Yue Bai (月白) @ Duxton Road - Refined Fujian Heritage Dishes Paired with Portuguese Wines

Yue Bai on Duxton Road has launched a new Summer Menu crafted by Singaporean Chef - Owner Lee Hong Wei for the summer season. Celebrating his Fujian heritage, Yue Bai's new seasonal menu offers a touch of modernity to Fujian dishes from various cities. In addition to the Summer Menu, Yue Bai also introduces its extensive selection of Portuguese wines for wine pairing, the largest collection in a Chinese restaurant in Singapore. These wines, known for their varied and lively notes, complement the refined flavours of Hokkien cuisine without overpowering them.

Appetisers 4.5/5

We began with some appetisers. Tinted in pink, the Roselle Flower-Infused Chinese Yam ($12) was a light and nourishing bite, crunchy with an elevated sweetness. Crisp-Fried Burdock with Sesame Seeds and Spice Powder ($14) was moreish, and the Crisp-Fried Beancurd Skin with Minced Chicken and Water Chestnut ($14), seasoned with Five Spice, boasted a juicy and mouthwatering texture. Made from organic purple rice, the Deep-Fried Organic Purple Rice Cake ($16) carried a nuttier flavour, enriched with XO Sauce, Rice Puff, and Spring Onions. The Lion Mane Mushroom Nuggets with Salted Egg, Curry Leaf, and Bird's Eye Chilli ($18) was a table favourite. The minced and pressed mushrooms created meat-free nuggets with a surprisingly juicy and non-greasy texture. The salted egg and milk powder formed a perfect powdery light coating.

Double-Boiled Night Blooming Cereus 4.5/5

Next, we enjoyed a nourishing Double-Boiled Night Blooming Cereus, Dried Fig, and Duck Breast Soup ($18). The clear broth, featuring Ba Wang Hua (dehydrated Night-Blooming Cereus flower), known for its detoxifying properties, offered a herbaceous taste and sweetness with a comforting deep flavour.

Tong Ann Braised Pork Belly 4/5

The mains showcased timeless Fujian classics, which are relatively labour-intensive and traditionally reserved for special occasions. The Tong Ann Braised Pork Belly ($38) featured a thick cut of pork belly slow-cooked with Dried Oyster, Dried Shrimp, and Chestnut. While the dark and umami sauce was delightful, some parts of the meat were somewhat dry, which was a pity.

Stir-Fried Sweet Potato Cake 4.8/5

One of the highlights was the Stir-Fried Sweet Potato Cake ($32) with Shiitake, Sakura Prawns, and XO Sauce. The dish's smoky and umami flavour made it a crowd-pleaser, and the chewy texture of the sweet potato cake was impressive. Apparently, it hasn't been easy for Chef Lee to create such a texture as the characteristics of our local flours differ from those of China. Chef Lee's effort paid off, making this a must-try!

Hokkien Braised Noodles 4/5

Hokkien Braised Noodles ($35), a native's favourite, is elevated with a Seafood Medley. Braised in an oyster-based stock, the noodles were served with scallops, prawns, and lettuce, topped with minced mushrooms, pork, and fried garlic. The noodles' texture was enjoyable, and their light flavour profile complemented the more robustly flavoured dishes.

Braised Yam, Alkaline Rice Cake 4.5/5

The Braised Yam, Alkaline Rice Cake ($18) is traditionally reserved for Chinese New Year. Chef Lee replaced rice with yam using his grandmother's recipe because of its higher collagen content. The rice cake was tender with a slight hint of alkaline taste, paired perfectly with the tender pieces of yam doused with a highly flavoured sauce.

Braised Chinese Mustard Green 4/5

Braised Chinese Mustard Green, Minced Pork, and Sun-Dried Chinese Mustard ($24) was a simple, homely dish. The lightly poached Chinese mustard was topped with an appetising mixture of minced pork and mei cai.

Jasmine Milk Pudding 5/5

Dessert was impeccable. The wobbly Jasmine Milk Pudding ($12) was aromatic with jasmine floral notes and finished with Xiang Pian Tea to balance the sweetness. We ended the evening with an amazing dessert wine from Portugal, adding a perfect finale to the meal.

Yue Bai is proud to unveil a special promotion in tribute to Chef's Fujian heritage and in the spirit of sharing Hokkien creations with a broader audience. Enjoy 50% off select weekly dishes from 20 May to 30 June 2024. Six dishes will be on promotion on rotation depending on the different weeks:

20 – 26 May 2024: Stir - Fried Sweet Potato Cake, Shiitake, Sakura Prawns, XO Sauce (UP $32)
27 May – 2 June 2024: Braised Chinese Mustard Green, Minced Pork, Sun-dried Chinese Mustard (UP $26)
3 – June 2024: Tong Ann Braised Pork Belly, Dried Oyster, Dried Shrimp, Chestnut (UP $38)
10 – 16 June 2024: Hokkien Braised Noodle with Seafood Medley (UP $35)
17 – 23 June 20 24: Chinese Mustard Green, Shiitake, Sakura Prawns, Pork Belly, Rice (UP $28)
24 - 30 June 2024: Red Vinasse Pork, Turnip Pearl (UP $28)

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


Yue Bai (月白)
33 Duxton Road
Singapore 089497
Tel: +65 97218055
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1145am - 3pm, 545pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon except PH)

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

Liu Fu Si Fang Cai (劉府私房菜) Privating Dining - An Exclusive Culinary Haven for Chinese Cuisine Enthusiasts

I recently had the privilege of experiencing Liu Fu Si Fang Cai (劉府私房菜), a sought-after private dining in Singapore. It stands as a revered bastion of private dining dedicated to the art of Chinese cuisine. Though open to reservations monthly, it maintains an air of exclusivity, requiring a dash of luck to secure a coveted table.

Black Garlic Chicken Soup 4.5/5

The dining symphony commenced with the elegant overture of Black Garlic Chicken Soup. Served bubbling in a pot, the chicken, infused with the subtle sweetness of black garlic, bestowed an enriched depth to the flavoursome broth. The harmony between the robust chicken essence and the nuanced black garlic note was a delightful prelude to the feast ahead.

Har Cheong Pork Belly 4.2/5

Setting the stage for innovative culinary twists, Liu Fu Si Fang Cai showcased their rendition of Har Cheong Pork Belly. While Har Cheong Chicken is a familiar delicacy, the concept of Har Cheong Pork Belly was a revelation. Delicately fried to a golden crisp, the pork belly delivered a burst of flavour, harmoniously merging the beloved shrimp paste essence with the tender meat.

Steamed Soon Hock with 2 types of Chye Poh 4/5

The spotlight then turned to the Steamed Soon Hock with 2 types of Chye Poh. This perfectly executed dish demonstrated the synergy between delicate cooking techniques and thoughtfully paired ingredients. The marriage of the Soon Hock's tender flesh with the distinct sweetness of the Chye Poh created a symphony of flavours that tantalized the palate.

Mustard Greens with Sio Bak 5/5

An unexpected delight arrived in the form of Mustard Greens with Sio Bak, cooked ingeniously in Assam. This unique concoction showcased the culinary prowess of Liu Fu Si Fang Cai. The infusion of Assam into the dish balanced the inherent bitterness of the mustard greens, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavours that delighted even the most discerning palates.

Fried Hokkien Mee 4/5

The highly anticipated signature, Fried Hokkien Mee, took the stage next. Infused with the rich essence of prawn stock, the dish was a homage to traditional flavours. While not claiming the crown of the best I've tasted, it was undoubtedly a plate of gratifying delight.

Black Pepper Crab 4.5/5

The feast took a delightful twist with the indulgence of Black Pepper Crab. Delving into the crab's succulent flesh, coated in a piquant black pepper sauce, was an experience that ignited the senses. The sauce's fiery notes skillfully complemented the crab's natural sweetness, making it a finger-licking, unforgettable endeavour.

Crystal Tang Yuan 3.5/5

As the culinary journey drew to a close, the Crystal Tang Yuan took centre stage, offering a sweet denouement to the gastronomic masterpiece. Bursting with two distinct flavours, this dessert captured the essence of Liu Fu Si Fang Cai's innovative approach to traditional dishes, leaving a lingering and memorable impression.

In conclusion, Liu Fu Si Fang Cai stands as a testament to the heritage and classic dishes that flourish within the realm of private dining. Each dish's harmonious symphony of flavours and techniques showcases the chef's dedication to elevating the dining experience. While the reservation process may demand a dash of luck, the resulting culinary journey is undoubtedly worth the anticipation. For those pursuing a gastronomic adventure that marries tradition and creativity, Liu Fu Si Fang Cai awaits with open doors and exquisite creations.


Liu Fu Si Fang Cai (劉府私房菜) Privating Dining
20 Tembeling Road
Singapore 423556
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San Shu Gong Private Dining (三叔公私房菜) @ Geylang Road - Teochew Cuisine By Former Chui Huay Lim Chef

Together with my foodie friends, we made a reservation at San Shu Gong Private Dining (三叔公私房菜) for a Sunday lunch. From what I understand, the restaurant specialises in Teochew cuisine, and their chef was formerly from Chui Huay Lim Teochew Cuisine in Singapore. It happened to be one of my favourite Chinese restaurants in Singapore.

Braised Goose, Teochew Style 4/5

We started with the Braised Goose, Teochew Style ($26 | $70 | $136). The sliced goose meat is laid on top of a bed of braised tofu in a light yet flavoursome braising sauce. To fully appreciate it, I would highly recommend having the tender goose meat with tangy chilli dipping sauce.

Pig's Liver with Crispy Youtiao and Spring Onion 4.5/5

A special item for the day was the Pig's Liver. The pig's liver was well executed, having a delightful crunchy texture. What surprises us is the addition of crispy youtiao, soaking up the delicious sauce. The pairing is something new for me. I have not seem this pairing in other restaurants.

Steamed Fish with Aged Radish and Minced Meat 4/5

Being a Teochew, I love my steamed fish. Hence it is inevitable that I have to order the dish. They have a few options for cooking the fish, and we decided to try the Steamed Fish with Aged Radish and Minced Meat.

Pan-fried Oyster Omelette 4.2/5

I got excited when I saw the Pan-fried Oyster Omelette ($15). It is my favourite dish at Chui Huay Lim Teochew Cuisine. I am glad that I can have this unique style of an oyster omelette here. Crispy on the outside and gooey inside, this is probably the best version of the oyster omelette I have eaten.

Braised Salted Pork Ribs with Mustard Green 4/5

Not many people like mustard green, but being a Teochew, I have grown up eating it, and it has become a taste of childhood for me. Whenever possible, I will order it if my dining companions don't mind, as mustard green has a bitter-earthy taste. We had the Braised Salted Pork Ribs with Mustard Green ($28 | $42). The pork ribs were incredibly tender and cooked in a delicious superior broth. The mustard green was also soft and tender.

Wok-fried Kailan with Dried Sole 3.5/5

We also have the Wok-Fried Kailan with Dried Sole ($18 | $24 | $36). While the Kai Lan was cooked to a delectable crunch, it lacked the aroma from the dried sole.

Wok-fried "Cai Pu" Kway Teow with Homemade XO Sauce 3/5

While the Wok-fried "Cai Pu" Kway Teow with Homemade XO Sauce ($12 | $18 | $24) was packed with wok hei with crunchy diced kai lan, the rice noodle was a bit heavy-handed on the salty side.

Deep-fried Yam Stick Encrusted with Fine Sugar 3/5

For dessert, we tried the Deep-fried Yam Stick Encrusted with Fine Sugar ($18). I didn't quite enjoy it as it was on the dry side. I have tried the same dish elsewhere, which has a softer interior.

Fried Water Chestnut

We also had the deep-fried Fried Water Chestnut. It was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.


San Shu Gong Private Dining (三叔公私房菜)
135 Geylang Road
#01-01
Singapore 389226
Tel: +65 67410344
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Nearest MRT: Kallang (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Kallang MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to traffic junction Geylang Lorong 1 and Kallang Road. Cross the road and walk down Geylang Lorong 1 towards Geylang Road. Turn left onto Geylang Road. Walk to destination. [Map]