Choon Hoy Parlor @ Arcade The Capitol Kempinski - Bringing A Delicious New Chapter to Singapore Soul Food

After a successful debut at Beach Road in May 2024, Choon Hoy Parlor has now found its new home at Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski, sitting right next to Chef Dylan Ong’s other venture, The Masses. This latest iteration of the restaurant continues its heartfelt tribute to Chef Dylan’s beloved mother, with a concept rooted in nostalgic home-style cooking but given refined, modern interpretations.

Roti Bakar 3.5/5

The humble kaya toast gets a modern lift with the Roti Bakar ($8.90). Crisp toast is layered with coffee butter and salted egg kaya, then crowned with smoked lumpfish caviar. While this twist on the traditional Hainanese breakfast is inventive, the fusion of flavours may not be for everyone, but it certainly makes for a conversation starter.

Oriental Charcuterie Board 4/5

One of the more surprising highlights is the Oriental Charcuterie Board ($25.90). This dish cleverly reimagines the Western classic with an Asian twist — think house-cured XO lap cheong, duck liver sausage, waxed duck, and kampot pepper sausage, all paired with crispy you tiao and tempeh. A trio of punchy sides, including pickled mango with belachan, achar, and fu ru (fermented beancurd) labneh, adds bright acidity and complexity.

Marinated Kingfish 4.2/5

Inspired by hawker-style yusheng, the Marinated Kingfish ($19.90) features sashimi-style kingfish tossed in a tangy, spicy dressing of chilli oil, calamansi, and She De Baijiu. Topped with endives and fresh herbs, this is a refreshing, elegant dish that still pays homage to its street food roots.

Buah Keluak Typhoon Soft Shell Crab 4/5

A bold twist on the classic typhoon shelter-style crab, the Buah Keluak Typhoon Soft Shell Crab ($25.90) features lightly battered and deep-fried soft shell crab topped with a heady mix of stir-fried aromatics — garlic, shallots, dried shrimp, fresh chilli, and the unmistakably earthy buah keluak. It’s a punchy, umami-laden flavour bomb with layers of texture that make each bite immensely satisfying.

Same Same But Different Pork Satay 4.2/5

The Same Same But Different Pork Satay ($16.90/$31.90) is a clever reimagining of satay as a DIY experience. Grilled pork is served with popiah skin wraps, pineapple jam, peanut sauce, and fresh herbs — think of it as satay meets Korean BBQ. It's fun, flavourful, and highly customisable.

Chye Ber aka Vegetable Ends 5/5

One of the standout dishes of the evening was the Chye Ber aka Vegetable Ends ($16.90). It reminded me of a similar rendition from Liu Fu Si Fang Cai, but this version takes it up a notch. The assorted vegetable ends are stewed until meltingly tender in a tangy, garlicky gravy made with tamarind, tomato, and dried chilli, enriched further with the richness of pig trotter. The result is a deeply comforting dish with an elevated, robust flavour profile.

Morel Silkie Chicken Consomme 4.5/5

The Morel Silkie Chicken Consommé ($14.90/$34.90) offers delicate clarity and depth. The double-boiled broth, infused with morels, cordyceps, and honey dates, is reminiscent of traditional Chinese herbal soups but elevated in its finesse.

Mocha Prime Pork Ribs 4.2/5

Taking cues from the classic coffee pork ribs, Mocha Prime Pork Ribs ($25.90) ups the ante with 15-hour sous vide ribs, a sticky coffee glaze, and a velvety Vietnamese egg coffee espuma. Finished with pistachios and cocoa nibs, this dish brings creativity and decadence in equal measure.

Assam Stingray 4.8/5

A new menu addition, the Assam Stingray ($39.90), impressed with its bright, tangy Malay-style gravy packed with tamarind, lemongrass, and lime juice. The stingray was tender, and the medley of vegetables — brinjal, tomato, okra, and pineapple — lent a balanced sweet-sour complexity. It is one of the most complete and compelling dishes on the menu.

Claypot Dry Laksa 4.2/5

The Claypot Dry Laksa ($18.90/$33.90) is one for laksa lovers seeking something novel. Cooked in a claypot for added wok hei, the dish delivers intense laksa rempah flavour, bolstered by cockles, prawns, beansprouts, and sinful pork lard. It's a satisfying, punchy reinterpretation.

Trio of Orh Nee 4/5

We wrapped up the meal with the Trio of Orh Nee ($12.90), a modern reinterpretation of one of Chef Dylan’s cherished childhood desserts. This playful version features a medley of yam, sweet potato, and purple potato, enriched with brown butter and maple syrup for added depth. Served with coconut ice cream, chewy taro balls, ginkgo nuts, and a delicate pork lard tuile, it’s a whimsical yet heartfelt tribute to a classic heirloom recipe.

Baijiu & Lychee 4/5

Finishing on a tropical note, the Baijiu & Lychee ($13.90) is a layered dessert of pineapple chutney, lychee salsa, foams and sorbets, brightened with perilla and cooled with coconut ice cream. It’s refreshing, well-executed, and slightly boozy in a good way.

Choon Hoy Parlor continues to shine in its new location at Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski, delivering heartfelt, elevated renditions of familiar Asian comfort food. Chef Dylan Ong masterfully blends nostalgia with innovation, paying tribute to his mother’s home-cooked meals while introducing creative twists that surprise and delight. With its soulful flavours, thoughtful execution, and playful reinterpretations, Choon Hoy Parlor offers a dining experience that feels both personal and refreshingly modern — a true celebration of heritage with a contemporary edge.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Choon Hoy Parlor
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
15 Stamford Road
#01-84A
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6266 0061
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

665 Degrees Fahrenheit (665°F) @ Andaz Singapore - 'Tastes & Tunes', Strum Up an Unforgettable Night by Guitarist Dansen John

We had a thoroughly enjoyable night out at 665°F, which is perched on Level 38 of Andaz Singapore. Specialising in meat-centric cuisine with Southeast Asian influences, the restaurant boasts an imported PIRA oven from Barcelona. Fuelled by a mix of charcoal and wood, it reaches a searing 665 degrees Fahrenheit, imparting bold, authentic grilled flavours and the irresistible aroma of barbecue to every dish.

On this occasion, we were treated to the full experience of 665°F. First, we had our dinner in the main dining room, enjoying some of their signature dishes. Then, we adjourned to The Cellar for their 'Tastes & Tunes' experience, where guitarist Dansen John serenaded us.

The Cellar is an elegant, cosy, and dimly lit space that offers an extensive selection of Old and New World wines, all set against the stunning backdrop of Marina Bay. Within this understated, luxurious lounge setting, Dansen's soulful blend of jazz, blues, and acoustic pop creates a rich, contemporary soundscape. It's a sophisticated way to unwind, and guests can enjoy a curated selection of fine wines, small plates, and nibbles, such as sliders, olives, cheese and ham, wings, and fries. Cellar Sessions take place every Saturday from 8:30 PM onwards.

Signature Sourdough Bread and Seasonal Dip

Dinner began with a serving of their warm Signature Sourdough Bread, accompanied by a seasonal dip that was especially satisfying, complemented by a touch of their freshly ground pepper.

Crudo Of Hiramasa Kingfish & Yellowfin Tuna 4.2/5

Next, we were served a cold appetiser of Crudo of Hiramasa Kingfish and Yellowfin Tuna dressed in a zesty tomato ponzu. The dish was garnished with tomberries, crunchy pickled cucumber, and a drizzle of gamtae oil. The textures were lovely, and it made for a light, refreshing start that whets the appetite for the courses to come.

Tomato Salad 4/5

For my dining companion, who doesn't take raw fish, they thoughtfully offered a bright and refreshing Tomato Salad instead.

Traditional French Onion Soup 4.5/5

Next, we were served their Traditional French Onion Soup, a dish I was particularly excited about, as I absolutely love French onion soup. Presented in a deep bowl, their version featured a rich, slow-cooked onion broth that was hearty and delicious. In place of the usual croutons, it offered a local twist with crispy youtiao, topped with a golden, savoury layer of melted Gruyère cheese.

665°F Wagyu Tasting, 4.5/5

For the main event, we savoured three exceptional cuts of beef, each showcasing distinct qualities. The first was the Tajima Cross-Bred Wagyu Bavette, with a Marble Score of 4-5, offering a tender yet robust flavour with a satisfying balance of fat and meat.

Next, the Robbins Island 100% Full Blood Wagyu Tenderloin, with an impressive Marble Score of 7-8, stood out for its rich depth of flavour and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Finally, the Satsuma Full Blood Wagyu Striploin, graded at Marble Score A4, was juicy and buttery, enhanced by the accompanying beef fat.

Among these cuts, the Robbins Island Full Blood Wagyu Tenderloin was our favourite! The beef was served alongside tomatoes, roasted garlic confit and a Sumac Selection of Mustards and Sauces, complementing each cut well.

We were also presented with three side dishes to accompany our wagyu tasting plate:

Roasted Yukon Potatoes 4/5

Potatoes are a must-have when enjoying steak, and this side dish did not disappoint. Golden and tender Roasted Yukon Potatoes were tossed with fragrant curry leaves and a touch of dried chilli.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts Sesame 3.5/5

Crisp-fried Brussels Sprouts are elevated with nutty sesame seeds, a kick of fresh jalapeño, and topped with delicate shavings of smoky bonito from Cameron Highlands.

Padron Peppers 'A La Plancha' 3.8/5

Charred to perfection on a hot griddle, these mild Padron Peppers are served with a cooling drizzle of tangy hung yoghurt, balancing smoky heat with creamy freshness.

Whiskey-Fired Ice Cream S'more 3.8/5

For dessert, the Whiskey-Fired Ice Cream S'more is a showstopper. A cube of Madagascan Vanilla & Salted Caramel ice cream is drizzled with hot fudge sauce, then flambéed with whiskey tableside. It's served alongside a graham cookie for the perfect finish. I only wish there had been less ice cream and a bit more marshmallow and hot fudge sauce instead!

In addition to their à la carte menu, 665°F offers 3- to 5-course signature dinner sets, along with an enticing $68++ unlimited steak frites deal available on weekends and public holidays. The service here was also excellent, and the team was warm, professional, and attentive throughout our visit. It's worth checking out for a relaxing night out or a special occasion.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


665°F
Andaz Singapore
Level 38
5 Fraser Street
Singapore
Tel: +65 64081255
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 23pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Hortus @ Gardens by The Bay Flower Dome - New Mediterranean Sharing Menu Comprising of 9 Dishes

Nestled within the lush beauty of Gardens by the Bay's Flower Dome, Hortus offers diners a taste of the Mediterranean, surrounded by vibrant blooms and cool serenity. With its focus on fresh, vibrant sharing plates and rustic wood-grilled mains, Hortus presents an experience that goes beyond the food—especially with its newly launched Mediterranean Sharing Set Menu ($68++ per pax), which even includes complimentary Flower Dome admission and a buggy ride to and from the Main Entrance. A perfect little getaway without leaving Singapore!

Hummus, Olive Oil and Paprika 4.8/5

Muhammara, Roasted Bell Pepper and Walnut Dip 4.5/5

The meal kicks off with an array of five sharing starters. The Hummus with Olive Oil and Paprika was an instant hit — creamy, nutty, and elevated by the earthiness of paprika and a generous drizzle of olive oil. It is paired beautifully with the warm, fluffy housemade pita. Equally delightful was the Muhammara, a roasted bell pepper and walnut dip that was slightly smoky, nutty, and tangy — a deliciously vibrant alternative to the classic hummus.

Fried School Prawns, Calamari, Whitebait with Lemon Aioli 4.5/5

Next up was the Fried Seafood Basket, featuring school prawns, calamari, and whitebait, all perfectly crispy and light, paired with a zesty lemon aioli. It was dangerously addictive, with each piece a burst of flavour and crunch.

Yellowtail Kingfish Crudo 4.8/5

The Yellowtail Kingfish Crudo was a standout among the starters. Dressed with bergamot and green olives and scattered with pomegranate seeds, it was refreshingly bright, delicately sweet, and brimming with Mediterranean sunshine.

Kingfish Collar with Cabbage and Fennel Salad and Nduja 4.2/5

Moving on to the mains, we tried the Kingfish Collar with Cabbage and Fennel Salad and Nduja. Grilled to crispy perfection on the outside while keeping the flesh moist and tender, the kingfish was livened up beautifully by a squeeze of lemon and the spicy kick from the nduja. The accompanying salad of cabbage and fennel provided a refreshing counterpoint.

Beef and Lamb Adana Kebab with Sumac Onions 4.2/5

We also sampled the Beef and Lamb Adana Kebab with Sumac Onions. Typically, kebabs can veer on the dry side, but Hortus' version was juicy, aromatic, and full of flavour. The sweet and tangy sumac onions on top brought a much-appreciated brightness to the hearty meat skewer.

Cracked Wheat Salad with Dill, Mint, and Pomegranate 4.2/5

Rice Pilaf with Pistachio and Lemon 4.5/5

To complement the mains, we had the Cracked Wheat Salad and the Rice Pilaf with Pistachio and Lemon. Both were excellent — the cracked wheat salad was herby and fresh with pops of pomegranate, while the rice pilaf was light, fragrant, and enhanced by the nuttiness of pistachios and citrusy lemon.

House churned Vanilla Gelato, Halva, Tahini 4.5/5

Desserts were a true surprise and delight. The House Churned Vanilla Gelato, paired with halva, tahini, pomegranate syrup, and mint, was a symphony of textures and flavours — sweet, nutty, creamy, and refreshing all at once.

Rose and Cardamom Basbousa 4.5/5

The final treat, Rose and Cardamom Basbousa, sealed the meal on a high note. The moist semolina cake, topped with house churned pistachio gelato and cardamom cream, offered a beautiful blend of floral and nutty flavours that was both comforting and exotic.

Hortus isn't just a restaurant — it's an experience. The combination of fresh Mediterranean flavours, an idyllic garden setting, and thoughtful touches like complimentary entry and transport make it a memorable destination dining spot. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a leisurely meal with a view, Hortus delivers in every way.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hortus
Flower Dome
Gardens by the Bay
18 Marina Garden Drive
#01-09
Singapore 018953
Tel: +65 6702 0158
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Nearest MRT: Bayfront MRT

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 330pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit B. Take the pathway to Bayfront Plaza Ticketing. Take for the shuttle bus to flower dome or walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

VUE @ OUE Bayfront- Showcases the Exquisite Flavours of SILERE New Zealand Alpine Merino Lamb in Its Spring Menu

This spring, VUE at OUE Bayfront presents an elevated spring menu featuring an exclusive selection of Silere Alpine Merino Lamb dishes. Raised free-range in the wild alpine meadows of New Zealand, these lambs graze on golden tussocks and wild mountain thyme, which naturally contribute to their distinctive flavour profile.

Silere NZ Alpine Merino Lamb Tartare 4/5

The cold appetiser of Silere NZ Alpine Merino Lamb Tartare truly showcased the exquisite meat. The tender texture of the lamb paired beautifully with oscietra caviar, pickled sakura leaves, and egg yolk gel, enhancing its richness and depth of flavour. A subtle gaminess lingered at the end of each bite, adding an intriguing nuance. A touch more acidity could have further elevated the tartare.

Zeeland Kingfish Confit 4.5/5

Another standout cold appetiser was the Zeeland Kingfish Confit, complemented by pickled kabu, grilled mussels, and smoked bonito vinegar. The dish delivered both richness in texture and layered umami flavours, balanced by just the right amount of acidity.

White Asparagus 4.2/5

For a vegetarian warm appetiser, the seasonal White Asparagus was well-executed, its grilled smokiness enhancing the asparagus's natural mildness. The lion's mane mushroom tempura added a satisfying crunch and a moreish quality to the dish. A drizzle of herb oil and sweet, piquant choron sauce tied the elements together harmoniously.

Scallop & Pearls 4.2/5

The seafood warm appetiser, Scallop & Pearls (+$18), was a showstopper. The scallops were succulent and perfectly seared, paired with buttery cauliflower purée and creamy oscietra caviar, delivering a silky, indulgent mouthfeel. A hint of mild curry cream and pickled onions added depth and a slight acidity to balance the richness.

Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto 4.2/5

For the risotto course, we sampled the Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto and Signature Uni Risotto (+$12), each offering a perfectly cooked rice texture. The Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto featured porcini and sautéed chestnut mushrooms enriched with Parmigiano and truffle for a deep, earthy flavour. While deliciously rich and umami-packed, it became slightly too salty towards the end.

Uni Risotto 4.5/5

The Uni Risotto had a unique briny and cheesy flavour profile, enhanced by the use of Japanese multi-grain rice, which added a nutty dimension that paired well with the creamy sea urchin.

Silere NZ Alpine Merino Lamb Rack 4/5

Under the Mains, the Silere NZ Alpine Merino Lamb Rack was presented as a Lamb Wellington, wrapped in flaky, golden pastry with tender, blushing-pink lamb at its core. While the lamb's flavour was relatively mild, the dish was elevated by a Pithivier chilli & cumin pesto and a tangy buttermilk sauce, which provided a bold, flavourful contrast.

Spanish Lubina 4.5/5

For the seafood main, the Spanish Lubina was well-cooked with a crisp, golden-brown skin. It was enhanced with Sardinian bottarga alongside tender braised leek and kale velouté, adding a depth of oceanic and herbaceous flavours.

Sobacha Dark Chocolate 4.8/5

For a decadent finish, the Sobacha Dark Chocolate stood out with its nutty blond buckwheat mousse, fermented soy caramel, and cereal milk ice cream — a sublime combination of textures and flavours. The prized Shizuoka Musk Melon (+$28) was a delightful choice for a lighter option. This air-flown melon was served with fresh berries and seasonal sorbet, allowing its natural sweetness and juiciness to shine.

Shizuoka Musk Melon 4.2/5

Available from 28 March 2025 to 23 June 2025, the Spring Menu features 3-course $128++ | 4-course $168++ | 5-course $198++ per guest

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.


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 1am
Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 2am
Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 2am
(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]