Edge @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Tastes of Vietnam Buffet

Embark on a sensory journey through the heart of Vietnam at Edge, Pan Pacific Singapore, as the award-winning buffet restaurant brings the "Tastes of Vietnam" to life. From 7 to 30 March 2025, diners can indulge in an exclusive dinner experience curated by Pan Pacific Hanoi's Executive Chef Zack Truong and Junior Sous-chef Hoa Trung Kien in collaboration with Edge's own Executive Chef Andy Oh. This culinary showcase celebrates Vietnam's rich and diverse flavours, offering a delightful spread of traditional dishes alongside Edge's signature global offerings.

With nearly two decades of culinary mastery, Chef Zack brings his expertise from Dubai to the Maldives, blending time-honoured Vietnamese recipes with contemporary finesse. During the launch week, guests can witness the chefs in action as authentic flavours and exceptional craftsmanship come together for an unforgettable dining experience.

Wok Fried Glass Noodle with Eel, Grilled Pork Belly with Fermented Rice and Galangal

The Wok-Fried Glass Noodles with Eel balance the chewiness of glass noodles with the crispiness of the fried eel, creating a delightful textural contrast. Meanwhile, the Grilled Pork Belly with Fermented Rice offers a rich umami depth alongside aromatic notes of galangal. It would be a perfect pairing with a bowl of white rice.

Stir-Fried Kohlrabi with Dried Shrimp

Crisp, refreshing Kohlrabi is stir-fried with savoury dried shrimp, creating a balanced blend of crunch and umami. The contrast of textures makes this a simple yet satisfying side.

Jellyfish Salad with Chili and Lime

Bright and invigorating, this salad pairs the delicate brininess of Jellyfish with a zesty chilli-lime dressing. Each bite is a refreshing medley of crisp textures and citrusy heat.

Stewed Beef Shank with Vinegar & Fish Sauce

A slow-cooked masterpiece, the Beef Shank is tender and deeply infused with the tangy sharpness of vinegar and the savoury complexity of fish sauce. It is comforting and bold in flavour.

Wok Fried River Prawn with Tamarin Sauce

Succulent River Prawns are stir-fried in a luscious tamarind sauce that expertly balances sweet, sour, and savoury elements. The rich glaze enhances the prawns' natural sweetness.

Steamed Whole Mud Crab with Chinese Herbal in Lotus Leaf

A show-stopping highlight, this dish features a Whole Steamed Mud Crab served alongside a Chinese herbal sauce on the side. The crabs are incredibly fresh and generously filled with roe. It is a must-try, even on its own without the sauce.

Southern Beef Wrapped in Betel Leaves

Ground Beef seasoned with fragrant spices is encased in Betel Leaves and grilled to smoky perfection. This savoury delicacy is aromatic and tender, offering a taste of Southern Vietnamese cuisine.

Fried Prawn Meat with Sugar Cane

This beloved delicacy features flavourful Prawn Paste wrapped around juicy sugar cane. The juxtaposition of savoury seafood and subtly sweet sugar cane creates a unique and delightful bite.

Mini Savoury Pancakes with Prawn Coconut Cream

These crispy-edged, bite-sized Pancakes are topped with juicy prawns and a hint of rich coconut cream. They are a popular Southern Vietnamese street snack that we can't stop at one.

Northern Sour Fish Soup with Local Herbs

A comforting bowl of tangy Fish Soup, where the delicate taste of fresh fish meets a herbaceous broth, is a Northern speciality that is a soothing and flavourful representation of home-style Vietnamese cooking.

Fresh Spring Roll with Prawn

Freshly assembled at the live station, these light and refreshing Spring Rolls feature plump prawns, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. They are a classic Vietnamese must-have.

Noodle Live Station – Vietnamese Noodle Broth “Pho” with Chicken

Experience the soul-soothing warmth of authentic Vietnamese Pho. This live station offers a choice of tender chicken or beef in a rich, aromatic broth with an array of fresh garnishes, including basil, chilli, and bean sprouts for a personalised touch.

Grilled Banana Wrapped in Sticky Rice with Coconut Sauce

For a sweet conclusion, savour this Caramelised Banana encased in sticky rice drizzled with creamy coconut sauce. Additional toppings provide extra texture and indulgence.

Plain Yogurt with Black Sticky Rice

This simple, satisfying dessert pairs house-made Yoghurt with sweet, nutty Black Sticky Rice. The combination of creamy and chewy textures is a delightful finish.

Taro Sweet Soup

A personal favourite, this warm and velvety soup features earthy Taro bathed in a sweet coconut-infused broth. The comforting richness makes it a standout dessert, especially for taro lovers.

"Tastes of Vietnam" at Edge runs from 7 until 30 March 2025, exclusively for dinner from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
• Sundays to Thursdays: $98 per adult and $49 per child (6-12 years old), inclusive of free-flow soft drinks.
• Fridays and Saturdays: $118 per adult and $59 per child (6-12 years old), inclusive of free-flow soft drinks.

Immerse yourself in this limited-time celebration of Vietnamese cuisine and savour the diverse flavours crafted by culinary masters. For reservations, call 6826 8240 or email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com.

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


Edge
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 6826 8240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade MRT (DT, CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

The Orchard Cafe @ The Orchard Hotel Singapore - Lavish Buffet Featuring Finest Cut of Meats and BBQ Seafood

The Orchard Cafe at The Orchard Hotel Singapore has a brand new lineup with Flaming Feast: Prime "Meats" Seafood BBQ Buffet. Running from 1 March to 4 May 2025, the feast also showcases American flavours, offering a range of BBQ meats with hearty US flavours, comforting Western fare, and indulgent desserts.

BBQ Smoked Hickory US Beef Brisket

Slow Roasted US Kurobuta Pork Shoulder

Slow Roasted US Grain Fed Prime Rib

Over at the Prime Meats & Signature Carving station, you will find beastly-looking roasts and BBQ meats — Slow-Roasted US Grain-Fed Prime Rib, BBQ-smoked hickory US Beef Brisket, and Slow-Roasted US Kurobuta Pork Shoulder. While the meats were truly the stars of the offerings, given their succulency and bold flavours, the sides were delectable as well. The Yorkshire puddings were excellent with the US prime rib, and the buttery mashed potatoes for the pork shoulder were sinfully delicious.

Charcoal Grilled Meats

New Orleans BBQ Prawn

Alongside the BBQ meats, the Charcoal Grill Selections features tantalising items such as Flank Steak. Short Plate, Lamp Chops and Beef Sirloin. The New Orleans BBQ Prawn offered a fresh take on their usual grilled prawns.

Pumpkin Croquette, Maryland Crab Cakes, Fries, Buttermilk Chicken

Another station offered the comfort of Fried Basket. There were Fish & Chips, succulent Buttermilk Chicken, and my favorites were the Pumpkin Croquette and Maryland Crab Cakes.

Seafood on Ice

The Seafood on Ice station was also delightful, with Snow Crab Legs among other usual favourites such as Red Prawns and Black Mussels. Boosting the seafood offering, there is also a Sashimi and Sushi counter offering Norwegian Salmon sashimi, Yellow Fin Tuna and Hokkaido Tako.

Banana Foster with Caramel Ice Cream

Snicker Chocolate Bar

Blueberry Cheesecake

Another highlight was the dessert lineup. Not only are there regular crowd-pleasing and comforting sweets such as Bread & Butter Pudding, Blueberry Cheesecake, and Key Lime Pie, but also unique creations such as the Snicker Chocolate Bar, which offers a whole new experience in enjoying the familiar flavours of a Snickers. The live station whipped up delicious Banana Foster with Caramel Ice Cream made of caramelised bananas served with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.

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.


The Orchard Cafe
Lobby
442 Orchard Road
Singapore 238879
Tel: +65 67396565
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Wheelock Place. Walk to traffic junction of Orchard Road and Angullia Park. Cross the road to Royal Thai Embassy. Turn left and continue down Orchard Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Kok Sen Restaurant @ City Square Mall - Eight Year Bib Gourmand Awardee Opens Second Outlet

The renowned Kok Sen Restaurant, a household name at Keong Saik with an impressive eight-year streak on the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand list, has expanded with a second outlet at City Square Mall. This milestone marks a new chapter for the family-run restaurant, which has been serving authentic Cantonese delights for over 54 years, spanning three generations.

Beyond its signature classics, the City Square Mall outlet also debuts exclusive dishes, offering both loyal patrons and new diners something fresh to look forward to.

Crispy Smoked Tea Duck 4/5

A highly anticipated new dish, the Crispy Smoked Tea Duck ($25/$50), is available in limited quantities daily. The duck is meticulously marinated for at least 8 hours in a secret sauce that deeply infuses the meat with rich flavours before being air-dried for 2-3 hours to remove excess moisture. It is then smoked and deep-fried to perfection, resulting in an incredibly light, crispy skin that complements the tender, fragrant meat.

Kok Sen's Original Big Prawn Thick Beehoon White Soup 4/5

Another City Square Mall exclusive is Kok Sen's Original Big Prawn Thick Beehoon White Soup ($19/$38/$57). This comforting dish features large, succulent prawns and thick rice vermicelli, all immersed in a robust, non-spicy superior prawn broth. Unlike the spicier, well-loved version at the Keong Saik outlet, this rendition stays true to the Wong Family's original recipe, which has been passed down for generations and enjoyed during festive celebrations, birthdays, and family gatherings.

Claypot Yong Tau Foo 4/5

A must-try staple at Kok Sen, the Claypot Yong Tau Foo ($18/$27/$36) is a hearty, comforting dish that highlights freshly made stuffed beancurd, brinjal, capsicum, and red chilli, all generously filled with a flavorful mix of squid and prawn paste. The dish is finished with a fragrant, umami-rich bean sauce, making every bite a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Deep Fried "Yu Gai" 3.5/5

The Deep Fried "Yu Gai" ($20/$30/$40) features thick, fleshy strips of deep-fried Toman fish meat fried to a golden crisp. What truly elevates this dish is the Chef's special dipping sauce, which enhances the fish's natural sweetness and adds a bold depth of flavour.

Roasted Pork with Black Sauce 4.2/5

The Roasted Pork with Black Sauce ($18/$27/$36) is a must-order for those who love a flavourful, saucy dish. Crispy, freshly roasted pork is wok-fried with caramelised onions and a rich, savoury-sweet black sauce, making it the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of steamed rice.

With its rich culinary heritage, new location, and exclusive dishes, Kok Sen's second outlet at City Square Mall is a fantastic addition to Singapore's food scene. Whether you're a long-time fan of their Michelin Bib Gourmand classics or eager to try their new, exclusive offerings, this expansion ensures that the Wong family's time-honoured flavours continue to delight old and new generations alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kok Sen Restaurant
City Square Mall
180 Kitchener Road
#04-31/32
Singapore 208539
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Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 430pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Farrer Park MRT station. Take Exit H. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Siong Tong Gai @ 313 Somerset - Choose From Top 8 KL Zi Char Crab Flavours From Popular Malaysian Zi Char Restaurant

Siong Tong Gai, a well-established Malaysian zi char chain with over 10 outlets, debuted in Singapore late last year in 313 Somerset, bringing its renowned seafood dishes to local diners.

The restaurant recently introduced eight signature KL-style crab flavours, offering classic and innovative options.

Signature Braised Crab with Cucumber 4/5

We started with the Signature Braised Crab with Cucumber ($63.80), an unexpected yet refreshing pairing. The dish emphasises the crab's natural sweetness, complemented by mildly savoury gravy and crunchy cucumber strips. This lighter option is ideal for those who prefer subtler flavours.

Signature Spicy Sauce Crab 4/5

Next, we had the Signature Spicy Sauce Crab ($63.80), a flavour for those who prefer a punchier flavour. It uses a special blend of spices and dried chilli. The spice was more than manageable despite its name.

Other crab flavours include Kum Hiong Style Stir Fried Crab, Salted Egg Yolk Crab, ⁠⁠'Ham Sup' Salted Egg Yolk Sauce Crab, Black Pepper Crab, Typhoon Shelter Crab and Soy Sauce Crab.

Fried Prawns with Soy Sauce 3.5/5

The Fried Prawns with Soy Sauce ($29) used large, easy-to-peel prawns coated in a sweet-savory glaze. While flavourful, the prawns were slightly dry.

Dry Salted Egg Sotong 3.8/5

A good dish to share is the Dry Salted Egg Sotong ($19.80). Each piece was coated in a thick, crunchy salted egg batter that was rich yet not overwhelmingly salty.

Kum Hiong Clams 3/5

We also tried the Kum Hiong Clams ($14.80). While the kum hiong sauce was pretty flavourful, the clams were smaller than expected.

3 Treasure Vegetable 3.5/5

For vegetables, the 3 Treasure Vegetable ($12.80) offered a simple combination of pea sprouts and mixed mushrooms.

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.


Siong Tong Gai
313@somerset
313 Orchard Road
#B3-02/03/04/05/06
Singapore 238895
Tel: +65 69081393
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro @ Hilton Orchard Singapore - Celebrates Year of The Snake With a Variety of Festive Set Menus

Chūka Szechwan Ryori specialist Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro celebrates the upcoming Chinese New Year with a variety of festive set menus, à la carte offerings, as well as festive goodies available for takeaway.

The renovated space is stunning, with a high ceiling and well-curated art pieces throughout. Befitting its Michelin-starred status, the service here is attentive, gracious and thoughtful, capturing the essence of omotenashi, the quintessentially Japanese spirit of hospitality.

The Abundance Set Menu ($208++ per guest) is an elegant 8-course experience designed to delight the senses. Other festive set menus, ranging from $168++ to $388++ per guest, are also available for dine-in from 12 January to 12 February 2025.

Abalone and Madai Yu Sheng 4.5/5

The evening commenced with an Abalone and Madai Yu Sheng presented to the table. This festive favourite features tender slices of abalone and Japanese Madai (Sea Bream). It is accompanied by a vibrant mix of shredded carrots, green and white radishes, pickled ginger, and cucumbers, and the dish is finished with a calamansi plum sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkling of crushed peanuts. We tossed it well and high for good luck and enjoyed this refreshing start to the meal.

Crab Roe Foie Gras Chawanmushi with Bird’s Nest 5/5

Next came a dish of Crab Roe Foie Gras Chawanmushi with Bird's Nest, served in its own warmer. This dish was silky and rich, using carefully hand-picked crab that lent it a delicate sweetness. Each spoonful was warm and totally luxurious, especially with the added indulgence of Bird's Nest on top.

Stir-Fried Prawns with Basil Sauce 4.5/5

Our next dish was Stir-Fried Prawns with Basil Sauce. It featured a plump, juicy prawn coated in a fragrant, aromatic basil sauce. The prawn was slightly crisp and very fresh, with firm yet tender flesh. Eaten with the basil sauce, it was simply delicious!

Steamed Seasonal Fish Fillet with Pickled Peppers 4.2/5

Following the prawn was the Steamed Seasonal Fish Fillet with Pickled Peppers. We were presented with Kinmedai, prized for its sweet, clean taste and firm texture, which is a bit richer than other white fish. It was served with pickled peppers and topped with a chilli blend for a subtle kick of spice. While the sauce was excellent, I found the fish itself to be slightly overcooked.

Wok Fried Hokkaido Shirobuta Pork with XO Sauce 4.2/5

The Wok-Fried Hokkaido Shirobuta Pork with XO Sauce was served with a medley of vegetables, such as asparagus, peppers, and mushrooms. Shirobuta is known for its fine, even marbling in the meat, which gives it a juicy, melty mouthfeel. The tasty XO Sauce also enhanced the overall flavour of the pork.

Braised Australian 4-head Whole Abalone with Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce 4.8/5

I really enjoyed the Braised Australian 4-head Whole Abalone with Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce, which had very comforting flavours. The abalone had a smooth, delicate texture that wasn't rubbery or tough and absorbed the delicious sauce it was sitting in. I also liked that they cooked it with some crisp lettuce for a slight crunch. The sauce was so good. I would have loved to eat it with white rice or stewed noodles if I had not already been so full!

Wok-fried Glutinous Rice with Chinese Sausages topped with Crispy Sakura Shrimps 4.5/5

Despite being so full, I couldn't resist trying the Wok-fried Glutinous Rice with Chinese Sausages, topped with Crispy Sakura Shrimps. The rice was fragrant and aromatic, infused with the rich flavour of the Chinese sausages. The rice was nice and sticky, with a slightly chewy texture.

Double-boiled Hashima with Dried Longan and Crispy Duo-flavour Nian Gao Roll 4/5

For dessert, we were treated to a bowl of Double-boiled Hashima with Dried Longan, as well as a Crispy Duo-flavour Nian Gao Roll. The Hashima, with its soft, gelatinous texture, is believed to be rich in collagen, offering both beauty and health benefits. Cooked with longan and dates, it was light and subtly sweet.

However, my personal preference was the crispy Nian Gao roll, wrapped in spring roll skin. In addition to the traditional nian gao, it also featured a pandan-flavoured version, adding an interesting twist to the roll.

As my dining companion doesn't eat Hashima, the staff kindly offered her a bowl of mango sago instead, which was a tangy and very refreshing end to her meal.

Overall, dining at Shisen Hanten is a real treat and a memorable experience from start to finish. With its refined cuisine, sophisticated ambience and impeccable service, it's definitely the kind of place to bring someone you'd like to impress. Wine and tea pairings are also available to complement your dining experience.

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.


Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro
Hilton Singapore Orchard
Level 35
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]