Province @ Joo Chiat Road - A Sumptuous Exploration of Southeast Asian Summer Flavours

Returning to Province at Joo Chiat Road to experience their new Summer menu was a delight, especially after the impressive Autumn tasting we enjoyed before. Chef-owner Law Jia-Jun continues to demonstrate his creativity and skill in crafting dishes inspired by Southeast Asian ingredients, flavours, and techniques, delivering an exceptional dining experience. This 7-course dinner ($148++) is a seasonal journey that showcases the beauty and diversity of regional flavours in a refined and elevated way.

Caviar & Indonesian Flower Crab Tartlet 4.2/5

Our meal began with a couple of delicate snacks, starting with the Caviar & Indonesian Flower Crab Tartlet. The natural sweetness of the flower crab paired wonderfully with the briny pop of the caviar, creating a harmonious bite. The tartlet provided a satisfying crunch that contrasted beautifully with the tender, flavourful filling, setting the tone for the creativity we would see throughout the evening.

Panipuri with Horse Mackerel & Ginger Flower 4/5

Next was the Panipuri with Horse Mackerel & Ginger Flower, a bite-sized marvel inspired by local flavours. The bold inclusion of ginger flower evoked the flavours of rojak, and the crispy shell offered a pleasing contrast to the tender mackerel. This dish was a perfect blend of textures and an exciting tribute to familiar Southeast Asian ingredients in a new format.

Lobster Croustade 4.2/5

The last of our opening snacks was the Lobster Croustade. Presented in a house-made kueh pie tee shell infused with seaweed, this luxe twist on the traditional snack featured a filling of lobster and crispy broccoli for added texture. The croustade was garnished with delicate flower petals from Thailand, making this elegant dish as visually captivating as it was delicious.

Momotaro Tomato & Shiro Sorbet 4.8/5

Our first course was the Momotaro Tomato topped with Shiro Sorbet, a refreshing and umami-filled dish. The Japanese Momotaro tomato, sourced from Cameron Highlands, was beautifully sweet. It was peeled, stuffed with confit tomatoes, and cooked down to intensify the flavour, then topped with shiro sorbet and puffed quinoa for added crunch. The sorbet’s savoury notes paired seamlessly with the tomato, creating a balanced and layered bite.

Squid from Jurong Fishery Port 4.5/5

The Squid from Jurong Fishery Port was another unique and flavourful dish. Tender and slightly charred, the green-eye squid lay hidden beneath a silky Beurre Blanc sauce. Sambal mata added a touch of heat, while fermented kedondong introduced a subtle acidity, enhancing the dish's complexity without overpowering the delicate squid.

White Trevally with Seaweed XO 4/5

Next came the White Trevally with Seaweed XO, showcasing another unconventional fish. The white trevally had a smooth, buttery texture, and its lean, firm flesh was enhanced by the house-made seaweed XO sauce, which lent a local sambal stingray-like taste. This dish truly captured a sense of place, marrying local seafood traditions with sophisticated techniques.

Charcoal-grilled Aged Sarawak Pork 4.2/5

The Charcoal-grilled Aged Sarawak Pork was a revelation. Grilled over coals and smoked with hay, this aged pork had a perfect char and deep smoky aroma while remaining tender and juicy. It was served with edamame, mustard, and a rich pork wine reduction jus, creating a well-rounded dish that was both hearty and complex.

La Mian with Clams and Okra 4.5/5

A comforting bowl of La Mian with Clams and Okra followed, a nod to Chef Law's weekend family meals. Made with house-made noodles, grilled okra, and clams from the Philippines, the dish was bathed in a chicken consommé infused with tropical flavours from lemongrass, kaffir lime, and Vietnamese lime. This simple yet vibrant soup provided a soothing transition from the heavier dishes, signalling the end of the savoury courses.

Osmanthus & Wild Sumac 4.2/5

The dessert course began with Osmanthus Aiyu Jelly paired with compressed melon for a burst of sweetness. A wild sumac granita added refreshing acidity, while Ulam Raja introduced subtle earthy undertones that balanced the sour notes. This multi-dimensional dessert was a symphony of flavours, evoking the lightness and freshness of summer.

Grilled Pineapple and Millet Syphon 4/5

The final dessert was a delightful Grilled Pineapple and Millet Syphon. The pineapple, compressed with gula melaka and grilled over charcoal, had a beautiful caramelised sweetness. It was paired with millet foam and coconut yoghurt ice cream, which added a creamy and tangy component, rounding out the dish with a tropical flair.

Province's Summer menu is a beautiful homage to Southeast Asia, highlighting seasonal ingredients with creativity and respect for tradition. Chef Law's passion for reimagining local flavours shines through in every dish, providing a unique dining experience that feels both familiar and innovative. Province's summer menu is not to be missed for anyone seeking a refined yet playful exploration of regional flavours.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Province
(Located inside 808 Eating House)
153 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427431
Tel: +65 8075 1896
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Thu-Sat (Lunch)
1st Seating: 12.30pm

Tue-Sat (Dinner)
1st Seating : 6.15pm
2nd Seating : 8.30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus 33. Alight 5 stops later. Walk across the open-air carpark. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to Sims Ave. Cross the road and walk to Tanjong Katong Road. Walk down Tanjong Katong Road to Geylang Road. Cross the road, turn left and walk down Geylang Road. Walk to Joo Chiat Road. Turn right onto Joo Chiat Road. Walk down Joo Chiat Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Soaring Into a Prosperous Lunar New Year 2024 with Crystal Jade Group of Restaurants

As the vibrant Lunar New Year approaches, Crystal Jade Group, with its esteemed portfolio of 19 casual and fine dining outlets, stands ready to welcome the Year of the Dragon in grand style. Renowned for its culinary prowess, the group unveils an extraordinary line-up of dishes and set menus, promising a dining experience that is nothing short of exceptional.

Prosperity Yu Sheng with Boston Lobster Tail, Aburi Scallop & Fruit 4.8/5

Commencing the celebratory feast is the Prosperity Yu Sheng with Boston Lobster Tail, Aburi Scallop & Fruit ($138 small/ $208 large). This masterpiece is a symphony of flavours and textures, featuring fresh and dried fruits like juicy red dragon fruit, tangy green mango, sweet longan, pomelo sacs, dried apricot, and jackfruit. It creates a vivid and delectable medley with tomatoes, purple cabbage, cucumber, deep-fried yam strips, pickled onions, walnuts, and crunchy Hsin Chu bee hoon. Dressed with scallion oil and an Okinawa acerola juice-infused plum sauce, this yusheng is light, refreshing, and immensely appetising.

Available at Crystal Jade Palace, Crystal Jade Golden Palace and Crystal Jade Pavilion for dine-in and takeaway

Double-boiled Kampong Chicken with Fish Maw, Sea Whelk & Maitake Mushroom Soup 4.2/5

The Double-boiled Kampong Chicken with Fish Maw, Sea Whelk & Maitake Mushroom ($42.80 per person) is a heartwarming start to the feast—a bowl of nourishing soup brimming with rich flavours and wholesome ingredients.

Available at Crystal Jade Pavilion

Pan-fried South Africa Abalone with Assorted Mushroom & Crispy Leek 4/5

A highlight is the inventive Pan-fried South African Abalone with Assorted Mushrooms and Crispy Leek ($48 per person). The abalone, first steamed and then pan-seared, retains its inherent sweetness. Fragrant deep-fried leeks and mushrooms in an abalone liver sauce enhance the dish, offering a delightful twist on this Chinese New Year delicacy.

Available at Crystal Jade Golden Palace

Pan-fried Dace Fish Paste with Black Moss in Shunde Style 3.5/5

Nostalgia takes centre stage with the Pan-fried Dace Fish Paste with Black Moss in Shunde Style ($39.80 for a whole). This old-school classic involves meticulous preparation—removing fish flesh, mixing it with various ingredients, stuffing it back into the fish, and deep-frying to a golden brown. While a bit bony, it evokes a sense of tradition.

Available at Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen

Premium Loin Rib coated with Cointreau Orange Sauce 4.2/5

For a sumptuous treat, savour the Premium Loin Rib coated with Cointreau Orange Sauce ($42 regular). Fork-tender, tasty to the bone, and bathed in a luscious sauce intensified with orange-flavoured liqueur, this dish is a celebration of succulence.

Available at Crystal Jade Palace

Eight Treasure Vegetable wrapped in Beancurd Skin 4.8/5

A new festive takeaway highlight is the Eight Treasure Vegetable wrapped in Beancurd Skin ($29.80), a visually stunning centrepiece. This vegetarian delight features artfully arranged shiitake mushrooms, large dried scallops, lotus seeds, glass noodles, wood ear mushrooms, and black moss, braised in a luscious sauce that ties the dish together beautifully.

Dry La Mian with Prawn, Celtuce & Lobster Oil 3.5/5

Delight in the Dry La Mian with Prawn, Celtuce & Lobster Oil ($15.80 for a regular portion). Al dente noodle strands, slicked with homemade lobster oil, are crowned with a delectable combo of prawns and spring onions.

Available at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao

Green Tea, Tangerine Peel & Red Bean Ruyi Roll, Lava Kumquat Taro Puree Doughnut

Round off the feast with two delightful desserts. The Green Tea, Tangerine Peel & Red Bean Ruyi Roll ($10.80 for four pieces) presents a soft and pleasantly chewy jade-green glutinous rice flour roll enveloping smooth red bean paste accented with tangerine peel. Additionally, the Lava Kumquat Taro Purée Doughnut ($12.80 for four pieces) offers light and fluffy deep-fried balls filled with taro puree, elevated with a touch of kumquat zest.

Available at Crystal Jade Palace (Ruiy Roll), Crystal Jade Golden Palace (Doughnut)

Well-regarded for its impeccable cuisine and service, Crystal Jade offers something for every reunion, whether for a large gathering or an intimate celebration. Group Executive Chef Martin Foo and his team of chefs have meticulously crafted an extensive variety of delicious and auspicious specialities, ensuring that the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration is off to a roaring start. Takeaway goodies can be pre-ordered online at estore.crystaljade.com and outlets from December 5, 2023, to February 25, 2024. Pick up your orders from select outlets between January 19 and February 25, 2024.

Note: This is an invited tasting.

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Showcasing Best of Irish Produces, Silver Hill Duck, John Stone Dry-Aged Beef and Hampshire Pork

Man Fu Yuan at InterContinental Singapore has partnered with the Irish Duck Company to present 'The Best of Irish Showcase.' From 1 October 1st to 15 November, three 6-course menus highlighting some of Ireland's finest produce will be offered for lunch and dinner. Irish Duck Company is the exclusive distributor that first brought the world-famous Silver Hill Duck to Asia, and thanks to them, we get to savour the 'wagyu of duck' right here in Singapore. They are now ready to introduce the exquisite John Stone Dry-Aged Beef and Hampshire Pork to Singapore. In the hands of Man Fu Yuan's Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan, these premium Irish meats to the table, highlighting their qualities with Cantonese traditional flavours and techniques.

Appetiser 4.5/5

Each of the 3 menus brings together all three of these finest Irish products in a single menu. We tried the Elegant Set Menu. We started with an appetiser featuring John Stone Irish Smoked Salmon Flower with wasabi aioli, Chilled Cherry Vine Tomatoes with crab meat and Chilled John Stone Dry-Aged Beef. The aged beef, infused with the aged-citrus honey soya sauce, intensified the already rich flavour, creating an incredibly meaty texture. The smoked salmon was just as delectable with its luscious texture and deep flavour. The exquisite crab meat added balance to the dish, introducing a sweet and refreshing note that harmonised the flavours beautifully.

Soup 4/5

The Soup course was a Braised Golden Bird's Nest with golden pumpkin superior stock. The soup had an incredible depth of flavour with a slight creamy consistency.

Wok-fried John Stone Irish Lamb Loin 3/5

The 3rd course is Hong Kong Kailan with Wok-fried John Stone Irish Lamb Loin with Sarawak black pepper sauce. The lamb loin was succulent, tender, and quite delicate on the level of gaminess. The black pepper sauce, however, was too much for me.

Braised Irish Hampshire Pork Belly 5/5

Next was Braised Irish Hampshire Pork Belly with South African 5-head Abalone. A very considered dish - a sumptuous pork belly with an ideal balance between meat and fat, resulting in an unctuous delight. To complement this decadent meat, a 5-head abalone was paired with the pork belly, tender and infused with the rich flavours of the braising sauce.

XO Chinese La Mian with Rock Lobster, Silver Hill Irish Duck 4/5

The last main was a much-anticipated dish - XO Chinese La Mian with Rock Lobster and Silver Hill Irish Duck in XO sauce. Like the previous course, pairing relatively fatty meat with lean seafood created a harmonious balance between two exquisite ingredients, enhancing the other's qualities. The XO sauce didn't work for me.

Oven-baked Mango Pudding 4/5

The dessert is Oven-baked Mango Pudding, which is extra comforting. It is served warm in the traditional way.

The Elegant Set Menu, ideal for 3 to 5 persons, is priced at $228 per person. All set menus include an optional wine-pairing option at $68++ per person.

Photos and 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.


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm

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

Western Mahua (西部马华) @ Vivocity - Delicious Handmade Lanzhou La Mian, Pulled And Cooked On The Spot

Recently I have seen a number of Western Mahua (西部马华) restaurants, specialising in Lanzhou La Mian, popping up in different areas in Singapore. They have three outlets now at Vivocity, PLQ and Holland Village. I always go to the outlet at Vivocity, which is nearer to my home. Surprisingly, after my first try of its noodle, I am a convert and have been going back a few times.

Signature Sliced Beef "La Mian" with Superior Bone Soup 4/5

I usually had the Signature Sliced Beef "La Mian" with Superior Bone Soup ($9.80/$11.80). The clear bone soup is boiled for six hours resulting in a light yet robust soup base, complementing the handmade noodles. The Vivocity outlet I usually go to has the full view of the chef making and cooking the noodles from scratch upon receiving your order.

An interesting fact is you can choose the wide of the noodles. There are nine different choices from 1mm to 50mm. We have the 2mm (普通细) and 15mm (中宽). My preference is the 15mm texture. It is broader and has more bite, giving it a more textural enjoyment than the thinner noodle.

Pickled Chicken Soup Chicken/Beef La Mian 3.8/5

Another variety on the menu is the Pickled Chicken Soup La Mian ($11.80). You can choose either to have chicken or beef for the protein. The soup is light and appetising, packed with a sourish profile from the pickled Chinese mustard with a hint of spiciness.

Braised Beef in Pita 3.5/5

Besides the noodles, there are other items on the menu, such as the Braised Beef in Pita ($6/pc) and Lamb Skewer ($3.80/pc). I felt the pita bread was a bit dry. I prefer it to be more fluffy. The saving grace is that the braised beef stuffing was well-marinated with a lovely aroma from the spices. I also applauded that it has a good mix of fatty cuts, so it is not dry. If you like lamb, then the lamb skewer rubbed and grilled in aromatic spices is a must-order.

Lamb Skewer 4.2/5

Tell you a tip. If you dine at Western Mahua outlet at Vivocity, you can also order from the menu from Ali Jiang, the sister restaurant beside the noodle restaurant.


Western Mahua (西部马华)
Vivocity
1 Harbourfront Walk
#03-11
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 62524979
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to the top floor of the shopping mall. The restaurant is located at the sky park area. Journey time about 5 minutes [Map]

Town Restaurant @ The Fullerton Hotel Singapore - The New Sunday Brunch Experience

The Sunday Brunch at Town Restaurant runs an amazing spread of international cuisine from 12pm to 3pm on Sundays. It is priced at $120++ per adult (free flow juices and soft drinks) or $173++ for free flow house pour wine, beer, brut champagne, bloody mary and others.

Chilled Seafood Galore

We were first served with the Chilled Seafood Galore upon being seated - an amazing Crustacean spread of spanner crab, half Maine lobster, tiger prawns, half-shelled scallop and snow crab leg.

Sashimi & Maki Roll Platter

It is followed by the Sashimi & Maki Roll platter for your fill of the Japanese cuisine. The platter includes fresh cuts of salmon, hamachi, octopus and yellowfin sashimi, the California maki, and different sushi available, such as the Hamachi, Salmon, Unagi, Octopus, Yellow Fin Tuna sushi.

Butcher Block Charcuterie

We also ordered the Butcher Block Charcuterie of Parma Ham, Duck Rillettes, Saucisson, and Wagyu Bresaola Pizza Bread.

Agemono

We particularly enjoyed the Agemono. The potato croquette is crisp on the outside with a thin fried batter layer and incredibly fluffy inside. Alongside with a crispy breaded ebi, cheese net ball, and a side of Japanese mayonnaise.

Trio Meat Platter

Moving on to the Asian delights, we had the trio meat platter of roasted duck, crispy crackling pork belly, and honey-glazed char siew that was succulent and tender.

Lan Zhou Hand Pulled La Mian Noodles

Town’s Signature Tender-Poached Chicken Rice

Not to be missed is their selection of local favourites. The Lan Zhou Hand Pulled La Mian Noodles comes in a flavourful rich broth, with tender-braised wagyu beef cheek, Szechuan chilli, and scallion oil. We also enjoyed the Town’s Signature Tender-Poached Chicken Rice with housemade chilli and ginger.

6-Hour Braised Australian Lamb Shank

Some of my favourite western classics from the grill include the 6-Hour Braised Australian Lamb Shank paired with red wine sauce. Each dish is freshly prepared upon order. The slow cooking turned the tough cut of lamb into the softest and most fork-tender meat, packed with rich flavours from the braising.

Dessert PLatter

We ended the meal on a sweet note with their desserts platter, which comes in a theatrical presentation of dry ice. A gorgeous treats lined up on display, including assorted macaron, Fullerton fudge cake, rose lychee raspberry, coconut kaya mango-passion trifle, and vanilla strawberry chiffon shortcake. From the desserts menu, there is also an ice cream platter and sliced tropical fruits.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Town Restaurant
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
1 Fullerton Square
Singapore 049178
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Breakfast (Daily): 630am - 1030am
Sunday Brunch: 1230pm - 330pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT Station. Take Exit H. Turn right and walk towards the river. At the river, turn right again and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes [Map]

Mian Jia Noodle Bar (麺家料理) @ Holland Village - Blown Away By the Super Shiok Mala Spicy Lobster Broth

I have not visited Holland Village since the start of the circuit breaker, and during this period it seems that there are quite a few changes. One of the newest addition to the F&B scene at Holland Village is Mian Jia Noodle Bar (麺家料理) which opened during the pandemic last year. To be exact, it relocated from Alexandra Central to its current location.

Lobster Prosperous Treasure Pot 4.5/5

For the upcoming Lunar New Year, Mian Jia Noodle Bar has launched the Lobster Prosperous Treasure Pot ($288). Quote "TENOFF" to enjoy 10% discount. Call or visit the restaurant to place your order, takeaway only as there is limited quantity. Unlike other Pen Cai, the treasure pot comes in a drinkable lobster bisque broth that comes brimming with premium ingredients. Customers can look forward to a sumptuous feast of Boston lobster, 10 heads braised abalone, Australian golden sea cucumber, Japanese scallops, Shajing oyster, Spanish Duroc pork ribs, handmade shrimp balls, braised chicken mid wings, bean root, pumpkin and Chinese cabbage.

Live Boston Lobster Broth Noodle 4.5/5

Signature at Mian Jia Noodle Bar is their Live Boston Lobster Broth Noodle ($26.90). There is both the Non-Spicy and Mala version. I got to try both versions, and I was blown away by the robust broth that is full of depth. The Mala version is beyond my expectation, the addition of peppercorn elevated the flavour to a whole new level. To be frank, I cannot decide which I like. Worth mentioning is the la mian noodle that has been cooked to a delectable consistency. The restaurant has specially imported the special cooking machine for consistency in every bowl.

Special Stewed Iberico Pork with Homemade Wanton Dry Noodle 4/5

Besides noodle soups, the restaurant also offers a variety of dry noodles. One of them is the Special Stewed Iberico Pork with Homemade Wanton Dry Noodle ($15.90). The chunky pork pieces may look sort of dry, but it melted in my mouth when I sunk my tooth into it. Give the la mian a good toss, to coat the sweet, savoury dark sauce on each noodle stand for a slurping enjoyment. The sauce reminds me of Malaysian kolo mee.

Crispy Crusted Chicken Cutlet 3.8/5

There are several side dishes on top of the dry and noodle soup on the menu to complete the meal. I tried the Crispy Crusted Chicken Cutlet ($6.90) though the skin was not as crispy as I would have like, the chicken was surprisingly very tender and juicy.

Spicy Chilli Oil Homemade Wanton 3.5/5

I also had the Spicy Chilli Oil Homemade Wanton ($5.90) which looks more like a dumpling than wanton. It is plump and juicy, dressed in spicy and fragrant chilli oil.

If not for my friend's introduction to this place, I probably would not have known of the restaurant as it  is hidden away at the end of the road from sight. I am glad that I have discovered a new noodle place that serves a delicious and a quality bowl of noodle. 

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mian Jia Noodle Bar (麺家料理) 
19 Lorong Liput
Singapore 277732
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B or C. Walk to Lorong Liput. Walk towards the junction of Lorong Liput and Lorong Mambong. Turn left onto Lorong Liput. Walk to the end of the road. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]