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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Kinki Restaurant + Bar @ Customs House - Celebrating 15 Years with a Throwback Menu

Kinki Restaurant + Bar marks 15 radical years in Singapore’s dining scene with its bold identity and innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. Known for reimagining Japanese comfort food into addictive new classics, Kinki continues to push boundaries while staying rooted in tradition.

This March, the restaurant brought back five of its well-loved creations as throwback à la carte dishes, offering diners a nostalgic yet exciting experience. I had the opportunity to sample three of these throwback dishes — Unagi Scallop Maki, Prawn & Spicy Tuna Maki, and Kinki Okonomiyaki—along with a few other menu highlights.

Unagi Scallop Maki 3.5/5

The Unagi Scallop Maki ($33) is a deep-fried maki roll featuring succulent unagi and scallops, complemented by house-made unagi sauce. Unlike traditional maki, this version has a tempura coating, giving it an additional crisp exterior. While the textures were enjoyable, the flavours could have been more pronounced to elevate the dish further.

Prawn & Spicy Tuna Maki 3.5/5

The Prawn & Spicy Tuna Maki ($28) offers a twist on the traditional spicy tuna roll by incorporating tempura prawn for a satisfying crunch. The spicy tuna mayo mixture adds a creamy element, but I wished for a more robust kick in the spice level to enhance the overall experience.

Kinki Okonomiyaki 3/5

Another throwback dish, the Kinki Okonomiyaki ($32), features classic okonomiyaki ingredients such as shredded cabbage, seafood, and streaky bacon. The dish is topped with bonito flakes and shredded nori but is served atop toasted bread, giving it a pizza-like presentation. Personally, I was not a fan of the bread base, which felt like a cost-cutting measure. I would have preferred a more traditional okonomiyaki with an abundance of shredded cabbage holding everything together.

Spicy Buffalo Katsu 1/5

We regretted ordering the Spicy Buffalo Katsu ($32). The katsu itself was very dry, and the spicy buffalo sauce was overwhelmingly spicy, making it difficult to appreciate the pork. Unfortunately, we were unable to finish this dish.

Buta Kakuni Claypot 4/5

Our favourite dish of the night was the Buta Kakuni Claypot ($35). This slow-cooked braised pork belly rice is served in a claypot with a perfectly poached egg. The pork belly was well-infused with the rich braised sauce, resulting in a melt-in-the-mouth texture. Every bite was packed with umami, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.

Matcha Lava Cake 2.5/5

To end the meal, we tried the Matcha Lava Cake ($15). While the matcha flavour was rich and distinct, the cake itself was denser than expected. Additionally, the pairing of matcha with goma (black sesame) ice cream felt mismatched, leaving us unconvinced by the flavour combination.

Kinki Restaurant + Bar continues to impress with its creative approach to Japanese cuisine, but this throwback menu had its highs and lows. While the Buta Kakuni Claypot stood out as a must-try, some dishes, like the Spicy Buffalo Katsu, missed the mark. Nonetheless, Kinki remains a vibrant spot for those looking to enjoy a fun and unconventional take on Japanese classics in a stylish setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kinki Restaurant + Bar
Customs House
70 Collyer Quay
#02-02
Singapore 049323
Tel: +65 83636697
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Go to 2nd floor, take the overhead bridge link across the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Hey Kee (嘻記) @ Former Singapore Badminton Hall - Celebrating Its 1st Anniversary with 10 New Dishes

In celebration of its 1st anniversary, Hey Kee (嘻記) introduces 10 new dishes inspired by a recent culinary journey to Guangzhou and Shunde. This special menu refresh aims to bring a modern twist to traditional Cantonese flavours. To mark the occasion, diners can enjoy a 50% discount on 9 of the new dishes from 25 March to 27 March 2025, available for both lunch and dinner.

Lychee Prawn Balls with Worcestershire & Smoked Chilli Pipettes 4/5

We started our meal with the Lychee Prawn Balls ($16.80 for 6pc), a classic dish with an exciting twist. The prawn ball itself isn't entirely new, but what makes it special is the addition of two distinct sauces —Worcestershire and Smoked Chilli Pipettes. These sauces elevate the flavours, adding a tangy depth and a subtle smoky heat, making each bite more enjoyable.

"Hair Dryer" White Pepper Jumbo Prawns 4.2/5

A dish that truly stands out for its unique preparation is the "Hair Dryer" White Pepper Jumbo Prawns ($42.80). This dish utilises a traditional Cantonese technique, where jumbo river prawns are seasoned simply with Sarawak white pepper and salt. The hair dryer technique, used just before serving, creates a crispy and tantalising exterior while preserving the succulent texture of the prawns.

Braised Pork Trotters with Golden Oysters 4.2/5

The Braised Pork Trotters with Golden Oysters ($36.80) is a rich and gelatinous dish celebrated for its high collagen content. The addition of oysters infuses the braised pork trotter with a deep umami essence, enhancing the overall enjoyment of this hearty dish.

Flambe Angus Beef with Whisky 4.5/5

One of the most visually spectacular dishes of the evening was the Flambé Angus Beef with Whisky ($46.80). Served tableside, thick premium beef cubes are seared in a flavourful sauce before being ignited with high-proof whisky. The result is a deep caramelisation, a subtle smoky aroma, and perfectly tender, flavourful beef that melts in your mouth.

Braised Homemade Tofu with Crab Roe 4/5

This dish transforms humble homemade tofu into a luxurious delight. The silky Braised Homemade Tofu with Crab Roe ($24.80), lightly braised to a delicate crisp, is generously covered in a rich and velvety crab roe sauce. The sweetness of the handmade tofu provides the perfect base for the decadent flavours of crab meat and roe, making this an elegant yet comforting dish.

Nostalgic Simmered Tiger Grouper Fish Soup 4.2/5

The Nostalgic Simmered Tiger Grouper Fish Soup ($98) is both nourishing and indulgent. The tiger grouper, known for its firm, collagen-rich flesh, is double-boiled with its bones and skin intact, preserving its nutrients and natural sweetness. The broth is further enhanced with cabbage, tofu, tomatoes, and wolfberries, creating a deeply flavorful and revitalising soup.

Steamed Roe Crab with Glutinous Rice 4.5/5

A highlight and ultimate crab indulgence is the Steamed Roe Crab with Glutinous Rice ($138). A whole crab crowns a bed of fragrant glutinous rice steamed together in a bamboo basket. The fragrant rice is infused with the crab's succulent juices for a buttery and oceanic sweetness. Tender crab meat and luscious crab roe further enrich the dish.

Glutinous Rice Cake with Brown Sugar 4.5/5

For dessert, we ended our meal with the Glutinous Rice Cake with Brown Sugar ($8.80 for 5pc). These crispy, golden rice cakes feature a chewy, mochi-like texture inside, with a caramelized brown sugar coating that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Simple yet incredibly addictive!

With its modern take on Cantonese classics, Hey Kee (嘻記) continues to impress with its refined flavours and innovative techniques. The Hair Dryer White Pepper Jumbo Prawns and Flambé Angus Beef with Whisky stood out as must-try dishes, while the Steamed Roe Crab with Glutinous Rice is a showstopper for seafood lovers. If you're looking to explore new and exciting flavours, this anniversary menu is an excellent opportunity, especially with the limited-time 50% discount. Be sure to visit from 25 to 27 March 2025 to experience these freshly curated dishes!

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hey Kee (嘻記)
102 Guillemard Road
#01-01
Singapore 399719
(Former Singapore Badminton Hall)
Tel: +65 65141588
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Nearest MRT: Kallang (EW Line), Paya Lebar (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Paya Lebar MRT station (Stop ID 81111). Take bus number 70. Alight 4 stops later. Walk straight down Guillemard Road. Walk t destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Kallang MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Kallang MRT station (Stop ID 80031). Take bus number 70 or 197. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to traffic junction Geylang Lorong 20 and Guillemard Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

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]