Showing posts with label Hotpot. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hotpot. Show all posts

Saturday, May 23, 2026

Quan Hotpot @ Hotel Michael - A Refined Five Elements Hotpot Experience

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Located at Resorts World Sentosa, Quan Hotpot is a contemporary dining concept that offers a refined take on the traditional hotpot experience. Situated within Hotel Michael (Level 1), the restaurant emphasises balanced flavours and sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, guided by the Chinese philosophy of the Five Elements — sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, and salty.

Departing from the communal pot format, Quan Hotpot serves its broths individually, allowing diners to tailor their experience from the outset. The selection is diverse, ranging from the rich Signature Singapore Laksa Broth to the comforting Traditional Congee Broth and Collagen Herbal Chicken Broth. Those who prefer bolder flavours can opt for the Classic Sichuan Mala Broth, while the Heritage Suan Cai Broth offers a tangy, fermented profile.

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I went with the Heritage Suan Cai Broth, which delivered a well-balanced tanginess that was both appetising and comforting. The acidity of the preserved mustard greens was gentle yet distinct, lifting the flavours of the accompanying ingredients without overpowering them. It proved to be a versatile base that grew more flavourful as the meal progressed.

Once the broth is selected, the experience becomes interactive with a selection of condiments presented tableside. Diners can mix their own dipping sauces to suit their preferences, adding another layer of personalisation to the meal.

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The Signature 4 Element Hotpot Set Menu ($68 per person) offers a comprehensive spread, covering premium meats, seafood, vegetables, housemade items, noodles, and dessert. It is a well-curated selection that balances variety and quality.

The Premium Meat Selection includes Organic Australian Pork Belly, US “CAB” Beef Short Plates, Kampong Chicken Thigh, and Sliced Salt Grass-Fed Australian Lamb Shoulder. Each was thinly sliced for quick cooking, with the beef short plate standing out for its tenderness and marbling, while the pork belly offered a satisfying balance of fat and lean.

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The Premium Fresh Seafood Selection features Live Tiger Prawns, Hokkaido Scallops, Fish Slices, and Live Korean Abalone. The prawns were firm and naturally sweet, while the scallops were plump and delicate. The abalone added a touch of indulgence, with a tender bite and subtle briny sweetness.

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The Vegetable Selection was equally satisfying, comprising Bok Choy, Napa Cabbage, Spinach, King Oyster and Shiitake Mushrooms, along with Beancurd Roll, Silken Tofu, Potato, and Sweet Corn. Fresh and vibrant, the assortment provided a good balance to the meal’s richer components.

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A highlight in both presentation and texture is the 5 Elements Fish Noodles, served in striking hues of orange, purple, yellow, black, and green. Beyond their visual appeal, the noodles offered a delightful chew and springy bite, making them a fun addition to the hotpot.

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The dessert was less impressive. The Flamed Meringue Ice Cream arrived with a theatrical flourish but leaned overly sweet, overshadowing the ice cream beneath. The Fresh Fruit platter provided a lighter finish, though the fruits lacked the sweetness expected to round off the meal on a stronger note.

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Overall, Quan Hotpot delivers a polished and thoughtfully executed hotpot experience. Its focus on individual broths, quality ingredients, and a balanced flavour philosophy sets it apart, making it a compelling option for those seeking a more refined take on this comforting dining tradition.

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Note: This is an invited tasting.


Quan Hotpot
Hotel Michael
Level 1
8 Sentosa Gateway
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6577 6665
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 5pm - 1030pm

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


Thursday, April 30, 2026

Shabu Days @ Bukit Panjang - Affordable Solo Shabu-Shabu Sets from S$14.90

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Tucked within the bustling Kopitiam Food Hall at Hillion Mall, Shabu Days presents a personal shabu-shabu concept that is both comforting and convenient, ideal for a quick midday recharge or a fuss-free dinner. The concept of solo hotpot dining is executed with thoughtful precision here, offering well-balanced sets that feel both nourishing and accessible for everyday indulgence.

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Starting from an approachable S$14.90, each set at Shabu Days is designed to deliver a complete and satisfying meal. Diners can choose from nine cut-to-order mains, spanning from classic options such as Chicken Thigh ($14.90), Pork Collar ($16.90) and Beef Brisket ($19.90) to more premium selections like Australian Wagyu ($29.90), Japanese A5 Wagyu ($39.90), and the Seafood Treasure Platter ($29.90). The variety ensures there is something for every palate and occasion.

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Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll

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Pork Collar

During our visit, we opted for the Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll and Pork Collar. Sliced upon order, the meats showcased beautiful colour and marbling, immediately hinting at their quality. The Japanese A5 Wagyu, in particular, was richly marbled, delivering a buttery tenderness and depth of flavour that melted effortlessly with each swish in the broth. The Pork Collar, on the other hand, offered a satisfying balance of lean meat and delicate fat, remaining juicy and flavourful after cooking.

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Bonito Kombu Broth 4.2/5

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Tangy Tomato Broth 4.2/5

Complementing the meats is a selection of nourishing broths, each bringing its own distinct character to the experience. The Bonito Kombu broth stood out with its clean, umami-rich profile, layered with the subtle sweetness of kombu and the smokiness of bonito. The Herbal Angelica broth offered a gentle, comforting herbal note, while the Tangy Tomato provided a light, refreshing acidity that brightened the meal. For those seeking bolder flavours, the Sukiyaki broth paired with a pasteurised egg delivers a sweet-savoury richness. In contrast, the Spicy Umami broth caters to those who prefer a more robust and punchy base.

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Each set is accompanied by a thoughtfully assembled Yasai Garden Bowl, featuring a colourful medley of seasonal vegetables, including green and red coral lettuce, enoki and shimeji mushrooms, and carrot and pumpkin. This not only adds vibrancy to the meal but also balances the richness of the meats with freshness and texture. Diners can further customise their set with a choice of carbohydrates, Calrose white rice, ramen or udon alongside the "Three Treasures" of kinchaku, mini chikuwa and gyoza, rounding out the meal with additional variety.

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A highlight of the Shabu Days experience is the signature DIY Egg Risotto (add $3.50). Using the remaining broth, diners can transform it into a comforting, risotto-style dish by adding rice, a pasteurised egg, and condiments. This interactive finale is both satisfying and resourceful, allowing the broth's flavours to culminate in a warm, hearty finish.

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Overall, Shabu Days delivers a well-executed solo hotpot experience that strikes a fine balance between quality, value and convenience. With its curated sets, quality ingredients and comforting flavours, it is a concept that invites repeat visits, whether for a quick solo meal or a casual, satisfying indulgence.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shabu Days
Kopitiam Food Hall
Hillion Mall
17 Petir Road
#02-15-20
Singapore 678278
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Bukit Panjang (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bukit Panjang MRT station. Take Exit A2. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]


Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Mr Triple Hotpots (三锅先生) @ Jalan Sultan - A Taste of Northern China with Traditional Copper Pot & Lamb Spine Hotpot

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Located along the bustling stretch of Jalan Sultan, Mr Triple Hotpots (三锅先生) offers a robust selection of Northern Chinese specialities, including a variety of hotpot styles and Jinzhou-style BBQ. From the traditional Beijing copper pot to the hearty lamb spine hotpot, the concept here goes beyond the usual hotpot experience commonly found in Singapore.

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Classic Beijing Copper Pot 4/5

We began our meal with the Classic Beijing Copper Pot, a style deeply rooted in Northern Chinese dining culture. Unlike the typical flavourful broths we are accustomed to, the pot uses plain water in a charcoal-fired copper chimney vessel. The design ensures a consistent, high heat, ideal for flash-cooking thinly sliced meats. This minimalist approach allows the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine, with the dipping sauces playing a crucial role in elevating each bite.

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To complement the pots, we ordered a selection of sliced beef, lamb, and pork, along with bamboo shoots. Each ingredient cooks quickly in the boiling water, retaining its inherent freshness and texture. One particularly interesting accompaniment was the pickled garlic, which was new to me. Its tangy and slightly pungent profile works surprisingly well as a palate cleanser, refreshing the taste buds between bites and preparing you for the next round of indulgence.

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Lamb Spine Pot 4.2/5

In addition to the copper pot, we also tried the Lamb Spine Pot (羊蝎子), a dish that may sound intimidating at first. The direct translation can be misleading, but it actually refers to the lamb spine, named for its resemblance to a scorpion’s tail. This was my first encounter with the dish, and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The pot is richly flavoured with spices, and the lamb spine is chopped into chunky pieces, similar to oxtail. The meat is tender and gelatinous, while the radish in the pot soaks up the deeply savoury broth beautifully. Diners can also add additional raw ingredients into the pot, transforming it into a more familiar hotpot experience.

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Lamb Skewer 4.2/5

To kickstart the meal while waiting for the hotpot to come to a boil, we had the Lamb Skewers. Grilled to a slight char, the skewers were tender, juicy, and packed with aromatic spices, delivering a fragrant, satisfying bite. It is a great addition to the meal, especially for those looking for something cooked and ready to enjoy immediately.

Overall, Mr Triple Hotpots offers a refreshing take on hotpot dining by showcasing traditional Northern Chinese styles that are less commonly seen locally. Whether it is the simplicity of the Beijing copper pot or the bold flavours of the lamb spine hotpot, the experience here is both unique and comforting — perfect for those looking to explore something different beyond the usual hotpot options in Singapore.


Mr Triple Hotpots (三锅先生)
61 Jalan Sultan
Singapore 198980
Tel: +65 8039 1818
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 4pm - 6am

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge and walk to the end. Continue onto Jalan Sultan until the traffic junction of North Bridge Road and Jalan Sultan. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]


Monday, March 2, 2026

Drim Gold @ Resorts World Sentosa — Singapore's First Cave-Inspired Korean Steakhouse

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Drim Gold marks a confident and polished addition to the dining line-up at WEAVE, the newest lifestyle and dining enclave within Resorts World Sentosa. What sets Drim Gold apart from its predecessor is sheer scale and ambition. This is Singapore's first Korean steakhouse to merge a dramatic, large-scale cave-inspired interior with refined modern Hanok architecture. You enter through a sculpted stone passageway, its textured walls and warm concealed lighting immediately slowing your pace, as if inviting you to leave the bustle of the island behind entirely. Inside, wooden frameworks, layered fabric panels, and raw stone surfaces coexist in a balance that feels simultaneously grounded and quietly luxurious. At its core, Drim Gold champions premium Korean produce, from prized Hanwoo beef to Jeju abalone, framed within a menu that balances indulgence with restraint.

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Kimchi Scampi 4.2/5

Kimchi Scampi comprises two sashimi-grade scampi, arriving plump and glistening. A staff member torches them lightly tableside, just a quick pass of flame that barely kisses the surface. The scampi stays almost raw within, springy and sweet, with that fresh oceanic snap that only top-quality shellfish delivers. The kimchi XO sauce adds depth and umami, delivering a savoury punch without overwhelming the delicate shellfish.

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Jeju Jeonbok Butter Gui4.2/5

Jeju Jeonbok Butter Gui comes with fresh Jeju abalone, gently seared in butter until just tender. Butter coats every surface in a glossy, golden finish, and a scattering of Parmesan cheese and roasted garlic melts into that fat to create a savoury, nutty glaze that clings with every bite. The combination sounds indulgent, and it is.

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Korean Beef Cut – Hanwoo 4.2/5

An exclusive selection of premium Hanwoo Beef, chosen for its fine marbling and clean, refined flavour. Grilled simply, the beef shines with its natural juiciness and tenderness, delivering a depth of flavour that lingers without heaviness. This is Korean beef at its best, allowing quality to speak louder than technique.

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Drim Prime Cut – Signature Galbisal 4/5

Iberico boneless ribs are grilled to reveal their signature nutty richness. Tender and juicy, with just enough char to enhance their natural fats, the Signature Galbisal is satisfying and comforting. While less nuanced than the Hanwoo cuts, it remains a crowd-pleasing option for those who enjoy a richer, meat-forward experience.

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Condiments and Vegetable Wrap

A classic accompaniment done well, featuring ssamjang, kimchi and an assortment of fresh vegetables for wrapping. The condiments add balance and contrast, cutting through the richness of the grilled meats while allowing diners to customise each bite according to their preference.

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DRIM Signature Noodle – Deulgireum Makguksu 4/5

Made with 100% buckwheat, the Deulgireum Makguksu cold noodles are light yet satisfying, coated in fragrant perilla seed oil that lends a gentle nuttiness. Give everything a good toss to fully release the aromas before digging in. A vegetarian option is available, making it a refreshing and inclusive way to round off the meal.

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Korean Beef & Vegetable Hot Pot – Eobok-Jaengban 4.2/5

The Eobok-Jaengban is a generous platter of Hanwoo beef brisket and beef shank, gently simmered in a rich Korean beef broth. The result is comforting and deeply flavourful, with the beef becoming tender as it enriches the soup. Served bubbling at the table, it is both hearty and communal, ending the meal on a warm and satisfying note.

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Overall, Drim Gold delivers a thoughtfully curated Korean dining experience that emphasises ingredient quality, subtle technique and polished presentation. It is a welcome addition to Resorts World Sentosa, appealing to diners seeking premium Korean flavours in a refined yet relaxed setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Drim Gold
Weave
Resorts World Sentosa
26 Sentosa Gateway
#B1-204
Singapore 098138
Tel: +65 65776256
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Vivocity Level 3 to Vivocity Monorail Station. Take the Monorail to Sentosa. Alight at Resorts World Station. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]