Akashi Japanese Restaurant @ Paragon - Buy 1 Get 2 Temaki Deal

Akashi’s popular Twilight Hour promotion runs from Monday to Friday, from 2.30pm onwards, offering a Buy 1 Get 2 deal on all signature temaki (excluding Uni Temaki). Beyond the promotion, we also sampled several of the restaurant’s signature dishes to see whether they were worth a return visit.

Temaki 5/5

We sampled six freshly made Temaki varieties — Spicy Sake, California, Chef’s Special (featuring Tuna and Uni), Salmon & Tamago, Negitoro, and Beef Steak served with a raw egg dipping sauce. Prices start from an affordable $6 and go up to $48 for the premium Uni Temaki. What impressed us most was the generous amount of fillings packed into every handroll. Unlike many temaki, where the ingredients disappear halfway through, these remained generously filled right down to the final bite.

It was honestly one of the most satisfying temaki experiences we’ve had. That said, don’t expect three handrolls to leave you completely full. With a rice-to-filling ratio of roughly 30:70, the emphasis here is clearly on quality ingredients rather than carb-heavy portions.

Nasu Awaseyaki 4.8/5

Nasu Awaseyaki ($20) features Japanese eggplant topped with homemade miso. What stood out immediately was the texture. Instead of the soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency typically associated with eggplant, this version offered a pleasant bite and slight crunch. Encased in a light tempura-style coating, the eggplant remained juicy within, while the savoury miso topping added depth and umami. Interestingly, the combination somehow reminded us of fried bananas! It was unexpected, yet surprisingly enjoyable.

Wakadori 4.5/5

Wakadori ($18) is a pan-seared chicken dish glazed with teriyaki sauce. The chicken was executed beautifully, with crisp, golden skin giving way to tender and juicy meat. We approached this dish with modest expectations, as teriyaki sauces can often lean overly sweet. Thankfully, Akashi strikes a more balanced savoury-sweet profile. As we continued eating, the flavour became strangely familiar, reminiscent of marmite chicken but subtler and more refined. This is the kind of dish that practically begs for a bowl of steamed rice.

Kani Ramen 4.5/5

Kani Ramen ($18) is a stir-fried ramen dish topped with fresh crab meat. The flavour profile was lighter and more nuanced than expected. There was a gentle tanginess running through the dish, which initially led us to believe vinegar was involved. We later learned that the acidity actually came from Japanese sake, lending the noodles a subtle brightness without overpowering the crab’s sweetness. Portion-wise, it was just right, satisfying without feeling heavy or cloying, making it an easy dish to finish.

While the Buy 1 Get 2 Temaki promotion is undoubtedly the headline attraction, Akashi’s signature dishes proved equally capable of holding their own. The standout for us was undoubtedly the temaki, thanks to the freshness of the ingredients and the generous fillings packed into every roll.

If you’re looking for a casual Japanese dining spot that delivers quality ingredients, well-executed dishes and excellent value during off-peak hours, Akashi’s Twilight Hour promotion is certainly worth checking out.

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


Akashi Japanese Restaurant
Pargaon
290 Orchard Road
#B1-01/02
Singapore 238859
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line), Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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]

Man Fu Yuan @ Frasers House - Unveils Refined Cantonese Menu Rooted in Tradition and Transformation

Award-winning Cantonese restaurant Man Fu Yuan (满福苑) at Fraser House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore, unveils a thoughtfully refreshed à la carte menu under the direction of Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan (陈健倫). Rooted in his evolving culinary philosophy, the menu reflects a deep respect for the foundations of traditional Cantonese cuisine while embracing modern reinterpretations and regional Chinese influences. Rather than reinventing, Chef Aaron focuses on transformation — preserving the discipline, finesse and depth of Cantonese culinary heritage, while presenting dishes through a more contemporary and refined lens. We had the opportunity to explore several highlights from the new menu, each showcasing a balance of craftsmanship, technique, and innovation.

168-hour Cured Fresh Mantis Prawns 3.8/5

One of the most technically intricate dishes on the menu, the 168-Hour Cured Fresh Mantis Prawns ($118 per 250g) is a labour-intensive showcase of curing and fermentation. The mantis prawns are meticulously cured for seven days in a blend of Hua Diao wine, Rose Dew wine, and Shuang Zheng double-distilled rice wine, before being layered with aged first-drawn soy sauce and refined using white rice wine cleansing techniques. While the result is deeply aromatic and complex, the pronounced wine notes leaned slightly overpowering, overshadowing the natural sweetness and delicate brininess of the mantis prawns.

Stuffed Prawn Paste Chicken Wing 3.8/5

A luxurious reinterpretation of the beloved local Har Cheong Gai, the Stuffed Prawn Paste Chicken Wing elevates the familiar with refined technique and premium ingredients. The chicken wing is carefully deboned while keeping the skin intact, then stuffed with a rich paste of prawns, water chestnuts, abalone, and minced pork. The exterior is glazed in a savoury-sweet sauce reminiscent of Korean fried chicken, offering a crisp, flavourful bite. Inside, the filling delivers a bouncy, juicy texture, creating a delightful contrast between the crisp skin and succulent interior.

Shredded Silken Tofu, Spinach Soup with Premium Fish Maw 4.8/5

Inspired by the imperial dish Wensi Tofu (文思豆腐), the Shredded Silken Tofu, Spinach Soup with Premium Fish Maw ($48 per person) is a masterclass in knife skills and broth craftsmanship. The silken tofu is painstakingly hand-shredded into fine strands, suspended in a clear, superior broth alongside vibrant spinach and premium South African fish maw. Light yet deeply flavourful, the dish embodies elegance and technical precision, with each spoonful delivering a clean, comforting depth that lingers gently on the palate.

Steamed Yellow Croaker 4/5

Bringing in subtle Northern Chinese influences, the Steamed Yellow Croaker ($180 per 800g) is prepared using classic Cantonese steaming techniques. The delicate, naturally sweet fish is paired with minced Iberico pork, water chestnut, mushroom and aged orange peel. The addition of pork fat enriches the dish, resulting in a savoury, aromatic broth that pools beneath the fish. The interplay of textures — tender fish, crunchy water chestnut, and umami-laden pork — creates a well-rounded and satisfying dish.

Eight Treasures Golden “Hulu” Gourd Duck 4.8/5

A visually striking and symbolically meaningful dish, the Eight Treasures Golden “Hulu” Gourd Duck ($128) is meticulously deboned and shaped into a traditional gourd, representing prosperity and abundance. Instead of the usual glutinous rice stuffing, Chef Aaron opts for a lighter filling of premium ingredients, including ginkgo nuts, dried oysters, roasted pork belly, lotus seeds, wild mushrooms, and dried shrimp. The result is a beautifully balanced dish that is rich yet not overly heavy, with each component contributing layers of flavour and texture.

Braised Morel Mushroom Stuffed with Prawn Mousseline 4.2/5

Another standout creation is the Braised Morel Mushroom Stuffed with Prawn Mousseline ($48). Each morel mushroom is carefully stuffed with prawn mousseline, showcasing consistency and precision in execution. Braised in superior stock and paired with water chestnut and broccoli, the dish delivers a harmonious blend of earthy, sweet and umami notes, allowing the natural flavours of each ingredient to shine.

Slow-cooked Rock Lobster 4.5/5

The Slow-cooked Rock Lobster impresses with its perfectly tender, juicy texture — a testament to precise cooking technique. The highlight lies in the aromatic duo of garlic: fragrant fried garlic adds a nutty crunch, while steamed raw garlic brings a sharp sweetness and pungency. The addition of black truffle lends an earthy depth without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the lobster. At the same time, a touch of Man Fu Yuan’s superior soy sauce ties everything together into a glossy, umami-rich finish. Crisp scallions provide a fresh contrast, cutting through the richness elegantly.

Wok-seared A5 Wagyu Beef in Mangolia Sauce 4/5

A luxurious take on the classic beef rice bowl, the Wok-seared A5 Wagyu Beef in Magnolia Sauce with Steamed Wuchang Rice and Egg Yolk pairs wok-seared A5 Wagyu with Magnolia sauce, Wuchang rice and egg yolk. The beef is expertly seared to achieve a caramelised crust while remaining buttery and tender within. The Wuchang rice, known for its fragrance and chewy texture, serves as the perfect base. When combined with the rich Wagyu fat and silky egg yolk, it creates a luscious, velvety coating that envelops each grain, delivering deep satisfaction with every bite.

Bird’s Nest Egg Tart 4/5

A refined dessert that balances richness and delicacy, the Bird’s Nest Egg Tart features a buttery, flaky shell filled with smooth custard and topped with premium bird’s nest. The bird’s nest adds a subtle gelatinous texture, gently absorbing the flavours around it while lightening the overall richness of the tart for a more elegant finish.

Chilled Mango Puree with Peach Collagen and Pomelo 4.2/5

Ending the meal on a refreshing note, the Chilled Mango Puree with Peach Collagen and Pomelo reimagines the classic mango pomelo combination with a modern twist. The addition of peach collagen introduces a soft, jelly-like texture, enhancing the mouthfeel. Juicy pomelo sacs punctuate the sweetness with bursts of citrusy brightness, keeping the dessert light, vibrant and well-balanced.

Man Fu Yuan’s refreshed menu is a compelling reflection of Chef Aaron Tan’s culinary direction — one that respects tradition while embracing thoughtful evolution. From intricate knife work to nuanced flavour layering, each dish showcases a commitment to technique and ingredient integrity. While certain creations lean bold in flavour, the overall experience is one of refinement, balance and craftsmanship, making it a noteworthy destination for those seeking elevated Cantonese cuisine with a contemporary edge.

Note: This is an invited tasting


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

Opening Hours:
Daily: 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]

Pietrasanta @ Connexis Tower, Fusionpolis - Returning To Its Tuscan Roots

Pietrasanta at Fusionopolis is returning to its Tuscan roots. Drawing inspiration from Pietrasanta in Tuscany, the hometown of founders Niccolò and Chef Loris, the restaurant has created a selection of dishes that captures the rustic flavours, traditions and warm hospitality of Tuscany.

Crudo Di Ricciola 4.2/5

We started with two cold appetisers that showcased the simplicity and elegance of Tuscan cuisine. Crudo Di Ricciola ($28.90) featured firm, meaty amberjack paired with sweet-tart tomato confit, lightly dressed with lemon and extra-virgin olive oil, and accented with delicate floral notes from pink peppercorns.

Battuta Di Manzo Con Pecorino Toscano 4/5

Battuta Di Manzo Con Pecorino Toscano ($27.90) highlighted the sharp, intensely savoury character of aged Pecorino Toscano, which was incorporated into the beef tartare alongside lemon and capers, resulting in a bright, balanced finish.

Fritto Viareggino 4/5

Fritto Viareggino ($26.90) was a moreish medley of battered squid, prawns, sardines and vegetables inspired by the coastal town of Viareggio, served with a marinara mayo dipping sauce.

Coccoli Ricotta e Finocchiona 4.2/5

The highlight for me among the appetisers was Coccoli Ricotta e Finocchiona ($24.90), a nostalgic Tuscan street food featuring warm deep-fried dough served with burrata cream and Finocchiona salami. Stuffing the fluffy dough with the milky burrata and herbaceous, garlicky salami created a mouthwatering combination of flavours and textures that left me wanting more.

Pici all’Aglione 4.5/5

Moving on to the mains, Pici all’Aglione ($24.90), the signature Tuscan thick hand-rolled pasta was skilfully executed, delivering a delightful bounce with every bite. The dish embraces the Tuscan philosophy of simplicity, tossing the pasta with just tomato, garlic, and olive oil to let the ingredients’ quality shine.

Risotto Gamberi e Zucchine 4/5

We also tried two risotto dishes. Cooked with lobster bisque, the Risotto Gamberi e Zucchine ($32.90) was crowd-pleasing, with creamy, flavourful Carnaroli risotto studded with chunky prawns, creating textural enjoyment in every bite.

Peposo Di Manzo Con Risotto Al Porri 4.2/5

The Peposo Di Manzo Con Risotto Al Porri ($37.90) featured a firmer, more al dente risotto that I personally preferred, paired with satisfyingly tender braised beef cheek. The renewed menu also embraces regional Tuscan flavours through its artisanal pizzas.

Salsiccia e Cavolo Nero 4.5/5

Among all the mains, the Salsiccia e Cavolo Nero ($28.90) was my absolute favourite and worth returning for. The dough had an excellent structure, providing the perfect foundation for the toppings of mozzarella fior di latte, Tuscan black kale (cavolo nero), flavourful Italian pork sausage, and aged pecorino. Finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and black pepper, every bite was remarkably balanced, delivering a little of everything at once. It was particularly impressive how the wilted kale contributed so much texture and character to the pizza.

Tiramisu 4/5

Zuccotto alla Fiorentina 4.2/5

For dessert, while the Tiramisu ($14.90) was undeniably delectable, the Zuccotto alla Fiorentina ($14.90) offered a rare glimpse into a traditional Florentine sweet. Originating from Florence, this classic dessert is typically crafted in a distinctive pumpkin-shaped mould. Beneath its cake exterior lies a creamy ricotta ice cream filling, complemented by a contrasting sweet-tart berry sauce.

Pietrasanta has long been a staple in the area, and it’s no surprise given its rustic flavours and traditional recipes executed with finesse. While the dishes embrace simplicity, they are rich in character, with the Salsiccia e Cavolo Nero pizza and Pici all’Aglione standing out as highlights worth returning for.

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.


Ristorante Pietrasanta
1 Fusionpolis Way
#01-08
Singapore 138632
Tel: +65 98639253
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Nearest MRT: One-North (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at One-North MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn right and walk out of the building. Turn left and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

YeYak Korean Restaurant @ Neil Road - Native Korean Chef with Receipes Rooted in Tradition From Her Grandmother

YeYak, which means “reservation” in Korean, has relocated from Keppel Road to Neil Road, where it has been quietly building a following over the past year. The kitchen is helmed by a native Korean chef, while the front-of-house is managed by her Singaporean husband. Together, bringing a warm, personal touch to the dining experience. Many of the recipes are rooted in tradition, passed down from her grandmother.

The complimentary banchan here comes in three varieties - kimchi, cucumber and potato salad, served free-flow. A pleasant surprise is the japchae, which is served once at no additional charge, unlike many other restaurants. Fragrant with sesame oil, it’s incredibly moreish and hard to stop at just one serving.

Braised Short Ribs LA Galbi 4.8/5

We were recommended the LULA Set ($160), ideal for 3–4 diners. A highlight of the set is the Braised Short Ribs LA Galbi, featuring exceptionally tender beef slow-cooked for nearly 48 hours. The tteokbokki, soaked in the rich, slightly sweet broth, complements the dish beautifully. Interestingly, their version uses miltteok (flour-based rice cakes) instead of the usual rice variety, resulting in a softer, less chewy texture.

Original Spicy Stir-Fried Dakgalbi 3.8/5

Also included in the set is the Original Spicy Stir-Fried Dakgalbi, served bubbling hot with a generous mix of ingredients, including tteokbokki, cabbage, carrots, onions, and tender chicken pieces. The spice level is fairly mild, which is approachable for most, but we found ourselves wishing for a bit more heat and depth. It pairs well with rice, though a bolder flavour profile would further elevate the dish.

Deep Fried Pork Belly 5/5

The Deep Fried Pork Belly is a standout. Served with their signature “magic sauce,” garlic, marinated baby tomatoes, shiso leaves and lettuce wraps, it delivers on both texture and flavour. The pork is crisp on the outside, juicy within and notably free of any unpleasant porky aftertaste. That is such a detail we truly appreciated. Paired with the sauce, this dish is incredibly satisfying and easily one of our favourites.

Bacon Corn Cheese Pancake 4/5

The final item in the set is the Bacon Corn Cheese Pancake, generously layered with melted cheese. While it leans more indulgent than traditional, it’s a must-try for cheese lovers. The sweetness of the corn helps balance the richness of the cheese and bacon. For the best experience, enjoy it hot while the cheese is still perfectly melted.

YeYak Fish Cake Soup 4/5

We also added the YeYak Fish Cake Soup ($18 for 4 sticks), charmingly served in a teapot. While the fish cakes themselves are familiar, it’s the broth that truly shines - light, comforting and especially welcome between heavier dishes. A spray bottle of homemade soy sauce is provided, allowing you to customise the flavour to your liking.

Soy Sauce Marinated Crab 4/5

Another add-on we tried was the Soy Sauce Marinated Crab ($32 for 1, $56 for 2, $72 for 3), served with rice topped with seaweed and spring onions. Unlike other versions that can be overly salty, the marinade here leans towards a balanced sweet-savoury profile, making it more approachable. That said, this dish remains an acquired taste and may not appeal to everyone.

Honey Makgeolli 4.5/5

Sunyang Soju 4.5/5

No Korean meal is complete without drinks. We tried the Honey Makgeolli ($35) and Sunyang Soju ($20), both of which impressed us. The makgeolli, served in a charming pot with a ladle, carries a subtle honeyed fragrance, while the soju is smooth and slightly sweet. Both pair wonderfully with the bold flavours of the dishes.

Looking through their à la carte menu, we appreciate the flexibility in portion sizes, which cater to different group sizes, including solo diners.

The space itself is thoughtfully designed, evoking the charm of traditional Korean hanok village homes with a modern touch. There are also floor seating options that offer a more authentic dining experience, and the walls are adorned with charming artwork by the chef-owner.

What stood out to us during our visit was learning that many of the sauces used across the dishes are made in-house by the chef herself, adding a deeply personal and authentic touch to the overall experience. There are also plans to retail these sauces in the future, which is something to look forward to.

YeYak delivers not just on food, but on atmosphere and storytelling. We will definitely be back.

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


YeYak Korean Restaurant
39 Neil Road
Singapore 088823
Tel: +65 88287770/ 88282011
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 2am

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Common Man Coffee Roasters @ Anchorpoint - Launches New Asian-inspired Menu Alongside a Refreshed Drinks Selection

Drawing inspiration from familiar regional flavours and comforting favourites, Common Man Coffee Roasters at Anchorpoint has introduced a new Asian-inspired menu alongside a refreshed drinks selection. The new offerings celebrate the vibrancy and boldness of regional flavours, incorporating influences from dishes such as butter chicken, laksa, curry and tom yum.

Crispy Duck Curry 3.8/5

Of the six new dishes, we tried the Crispy Duck Curry ($32) and Bulgogi Beef Bowl ($26). The Crispy Duck Curry came accompanied by their signature croissant, making for an especially indulgent pairing. The curry was thick, almost paste-like in consistency, deeply aromatic with spices and packed with a lingering heat. The buttery croissant proved perfect for soaking up every last bit of the rich curry. The duck delivered on its promise of crisp skin and succulent meat, though it was slightly let down by an overly heavy hand with the salt.

Bulgogi Beef Bowl 3.5/5

The Bulgogi Beef Bowl was a wholesome combination of mixed grains, fluffy omelette and a generous slab of beautifully charred beef. While the beef was flavourful and nicely grilled, some portions were a little too sinewy.

Citrus Cloud Cold Brew

For drinks, the Citrus Cloud Cold Brew ($9.50) featured a delicious layer of airy foam atop a cold brew infused with yuzu, lemon and calamansi. Refreshing and citrusy, it would be better with a stronger coffee presence and a touch less sweetness for better balance.

Miso Lucky

The Miso Lucky ($9) was a more successful, well-balanced concoction which combines iced white chocolate infused with savoury white miso and lightly sweetened with maple syrup, resulting in a creamy and nuanced beverage.

Common Man Coffee Roasters’ new menu brings familiar Asian flavours into a modern café setting. While there are a few areas that could be refined, the flavours are largely on point.

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.


Common Man Coffee Roasters
Anchorpoint
368 Alexandra Road
#01-01
Singapore 159952
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Nearest MRT: Redhill (EW Line), Queenstown (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue: 730am - 5pm
Wed-Sun: 730am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Redhill MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road, walk to the bus stop opposite Redhill MRT (Stop ID 10201). Take bus number 33 or 120. Alight 4 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Queenstown MRT station. Take Exit B or C. Walk to the bus stop at Queenstown MRT station (Stop ID 11149). Take bus number 195. Alight 3 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]