Ilmiri @ Circular Road - A Taste of New Creations Showcasing Innovative Approach to Traditional Korean Dishes

Ilmiri, specialising in Korean fusion cuisine, has been making waves in Singapore as its first outlet outside of Korea. Its innovative approach to traditional Korean dishes has garnered attention and praise. Intrigued by its recent menu expansion, we were eager to explore the new offerings.

Mala Jjimdak 4/5

One of their most popular dishes, Jjimdak, now comes in four new flavours: Mala, Jiajang Mala, Rosé, and Mala Rosé. We tried the Mala Jjimdak ($39.90), which reminded us of Mala Xiang Guo! It was nice and savoury with a good kick of spices. The potato slices and glass noodles soaked up the sauce so well that we kept going for more.

Buldak Noodle 3.8/5

Another spicy dish is the Buldak Noodle ($22.90) with chicken. The chicken pieces are full of flavour and nicely charred, a great pairing with the spicy noodles. This is a levelled-up Samyang Hot Chicken Ramen for the spice lovers.

Chicken Pancake 4.2/5

This Chicken Pancake ($17.90) dish surprised us! It's crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Ilmiri does not serve the 'usual' Korean-style pancake, like seafood with leek or kimchi, and we didn't expect chicken to taste so good as a Korean pancake. This is great for sharing or pairing with drinks.

Stir Fried Pork 4/5

Another dish that is great to pair with drinks is the Stir Fried Pork ($28.90). It comes with fresh lettuce and unique white kimchi on the side, which you can wrap together for a good bite. We were told that white kimchi is washed and then stir-fried. It has a char flavour and retains a bit of the vinegarish taste.

Chicken Soup 3.8/5

Chicken Soup Set ($17.90) is very comforting. The soup is very 'clean' and packed with sweetness, served with noodles, rice and banchan. We were told to eat it with noodles first and then rice. Our only qualm is that the chicken slices are a bit dry as they used chicken breast.

Kimchi BBQ Nacho 3.5/5

A unique fusion rendition is this Kimchi BBQ Nacho ($24.90) with bulgogi beef or pork, chopped white kimchi, diced tomatoes, nacho cheese and guacamole. The portion is quite big and suitable for sharing, but we wish there were more cheese/sauce to bind the ingredients together. The guacamole is very fresh and flavourful though.

Makgeolli Cocktails 3.8/5

Makgeolli, a traditional Korean liquor made with fermenting rice, is now available in cocktail form in flavours such as Honeycomb ($13), Banana, Melon, Grape, and Peach ($15). Our favourite is the Honeycomb one, which boosts the stronger and more profound taste of Makgeolli.

P/S: If you are a fan of the Korean street snack Hotteok, Ilmiri will be rolling this out as a dessert option. We tried it first-hand during this tasting, and it was a sweet ending.

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


ilmiri
25/26 Circular Road
Singapore 049381
Tel: +65 8468 8566
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11.30am - 11pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk straight to Circular Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Cai Lin Ji (蔡林記) @ Tanjong Pagar - Newly Opened 2nd Outlet at Guoco Tower Featuring Hubei Signatures

Cai Lin Ji (蔡林記) first introduced their Hubei Signatures to Jurong Point in Boon Lay but has quickly introduced their second new outlet at Guoco Tower in Tanjong Pagar. Guoco Tower is conveniently connected to Tanjong Pagar MRT Station, and you can reach its store in less than two minutes after tapping out.

Cai Lin Ji is a very no-frills type of eatery where the food is served fast and priced reasonably.

Green Brick Tea

We had Hubei's prized heritage tea to accompany our meal. The Green Brick Tea ($6.80/pot) was mellow and refreshing, helpful to cut through the heavier dishes.

Steamed Pork with Rice Flour 4.2/5

While it didn't look the most appetising, the Steamed Pork with Rice Flour ($9.90) was a pleasant surprise. This had steamed soft potatoes and tender pork belly loaded with rich and nutty spiced rice flour. We learned that this is a rare dish even in restaurants in China and is usually enjoyed at home instead for special festive occasions.

Pearl Meatballs 4.2/5

The Pearl Meatballs ($5.90/3 pcs) were reminiscent of our local Lo Mai Gai (glutinous rice chicken). The rice exterior was sticky to the teeth, but we didn't mind. You will find tender and juicy meat within.

Vegetable Cold Dish Appetiser 3.5/5

For something lighter, you can consider the Vegetable Cold Dish Appetiser ($5.90), which has a slightly tangy mix of glass noodles, black fungus, carrots, and more.

Shrimp HuTangFen 3.8/5

We found the Shrimp HuTangFen ($11.90) a tad underwhelming. The gravy is distinctly peppery with a slightly thicker consistency.

While I enjoyed the bits of crunchy sour vegetables and savoury hae bi, they could come in a bigger portion for better variety in flavour and texture.

Zha Jiang Hot Dry Noodles 4.5/5

We initially saw a couple of average reviews for the Zha Jiang Hot Dry Noodles ($7.90), mentioning that it was too dry, but ours was done just right!

The slightly chewy noodles are tossed in a very nutty sauce with a base of sesame, dark soya, garlic and sweet bean before being topped with minced meat, crunchy preserved vegetables, and spring onions. This was full of flavour with well-marinated meat. I recommend mixing this up and digging in right away upon serving.

Three Delicacies Dou Pi 3.8/5

A traditional Hubei snack, the Three Delicacies Dou Pi ($4.50/pc, $8.50/2 pcs), is an interesting dish made of different layers of ingredients.

The base was potato flour, egg, steamed glutinous rice, and toppings of minced meat, pork belly, and mushrooms. Overall, I just thought it was a bit too oily for my liking.

Han Kou Wanton 4.5/5

The freshly made daily Han Kou Wanton ($6.90) came in a bowl of 10 pieces and would be a good sharing option. The wanton skin was smooth, with a savoury meat centre.

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.


Cai Lin Ji (蔡林記)
Guoco Tower
#B2-26
1 Wallich Street
Singapore 078881
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Tap out from the train station and walk straight to destination. Journey time about 2 minutes. [Map]

Nong Geng Ji Hunan Cuisine (农耕记) @ VivoCity - Popular Hunan Restaurant Opens 2nd Outlet at VivoCity

Amidst the bustling F&B scene at VivoCity, the popular Hunan restaurant chain Nong Geng Ji (农耕记) makes its mark with its second outlet, following the success of its flagship at Collyer Quay. Curiosity led me to explore the vivid flavours of their Hunanese offerings.

Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone 4/5

Hunan's signature Xiao Chao Rou (小炒肉) gets a delightful twist at Nong Geng Ji with the Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone ($27.90). A fusion of sliced pork, baby abalones, and Hunan green peppers creates a mildly spicy ensemble. While the dish boasts a unique texture with crunchy fungi, I found myself yearning for more of the signature green pepper, a soulful element that seemed slightly lacking.

Stir-Fried Kampung Chicken with Camellia Oil 3.5/5

The Stir-Fried Kampung Chicken with Camellia Oil ($23.90) unfolds with tender chicken, crunchy black fungus, and potatoes. However, the disappointment lingers as the chicken pieces don't quite deliver on the meaty front.

Casserole Flavoured Smoked Bamboo Shoots 4.2/5

A star of the meal, the Casserole Flavoured Smoked Bamboo Shoots beckon for a bowl of rice. Their spicy kick might be intense for those averse to heat, but the flavourful and crunchy bamboo shoots leave a lasting impression.

Steamed Pork Ribs with Taro 3/5

Shifting gears to a non-spicy dimension, the Steamed Pork Ribs with Taro ($18.90) features soft and tender pork ribs atop a fragrant yam bed. It evokes the essence of steamed pork ribs dim sum, a comforting interlude in the spice-laden lineup.

Glutinous Rice Cake with Brown Sugar 3.8/5

Concluding our dinner is the Glutinous Rice Cake with Brown Sugar ($3.90). This trio of soft and spongy delights bathed in balanced brown sugar provides a sweet closure to the Hunanese feast.

Nong Geng Ji at Vivocity is a worthy addition to the Hunan culinary landscape in Singapore. Despite minor hiccups, the restaurant captures the essence of Hunanese cuisine, offering a flavourful journey that invites both spice enthusiasts and those seeking unique textures.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nong Geng Ji Hunan Cuisine (农耕记)
VivoCity
1 Harbourfront Walk
#01-51A
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 9082 0013
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am -10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to destiation. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

En Yakiniku @ Middle Road (Bugis) - First in Singapore Sake Tengoku

En Yakiniku, nestled in the heart of Middle Road, introduces a first-of-its-kind experience in Singapore - Sake Tengoku. This unique offering involves superior broth and sake being steamed with Ebi, Hotate, and Asari over charcoal in a special steamer, adding a distinctive touch to the traditional Japanese yakiniku experience.

En Sashimi 4.2/5

Embarking on our dinner experience, we delved into a couple of appetizers, starting with the En Sashimi ($32.40). A platter of fresh and generously cut Salmon, Maguro, Hamachi, Mekajiki, and Tako.

Foie Gras with Yam 3/5

Following the exquisite sashimi is the Foie Gras with Yam ($36). The pan-seared duck liver, resting atop a slice of yam, offered a decadent experience. However, the slightly sweet sauce somewhat obscured the nuanced creaminess of the foie gras.

Sake Tengoku 4.5/5

The pièce de résistance was the newly introduced Sake Tengoku ($68). Prawns, clams, and scallops were meticulously steamed over charcoal in a special sake and superior broth-infused steamer. Arranged in three layers, each tier unveiled a seafood symphony. The Japanese congee in the final layer, infused with the essence of seafood and sake, reached perfection when paired with a serving of wagyu shabu-shabu - a bowl of comforting and hearty porridge.

Zabuton

For the quintessential Japanese yakiniku experience, a variety of beef cuts graced our table. The cut of the day, Zabuton ($38.90), showcased a rich beefy flavour and a satisfying textural bite.

Temari Gyutan

The Temari Gyutan ($14.90) was a unique offering, presented with seasoned rice balls wrapped in thinly sliced wagyu beef tongue. Grilled over charcoal, this dish offered a delightful fusion of sushi and barbecue.

Negi Gyu Tan

To fully savour the tender beef tongue, the Negi Gyu Tan ($27.90), adorned with spring onions, provided a flavorful and aromatic option.

Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Striploin

For those seeking a more premium indulgence, the Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Striploin ($54.90) showcased top-quality marbling, delivering a distinct melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Chestnut-fed Duroc Pork Belly

Non-beef enthusiasts need not fret. The Chestnut-fed Duroc Pork Belly ($15.90) and Tiger Prawn ($22) offered equally gratifying options. The grilling process released fragrant aromas, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Tiger Prawn

En Yakiniku's meticulous attention to detail and innovative offerings make it a standout destination for those seeking a Japanese BBQ experience elevated by culinary creativity and premium cuts.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


En Yakiniku
Midland House
112 Middle Road
#01-00A
Singapore 188970
Tel: +65 62555744
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk down Victoria Street to Middle Road. Turn right onto Middle Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Queen Street to Middle Road. Cross the road and turn right onto Middle Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Kuroki Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant @ Paragon Shopping Centre - Unveiling Orchard Road’s Hidden Lunch Gem

Amidst Paragon's opulent retail and dining landscape, Kuroki Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant pleasantly surprised me with its affordable yet premium lunch sets starting from $35.

Kuroki sets itself apart by sourcing prized cuts of beef based on availability and prime freshness. The selection ranges from A5 Iwate Wagyu to Kumamoto Wagyu and Snow-Aged Karubi from Hokkaido, promising an elevated yakiniku experience.

Kuroki Tasting Set 4.2/5

Opting for the Kuroki Tasting Set ($35), I discovered a well-curated ensemble featuring Kurobuta pork belly, Kurobuta pork collar, and a choice between tontoro or chicken thigh. The set, designed for a hearty lunch, didn't compromise on the quality or portion of the meats. It included an appetiser, salad, chawanmushi, rice, soup, and a delightful dessert, creating a wholesome dining experience.

Kuroki Premium Set 4.5/5

For the ardent beef aficionados, the Kuroki Classic Set ($48) beckons with three cuts of wagyu beef, accompanied by appetisers, salad, chawanmushi, rice, soup, and dessert. To escalate the indulgence, the Kuroki Premium Set ($58) offers four cuts of Wagyu - Wagyu Sirloin, Wagyu Prime Karubi, Wagyu Ribeye Lip, and Wagyu Short Rib, providing a symphony of textures and flavours.

Wagyu Tongue 4.5/5

Kimchi Soup 3/5

To enhance our dining experience, we indulged in add-ons such as the Wagyu Tongue ($22). When grilled, it exhibited a delightful crunch, adding a unique texture to the meal. While rich and robust, the Kimchi Soup ($10) veered towards being too hearty for a drinkable soup, brimming with shredded meat and kimchi.

Wrapping up our lunch set, a scoop of ice cream sealed the meal on a sweet note. I opted for the earthy matcha flavour, while my dining partner savoured the delicate sea salt flavour.

In the heart of Orchard Road, Kuroki Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant stands out as a hidden gem, offering premium lunch sets at an unparalleled value. With a commitment to quality cuts, thoughtful sets, and add-ons for customisation, Kuroki invites diners to savour the essence of Japanese yakiniku without breaking the bank.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kuroki
Paragon Shopping Centre
290 Orchard Road
#05-03
Singapore
Tel: +65 6339 3383
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line), Orchard Road (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm
Set Lunches: 1130am - 230pm

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]