Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) @ Paragon - Toss to a Prosperous Lunar New Year to Usher in The Year of The Horse

Gather friends and family to toss to a prosperous Lunar New Year at Din Tai Fung with their festive range of Yu Sheng. We visited the Paragon outlet with the family for an early celebration.

Abundance Abalone Yu Sheng 4.2/5

Thoughtfully offered in three assortments, diners can choose from the Prosperity Smoked Salmon Yu Sheng, Abundance Abalone Yu Sheng and Vegetarian Prosperity Yu Sheng, catering to different preferences. Additional toppings, such as Fried Salmon Skin, are also available for extra indulgence.

The Abundance Abalone Yu Sheng won the hearts of my dining companions for how clean and refreshing it tasted, while studded with Fried Salmon Skin and Smoked Salmon Slices. We particularly appreciated the addition of fried yam strips, which provided a strong textural contrast. The plum dressing was mildly sweetened, just the way we like it.

Each Yu Sheng platter ordered includes a limited-edition Din Tai Fung red packet and an adorable mascot coin pouch. From 23 Jan to 3 Mar 2026, diners can enjoy:

● 10% off any 1 Yu Sheng or 15% off any 2 Yu Sheng (DBS/POSB Cardholders)

● An $8 Din Tai Fung e-voucher for your next visit, with the purchase of any Yu Sheng via the BreadTalk Group Rewards App

*Note: Promotions are available for dine-in and takeaway at all Din Tai Fung restaurants except Novena Square Mall, while stocks last.

Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing 4/5

After a prosperous toss, we moved on to Din Tai Fung’s classic, comforting dishes, starting with the Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing, which remains a crowd-favourite starter. Served chilled, it is refreshing with pleasant, tangy notes that awaken the palate.

Deep Fried Handmade Tofu with Lotus Roots & Mushrooms 4/5

It was our first time trying this Chef’s Special - the Deep Fried Handmade Tofu with Lotus Roots & Mushrooms, and we were pleasantly surprised. The tofu had a thin, crisp exterior while remaining soft inside, with added texture from the lotus roots and mushroom bits.

Crispy Golden Prawn Pancake 4/5

Fried to a beautiful golden-brown, the Crispy Golden Prawn Pancake is another side perfect for sharing. It’s thin yet filled with juicy prawn chunks.

Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao 4/5

The Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao is a staple you’ll spot on almost every table. Each dumpling comes with delicate skin encasing tender pork and a good amount of savoury broth. Beyond this signature flavour, there are other variations, including Steamed Crab Meat & Pork, Chicken, Shrimp & Pork, Truffle & Pork, Vegetarian, and more.

Fried Rice with Pork Chop & Eggs 4/5

Similarly iconic is the Fried Rice with Pork Chop & Eggs. We appreciate how consistent the quality is across outlets, delivering a fragrant, well-fried plate every time. Enjoy it plain or topped with shrimp, shredded pork, truffles, or a hearty pork chop.

Noodle with Vegetable & Pork Wantons in Peanut Sesame Sauce 4/5

For noodles, we opted for the Noodle with Vegetable & Pork Wantons in Peanut Sesame Sauce. The noodles were cooked perfectly with a bite and carried the fragrant, nutty sauce well. There’s a light kick of heat in this, but not too spicy. You can also order this with Shrimp & Pork Wantons.

Steamed Strawberry Mochi Xiao Long Bao 2/5

Joining the menu from 1 Feb 2026 is the Steamed Strawberry Mochi Xiao Long Bao. Served fresh off the steamer, it features a mochi exterior with a strawberry filling made from Korean strawberries. We would prefer the skin to be thinner and softer for a more balanced bite.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
Paragon Shopping Centre
#B1 - 03
290 Orchard Road
Singapore 238859
Tel: +65 6836 8336
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 9.15pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. At the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link, cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 2 or 3. Proceed to the road level. Walk down Orchard Road until the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road and walk to Paragon. Journey time is about 12 minutes. [Map]

Violet Oon Singapore @ Dempsey Hill - Launches Four CNY Set Menus For Intimate Gatherings in an Elegant Setting

For the upcoming Chinese New Year, Violet Oon Singapore at Dempsey introduces festive set menus available exclusively within its private dining rooms. Four specially curated Chinese New Year set menus are available, designed for intimate gatherings in an elegant setting.

VO Fragrant Yu Sheng 5/5

The Prosperity Sharing Set Menu (from S$148++ per person) opens with the VO Fragrant Yu Sheng. I have always enjoyed the addition of kaffir lime leaves in this rendition, and here, their presence was especially generous. The sharp, citrusy fragrance was further elevated by pink ginger flower, while an increased amount of julienned beetroot and the inclusion of ice plant, known for its heightened crunch, added both texture and freshness to the dish.

Hee Peow Soup 5/5

This was followed by an individually served bowl of Hee Peow Soup, a seasonal Peranakan Lunar New Year classic. The comforting broth is slow-simmered using a superior pork and chicken stock, enriched with whole baby abalone, fish maw, sea cucumber, and impressively juicy house-made prawn, crab, fish and pork balls.

Kuey Pie Tee 3/5

Ngoh Hiang 4/5

Starters included Kuay Pie Tee and Ngoh Hiang. Both were well seasoned, with the latter offering a tender bite. The addition of water chestnut provided a pleasant crunch that balanced the richness and meatiness of the filling.

Beef Rendang 4.5/5

For Mains, the slow-braised Beef Rendang featured beef shin braised in spices and kaffir lime leaves, then finished in coconut milk, resulting in fork-tender meat that was both rich and crowd-pleasing.

Ayam Buah Keluak 4.5/5

I particularly enjoyed the equally well-executed Ayam Buah Keluak, notable for its punchy gravy and generous chunks of buah keluak that delivered depth and intensity.

Garam Assam Fish 4.5/5

Garam Assam Fish was another highlight, featuring red snapper in a spicy-sour gravy accented with pineapple and pink ginger flower. The pineapples were thinly sliced, and their fruity tartness made the dish even more appetising.

Udang Goreng Chilli 3/5

Udang Goreng Chilli showcased angka prawns topped with chilli padi and garlic rempah. While flavourful, the dish leaned slightly towards greasy.

Chap Chye 4/5

Chap Chye, braised in a full-bodied prawn bisque that impressed with its deep savouriness, but the cabbage needed a much longer stewing time to soften thoroughly.

Nasi Ulam 5/5

One of my favourite dishes of the meal was the herbaceous Nasi Ulam. Diced prawns were folded into the rice, adding sweetness and textural contrast that complemented the raw, aromatic herbs.

Handmade Perankan Kueh 4/5

Dessert concluded the meal with a thoughtful selection of Handmade Peranakan Kueh, including Ang Ku Kueh, Kueh Kochi and Kueh Ambon. Both the ang ku kueh and kueh ambon stood out for their texture, with the kueh ambon being exceptionally spongy, though the overall sweetness could be toned down slightly.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Violet Oon Singapore
Dempsey Hill
7 Dempsey Road
#01-05
Singapore 249671
Tel: +65 9834 9935
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Nearest MRT: Napier (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to the bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alright 2 stops later. Walk to Dempsey Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes.[Map]

Kai Duck @ Takashimaya - Spring into Prosperity with an Elevated 2026 Festive Menu that Celebrates Both Tradition and Indulgence.

Kai Duck at Takashimaya welcomes the Year of the Horse with a thoughtfully curated collection of dine-in set menus and takeaway offerings that celebrate both tradition and indulgence.

Prosperity South African Yu Sheng 4.5/5

The Harmony Set (S$568++ for four diners) begins with a Prosperity South African Yu Sheng tossed in olive oil for a lighter, cleaner finish, allowing the freshness of the ingredients to shine without weighing down the palate.

Double-boiled Shark’s Fin Soup 4.5/5

This was followed by a luxurious classic, the Double-boiled Shark’s Fin Soup with Chicken. The collagen-rich broth was rich-bodied and gelatinous, delivering a sense of indulgence in every spoonful.

Roasted Duck with Black Truffle Sauce 4.8/5

Next came the restaurant’s signature Roasted Duck with Black Truffle Sauce. The Irish duck was succulent, with beautifully crisped skin, while the black truffle sauce was well put together, lending just a subtle earthy lift to the dish.

Steamed Sliced Garoupa Fish 4/5

The set also includes Steamed Sliced Garoupa Fish with Celery and Black Fungus in Superior Soya Sauce. The fish was firm yet moist, its mild sweetness enhanced by the savoury umami notes of the soya sauce.

Wok-fried Hot Pot Panda Rice 4/5

One of the highlights of this year’s set menu is the Wok-fried Hot Pot Panda Rice with Bacon and Bolete Mushroom. Specially imported from Sichuan, China, Panda Rice is prized for its higher nutritional value and lower glycaemic index. The grains were slightly translucent with a gentle bounce, pleasantly non-starchy, and every bite was fragrant with wok hei and intensely moreish.

Supreme Fortune Pot 5/5

Supreme Fortune Pot is part of Kai Duck’s takeaway Millionaire Chinese New Year Set (minimum one day advance booking required; self-collection only). Each set comes with one Big Sweep Ticket*. The opulent pen cai features 15 premium ingredients, including South African abalone, sea cucumber, golden oyster mushrooms, fish maw, fatt choy, braised pork belly, and Kai Duck’s signature roasted duck. A standout for me was the inclusion of chunky radish and yam, which were wonderfully soft and thoroughly infused with the rich, savoury gravy.

*Big Sweep tickets are issued and administered by Singapore Pools, an independent third party. Kai Duck is not affiliated and is not responsible for prize claims or redemption.

BBQ Pork 4.5/5

The takeaway set also includes a platter of BBQ Pork. Marinated for over 12 hours and roasted for more than 40 minutes, the pork was unctuous and juicy, finished with a mouthwatering caramelised char.

Pan-fried Handmade Glutinous Rice Cake 4/5

Dessert rounded off the meal with a duo of sweets. A lightly tart and refreshing Chilled Mango Sago with Pomelo, alongside Pan-fried Handmade Glutinous Rice Cake, provides a comforting and homely end to the festive feast.

Early Bird discount for Take Away Set
15% off for orders from 1 Januaryto 8 February 2026
10% off for orders from 9 to 15 February 2026.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Kai Duck
Takashimaya
391 Orchard Road
#05-10/11
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 62355419
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line), Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 545pm - 10pm
Fri: 1130am - 5pm, 545pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 5pm, 545pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight at Ngee Ann City until destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ Fraser House, a Luxury Collection Hotel - Ushers in The Year of The Horse with an Impressive Line-up of Seven Festive Set Menus

Man Fu Yuan at Fraser House by a Luxury Collection Hotel ushers in the Year of the Horse with an impressive line-up of seven thoughtfully curated festive set menus, starting from $168++ per person. Designed to cater to celebrations of all scales – from intimate family reunions to large corporate gatherings – the menus also include a refined vegetarian option, reflecting both inclusivity and finesse in their festive offerings.

Celestial Auspicious Yu Sheng 4/5

A definite showstopper of the season is the spectacular 88cm Celestial Auspicious Yu Sheng ($1,288++, serves up to 10), dramatically crowned with a 1.2m mythical horse in mid-leap, symbolising strength, vitality and boundless possibilities for the year ahead. Beyond its visual impact, the Yu Sheng impresses with its lavish selection of premium ingredients – abalone, rock lobster, ikura, crispy shredded dried Hokkaido scallop, salmon sashimi, crispy fish skin and auspicious condiments – tossed in a fragrant golden peach–passion fruit sauce and shallot oil. The combination delivers both textural contrast and a well-balanced sweet-tangy finish, making it a festive centrepiece worthy of the occasion.

Cantonese Lobster Soup, Crab Meat, Crab Roe, Premium Fish Maw 4.2/5

The luxurious bowl of Cantonese Lobster Soup is an umami-laden delight. Rich with crab meat, crab roe and premium fish maw, the broth carries deep crustacean sweetness, elevated further by the briny richness of the roe. The tender, gelatinous fish maw adds an indulgent textural contrast, making each spoonful comforting yet opulent.

Steamed Alaskan King Crab, Egg White, 15-Year Chinese Wine, Scallion 4.5/5

Another elegant seafood dish follows: Steamed Alaskan King Crab, served on a silky bed of egg white. Lightly perfumed with 15-year Chinese wine and finished with scallions, the dish highlights the crab's natural sweetness. The egg white, steamed with the crustacean, absorbs its essence beautifully, resulting in a refined, aromatic plate.

Salt-baked Chicken with Red Rice Wine, Dongjiang Style 4.2/5

The Salt-baked Chicken with Red Rice Wine is baked to tender perfection, retaining its succulence beneath a gently seasoned exterior. The addition of red rice wine enhances the aroma and adds a subtle fermented sweetness, lending depth and complexity to this comforting classic.

Steamed Silver Cod Fillet, Duo Garlic, 15-Year Preserved Radish, Superior Soya Sauce 4.2/5

A delicate showcase of technique, the Steamed Silver Cod Fillet highlights the fish's buttery richness and flaky texture. The pairing with duo garlic, aged preserved radish and superior soya sauce accentuates its natural sweetness, creating a clean yet deeply satisfying flavour profile.

Wuxi-style Braised Iberico Pork Belly, 18-Head South African Premium Dried Abalone 4.8/5

One of the standout dishes of the evening is the duo of Wuxi-style Braised Iberico Pork Belly and 18-head South African Premium Dried Abalone with broccoli. The pork belly, with its perfect ratio of fat to lean, is wobbly tender and melts in the mouth – indulgent yet not greasy. The abalone is equally impressive, cooked to tender perfection with a molten centre, a clear testament to the chef's mastery of this prized ingredient. This dish alone justifies the menu's premium nature.

Golden Fried Rice, Crispy Premium Spiky Sea Cucumber, Preserved Leek Sauce 4/5

As with all traditional Chinese banquets, the meal concludes with a comforting carbohydrate dish. The Golden Fried Rice is satisfying and well-executed, complemented by crispy premium spiky sea cucumber in preserved leek sauce. The sea cucumber offers a delightful firm, and bouncy texture, adding interest to this hearty finale.

Mandarin Kumquat Sorbet, Red Osmanthus Honey, Golden Bird's Nest 4.2/5

Wrapping up the meal is a light, refreshing dessert of Mandarin Kumquat Sorbet, paired with Red Osmanthus Honey and Golden Bird's Nest. Clean, aromatic and gently sweet, it provides a refreshing close to a rich and indulgent Lunar New Year feast.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Man Fu Yuan
Fraser House, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant @ Carlton Hotel Singapore - Welcomes the Year of the Fire Horse with Auspicious Lunar New Year Feasts

As the Year of the Fire Horse gallops in with renewed energy and hope, Carlton Hotel Singapore ushers in the festive season with a thoughtfully curated Lunar New Year dining experience at Wah Lok. From indulgent dine-in set menus for multi-generational reunions to beautifully crafted takeaway centrepieces for home celebrations, every detail reflects care, symbolism and a legacy of culinary refinement.

Available from 9 February to 3 March 2026, Wah Lok presents eight auspicious set menus starting from $88 per person, each dish designed to symbolise abundance, health and happiness – perfect for meaningful festive gatherings.

Sea Cucumber White Bait Yu Sheng 4/5

A festive meal begins, as tradition dictates, with a joyous Lo Hei. The Sea Cucumber White Bait Yu Sheng ($108/$148) offers a refined twist on the classic, combining auspicious ingredients with layered textures for a vibrant toss that symbolises rising fortune and hopeful beginnings. Making its debut as one of this year’s takeaway items, this elegant Yu Sheng is well-balanced and celebratory, setting the tone for the feast ahead.

Traditional-boiled Chicken Fish Maw Soup 3/5

The Traditional-boiled Chicken Fish Maw Soup was nourishing and comforting, with a clean, homely broth that warmed the palate. However, for a Chinese New Year menu, the soup could have been more luxurious, with deeper flavours or more premium ingredients to better reflect the festive occasion.

Pan-fried Scallop, Minced Shrimp, Crab Meat, Crab Roe 4/5

A luxurious seafood medley, the Pan-fried Scallop with Minced Shrimp, Crab Meat and Crab Roe delivered on visual appeal and indulgence. The scallop was plump and juicy, nicely complemented by the rich crab meat and crab roe sauce. While the dish was celebratory in spirit, I only wished the umami of the crab roe could come through more prominently to elevate the overall depth of flavour.

Abalone Eight Treasure Duck 4/5

Making its takeaway debut this season, the Abalone Eight Treasure Duck ($208) is a true showstopper and luxurious centrepiece. The tender duck is slow-braised with an impressive array of ingredients – abalone, sea cucumber, conpoy, pork, chestnut, mushroom and lotus seed. Rich in both flavour and symbolism, the dish embodies unity, prosperity and heartfelt blessings, making it perfect for meaningful reunion meals and festive gifting.

Pre-orders for Lunar New Year takeaways run from 1 January to 10 February 2026. Collection and delivery are available from 19 January to 16 February 2026, 11am to 7pm. For order and delivery enquiries, please visit https://celebrations.carltonhotel.sg/, contact the festive desk at +65 6349 1292 or email restaurants@carltonhotel.sg.

Pan-fried Sea Perch 3.8/5

The Pan-fried Sea Perch impressed with its beautifully crisp skin resting atop fat, buttery flesh. Simple yet satisfying, the fish was well-executed and paired nicely with the accompanying soy sauce, which added a subtle lift without overpowering the natural sweetness of the fish.

Housemade Soya Beancurd 4.5/5

Not to be missed is the Housemade Soya Beancurd, a standout dessert to end the meal on a gentle note. Wobbling smooth and silky, it carried a distinct soya fragrance that was both comforting and elegant – a quiet reminder that sometimes simplicity leaves the most profound impression.

For table reservations and enquiries, please contact Wah Lok at +65 6311 8188/ 8189, email wah.lok@carltonhotel.sg or visit https://www.carltonhotel.sg/dining/wah-lok.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant
Carlton Hotel Singapore
76 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189558
Tel: +65 6311 8188
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm
Sun: 11am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut through Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. Walk to the traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Bras Basah Road. Turn left and walk down Bras Basah Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]