Lao Beijing @ Square 2 (Novena) - New 6-Course Ultimate Roast Duck Indulgence Set at $88++

Lao Beijing at Novena Square 2 has served classic Chinese dishes since 1996, with a menu that blends familiar favourites with contemporary interpretations. For a limited time, it is introducing its Ultimate Roast Duck Indulgence Set, a six-course meal designed for weekday gatherings with family, friends or colleagues.

Ultimate Roast Duck Indulgence Set 4.2/5

Priced at $88++ for 4 persons, the set is available for both lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday. Diners can also top up just $1++ per person for a bowl of Hot and Sour Soup.

Cherry Tomato

Smashed Cucumber

The meal begins with two appetisers: the Cherry Tomato Infused with Roselle and Smashed Cucumber with Sesame Oil, Garlic and Chilli. The Smashed Cucumber ($7 à la carte) was garlicky, while the chilled Cherry Tomatoes ($8 à la carte) were an appetising start, sweet with a tang from the roselle.

Hot and Sour Soup with Shredded Chicken

For just $1++ per person with the set, the Hot and Sour Soup with Shredded Chicken makes a comforting addition. The thick, warm broth has spicy, tangy notes, with tofu, shredded chicken, carrots, and black fungus.

‘Mapo’ Tofu with Sliced Fish

The ‘Mapo’ Tofu with Sliced Fish ($18 à la carte) brings together silky tofu and tender fish slices in a fermented bean paste-based sauce with minced meat. It had a savoury, mildly spicy profile that paired well with rice.

Stir-Fried ‘Kai Lan’ with Minced Garlic

Next was the Stir-Fried ‘Kai Lan’ with Minced Garlic, a simple dish done well, with crunchy kai lan. The seasoning was just right.

Lao Beijing Peking Duck

The highlight of the set is naturally the signature Lao Beijing Peking Duck, made using premium Irish ducks from Silver Hill Farm in Ireland. The duck undergoes extensive preparation, including marination and air-drying, before roasting. We enjoyed the contrast of the crisp skin and tender meat, and found it perfect for those who enjoy their Peking Duck with a fattier bite. The Peking Duck is also available separately at $98 for a whole duck or $55 for half.

Signature Claypot Rice

Pair all the dishes with Lao Beijing’s Signature Claypot Rice, which is slow-cooked in duck bone broth for a deep savoury flavour. Toppings of coriander, spring onions, and crispy shallots added extra aroma, and we appreciated how well the rice was cooked.

Firecracker Chicken Nest 4/5

On top of the set, we also tried the Firecracker Chicken Nest ($30). The deep-fried diced chicken is tossed in dried chilli and peppercorns, served with “chilled eggs” made of sweet mango purée. We liked the chunkier bites of meat, though the mango purée could be a touch less sweet.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣) and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.



Lao Beijing
Square 2
#02-80
10 Sinaran Drive
Singapore 307506
Tel: +65 6358 4466
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Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 5.30pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 5pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Novena MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Westlake @ Queen's Road - Celebrates 52nd anniversary with 52% off Selected Heritage Favourites And New Dishes

Located along Queen’s Road in a charming old neighbourhood, Westlake is celebrating 52 years of heritage with a lineup of new dishes, alongside attractive discounts on selected items from 13 April to 29 May 2026.

Braised Pork with Pau 4.2/5

For decades, Westlake has been synonymous with its Braised Pork with Pau, which some may recall picking up on several occasions from its takeaway kiosks. At the restaurant, you can now enjoy this signature dish ($20 for 5pcs, $37 for 10pcs) in a more comfortable setting. The pork belly featured a pleasing fat-to-meat ratio, coated in a rich, flavoursome sauce that was thick yet not overwhelming. The lotus pau is specially made with a firmer structure to better hold the filling. While satisfying, I would have preferred a more melt-in-your-mouth texture and a slightly thicker cut of pork.

Hot & Sour Soup 4.8/5

Another community favourite is Westlake’s Hot & Sour Soup ($16/$20/$28), and it’s easy to see why. Made with house-brewed chicken stock simmered for 24 hours and brimming with black fungus, shiitake mushrooms, and tofu, the soup was deeply flavourful with a pleasing consistency and well-balanced heat. Once adjusted with vinegar to taste, it easily ranks among the better renditions I’ve had in a long time.

Butter King Prawn 4.2/5

Butter King Prawn ($38/$58/$76) impressed with prawns topped with a generous heap of butter-fried coconut flakes. While the prawns leaned slightly dry, the aromatic coconut flakes more than made up for it. The highlight was biting into the crispy prawn head together with the fragrant topping.

Claypot Hokkien Mee 3/5

Served in an earthenware pot, the Claypot Hokkien Mee ($10/$16/$22) features wok-fried noodles simmered to absorb flavour. It was hearty and generously packed with prawns, squid, pork, and vegetables. However, it would have been better with a deeper wok hei and a less pronounced alkaline note in the noodles.

Westlake Roast Chicken 4.5/5

A definite crowd-pleaser and a dish that regulars come back for, the Westlake Roast Chicken ($25/$43) is expertly fried whole, achieving a golden, crispy skin while retaining juicy meat.

Stir-Fried Beancurd with Green Chilli 3/5

Among the new dishes, the Stir-Fried Beancurd with Green Chilli ($15/$19/$23) features tofu cooked in an umami-rich black bean sauce with minced meat. The dish is finished with a house sauce, originally crafted by Westlake’s founder and now passed down to the third generation. While the tofu itself was flavourful, the addition of green chillies felt somewhat unnecessary.

Claypot Chilli Frog Leg 4/5

A more uncommon local offering, the Claypot Chilli Frog Leg ($25/$37/$48) is cooked with quintessential aromatics such as chilli padi, dried chilli, onion, ginger, and spring onion. Interestingly, it is paired with chee cheong fun instead of the usual porridge. While I have limited experience with this dish, enthusiasts might miss the comforting element that porridge typically brings.

Minced Pork with Bean Sauce Noodle 5/5

My favourite among the new offerings is the founder’s treasured recipe of Minced Pork with Bean Sauce Noodle ($10/$16/$20). Tossed with spinach and shredded cucumber, the noodles are coated in a savoury, not overpowering fermented bean paste. Surprisingly light on the palate, this dish truly delighted.

Tau Sah Pancake 3.5/5

To end on a sweet note, we had the Cantonese classic Tau Sah Pancake ($22). Thinner and crispier than most versions I’ve tried, it still delivered a satisfying finish to the meal.

To mark its 52nd anniversary, Westlake is offering diners 52% off selected dishes from 13 April to 29 May 2026. The promotion features Butter King Prawn, Stir-Fried Beancurd with Green Chilli, Claypot Chilli Frog Leg, and Minced Pork with Bean Sauce Noodle. The promotion is available all day from Monday to Wednesday, and during lunch hours (11am to 2pm) on Thursday and Friday

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.


Westlake
Block 4 Queen’s Road
#02-139
Singapore 260004
Tel: +65 6474 7283
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Nearest MRT: Farrer Road (CC Line)

Operating Hours:
Daily: 11am – 2pm, 5pm – 9pm

Direction:
Alight at Farrer Road MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Le Ma Dumpling (樂妈饺子) @ Jewel Changi Airport - Jumbo Dumplings & Comforting Noodles

Le Ma Dumpling (樂妈饺子), the latest concept by Paradise Group, has opened at Jewel Changi Airport, offering a family-friendly dining space with jumbo-sized dumplings and hearty mains at wallet-friendly prices.

Poached Dumpling 4/5

Pan-Fried Dumpling 4/5

The highlight here is undoubtedly the dumplings. Each is generously handcrafted with a filling that weighs 28g, truly jumbo compared to the usual 15–22g dumplings. Diners can choose from six flavours — Pork & Corn, Pork & Cabbage, Pork & Chives, Prawn & Corn, Prawn & Cabbage, and Prawn & Chives. They are available either poached or pan-fried. Prices range from $3.95 to $5.45 for 5 pieces, making them a value-for-money treat.

Pork & Cabbage Dumpling Soup 4.2/5

Among the offerings, my personal favourite is the Dumpling Soup ($5.90). While there are only two choices — Pork & Cabbage ($5.90) and Prawn & Cabbage ($6.90), having dumplings in a clear, warm broth makes for a more comforting and hearty meal. I do wish there were more soup flavour options to choose from.

Signature "Dan Dan" Noodle 4.5/5

The Signature “Dan Dan” Noodle ($5.90) is a must-try. The chewy noodles are paired with a mildly spicy broth that’s robust and appetising, perfect for slurping. The addition of minced pork gives the bowl extra depth and makes it even more satisfying.

Shredded Pork Hot & Sour Soup 2.8/5

The Shredded Pork Hot & Sour Soup ($4.90), however, was less impressive. It lacked the punchy balance of heat and tang expected from this dish and can be skipped in favour of the other highlights.

Shrimp Egg Fried Rice 3.5/5

The Shrimp Egg Fried Rice ($8.50) was well-executed. The fluffy rice grains are lightly coated with egg and accented by the sweetness of shrimp. Simple but comforting.

Overall, Le Ma Dumpling makes for a convenient and affordable dining stop at Jewel, especially for families and travellers seeking a quick yet satisfying meal. The jumbo dumplings and noodles are the standouts, while some dishes still have room for improvement.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Le Ma Dumpling (樂妈饺子)
Jewel Changi Airport
78 Airport Boulevard
#02-243
Singapore 819666
Tel: +65 8279 3101
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Changi Airport MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Chopsuey Cafe @ Dempsey - Usher in Prosperity with an Exclusive Festive Menu

Chopsuey Cafe at Dempsey will present an exclusive Lunar New Year menu from 20 January to 12 February. The menu offers a fusion of contemporary flavours across an array of à la carte and vegetarian dishes alongside a thoughtfully curated set menu.

Lucky Lunar ‘Lo Hei’

Chopsuey Cafe’s signature Lucky Lunar ‘Lo Hei’ ($68/$88/$128), a vibrant mix of baby romaine, white radish, beetroot, carrot julienne, blueberries, pomegranate, pomelo, chunky cured salmon, toasted peanut crust, white sesame, and crispy wonton skin. The coarser toasted peanut crust added a delightful crunch, while extra virgin olive oil introduced a subtle herbaceous note that elevated this refreshing and textured dish.

Prawn Toasties 4.8/5

Among the starters, the Prawn Toasties ($19) stood out with their juicy king prawn paste. They offered chunky bites encased in an airy, perfectly crisp fried bun. Paired with a chili-dipping gravy, it was a harmonious and satisfying bite.

Crispy Shredded Duck Pancakes 4.5/5

The Crispy Shredded Duck Pancakes ($32) provided a creative twist on the classic Peking Duck. The shredded duck was tender and succulent, complemented by crispy bits and served with soft, chewy wraps that tied the elements together beautifully.

Hot & Sour Soup 2/5

The vegetarian menu offers a Hot & Sour Soup ($14) loaded with tofu, mushrooms, vegetables, vinegar, and a dash of chilli oil for a spicy kick. It was vinegary enough but left an aftertaste that didn't quite work for me.

Crispy Orange Kurobuta Pork 2.5/5

Taiwanese-Style Three Cup Beef Tenderloin 3/5

The menu offers a wide selection of mains. The Crispy Orange Kurobuta Pork ($32), an elevated take on sweet and sour pork, delivered succulent pork morsels, but the overly thick and sweet sauce was overwhelming. The Taiwanese-Style Three Cup Beef Tenderloin offered a slightly more balanced flavour, though it leaned towards sweetness as well.

Steamed Whole Fish 3/5

The Steamed Whole Fish ($112) featured the Catch of the Day, classic with crispy ginger, julienned scallions, and premium soy sauce.

Steamed Free-Range Chicken with Herbs & Hua Tiao Wine 4/5

The Steamed Free-Range Chicken with Herbs & Hua Tiao Wine ($36) was simple but delivered light and comforting flavours with aromatic herbs and the depth of premium Hua Tiao wine. This homely dish, reminiscent of chicken soup, was particularly memorable.

Wok Breath Fried Hor Fun 3/5

Lobster Fried Rice 3/5

Classic dishes like the Wok Breath Fried Hor Fun with Fish ($26) impressed me with a decent amount of wok hei, though the fish slices were rather bland. The Lobster Fried Rice ($42) featured chunks of lobster and boasted distinct grains and flavorful notes from cai po and garlic, but the unexpected sweetness overshadowed its savoury profile.

Stir-Fried Crunchy Leafy Greens 4.5/5

Stir-Fried Crunchy Leafy Greens ($16) featured a mix of Chinese kale and mini chard that were just given a quick sauté with fried garlic cloves, white pepper, and rice wine, preserving the freshness of the greens.

Golden Pineapple Tart 3.5/5

The Lunar New Year-themed menu features a special cocktail and a dessert — the Golden Prosperity Punch ($20) and Golden Pineapple Tart ($18).

The Joyous Reunion Set Menu ($138++ per pax) is designed for groups with a minimum of four pax, includes three delectable starters, a comforting soup dish, and three seasonal main dishes, all served with a side of vegetables and your choice of rice or noodles. A specially curated vegetarian menu is also available.

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.


Chopsuey Cafe
10 Dempsey Road
#01-23
Singapore 247700
Tel: +65 6708 9288
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 11am - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 1130pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Take the stairs up to Dempsey Road. Walk up to Dempsey Hill. Walk right to the back of the cluster. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]