Crystal Jade Group Celebrates National Day with Elevated Singapore-Inspired Creations

In celebration of Singapore’s 61st National Day, Crystal Jade Group presents a thoughtfully curated National Day Collection that pays homage to the nation’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. Available from 10 July to 30 August 2026 across its portfolio of restaurants, the limited-time showcase reinterprets familiar local flavours through the lens of refined Chinese cuisine. Staying true to its philosophy of honouring tradition while elevating it with culinary craftsmanship and premium ingredients, the collection brings together a series of inventive dishes that evoke both nostalgia and sophistication.

Crystal Jade Palace: White Pepper Crab Meat in Golden Tart 4.5/5

We had the opportunity to sample selections across several of its concepts, each offering a unique take on beloved Singaporean flavours.

Starting at Crystal Jade Palace, the White Pepper Crab Meat in Golden Tart ($22 for 6 pcs) is an elegant bite-sized tribute to one of Singapore’s iconic seafood dishes. Sweet, succulent crab meat is delicately sautéed with ginger, spring onion and a generous hit of fragrant white pepper, before being nestled into crisp golden tartlet shells made from spring roll pastry. Each bite delivers a harmonious balance of peppery warmth and natural sweetness, making it dangerously moreish.

Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen: Pan-Fried Hainanese Chicken Rice Dumpling 4.5/5

At Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen, the Pan-Fried Hainanese Chicken Rice Dumpling ($6.80 for 3 pcs) offers a clever reinterpretation of Singapore’s unofficial national dish. Crisp on the outside and soft within, the rice flour dumplings encase a fragrant filling of glutinous rice and tender chicken, infused with ginger, garlic and pandan. Served with a house-made chicken rice chilli, the dish captures the essence of the original while presenting it in a refreshing new format.

Crystal Jade Pavilion: Chargrilled Scallop & Rojak Tartlet 4/5

Another highlight from Crystal Jade Pavilion is the Chargrilled Scallop & Rojak Tartlet ($18.80 for 8 pcs). The crisp ‘pie tee’ shell holds a vibrant rojak-inspired medley of jicama, pineapple and cucumber, lightly coated in rojak sauce. Crowned with a smoky chargrilled scallop, the dish delivers a lively interplay of sweet, tangy and savoury flavours with contrasting textures.

Crystal Jade Golden Palace: Sesame Otah Toast 4/5

Over at Crystal Jade Golden Palace, the Sesame Otah Toast ($14.80 for 4 pcs) gives a nostalgic favourite a refined twist. Inspired by classic prawn toast, it features a generous layer of house-made otah prawn paste, coated with sesame seeds and deep-fried to a golden crisp. The result is a fragrant, crunchy bite packed with spice and umami.

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao: Wok-Fried Prawns in XO Sauce 4/5

Seafood lovers will enjoy the Wok-Fried Prawns with Jackfruit & Pineapple in XO Sauce ($23.80/Regular) from Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao. The prawns are plump and bouncy, coated in a robust XO sauce that delivers a savoury, mildly spicy punch. The addition of jackfruit and pineapple introduces a natural sweetness that brightens the dish and adds a unique tropical dimension.

Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen: Sizzling Pig Blood Curd & Tofu 4.2/5

For something more adventurous, the Sizzling Pig Blood Curd & Tofu with Salted Fish & Minced Meat ($16.80/Regular) at Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen is a comforting claypot dish that showcases an often underappreciated ingredient. Silky pig blood curd and tofu are braised with minced pork and salted fish in a deeply aromatic base of ginger, garlic and chillies. Rich, savoury and intensely satisfying, it is a dish that rewards the more curious diner.

Crystal Jade Pavilion: Australian Wagyu Beef Brisket in Pineapple Nanyang Curry 4.2/5

A hearty centrepiece comes in the form of the Australian Wagyu Beef Brisket in Pineapple Nanyang Curry ($42/Regular) at Crystal Jade Pavilion. The tender wagyu brisket is slow-braised in a fragrant curry enriched with pineapple, okra, onions and kaffir lime leaf. The pineapple lends a gentle sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the beef, resulting in a well-balanced curry that is both indulgent and distinctly local.

Crystal Jade Palace: Braised Rice Vermicelli with Seafood in Satay Sauce 4/5

Carbohydrate lovers should not miss the Braised Rice Vermicelli with Seafood in Satay Sauce ($36/Regular) at Crystal Jade Palace. The thick vermicelli is braised with prawns and squid in a robust ‘sha cha’ sauce, delivering deep umami flavours with a pronounced wok hei. It is a comforting dish that draws clear inspiration from Singapore’s hawker fare.

Crystal Jade Golden Palace: Chilled Durian Coconut Ice Jelly 4.2/5

Ending on a sweet note, the Chilled Durian Coconut Ice Jelly ($6.80/pax) at Crystal Jade Golden Palace is a refreshing dessert that celebrates tropical flavours. The silky coconut jelly is paired with a generous portion of durian flesh and strands of chendol, offering a delightful balance between creamy richness and light sweetness.

Crystal Jade Pavilion: Lychee Pastry 3.5/5

The Lychee Pastry ($12 for 3 pcs) from Crystal Jade Pavilion presents a delicate finish, featuring a crisp pastry shell filled with lychee and Chinese yam. While light and refreshing, the yam filling may not appeal to those who prefer more traditional fillings.

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao: Kaya Mochi 4.2/5

Lastly, the Kaya Mochi ($5.80 for 3 pcs) at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao is an addictive treat. The soft, stretchy mochi encases a fragrant kaya filling, delivering a harmonious combination of textures and flavours that makes it hard to stop at just one.

Overall, Crystal Jade’s National Day Collection succeeds in reimagining Singapore’s beloved flavours with creativity and finesse. Each dish reflects a thoughtful balance between nostalgia and innovation, offering diners a fresh perspective on familiar tastes while preserving their cultural essence. Available for a limited time only, this collection is a fitting tribute to Singapore’s vibrant culinary heritage and well worth exploring across the group’s various dining concepts.

PROMOTIONS
From 10 July to 30 August 2026, Jadeite Members and OCBC Cardmembers can enjoy 15% off with a minimum order of two National Day Special dishes at participating Crystal Jade restaurants. *Terms and conditions apply.

Note: This is an invited tasting.

Bibim Deli @ JEM - DIY Bibimbap Gets an Upgrade at Bibim Deli JEM with Celebrity Chef Collaborations

Following the success of its debut at Suntec City, Bibim Deli expands west with its second outlet at JEM, bringing along an exciting collaboration with chefs from Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars. Helmed by Season 1’s Chef Min Yohan, the concept now welcomes Season 2’s Chef Woo Jung-wook — affectionately known as “Seoul Mum” — to introduce a lineup of exclusive dishes alongside a brand-new Tteokbokki station available only at this Jurong East outlet.

Staying true to its roots, Bibim Deli continues to champion its self-DIY bibimbap experience, set within a clean, minimalist space inspired by traditional hanok aesthetics. The concept is straightforward yet engaging. Diners begin by selecting a bowl and portioning their desired amount of rice before moving along a vibrant spread of banchan, proteins, and vegetables. With over 1,000 rotational recipes curated by Chef Min Yohan, the variety is both impressive and ever-evolving, ensuring that no two visits are quite the same. Prices start from an accessible $3.88 per 100g, making it easy to customise a bowl to your appetite — though restraint is key, as the final bill can quickly climb depending on your selections.

One of the main highlights at JEM is the outlet-exclusive Tteokbokki station. Here, diners can enjoy chewy rice cakes bathed in a rich, deeply flavoured sauce that strikes a comforting balance between sweet and spicy. The sauce clings beautifully to each piece, delivering a satisfying, hearty bite that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. It’s a thoughtful addition that elevates the overall spread, offering a warm, cooked option among the cold banchan.

Complementing this are the limited-time dishes by Chef Woo Jung-wook, whose cooking leans into soulful, home-style Korean flavours. Her creations embody the kind of comforting dishes one might expect from a Korean home kitchen — hearty, well-seasoned, and deeply satisfying. Meanwhile, Chef Min Yohan’s new additions continue to showcase his flair for variety and balance, introducing more contemporary touches to the traditional spread.

The experience is rounded off with a complimentary bowl of miso soup, adding a light, savoury element to complete the meal. For those who prefer to dine at home, the takeaway option lets you pack your customised selection with ease, bringing a taste of Korean comfort to your table.

To celebrate the opening, Bibim Deli also brings back its popular “Guess the Right Weight” challenge at JEM. Diners who can accurately guess the weight of their bowl stand a chance to enjoy their meal for free — a fun, interactive touch that enhances the overall experience.

Overall, Bibim Deli at JEM delivers on both variety and flavour, offering a highly customisable dining experience that caters to different preferences and appetites. The collaboration with Culinary Class Wars chefs adds an extra layer of excitement, while the new Tteokbokki station provides a satisfying highlight. While the pay-by-weight concept offers flexibility, it also requires a mindful approach, as an indulgent bowl can easily exceed $20. Nonetheless, for those seeking a fuss-free yet flavourful Korean meal with plenty of choice, Bibim Deli remains a compelling option.

Note: This is an invited tasting.



Bibim Deli
JEM
50 Jurong Gateway Road
#03-05/06
Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 8321 1169
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Jurong East MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Hikiniku To Come @ Vivocity - Tokyo’s Cult Hamburg Steak Experience Lands at Singapore

Acclaimed Japanese dining concept Hikiniku To Come officially opened its first Singapore outpost at VivoCity on 29 May 2026, bringing with it a cult-followed “hamburg steak-on-rice” experience from Tokyo’s Kichijoji district. Known for its unwavering focus on simplicity, precision and freshness, the brand has elevated what is typically a humble comfort dish into a refined, almost ritualistic dining journey.

At the heart of Hikiniku To Come’s philosophy is an obsessive attention to detail. The beef is ground fresh in-house daily under strict temperature control in a dedicated room, ensuring optimal freshness and food safety. Each patty is then hand-shaped using a distinctive “popping” technique that minimises heat transfer from the hands, preserving the meat’s integrity. Made exclusively from 100% Japanese beef selected for its ideal balance of richness and flavour, the patties are grilled over binchotan charcoal and served within seconds of cooking — a meticulous process that guarantees consistency in both texture and taste.

The menu is intentionally minimalistic, offering a single Signature Set Meal ($27.90++) centred on three hamburg steaks, each served one at a time. This staggered progression transforms the meal into a thoughtfully paced sensory experience, where each patty is enjoyed at its peak and approached differently to highlight its nuanced flavour profile.

Potato Salad with Minced Meat 4.2/5

Raw Kimchi 3.5/5

We began with a couple of side dishes — Potato Salad with Minced Meat ($7.90) and Raw Kimchi ($7.90) — to complement the meal. The Potato Salad with Minced Meat is comforting and hearty, enriched with savoury minced meat that adds depth to the creamy potato base. It strikes a satisfying balance between indulgence and texture, making it more substantial than your typical Japanese potato salad. The Raw Kimchi, on the other hand, offers a lighter, refreshing contrast. Its clean, mildly tangy profile provides a palate cleanser between bites of the rich hamburg steaks, though it leans towards the subtle side in terms of punch.

Hamburg Steak 4/5

The star of the show is undoubtedly the Hamburg Steak. Each patty arrives sizzling hot, placed atop a bowl of fluffy Japanese rice. Diners are encouraged to savour the first patty as is, allowing the beef’s natural flavours to shine. The meat is incredibly moist and juicy, with a pronounced smokiness from the binchotan charcoal. As it rests on the rice, the juices seep into the grains below, subtly enhancing each bite with savoury depth.

For the second patty, diners are guided to pair it with grated radish and a drizzle of the housemade ponzu. This combination introduces a bright, citrusy lift that cuts through the richness of the beef, offering a refreshing contrast that reawakens the palate.

The third and final patty invites a more indulgent finish. Diners can dip the meat into a glossy beaten egg yolk or mix the yolk with soy sauce into the rice, transforming it into a luxurious tamago kake gohan. The creamy richness of the egg, combined with the umami-laden meat juices, creates a deeply satisfying and comforting finale.

Hikiniku To Come is more than just a meal; it is a carefully orchestrated experience that celebrates the beauty of restraint and precision. By focusing on a single dish and perfecting every element, the brand delivers a dining journey that is both comforting and quietly sophisticated — one that invites diners to slow down and appreciate the subtle evolution of flavours from start to finish. As Singapore continues to embrace specialised dining concepts, Hikiniku To Come stands out for its disciplined approach and thoughtful execution. It proves that even the simplest dishes, when treated with care and intention, can be transformed into something truly memorable.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hikiniku To Come
Vivocity
1 Harbourfront Walk
#01-102/103
Singapore 098585
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Beng Hiang Restaurant @ Shangri-La Singapore - Timeless Flavours, New Setting, Beng Hiang’s Hokkien Legacy Continues

Reopened with a refreshed concept yet rooted in tradition, Beng Hiang Restaurant marks a significant new chapter with its culinary residency at Shangri-La Singapore’s Garden Terrace. Officially welcoming diners back on 26 June 2026, the 48-year-old heritage Hokkien brand has transitioned from its former Jurong East flagship into an elegant 80-seat indoor-outdoor setting. While the new space brings a more refined dining environment, the soul of Beng Hiang remains intact — preserving its time-honoured recipes while introducing a thoughtful selection of elevated, region-inspired dishes.

Aged Yongchun Vinegar Jellyfish Terrine 4/5

One of the residency’s exclusive cold appetisers, the Aged Yongchun Vinegar Jellyfish Terrine ($15) sets the tone with its refined presentation. Unlike the usual tossed jellyfish salad, this version is carefully pressed into a terrine, giving it a polished, almost pâté-like form. The use of Yongchun aged vinegar — a prized Monascus vinegar from Fujian — lends a deep, complex profile with mellow sweetness and umami undertones. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast between the jellyfish’s signature crunch and the smooth, savoury jelly, making it both refreshing and sophisticated.

5-Spiced Sausages and Prawn Balls 4.2/5

The 5-Spiced Sausages and Prawn Balls ($18) platter stays true to Beng Hiang’s roots, showcasing a recipe passed down for over four decades. The pork roll is tightly wrapped in beancurd skin and deep-fried to a golden crisp, revealing a fragrant, well-seasoned filling infused with five-spice. Complementing it are the prawn balls, which offer a springy, bouncy bite packed with natural sweetness. Together, they present a comforting introduction to classic Hokkien flavours.

Superior Crab Meat and Fish Maw Broth 4.2/5

Rich, velvety, and deeply comforting, the Superior Crab Meat and Fish Maw Broth ($20 per pax) is a quintessential Hokkien-style soup done right. Generous portions of premium fish maw and sweet shredded crab meat fill the bowl, creating a luxurious texture with every spoonful. The broth is thick yet well-balanced, delivering warmth and depth without feeling overly heavy.

Spinach with Dried Sole Fish 4.2/5

A seemingly simple dish, the Spinach with Dried Sole Fish ($16) exemplifies how restraint and technique can elevate humble ingredients. The tender greens are lightly stir-fried and accented with crispy bits of dried sole fish (bian yu), adding a punch of umami and a subtle smokiness. It’s a clean, well-executed dish that balances the richer items on the menu.

Slow-braised Hokkien Duck with Aged Ginger 4.5/5

One of the residency’s highlights, the Slow-braised Hokkien Duck with Aged Ginger ($40) showcases a more refined take on traditional flavours. The duck is braised until fork-tender, soaking up a deeply savoury sauce infused with the warming intensity of aged ginger. The result is a dish that feels both comforting and elevated, with layers of flavour that linger pleasantly on the palate.

Fujian-style Steamed Mud Crab with Glutinous Rice 4.5/5

For a celebratory centrepiece, the Fujian-style Steamed Mud Crab with Glutinous Rice ($138) is a standout. Available via pre-order, this communal dish features a large mud crab brimming with rich roe, steamed atop a bed of glutinous rice. As the crab cooks, its juices seep into the rice below, transforming each grain into a flavour-packed bite of briny sweetness and umami. Ideal for sharing, it is both indulgent and deeply satisfying.

Beng Hiang’s Hokkien Noodle 5/5

A visit would not be complete without the restaurant’s Signature Hokkien Noodles ($22). A staple for nearly five decades, the dish features thick yellow noodles braised in a dark, flavourful gravy made from pork bone and prawn stock. Topped with seafood and crispy pork lard, it delivers richness and depth in every mouthful.

Crispy Oyster Omelette 4.2/5

Breaking away from the usual gooey rendition, Beng Hiang’s Crispy Oyster Omelette ($25) focuses on texture. The egg batter is pan-fried into a thin, golden sheet with a satisfying crunch, while the plump oysters remain juicy and briny. It’s a refreshing take that balances crispness with natural seafood sweetness. The accompanying housemade silver fish chilli sauce adds a zesty, savoury kick that enhances the overall experience.

Yam Paste with Ginkgo Nuts 4.5/5

Ending on a nostalgic note, the Yam Paste with Ginkgo Nuts ($10 per pax) remains one of Beng Hiang’s most beloved desserts. Smooth, thick, and velvety without being overly rich, it strikes a delicate balance between earthy sweetness and the aromatic hint of shallot oil. The addition of soft ginkgo nuts introduces a subtle bitterness that rounds off the dessert beautifully.

Beng Hiang’s return is more than just a relocation — it is a thoughtful evolution of a heritage brand. At Shangri-La Singapore’s Garden Terrace, the restaurant successfully bridges tradition and modernity, offering long-time fans the comfort of familiar favourites while inviting new diners to experience Hokkien cuisine through a more refined lens. With its carefully curated menu and elevated setting, Beng Hiang proves that heritage dining can remain relevant while staying true to its roots.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Beng Hiang
Shangri-La Singapore
Garden Terrace (Level 1)
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 6221 6695/ 6684
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 6pm - 9:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards the Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 23 minutes.[Map]

Mimmo Bakery @ Asia Square Tower 1 - One of the Best Egg Tarts in Singapore?

Mimmo Singapore, a Hong Kong-born pop-up concept, has finally found a permanent home at Asia Square, Singapore. Helmed by Le Cordon Bleu–trained Chef Domenico Giammarella, the café-bakery reflects his culinary journey across Montreal, Toronto and beyond, where precision, technique and creativity converge. At Mimmo, pastry-making is approached with both scientific discipline and artistic finesse, resulting in a menu that is thoughtful, refined, and deeply personal.

Egg Tart 5/5

Chef Domenico shared that he has always been on a quest for the perfect egg tart — and when he couldn’t find one that met his expectations, he decided to create his own. The result is nothing short of exceptional. Priced at $4, the Egg Tart features an impeccably crisp and flaky shell that shatters lightly upon bite, revealing a silky, smooth egg custard within. The custard strikes a delicate balance between sweetness and richness without being cloying. It is easily one of the best versions around, and a must-order at Mimmo.

Tigres 3.8/5

The Tigres ($2) is a petite French almond tea cake inspired by the classic financier. Made with browned butter and egg whites, the base is rich yet tender, studded with finely chopped dark chocolate that melts into streaks resembling tiger stripes. At its core lies a luscious caramel filling that adds a luxurious touch. While texturally pleasing, the overall sweetness leans slightly heavy for my palate.

Apple Croissant 4.2/5

The Apple Croissant ($5) is as visually stunning as it is satisfying. Thinly sliced apples are arranged atop the croissant to resemble delicate rosé petals, finished with a glossy glaze. Beneath its elegant exterior lies a flaky, buttery laminated pastry filled with a smooth vanilla and apple custard. The contrast between the slight crunch of the apples and the soft, airy layers creates a delightful multi-textural experience.

Pistachio Bolo Bao 4.2/5

Mimmo’s Pistachio Bolo Bao ($5) offers a modern European interpretation of the beloved Hong Kong classic. Instead of the usual dense bun, this version is lighter and fluffier, paired with a refined cookie crust that is less crumbly yet still delivers a gentle crunch. Inside, a generous filling of mascarpone pistachio cream flows luxuriously, balancing sweetness with a nutty depth that keeps it from becoming overwhelming.

Tiramisu 4.2/5

Chef Domenico’s take on Tiramisu ($12) stays true to tradition while incorporating a thoughtful twist. Served by the scoop from a large tray, it features layers of mascarpone cream and espresso-soaked savoiardi biscuits. The addition of finely chopped hazelnuts introduces a subtle crunch, elevating the dessert with a nutty dimension that complements the rich, velvety cream beautifully.

Strozzapreti alla Gigi 4.5/5

For something savoury, the Strozzapreti alla Gigi offers a hearty and comforting option. The handmade strozzapreti pasta, with its signature twisted shape, is cooked to a firm al dente bite, providing a satisfying chew. It is coated in a rich mushroom and pancetta rosé sauce — a creamy tomato base layered with smoky, savoury notes. The robust sauce clings well to the pasta, making each bite indulgent yet balanced.

Italian Club Sandwich 4/5

The Italian Club Sandwich ($18) is a generously portioned offering built with precision. Toasted slices of bread provide a crisp foundation for layers of Parma ham and mortadella, melted provolone cheese, basil pesto, and a tangy citrus aioli. Fresh tomatoes and a generous handful of alfalfa sprouts add brightness and texture, resulting in a well-rounded sandwich that is both hearty and satisfying.

Mimmo Singapore impresses with its thoughtful execution and clear identity — a space where classic techniques meet modern refinement. The pastries, particularly the Egg Tart, are standout highlights that showcase Chef Domenico’s pursuit of perfection, while the savoury offerings provide a well-balanced complement. Whether you are stopping by for a quick pastry or a more substantial meal, Mimmo delivers a polished and satisfying experience that is well worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mimmo Bakery
Asia Square Tower 1
8 Marina View
#01-05
Singapore 018960
Tel: +65 80874010
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Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am - 7pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 6pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 4. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to Marina View Road. Turn left onto Marina View Road. Walk down Marina View Road and walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]