Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) @ Punggol Coast Mall - New Outlet, 3 Exciting New Dished and Exclusive Merchandise

The iconic Taiwanese restaurant Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐), beloved for its artfully handmade Xiao Long Bao, has opened a brand-new outlet at Punggol Coast Mall. To mark this occasion, Din Tai Fung has unveiled three brand-new dishes, now available at all outlets across Singapore. Available for dine-in, takeaway and delivery via Deliveroo, Foodpanda and GrabFood.

Adding an extra touch of excitement, the Punggol Coast branch is the first in Singapore to carry Din Tai Fung's exclusive retail merchandise, specially imported from Taiwan. Fans can now bring home charming collectables like the Din Tai Fung Chopsticks 平安筷, Mascot Plush Toys 包仔娃娃, Enamel Pins 微章 and more, perfect for gifting or as a souvenir for loyal diners.

Noodle with Crispy Wanton in Spicy Sauce 3/5

The new Noodle with Crispy Wanton in Spicy Sauce ($15.30) is tossed in a bold, spicy sauce and topped with crispy wantons. The noodles are springy and cooked to the ideal bite. However, we found the sauce to be a bit milder than expected, lacking the robust, aromatic heat that we had hoped for. The wantons add a textural crunch, but their petite size leaves more to be desired. It's a decent dish, but it could be more impactful in terms of flavour.

Black Sesame Mochi Xiao Long Bao 2.8/5

We were especially eager to try this dessert twist on Din Tai Fung's famous Xiao Long Bao. The Black Sesame Mochi Xiao Long Bao ($25.60 for 6 pc) is filled with fragrant, nutty black sesame and mochi. While the filling is aromatic and indulgent, the thick skin makes it rather challenging to chew. We recommend eating it immediately while piping hot, which helps slightly with texture, but be cautious as the filling can be scalding. It's a fun concept, but the execution didn't quite meet our expectations.

Steamed Chinese Style Layered Cake with Chocolate Dipping Sauce 3/5

This East-meets-West dessert combines a classic Chinese Steamed Layered Cake ($5.80/2pcs) with a side of Chocolate Dipping Sauce ($3, currently $2 from 1 May to 30 June). The cake itself has a unique texture, falling somewhere between a Chinese sponge cake and fluffy bread, with a subtle sweetness. When paired with the not-too-sweet chocolate sauce, it creates a comforting and unexpected fusion of flavours. It's a fun dessert to share, especially for those curious to try something different.

Oriental Salad 4/5

Pork Xiao Long Bao 3.8/5

Two staples we can't skip at Din Tai Fung are the Oriental Salad ($6) and Pork Xiao Long Bao ($12.80 for 10 pieces). The Oriental Salad is refreshing and crunchy, lightly tossed in a tangy sesame dressing that awakens the palate, always the perfect starter. As for the Pork Xiao Long Bao, it's what Din Tai Fung is famous for, with each dumpling meticulously pleated, filled with a juicy pork filling and a burst of flavourful broth. While the skin was slightly thicker than usual on our visit, it remains a comforting classic that satisfies every time.

Prawn Pancake 4/5

If you haven't tried the Prawn Pancake ($11.80), you're missing out. This crispy, golden delight is packed with chunky prawn paste and pan-fried to perfection. It's crunchy on the outside, succulent inside and incredibly addictive.

Shrimp Fried Rice 4/5

Pork Chop Fried Rice 4/5

Din Tai Fung's fried rice consistently meets your expectations, whether it's the Shrimp Fried Rice ($15) or the Pork Chop Fried Rice ($14.30); it never disappoints. Both versions feature fluffy, fragrant egg fried rice. The Shrimp Fried Rice is generously topped with fresh, bouncy shrimp, while the Pork Chop Fried Rice comes with a well-seasoned pork chop that's juicy and tender. Either option delivers on flavour and comfort, making them our top picks for a hearty main.

Located in the brand-new Punggol Coast Mall, this Din Tai Fung outlet offers a bright and spacious dining environment that’s perfect for a relaxing meal. Drop by whether you’re here to check out their newest dishes or stock up on adorable Din Tai Fung merch.

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


Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
Punggol Coast Mall
88 Punggol Way
#01-126/127
Singapore 829913
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Nearest MRT: Punggol Coast (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sun: 11am - 915pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Punggol Coast MRT station. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Atic @ Citadines Connect City Centre Singapore - The Rooftop Restaurant Reopens with a New Contemporary Southeast Asian Cuisine

The rooftop restaurant at Citadines Connect City Centre Singapore has recently reopened as Atic, offering a menu of contemporary Southeast Asian cuisine. Helmed by Chef Newein Dolph Toolseram, whose multicultural roots span Burmese, Chinese, Dutch, Thai, and Peranakan-Hokkien heritage, Atic presents a vibrant reflection of the region's rich culinary traditions — reimagined with modernity and Chef Newein's distinctive personal touch.

Peperoncino Egg Noodles with seared Barramundi 3.8/5

As a start, Atic opens exclusively for weekday lunch, offering a well-priced menu featuring sharing sides and customisable lunch sets. The set allows diners to mix and match a base with their preferred protein, creating a satisfying and personalised experience. There are four base options to choose from. The Peperoncino Egg Noodles were pleasing with a springy texture, and the flavour profile was reminiscent of local soy sauce wanton noodles — savoury and comforting.

Roti John with Ribeye 3/5

Nasi Kuning with Signature Pork Chop Bakar 4/5

The Roti John, which uses Hainanese buns layered with a spiced omelette, had a lovely, sweet, bready aroma. However, the buns leaned too soft and doughy for my liking, lacking the airy, light texture one might expect. On the other hand, the Turmeric Basmati Rice, or Nasi Kuning, stood out with its fluffiness and aromatic spices, making it my preferred base for its well-balanced and comforting qualities. For something lighter, there's also the option of a mesclun salad.

Brick Chicken 4.5/5

The Brick Chicken was a clear winner among the proteins — delightfully crispy skin enveloping tender, succulent meat. The Signature Pork Chop Bakar fared equally well. Inspired by Chef Newein's hometown, the pork is marinated in spices and grilled using traditional Malay-style techniques, resulting in flavours that evoke the smoky taste of satay. The Ribeye was simply seasoned and grilled to the right doneness, allowing its natural beefy flavour to take centre stage.

Fried Oyster Mushrooms 3.8/5

While I found the Fried Oyster Mushrooms an interesting protein option, their deep-fried nature and addictive crunch made them feel more like a side dish than a main dish.

Rojak 4.5/5

On the side menu, the Rojak ($13.90) was a refreshing and vibrant take on the traditional dish. Pomelo, cubed cucumber, pineapple, and turnip were tossed in a citrusy shrimp paste, paired with mesclun leaves and mixed herbs, and finished with croutons in place of the usual you tiao for the textural crunch.

Chicken Wings 4/5

Spiced Calamari 2/5

The Chicken Wings ($13.90) were their rendition of shrimp paste chicken, featuring juicy and tender meat beneath a thin, crisp, umami-packed crust, complemented by their housemade sambal. The Spiced Calamari ($13.90) came with a delicious roasted masala crust, but the calamari rings were somewhat bland, falling short in flavour.

Grilled Hispi Cabbage 4/5

The Grilled Hispi Cabbage ($11.90) was deeply savoury, enriched by a bonito emulsion and shio kombu, though I found myself wishing for a hint of citrus to lift and balance the umami.

Lunch set menu starts from $17.90+, available Monday to Friday, 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM.

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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Atic
Citadines Connect City Centre Singapore
182 Clemenceau Ave
Singapore 239923
Tel: +65 8087 1182
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm
(Closed on Sat-Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Penang Road. Cross the road. Turn right and walk to Penang Lane. Turn left onto the Penang Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Lao Ma Ban Mian (老媽拌麵) @ West Mall - Tainan’s Iconic Sun-Dried Guan Miao Noodles Lands in Singapore at West Mall

Lao Ma Ban Mian (老媽拌麵), a beloved noodle brand from Tainan, Taiwan, has made its debut in Singapore with its first outlet at West Mall, opening on 15 April 2025. Known for its iconic sun-dried Guan Miao noodles (关庙面) crafted using traditional methods, the brand brings with it the distinct chewiness and aroma that have made it a staple in Taiwanese households. The noodles are available in two variations — wavy Guan Miao noodles that are perfect for soaking up bold sauces and soups, and traditional flat Guan Miao noodles that strike a delightful balance between smoothness and bite.

Dried Scallop Huadiao Chicken Noodles Soup (干贝花雕鸡汤面) 4.5/5

I tried the Dried Scallop Huadiao Chicken Noodles Soup ($16.50), a hearty bowl packed with robust flavours to kick off the meal. It featured tender, chunky chicken pieces, vegetables, mushrooms, and baby corn, all nestled in a comforting broth made by slow-simmering whole hens, Jinhua ham, and scallops. The addition of aromatic Huadiao wine elevated the overall profile, while the traditional Guan Miao noodles added a lovely, silky texture. It was a warm, soothing bowl that felt like a hug in noodle form.

Chilli Oil Preserved Egg & Meat Sauce Noodles (红油皮蛋肉酱面) 4.5/5

Next up was the Chilli Oil Preserved Egg & Meat Sauce Noodles ($12.50), a crowd-pleaser that brought together bold and complex flavours. The creamy, rich century egg combined with fragrant chilli oil and savoury minced meat sauce to create a beautifully umami-rich dish. The wavy Guan Miao noodles held the sauce effortlessly, allowing each bite to deliver a delightful explosion of flavour and texture.

Garlic Fermented Soy Pork Chop Noodles (蒜香豆乳猪扒拌面) 4.2/5

Garlic Fermented Soy Chicken Chop Noodles (蒜香豆乳猪扒拌面) 4.2/5

For those craving something closer to Taiwanese street food, the Garlic Fermented Soy Pork Chop Noodles ($15.50) and Garlic Fermented Soy Chicken Chop Noodles ($15.50) offered a satisfying alternative. The meats were marinated for over 24 hours in garlic and fermented tofu, imparting a deeply savoury and umami flavour. Between the two, I personally preferred the chicken chop for its tenderness and juiciness, though both versions complemented the dry-style Guan Miao noodles well.

Blanched Vegetables with Fried Shallots 古早味油葱烫青菜 3/5

French Beans with Sesame Sauce 胡麻酱四季豆 3/5

I sampled a couple of sides to accompany the main dishes. The Blanched Vegetables with Fried Shallots ($4.50) and the French Beans with Sesame Sauce ($4) were light, simple additions. While they didn't particularly stand out, they served their role as something to munch on in between the richer mains.

Braised Pig's Trotter 卤猪脚 3/5

Braised Beef Brisket 卤牛腩 4/5

Braised Bai-Ye Tofu 百页豆腐 3/5

There's also a selection of braised items, including Braised Pig's Trotter ($9), Braised Beef Brisket ($7), and Braised Bai-Ye Tofu ($4.50). The Braised Beef Brisket stood out the most of the trio — it was fork-tender and well-infused with the savoury braising sauce. The pig's trotter had a firmer, more gelatinous texture, catering to those who enjoy the collagen-rich chewiness. As for the Bai-Ye tofu, which is firmer and more rubbery like Tian Bu La, it may appeal to Taiwanese palates, though I prefer tofu with a softer texture and more pronounced soybean flavour.

Taiwanese Spicy Mala Hot Pot Rice 台式麻辣火锅饭 3.8/5

Another interesting addition to the menu was the Taiwanese Spicy Mala Hot Pot Rice ($17.50), which came with a generous mix of ingredients such as meat, prawn balls, cheese fishcake, fish dumplings, vegetables, and mushrooms. While it was hearty and packed with variety, the broth didn't quite live up to its "mala" name — it lacked the numbing spice and aromatic heat typically associated with mala dishes. It leaned more towards a sha cha (沙茶) flavour, which might leave mala lovers wanting more.

Showa Pudding 昭和布丁 4/5

To end the meal on a sweet note, we had the Showa Pudding. Smooth, creamy, and comforting, it was topped with chewy pearls for a delightful contrast in texture, making it a lovely finale to the meal.

As part of its grand opening celebration, Lao Ma Ban Mian is offering an exclusive Grand Opening Promotion from 15 to 29 April 2025. Diners can enjoy the signature Chilli Oil Preserved Egg & Meat Sauce Noodles at a special price of just $5, down from the usual $12.50. On top of that, customers can sign up for a free membership programme, which offers a lifetime 10% discount on all menu items and lets diners earn points with every purchase. With its rich heritage, comforting flavours, and thoughtful promotions, Lao Ma Ban Mian brings a truly authentic Taiwanese noodle experience to the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Lao Ma Bàn Mian (老媽拌麵)
West Mall
1 Bukit Batok Central
#B1-K10/K23
Singapore 658713
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Nearest MRT: Bukit Batok (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 9pm

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

Nomada @ Keong Saik - Where Tradition Meets Bold Perspective, Where Every Flavour Tells A Story

A recent addition to the lively Keong Saik restaurant scene, Nómada has quickly become a buzzworthy spot, even drawing a full house on a weekday evening when we visited. Chef Gonzalo Landin, formerly of Binomio and Set of Six, brings his global culinary expertise to the table, serving Spanish cuisine with a modern, innovative twist.

The décor at Nómada showcases rustic Spanish charm with a sleek, contemporary elegance, featuring warm lighting and earthy tones. For private events, there's also a curtained-off area towards the back of the restaurant for a more intimate setting.

Upon reviewing the menu, it's clear that Chef Landin doesn't shy away from incorporating adventurous ingredients, making Nómada an exciting choice even for the seasoned foodie. If you're game to try something a little different, there's chicken liver, ox tongue and even pig ears on the menu! But don't worry if that's not for you — the à la carte format ensures everyone can choose something you'll enjoy.

Homemade Flatbread with Za’atar 4/5

We started our dinner with the Homemade Flatbread with Za'atar ($16), a starter featuring Za'atar — a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend. This aromatic mix typically combines dried oregano, thyme, sumac, and toasted sesame seeds. The flatbread was soft and pillowy, topped with goat cheese and rocket.

Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada 3/5

Next, we were served Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada (2pcs, $16), which had a vibrant presentation thanks to the sobrasada. This soft spread, made from cured pork sausage and seasoned with paprika and other spices, brings a smoky flavour to the dish. However, the combination of the spicy sobrasada and the oyster didn't particularly complement each other.

Squids, Lemon & Parsley Sauce with Squid Ink Emulsion 4.2/5

I much preferred the Squid with Lemon & Parsley Sauce and Squid Ink Emulsion ($26), where the lemon and parsley sauce really stood out. Zesty and fresh, it was so delicious that I found myself going back for more. The squid itself was sufficiently tender with a slight chewiness, the subtle taste of the squid allowing the brightness of the sauce to shine through.

Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower 4/5

The Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower ($38) was a comforting dish that delivered hearty, savoury flavours. The short ribs were cooked very well, with a fork-tender texture. However, the dish gets a bit heavy and slightly oily after a while, so it's best to share it.

Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage 4.5/5

Between the beef and pork dishes we tried, we unanimously agreed that the Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage ($38) was our preferred choice. The pork chop was juicy and tender, with a hint of pink in the centre. We also loved the apple cider gel's subtle sweetness and tanginess, which added a lovely balance to the taste of the pork. The apple cider gel is also something interesting and different from the apple sauce you usually get with pork chops.

Iberico Pluma Rice 4.8/5

I was very impressed with the Iberico Pluma Rice ($68), a paella dish served in a large, shallow pan. The rice was rich and savoury, having absorbed the full depth of the broth and seasonings. The texture of the rice was slightly chewy, offering a substantial mouthfeel and delightfully crispy bits at the bottom and sides. Cooked with Iberico Pluma, a tender cut of pork, this dish satisfied my paella cravings.

Custard & Nutmeg Tart with Salted Caramel Ice Cream 4/5

At first glance, I mistook this for a cheesecake, and perhaps it was inspired by the cheesecake and given a little twist. The Custard & Nutmeg Tart, paired with Salted Caramel Ice Cream ($16), featured a velvety custard filling, subtly spiced with nutmeg, whilst the salted caramel ice cream lent this dessert a sweet and salty creaminess.

Nómada's menu is different from traditional Spanish restaurants, with a style sure to appeal to those who enjoy bold, intense flavours. The restaurant features an open-concept kitchen, allowing diners to watch the chefs at work, though it also means you might leave with a slight smokiness on your clothes.

Penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nomada
1 Keong Saik Road
#01-05
Singapore 089109
Tel: +65 8209 7809
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (DT, EW, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sat: 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Keong Saik Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Duomo Ristorante @ CHIJMES - Italian Classics, Hearty Italian Flavours, Charming Ambience

Recently opened in January 2024, Duomo Ristorante is an aptly named culinary gem nestled within the beautiful grounds of CHIJMES. The menu offers Italian classics made with fresh ingredients from both the Northern and Southern regions, showcasing the hearty flavours of Italian cuisine.

There is a cosy indoor dining area, but the outdoor terrace is particularly delightful, especially on cool evenings. Here, guests can fully immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere while enjoying views of the picturesque CHIJMES hall. The outdoor terrace is thoughtfully accented with Italian decorative touches, creating a charming and inviting ambience that sets the backdrop for a relaxing dining experience.

Bruschetta 4.2/5

We started with a variety of antipasti, the first being a delightful Bruschetta ($21). This classic Italian starter showcased simplicity at its finest. Each slice of rustic bread was perfectly toasted and topped with heirloom Sicilian pizzutello tomatoes and Pecorino cheese shavings. The juicy sweetness of the tomatoes made each bite very enjoyable!

Wagy Carpaccio 4.2/5

The Wagyu Carpaccio ($28) is also delicious. Delicate slivers of wagyu are elevated with a house-made sauce of truffle cream, butter, and parmesan. To add a refreshing contrast, the dish is generously garnished with rocket leaves, which provide a crisp freshness to balance the richness of the wagyu and the creamy sauce.

Seafood Cioppino 4.5/5

For something hearty, opt for their Seafood Cioppino ($28). The base of the Seafood Cioppino is a rich tomato broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices and simmered to perfection. The broth provides a comforting warmth that sets the stage for the seafood medley of calamari, clams, and prawns — a harmonious ensemble that reflects the essence of coastal Italian cuisine.

Bella Duomo 4.2/5

Whilst they are not particularly a pizza speciality restaurant, the pizza we tried here was pretty good! We had the Bella Duomo ($36), where the star of the show is the rich and savoury mortadella cold cut, which comes straight from Bologna. Accompanying it are crunchy pistachios, adding a delightful texture and nutty flavour, as well as creamy stracciatella cheese generously spread across the pizza.

Tagliolini Gamberi & Lemon 4.5/5

Next up were two plates of pasta, both of which I thoroughly relished and savoured. The Tagliolini Gamberi & Lemon ($38) is a dish inspired by the chef's childhood and beautifully captures the essence of an Italian summer with its bright and zesty flavours. Some of my dining companions found it slightly too tangy, but I enjoyed the refreshing acidity imparted by the lemons and capers. Regarding flavour profile, this dish stands out as one of the more distinctive pastas I've had in Singapore. If you opt for this pasta, I recommend mixing it thoroughly with the sauce right away to prevent clumping and to ensure every bite is as delightful as the last.

Gnocchi Funghi & Salsiccia 4.5/5

The Gnocchi Funghi & Salsiccia ($28) is another comforting dish that satisfies my palate. The gnocchi, mushrooms, and Italian sausage are enveloped in a luxurious, savoury sauce. The sausage is slow-cooked with a medley of onions, celery, and white wine, infusing the dish with hearty flavours that linger on the taste buds.

Polipo Arrosto 3.8/5

Polipo Arrosto ($38) celebrates the ocean's bounty with grilled octopus, which offers a slightly crispy exterior with a smoky char while maintaining a firm but not rubbery texture. Accompanying the octopus is a citrusy sauce infused with diced tomatoes and olives, adding a vibrant and tangy contrast to the seafood. Silky smooth potato and rocket salad accompany the dish.

Nodino di Maiale 3.8/5

The Nodino di Maiale ($38) features a pork chop marinated for 24 hours in a fragrant blend of rosemary and thyme and grilled to perfection. It is complemented by a smooth house-made apple mustard that adds a hint of sweetness. The flavours are good, but our pork cut was pretty lean, and I would have preferred the meat to be juicier.

Duomo Tiramisu 4/5

For dessert, the Duomo Tiramisu ($16) is a crowd pleaser. Layers of delicate ladyfinger biscuits soaked in espresso impart a robust coffee flavour. Sandwiched between these espresso-soaked layers is a velvety mascarpone cream. The dessert is elegantly finished with a dusting of cocoa powder, balancing the sweetness with a hint of bittersweet cocoa notes. For inclusivity, the Tiramisu is served alcohol-free.

Panna Cotta Alla Vaniglia 3.5/5

Another option is the Panna Cotta Alla Vaniglia, a creamy and light dessert made from a traditional recipe without gelatin. It's infused with vanilla bean specks and served with some fruits and nuts.

Duomo Ristorante presents a delightful array of dishes to satisfy diverse tastes, complemented by refreshing drinks and a great ambience perfect for enjoying time with loved ones and friends. Immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita whilst savouring a slice of Italy in this cheerful communal dining setting!

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Duomo Ristorante
CHIJMES
30 Victoria Street
#01-32
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 89114874
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat: 12pm - 11pm
Sun: 12pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut across Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road, cross the road to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk southwards towards Victoria Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and Victoria Road, cross the junction to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]