Chef X @ Clark Quay Central - A Comforting Hansang Pop-Up Serving Soulful Korean Home Cooking

Chef X at Clarke Quay Central welcomes its latest residency from Kimpson's Table, led by Korean-born chef Patrick Kim. Running from 16 January to 13 March 2026, the pop-up brings with it the comforting soul of Hansang dining, a traditional Korean home-style spread centred on balance, nourishment, and warmth. Kimpson's Table isn't entirely new to me, as I've previously tried their home-delivered meal kits. Still, there's something deeply satisfying about enjoying these dishes fresh and hot from the kitchen. Unlike the brand's rotating online menu, the menu at Chef X is fixed, allowing diners to enjoy a thoughtfully curated selection that best reflects Chef Kim's philosophy and flavours.

Authentic Ginseng Chicken Set 4/5

The Authentic Ginseng Chicken Set ($15) is a classic Korean staple prized for its restorative qualities. At the centre is a tender half-chicken, boiled for four hours and stuffed generously with chewy Korean glutinous rice. The broth is where the magic lies, light yet deeply comforting, infused with fragrant ginseng, red dates, and garlic. Clean, herbaceous, and gently warming, each sip soothes without overwhelming the palate. Served with rice and three rotating banchan, it forms the heart of the Hansang experience at Kimpson's Table.

Spicy Pork Bulgogi Set 4.2/5

A cult favourite from Kimpson's Table, the Spicy Pork Bulgogi Set ($13) delivers robust flavours with finesse. Thinly sliced pork is marinated in Chef Kim's housemade blend of apples, pears, and leeks, lending natural sweetness while keeping the meat juicy and aromatic. Cooked to tender perfection, the bulgogi is satisfying without being cloying. Paired with rice and a trio of banchan, it's a hearty, well-rounded meal that showcases his respect for traditional techniques and quality produce. Other mains include the Beef Bulgogi Set ($14) and ChunCheon Style Spicy Chicken Set ($13), all very reasonably priced.

Kimchi Pancake 4/5

The Kimchi Pancake ($10) arrives with crisp edges and a flavourful, ingredient-studded centre. Savoury and punchy with just the right acidity from the kimchi, it's indulgent yet restrained, making it an ideal dish to share, whether as a starter or a comforting add-on to your meal.

Boneless Chicken 4.2/5

For something more indulgent, the Boneless Chicken comes in two flavours: Original ($14 for 6 pieces) and Sweet & Spicy ($15 for 6 pieces). Each piece is juicy, with a satisfying bite, while the seasoning enhances rather than masks the chicken's natural savouriness. Well-executed and crowd-pleasing, it's an easy favourite for those craving a little indulgence alongside the more homely fare.

Overall, Kimpson's Table at Chef X offers an accessible yet heartfelt introduction to Korean home-style cooking — honest flavours, comforting textures, and prices that make repeat visits tempting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kimpson's Table @ Chef X
Clarke Quay Central
6 Eu Tong Sen Street
#03-103/104
Singapore 059817
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Website
Nearest MRT: Clark Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clark Quay MRT Station. Take Exit E or F. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Myung Ga (명가) II Korean BBQ @ Bukit Timah Plaza - A Go-To Spot for Korean Comfort Food

Myung Ga (명가) II at Bukit Timah Plaza is a beloved Korean eatery known for its generous portions, comforting home-style dishes, and authentic flavours that bring a taste of Korea closer to home. While the restaurant's name includes "Korean BBQ," many regulars return for its extensive range of traditional Korean dishes — from hearty stews and noodles to well-executed grilled items and classic comfort food.

Banchan 4/5

Before our mains arrived, we were served a selection of complimentary banchan, which is refillable. These side dishes help set the tone for the meal and complement the mains' bold flavours nicely.

Jaeyuk Dupbap - Spicy Stir-Fried Pork Belly 4.5/5

The Jaeyuk Dupbap ($20) features tender pork belly slices stir-fried in a robust gochujang-based sauce. The flavours are well-balanced — sweet, spicy, and deeply savoury without being overly cloying. Portions are generous, and the dish is served with a bowl of rice, making it perfect for pairing with the intensely flavoured pork belly.

Haemul Sundubu - Seafood Soft Tofu Stew 4.5/5

Served piping hot, the Haemul Sundubu ($18) is comforting and hearty. The soft tofu is incredibly silky, almost melting in the mouth, while the stew is packed with rich seafood flavours that enhance the spicy base broth. A satisfying choice, especially for those who enjoy bold and warming Korean stews.

Altang - Spicy Fish Roe Stew 4.2/5

For the more adventurous diner, the Altang ($25) is a standout. This spicy fish roe stew is loaded with fish roe and milt, ingredients not commonly found on menus in Singapore. As a fan of fish roe and milt, this was a pleasant surprise and a dish that showcases the restaurant's commitment to authentic Korean flavours.

Haemul Buchu Jeon - Seafood Pancake 4/5

Another delightful dish is the Haemul Buchu Jeon ($22). The seafood pancake is crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside. Each bite is savoury and satisfying, especially when dipped into the accompanying sauce, which beautifully brings the flavours together.

Overall, Myung Ga (명가) II delivers comforting Korean fare with generous portions and authentic flavours, making it a reliable spot for both casual meals and hearty Korean cravings.


Myung Ga (명가) II Korean BBQ
Bukit Timah Plaza
1 Jalan Anak Bukit
#B1-55
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 6469 5123
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Nearest MRT: King Albert Park (DT Line), Beauty World (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 830pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at King Albert Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Bukit Timah Road. Cross the road at the traffic junction of Bukit Timah Road and Clementi Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Beauty World MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the traffic junction of Upper Bukit Timah Road and Jalan Jurong Kechil. Cross the road at the traffic junction. Turn right onto Upper Bukit Timah Road. Walk down Upper Bukit Timah Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Gwangjang GAON @ Jewel Changi Airport - Bringing The Authentic Taste of Traditional Korean Recipes to The Lion City

Gwangjang GAON, by renowned Korean culinary Professor Hyo Soon Park, brings a slice of traditional Korean heritage to Singapore with its first overseas outpost at Jewel Changi Airport. With two well-established outlets in South Korea, the restaurant is highly regarded for its time-honoured Korean recipes, so much so that it has been frequented by Korean celebrities like Han So-hee, Lee Jung-jae of Squid Game fame, and actress Choi Myung-gil, who became such a fan that she opened a franchise herself.

Helmed by a fourth-generation culinary philosophy, Gwangjang GAON presents dishes rooted in Korean royal and household traditions, now refined and served in a modern dining environment.

Modm-Jeon 4.2/5

A classic starter that sets the tone is the Modm-Jeon ($29.90), an assorted platter of Korean-style pancakes or fritters made from shrimp, pollack, zucchini, ground pork, and crab surimi. Handmade fresh daily using Professor Park's family recipe, the jeon are pan-fried to a golden crisp and served with a soy-vinegar dip that enhances their light, eggy fragrance. It's a dish steeped in heritage, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty and a rarity in restaurants today due to its labour-intensive preparation.

Chogye-Nangche 4/5

A refreshing cold appetiser, Chogye-Nangche ($18.90) features chilled chicken salad tossed in a tangy vinegar and mustard dressing. It's light yet punchy, a perfect palate awakener in Singapore's tropical heat.

Deulgireum Maguksu 4/5

For noodle lovers, the Deulgireum Makguksu ($21.90) is a standout. This cold buckwheat noodle dish is coated with nutty perilla oil and sprinkled with crunchy perilla seeds, while subtle heat from cheongyang red pepper adds an unexpected yet welcome depth. The fresh perilla leaves elevate the dish with their herbal brightness.

Classic Bibimbap 4/5

No Korean meal is complete without Bibimbap ($22.90), and GAON’s version delivers with over 13 ingredients, including egg, meat, and vibrant vegetables served atop warm rice. Diners can choose between gochujang (red pepper paste), doenjang (soybean paste), or a blended sauce for added complexity. Mix it all together for a hearty, textural medley of flavours.

Bossam 4.8/5

The Bossam ($43.90) is a must-order. Slices of tender pork belly are gently simmered in a prized 15-year-old mother stock flown in from Korea. The meat is rich and aromatic, pairing beautifully with fresh cabbage, homemade kimchi, saeujeot (fermented shrimp sauce), and ssamjang. It's a dish that exemplifies depth, balance, and tradition, all presented on a Hojokban, a traditional Korean tray.

Gaon Galbi 4.8/5

Another signature, the GAON Galbi ($69.90), features premium beef short ribs sous-vide for over 24 hours in a blend of 20 herbs and spices. Finished with a light torch for smoky depth, the ribs retain a satisfying bite while being exceptionally tender. Served ceremoniously on a Hojokban tray, this dish pays homage to Korea’s royal culinary heritage while embracing modern technique.

Gwangjang GAON offers a rare opportunity to experience the finesse of traditional Korean cuisine crafted with generational wisdom and elevated techniques. With a deep respect for ingredients and authenticity, this Jewel Changi gem is more than just a restaurant. It is a cultural showcase on a plate.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Gwangjang GAON
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:
Daily: 11am -10pm

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

Peppermint @ PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay - Bringing Vibrant Flavours of Korea to The Heart of Marina Bay

Back by popular demand, Seoul Good returns to Peppermint for a limited time from 6 June (Dinner) to 13 July 2025 (Lunch). This special edition of the halal-certified buffet brings the vibrant flavours of Korea to the heart of Marina Bay, curated by Chef de Cuisine Leon Yee and his talented team.

With nearly 40 dishes available, this Korean showcase celebrates the diversity and comfort of the country’s cuisine – from sizzling meats to soul-warming soups and vibrant street food. Here’s a taste of what to expect:

Banchans

You're greeted by an inviting spread of Banchan the moment you step in. The small plates included Kkakdugi (spicy pickled radish), Baechu Kimchi (fermented cabbage) and Gim Gui (roasted seaweed), offering a crunchy, tangy and savoury start to awaken your palate. It's a great way to sample a little bit of everything before moving on to the heavier dishes.

Korean Bibimbap

One of the most eye-catching stations was the Make-Your-Own Bibimbap. With colourful vegetables, marinated meats, and sauces, diners can customise their rice bowls to their liking, from classic gochujang to a drizzle of sesame oil for that authentic Korean touch.

Korean Spicy Cheese and Corn Pizza

Haemul Pajeon

Japchae

Some standouts included the Korean Spicy Cheese & Corn Pizza – rich, creamy and satisfying with a hint of spice and the Haemul Pajeon (seafood pancake), which had a great crisp edge and generous bits of squid and prawns. The Japchae stir-fried sweet potato noodles were well-balanced with just the right amount of chew and umami.

Beef Galbi

Chicken Bulgogi

Yang-Galbi

Kkorijjim

Carnivores will be well-fed with the buffet’s generous spread of grilled and braised meats, including crowd favourites like Beef Galbi and Chicken Bulgogi. Two standout additions include Yang-Galbi, Korean-style lamb spare ribs that offer a rich, smoky bite and Kkorijjim, a deeply comforting dish of braised wagyu oxtail simmered until fork-tender. Each option is full of bold, savoury flavours and perfect for piling onto your plate or wrapping in lettuce for a satisfying ssam-style bite.

Korean Fried Chicken

Of course, no Korean meal is complete without Korean Fried Chicken. Choose between Spicy and Garlic Soy or have both. Crispy, juicy and addictive, this was easily one of the most popular items at the buffet.

Korean Style Seabass

Tteobokki with Fishcake

Beyond the showstoppers, there are several comforting dishes worth trying. The Tteokbokki with Fishcake – chewy rice cakes in a mildly spicy sauce, is a Korean street food staple that's always a crowd-pleaser.

Jjamppong

At the live noodle station, they were serving up Jjamppong, a spicy seafood noodle soup that delivered a bold, punchy broth. However, the noodles were a touch too soft for our liking.

Samgyentang

We also sampled the Samgyetang, a traditional ginseng chicken soup served with glutinous rice. It was mild in flavour but soothing and comforting.

Baesuk

While we didn’t spot many Korean-themed desserts, there was Baesuk (Korean pear soup), a refreshing end to the meal, although the strong cinnamon note might not appeal to everyone.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Korean cuisine or simply craving something different, Seoul Good at Peppermint delivers a delightful experience filled with comforting flavours, generous portions and value for money.

Seou Good Buffet 4/5

Seoul Good buffet at Peppermint is available at $72++ per adult (Mon-Thurs), $82++ per adult (Weekend, eve of PH & PH) during lunch and $98++ per adult (Mon-Thurs), $112++ (Weekend, eve of PH & PH).

Exclusively for weekday lunches, all GST and service charges will be fully absorbed!

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Peppermint
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay
6 Raffles Boulevard
Level 4
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 6845 1111
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Website
Nearest MRT: Promenade MRT (CC, DT Line), Esplanade MRT (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch
Weekdays: 12pm - 2.30pm
Weekends: 12pm - 3pm
Dinner
Daily: 6.30pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Taste Myeongdong @ Taste Orchard - New Food Hall with 7 Different Korean Concepts Under One Roof

Located along bustling Orchard Road, TASTE Myeongdong is the latest food hall concept that transports diners to the nostalgic, neon-lit streets of Myeongdong, South Korea. Inspired by the vibrant pocha (Korean street bar) culture, this food hall brings together seven distinct concepts, namely O'Bok Bibimbap, Red Cup, Gamtan Express, Singdang Bul Dakbal, Hoho Noodles, Myung Dong Pocha, and Breaders. They offer comforting, affordable, and all-day Korean fare under one roof. By evening, the space transforms into a lively pocha hub with a wide selection of sharing plates perfect for groups.

We visited for their Pocha Set Menu ($95 for 4 pax), available after 5pm. This menu includes a generous spread of Korean street favourites such as Tteokbokki, Fish Cake Soup, Fried Snacks, Gimbap, Chicken Feet, and a choice between Seafood Pajeon or Kimchi Jeon.

Singdang Bul Dakbal - Gimbap 4/5

Our meal began with a classic Beef Gimbap. It is fluffy, well-seasoned rice wrapped in crisp seaweed and layered with marinated beef, egg, and vegetables. Lightly brushed with sesame oil and topped with sesame seeds, each bite was aromatic and well-balanced. It is a comforting introduction to our pocha feast.

Singdang Bul Dakbal - Tteokbokki 4/5

Due to its often overly firm texture, I typically steer clear of Tteokbokki in Singapore. Thankfully, this version was a pleasant surprise. The rice cakes were delightfully soft and chewy, soaking up the spicy-sweet gochujang sauce with just the right amount of heat. It is a nostalgic nod to authentic Korean street food.

Singdang Bul Dakbal - Fried Snacks 3/5

The Fried Platter included an assortment of vegetables, shrimp, sweet potato, and squid fritters. While each was golden and crisp, the squid stood out for its firm and bouncy texture. It was a satisfying side dish, though it could benefit from a lighter batter for better overall balance.

Singdang Bul Dakbal - Chicken Feet 3.8/5

Served in a rich, dry spicy sauce, the Korean-style Chicken Feet brought bold, tongue-tingling flavours. It was a unique and surprisingly enjoyable experience — the gelatinous texture of the chicken feet complemented the fiery seasoning. While it may be acquired for some, it's worth trying if you're adventurous.

Myung Dong Pocha - Fish Cake Soup 4/5

Nothing says Korean street food like a steaming bowl of Eomuk (Fish Cake Soup). The comforting, umami-rich broth and soft fish cakes instantly transported me back to my Myeongdong trip. It is a simple but deeply satisfying dish, especially on a cool evening.

Myung Dong Pocha - Seafood Pajeon 3/5

We opted for the Seafood Pajeon over the Kimchi version. While the edges had a slight crisp, the pancake leaned a bit too doughy for my preference. That said, it was generously studded with seafood and paired nicely with a tangy dipping sauce. Fans of Korean pancakes may appreciate it more.

Breaders - Original, Crumble Blueberry, Pecan Walnut 3.8/5

Rounding off the meal on a sweet note, we sampled three flavours from Breaders, a popular Korean custard tart brand: Original, Crumble Blueberry, and Pecan Walnut. Unlike traditional egg tarts, these are best enjoyed chilled, featuring a creamy, molten-like centre with a delicate, flaky crust. They're less eggy, more dessert-like, and perfect for those who enjoy a soft, custardy texture. With a total of six flavours (including Sweet Potato, Earl Grey, and Blueberry Cream Cheese), there's something for every palate.

TASTE Myeongdong captures the heart and soul of Korean street food culture with an accessible, family-friendly format. Whether craving comforting classics or looking to wind down with pocha-style bites and soju, this food hall brings a slice of Korea to the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Taste Myeongdong
Taste Orchard
160 Orchard Road
Singapore 238842
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Killiney Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]