Shang Palace @ Shangri-La Hotel Singapore - Celebrates 54th Anniversary With A Celebratory Menu

In celebration of its 54th anniversary, Shang Palace at Shangri-La Singapore unveils a special commemorative menu that pays tribute to its rich legacy and the golden era of Cantonese cuisine. Curated by Executive Chinese Chef Daniel Cheung, the menu channels the spirit and splendour of the 1970s, bringing back iconic dishes with a modern finesse. From now till 31 May 2025, diners can savour the Celebration Set Menu ($388++ for 4 pax) or select from 12 nostalgic à la carte dishes that honour the restaurant’s heritage.

Crispy-fried Milk Custard 5/5, Pan-fried Long Bean Rings Stuffed with Dace Fish Paste 4.2/5

The meal began with a classic that many Cantonese food lovers would remember fondly: Crispy-fried Milk Custard (黄金炸鲜奶). Encased in a light, golden batter, the custard within is creamy, smooth, and fragrant, melting gently on the palate. This dish, made popular by Chinese chefs during the 1980s and 90s, is a textural delight that effortlessly balances richness and delicacy.

Reminiscent of Hakka Yong Tau Foo, the Pan-fried Long Bean Rings Stuffed with Dace Fish Paste (煎鲮鱼滑酿豆角) features long beans shaped into rings, each stuffed generously with dace fish paste and pan-fried until crisp. Served with a savoury dipping sauce, the dish is both nostalgic and satisfying, earthy, hearty, and wonderfully seasoned.

Braised Fresh Fish Meat with Luffa Melon, Straw Mushrooms and Chrysanthemum 4.5/5

A bowl of warm comfort, the Braised Fresh Fish Meat with Luffa Melon, Straw Mushrooms and Chrysanthemum (顺德菊花生拆生鱼羹) combines fresh fish meat, tender luffa melon, straw mushrooms, and chrysanthemum petals, resulting in a light yet flavourful broth. Add a dash of vinegar and pepper to enhance its nuanced flavours. It's a humble, soul-warming dish that showcases the finesse of Shunde-style cooking.

Deep-fried King Prawns with Tomato Sauce 5/5

One of the standout dishes for me was the Deep-fried King Prawns (茄汁干煎虾碌) slathered in a lip-smacking tomato sauce. The prawns were massive, cooked to bouncy perfection with a delightful firm bite. But the real star was the sauce, which is a tangy, sweet, and savoury tomato glaze that beautifully coated the crustaceans. It's a timeless classic done right.

Poached Mustard Green with Dried Shrimp, Dried Scallop and Minced Pork in Superior Broth 4/5

As a Teochew, I was particularly excited about the Poached Mustard Green with Dried Shrimp, Dried Scallop and Minced Pork in Superior Broth (虾干上汤瑶柱肉松浸大芥菜). Mustard green can be divisive due to its bitter notes, but it was perfectly poached here, retaining a gentle crunch while mellowing its bitterness. The superior broth, enriched with dried shrimp, dried scallops, and minced pork, added a deep umami flavour. I was especially impressed by the enormous dried shrimp imported from Hong Kong. It is a rare treat that elevated the dish even more.

Traditional Yuan Yang Fried Rice 4/5

The Traditional Yuan Yang Fried Rice (太极鸳鸯饭) brought back a wave of nostalgia. A staple at Hong Kong wedding banquets in the 1970s, Yuan Yang Fried Rice reflects the East-meets-West influences of the era. The egg fried rice is topped with two sauces: one red, tangy, tomato-based sauce with shredded chicken and onions, and the other a creamy white sauce with prawns and peas, arranged in a symbolic yin-yang pattern. It's visually striking, comforting, and full of flavour, a perfect representation of cultural harmony.

Deep-fried Water Chestnut Cake 4.5/5

Light, crispy, and slightly chewy inside, the Deep-fried Water Chestnut Cake (酥炸马蹄条) was a delightful way to end the meal. It offered a gentle sweetness and a lovely contrast of textures, making it an excellent traditional dessert. To wrap things up, we were served a warm bowl of Boiled Sweetened Beancurd Skin with Gingko Nuts and Quail Egg (腐竹白果鸡蛋糖水). Smooth, nourishing, and subtly sweet, it was the perfect closing note to a beautifully curated meal.

Boiled Sweetened Beancurd Skin with Gingko Nuts and Quail Egg 5/5

Shang Palace's 54th Anniversary Menu is more than just a culinary offering. It's a heartfelt tribute to tradition, culture, and the passage of time. Chef Daniel Cheung has masterfully revived these dishes with care and precision, letting each plate tell a story from the restaurant's illustrious past. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, this limited-time menu is a chance to taste the legacy of one of Singapore's most iconic Cantonese dining institutions.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shang Palace
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 6213 4473
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes.[Map]

Great Nanyang (大南洋) @ Geneo - Nostalgic Buns, Rojak & Penang Flavours Near Kent Ridge MRT Station

Great Nanyang (大南洋) has unveiled its latest outlet at Geneo, conveniently located next to Kent Ridge MRT station. Staying true to its nostalgic charm, the new space is decked out in retro touches, evoking the warm familiarity of old-school kopitiams. What makes this outlet special? Not just the vintage aesthetics, but exclusive menu items and merchandise that give fans even more to explore.

Mashed Taro Steam Bun 4/5

We began our meal with a colourful array of steamed buns, each with a unique filling that pays tribute to both traditional and playful local flavours. The highlight among the buns was the Mashed Taro Steamed Bun ($4.80). The filling was creamy and smooth with a natural taro flavour that wasn't overly sweet. Encased in a soft, fluffy bun, it was comforting and nostalgic. It is a true crowd-pleaser.

Bak Kwa Chicken Floss Steam Bun 3.8/5

Bak Kwa Chicken Floss Steam Bun ($5.80) is an inventive bun that combines two festive favourites: bak kwa and chicken floss. Reminiscent of Chinese New Year snack pairings, this creative take worked surprisingly well. The smoky sweetness of the bak kwa paired nicely with the savoury floss, delivering a delicious umami bite.

Peanut Butter Steamed Bun 4/5

Otak-Otak Steam Bun 4/5

The Peanut Butter ($3.50) and Otak-Otak ($4.80) versions are excellent choices for those who prefer something more classic. The peanut butter bun was rich and gooey, while the otak-otak version had just the right level of spice and fishiness to satisfy without overwhelming.

Traditional Kaya Butter Toast 4/5

A staple of local breakfasts, the Traditional Kaya Butter Toast ($2.70) didn't disappoint. The bread was crisp on the outside, slathered with fragrant house-made kaya and thick, cold slabs of butter that melted slightly on contact. It was simple, nostalgic, and perfect.

French Toast 4/5

The French Toast ($4.50) offered a slightly richer take, with slices dipped in egg before being pan-fried to golden perfection. Paired with a sweet kaya dipping sauce, it made for a satisfying midday snack or light breakfast.

Fresh Fruit Rojak 3/5

One of the unique offerings at this outlet is the Fresh Fruit Rojak cart, where diners can handpick fruit skewers at $1.50 per stick. Once assembled, the fruits are tossed in a bold, punchy rojak sauce that balances sweetness, tartness, and spice. It's light, refreshing, and great for sharing.

Penang White Curry Noodle 3.5/5

The hearty bowl of Penang White Curry Noodles ($8.90) comes with a combination of yellow noodles and beehoon, swimming in a creamy, coconut-based broth. Topped with taupok, fishballs, and prawns, the dish was satisfying on its own, but really came alive with the addition of their in-house chilli paste, which brought out the full complexity of the curry.

Chicken Berempah Leg Nasi Lemak Kukus 4/5

Served with steamed nasi lemak rice, the Chicken Berempah Leg Nasi Lemak Kukus ($8.90) featured boneless chunks of chicken leg marinated in a fragrant blend of Malay spices, then deep-fried until crispy on the outside and tender within. Accompanied by peanuts, sambal, and a fried egg, this was a fulfilling one-plate meal with bold, aromatic flavours.

Nanyang Style Dry Curry Prawns 4.8/5

If you're dining in a group, there’s an extensive selection of cooked dishes perfect for communal feasting. We tried a few standouts:

Served with five large prawns, the Nanyang Style Dry Curry Prawns ($18) was a flavour bomb. The dry curry was aromatic, thick, and spicy, coating each prawn in a fragrant gravy that demanded extra rice. It was deeply satisfying. This is a must-order.

Sambal Kang Kong 4.2/5

Classic and well-executed, the Sambal Kang Kong ($8.80) was stir-fried in a robust sambal belacan, giving it a spicy and savoury kick while maintaining its fresh crunch.

Penang Asam Curry Fish Head 4.5/5

The Penang Asam Curry Fish Head ($32.80) is an impressive claypot dish brimming with flavour. The asam curry was wonderfully tangy, with a gentle heat that teased the palate. The fish head was fresh and meaty, surrounded by a medley of lady fingers, brinjal, long beans, and tomatoes. Every bite was hearty, bold, and comforting—the kind of dish that makes you reach for extra rice just to mop up the sauce.

Great Nanyang at Geneo is more than just a place to eat. It's a nostalgic trip down memory lane with creative modern twists. From playful steamed buns and toast sets to flavourful nasi lemak and claypot fish head curry, there's something for every appetite. Whether you're popping in for breakfast or gathering with friends for a full meal, this outlet delivers warmth, flavour, and a delightful dose of nostalgia.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Great Nanyang (大南洋)
Geneo
1B Science Park Drive
#B1-32
Singapore 119315
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Nearest MRT: Kent Ridge (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 830pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Kent Ridge MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 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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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]