LingZhi Vegetarian @ Liat Towers - A Fresh Take on Vegetarian Dining: Innovative Dishes Beyond Mock Meats

LingZhi Vegetarian by TungLok Group has been around since 1991 and is well-regarded in the vegetarian community for its quality dishes. It now welcomes its new Executive Chef, Michael Huang, who brings over 17 years of culinary experience.

Located on the fifth floor of Liat Towers, the restaurant offers both an open dining area and private rooms for various occasions. Chef Huang has introduced a refreshed lineup of dishes focused on health and environmental sustainability, using quality seasonal ingredients. His roots in traditional Chinese flavours also shine through.

Honey Potato with Osmanthus Flower 3.5/5

We began with the Honey Potato with Osmanthus Flower ($16.80), a chilled pyramid of soft sweet potato cubes glazed in a fragrant osmanthus syrup. It leaned on the sweeter side for me, though my dining companion enjoyed it.

King Oyster Mushroom and Assorted Fungus in Sichuan Pepper Soup 4.2/5

As a mushroom lover, the comforting King Oyster Mushroom and Assorted Fungus in Sichuan Pepper Soup ($29.80) was right up my alley. Served in a comforting Sichuan pepper broth, it featured a generous medley of mushrooms with crunchy celtuce for texture. Unlike the fiery broth one might expect, this had a gentle heat with a warm numbing kick. I wished it came with sweet potato noodles or vermicelli to soak up the flavourful soup!

Crispy Plant-Based Eel in Gong Bao Glaze 4/5

The Crispy Plant-Based Eel in Gong Bao Glaze ($22.80) is made with thinly sliced shiitake mushrooms fried to a crisp and paired with cashews. While the “eel” could have been slightly meatier in texture, it was crunchy, light and not oily. The glaze carried a mild sweetness and a hint of heat.

Pan-fried Stuffed Morel Mushroom with ‘San Bei’ Sauce 4.2/5

The Pan-fried Stuffed Morel Mushroom with ‘San Bei’ Sauce ($38.80) was another creative standout. Earthy morels are stuffed, pan-fried, and served over crunchy asparagus, all coated in a sweet-savoury San Bei sauce.

Spaghetti with Vegetarian Bolognese 3.8/5

I wasn’t expecting much from the Spaghetti with Vegetarian Bolognese ($24), but it surprised us with its balanced mix of tomatoes and mushrooms. It wasn’t as tomato-forward or as sweet as the usual versions.

These dishes and more are available a la carte or as set menus for groups of various sizes. While the prices lean higher, we appreciated the thoughtful creativity that sets the restaurant apart from more common vegetarian offerings, which often rely heavily on mock meats. Service was also exceptionally warm and attentive.

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.


LingZhi Vegetarian
Liat Towers
541 Orchard Road
#05-01
Singapore 238881
Tel: +65 6734 3788
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT Station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Wheelock Place. Go to the first floor. Exit Wheelock Place, turn left and walk down Orchard Road. Walk to destinaton. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Il Toro Woodfire Grill @ Gemmill Lane - A Celebration of Woodfire Showcases Fire-Driven Italian-Australian Flavours

IL TORO Woodfire Grill at Gemmill Lane is a brand new concept by Chef Drew Nocente, the same chef-owner behind Cenzo and Chicco Pasta Bar. Drawing inspiration from the Italian tradition of grigliata and shaped by the Australian spirit, the restaurant places fire at the core of its menu. Expect bold flavours, whole cuts of meat, and a warm sense of hospitality, all anchored by the primal draw of woodfire cooking.

Focaccia, Beef Fat Candle 4/5

A playful start to the meal, the Focaccia ($8) comes accompanied by a candle made from beef fat. As it melts, the rendered fat becomes a savoury spread. The Focaccia itself is grilled for a crisp exterior, making this both fun in concept and enjoyable in flavour.

Foie Gras, Fig & Pistachio 4/5

The Foie Gras ($8/pc) is rich and creamy, paired thoughtfully with sweet fig and crunchy pistachio. The combination provides a balance of sweetness and nuttiness, lifting the foie gras without overwhelming it.

Coffin Bay Oysters, Yuzu Koshu & Smoked Beef Fat 4/5

The Coffin Bay Oysters ($6/pc) offer clean brininess with a bright citrus touch from yuzu koshu. The smoked beef fat adds depth, resulting in a finish that is both vibrant and savoury.

Sea Bream, Amalfi Lemon, Bone Reduction and Caviar 3.8/5

The Sea Bream ($22) is served in a ceviche style with Amalfi lemon and bone reduction, topped with caviar. While well assembled, the flavours could be bolder to better highlight the fish's natural sweetness.

Iberico Pork Belly & Sausage Skewer 3.8/5

The Iberico Pork Belly & Sausage Skewer ($8/pc) is hearty and satisfying, and many tables seemed to be ordering it. Although nicely grilled, the seasoning could be punchier to fully showcase the meat's richness.

Tiger Prawns, Garlic Chilli 4/5

The Tiger Prawns ($10/pc) are sweet and smoky from the grill. The garlic chilli brings bold flavour and enhances the prawn's natural sweetness, giving a rich, robust kick.

Octopus, Nduja, Burnt Chive Butter & Miso Corn 4.2/5

The Octopus ($36) is well handled, tender, and has a pleasant bite. The pairing of nduja and burnt chive butter adds layers of umami and spice. The side of miso corn is notably excellent, sweet, juicy, and highly addictive.

Blackmore Wagyu MS9+ Tri Tip 4.2/5

The Blackmore Wagyu MS9+ Tri Tip ($78, 200g) is exclusive to IL TORO and available daily in limited quantities. While tri tip is naturally leaner, it is cooked beautifully here, resulting in tender, flavourful meat with the signature woodfire aroma.

Baby Potatoes, Hot Honey & Ricotta 4.5/5

A standout side, the Baby Potatoes ($12) are tossed in hot honey and served on creamy ricotta. Sweet, savoury and texturally satisfying. This is the kind of side you'll want seconds of.

Mint Slice Al Fuoco 4/5

For dessert, the Mint Slice Al Fuoco ($16) features mint semifreddo, smoked chocolate ganache and meringue. The tableside brûlée of the meringue adds theatre and creates a pleasing caramelised crunch to finish.

Overall, IL TORO delivers a bold, fire-forward dining experience that showcases Chef Drew's strong understanding of balance, produce and smoky depth. The woodfire element is consistent and intentional, from starters to dessert. A welcome addition to Gemmill Lane for those who appreciate grilled meats and Italian-Australian conviviality.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Il Toro Woodfire Grill
18 Gemmill Lane
Singapore 069255
Tel: +65 82591021
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

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

Direction:
Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Rang Mahal Restaurant & Bar @ Naumi Hotel Singapore - Relocate and Rebrand to Its Root as A Family-Run Restaurant

Rang Mahal has found a new home at Naumi Hotel Singapore, now established as Rang Mahal Restaurant & Bar. This marks an evolution for the brand after a remarkable 54-year culinary journey, from its beginnings as a family-run restaurant at the Imperial Hotel to its long-standing presence as a modern Indian fine dining destination at Pan Pacific Singapore from 2000 to 2025. The refreshed concept brings together the best of North, South, and coastal Indian cuisines, while also spotlighting some of the family recipes that add a personal touch to the dining experience.

Khakra & Chutney Dips 5/5

Appetisers set the tone beautifully, offering bold flavours wrapped in comfort and nostalgia. A much more exciting alternative to the traditional papadum, the Khakra & Chutney Dips ($10) features crisp Gujarati-style crackers made with wholemeal flour and aromatic spices, paired with three homemade chutneys — tangy mint, sweet mango, and spiced mustard yoghurt. Nutty and spice-forward, the trio of chutneys enriched every bite with a punch of flavours.

Maa's Chilli Cheese Pakoras 4.5/5

A family recipe from the mother of the Director and second-generation owner, Maa's Chilli Cheese Pakoras ($18) features green chillies stuffed with cheddar and cream cheese, battered in spiced gram flour, then fried to golden perfection. The creamy, mildly sweet cheese filling mellowed the heat of the chilli, balanced by a refreshing mint-beetroot sauce.

Arshiya's Chowpatty Slider 3.5/5

Arshiya's Chowpatty Slider ($20), named after the founder's daughter in law and inspired by Mumbai's Chowpatty Beach, is a nostalgic street snack of spiced potato patties with onions, chilli powder, chaat masala, and cumin, sandwiched in buttery buns with tamarind and coriander spreads. The sweet-tangy tamarind imparted an unexpected, but welcoming tang to the slider.

Calcutta Pani Puri 4/5

Another quintessential Indian street food, Calcutta Pani Puri ($16), arrived as crispy puris that we had the joy to fill the golden shells ourselves with seasoned potatoes and tamarind-mint water before popping them into our mouths.

Non-Vegetarian Grill Platter 4.5/5

The Mains range from Grill Platters, Curries and Biryani. The Non-Vegetarian Grill Platter ($52) came sizzling with Tandoori Chicken Tikka, Tiger Prawns, and Lamb Seekh Kebab. The meats were well-marinated and tender, flavourful without being overly salted. The Lamb Seekh Kebab, in particular, stood out for its balance of spice and succulence, offering a well-rounded bite.

Kokan Fish Curry 4.5/5

For a taste of coastal Maharashtrian cuisine, the Kokan Fish Curry ($28) was a highlight, featuring moist seabass simmered in a coconut-based Konkani masala, with kokum adding a gentle tang. While the curry was well-balanced, a slightly stronger dose of kokum would have enhanced the dish's brightness.

Old Delhi Butter Chicken 3.5/5

A perennial favourite, the Old Delhi Butter Chicken ($30) featured tandoor-roasted chicken simmered in a rich tomato and fenugreek gravy, finished with cream. While the chicken was perfectly tender, the sauce leaned a touch too creamy and sweet, as I would prefer it to be more savoury.

Hyderabadi Lamb Biryani 3.5/5

Garlic Naan 3/5

The Hyderabadi Lamb Biryani ($30) was fragrant and flavourful, with the rice beautifully cooked and each grain distinct. However, some lamb pieces were slightly dry. The dish paired wonderfully with Burani Raita ($16), a yoghurt spiked with dehydrated garlic, which also complemented the Garlic Naan ($16); however, the naan could be fluffier.

Nani's Lychee Kulfi 5/5

Dessert was Nani's Lychee Kulfi ($16). The homemade kulfi, cut into cubes and laced with bits of lychee for added texture, had well-balanced sweetness and a lingering lychee aroma. Rang Mahal is indeed a brand that has truly stood the test of time.

Its new location and refreshed concept have opened the doors to a broader audience, allowing more diners to experience its enduring charm and refined Indian cuisine. Reservations are recommended via https://www.rangmahal.com.sg/

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.


Rang Mahal Restaurant & Bar
Naumi Hotel Singapore
Level 1
41 Seah Street
Singapore 188396
Tel: +65 9667 4244
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sun: 12pm - 230pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road. Cross the road. Walk down North Bridge Road towards Seah Street. Turn right onto Seah Street. Walk down Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Cross the road. Turn right and walk down Beach Road. Turn left onto Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

GUPSHUP @ The Serangoon House - The Great Indian Feast, 1-for-1 Promotion

GUPSHUP at The Serangoon House presents the vibrant, diverse flavours of Indian cuisine, elevated with contemporary finesse, under the guidance of Chef Jolly, a former MasterChef India judge and an award-winning culinary personality with over 25 years of global experience. The restaurant is tucked discreetly in the basement of The Serangoon House. Its intimate space, designed in Indian colonial style, carries a sense of grandeur with a touch of mystery. Chef Jolly's curation of regional dishes is wholesome, and some of which may be unfamiliar to the local palate. It is best experienced through the newly launched The Great Indian Feast, an unlimited à la carte dining journey spanning India's rich culinary tapestry.

Lotus Papdi Chaat 3.5/5

The Feast features 13 dishes, beginning with three appetisers: Pani Poori, Bhindi Amchur, and Lotus Papdi Chaat. The Pani Poori was an absolute standout, with paper-thin semolina shells filled with crushed potato and chickpeas. Served alongside were tamarind and spicy mint shots, which were sharp and tart, making each mouthful a punchy delight. The Lotus Papdi Chaat delivered a creamier contrast with yoghurt, pomegranate-mint sauce, and the satisfying crunch of lotus crisps.

Bhindi Amchur 3/5

The Bhindi Amchur are okra fries, dusted with chickpea flour, cumin, and mango powder, leaning more towards crisp finger food than juicy bites, but made for moreish nibbles.

Amritsari Chole 4.5/5

Tandoori Kulcha 4/5

From the Small Plates, the signature Amritsari Chole and Tandoori Kulcha stood out. The curried chickpeas were deeply spiced and hearty, well stewed to tender and soft, while the kulcha, stuffed with spiced potatoes, coriander, lime, and dried pomegranate seeds, was delicious even on its own.

Chicken Chettinad Curry & Parotta 4/5

Chettinad cuisine is renowned for its rich, chilli-driven gravies, and the Chicken Chettinad Curry exemplifies South India's bold, spice-laden profile. The curry carried a robust depth with tender chicken. Unfortunately, the handmade parotta fell short, seemingly undercooked and lacking the full layering of a well-made parotta.

Gosht Seekh Kebab 4/5

Chicken 65 4/5

Chicken Keema Kal Dosa 3.5/5

Other savoury highlights included Gosht Seekh Kebab, featuring tender lamb mince skewers flavoured with garlic, coriander, and mild chillies; Chicken 65, a South Indian classic of spiced, crispy fried chicken morsels; and Chicken Keema Kal Dosa, offering homely rice flatbread topped with spiced minced chicken.

Chilli Paneer 4.5/5

One dish that intrigued me the most was Chilli Paneer, one of the most well-known dishes in Indo-Chinese cuisine. The flour-coated fried paneer is tossed in a Tangra-style sauce that is sweet, spicy, tangy, and garlicky. The flavoursome sauce was a sharp yet delicious contrast to the gentle, milky sweetness of the paneer.

Kulfi Falooda 4/5

For desserts, we had Kulfi Falooda, featuring a house-made frozen reduced milk with almond and pistachio, fragrant with cardamom and rose, topped with vermicelli, holy basil seeds and a drizzle of raspberry sauce.

Other than The Great Indian Feast, GUPSHUP has also launched a refined menu of small plates, hearty mains, and creative desserts, ranging from street-style favourites such as chaat to elevated tandoor-grilled specialities and regional delicacies.

Promotion from 1 Sep to 15 Oct 2025
1-for-1 on The Great Indian Feast, $59++ for 2pax (limit to 90mins)
Only valid on Fri, Sat and Sun lunch

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.


GUPSHUP
The Serangoon House
301 Serangoon Road
Basement 1
Singapore 218224
Tel: +65 8866 0947
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Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Farrer Park MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk down Rangoon Road to Serangoon Road. Turn right onto Serangoon Road. Walk down Serangoon Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

IL Giardino @ The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens) - Italian Cicchetti Dining with Asian Twists

il Giardino is the newest addition to The Garage at Level 2 of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, introducing an Italian dining concept served cicchetti-style, perfect for sharing among groups. Opening in time to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Gardens' UNESCO World Heritage status this month, the restaurant offers a lush, garden-side setting with Italian creations elevated by fragrant local herbs and subtle Asian touches. It's an inviting spot for couples, families, and friends to gather over good food and conversation.

Beer Bread 'Gnoco Fritto' with Ginger Flower Salsa Verde 4/5

We began with the Beer Bread ‘Gnoco Fritto’, served warm with a ginger flower salsa verde. The bread had a pleasant chew, reminiscent of our local ‘butterfly’ snack, with an airy pocket inside. The salsa verde added brightness and a subtle floral lift.

Artigiana Burratina 4.2/5

The Artigiana Burratina ($19) was luxuriously soft and creamy, paired with sour plum tomatoes, carrot purée, and trapanese & mint pesto for a vibrant punch of flavour. Almond nuts added a nutty crunch to contrast the creaminess.

Panzanella 'Singapura' 3.5/5

Panzanella 'Singapura' ($16) reimagines the rustic Italian dish with local twists comprising green mango, croutons, cashew nuts, and "ugly" heirloom tomatoes that might otherwise be discarded. The smoked tamarind vinaigrette tied it together with bright, tropical acidity.

il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes 4.2/5

These il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes ($16) delivered a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. Scallion and kelp lent an aromatic lift, while the roasted garlic aioli dip added a creamy, savoury depth.

il Giardino Slow Cooked Venetian Octopus 4.2/5

Seafood lovers can savour il Giardino's signature Slow-Cooked Venetian Octopus ($22 S / $32 L), tender and delicately infused with fresh lemon and Laudemio extra virgin olive oil (a premium blend from 21 historic estates in Tuscany). The dish is further elevated with housemade gremolata and ginger flower salsa verde, served alongside warm house bread. Adding to its charm, the octopus is plated tableside from a large pot, exuding a rustic elegance.

Spaghetti alle Vongole 4.2/5

Cooked to an al dente bite, the Spaghetti alle Vongole ($19 S / $28 L) was perfumed with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley. Herb crumbs on top added extra texture and savouriness.

Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli 4/5

The Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli ($16 S / $24 L) was rich with a five-cheese sauce, enhanced by fried sage and hazelnut for fragrance and crunch. The pear compote offered a refreshing contrast to the cheese’s richness.

Parma Pizza 3.8/5

From the Ciabatta Romana Pizza selection, the Parma Ham ($19 S/ $28 L) version came topped with parma ham, mushrooms, arugula, honey, and truffle cream. It offered a lively mix of sweet, savoury, and earthy flavours on a satisfying dough base.

Pan Roasted King Salmon 3.8/5

The Pan Roasted King Salmon ($28) was crowned with a crisp parsley and pine nut crust. The ginger flower salsa verde and Chef Felix's eggplant caponata, which was tangy and flavour-packed, made for a bright pairing.

Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken 3/5

The Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken ($18 half / $28 whole) was moist and succulent from brining and roasting, finished with a light Amalfi lemon caper sauce. A deeper char or punchier seasoning could elevate it further.

Slow Braised Osso Bucco 4/5

The Slow-Braised Osso Bucco ($28 S / $38 L) presents fork-tender veal bathed in a luxurious Barolo wine jus, paired with silky whipped potatoes and brightened by a zesty kaffir lime gremolata. This refreshing Asian twist cuts through the richness. Of the three mains, this was easily my favourite.

il Giardino Affogato 3.8/5

A decadent finale, the il Giardino Affogato ($14) featured gelato on a crunchy buttered base of almond and upcycled ground coffee. A hot espresso pour melted the Valrhona chocolate shell, revealing berries and mint — aromatic, dramatic, and delicious.

Crispy, Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' 3/5

Choose from vanilla, hazelnut, honey ginger, or blood orange sorbet/gelato with these airy, crispy Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' ($16). Dusted generously with powdered sugar, they were light and sweet, though more memorable for texture than flavour.

With its cicchetti-style Italian menu infused with local and Asian touches, il Giardino makes for a charming dining experience in one of Singapore’s most scenic settings. While some dishes could use a little more punch, most plates hit a satisfying balance between creativity and comfort, making it a welcome addition to the Botanic Gardens dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


IL Giardino
The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens)
Level 2
50 Cluny Park Road
Singapore 257488
Tel: +65 9831 1106
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Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Botanic Gardens MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Cluny Park Road. Turn left onto Cluny Park Road and continue walking down the road. At Cluny Park Gate, walk in and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]