Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao @ Bugis Junction - Presents Refreshed Menu of Northern Chinese cuisine

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao presents a refreshed menu that showcases the richness and diversity of Northern Chinese cuisine. The new line-up spans refined appetisers, slow-braised delicacies and robust wok-fried dishes, highlighting distinctive regional flavours and homestyle cooking traditions.

Classic Shanghai Xiao Long Bao 5/5

The restaurant’s signature Classic Shanghai Xiao Long Bao ($9.80/6 pcs) remains a staple and crowd favourite.

Shanghai Style Smoked Fish 4.5/5

The Shanghai Style Smoked Fish ($12.80) is a classic Shanghainese dish featuring fish slices marinated and deep-fried, then coated in a glossy, sticky glaze. Despite the frying, the fish retained a commendable level of moisture within, making it both flavourful and satisfying.

Wuxi Deep-fried Whitebait 4/5

From the waterways of Wuxi comes the Wuxi Deep-fried Whitebait ($9.80), a simple yet enjoyable dish that reflects the riverside culture and abundant aquatic produce of Jiangsu province.

Crispy Duck Served with Egg Crepe 3.8/5

The Crispy Duck Served with Egg Crepe ($24.80) offers a textural twist on the traditional Peking Duck. The duck arrived crisp and golden with a light, airy batter, accompanied by homemade egg crepes, scallions and cucumber. A chef’s secret sauce tied all the components together, creating a well-balanced and flavourful bite.

Shanghai Braised Pork Belly 4.5/5

Among the highlights was the Shanghai Braised Pork Belly with Beancurd Skin Knots ($20.80), a comforting homestyle dish rooted in old Shanghai. The braising sauce was reduced to a rich, sticky glaze that coated the chunky ingredients beautifully. Both the pork belly and beancurd skin knots were braised until tender, with the unctuous pork belly melting in the mouth.

Shanghai Stir-fried Thick Noodle 4.5/5

The Shanghai Stir-fried Thick Noodle with Shredded Pork & Cabbage ($15.80) is a wholesome plate of everyday flavours of Shanghai’s culinary heritage. We particularly enjoyed the well-balanced ratio of springy, thick noodles to shredded pork and vegetables. The dark soy-based sauce lent the dish a satisfying depth of flavour without overwhelming the other ingredients.

The refreshed menu is available at the Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao outlets at Bugis Junction, i12 Katong, and Toa Payoh.

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.


Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao
Bugis Junction
200 Victoria Street
#B1-04A
Singapore 188021
Tel: +65 83338978
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Nai Nai Flavor (椿花奶奶) @ I12 Katong - Debuts in Singapore with Unique Hangzhou Dishes You Don’t Often See

One of Hangzhou’s most sought-after dining concepts has arrived in Singapore with the opening of Nai Nai Flavor (椿花奶奶), marking its first foray outside China. The restaurant showcases a repertoire of handmade dishes and regional specialities that are still relatively under the radar locally. Rooted in Hangzhou, the cultural heart of the Jiangnan region, the cuisine here draws from Hang Bang Cai (杭帮菜), a subset of Zhejiang cuisine, one of China’s eight great culinary traditions. Known for its refined, lighter profile and emphasis on natural flavours, the dishes lean towards balance rather than bold seasoning.

Spicy Tofu Pan-fried Bun 3.5/5

The Spicy Tofu Pan-fried Bun ($12.80) is a rare find in Singapore, offering a creative spin on the classic sheng jian bao. Swapping out the usual minced pork filling, this version features a mapo-style tofu interior, bringing a Sichuan-inspired twist to the Jiangnan staple. The dough is freshly prepared and pan-fried to achieve a crisp, golden base, while the top remains soft and fluffy from steaming. What sets this apart is the addition of a thin layer of whisked egg at the base during frying, forming a delicate, crispy “skirt” that carries a subtle omelette-like fragrance. While I appreciated the contrast in textures, from the fluffy bun to the crisp base and eggy crust, the tofu filling fell short. It lacked the depth and satisfying bite that a well-marinated meat filling typically delivers, resulting in a less impactful overall experience.

Shaoxing Steamed Soup Dumplings 3.5/5

The Shaoxing Steamed Soup Dumplings ($11.50) present a lesser-seen variation of xiao long bao. Originating in Shaoxing, Zhejiang, these dumplings are filled with seasoned pork. They are topped with finely shredded egg and a light brushing of fermented bean curd sauce, lending a gentle savoury complexity. While the concept was intriguing, the execution did not quite meet expectations. The dumplings lacked the hallmark soupy interior one would anticipate, and the distinctive aroma of Shaoxing wine was barely perceptible. As such, the dish felt more like a regular steamed dumpling rather than a standout regional speciality.

Youbu Style Egg Cake (Egg & Chicken Pancake) 4.5/5

A highlight of the meal, the Youbu Style Egg Cake: Egg & Chicken Pancake ($11.80) is another rarity in Singapore. This regional delicacy is said to be prepared using a 1,300-year-old technique in which an egg is incorporated directly into the dough during cooking rather than added as a filling. The result is something between a pancake and a flatbread, with crisp, golden edges and a rich, slightly chewy centre. Packed with juicy chicken, fragrant chives, and egg, each bite was immensely satisfying. The interplay of textures and flavours made this dish incredibly addictive and easily one of the standouts on the menu.

Saliva Chicken 3/5

The Saliva Chicken ($8.80), also known as mouthwatering chicken, is a cold appetiser with a bold, spicy profile designed to whet the appetite. However, this rendition felt rather muted. It lacked the punchy, numbing heat and aromatic complexity typically associated with the dish, making it somewhat forgettable.

Minced Pork Noodles 3/5

The Minced Pork Noodles ($8.50) features springy noodles topped with a generous portion of braised minced pork in a dark soy-based sauce. The flavour profile leans towards the savoury-sweet spectrum characteristic of Zhejiang cuisine. Accompaniments such as shredded cucumber, carrot, and peanuts add layers of texture. While comforting, the dish did not quite stand out among the other offerings.

Grandma’s Secret Dish, Chicken & Pork Soup 4.2/5

The Chicken & Pork Soup ($16.80/$29.80) is a hearty claypot dish that focuses on depth of flavour achieved through slow cooking rather than heavy seasoning. Sealed with a sheet of beancurd skin, the dish releases a comforting aroma upon opening. The broth is rich yet clean-tasting, drawing natural sweetness from ingredients such as sweet corn, mushrooms, and red dates. It delivers a nourishing, homely quality that is both soothing and satisfying. Notably, while menu photos and other reviews indicated the presence of cordyceps flowers, these were absent in my serving.

Brown Sugar Glutinous Rice Cake 4.2/5

Rounding off the meal is the Brown Sugar Glutinous Rice Cake ($5.80), a traditional dessert also known as Hong Tang Ci Ba. The glutinous rice is pounded and shaped into batons, then deep-fried to achieve a crisp exterior while retaining a soft, chewy centre. Served with a generous drizzle of brown sugar syrup, the dessert offers deep caramel notes that complement the mild, sticky rice. It is a simple yet satisfying end to the meal, beautifully balancing texture and sweetness.

Overall, Nai Nai Flavour offers a refreshing glimpse into the understated elegance of Hangzhou cuisine, featuring several unique dishes not commonly found in Singapore. While some executions could be refined, the restaurant succeeds in bringing a distinct regional identity to the local dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nai Nai Flavor (椿花奶奶)
I12 Katong
112 East Coast Road
#02-13/14
Singapore 428802
Tel: +65 62220535
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Nearest MRT: Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight to Joo Chiat Road. Turn left onto Joo Chiat Road. Walk down Joo Chiat Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 6 minutes [Map]

Sushiro @ Square 2 - Crowd Favourite Conveyor Belt Sushi Opens 18th Outlet in Novena

We’ve been big fans of Sushiro and were excited to learn that they’ve opened their newest and 18th outlet at Novena Square 2. It’s conveniently located right by the MRT exit to Square 2 - just head up the stairs and you’re there.

The outlet is spacious and brightly lit, consistent with Sushiro’s other locations. What we enjoy most are their seasonal menu launches and attractive promotions, which always give us a good reason to return. The easiest way to stay updated is via their Instagram, @sushirosingapore.

Crab lovers should not miss their ongoing “Claws for Celebration” seasonal menu. Our favourites included the light, crispy Soft Shell Crab ($4.90), the buttery, indulgent Mix Crab Stack with Crab Butter & Lemon ($5.90), and the Fresh Snow Crab ($3.90). The latter is also available in variations such as Aburi Fresh Snow Crab with Salt and Lemon ($3.90) and Aburi Soy Sauce Fresh Snow Crab ($3.90).

The Soft Shell Crab, in particular, was served piping hot and generously filled with crab roe.

This festive period, dine in at any Sushiro outlet to receive a free limited-edition Dakkosushi Ang Bao (a pack of six) with a minimum spend of $50. You’ll also receive an $8 return voucher, with both promotions available while stocks last.

Beyond the seasonal offerings, there’s an extensive selection of sushi and dishes to choose from. Expect classics such as Salmon Belly, Bluefin Fatty Tuna, Red Snapper, Yellowtail and Scallop, alongside creative items such as Cold Chawanmushi, Aburi Shrimp Cheese, Salmon with Avocado, and Marinated Sesame Young Yellowtail.

There are also fried items, sides, noodles, soups and desserts to round up the meal. Prices are indicated by coloured plates, starting from $2.90.

For added convenience, we recommend making a reservation in advance via the Sushiro mobile app and checking in upon arrival to ensure smooth seating.

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.


Sushiro
Square 2
10 Sinaran Drive
#01-01 to 05, 23 to 32, 45/46
Singapore 307506
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Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Novena MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Yuen Kee Dumpling (袁记云饺) @ Clementi Ave 3 - Bringing Its Signature Handmade Dumplings to the West

Yuen Kee Dumpling (袁记云饺) expands its footprint to Clementi, bringing its well-loved handmade dumplings closer to Westies seeking hearty, comforting bites. Known for its generous fillings and time-honoured craftsmanship, the brand continues to deliver the same nostalgic flavours that have won over generations.

Shrimp and Vegetable Pork Dumpling 4/5

We started with the Shrimp and Vegetable Pork Dumpling ($9.80), which comes with 10 plump pieces. Each dumpling boasts a juicy filling encased in a dough that strikes a good balance — not too thick, yet with enough bite to hold everything together. The dumplings are tossed in the restaurant’s so-called viral mixed sauce with chilli oil and served over a bed of bean sprouts. Nutty, mildly spicy and aromatic, the sauce adds a lively lift without overpowering the dumplings.

Shrimp and Crab Roe Pork Wanton 4.2/5

We also tried the soup option with the Shrimp and Crab Roe Pork Wanton ($10.80). The Cantonese-style broth is light yet comforting, pairing well with the silky wantons. Compared to the dry version, this bowl leans more towards heartwarming simplicity, which some diners may prefer.

Fresh Corn Juice 3/5

An interesting item on the drinks menu caught my eye — the Fresh Corn Juice ($3.80), served hot. It’s lighter and less sweet than expected, though the distinct corn flavour comes through. While not particularly indulgent, it’s a quirky alternative for those curious to try something different.

Noodles with Fried Bean and Meat Sauce

Worried that the dumplings alone might not be filling, we added on the Noodles with Fried Bean and Meat Sauce ($5.50). The noodles have a pleasant chew and pair well with the marinated mixture of fried bean and meat. Reminiscent of Zha Jiang Mian, this bowl offers simple, savoury satisfaction.

With its new Clementi outlet, Yuen Kee Dumpling offers Westies better access to its familiar handmade dumplings and noodles. While the menu remains simple, the comforting flavours and reasonable pricing make it a dependable spot for a satisfying meal in the neighbourhood.


Yuen Kee Dumpling (袁记云饺)
Blk 446 Clementi Ave 3
#01-195
Singapore 120446
Tel: +65 89319588
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Clementi Mall. Exit the mall and walk to Block 448 Clementi Market and Food Centre. Continue walking past the food centre to block 446. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes.[Map]

Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) @ Paragon - Ring in the Christmas Holidays with Din Tai Fung’s Steamed Lola Lava Chocolate Bun

Din Tai Fung’s festive favourite, the Steamed Lola Lava Chocolate Bun, makes its long-awaited return this holiday season.

Available at all outlets islandwide from 1 November to 31 December 2025, this sweet treat is back to spread some chocolatey cheer.

Steamed Lola Lava Chocolate Bun 4/5

The Steamed Lola Lava Chocolate Bun ($4/piece, $11.40/3 pieces) features a soft, pillowy bun encasing a molten chocolate centre that oozes with every bite. It’s rich yet balanced in sweetness, without being cloying.

Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing 4/5

Beyond the festive offering, we also had a few of Din Tai Fung’s classic dishes. The Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing is always our go-to starter, being refreshing, tangy and savoury all at once. It’s a good sharing starter.

Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao 4/5

No visit to Din Tai Fung is complete without the crowd favourite Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao. Each delicate ‘bao’ features thin skin that holds tender, juicy pork and a burst of well-seasoned broth.

Steamed Chilli Crab & Pork Buns 3.8/5

The Steamed Chilli Crab & Pork Buns were fluffy and served piping hot. Though we wished for a bit more filling, the blend of savoury pork and mildly spicy chilli crab sauce made for a fun, locally inspired twist

Oriental Wantons with Black Vinegar & Chilli Oil 3.8/5

The Oriental Wantons with Black Vinegar & Chilli Oil were decent, with a pork filling and tossed in an appetising vinegar and chilli oil mix.

Noodle with Spicy Sauce 3.8/5

While the Noodle with Spicy Sauce had addictive spice, we wished it came with more ingredients to pair with it.

Fried Rice with Pork Chop & Eggs 4/5

The diners from our neighbouring table ordered a plate of fried rice each, and it’s a testament to how popular Din Tai Fung’s Fried Rice is. We like how it is always consistently seasoned, fragrant and well-fried. Our favourite rendition is with their hearty pork chop, but you can also opt for it plain, with shrimps, shredded pork, and even truffles.

Dry Noodles Tossed in Scallion Oil with Shredded Pork 4/5

It was our first time trying the Dry Noodles Tossed in Scallion Oil with Shredded Pork, and we became new fans. The springy noodles were well-coated in aromatic scallion oil and topped with shredded pork.

Beverages

For beverages, we tried the Earl Grey Ice Lemon Tea and the new Four Seasons Tea with Peach Gum. Both were surprisingly tasty, albeit a little too sweet.

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.


Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
Paragon Shopping Centre
#B1 - 03
290 Orchard Road
Singapore 238859
Tel: +65 6836 8336
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 9.15pm

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 destination. Journey time 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 about 12 minutes. [Map]