Hathaway Autograph @ Varel Singapore - Nostalgic Regional Classics Reimagined with Elegance

Hathaway Autograph opens as the flagship restaurant of the Hathaway brand, offering both loyal followers and new diners a compelling reason to rediscover its soulful cuisine. Located within the newly launched Varel Singapore, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel along Selegie Road, the restaurant marks a new chapter for the brand, building on its foundations in Dempsey and Capital Tower while embracing a more refined and contemporary expression.

Perched on the second level, the space impresses with its high ceilings, elegant interiors and lush al fresco terraces overlooking the Mount Sophia enclave. The setting strikes a fine balance between sophistication and warmth, setting the tone for a dining experience that is both polished and deeply personal. Under the helm of Chef Kenneth, the menu draws heavily on “soul food” memories, featuring heirloom recipes and regional Southeast Asian classics, all thoughtfully reimagined without pork or lard.

Heritage Kueh Pie Tee with Shrimp 4/5

We began with the Heritage Kueh Pie Tee with Shrimp ($9 for 3pc), a refined rendition of the beloved Peranakan classic. The delicate golden nyonya pastry cup was impressively thin and shatteringly crisp, cradling a well-braised filling of julienned jicama and carrots that had absorbed the full depth of a savoury stock. Each piece was crowned with a fresh, snappy shrimp and a touch of house-made chilli, adding a bright, piquant lift. It’s a nostalgic starter elevated through precision and restraint.

Otah Otah Mousse 3.8/5

The Otah Otah Mousse ($9 for 3pc) offered a modern interpretation of a familiar favourite. The mousse was exceptionally smooth, delivering the aromatic notes of lemongrass and turmeric with a subtle smokiness, reminiscent of traditional otah. Encased in crisp charcoal cornets and topped with golden tobiko, the dish provided both textural contrast and visual appeal, presenting local flavours in a contemporary, bite-sized format.

Salmon & Coconut Kinilaw 4/5

A refreshing contrast came in the form of the Salmon & Coconut Kinilaw ($19), inspired by the Filipino method of curing fish. The cubes of salmon were rich and buttery, balanced by a bright citrus-vinegar marinade. The addition of coconut milk lent a creamy, tropical nuance that softened the acidity, resulting in a vibrant and well-rounded dish that whetted the appetite.

Wagyu Buntut Broth (tasting portion) 4.2/5

The Wagyu Buntut Broth ($28) was a standout for its depth and richness. Slow-cooked for eight hours, the broth carried a robust beefiness infused with spices such as nutmeg, star anise and clove. The Wagyu oxtail was gelatinous and fork-tender, melting effortlessly into the soup, while root vegetables soaked up the savoury essence. It delivered a comforting, almost nostalgic warmth, akin to a hearty home-cooked meal elevated with premium ingredients.

Boston Lobster Noodle (tasting portion) 4/5

For a touch of indulgence, the Boston Lobster Noodle ($58) impressed with its luxurious execution. The lobster was perfectly cooked, retaining a firm, bouncy texture and natural sweetness. Tossed with noodles in a rich crustacean sauce infused with laksa spices, each strand was coated in umami goodness, anchoring the dish in familiar local flavours.

Ah Nya’s Fish Curry 4.2/5

A highlight of the menu is Ah Nya’s Fish Curry ($36), a heartfelt tribute to heirloom family recipes. The curry gravy was thick, robust and beautifully balanced, with a tangy brightness cutting through the richness of the coconut base. The barramundi fillet was moist and flaky, standing up well to the bold spices. It’s the kind of dish that calls for extra rice to savour every last spoonful.

Assam Udang 4.5/5

Equally compelling was the Assam Udang ($32 for 5pc), a dish that delivered bold, punchy flavours. The tiger prawns were fresh and firm, coated in a thick, glossy tamarind glaze that struck a perfect balance of sweet, sour and spicy. The sauce clung to every crevice, offering a deeply satisfying, finger-licking experience that highlights the essence of Nyonya cooking.

Signature Beef Cheek Rawon 4.2/5

The Signature Beef Cheek Rawon ($35) showcased the beauty of slow cooking. Braised for 12 hours, the beef cheek was incredibly tender, soaking up the rich, earthy buah keluak gravy. The dish carried a complex depth without veering into bitterness, making it both comforting and refined.

Tempe Buncis 4.2/5

Even the vegetable offering impressed. The Tempe Buncis ($14) combined crisp French beans with nutty tempeh, all tossed in a sweet-savoury kicap manis glaze. The addition of wok hei elevated the dish, giving it a smoky depth that made it far more than just a supporting side.

Princess of The Straits 4/5

Desserts continued the theme of nostalgia with a modern twist. The Princess of The Straits ($14) reimagined the classic Puteri Salat by pairing glutinous rice and pandan custard with salted gula jawa ice cream. The interplay of warm and cold, sweet and salty, created a delightful finish that was both comforting and sophisticated.

Glutinous Rice Pudding ‘Pulut Tai Tai’ 3.8/5

Finally, the Glutinous Rice Pudding ‘Pulut Tai Tai’ ($14) offered a familiar favourite in a refined form. The coconut-infused glutinous rice was chewy and fragrant, complemented by a silky kaya gelato that melted into the warm base. It’s a thoughtful reinterpretation that retains the soul of the original while presenting it in a more contemporary light.

Hathaway Autograph successfully bridges the gap between heritage and modernity, delivering Southeast Asian soul food that feels both deeply personal and elegantly executed. With its focus on heirloom recipes, premium ingredients, and refined techniques, it offers a dining experience that evokes nostalgia while embracing innovation. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, Hathaway Autograph stands as a compelling destination for heartfelt, flavour-driven cuisine in a stylish setting.


Hathaway Autograph
Varel Singapore
Level 2
189 Selegie Road
Singapore 188332
Tel: +65 64503400
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Nearest MRT: Little India (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 7am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Little India MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk across the open-air carpark to Selegie Road. Turn right onto Selegie Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining @ Scotts Road - Limited Time 1-for-1 Signature Tasting Menu For This Decemeber

Nestled within The White House along Scotts Road, INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining is a six-time MICHELIN Bib Gourmand awardee. Helmed by Penang-born Chef Heng Eng Ho, the menu showcases more than two decades of his refined understanding of Peranakan flavours. For this festive season, INDOCAFÉ is launching a 1-for-1 Signature Tasting Menu. Priced at $68, the 5-course Signature Tasting Menu highlights the restaurant’s must-try dishes and serves as an excellent introduction to its Peranakan offerings.

Trio Platter 4.5/5

We began with a Trio Platter of quintessential Peranakan snacks: Ngoh Hiang, Kueh Pie Tee, and Otah Otah. Each was delectable, but the Ngoh Hiang stood out for its well-executed meatiness and juiciness.

Fish Maw Soup 4/5

This was followed by the Soup of the Day, a light Fish Maw Soup that was homely and comforting.

Babi Pongteh 5/5

For mains, there is an option between Babi Pongteh or a $10 top-up for Wagyu Beef Rendang. The Babi Pongteh is prepared using Spanish Iberico pork, marinated in fermented soybean paste and stewed with potatoes, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, aromatic spices, onion, and garlic. The restrained use of fermented soybean paste kept the dish well-balanced without tipping into the common pitfall of excessive saltiness. The pork was flavourful and unctuous, as Iberico pork should be, offering a satisfying balance of meat to fat ratio. The accompaniments of potatoes, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots were tender and had thoroughly absorbed the rich, savoury gravy.

Wagyu Beef Rendang 4.8/5

The Wagyu Beef Rendang is a crowd favourite. Succulent and gelatinous, the beef was robust in flavour, with a deep, aromatic richness that clings beautifully to each piece.

Sayur Lodeh 3.8/5

The side dish, Sayur Lodeh, featured a thoughtful addition of fried tempeh for textural contrast. While enjoyable, I would have preferred the vegetables to be simmered longer for a softer, more traditional texture.

Fish Head Curry 4.8/5

If you’re a fan of Fish Head Curry, the add-on option is highly recommended. At $48++ (usual price $58++) for a whole fish head, it is excellent value. The fish was moist and flaky, and the curry was enjoyable without being overly rich in coconut milk. The brinjals and lady’s fingers were also cooked to the right doneness, remaining intact and fresh.

Kueh Salat 5/5, Bubur Cha Cha 3/5

For dessert, you can choose between Kueh Salat or Bubur Cha Cha. The Kueh Salat, with its light and creamy pandan custard layered over sticky glutinous rice, was the more satisfying of the two. The Bubur Cha Cha was decent but leaned more towards the ordinary.

This is my second visit to INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining, and I genuinely feel it’s an underrated spot for Peranakan cuisine. The food was even tastier than during my first experience, and the dining space, which feels both nostalgic and elegant, remains truly unmatched. 1-for-1 Signature Tasting Menu is available from 1 to 31 December 2025, only on weekdays for both lunch and dinner, excluding PH and eve of PH. Maximum of 8 guests per booking.

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.


INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining
35 Scotts Road
Singapore 228227
Tel: +65 9430 7307
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Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NS Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. On Scotts Road, turn right and walk down Scotts Road towards Orchard Road direction. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Yum Cha Restaurant @ Chinatown - Celebrate SG60 with Innovative Local-Inspired Dim Sum Creations at $6 Each Till End August

To celebrate SG60, Yum Cha Restaurant, one of Singapore's beloved dim sum brands, is launching a creative, limited-time menu inspired by signature local flavours.

Available at both its Chinatown and Changi Business Park outlets, the specials are priced at just $6 each from now till 31 August 2025. Expect familiar dishes reimagined through a dim sum lens, featuring Singaporean favourites like Laksa, Chilli Crab, and Bak Kut Teh.

Bak Kut Teh Xiao Long Bao 4.2/5

Yum Cha's chefs dedicate 16 hours to crafting the peppery broth inside the Bak Kut Teh Xiao Long Bao (3 pcs). We took a bite and sip of the soup and were pleasantly surprised by a distinct kick of peppery notes. It even came served with dark soy sauce and chilli, mirroring the traditional BKT experience.

Crusty Chilli Crab Bao 4/5

There has got to be chilli crab on an SG60 menu, right? These Crusty Chilli Crab Bao (2 pcs) were fried to a crisp on the outside and filled with tangy, mildly spicy crab sauce. Topped with a playful crab-shaped crust, it delivers the flavours of chilli crab without the mess.

Handmade Otak-Otak Siew Mai 3.8/5

With its spinach wrapper, black tobiko, and a fragrant otak centre, this version of Handmade Otak-Otak Siew Mai offers a localised spin, though we’d have preferred a punchier spice.

Laksa Rice Flour Roll 4.2/5

One of our favourites from this launch is the Laksa Rice Flour Roll. It's cleverly layered with crab, shrimp, chicken, and dried shrimp wrapped in a crisp rice net and finished with smooth cheong fun skin. We especially enjoyed their house-made laksa gravy, which is well-balanced, neither too lemak nor watery. Make sure to dig into this hot to enjoy it at its best.

Satay Fried Rice 3.5/5

Served next was the Satay Fried Rice accompanied by two satay chicken skewers. While the flavour remained true, it was a pity that the rice was slightly too dry.

Prata Pork Pancake 4/5

I was sceptical of the Prata Pork Pancake initially. Still, I was surprised by the crisp exterior and juicy minced pork filling, which was reminiscent of that from Xiao Long Bao. We found this an enjoyable and likeable pairing, albeit a little oily.

Kaya Bolo Bao 3/5

The Kaya Bolo Bao (2 pcs) comes with a slab of butter and kaya sandwiched inside. The texture leaned more toward bread, and we wished for a crunchier top crust and fluffier bun.

Kopi Gao Bao 3.8/5

Local coffee lovers can keep an eye out for their Kopi Gao Bao (2 pcs), a joint creation with Singaporean instant coffee brand Coffee Hock. Their signature Kopi Gao powder adds a different flair to the usual salted egg custard buns.

Apart from the attractive pricing, Yum Cha is also inviting diners to do good this season with their "Bringing Back the Joy of Five Stones" initiative. Partnering with SG Enable and Re:store, diners who spend a minimum of $60 can purchase handmade Five Stones by differently-abled artisans at $6.

If diners are confident of their Five Stones skills, they can choose to challenge Yum Cha’s in-house Five Stones champions and stand a chance to win a $20 Yum Cha voucher.

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.


Yum Cha Restaurant
20 Trengganu Street
#02-01
Singapore 058479
Tel: +65 6372 1717
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1030am - 9pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 9pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Pagoda Street. Turn right onto Trengganu Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Great Nanyang (大南洋) @ Geneo - Nostalgic Buns, Rojak & Penang Flavours Near Kent Ridge MRT Station

Great Nanyang (大南洋) has unveiled its latest outlet at Geneo, conveniently located next to Kent Ridge MRT station. Staying true to its nostalgic charm, the new space is decked out in retro touches, evoking the warm familiarity of old-school kopitiams. What makes this outlet special? Not just the vintage aesthetics, but exclusive menu items and merchandise that give fans even more to explore.

Mashed Taro Steam Bun 4/5

We began our meal with a colourful array of steamed buns, each with a unique filling that pays tribute to both traditional and playful local flavours. The highlight among the buns was the Mashed Taro Steamed Bun ($4.80). The filling was creamy and smooth with a natural taro flavour that wasn't overly sweet. Encased in a soft, fluffy bun, it was comforting and nostalgic. It is a true crowd-pleaser.

Bak Kwa Chicken Floss Steam Bun 3.8/5

Bak Kwa Chicken Floss Steam Bun ($5.80) is an inventive bun that combines two festive favourites: bak kwa and chicken floss. Reminiscent of Chinese New Year snack pairings, this creative take worked surprisingly well. The smoky sweetness of the bak kwa paired nicely with the savoury floss, delivering a delicious umami bite.

Peanut Butter Steamed Bun 4/5

Otak-Otak Steam Bun 4/5

The Peanut Butter ($3.50) and Otak-Otak ($4.80) versions are excellent choices for those who prefer something more classic. The peanut butter bun was rich and gooey, while the otak-otak version had just the right level of spice and fishiness to satisfy without overwhelming.

Traditional Kaya Butter Toast 4/5

A staple of local breakfasts, the Traditional Kaya Butter Toast ($2.70) didn't disappoint. The bread was crisp on the outside, slathered with fragrant house-made kaya and thick, cold slabs of butter that melted slightly on contact. It was simple, nostalgic, and perfect.

French Toast 4/5

The French Toast ($4.50) offered a slightly richer take, with slices dipped in egg before being pan-fried to golden perfection. Paired with a sweet kaya dipping sauce, it made for a satisfying midday snack or light breakfast.

Fresh Fruit Rojak 3/5

One of the unique offerings at this outlet is the Fresh Fruit Rojak cart, where diners can handpick fruit skewers at $1.50 per stick. Once assembled, the fruits are tossed in a bold, punchy rojak sauce that balances sweetness, tartness, and spice. It's light, refreshing, and great for sharing.

Penang White Curry Noodle 3.5/5

The hearty bowl of Penang White Curry Noodles ($8.90) comes with a combination of yellow noodles and beehoon, swimming in a creamy, coconut-based broth. Topped with taupok, fishballs, and prawns, the dish was satisfying on its own, but really came alive with the addition of their in-house chilli paste, which brought out the full complexity of the curry.

Chicken Berempah Leg Nasi Lemak Kukus 4/5

Served with steamed nasi lemak rice, the Chicken Berempah Leg Nasi Lemak Kukus ($8.90) featured boneless chunks of chicken leg marinated in a fragrant blend of Malay spices, then deep-fried until crispy on the outside and tender within. Accompanied by peanuts, sambal, and a fried egg, this was a fulfilling one-plate meal with bold, aromatic flavours.

Nanyang Style Dry Curry Prawns 4.8/5

If you're dining in a group, there’s an extensive selection of cooked dishes perfect for communal feasting. We tried a few standouts:

Served with five large prawns, the Nanyang Style Dry Curry Prawns ($18) was a flavour bomb. The dry curry was aromatic, thick, and spicy, coating each prawn in a fragrant gravy that demanded extra rice. It was deeply satisfying. This is a must-order.

Sambal Kang Kong 4.2/5

Classic and well-executed, the Sambal Kang Kong ($8.80) was stir-fried in a robust sambal belacan, giving it a spicy and savoury kick while maintaining its fresh crunch.

Penang Asam Curry Fish Head 4.5/5

The Penang Asam Curry Fish Head ($32.80) is an impressive claypot dish brimming with flavour. The asam curry was wonderfully tangy, with a gentle heat that teased the palate. The fish head was fresh and meaty, surrounded by a medley of lady fingers, brinjal, long beans, and tomatoes. Every bite was hearty, bold, and comforting—the kind of dish that makes you reach for extra rice just to mop up the sauce.

Great Nanyang at Geneo is more than just a place to eat. It's a nostalgic trip down memory lane with creative modern twists. From playful steamed buns and toast sets to flavourful nasi lemak and claypot fish head curry, there's something for every appetite. Whether you're popping in for breakfast or gathering with friends for a full meal, this outlet delivers warmth, flavour, and a delightful dose of nostalgia.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Great Nanyang (大南洋)
Geneo
1B Science Park Drive
#B1-32
Singapore 119315
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Nearest MRT: Kent Ridge (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 830pm

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