Showing posts with label Korean BBQ. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Korean BBQ. Show all posts

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Kott-Don 360 @ Vivocity - Immersive Korean BBQ with Premium Hanwoo and 360-Hour Aged Meats

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Kott-Don 360, the Korean BBQ specialist known for its premium wet-aged meats, has officially opened its second outlet at VivoCity on 15 June 2026. Building on the success of its Paya Lebar Quarter location, the new flagship raises the bar with a more immersive dining concept, anchored by a dramatic cave-inspired entrance that leads into a space adorned with traditional Hanok roof elements. The experience feels almost transportive, setting the tone for a meal that celebrates Korean craftsmanship, culture, and meticulous meat preparation.

Founded by the team behind Flower Pig 360, Kott-Don 360 continues its mission to elevate the Korean barbecue experience through expertly aged meats, attentive service, and a thoughtfully curated menu. The VivoCity outlet also introduces exclusive Hanwoo beef selections, making it a destination for those seeking a more refined Korean BBQ experience.

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Hanwoo - Rib Finger, Ribeye

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Hanwoo - Ribeye 4.2/5

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Hanwoo - Rib Finger 4/5

We began with the Hanwoo Beef Set for sharing (from $268 Member Price), featuring prized cuts such as Rib Finger and Ribeye. The Hanwoo Rib Finger stands out for its robust, deeply meaty character. Cut from between the rib bones, it offers a more pronounced chew compared to more tender cuts, delivering a satisfying bite that beef lovers will appreciate. As it grills, the fat renders beautifully, creating a smoky, caramelised crust that amplifies its natural savouriness. Despite its structure, the meat remains juicy, striking a delicate balance between tenderness and resistance.

In contrast, the Hanwoo Ribeye leans towards indulgence. Richly marbled, it delivers a luxurious, buttery umami that coats the palate without feeling cloying. The texture is exceptionally tender, almost melting in the mouth with minimal effort. What impresses most is its clean finish. Despite the high fat content, it avoids the greasy aftertaste sometimes associated with heavily marbled beef, leaving behind a refined, lingering richness that keeps you reaching for more.

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Duroc Black Pork - Pork Belly, Marinated Pork Neck and Jeju Black Pork - Pork Neck

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Duroc Black Pork - Pork Belly 4.2/5

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Duroc Black Pork - Marinated Pork Neck 3.8/5

The pork selections are equally compelling, showcasing different breeds and cuts. The Duroc Black Pork Belly ($29.90) is a highlight, widely regarded as the gold standard for pork due to its superior fat-to-meat ratio. Each slice grills up with crisp edges and a succulent interior, releasing a natural sweetness that is slightly nutty and far more pronounced than that of conventional pork. The marbling ensures the meat self-bastes as it cooks, resulting in a juicy, flavourful bite with a clean, non-gamey finish.

The Duroc Marinated Pork Neck ($33.90) offers a different but equally satisfying experience. The marinade enhances the pork’s inherent sweetness, caramelising over the grill to form a lightly charred, flavour-packed exterior. Unlike the belly, the neck cut provides a firmer, springy texture, delivering a hearty bite that feels substantial without being overly rich. It is well-balanced, making it easy to enjoy throughout the meal.

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Jeju Black Pork - Pork Neck 4.5/5

Another standout is the Jeju Black Pork Neck ($33.90), often dubbed the “Wagyu of pork” in Korea. Raised in Jeju’s unique environment, the meat boasts a deeper, more concentrated flavour profile. The higher protein content gives it a pronounced meatiness, while the fat carries a clean, subtly sweet nuttiness. When grilled, the interplay of smoke and rendered fat creates an aromatic complexity that is both bold and refined, elevating it beyond typical pork offerings.

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Kimchi Soup 4.2/5

Beyond the grill, the supporting dishes further round out the experience. The Black Pork Kimchi Soup ($18.90++) is a comforting staple, combining Duroc pork, kimchi, tofu, and spring onions in a hearty broth. The balance of spice, acidity, and richness makes it especially satisfying, and the refillable portions ensure it remains a warm, constant companion throughout the meal.

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Cheese Steamed Egg 4.2/5

The Cheese Steamed Egg is soft and pillowy, almost cloud-like in texture. Topped with a layer of torched cheese, it gains added depth of flavour, with the creamy, slightly smoky notes of the cheese enhancing the delicate egg custard beneath.

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Fish Cake Soup 4.2/5

A unique addition is the Kettle-Pot Fish Cake Soup (Non-Member: $55++; Member: $45++), served in a traditional kettle. Featuring imported Busan fish cake skewers in a broth brewed from radish, leek, and anchovy stock, it is both visually intriguing and deeply comforting. The kettle presentation allows diners to pour the soup themselves, adding an interactive touch to the dining experience.

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Seafood Pancake 4/5

The Seafood Pancake (Non-Member: $32++; Member: $28++) impresses with its crisp exterior and well-balanced composition. It is not overly doughy, allowing the flavours of the seafood to shine through without being masked by excess batter. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by the natural sweetness of the seafood.

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Kimchi Cold Noodle 4/5

For something lighter, the Cold Kimchi Noodle (Non-Member: $16.90++; Member: $14.90++) provides a refreshing contrast. The chilled fermented kimchi broth is tangy and invigorating, pairing well with the soft noodles, cucumber, seaweed, and boiled egg. It’s a welcoming, refreshing dish amid the richness of the grilled meats.

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Beef Tartare Bibimbap 4.2/5

The Beef Tartare Bibimbap (Non-Member: $31++; Member: $26++) is another noteworthy dish. Featuring wagyu beef tartare, shredded egg, seaweed, and water spinach, it is brought together with a pasteurised egg yolk and ssamjang. The result is a rich, savoury bowl with layers of texture and flavour, in which the beef’s umami is complemented by the sauce’s nutty, slightly sweet notes.

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To celebrate its opening, Kott-Don 360 is offering a limited-time promotion. Diners who sign up for a complimentary membership can enjoy a free 150g serving of pork belly with a minimum spend, limited to one redemption per bill while stocks last.

Kott-Don 360 at VivoCity is more than just another Korean BBQ spot. With its immersive setting, premium ingredients, and attention to detail, it delivers a dining experience that goes beyond the grill. Whether you are drawn by the exclusivity of Hanwoo beef or the depth of flavour in its carefully sourced pork, Kott-Don 360 at VivoCity is set to become a compelling destination for Korean barbecue enthusiasts.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kott-Don 360
VivoCity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#02-123/124
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 9003 9688
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Friday, June 26, 2026

Keum Eun Don Korean BBQ @ HillV2 - The Idol-Visit Seoul BBQ Known for Its Premium Pork and Woodae Galbi Lands in Singapore

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Imported straight from Seoul’s Yongsan district, Keum Eun Don arrives in Singapore with a strong pedigree rooted in craftsmanship, provenance, and a deep respect for Korean grilling culture. Widely recognised as a celebrity-frequented establishment located beside HYBE Entertainment in Seoul, the brand carries the official 모범음식점 (Exemplary Restaurant) certification — a testament to its consistency and quality.

Built on 17 years of F&B expertise, Keum Eun Don is best known for its Iberico pork programme. Selected cuts undergo a meticulous two-stage ageing process, wet ageing followed by dry ageing,  designed to develop both tenderness and a clean, concentrated flavour profile. Before reaching the table, the meats are lightly kissed with charcoal aroma in the kitchen, setting the stage for diners to complete the grilling themselves for optimal doneness.

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Adding to its credibility, actor and WANNA ONE member Hwang Min Hyun recently named Keum Eun Don as his personal go-to for Korean BBQ, citing its precision grilling and premium execution. His endorsement feels less like marketing and more like insider validation, the kind that reflects genuine loyalty.

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Banchan 4/5

As expected, the meal begins with a spread of complimentary banchan and dipping sauces. While the assortment is fairly standard, a few stood out. The kimchi delivered a satisfying balance of tang and depth, while the corn and potato sides offered a comforting sweetness that complemented the grilled meats nicely. It’s a modest but well-executed supporting cast.

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EUN Set 4/5

We opted for the EUN Set ($145), designed for 2 to 3 diners. The set includes Prime Beef Short Rib, Pork Belly, Pork Collar, a choice of stew, and a single drink.

While the quality of the meat is evident, the set’s structure feels somewhat restrictive. The inclusion of only one drink, despite being marketed for up to three diners, feels unusual. Similarly, limiting the set to just one stew choice lacks the variety typically seen in Korean BBQ sets across Singapore, where additional sides or cooked dishes are often included. From a value perspective, it leans on the premium quality of ingredients rather than quantity or diversity.

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Pork Collar 4/5

Built on 17 years of F&B expertise, Keum Eun Don specialises in Iberico pork, with selected cuts undergoing a two-stage ageing process of wet ageing followed by dry ageing, developed specifically to enhance depth, tenderness, and a clean flavour profile. Before service, the meats are lightly exposed to the charcoal aroma in the kitchen to enhance their natural smokiness, then served to guests to complete the grilling process at the table, ensuring full control over doneness and texture.

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Pork Belly 4.2/5

A standout cut, the Pork Collar exemplifies Keum Eun Don’s expertise in Iberico pork. Compared to pork belly, it carries a higher lean-to-fat ratio, resulting in a more balanced bite. The marbling ensures juiciness, while the texture remains tender without veering into chewiness. Thanks to the dual ageing process, the pork collar develops a deeper, almost nutty pork flavour that lingers pleasantly. Grilled over the tabletop charcoal, it achieves a beautiful caramelisation while retaining its moisture, a testament to both the ingredient quality and preparation technique.

The Pork Belly, or samgyeopsal, delivers exactly what fans of Korean BBQ seek — richness, indulgence, and textural contrast. Comprising alternating layers of meat and fat, the cut crisps up beautifully on the grill, yielding a satisfying bite that is both juicy and slightly charred. At Keum Eun Don, the sourcing elevates this classic beyond the ordinary. The fat renders cleanly without greasiness, and each bite carries a depth that speaks to careful ageing and quality control.

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Prime Beef Short Rib 4/5

A Singapore-exclusive addition, the Prime Beef Short Rib (woodae galbi) introduces a beef option to a pork-centric concept. The cut is aged and subtly infused with charcoal aroma before service. On the grill, it cooks quickly, revealing a tender, almost buttery texture. The flavour is rich yet refined, with a slight smokiness that enhances rather than overwhelms the natural beefiness. While it diverges from the brand’s pork-focused identity, it serves as a strong complement for those seeking variety.

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Soft Tofu Stew with Seafood 4.2/5

For the stew, we chose the Soft Tofu Stew with Seafood. Served bubbling hot, the dish features silky tofu immersed in a robust, spicy seafood broth. The stew strikes a comforting balance, bold in flavour yet not overly heavy. The umami from the seafood adds depth, while the gentle heat cuts through the richness of the grilled meats, making it an essential companion to the BBQ experience.

Keum Eun Don brings a slice of Seoul’s refined Korean BBQ culture, emphasising technique, ingredient quality, and precision. The Iberico pork programme, in particular, stands out for its depth of flavour and thoughtful preparation, making it the highlight of the experience. That said, while the EUN Set showcases the restaurant’s strengths, it falls slightly short in perceived value compared to other Korean BBQ offerings in Singapore, which often offer a broader selection of dishes at similar price points. Ultimately, Keum Eun Don is less about abundance and more about refinement. In this place, the focus is on doing a few things exceptionally well rather than offering everything at once.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Keum Eun Don Korean BBQ
HillV2
4 Hillview Rise
#01-09
Singapore 667979
Tel: +65 62220221
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Hillview (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Hillview MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Hillview Road. Turn right onto Hillview Road. Walk down Hillview Road. Turn right onto Hillview Link. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]


Saturday, June 13, 2026

Seoul & So @ National Gallery - Brings Contemporary Korean BBQ to National Gallery Singapore with Value Lunch Sets

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Seoul & So debuts at National Gallery Singapore, introducing a fresh Korean barbecue concept set within one of the city’s most iconic cultural spaces. Located on Level 5, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy grilled premium meats while overlooking the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery installations, blending art, architecture, and cuisine into a single immersive setting.

Created by the award-winning team behind Seoul Restaurant (Conrad Singapore Orchard), Seoul & So is the Rhee siblings’ modern take on Korean barbecue. While grounded in authentic Korean flavours and traditional techniques, the concept embraces a livelier, more contemporary approach, offering both à la carte dishes and curated tasting menus designed for sharing.

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I visited on a weekday for lunch and was particularly drawn to their wallet-friendly 4-Course Lunch Sets. Priced at $45 for Set A (Beef) and $35 for Set B (Pork), each set comprises an Appetiser, Main, Post-Main, and Dessert. With two of us dining, we opted to try both sets for a more comprehensive experience.

The meal began with an assortment of Banchan, Korea’s signature side dishes. The spread offered a delightful variety of flavours and textures — from tangy pickles to savoury bites — thoughtfully prepared to complement the grilled meats that followed.

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For the mains, Lunch Set A offers a choice between USDA Prime Short Ribs or Rib Fingers (Aus Wagyu 6/7), while Set B features Jeju Pork Belly or Iberico Pork Collar, each portion at 150g.

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Rib Fingers (AUS Wagyu 6/7) 4/5

We had the Rib Fingers (Aus Wagyu 6/7), a premium cut sourced from between the rib bones. Known for its rich marbling and intense beefy flavour, this cut delivers a deeply satisfying bite. As it grills, the fat renders beautifully, creating a lightly charred exterior while keeping the interior juicy. The presence of natural tendons adds a slight chew, giving the meat a robust texture that enhances its overall appeal.

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Jeju Pork Belly 4.2/5

The Jeju Pork Belly was equally noteworthy. Imported from Jeju Island, the cut stood out for its clean, natural sweetness and balanced fat content. Grilled to a gentle crisp on the outside, the pork retained a tender, juicy centre without feeling overly greasy. The rendered fat imparted a buttery richness that coated the palate, elevating each bite with a luxurious mouthfeel.

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Mul Naengmyeon 4.2/5

For the Post-Main course, diners can choose from Kimchi Jjigae, Doenjang Jjigae, Mul Naengmyeon, or Naeng Kalguksu. We selected the Mul Naengmyeon and Kimchi Jjigae for contrast.

The Mul Naengmyeon was a refreshing interlude. Served in an icy, clear beef broth, the dish delivered a clean, subtly tangy flavour with a hint of sweetness. The buckwheat noodles were springy and pleasantly chewy, complemented by slices of cold beef, crisp cucumbers, and pickled radish. It was light, cooling, and especially satisfying after the richness of the barbecue.

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In contrast, the Kimchi Jjigae offered a comforting depth of flavour. The stew leaned towards a balanced, hearty profile rather than an overly sour or fiery one. Well-aged kimchi had softened beautifully, infusing the broth with richness, while tender pork and silky tofu added substance to the dish.

The meal concluded with a simple dessert of ice cream paired with coffee or tea — a light and pleasant finish to the multi-course lunch.

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Kimchi Jjigae 4/5

Seoul & So’s 4-Course Lunch Sets impress with both value and quality, making it an accessible way to enjoy premium Korean barbecue in a refined setting. Situated within the National Gallery, the restaurant offers more than just a meal — it delivers a dining experience that seamlessly weaves together culture, flavour, and contemporary flair.


Seoul & So
National Gallery
1 St. Andrew’s Road
#05-03
Singapore 178957
Tel: +65 64232807
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 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 the destination. Journey time is around 5 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Seorae Jib @ Plaza Singapura - Unveils Singapore’s First 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal

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Known for its expertly hay-smoked meats, Seorae Jib introduces a novel way to savour Korean barbecue with its 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal, also known as the “Flower Pork Belly”. I visited the Plaza Singapura outlet to experience this meticulous preparation that elevates the humble pork belly into something quite extraordinary.

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The highlight here is undoubtedly the premium Canadian air-flown pork belly, painstakingly scored with over 100 precise knife cuts. During our visit, the chef presented the slab and demonstrated the intricate cutting technique, which transforms the meat into a mesh-like structure. This not only tenderises the pork but also allows heat to penetrate more evenly during grilling.

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As the pork hits the grill, the cuts open up and curl slightly, forming a “flower” shape. The result is a beautifully caramelised exterior with crisp edges, while the interior remains juicy and succulent. Enjoying a piece on its own allows the natural sweetness of the pork fat to shine, complemented by a delicate smokiness from the grill. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying bite that showcases the quality of the meat and the precision behind its preparation.

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We tried the 100 Knife Cuts Kkot BBQ Set 700g ($118, with 20% off from 1 May to 30 June 2026), which offers excellent value and variety. Alongside the signature pork belly, the set includes:

● 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeobsal
● 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Nuruk Moksal
● Galmaegisal (Original)
● Woosamgyeob
● Choice of Japchae, Mul Naengmyeon, or Bibim Naengmyeon
● Cheesy Gyeran Jjim
● Optional Jjigae (Kimchi, Sundubu or Doenjang) at $10

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Subak Mocktail

In celebration of Parents’ Day from 1 May to 30 June 2026, diners can enjoy a complimentary Subak (watermelon) Mocktail (U.P. $17.90) in May when dining with mum and ordering the BBQ set. Simply snap a photo of feeding your mum, tag the restaurant on social media, and present it in-store for redemption. June continues the festivities with Father’s Day specials.

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Japchae, Cheesy Gyeran Jjim

For our carb option, we went with the Japchae, featuring springy glass noodles tossed in a lightly sweet soy-based sauce with vegetables. It’s well-balanced and comforting, providing a pleasant contrast to the richness of the grilled meats.

The Cheesy Gyeran Jjim arrives piping hot and fluffy, almost soufflé-like, with a layer of melted cheese adding extra savouriness. It’s soft, airy and incredibly moreish — perfect for rounding out the meal.

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To elevate the experience, Seorae Jib offers 10 different ways to enjoy the Kkot Samgyeopsal. From dipping it into house-made meljeot (anchovy sauce), wrapping it in lettuce with pungent leek salad, pairing it with marinated squid and seaweed, or even combining it with grilled tortilla and melted cheese — each variation brings out a different dimension of flavour and texture.

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The Kkot Nuruk Moksal (pork collar) carries a slightly firmer bite with a deeper, savoury profile, while the Galmaegisal (pork skirt) is prized for its tenderness and rich flavour. The Woosamgyeob, thinly sliced beef belly, cooks quickly and delivers a luscious, melt-in-the-mouth texture.

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Seorae Jib’s 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal is more than just a gimmick — it’s a thoughtfully executed technique that genuinely enhances the texture and flavour of the pork. The interplay of crispy edges and a juicy interior, combined with multiple ways to enjoy it, makes for a dynamic and engaging Korean BBQ experience. With its value-for-money set and limited-time promotions, this is one experience that Korean barbecue enthusiasts would not want to miss.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


SEORAE JIB
Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road
#02-01
SIngapore 238839
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS, Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit D, E or F. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]