Showing posts with label Mapo Tofu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mapo Tofu. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Jumboree @ Tai Seng - JUMBO Group’s Vibrant Food Hall Unites Signature Seafood and Hawker Favourites Under One Roof

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Tucked away in the industrial enclave of Tai Seng, JUMBOREE marks JUMBO Group’s first foray into a food hall concept, bringing together more than 10 of its well-loved brands under one expansive 17,997 sq ft space. Located at 26 Tai Seng Street, the off-the-beaten-track destination embraces Singapore’s communal dining spirit, complete with self-service alcohol taps (from $0.36 per 10ml) and a live band performing Mondays to Saturdays.

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Signature Black Bean Sauce Live Mud Crab on Shunde Chen Cun Flat Rice Roll 4.5/5

At the heart of the space is JUMBO 1987, a seafood dai pai dong (海鲜大牌档) that showcases both nostalgic classics and inventive creations inspired by JUMBO Seafood’s legacy.

A standout dish, the Signature Black Bean Sauce Live Mud Crab on Shunde Chen Cun Flat Rice Roll ($68) impresses with its robust, savoury black bean sauce that accentuates the natural sweetness of the mud crab. The unexpected addition of Shunde-style Chen Cun flat rice rolls lends a chewy, silky texture and soaks up the rich sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying pairing.

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1987 Signature Curry Fish Head with JUMBO You Tiao 4.2/5

The 1987 Signature Curry Fish Head with JUMBO You Tiao ($58) delivers on both scale and flavour. The meaty fish head is immersed in a creamy, aromatic curry brimming with brinjal, okra, long beans and cabbage. The accompanying jumbo-sized you tiao is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the luscious gravy.

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Crispy Fried Seafood Beancurd 3.8/5

A nostalgic throwback, the Crispy Fried Seafood Beancurd ($28 Large) features a crisp golden exterior that gives way to a silky-soft interior. Paired with a sweet dipping sauce, it offers a comforting balance of texture and flavour.

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1987 Signature Live Lobster Mapo Tofu 4/5

For something more indulgent, the 1987 Signature Live Lobster Mapo Tofu ($88) reimagines the Sichuan classic with chunks of succulent lobster. The dish carries a bold mala kick, while the velvety tofu and savoury sauce tie everything together in a rich, flavour-packed combination.

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Fragrant Maotai Sanbei Chicken 4/5

Another exclusive, the Fragrant Maotai Sanbei Chicken ($44 Large), arrives with a flourish, flambéed tableside with Maotai. The brief burst of flames releases an enticing aroma from ginger, garlic and basil, while the chicken is coated in a glossy, sweet-savoury glaze with a subtle smokiness.

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Tai Seng Satay 3.8/5

Beyond its seafood-centric offerings, the food hall brings together familiar hawker favourites and mini-restaurant concepts. From Tai Seng Satay, the Pork (from $6.80 for 6 sticks), Chicken (from $6.80 for 6 sticks), and Mutton Satay (from $7.80 for 6 sticks) are ideal for sharing alongside drinks, though the peanut sauce, enriched with grated pineapple, proves the highlight.

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Duo Fish Pao Fan 4/5

At Chao Ting Teochew Pao Fan, the Duo Fish Pao Fan ($13.50) comforts with its light yet flavourful broth and delicate grains, staying true to the Teochew style.

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Wonton Noodle Dry 4/5

Meanwhile, Kok Kee Wonton Noodle serves up its signature Wonton Noodle Dry ($5.50), featuring springy noodles tossed in a well-balanced, old-school sauce.

Other familiar names such as Tsui Wah Eatery and NG AH SIO Bak Kut Teh further round out the diverse lineup, making JUMBOREE a one-stop destination for varied cravings. Adding to the lively atmosphere, diners can enjoy live band performances from 8pm onwards, making it an appealing spot to unwind after work or gather with friends.

A fresh and ambitious concept by the JUMBO Group, JUMBOREE captures the essence of Singapore’s dining culture — communal, diverse and full of flavour. With its blend of signature seafood, hawker staples and convivial ambience, this new dining destination in Tai Seng offers a compelling reason to venture off the usual dining trail.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jumboree
26 Tai Seng Street
#01-02
Singapore 534057
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Website
Nearest MRT: Tai Seng (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 7am - 12midnight
Sun: 7am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tai Seng MRT station. Take Exit C. Exit the 18 Tai Seng Building. Facing the canal, turn left and walk to the destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Monday, April 6, 2026

Peh Gao Coffeeshop @ Serene Centre - Coffeeshop In The Day, Taproom In The Night

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Tucked within Serene Centre, Peh Gao presents a unique dual-concept space that seamlessly shifts from a nostalgic kopitiam by day to a lively craft beer destination by night. Operating from 8am to 3pm, the daytime menu pays homage to local breakfast staples alongside hearty mains, before transforming into Orh Gao in the evening, offering Asian-inspired bar bites paired with an eclectic craft beer selection.

The morning crowd can look forward to a concise menu before 10am, featuring traditional toast and open-top sandwiches. From 10am to 2pm, the offerings expand to include a range of noodle and rice dishes, complemented by satisfying sides.

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Traditional Kaya Butter Toast 5/5

Starting with the Traditional Kaya Butter Toast ($2.80), it’s easy to see why this has garnered a reputation as one of the best in town. The toast strikes an ideal balance — crisp on the outside yet thick enough to retain a soft, fluffy interior, offering a delightful textural contrast. Slathered with fragrant kaya rich in coconut and pandan notes, and layered with a generous slab of butter, each bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweetness and richness that lingers.

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Mapo Tofu Udon 4.2/5

Moving on to the Mapo Tofu Udon ($12), the dish brings together elements of different cuisines in a comforting fusion bowl. Featuring silky mapo tofu, minced pork, onsen egg, and fried beancurd skin, it evokes a sense of familiarity akin to bak chor mee or even a bolognese-style pasta, with udon replacing the usual noodles for a heartier bite.

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Nasi Lemak Beef Rendang 4.8/5

A standout on the menu is undoubtedly the Nasi Lemak Beef Rendang ($15). The coconut rice is aromatic and fluffy, forming the perfect base for the exceptionally tender beef cheek, which is braised until melt-in-the-mouth soft and deeply infused with rempah spices. Paired with classic accompaniments such as sambal, ikan bilis, peanuts and egg, this is a must-order dish that impresses on all fronts.

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Fried Spring Rolls 3/5

The Fried Spring Rolls ($5) offer a crisp exterior, deep-fried to a golden brown. However, the radish and carrot filling lacks depth of flavour, making it less memorable than the other dishes.

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Pho Ultimate 3.8/5

For something comforting, the Pho Ultimate ($19) features generous chunks of beef short rib alongside flat rice noodles, bean sprouts and fresh herbs in a spiced broth. The broth leans lighter in flavour, but the addition of condiments elevates the overall profile, resulting in a soothing bowl.

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Crunchy Chicken Cartilage 3.8/5

Come evening, the space transitions into Orh Gao, where the focus shifts to bar bites and craft brews. The Crunchy Chicken Cartilage ($12) makes for an ideal accompaniment to drinks, with its well-marinated, crispy bites delivering a satisfying crunch and chew, especially when paired with chilli sauce.

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Kra Pow Mee Tai Mak 4/5

Equally inventive is the Kra Pow Mee Tai Mak ($15), a creative fusion dish marrying Thai basil chicken with claypot mee tai mak. Each mouthful is packed with bold flavours — aromatic basil, a gentle heat, and the richness of the onsen egg tying everything together.

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Curry Mussels 4/5

The Curry Mussels ($21) round off the experience on a comforting note. The fresh mussels are bathed in a sambal butter curry that leans slightly sweet and creamy, accompanied by focaccia bread perfect for soaking up every bit of the sauce.

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Craft Beer

Of course, no visit to Orh Gao is complete without exploring its rotating selection of craft beers on tap. The diverse lineup ensures there’s something to suit every palate, making it an inviting spot to unwind.

With its thoughtful concept and well-executed menu spanning both traditional and modern flavours, Peh Gao successfully carves out its identity as both a dependable breakfast spot and a vibrant evening hangout.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Peh Gao / Orh Gao
Serene Centre
10 Jalan Serene
#01-06
Singapore 258748
Tel: +65 8749 2755
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Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens ( CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Peh Gao
Tue-Sun: 8am - 3pm
Orh Gao
Tue-Thu, Sun: 4pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 4pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Botanic Gardens MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Bukit Timah Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Monday, February 16, 2026

SO DO FUN (蜀都丰) @ The Centrepoint - Celebrate Year of the Horse with an Authentic Bold Sichuan Feast

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SO DO FUN (蜀都丰) is helmed by Master Chef Peng Zi Yu, recognised as the Sichuan cuisine mentor to international superstar and celebrity chef Nicholas Tse. It currently has three outlets in Singapore: Midtown House, Waterway Point, and The Centrepoint.

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This Chinese New Year, it invites diners to celebrate with an authentic, bold Sichuan feast featuring new specials alongside its signature dishes. Highlights include the SO DO FUN Pencai, Prosperity Abalone Yu Sheng and more. Festive set menus for dine-in and selected takeaway options are also available, specially designed for groups of 2 up to 10 pax.

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Additionally, diners can participate in their 100% sure-win Angbao Lucky Draw, with prizes including dish vouchers, cash rewards, and exclusive merchandise.

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Prosperity Abalone Yu Sheng 3/5

Toss to a prosperous new year with the Prosperity Abalone Yu Sheng, priced at $29.80 for Small and $56.80 for Large. Their sauce leans towards the sweeter side.

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Scallops Mapo Tofu 4.2/5

We’ve tried SO DO FUN’s Chengdu Mapo Tofu before, but enjoyed this new Scallops Mapo Tofu even more. It similarly uses firmer tofu and is served in a claypot, but with a subtle briny note from the scallops that lifts the overall flavour. We wish the scallops were slightly fresher and came in a bigger portion.

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Boiled Fresh Fish in Spicy Broth 4.5/5

Our favourite at SO DO FUN continues to be the Boiled Fresh Fish in Spicy Broth ($29.80 for Small, $49.80 for Large), which is authentically bold, spicy and deeply flavourful. Tender fish slices come in a generous portion, mixed with beancurd skin, cucumber, bean sprouts and kelp, all cooked in an aromatic broth. If you prefer something lighter, consider the Sauerkraut or Fiery broths instead.

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Chilled Spicy Chicken 3.8/5

The Chilled Spicy Chicken is one of the restaurant’s popular sides. It fared better than the last time we had it, with more tender chicken pieces, though we would still prefer it to be much less salty.

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House Special Fried Rice 4/5

Dig into the House Special Fried Rice while it’s hot, and you’ll catch the fragrant hint of lard. It was thoroughly well-fried and paired nicely with both the Scallops Mapo Tofu and the Boiled Fresh Fish in Spicy Broth.

Available from now till 3 March 2026, SO DO FUN’s Prosperity Set Menu ranges from $118 for 2 pax up to $528 for 10 pax. For a more lavish option, the Abundance Set Menu starts at $168 for 2 pax and goes up to $818 for 10 pax. For enquiries and reservations, contact the restaurant at 6298 7572.

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.


SO DO FUN (蜀都丰)
The Centrepoint
#B1-17
176 Orchard Road
Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 6298 7572
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 9:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Go to ground level. Exit the building. Cross the road and turn right on Orchard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Monday, January 19, 2026

Chen’s Kitchen @ Paragon Shopping Centre - Welcoming Lunar New Year With Festive Set Reunion Menus

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For the upcoming Lunar New Year, Chen's Kitchen at Paragon Shopping Centre has introduced festive set Reunion Menus featuring its well-loved signatures alongside new dishes that will be added to the regular menu after CNY 2026.

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Prosperity Yu Sheng 3/5

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Double-boiled Lotus Root and Pork Rib Soup 3/5

The Blossom Set ($328++ for 4 pax) begins with a classic Prosperity Yu Sheng, followed by a comforting Double-boiled Lotus Root and Pork Rib Soup. The soup was simple, homely, and soothing.

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Mapo Tofu Original 4.2/5

Three of Chen's Kitchen's signatures anchor this set. The Mapo Tofu Original did not disappoint, delivering umami-packed flavours with silky tofu that carried the sauce beautifully.

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Sweet and Sour Barramundi 3/5

The Sweet and Sour Barramundi was delectable overall, though the fried exterior on the leaner parts of the fish leaned slightly thicker than preferred, resulting in more crust than meat. The sauce also skewed a little too sweet for my palate.

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Mala Mayo Prawns 4.5/5

On the other hand, the Mala Mayo Prawns were succulent, elevated by a coating of mala mayonnaise on the exterior that delivered an indulgent, creamy mouthfeel.

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Chen's Black Sweet and Sour Pork 4.8/5

Our family favourite was undoubtedly Chen's Black Sweet and Sour Pork. Each morsel was firm yet tender and deeply savoury, with a rich, well-balanced flavour that leaned more towards umami rather than tanginess.

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Gongbao Chicken 4/5

The Gongbao Chicken was visually appealing, featuring tender, well-marinated chicken complemented by asparagus that added a refreshing crunch.

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Szechwan French Beans with Mushrooms 4.5/5

The Szechwan French Beans with Mushrooms were thoroughly moreish, with crunchy beans paired with savoury minced meat, making it easy to keep reaching for more.

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Double-Boiled Pear with Snow Fungus and Red Dates 3.8/5

To complement the flavoursome dishes, dessert is a refreshing chilled Double-Boiled Pear with Snow Fungus and Red Dates, offering a light and soothing finish to the meal.

4-Pax, 6-Pax and 8-Pax Reunion Menus are available for dine-in, takeaway and delivery

Promotions
Citi Cardmembers Exclusive — 20% Off CNY Set Menus (Valid from 9 Jan – 3 Mar 2026, excluding 16–18 Feb)
Early Bird Special — 15% Off for reservations by 31 Jan 2026 (10% Off 16–18 Feb)
Free Fortune Cat Blind Box with any set menu or Yusheng purchase
Angbao Giveaway (5 Jan – 3 Mar, while stocks last) with prizes including discounts on CNY sets, Yusheng offers, complimentary appetisers, or drinks

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.


Chen's Kitchen
Paragon Shopping Centre
200 Orchard Road
#B1-43
Singapore 238859
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Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line), Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

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]

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

SO DO FUN (蜀都丰) @ The Centrepoint - Authentic Sichuan Cuisine Restaurant Opens Third Outlet in Town

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SO DO FUN (蜀都丰) joined our local F&B scene in June 2024 and has since opened its newest and third outlet at The Centrepoint, nestled among the vibrant dining options in the basement. The restaurant is helmed by Master Chef Peng Zi Yu, who is recognised as the Sichuan cuisine mentor to international artiste and celebrity chef Nicholas Tse.

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SO DO FUN prides itself on using exceptionally fresh fish, with live fish delivered daily from Malaysia. Each fish is freshly filleted and cooked only upon order. Their other two outlets are located in Bugis and Punggol.

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Mashed Eggplant with Chilli 4/5

Our lunch began with the Mashed Eggplant with Chilli ($11.80), served chilled. The dish was distinctly garlicky and mild on the spice.

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Boiled Fresh Fish in Spicy Broth 4.5/5

The main highlight arrived next, the Boiled Fresh Fish in Spicy Broth ($49.80 for Large), which comfortably feeds 3 to 4 pax. A smaller 2-pax portion is also available at $29.80. We went with their signature Spicy Broth, though Sauerkraut and Fiery broths are available as alternatives. I recommend adding a bowl of Wuchang Rice ($1.50) to pair with it.

True to their commitment to freshness, the tender fish slices were paired with bean sprouts, kelp, beancurd skin, cucumber and konjac strips, all submerged in a robust, aromatic and numbing broth. While some may find this on the oilier and saltier side, we found it authentic and deeply flavourful.

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Grilled Prawns with Vermicelli and Minced Garlic 4.2/5

During our previous visit, the Grilled Prawns with Vermicelli and Minced Garlic ($18.80) were cooked tableside on a gas stove. Now fully prepared in the kitchen, the dish remains just as satisfying, with the vermicelli thoroughly soaked in its fragrant, garlicky housemade sauce.

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Stir-Fried Pork with Chilli Peppers 4.2/5

Next was the Stir-Fried Pork with Chilli Peppers ($17.80), featuring tender pork slices, charred chillies and crunchy white fungus. It delivered a gentle heat alongside a pleasant smokiness.

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Chengdu Mapo Tofu 4/5

The Chengdu Mapo Tofu ($11.80) uses a firmer tofu, coated in a spicy, savoury sauce with minced pork. The heat here packed a punch.

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Braised Fresh Tofu Skin with Eggs 4/5

Recommended by the staff, the Braised Fresh Tofu Skin with Eggs ($13.80) offered a comforting, non-spicy contrast to the rest of the meal. It was mild, hearty and well-balanced.

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Jasmine Lemon Tea 4.2/5

To end, the Jasmine Lemon Tea ($3.50) was refreshing, fragrant, and mildly sweetened, perfect after all the spice. It also came in a pretty big cup, which we appreciated.

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.


SO DO FUN (蜀都丰)
The Centrepoint
#B1-17
176 Orchard Road
Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 6298 7572
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 9:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Go to ground level. Exit the building. Cross the road and turn right on Orchard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]