Uncle Fong Hotpot Restaurant (方叔叔重庆老火锅) @ Suntec City - Launches New Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Broth and Freshly Chopped Kampung Chicken Tower

Founded by Fong Chi Chung, the visionary behind the well-loved PUTIEN chain, Uncle Fong Hotpot Restaurant (方叔叔重庆老火锅) is his dedicated tribute to the bold and fiery flavours of authentic Chongqing hotpot. Uncle Fong’s deep-rooted passion first materialised in Hong Kong before the brand made its way to Singapore in 2022 with outlets in Suntec City and Great World City.

The restaurant places great emphasis on using premium ingredients free from artificial additives, especially evident in their signature Chongqing Spicy Soup. This fiery broth is brewed using a traditional Chongqing herbal tea, "Lao Ying Tea". We learned that the tea's cooling properties work well to balance the contrasting spice blend and enhance the complexity of the base.

Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Broth with Eight Natural Ingredients 4.5/5

Diners seeking a lighter, cleaner hotpot experience can try the newly improved Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Broth (Small $22.80, Large $29.80), which has made a comeback on the menu. Brewed daily without preservatives, the broth features a nourishing blend of apple, white pear, corn, tomato, sugarcane, red dates, water chestnut, and coriander. It begins refreshingly light but gradually develops a natural sweetness and rounded depth as ingredients are added throughout the meal.

Freshly Chopped Kampung Chicken Tower 4.2/5

The new launch of the nutritious broth is also accompanied by the new Freshly Chopped Kampung Chicken Tower ($29.80), which is highly recommended to order together. Presented across five tiers, it showcases fresh boneless kampung chicken and innards. The top tier features offcuts like heart, gizzard, liver, neck, wings, and drumstick bones, followed by layers of thin-sliced breast and thigh meat. The addition of these cuts not only enhances the broth's flavour but also delivers firm yet tender textures in each bite.

Chongqing Spicy Soup 4.8/5

For those craving heat, the Chongqing Spicy Soup (Small $22.80, Large $29.80) is an unmissable signature. Made with a slow-fried potent mix of Shizhuhong chilli, Hanyuan pepper, high-purity beef tallow, Pixian bean paste, and Yunnan yellow ginger, it’s a bold, aromatic broth that spice lovers will relish. Diners who don’t take beef can inform the restaurant beforehand to omit the beef tallow.

Pork Shoulder

The menu offers a diverse spread of hotpot ingredients, including meats like Pork Shoulder ($27.60) and US Prime Beef Short Ribs ($45.60), seafood such as Truffle Cuttlefish Paste, Abalone, and Tiger Prawns, and vegetables like Mountain Yam, Bamboo Shoots, and Pumpkin. For something more unique, options like Putien Soft Bean Curd, Ox Liver, and Sliced Pork Heart add variety.

Some standout items from our visit included the juicy and texturally delightful Handmade Ebiko Prawn Paste ($17.60 Full), Crunchy QQ Mushroom ($13.60 Full), and the Live Razor Clams ($24 Full), which were plump and fresh.

Sea Cucumber Intestine, Red Sea Cucumber Intestine

We also tried the Sea Cucumber Intestine and Red Sea Cucumber Intestine (both $21.80 for Half), which were new to us but pleasantly surprising. They were crunchy with a mild, clam-like flavour, especially enjoyable when dipped in the spicy broth.

Oolong Iced Tea, Iced Bayberry Juice

To wash it all down, we had the Oolong Iced Tea ($9.80) and Iced Bayberry Juice ($9.80), which were pricey but came in bigger shareable portions.

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.


Uncle Fong Hotpot Restaurant
方叔叔重庆老火锅
Suntec City
3 Temasek Boulevard
#02-391
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 6513 9565
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

1-Alfaro by Monti @ Labrador Tower - The Newest Rooftop Lifestyle Destination with Stunning Views

1-Group has unveiled yet another stunning dining destination with the launch of 1-Alfaro by MONTI, perched on the 34th floor of Labrador Tower. Opened on 2 June 2025, this chic lifestyle enclave brings together two complementary concepts: the refined Italian restaurant La Torre and the high-energy rooftop bar La Luna. With breathtaking panoramic views of the southern coastline and city skyline, 1-Alfaro captures the spirit of Italian hospitality and elegance, inspired by the lighthouses of Emilia-Romagna.

Our meal began with complimentary Toasted Bread served with Friggione, a traditional slow-cooked onion and tomato dish, reduced until deeply caramelised and jammy. It set a comforting and flavourful tone for the meal.

Stecco Petroniano 4.2/5

A hit at the table is the Stecco Petroniano ($14 for 2pc). These deep-fried rolls of mortadella and provolone, wrapped in béchamel and double-crumbed, delivered on flavour and texture. The caramelised shallot compote dip added a gentle sweetness that elevated every bite.

La Torre's Fried Lasagna 4.2/5

A playful and indulgent twist on the classic lasagna is the La Torre's Fried Lasagna ($18 for 5pc). These crispy golden parcels layered with wagyu ragu and cheese are coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. A unique bar snack or starter that delights with every crunch.

Stracciatella Cheese 4/5

Creamy Stracciatella Cheese ($18) is paired with Parma ham, rosemary honey, and marinated cherry tomatoes, then topped with strips of crispy polenta for textural contrast. It is a well-balanced dish of savoury, sweet, and creamy elements.

Tortellini 4.2/5

Though petite, these Tortellini ($16) are packed with a flavourful filling of pork, veal, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Floating in a robust chicken consommé, they showcase the finesse of traditional Emilia-Romagna pasta craftsmanship.

Tagliatelle 4.5/5

An absolute standout is the Tagliatelle ($14 Half/ $28 Full). The beef bolognese, slow-cooked in milk and aromatics, is rich and comforting. Topped with béchamel espuma, Grana Padano, and basil oil, every bite is harmoniously creamy, meaty, and herbaceous.

Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta 4.2/5

Don’t be fooled by the minimalist presentation. Tossed with tomatoes and squacquerone cheese and finished with shallots, the Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is deceptively flavourful with a delightfully chewy bite.

La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna 4.5/5

The La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is a layered beauty of bolognese, béchamel, and mozzarella, baked till bubbling and then pan-fried for a crisp crust. Served with tomato sauce and parmesan cream, this is lasagna with flair and finesse.

"Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta 4/5

The "Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta ($14 Half/ $28 Full) is a denser, thicker egg pasta tossed with Manila clams, lemon-parsley butter, and finished with bottarga and breadcrumbs. A punchy, umami-forward dish that might surprise with its chew but rewards with flavour.

Queensland Baby Barramundi (300-500gram) 4.2/5

Grilled skin-side down over charcoal, the Queensland Baby Barramundi ($38) from Rockypoint Farm offers a clean, sweet, and buttery flavour with firm flakes. Finished with grilled lemon and parsley, it’s simplicity done right.

USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' 4/5

The USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' ($148) is charcoal-grilled to perfection. This ribeye is wonderfully marbled and full of natural flavour. The accompaniments – roasted garlic, salsa verde, and sea salt flakes – enhance without overpowering.

Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes 3.5/5

Leafy Green from our Garden 3/5

Wood-Fried US Asparagus 3/5

To complement the mains, we had a trio of sides: Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes ($16), Leafy Greens from Our Garden ($12), and Wood-Fired US Asparagus ($16). Each was designed to round out the meal, though some stood out more than others.

La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile 4/5

The La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile ($17) is an intriguing dessert combining the creaminess of burrata with the subtle savoury edge of extra virgin olive oil. The rosemary tuile, Parmigiano shavings, and fig vincotto tie it all together with an elegant complexity.

Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' 3.8/5

The Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' ($15) is a classic Italian dessert that features Savoiardi (ladyfinger) biscuits soaked in Herring Cherry Liqueur, layered with vanilla-lemon pastry cream, chocolate mousse, and raspberry gel. Finished with a topping of fresh raspberries and an extra drizzle of raspberry gel, the trifle offers a delightful balance of richness, fruitiness, and a boozy kick.

Lambrusco Poached Pear 4/5

The Lambrusco Poached Pear ($17) is poached in Lambrusco wine and warm spices. This dessert is comforting and aromatic. The combination of pecan crumbs, pistachio gelato, and aged balsamic adds sophistication and balance.

1-Alfaro by MONTI is a stunning addition to Singapore’s Italian dining scene, impressing with its refined execution of regional favourites, creative presentation, and sweeping skyline views. Whether you’re there for a date night, special celebration, or to indulge in soulful Italian fare, La Torre delivers on both quality and experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


1-Alfaro by Monti
Labrador Tower
1 Pasir Panjang Road
#34-00
Singapore 118479
Tel: +65 8093 5683
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Nearest MRT: Labrador Park (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 1am
Sun: 11am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Labrador Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic light junction. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Yue (乐) @ Aloft Novena Singapore - Free Flow MSW Durian Together with an Upgraded Buffet Menu

With durian season in full swing, Yuè at Aloft rolls out a free-flow Mao Shan Wang durian buffet as a treat for its loyal diners. Even better? It's available alongside their upgraded à la carte zi char buffet, which now features a slew of premium additions. Due to popular demand, the 1-for-1 promotion has been extended too!

Singapore-style Chilli Crab 3.8/5

Duck Confit, Kung Pao 4/5

Poached Prawn 4/5

We were invited to try the new line-up, and there's plenty to shout about. Three premium dishes are limited to one serving per table, but they're worth ordering. The Singapore-style Chilli Crab features fresh, meaty crabs coated in a thick, slightly sweet sauce. While a tad too sweet for our taste, the freshness of the crab more than makes up for it. The Duck Confit, done Kung Pao-style, is fork-tender and pleasantly spicy. It is a brilliant East-meets-West twist that works. The Poached Prawns stood out for their sheer freshness. It was plump, juicy and a definite must-order.

Soup

Singapore-style Chilli Sauce, Deep-Fried Mantou 3/5

Over at the self-serve station, diners can help themselves to two soups: the Braised Fish Maw Broth with Crab Meat and Conpoy, which was decent but relatively standard, and the Old Cucumber Pork Ribs Soup, which was the slow-boiled soup of the day, really impressed us with its rich, homely flavour. For those who love chilli crab sauce but prefer not to get messy, the sauce is available on its own, accompanied by deep-fried mantou, served free-flow. We wish the mantou were a little crispier.

Sweet and Sour Pork 4/5

Among the main dishes, one of our favourites was the Sweet and Sour Pork with Popping Candy, which is a fun and surprisingly tasty combination where the crackling candy adds a playful texture. Just remember to break it up a little before dipping. Another standout was the Deep-fried Chicken with Dried Chilli and Szechuan Peppercorn, which was exactly what we want from a spicy dish - crispy, fragrant and totally addictive.

Deep-fried Seabass Fillet 4.5/5

Seafood-wise, there's only one item on the current menu, but it's a good one. The Deep-fried Seabass Fillet is served with a sweet and spicy mango sauce and hits all the right notes, featuring thick, tender fillets with a nicely balanced glaze that's both appetising and well-executed.

Yue’s Signature “LIMPEH” Bee Hoon 3/5

Egg Fried Rice 4/5

Mee Tai Bak 3.8/5

As for staples, we tried three options. Yuè's Signature "LIMPEH" Bee Hoon is one of their proud creations, but it tasted a little too ordinary for us. On the other hand, the Egg Fried Rice with Tobiko and Scallop was excellent. It was fluffy, well-seasoned and made even better with the occasional pop from the tobiko. The Mee Tai Bak with XO Sauce, Chai Poh and Chicken was a dinner-exclusive item. Slightly sweet, savoury and smoky, it reminded us of a cross between black carrot cake and char kway teow. If that is your flavour profile, you would love this.

To end the meal, diners can look forward to a DIY Homemade Beancurd bar with assorted toppings, along with chilled juices, coffee, and tea. If you're dining in the evening, you'll also get access to the Chilled Mango Sago, another dinner-exclusive that’s light and refreshing.

And of course, the highlight for many is the free-flow Mao Shan Wang durian, which is available as a top-up at $30++ per person, served at the alfresco area from Fridays to Sundays only. If you're only here for the durian, a standalone durian buffet option is also available, with the same 1-for-1 promotion at $108++ for two diners.

Yuè’s à la carte zi char buffet is available daily for lunch from 12pm to 3pm, and for dinner from 6pm to 10pm (Monday to Thursday) or 6pm to 10:30pm (Friday to Sunday). The current 1-for-1 promotion is valid until 28 September 2025, so don’t miss your chance to feast.

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


Yue (乐)
Aloft Novena Singapore
Lobby Level
16 Ah Hood Road
Singapore 329982
Tel: +65 68086846
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Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus number 139 or 145. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]