shrimp, Crab Meat, Crab Roe 4/5

A luxurious seafood medley, the Pan-fried Scallop with Minced Shrimp, Crab Meat and Crab Roe delivered on visual appeal and indulgence. The scallop was plump and juicy, nicely complemented by the rich crab meat and crab roe sauce. While the dish was celebratory in spirit, I only wished the umami of the crab roe could come through more prominently to elevate the overall depth of flavour.

Abalone Eight Treasure Duck 4/5

Making its takeaway debut this season, the Abalone Eight Treasure Duck ($208) is a true showstopper and luxurious centrepiece. The tender duck is slow-braised with an impressive array of ingredients – abalone, sea cucumber, conpoy, pork, chestnut, mushroom and lotus seed. Rich in both flavour and symbolism, the dish embodies unity, prosperity and heartfelt blessings, making it perfect for meaningful reunion meals and festive gifting.

Pre-orders for Lunar New Year takeaways run from 1 January to 10 February 2026. Collection and delivery are available from 19 January to 16 February 2026, 11am to 7pm. For order and delivery enquiries, please visit https://celebrations.carltonhotel.sg/, contact the festive desk at +65 6349 1292 or email restaurants@carltonhotel.sg.

Pan-fried Sea Perch 3.8/5

The Pan-fried Sea Perch impressed with its beautifully crisp skin resting atop fat, buttery flesh. Simple yet satisfying, the fish was well-executed and paired nicely with the accompanying soy sauce, which added a subtle lift without overpowering the natural sweetness of the fish.

Housemade Soya Beancurd 4.5/5

Not to be missed is the Housemade Soya Beancurd, a standout dessert to end the meal on a gentle note. Wobbling smooth and silky, it carried a distinct soya fragrance that was both comforting and elegant – a quiet reminder that sometimes simplicity leaves the most profound impression.

For table reservations and enquiries, please contact Wah Lok at +65 6311 8188/ 8189, email wah.lok@carltonhotel.sg or visit https://www.carltonhotel.sg/dining/wah-lok.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant
Carlton Hotel Singapore
76 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189558
Tel: +65 6311 8188
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm
Sun: 11am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut through Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. Walk to the traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Bras Basah Road. Turn left and walk down Bras Basah Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining @ Scotts Road - Limited Time 1-for-1 Signature Tasting Menu For This Decemeber

Nestled within The White House along Scotts Road, INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining is a six-time MICHELIN Bib Gourmand awardee. Helmed by Penang-born Chef Heng Eng Ho, the menu showcases more than two decades of his refined understanding of Peranakan flavours. For this festive season, INDOCAFÉ is launching a 1-for-1 Signature Tasting Menu. Priced at $68, the 5-course Signature Tasting Menu highlights the restaurant’s must-try dishes and serves as an excellent introduction to its Peranakan offerings.

Trio Platter 4.5/5

We began with a Trio Platter of quintessential Peranakan snacks: Ngoh Hiang, Kueh Pie Tee, and Otah Otah. Each was delectable, but the Ngoh Hiang stood out for its well-executed meatiness and juiciness.

Fish Maw Soup 4/5

This was followed by the Soup of the Day, a light Fish Maw Soup that was homely and comforting.

Babi Pongteh 5/5

For mains, there is an option between Babi Pongteh or a $10 top-up for Wagyu Beef Rendang. The Babi Pongteh is prepared using Spanish Iberico pork, marinated in fermented soybean paste and stewed with potatoes, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, aromatic spices, onion, and garlic. The restrained use of fermented soybean paste kept the dish well-balanced without tipping into the common pitfall of excessive saltiness. The pork was flavourful and unctuous, as Iberico pork should be, offering a satisfying balance of meat to fat ratio. The accompaniments of potatoes, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots were tender and had thoroughly absorbed the rich, savoury gravy.

Wagyu Beef Rendang 4.8/5

The Wagyu Beef Rendang is a crowd favourite. Succulent and gelatinous, the beef was robust in flavour, with a deep, aromatic richness that clings beautifully to each piece.

Sayur Lodeh 3.8/5

The side dish, Sayur Lodeh, featured a thoughtful addition of fried tempeh for textural contrast. While enjoyable, I would have preferred the vegetables to be simmered longer for a softer, more traditional texture.

Fish Head Curry 4.8/5

If you’re a fan of Fish Head Curry, the add-on option is highly recommended. At $48++ (usual price $58++) for a whole fish head, it is excellent value. The fish was moist and flaky, and the curry was enjoyable without being overly rich in coconut milk. The brinjals and lady’s fingers were also cooked to the right doneness, remaining intact and fresh.

Kueh Salat 5/5, Bubur Cha Cha 3/5

For dessert, you can choose between Kueh Salat or Bubur Cha Cha. The Kueh Salat, with its light and creamy pandan custard layered over sticky glutinous rice, was the more satisfying of the two. The Bubur Cha Cha was decent but leaned more towards the ordinary.

This is my second visit to INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining, and I genuinely feel it’s an underrated spot for Peranakan cuisine. The food was even tastier than during my first experience, and the dining space, which feels both nostalgic and elegant, remains truly unmatched. 1-for-1 Signature Tasting Menu is available from 1 to 31 December 2025, only on weekdays for both lunch and dinner, excluding PH and eve of PH. Maximum of 8 guests per booking.

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.


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

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm -1030pm

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]

Xing Yue Xuan (星粤轩) @ Resorts World Sentosa - Jumbo Group’s First Foray into Premium Cantonese Cuisine

Xing Yue Xuan (星粤轩), located at Weave Mall in Resorts World Sentosa, marks Jumbo Group’s inaugural venture into premium Cantonese dining. Showcasing the artistry of traditional Cantonese cuisine while embracing modern refinement, the restaurant offers a repertoire of curated executive set lunches alongside an extensive à la carte menu that celebrates the depth and finesse of this much-loved cuisine.

Amuse Bouche 4/5

Dinner commences with an elegant Amuse Bouche, a delicate scallop and prawn salad encased in a crisp housemade kueh pie tee shell. Served with a ceremonial cup of Honeycomb Ruby Tea, a soothing blend of jujube and Formosa oolong, this refined pairing sets the tone for the meal.

Double-boiled Fish Maw & Kampung Chicken Soup 4.8/5

The Double-boiled Fish Maw & Kampung Chicken Soup ($38) exemplifies Cantonese soup mastery. Prepared through a meticulous two-hour steaming of old hen, pork, and chicken feet, followed by careful boiling, the broth develops a luxuriously creamy body. Enriched with premium fish maw, scallops, morel mushrooms, and wolfberries, the soup is deeply nourishing, offering layers of umami richness in every spoonful.

Dong Po Pork Belly in Hakka Style 4.8/5

The Dong Po Pork Belly in Hakka Style ($38 per pax) is a standout. Each portion of pork belly undergoes a precise, multi-step process — blanched, torched, steamed, and bound in a bamboo leaf string — before being braised for six hours in a proprietary soy sauce. The result is melt-in-the-mouth pork layered with flavours that pay homage to authentic Hakka culinary tradition.

Flambéed Drunken Live Prawns 4.5/5

The Flambéed Drunken Live Prawns ($48 per portion, 300g) deliver both spectacle and flavour. Premium live prawns are flambéed tableside in Er Guo Tou Baijiu before simmering in a herbal broth infused with goji berries and angelica root. Cooked in minutes, the prawns emerge juicy and aromatic, laced with subtle wine and herbal notes.

Xing Yue Xuan Fuss-Free Crab in Signature Black Pepper (Half Crab) 4.5/5

For crustacean lovers, the Xing Yue Xuan Fuss-Free Crab ($78 per pax, Half Crab) is not to be missed. Available in three renditions that pay tribute to JUMBO Group’s celebrated seafood heritage, diners can choose from the robust Signature Black Pepper, the iconic award-winning Chilli Crab, or an elegant steamed version topped with velvety custard egg and caviar. We opted for the Signature Black Pepper, where the punchy, aromatic spice balanced beautifully with the natural sweetness of the crab, delivering a dish that was both fiery and indulgent.

Whole 3-Head Abalone & Sea Cucumber in Fragrant Rice 4.2/5

Served in a sizzling hot stone pot, the Whole 3-Head Abalone & Sea Cucumber in Fragrant Rice ($68 per pax) impresses with its contrasting textures. The rice, wok-fried with a house soy blend, develops a smoky fragrance before being topped with tender sea cucumber and a whole 3-head abalone — a dish that marries comfort with luxury.

Classic Chinese Duo Pastry Platter 3.5/5

Ending on a sweet note, the Classic Chinese Duo Pastry Platter ($16) showcases rotating heritage-inspired creations. Options may include a tangy Fresh Vanilla Mousse with Passion Fruit Sauce or an Awakening Lion pastry with tangerine peel red bean filling, offering a refined conclusion to the meal.

Xing Yue Xuan successfully captures the essence of Cantonese fine dining while weaving in the JUMBO DNA of seafood mastery. Whether for a business lunch or a celebratory dinner, it’s a destination worth seeking out at Resorts World Sentosa.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xing Yue Xuan (星粤轩)
Weave Mall
Resorts World Sentosa
26 Sentosa Gateway
#B1-201
Singapore 098138
Tel: +65 80310096
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 1030pm

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

Tong Le Private Dining @ OUE Tower - Singapore’s Only Revolving Restaurant Welcomes New Senior Executive Chef

Perched atop OUE Tower, Tóng Lè Private Dining remains Singapore’s only revolving restaurant, but the panoramic views are just the beginning of its appeal. Celebrating a new chapter in both culinary vision and leadership, the restaurant welcomes Senior Executive Chef Dicky, a maestro with 36 years of international experience across 5 countries and 8 cities. Supported by a dedicated team, he introduces a fresh collection of contemporary Chinese menus that revive treasured recipes with exquisite finesse and creative flair.

Chef Dicky’s approach is both respectful and bold – honouring tradition while embracing reinvention. Guests can experience his creations through thoughtfully curated menus:
- Executive Lunch Menu from $68++
- Cloud Brocade Dinner Menu from $138++
- Vegetarian Whispers of the Earth Menu at $88++

Caviar, Black Truffle, Golden Croaker and Tofu 5/5

The meal opens with a show-stopping quartet. A tin of Kaluga Caviar, paired with a mother-of-pearl spoon, reveals a layer of Homemade Tofu and Putian Fujian Premium Seaweed beneath, a rare seasonal ingredient harvested by hand and prized for its umami sweetness. Next, a jet-black orb that appears to be a whole truffle is in fact deep-fried Black Truffle Tofu. It is crisp on the outside, silky within. Completing the ensemble is a Longjing tea-smoked Wild Golden Croaker, delivering a delicate smokiness and a lingering fragrance of fine tea.

Double-boiled Sea Cucumber in Enriched Fish Broth, Pickled Plum, Tomato 4.8/5

The Double-boiled Sea Cucumber in a refined fish broth with Chaoshan pickled plum and tomato is a masterclass in restraint. It is light yet layered, with savoury, umami, and tangy notes dancing delicately on the palate.

Braised Fish Maw in Noble ‘Tanfu’ Broth, Fine Chopped Coriander 4.5/5

In contrast, the Braised Fish Maw in Noble 'Tanfu' Broth is bold and textural. The viscous, collagen-rich soup is packed with silky fish maw strips, beautifully rounded off with fresh coriander.

Braised Wild Golden Croaker, Fresh Bean Curd Sheet, Iceberg Lettuce 4.2/5

Chef Dicky transports diners to 1980s Hong Kong with this nostalgic Cantonese classic. Simmered in an intensely flavoured chicken consommé, the Braised Wild Golden Croaker is buttery and soft, nestled on fresh bean curd sheets and iceberg lettuce. The sauce alone deserves its own spotlight, perfect with a bowl of steamed white rice.

Sweet and Sour Lion's Mane Mushrooms 4.2/5

A delightful vegetarian take on the classic sweet and sour pork. Meaty Lion’s Mane Mushrooms are enveloped in a light batter, fried to perfection, and tossed in a well-balanced sweet and sour sauce that’s sticky, tangy, and deeply satisfying.

Claypot Foie Gras Fried Rice, Saga-gyu, Black Pepper, Cramelized Soy Sauce 4.2/5

The Claypot Foie Gras Fried Rice is a triumph of texture and flavour, smoky from caramelised soy sauce, buttery with Saga-gyu, and deeply savoury from cubes of foie gras. The pièce de résistance? Crispy scorched rice at the bottom of the pot.

Sauerkraut Consomme Braised Vermicelli 4.2/5

The humble-looking Sauerkraut Consomme Braised Vermicelli hides a powerhouse of flavour. Made with springy noodles from Hsinchu, Taiwan, and braised in a tangy, spicy sauerkraut consommé, this dish surprises with its rich infusion, complemented by sweet king prawns, scallops, and slivers of Chinese celery.

Pumpkin and Jasmine Pudding, Black Rice Syrup, Coconut Milk 4/5

Shaped like a golden peony, the Pumpkin and Jasmine Pudding is surrounded at the table with a moat of black rice syrup and coconut milk – reminiscent of bubur pulut hitam, reimagined with floral, delicate elegance.

Creamy Strawberry, Lychee, Raspberry Crisp, Rose Cookie 4.5/5

Inspired by Pierre Hermé’s Ispahan, this dreamy dessert layers Strawberry Cream, Lychee, Raspberry Crisps, and Rose Cookie crumble, a French-Asian hybrid that’s as intricate as it is indulgent.

Cave Bird's Nest in Tung Lok's Ruby Peach Tea Syrup, Kiwi Jelly, Fresh Fox Nuts 4.2/5

A visual marvel, the Cave Bird's Nest dessert features green kiwi jellies, fox nuts, and microgreens, bathed in ruby peach tea syrup. It’s like tasting a painting by Monet.

Double-boiled Egg Custard in Young Coconut, Cave Bird's Nest, Gula Apong 5/5

The Double-boiled Egg Custard in Young Coconut comprises of snow-white egg custard, steamed in a young coconut and topped with Cave Bird’s Nest and Gula Apong from Sarawak, is delicate, comforting, and luxuriously sweet with a hint of smokiness.

Chef Dicky’s menus at Tóng Lè Private Dining elevate Chinese cuisine to a new pinnacle – not just with premium ingredients, but through stories, textures, and deep respect for culinary heritage. Whether you're revisiting beloved classics or exploring novel flavour pairings, each course is a celebration of time-honoured tradition reinterpreted for the modern palate.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tong Le Private Dining
OUE Tower
Level 10
60 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049322
Tel: +65 6634 3233
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]