Feng Xiao Zhang Hotpot (冯校长成都老火锅) hails from Chengdu, China, opening its first international location in Singapore, in the heart of Chinatown. The restaurant sits on the second floor along the bustling New Bridge Road.
The moment we stepped inside the restaurant, we were immediately transported to Chengdu. The meticulously curated vintage-themed decor and atmosphere were incredibly vibrant and fun.
Condiments
For $2 per person, diners can access the Condiments station, featuring curated sauce combinations.
Four Flavours Soup Base 4.8/5
We went straight for the Four Flavours Soup Base ($22) to try everything— the Mushroom Broth, Chicken Broth, Gui Zhou Sour Broth, and Ma La Broth. The spice level for Ma La is customisable. True to the staff's advice, the medium-spice Ma La packed a fiery punch.
Mushroom Broth
It was difficult to pick a favourite as each broth offered its distinct, well-rounded flavours. The Mushroom Broth had a lovely herbal note.
Gui Zhou Sour Soup
The Gui Zhou Sour Soup was a standout, with its tangy, savoury profile that strayed from the typical tomato base. It was a delightful surprise, even for a non-tomato fan like me.
The ingredient menu was exciting, as it offered a mix of classic and more adventurous options, including special cuts of meat and innards, preserved sausage, Sichuan soft tofu, and many more. Some of my dining companion and I's favourite ingredients are shared below.
Bamboo Pith Shrimp
The Bamboo Pith Shrimp ($12) had prawn paste stuffed in each bamboo pith, which soaked up the broths thoroughly.
Gong Cai Pork Ball
The Gong Cai Pork Ball ($9) had bits of crunchy gong cai vegetables mixed in, which elevated its texture.
Mushroom with Pork
Next was the Mushroom with Pork ($12), which seemed simple but was juicy and well-seasoned.
Garlic Pork Rib
Other than the meat slices, the garlicky and tender Garlic Pork Rib ($12) was a good addition.
Bacon Tangyuan
The Bacon Tangyuan ($9) caught our eye right away when we ordered. They are served frozen, but just a few minutes of boiling will give you soft tangyuan balls stuffed with bits of chopped vegetables and bacon.
Chongqing Sweet Potato Wide Vermicelli
Chongqing Sweet Potato Wide Vermicelli ($6) is always one of my staples to order at hotpots. The ones here cook quickly and retain a nice chewiness.
Feng Bao Zi 4.2/5
Besides the hotpot, Feng Xiao Zhang also offers several cooked items, such as Fried Rice and Fried Meats, and what we anticipated most, the Feng Bao Zi ($7). These handmade baos were freshly made and steamed right before serving. Each one contained a good amount of savoury juice and tender meat.
Waxberry Lychee Iced Tea 4.5/5
We were initially sceptical of the beverages because they looked sweet, but we were pleasantly surprised by both choices. The Waxberry Lychee Iced Tea ($5.80) was utterly refreshing, with a mild sweetness and a berry tang.
So Big Fresh Fruit Tea 4.5/5
The So Big Fresh Fruit Tea ($7.80) was served in a mini tub and was equally refreshing. The tropical mix of fruits was well balanced, perfect for washing down all the spice.
Matcha Milk Tofu 2/5
We moved on to desserts to wrap up the meal. Unfortunately, the Matcha Milk Tofu ($7.80) was bland and artificial, although the texture itself was smooth.
Sichuan Jelly 4/5
The Sichuan Jelly ($4) fared much better. It was refreshing and mildly sweet, with a mixture of toppings such as raisins, hawthorn flakes, red beans, and watermelon.
Overall, Feng Xiao Zhang Hopot delivered a great hotpot experience with bold and authentic flavours.
Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.
Feng Xiao Zhang Hotpot (冯校长成都老火锅)
195 New Bridge Road
Level 2
Singapore 059423
Tel: +65 9106 1680
Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown MRT (NE, DT Line)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 5am
Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk to New Bridge Road. Turn right onto New Bridge Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]
