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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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]