YUN NANS (云海肴) @ ION Orchard - New Outlet With Garden-Within-A-Restaurant Theme In The Heart Of Orchard Road

One of my favourite Chinese Restaurants, YUN NANS (云海肴), has opened its latest and fourth outlet at Ion Orchard, in the heart of Orchard Road. The new space seeks to transport diners into a garden landscape, designed as a scenic garden-within-a-restaurant.

Steam Pot Chicken Soup with Lily Bulb 4.2/5

With the new opening, the restaurant also introduced new dishes, such as the Signature Steam Pot Chicken Soup ($32.90) is given an elevation with the addition of Lanzhou Lily Bulb. The lily bulb gives the light and nourishing soup an extra lift in sweetness.

Pomelo Salad with Osmanthus Dressing 4/5

The Pomelo Salad with Osmanthus Dressing ($10.90) is a refreshing and invigorating salad tossed in house-made osmanthus honey sauce, giving it a sweet and fruity finishing. Fresh lily bulb is added for that extra crispiness.

Lychee Prawn Ball 4.2/5

Shaped and looking like lychee is the Lychee Prawn Ball ($20.80). It is freshness at its best. Fresh prawns are hand-beaten to a paste, shaped into bite-sized balls and deep-fried till crispy. While the exterior is crisp, the inside is crunchy, bursting with juicy tenderness from the prawns.

Hotplate Milky Tofu with Spicy Garlic Sauce 4.8/5

A delightful new dish that goes very well with a bowl of rice is the Hotplate Milky Tofu with Spicy Garlic Sauce ($16.80). The famed Yunnan milky tofu's pillowy soft texture is achieved using Shiping's unique spring water, drenched in an appetising specially concocted spicy garlic seafood sauce.

Sauteed Cabbage with Dried Chillies 4.5/5

Sometimes simple is the best, for example, the Sauteed Cabbage with Dried Chillies ($13.80). It is simply stir-fried with garlic, thin slices of pork and dried chillies, bringing out the natural sweetness of the cabbage.

Charcoal Grilled Chicken Skin and Gizzard 4.2/5

Marinated with an in-house mix of Yunnan's spices and grilled over a charcoal fire, the Charcoal Grilled Chicken Skin ($2.80 per skewer) and Gizzard ($2.80 per skewer) are packed with beautiful aroma from the spices. The skewers are deliciously good for a few glasses of beer.

Braised Fish Maw with Porcini Mushroom

The treasure pot of Braised Fish Maw with Porcini Mushroom ($42.80 / $52.80) comprises wild porcini mushrooms harvested from the highlands of Yunnan, fresh fish maw, Yunnan solo clove garlic, Chinese yam, and Yunnan Qiubei Chillies. The ingredients are braised over a slow flame, giving the fish maw a soft texture and retaining its collagen content.

Claypot Rice with Minced Beef and Crispy Red Bean $24.90

Lastly, wrapping up our dinner is the Claypot Rice with Minced Beef and Crispy Red Bean ($24.90). It is like the Chinese take on the donabe. The stewed rice is cooked in a special in-house sauce and served with crispy red beans, minced beef, ham, crisp-fried pork lard, spring onions and salted vegetables. Mix everything together to end the meal in a finale

Note: This is an invited tasting.


YUN NANS (云海肴)
ION Orchard
2 Orchard Turn
#B3-17
Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 65130828
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Path Restaurant @ Marina Bay Financial Centre - Paving The Path To A Vivid Modern Asian Dining Experience

Path Restaurant at Marina Bay Financial Centre is the newest and exciting opening in the F&B scene. The modern Asian restaurant is Chef Marvas Ng's inaugural restaurant in partnership with 1855 F&B. The food at Path is a multi-layered experience. Each dish is a seamless composition of French fine-dining techniques and presentation, using comforting East Asian flavours.

Wakamatsu Strait Yellowtail 4.2/5

Our dinner at Path started with the light and refreshing Wakamatsu Strait Yellowtail ($36). The clean tasting sashimi is brightened by the pickled Chinese artichoke and zucchinis, whetting the appetite for the next course.

Hand-Dived Hokkaido Scallop 4/5

Next is the Hand-Dived Hokkaido Scallop ($58) served and cooked at the tableside. The sashimi-graded scallops from Hokkaido are seared on a hot stone, topped with sakura ebi and cooked with a seaweed truffle sauce. The scallop was plump and sweet. The touch of theatrical completes the whole experience. It is paired with Pickled Kombu Pumpkin Salad, refreshing up the palate.

Premium Kuhlbarra Fish Maw 4.5/5

The Premium Kuhlbarra Fish Maw ($35) is a new culinary experience. It is my first time eating fish maw this way. It showcases the chef's philosophy incorporating the premium Asian ingredients in a collagen-rich Douxi caviar sauce with fresh greens. It is a dish packed with complex and rich flavours, finished with delightful textural finishing.

"Suan Ni" Hong Man 4/5

It is my first time having the eel with the spinal cord intact, and more even how it is cooked in a braising sauce that consists of garlic and Dou Ban Jiang. The "Suan Ni" Hong Man ($24) reminds me of the traditional Chinese dish, Suan Ni Bai Rou boosting with garlic aroma.

French Organic Cauliflower 4.2/5

This is probably the best cauliflower steak I have eaten. The French Organic Cauliflower ($24) is braised in vegetable stock till soft and tender and then deep-fried for exterior crispiness. A layer of mayonnaise is coated around the cauliflower and then topped with house-blend furikake and buckwheat seasoning for that extra lift in flavouring.

Crispy Japanese Amadai 4.5/5

The Crispy Japanese Amadai ($75) is a beautiful dish paired with black bean beurre blanc. It is the same sauce used for the fish maw dish. However, I find the sauce complements the fish better. In addition, the crispy scales on the skin provided that extra textural enjoyment.

Signature Butter-Roasted Herb-Brined French Poulet $72

A highlight at Path is the Signature Butter-Roasted Herb-Brined French Poulet ($72). Before roasting in the oven, the chicken is brined with Chinese herbs and then coated with 800 to 1000gm of butter. This result is a beautiful and tender chicken infused with butter and herbs. To appreciate the chicken further, you can have it with the butter chicken jus sauce and scallion salsa.

Daikon Sword Leaf Lettuce Roll

Chef Marvas's mum would always serve salad with roasted chicken as a child. So in creating this memory, Chef Marvas introduces the Daikon Sword Leaf Lettuce Roll to go with the Signature Butter-Roasted Herb-Brined French Poulet. The sharp and refreshing salad helps to cut the richness.

Signature Wild Forest Mushroom Donabe with Premium Japanese Rice 4.5/5

If you need your carbs, I would highly recommend the Signature Wild Forest Mushroom Donabe with Premium Japanese Rice ($38). Each mouthful of the fragrant rice is brimming with an abundance of flavours and textures from the oats, waxed meat, porcini mushrooms and vegetables.

Whiskey Bombe Alaska 4/5

Wrapping up our dinner, we have two desserts - Whiskey Bombe Alaska ($28) and French Canele ($18 for 3pc). Go for the whiskey ice cream served with Kirsch marmalade and meringue for something sweet and light. However, what intrigues me is the french canele made with Chinese Bai Jiu (white wine). Baked to perfection, it comes with a crusty exterior, soft and fluffy interior with a tad of the fragrant bai jiu.

French Canele 4.5/5

Path restaurant is definitely an exciting addition to the dining scene offering modern Asian cuisine. Chef Marvas brings a precise balance between French finesse and the East Asian ingredients that feel and taste sumptuous yet possess a reassuring familiarity that warms the heart.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Path Restaurant
Marina Bay Financial Centre
Tower 3
12 Marina Boulevard
Singapore 018982
Tel: +65 64430180
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Marina Bay (CC Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 6pm - 9pm
Sat: 6pm - 9pm
(Closed on Sun & PH)

Direction:
1) Alight at Marina Bay MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to traffic junction Boulevard Central and Marina Way. Cross the road. Walk to Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to Straits View. Cross the road. Walk to destinaiton. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Yan Restaurant (宴) @ National Gallery - Ushers In The Year Of The Tiger With A Repertoire Of Cantonese Delights

Yan Restaurant at National Gallery ushers in the Year of the Tiger with a repertoire of Cantonese delights available for dine-in and takeaway. From 1 January to 15 February 2022, you may choose to celebrate in the restaurant with its specially curated a la carte dishes and six sumptuous set menus (from $138 to $268 per pax), including an eight-course vegetarian set menu ($88 per pax). Else, enjoy the sumptuous festive dishes and treats at home, available for self-collection and delivery.

Abalone & Salmon with Gold Foil Lo Hei in ‘Shun De’ Style 4/5

Yan undeniably has one of the most interesting Yu Sheng that I have come across - Abalone & Salmon with Gold Foil Lo Hei in 'Shun De' Style (from $92, dine-in only). In place of the usual shredded carrots, radish and cucumber are a mountain of crispy vermicelli, topped with shredded purple and yellow sweet potatoes, pickled ginger, and gold flakes. The accompanying vibrant vegetables added much freshness and crunch to yu sheng. The abalone slices have also been braised in superior stock to bring in more flavour to the dish.

Yan Harvest Pen Cai 4.5/5

Another symbolic dish is Yan Harvest Pen Cai (from $325). It features layers of 18 delicacies such as 6-head abalone, sea cucumber, prawns, whole conpoy, collagen-rich pork tendons, king grouper fillet, scallops, roast pork, soya chicken, and roast duck. This Pen Cai is superior because each ingredient is individually prepared, then combined in a claypot and simmered in a flavourful braised duck sauce. One of my favourite pieces is the yam and lotus roots within, braised till tender and soaked with the flavoursome sauce.

Steamed Soon Hock Fillet 3.5/5

Fish symbolises ample surplus, and hence, one of the must-haves in this Lunar New Year spread would be this Steamed Soon Hock Fillet with Preserved Lemon Sauce. The fish is steamed together with house-made preserved lemon sauce, crispy garlic lemon slices, preserved vegetables, and a small amount of finely chopped chilli and lime juice. As a result, the delicate flavour of the fish was very much preserved and yet flavoursome at the same time, especially when finished with a handful of crispy golden garlic topping.

Wok-fried Local Lobster Tail 3/5

For some lucky red hues, some of the set menus include a lobster dish in the form of Wok-fried Local Lobster Tail with Crab Meat & Crab Roe Superior Sauce, or you may also order it a la carte at $23.80. Crab roe and crab meat are cooked in superior seafood stock and boiled till thickened and poured over the lobster before serving.

House Special Braised Pork Ribs Marinated with Dang Gui 4/5

House Special Braised Pork Ribs Marinated with Dang Gui (Dine-in only). The Dang Gui marinated pork ribs are shallow fried over a gentle heat then braised in dang gui sauce for an hour till reduced. Though I couldn't taste much of the Dang Gui, it was still a delicious piece of rib to be savoured upon.

Roast Crispy Suckling Pig 4/5

Roast Crispy Suckling Pig ($330) available for dine-in will give you the full experience. It is served in three ways for dine-in guests. The first way is to appreciate the crispy skin served with house-made pancakes, plum sauce, cucumber sticks, and spring onions. The second way is serving the suckling pig carved shoulder. The third way is like char siew, with the tender pork fillet marinated with barbecue sauce and baked with lemongrass.

Roasted Duck Marinated with Mandarin Peel Sauce 4/5

Another popular item of Yan is the Roasted Duck Marinated with Mandarin Peel Sauce (A la carte $22/ $44/ $88, takeaway whole duck $88). What's unique about the Mandarin Peel Sauce is that it is made with mandarins grown in Xin Hui, located in Guangdong. These Xin Hui mandarins have the most fragrant peels compared to mandarins from other regions, identified by their distinct aroma and bitter citrus flavour.

Double-boiled Morel ‘Yang Du Jun’ and Chicken Soup 4/5

For something nourishing, Double-boiled Morel 'Yang Du Jun' and Chicken Soup with Fish Maw is also incorporated into the set menus and also made available a la carte ($26). The double-boiled soup comes with fish maw, morels, chicken, and dried scallops. The morels are believed to help reduce phlegm and boost one's immunity by regulating the body's qi (vital energy).

Chilled Pumpkin Cream with Aloe Vera 4/5

The dessert is equally auspicious with Chilled Pumpkin Cream with Aloe Vera (Dine-in only) and Deep-Fried Sesame Rice Ball filled with lotus paste. Golden pumpkin signifies bountifulness and prosperity. Light and refreshing with aloe vera, it sums up the festive meal on a perfect note.

Yan spreads the festive joy with pre-order discounts till 8 January 2022 for selected takeaway items, with orders to be placed via the e-store: From 13 December 2021: 15% discount for Prosperity Treats (excluding the Golden Happiness Bamboo Tote). From 18 December 2021: 10% discount for Harvest Pen Cai (for takeaway only).

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


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

Exuberant Lunar New Year Creations to Usher In the Year Of The Ox At Goodwood Park Hotel

Goodwood Park Hotel has put together an exuberant Lunar New Year creations this year to usher in the Year of the Ox. Beloved signatures, as well as new goodies and lavish delicacies, are available from 24 January to 26 February 2021.

Auspicious Abundance "Lo Hei" 4.2/5

Over at Min Jiang Dempsey, the restaurant has created the new Auspicious Abundance "Lo Hei" ($268++ dine in/ $285.75nett takeaway) for both dine-in and takeaway. The elegantly present Yu Sheng comes in a crunchy rice cracker net filled with steamed Alaskan crab leg meat set atop fresh pomelo, peach, abalone and a medley of vegetables and fruit.

Double-boiled Abalone Soup and Eel Fish Maw 4.5/5

A new dish on the Chinese New Year menu is the Double-boiled Abalone Soup and Eel Fish Maw ($265.35 nett). I feel it a good change from the usual richly flavoured Chinese New Year dishes. In the light and refreshing soup, diners can also find handmade Prawn Dumplings and Minced Pork Balls in the claypot. It is available at Min Jiang at Goodwood Park for takeaway/delivery.

Braised Pork Belly, Meatball with Crabmeat in Beancurd Pockets and Sea Treasures in Claypot 4.5/5

Over at Min Jiang at Dempsey, diners who prefer the rich and robust flavour will enjoy the Braised Pork Belly, Meatball with Crabmeat in Beancurd Pockets and Sea Treasures in Claypot ($393.75 nett). Dig into the treasure pot to discover more delicacies such as braised Australian 10-head abalone, Chinese dried oysters, black moss, flower mushrooms, sea cucumbers, dried scallops and tientsin cabbage. The treasure pot is available for takeaway/delivery at Min Jiang at Dempsey.

Slow-braised Spicy Oxtail with Pickled Mustard and Enoki Mushrooms in Claypot 4.2/5

In conjunction with the Year of the Ox, Min Jiang at Goodwood Park Hotel has created the Slow-braised Spicy Oxtail with Pickled Mustard and Enoki Mushrooms in Claypot ($254.65 nett). The oxtail pieces are simmered in Sichuan peppercorn, fermented chilli bean paste, red chilli, star anise, cinnamon sticks, garlic, onions and carrots for 3 to 4 hours. The flavourful Sichuan spices though subtle, enhances the enjoyment of the oxtail that is cooked to tender.

Stewed Rice with Minced Chicken, Dried Scallops, Baby Abalone and Liver Sausage in Stone Pot 4/5

I find the Stewed Rice with Minced Chicken, Dried Scallops, Baby Abalone and Liver Sausage in Stone Pot a hybrid between our traditional claypot rice and poached rice. The flavoursome sauce enhanced the fluffy rice. The addition of dried scallops and liver sausage further elevating the whole enjoyment.

Besides the savoury dishes, Goodwood Park Hotel has also introduced new sweet and savoury Lunar New Year treats for takeaway/delivery. You will not be able to resist the addictive Maple Butter and Almond Garlic Lotus Root Chips ($36.80), 'Chiku' Arrowhead Chips ($28.80) and Crispy Kang Kong with Cheese & Sour Cream ($28.80).

Gong Xi 'Huat' Cai - Pineapple Crumble Tart 4.2/5

A delicious new creation Gong Xi 'Huat' Cai - Pineapple Crumble Tart ($78 nett, 700g). It is an innovative take of the traditional pineapple tart with a western twist. The tart measures 14cm in diameter is a marriage of buttery goodness and refreshing tart pineapple.

Bountiful Box of Sweet Blessings - Assorted Petit Pastries 4.5/5

Great for gifting and ending reunion dinners on a sweet note is the Bountiful Box of Sweet Blessings - Assorted Petit Pastries ($80 nett, 15pc). The stunning collection of 15 petit tarts and cakes in a medley of flavours will delight family and friends. Diners can look forward to flavours such as chocolate almond, pineapple crumble, baked cheesecake, orange chiboust and coffee vanilla.

Lucky Fortune Oranges - Kumquat Butter Cake and Marble Cake 4/5

Shaped into mandarin orange are the Lucky Fortune Oranges - Kumquat Butter Cake and Marble Cake ($138 nett, 2kg). The handcrafted mandarin oranges feature six kumquat butter cakes with a vanilla buttercream layer. Sitting underneath the mandarin oranges is a box made of moist marble cake covered in a rich red fondant decorated with symbolic greetings and design.

Fortune Koi Fish 'Nian Gao' with Red Bean Paste 4/5

A treat to both the palate and eyes is the Fortune Koi Fish 'Nian Gao' with Red Bean Paste ($45.80 nett, 8pc), filled with delectable smooth red bean paste.

Bak Kwa 4.5/5

You probably not known is the moreish Bak Kwa ($56 nett for 600g/ $88 nett for 1kg), marinated in a proprietary blend of spices and barbecued by the hotel's Chinese chefs and sold pre-cut in small slices.

The Lunar New Year Treats and Abundant Feasting Specials will be available for takeaway or delivery from The Deli and Min Jiang (Goodwood Park Hotel) as well as Min Jiang at Dempsey. Guests may place online orders at https://goodwoodparkfestive.oddle.me for delivery or self-collection.

Alternatively, guests can contact Min Jiang at (65) 6730 1704 / email: min_jiang@goodwoodparkhotel.com, or Min Jiang at Dempsey at (65) 6774 0122/ email: mjdempsey@goodwoodparkhotel.com, to place takeaway orders for self-collection only. Advance orders of five days are required for deliveries and takeaways. Availability for all Lunar New Year specials is from 24 January to 26 February 2021, and the last pre-order date is 21 February 2021, 12pm.