Song Gye Ok @ The Centrepoint - Hearty Samgyetang and Kalguksu for Lunch

Song Gye Ok has expanded its presence in Singapore with a new outlet at The Centrepoint. Better known for its bustling dinner crowd and focus on BBQ and yakitori, it offers a more laid-back lunchtime experience in the afternoon. Designed with the working crowd in mind, the menu leans towards hearty yet comforting dishes that are satisfying without being overly heavy — ideal for executives seeking a quick but fulfilling midday meal.

Truffle Samgyetang 4.2/5

One highlight that may come as a surprise is the availability of Samgyetang from MODU. Here, the selection is streamlined into four distinct flavours — Collagen Herbal, Hangover, Perilla Seed, and Truffle — each catering to different preferences. We tried the Truffle Samgyetang ($46), an exclusive flavour at Song Gye Ok. The chicken was fork-tender, effortlessly falling off the bone, and soaked in a creamy, collagen-rich broth. Subtle ginseng notes provided a familiar herbal depth, while the addition of truffle lent an earthy aroma that elevated the dish into something more indulgent yet still comforting.

Assorted Mushroom Fries 4/5

For something lighter, the Assorted Mushroom Fries ($14) made for a delightful side. An assortment of mushrooms was coated in a delicate tempura batter and fried to a crisp golden brown. Each bite offered a satisfying crunch, giving way to juicy interiors that retained the mushrooms’ natural flavours and texture.

Dakgomtang 3.5/5

The Dakgomtang ($28) presented as a complete set with kimchi and salad. The soup, simmered for 12 hours using a whole spring chicken, is the true star. Clean yet deeply flavourful, the broth carries a natural richness from its collagen content, resulting in a comforting bowl that feels both nourishing and satisfying. Accompanying the soup is a plate of rice topped with charcoal-grilled half-roasted chicken, adding a smoky dimension that complements the broth’s lightness.

Perilla & Ongshimi Kalguksu 4/5

Rounding out the menu is the Signature Kalguksu Korean Hand-cut Noodles, a staple for those seeking something warm and soothing. The noodles are served in a carefully prepared broth made with fresh ingredients and house-made stock, delivering a clean, balanced flavour profile. Diners can choose from four variations — Truffle Kalguksu, Perilla & Ongshimi Kalguksu, Collagen Kalguksu, and Hangover Kalguksu — each offering a slightly different depth and character.

We opted for the Perilla & Ongshimi Kalguksu ($24), which stood out for its rich and comforting profile. The hand-cut noodles had a delightful bite, with a slight chew that made each mouthful satisfying. The broth, thickened with perilla seeds, was nutty and creamy, coating each strand of noodle beautifully for slurp-worthy goodness. It is a deeply comforting bowl that leans towards a more robust, hearty flavour than the other variations.

Earl Grey Highball and Ginseng Highball 3/5

To complement the meal, the Earl Grey Highball ($16) and Ginseng Highball ($16) make a light, refreshing pairing. Each is crafted using whisky infused with its respective ingredient, topped with sparkling water and a twist of lemon. The result is a clean, aromatic drink that is easy to sip, making it a suitable choice even for a casual lunch setting.

Overall, lunch at Song Gye Ok presents a refreshing alternative to its dining experience. With its focus on nourishing soups, hearty mains, and approachable flavours, it caters well to the lunch crowd looking for something both convenient and comforting. Whether it’s a quick solo meal or a casual lunch gathering, the menu strikes a thoughtful balance between indulgence and simplicity.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Song Gye Ok
The Centrepoint
176 Orchard Road
#02-53/54
Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 8088 3850
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11:30am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT Station. Take Exit C. Walk to Orchard Road. Cross the road. Turn right onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Obongzip @ The Star Vista - A Hearty Korean Feast of Nakji, Bossam and Makguksu

Obongzip has expanded its presence in Singapore with a new outlet at The Star Vista, bringing its popular Korean comfort fare to the West. Conveniently located at the exterior of the mall near the taxi stand, the restaurant draws diners in with its signature offerings of fiery stir-fried octopus and comforting bossam platters. For our visit, we went straight for the Obongzip Special ($108), a hearty set comprising Fire-Grilled Spicy Nakji, Pork Bossam, and Makguksu — ideal for sharing.

Banchan 3/5 & Seaweed Soup 4.8/5

Our meal began with a tray of banchan, dipping sauces, and a bowl of Seaweed Soup. The banchan selection offered the usual assortment of pickles and sides to whet the appetite, but the seaweed soup stood out. Light yet deeply comforting, it provided a gentle, savoury warmth that felt almost restorative — a thoughtful prelude to the bold and robust flavours to come.

Fire Grilled Spicy Nakji 4.5/5

The Fire-Grilled Spicy Nakji took centre stage. Available in varying spice levels, the dish features tender octopus stir-fried in a glossy, sweet-spicy sauce alongside vegetables. The staff thoughtfully cuts the octopus into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to enjoy. Each mouthful delivered a satisfying chew, coated in a punchy sauce that balanced sweetness with a lingering heat.

For a more complete experience, we highly recommend ordering a bowl of Seaweed Rice. Mixing the spicy octopus into the rice with a drizzle of sesame oil transforms it into a bibimbap-style dish — deeply flavourful, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying.

Makguksu 4.2/5

The Makguksu is presented differently from what one might expect. Served on a plate with the buckwheat noodles, seaweed, vegetables and sauce laid out separately, the staff will toss everything together tableside before serving. Once mixed, the noodles are evenly coated in the spicy-sweet gochujang sauce. The buckwheat noodles have a delightful chew, while the vegetables lend a refreshing crunch. A splash of vinegar further brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the meal and adding a tangy lift that makes it especially slurp-worthy.

Pork Bossam 4.2/5

The Pork Bossam was another highlight of the meal. The tender slices of boiled pork were soft, juicy, and clean-tasting, with just the right amount of fat for richness. There are multiple ways to enjoy it — on its own to appreciate its natural flavours, paired with kimchi for a punch of acidity, or wrapped in lettuce with garlic and green chilli for a more robust bite. For added depth, dipping the pork into Obongzip’s fermented shrimp sauce or ssamjang further enhances its savoury profile, delivering layers of umami with every bite.

With its generous portions and well-executed dishes, Obongzip at The Star Vista offers a satisfying Korean dining experience, especially for those who enjoy bold, punchy flavours. The Obongzip Special is a great introduction to the restaurant’s signatures, making it a worthwhile spot for group dining or casual get-togethers in the West.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Obongzip
The Star Vista
1 Vista Exchange Green
#01-43/K4
Singapore 138617
Tel: +65 83432251
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 1030pm

Direction:
Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit A or C. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

YeYak Korean Restaurant @ Neil Road - Native Korean Chef with Receipes Rooted in Tradition From Her Grandmother

YeYak, which means “reservation” in Korean, has relocated from Keppel Road to Neil Road, where it has been quietly building a following over the past year. The kitchen is helmed by a native Korean chef, while the front-of-house is managed by her Singaporean husband. Together, bringing a warm, personal touch to the dining experience. Many of the recipes are rooted in tradition, passed down from her grandmother.

The complimentary banchan here comes in three varieties - kimchi, cucumber and potato salad, served free-flow. A pleasant surprise is the japchae, which is served once at no additional charge, unlike many other restaurants. Fragrant with sesame oil, it’s incredibly moreish and hard to stop at just one serving.

Braised Short Ribs LA Galbi 4.8/5

We were recommended the LULA Set ($160), ideal for 3–4 diners. A highlight of the set is the Braised Short Ribs LA Galbi, featuring exceptionally tender beef slow-cooked for nearly 48 hours. The tteokbokki, soaked in the rich, slightly sweet broth, complements the dish beautifully. Interestingly, their version uses miltteok (flour-based rice cakes) instead of the usual rice variety, resulting in a softer, less chewy texture.

Original Spicy Stir-Fried Dakgalbi 3.8/5

Also included in the set is the Original Spicy Stir-Fried Dakgalbi, served bubbling hot with a generous mix of ingredients, including tteokbokki, cabbage, carrots, onions, and tender chicken pieces. The spice level is fairly mild, which is approachable for most, but we found ourselves wishing for a bit more heat and depth. It pairs well with rice, though a bolder flavour profile would further elevate the dish.

Deep Fried Pork Belly 5/5

The Deep Fried Pork Belly is a standout. Served with their signature “magic sauce,” garlic, marinated baby tomatoes, shiso leaves and lettuce wraps, it delivers on both texture and flavour. The pork is crisp on the outside, juicy within and notably free of any unpleasant porky aftertaste. That is such a detail we truly appreciated. Paired with the sauce, this dish is incredibly satisfying and easily one of our favourites.

Bacon Corn Cheese Pancake 4/5

The final item in the set is the Bacon Corn Cheese Pancake, generously layered with melted cheese. While it leans more indulgent than traditional, it’s a must-try for cheese lovers. The sweetness of the corn helps balance the richness of the cheese and bacon. For the best experience, enjoy it hot while the cheese is still perfectly melted.

YeYak Fish Cake Soup 4/5

We also added the YeYak Fish Cake Soup ($18 for 4 sticks), charmingly served in a teapot. While the fish cakes themselves are familiar, it’s the broth that truly shines - light, comforting and especially welcome between heavier dishes. A spray bottle of homemade soy sauce is provided, allowing you to customise the flavour to your liking.

Soy Sauce Marinated Crab 4/5

Another add-on we tried was the Soy Sauce Marinated Crab ($32 for 1, $56 for 2, $72 for 3), served with rice topped with seaweed and spring onions. Unlike other versions that can be overly salty, the marinade here leans towards a balanced sweet-savoury profile, making it more approachable. That said, this dish remains an acquired taste and may not appeal to everyone.

Honey Makgeolli 4.5/5

Sunyang Soju 4.5/5

No Korean meal is complete without drinks. We tried the Honey Makgeolli ($35) and Sunyang Soju ($20), both of which impressed us. The makgeolli, served in a charming pot with a ladle, carries a subtle honeyed fragrance, while the soju is smooth and slightly sweet. Both pair wonderfully with the bold flavours of the dishes.

Looking through their à la carte menu, we appreciate the flexibility in portion sizes, which cater to different group sizes, including solo diners.

The space itself is thoughtfully designed, evoking the charm of traditional Korean hanok village homes with a modern touch. There are also floor seating options that offer a more authentic dining experience, and the walls are adorned with charming artwork by the chef-owner.

What stood out to us during our visit was learning that many of the sauces used across the dishes are made in-house by the chef herself, adding a deeply personal and authentic touch to the overall experience. There are also plans to retail these sauces in the future, which is something to look forward to.

YeYak delivers not just on food, but on atmosphere and storytelling. We will definitely be back.

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


YeYak Korean Restaurant
39 Neil Road
Singapore 088823
Tel: +65 88287770/ 88282011
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 2am

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

MODU Samgyetang Specialty @ Mandarin Gallery - Launches New Nokdu (Mung Beans) Samgyetang

After my visit to MODU last year, I returned to try a new menu item — the Nokdu Samgyetang. It was pleasant to see that the restaurant still draws a long queue of diners eager to savour its comforting ginseng chicken soup. Just like our previous visit, we opted for the 2 Pax Set ($98), which includes an appetiser, a shareable dish, two choices of Samgyetang, and a shared dessert. The set offers a well-rounded sampling of MODU’s offerings while allowing diners to explore the variety of Samgyetang broths available.

HwangTaeChae 5/5

The meal began with HwangTaeChae, a savoury and crisp snack made from dried pollock strips. It reminded me of dried sole fish, but with a sweeter and more umami-laden profile. Light, crunchy and incredibly addictive, it was difficult to stop reaching for more even before the main dishes arrived.

Minari Pancake 4.2/5

For our shareable dish, we went with the Minari Pancake, a unique take on the classic Korean pajeon. The minari (Korean watercress) lends the pancake a bright, herbaceous note, while the addition of Bori shrimp enhances its umami depth. The pancake arrived with a crisp, golden exterior that added to the overall enjoyment, and dipping it into the accompanying special sauce further amplified the flavours.

Nokdu Samgyetang 4.2/5

MODU offers six variations of Samgyetang, and for our first choice, I decided on the Nokdu Samgyetang, a new flavour on the menu. This lighter and revitalising interpretation of Korea’s iconic ginseng chicken soup features mung beans (nokdu) simmered with traditional ingredients. The result is a cleaner, lighter herbal broth that still retains the nourishing qualities the dish is known for. The mung beans impart a gentle nuttiness and natural thickness to the soup, making it comforting yet not overly heavy — perfect for those seeking something wholesome and balanced.

Perilla Seed Samgyetang 4.5/5

We also tried the Perilla Seed Samgyetang, another distinctive variation that stood out for its rich, nutty depth. Ground perilla seeds enrich the broth with a creamy texture and aromatic fragrance that coats the palate beautifully. Compared to the Nokdu version, this felt more robust and hearty, with the perilla lending an earthy, slightly toasted flavour that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken and herbal broth.

GotGam Mari 4/5

To wrap up the meal, we were served GotGam Mari, a dried persimmon stuffed with cream cheese and walnuts. The dehydration intensifies the persimmon’s natural sweetness, giving it a luscious, chewy texture. The creamy cheese filling adds a slightly tangy contrast, while the walnuts provide a pleasant crunch, rounding off the meal on a sweet and satisfying note.

Overall, the return visit to MODU reaffirmed why the restaurant continues to draw crowds for its comforting Korean ginseng chicken soup. The 2 Pax Set offers a satisfying and well-balanced way to experience the menu, from the addictive HwangTaeChae to the flavourful Minari Pancake. Among the Samgyetang selections, the Nokdu version impressed with its lighter, more wholesome profile, while the Perilla Seed Samgyetang delivered richer, nuttier depth for those who prefer a heartier broth. Rounded off with the delightful GotGam Mari dessert, the meal showcased MODU’s thoughtful approach to traditional flavours with distinctive variations. For anyone craving nourishing Korean comfort food, MODU remains a worthwhile destination.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


MODU Samgyetang Specialty
Mandarin Gallery
333A Orchard Road
#02-37
Singapore 238897
Tel: +65 8035 8833
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun, PH eve & PH: 1130am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Onggii @ Suntec City - Soulful, 28-Hour Traditional Korean Broths for the Soul

Tucked inside Suntec City, Onggii is a cosy Korean spot dedicated to soulful traditional broths and stews — the kind that truly feels like home. The star here is their Signature Gomtang, a deeply comforting soup made by simmering bones for 28 hours to extract all that rich, nourishing flavour.

Dweji Gomtang 4.2/5

Dweji Gomtang ($16.90). Delivering beautifully layered broths that is hearty and soothing. You can even add noodles and/or rice into the soup, turning it into an even more satisfying bowl. The pork sliced into big pieces, tender, lean meat with a good ratio of fats. Other available gomtang available are So Gomtang (Ox Bones), Beef Wang Galbi Gomtang, Dak Gomtang (Chicken), Gamjatang (Pork Bone Soup).

Beef Ugeojitang 4/5

We also tried the Beef Ugeojitang ($19.90), served in a mildly spicy broth filled with beef strips and vegetables. Much like the Dweji Gomtang, diners can add the accompanying rice or noodles into the soup, turning it into a substantial one-bowl meal. The broth carries a gentle heat that adds depth to the overall flavour. However, while the soup itself was enjoyable, the beef strips were slightly tough.

So Galbi Jjim 4.2/5

Another highlight was the So Galbi Jjim ($34.90), tender braised beef ribs coated in a sweet, deeply flavoured sauce that makes it hard to stop at one bite. I like the part on the bone with a resistant from the tendon. It also comes with crunchy lotus root that has absorbed the sweet sauce.

For those seeking comforting Korean soups in the heart of the city, Onggii offers a satisfying selection of traditional broths that focus on depth of flavour and homely warmth. The slow-simmered gomtang delivers a nourishing and soothing experience, while dishes like the So Galbi Jjim provide a richer complement to the meal. Whether you are looking for a hearty bowl of soup or a comforting Korean meal, Onggii is a worthwhile stop when dining at Suntec City.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Onggii
Suntec City
3 Temasek Boulevard
#02-300
Singapore 038983
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 330pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

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]