Seorae Jib @ Plaza Singapura - Unveils Singapore’s First 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal

Known for its expertly hay-smoked meats, Seorae Jib introduces a novel way to savour Korean barbecue with its 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal, also known as the “Flower Pork Belly”. I visited the Plaza Singapura outlet to experience this meticulous preparation that elevates the humble pork belly into something quite extraordinary.

The highlight here is undoubtedly the premium Canadian air-flown pork belly, painstakingly scored with over 100 precise knife cuts. During our visit, the chef presented the slab and demonstrated the intricate cutting technique, which transforms the meat into a mesh-like structure. This not only tenderises the pork but also allows heat to penetrate more evenly during grilling.

As the pork hits the grill, the cuts open up and curl slightly, forming a “flower” shape. The result is a beautifully caramelised exterior with crisp edges, while the interior remains juicy and succulent. Enjoying a piece on its own allows the natural sweetness of the pork fat to shine, complemented by a delicate smokiness from the grill. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying bite that showcases the quality of the meat and the precision behind its preparation.

We tried the 100 Knife Cuts Kkot BBQ Set 700g ($118, with 20% off from 1 May to 30 June 2026), which offers excellent value and variety. Alongside the signature pork belly, the set includes:

● 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeobsal
● 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Nuruk Moksal
● Galmaegisal (Original)
● Woosamgyeob
● Choice of Japchae, Mul Naengmyeon, or Bibim Naengmyeon
● Cheesy Gyeran Jjim
● Optional Jjigae (Kimchi, Sundubu or Doenjang) at $10

Subak Mocktail

In celebration of Parents’ Day from 1 May to 30 June 2026, diners can enjoy a complimentary Subak (watermelon) Mocktail (U.P. $17.90) in May when dining with mum and ordering the BBQ set. Simply snap a photo of feeding your mum, tag the restaurant on social media, and present it in-store for redemption. June continues the festivities with Father’s Day specials.

Japchae, Cheesy Gyeran Jjim

For our carb option, we went with the Japchae, featuring springy glass noodles tossed in a lightly sweet soy-based sauce with vegetables. It’s well-balanced and comforting, providing a pleasant contrast to the richness of the grilled meats.

The Cheesy Gyeran Jjim arrives piping hot and fluffy, almost soufflé-like, with a layer of melted cheese adding extra savouriness. It’s soft, airy and incredibly moreish — perfect for rounding out the meal.

To elevate the experience, Seorae Jib offers 10 different ways to enjoy the Kkot Samgyeopsal. From dipping it into house-made meljeot (anchovy sauce), wrapping it in lettuce with pungent leek salad, pairing it with marinated squid and seaweed, or even combining it with grilled tortilla and melted cheese — each variation brings out a different dimension of flavour and texture.

The Kkot Nuruk Moksal (pork collar) carries a slightly firmer bite with a deeper, savoury profile, while the Galmaegisal (pork skirt) is prized for its tenderness and rich flavour. The Woosamgyeob, thinly sliced beef belly, cooks quickly and delivers a luscious, melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Seorae Jib’s 100 Knife Cuts Kkot Samgyeopsal is more than just a gimmick — it’s a thoughtfully executed technique that genuinely enhances the texture and flavour of the pork. The interplay of crispy edges and a juicy interior, combined with multiple ways to enjoy it, makes for a dynamic and engaging Korean BBQ experience. With its value-for-money set and limited-time promotions, this is one experience that Korean barbecue enthusiasts would not want to miss.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


SEORAE JIB
Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road
#02-01
SIngapore 238839
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS, Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit D, E or F. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Shabu Days @ Bukit Panjang - Affordable Solo Shabu-Shabu Sets from S$14.90

Tucked within the bustling Kopitiam Food Hall at Hillion Mall, Shabu Days presents a personal shabu-shabu concept that is both comforting and convenient, ideal for a quick midday recharge or a fuss-free dinner. The concept of solo hotpot dining is executed with thoughtful precision here, offering well-balanced sets that feel both nourishing and accessible for everyday indulgence.

Starting from an approachable S$14.90, each set at Shabu Days is designed to deliver a complete and satisfying meal. Diners can choose from nine cut-to-order mains, spanning from classic options such as Chicken Thigh ($14.90), Pork Collar ($16.90) and Beef Brisket ($19.90) to more premium selections like Australian Wagyu ($29.90), Japanese A5 Wagyu ($39.90), and the Seafood Treasure Platter ($29.90). The variety ensures there is something for every palate and occasion.

Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll

Pork Collar

During our visit, we opted for the Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll and Pork Collar. Sliced upon order, the meats showcased beautiful colour and marbling, immediately hinting at their quality. The Japanese A5 Wagyu, in particular, was richly marbled, delivering a buttery tenderness and depth of flavour that melted effortlessly with each swish in the broth. The Pork Collar, on the other hand, offered a satisfying balance of lean meat and delicate fat, remaining juicy and flavourful after cooking.

Bonito Kombu Broth 4.2/5

Tangy Tomato Broth 4.2/5

Complementing the meats is a selection of nourishing broths, each bringing its own distinct character to the experience. The Bonito Kombu broth stood out with its clean, umami-rich profile, layered with the subtle sweetness of kombu and the smokiness of bonito. The Herbal Angelica broth offered a gentle, comforting herbal note, while the Tangy Tomato provided a light, refreshing acidity that brightened the meal. For those seeking bolder flavours, the Sukiyaki broth paired with a pasteurised egg delivers a sweet-savoury richness. In contrast, the Spicy Umami broth caters to those who prefer a more robust and punchy base.

Each set is accompanied by a thoughtfully assembled Yasai Garden Bowl, featuring a colourful medley of seasonal vegetables, including green and red coral lettuce, enoki and shimeji mushrooms, and carrot and pumpkin. This not only adds vibrancy to the meal but also balances the richness of the meats with freshness and texture. Diners can further customise their set with a choice of carbohydrates, Calrose white rice, ramen or udon alongside the "Three Treasures" of kinchaku, mini chikuwa and gyoza, rounding out the meal with additional variety.

A highlight of the Shabu Days experience is the signature DIY Egg Risotto (add $3.50). Using the remaining broth, diners can transform it into a comforting, risotto-style dish by adding rice, a pasteurised egg, and condiments. This interactive finale is both satisfying and resourceful, allowing the broth's flavours to culminate in a warm, hearty finish.

Overall, Shabu Days delivers a well-executed solo hotpot experience that strikes a fine balance between quality, value and convenience. With its curated sets, quality ingredients and comforting flavours, it is a concept that invites repeat visits, whether for a quick solo meal or a casual, satisfying indulgence.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shabu Days
Kopitiam Food Hall
Hillion Mall
17 Petir Road
#02-15-20
Singapore 678278
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Nearest MRT: Bukit Panjang (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bukit Panjang MRT station. Take Exit A2. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Xita Lao Tai Tai (西塔老太太) @ Bugis+ - Launches 4 Pax Feastive Feast

Suppose you enjoy tasty barbecue, hearty dishes, and the lively atmosphere of communal dining. In that case, Xita Lao Tai Tai Bugis+ is ready to welcome you for a season of feasting and gatherings this holiday season. Known for its Korean-influenced Clay Stove Barbecue grills, signature marinades, and charmingly nostalgic interior, Xita Lao Tai Tai has built a following in Singapore’s ever-evolving BBQ scene. It is also well worth joining their membership programme, as members get to enjoy special deals and attractive discounts.

Festive Set BBQ Platter

Their seasonal Festive Set is priced at $108 for members (usual price $151.80) and includes four types of BBQ meat: the Xita BBQ Meat Tower, pork belly, pineapple-glazed beef rib fingers, and secret-marinated chicken chop. It consists of a cold-dressed chicken appetiser, joyful sesame balls, and strawberry ice burst for dessert.

We also ordered some a la carte items to complement our experience. I was pleasantly surprised that the team helped grill all the meats for us, which made the experience relaxed, enjoyable, and completely fuss-free. We could focus on eating and chatting while the staff refilled our plates.

Banchan/Accompaniments, Drinks

Along with our meal, we were served a generous selection of accompaniments, including kimchi, fresh lettuce for wraps, potato salad, and a comforting pumpkin soup. We also enjoyed some refreshing iced slushies, which were perfect for cooling down between all the grilling and feasting.

The highlight of the Festive Feast has to be the Xita BBQ Meat Tower, dressed for the festivities with charming decorations and stacked generously with assorted cuts. Each cut is well-seasoned, tender, and neatly portioned for easy sharing.

Pineapple Glazed Beef Rib Fingers

The Pineapple Glazed Beef Rib fingers come with a tangy, lightly sweet glaze that helps tenderise the meat, and the natural richness of the beef pairs beautifully with these flavours. The grilled pineapple slices were a delightful treat as well.

Pork Belly

No barbecue meal feels complete without Pork Belly, and the slices here are deeply marinated, allowing the fat to render into a crisp outer layer with a soft, melty centre.

Pork Collar

The Pork Collar, which is not part of the Festive Feast but is a recommended add-on, is another excellent choice. It is slightly leaner than the belly yet still wonderfully succulent, and it grills beautifully over the claypot heat. Both cuts are the sort of crowd-pleasing staples that disappear quickly once the grilling begins.

Secret Marinated Chicken Chop

The Secret Marinated Chicken Chop is juicy and stays wonderfully tender on the grill, with a comforting flavour that makes it an easy crowd-pleaser at the table.

Golden Tofu

Cold Dressed Chicken

For a light side dish, golden tofu is satisfying yet straightforward, adding a pleasant contrast to richer meats. The Cold Dressed Chicken appetiser, part of the set, is served chilled and refreshing, offering a gentle, clean-tasting start before the grilled items begin to arrive.

Seafood Pancake

Golden Glutinous Rice Ball

The Seafood Pancake came out nice and crispy, but unfortunately, we found it a little too oily for our liking. The Golden Glutinous Rice Ball, on the other hand, was satisfyingly yummy and chewy, with a slight sweetness.

Clam Soup

The Clam Soup is light, clear, and subtly sweet from the clams. It helps cleanse the palate between bites and is also comforting to sip while waiting for the next round of grilling, especially amid all the smoke and warmth from the stove.

Joyful Sesame Balls

Strawberry Ice Burst

Two desserts are included in the festive set. The Joyful Sesame Balls are pleasantly crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a sesame filling. To conclude, the Strawberry Ice Burst is light, fruity and refreshing, making it ideal after a table full of smoky and savoury dishes. It is, however, on the sweeter side.

In conclusion, dining at Xita Lao Tai Tai Claypot Stove BBQ is lively and well-suited for gatherings. If you are looking for a fun place in town to celebrate with friends or simply enjoy a good BBQ with quality meats, Xita Lao Tai Tai is a wonderful option this season.

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.


Xita Lao Tai Tai (西塔老太太)
Bugis+
201 Victoria Street
#04-06
Singapore 188067
Tel: +65 6908 4181
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Victoria Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Beok Private Dining - Natural Flavors Through Korean Contemporary Cuisine

Singapore's private dining scene continues to thrive with inventive concepts, and one of the rising stars is Beok Private Dining. Launched in May 2023, Beok offers a unique perspective on contemporary Korean cuisine, infusing traditional elements with modern interpretations in a refined, intimate setting. I finally had the chance to pen down my experience from a visit sometime back when I indulged in their carefully curated Autumn menu.

Makgeolli Bread with Smoked Purple Sweet Potato Butter 4.2/5

The evening began on a promising note with Makgeolli Bread and Smoked Purple Sweet Potato Butter. The bread, soft with a pleasant chew and gentle rice fragrance from the makgeolli, was beautifully elevated by the subtly sweet and smoky butter. It was a warm, comforting introduction to the meal.

Salt-grilled Prawn 4/5 and Bingtteok 4.2/5

Next came a duo of small bites – the Salt-grilled Prawn and Bingtteok. The prawn was fresh and plump, paired with a Fuji apple and lime chojang jelly that delivered a bright medley of acidity and sweetness, teasing the palate with layers of texture. The Bingtteok, a buckwheat pancake topped with kombu and finely shredded white radish, was a lovely surprise. Earthy and umami-rich with a gentle bite, it played beautifully between savoury and refreshing.

Gam Endive Muchim 3/5

The following dish, Gam Endive Muchim, was probably the most restrained in flavour. Slightly bitter endive leaves were dressed in a date-anchovy sauce and topped with biltong and a jujube chip. The textures were interesting, but overall it leaned towards a clean, minimalist profile.

Haemul Tang 4.2/5

Things took a heartier turn with the Haemul Tang, a spicy seafood broth that arrived brimming with flavour. Half-dried mussels, flower crab, and butternut squash added depth and sweetness to the umami-rich broth. It was warm, soothing, and satisfying.

Perilla Noodle 4.5/5

A standout of the night was the Perilla Noodle. The hand-pulled buckwheat noodles were silky yet toothsome, swimming in a nutty, aromatic broth enriched with perilla oil. Garnished with cucumber, nuts, and a touch of jalapeño for a bit of heat, this dish was layered, fragrant, and completely moreish.

Sutbul Moksal 4.2/5

Sutbul Anchang 4.5/5

The centrepiece of the meal came next – grilled meats cooked over binchotan charcoal. First, the Sutbul Moksal, featuring Australia Bangalow sweet pork collar, was well marinated and charred just right, paired with sweet potato leaf jangajji for a tangy counterpoint. Then came the Sutbul Anchang, showcasing a marbled MB7/8 Tajima Wagyu outside skirt, grilled to a perfect medium rare. Juicy, tender, and full of umami, it was easily the highlight among the proteins. That said, the portions were rather petite – each diner only got a small tasting portion, which left us craving a bit more.

Mushroom Gondre Sotbap 4.2/5

Pickles and Soup

To round out the savouries, we had the Mushroom Gondre Sotbap – a comforting bowl of multigrain Korean rice infused with wild thistle and topped with autumn mushrooms. Earthy and nutty, it showcased the beauty of simplicity. A side of soup and house pickles helped cleanse the palate and tie everything together.

Bam & Bac 4/5

Dessert came in the form of Bam & Bac, a delicate and well-composed plate featuring firm yet smooth chestnut yanggaeng, sweet poached pear, a scoop of ice cream, and an artistic fallen leaves tuile. It was a sweet ending with finesse – not too rich, but well-balanced and satisfying.

Overall, Beok Private Dining offers a unique and thoughtful exploration of Korean cuisine beyond the usual fare. The dishes are artfully plated, flavourful, and well-curated, with an elegant progression from start to finish. While some plates felt a little restrained and a couple of portions modest, the overall experience was intimate, elevated, and reflective of the Chef's evolving interpretation of Korean flavours. It is a gem worth experiencing for anyone seeking modern Korean fare with soul.


Beok Private Dining
Farrer Road
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