Opus Bar and Grill @ VOCO Orchard Singapore - Grilled Out Sunday Edition 2.0.

Opus Bar and Grill has recently rolled out a refreshed edition of its Sunday brunch, Grilled Out Sunday Edition 2.0. This new concept introduces a bi-monthly themed culinary series, where each edition has its own menu, ranging from classic roasts and slow-smoked meats to local flavours, spit-roast specials, and festive holiday grills. The experience is further elevated with curated beverage pairings, including wines, cocktails and beers.

Taking centre stage in this Grilled Out Sunday Edition 2.0 à la carte buffet is the mains selection, where the sumptuous meat platter is as much a visual feast as it is indulgent. The Sunday roasts highlight four distinctive fire-led cooking techniques — Grilling, Josper Roasting, Smoking and Rotisserie.

Black Angus Striploin

From the grill, the Black Angus Striploin delivered the expected beefy flavours. The Josper oven was key in building intense depth in the Garlic and Rosemary Lamb Leg, sealing in its aromatic richness. The Smoked Duck Breast stood out for its tender, unctuous texture, gently infused with a lingering smokiness. A familiar crowd-pleaser, the Rotisserie-roasted Chicken was evenly cooked, with golden skin and a desired succulence. That said, the oven -roasted Crispy Pork Belly fell short of expectations. The crackling lacked the desired crispness, and a slight gamey note detracted from its overall appeal.

An engaging highlight of the brunch is the live guéridon service, where selected savoury items are finished tableside, adding an interactive and theatrical touch to the dining experience.

Moules Marinière

Completing the brunch is a selection of appetisers and sides. The starters were delectable - Crab and Potato, Moules Marinière, and Roasted Tomato Soup were enjoyable and, in fact, more memorable than the sides.

Cauliflower Gratin

Yorkshire Pudding

Among the sides, the warm, cheesy Cauliflower Gratin and the classic Yorkshire Pudding stood out. The latter, being a must-have with any proper Sunday roast, was fluffy and chewy.

Salad Bar

A thoughtful addition is the self-service Salad Bar, where we helped ourselves to fresh salads, cheeses and crackers as we await our orders.

Creme Brulee

For desserts, we had the Apple Crumble, Crème Brûlée, and Ice Cream Sundae. The latter charmed with its nostalgic, old-school presentation. My favourite was the Apple Crumble, served warm with a generous dollop of cream. The buttery sweetness of the crumble hit just the right spot, making it a comforting and satisfying end to the meal.

Ice Cream Sundae

For more information and for dining reservations, please call Opus Bar and Grill at +65 6730 3390 or visit orcharddining.vocohotels.com/dining/opus-bar-grill

Grilled Out Sunday (a la carte buffet)
Every Sunday, 12pm to 3pm $78++ per adult | $39++ per child (6 to 12 years old)
Free-flow alcoholic beverages at $48++ per adult

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.


Opus Bar & Grill
VOCO Orchard Singapore
581 Orchard Road
Singapore 238883
Tel: +65 6730 3390
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Walk down Orchard Road to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

Longjing (绿茶餐厅) @ Novena Square - Elegant Zhejiang Flavours in a Serene Bamboo-Inspired Setting

Following its successful debut at Suntec City, where snaking queues became a daily sight, Longjing (绿茶) has expanded with a new outlet at Novena Square. Hailing from Hangzhou, the brand spotlights Zhejiang (Jiangnan) cuisine, known for its light, refined, and produce-forward approach in contrast to the bolder, spice-laden profiles of other Chinese regional cuisines.

Stepping into the Novena space, diners are greeted by a serene bamboo-themed interior, an evolution of the brand’s signature “water town” aesthetic. Glowing lanterns, hand-painted murals, and wooden accents come together to evoke the poetic charm of Jiangnan’s misty waterways, offering a tranquil dining atmosphere that complements the cuisine’s understated elegance.

Vermicelli Wrapped Shrimps 4.2/5

We began with the Vermicelli Wrapped Shrimps ($18.80). Presented on a sizzling hotplate, the dish is theatrically finished tableside with a drizzle of sauce that releases an aromatic burst. The prawns are succulent and bouncy, while the vermicelli acts as a sponge, soaking up the umami-laden seafood juices, garlic, and fragrant oil. Despite its robust flavours, the dish remains balanced and not overly salty, staying true to the restrained seasoning typical of Zhejiang cooking.

Chive and Shrimp Crispy Pancake 3.5/5

The Chive and Shrimp Crispy Pancake ($8.80) offers a contrast in texture. Its thin, golden-brown wrapper shatters upon bite, delivering a brittle crispness with a surprisingly light, non-greasy finish. Within, a fragrant filling of chopped Chinese chives and shrimp provides a punchy, garlicky aroma balanced by the seafood’s natural sweetness.

Double Boiled Black Chicken Soup with Bamboo Fungus 4/5

For something comforting, the Double Boiled Black Chicken Soup with Bamboo Fungus ($7.80) delivers a nourishing, restorative quality. The broth is clear and delicate, with a natural sweetness drawn from hours of double boiling. The bamboo fungus lends an interesting textural dimension, spongy yet gently crispy, absorbing the broth while adding a subtle bite.

Stir-fried Chinese Chive 4/5

Vegetable dishes are handled with equal finesse. The Stir-fried Chinese Chive ($11.80) showcases commendable wok hei, lending a smoky aroma that enhances the chives’ inherent garlicky sharpness. Flash-fried to retain their vibrant green hue and slight crunch, the young chives are tender and aromatic without turning fibrous.

Hangzhou Eggplant with Sweet Peppers 4/5

Equally satisfying is the Hangzhou Eggplant with Sweet Peppers ($9.80). Unlike its oilier Sichuan counterparts, this rendition is lighter and more refined. The eggplant is braised to a silky, melt-in-the-mouth consistency, while sweet peppers introduce a gentle brightness and colour contrast without overpowering the dish.

Longjin Roast Chicken 4.2/5

Among the meat offerings, the Longjing Roast Chicken ($23.80) stands out. Subtly infused with tea aroma, the dish carries a clean, fragrant finish that balances the richness of the roasted fat. The chicken is tender and juicy, encased in a paper-thin, golden skin that crackles lightly upon bite while remaining surprisingly lean.

Fiery Ribs 4.2/5

For those seeking bolder flavours, the Fiery Ribs ($23.80) offer a punchier profile. The ribs boast a crisp exterior and tender, fall-off-the-bone interior, coated in a dry-rub seasoning of dried chillies, garlic, and peppercorns. The heat is fragrant and mildly numbing, reminiscent of mala but less oily and more restrained, making it accessible yet satisfying.

Claypot Rice with Egg, Smoked Pork, Mushroom, and Choy Sum 4.2/5

The Claypot Rice with Egg, Smoked Pork, Mushroom, and Choy Sum ($15.80) rounds off the savoury selections. Cooked traditionally in a claypot, the rice develops a prized scorched crust (guoba) along the base, delivering a smoky crunch that contrasts with the fluffy grains above. Compared to the darker, soy-heavy Cantonese versions, this rendition is cleaner yet still deeply savoury.

Leifeng Pagoda 3.8/5

On a lighter note, the Leifeng Pagoda ($4.80) is a visually appealing dessert inspired by the iconic Pagoda. The silky milk-based pudding is gently sweetened, allowing its creamy, milky fragrance to shine. With its delicate wobble and melt-in-the-mouth texture, it provides a refreshing and elegant conclusion to the meal.

Overall, Longjing’s Novena outlet continues to impress with its thoughtful execution of Zhejiang cuisine — a cuisine that celebrates subtlety, balance, and natural flavours. Coupled with its immersive ambience, it offers a dining experience that feels both transportive and comforting, bringing a slice of Jiangnan’s poetic charm to Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Longjing (绿茶餐厅)
Velocity @ Novena Square
238 Thomson Road
#03-09/10
Singapore 307683
Tel: +65 6348 4476
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Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm

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

Kai Garden @ Marina Square - Celebrate 10th Anniversary with New Creations and 50% OFF Selected Dishes

Kai Garden celebrates its 10th anniversary this year with a specially curated menu by Group Executive Chef Fung Chi Keung, showcasing both signature favourites and new creations featuring premium ingredients like crab roe and black truffle. Diners can enjoy 50% off one selected dish from the anniversary menu (with no minimum spend), making this a great time to revisit or experience the restaurant.

Steamed Crystal Dumplings w Morel Mushrooms 4/5

The Steamed Crystal Dumplings with Morel Mushrooms ($11.80) stood out for their delicate execution. The skin has a thin, almost mochi-like texture, giving it a slight chew while still feeling light. The filling is fresh and flavourful without being overpowering, allowing the earthy notes of the morel mushrooms to come through nicely.

Baked BBQ Honey Pork Pastry 4/5

A dim sum classic, the Baked BBQ Honey Pork Pastry ($9.80) delivers with its buttery, flaky crust. What I appreciated most was that the char siew filling wasn’t overly sweet, striking a nice balance that makes it easy to enjoy without feeling cloying.

Steamed Soup Dumplings with Crab Roe 4/5

The Steamed Soup Dumplings with Crab Roe ($12.80) may come across slightly premium, but the quality justifies it. Each dumpling is juicy, packed with umami and surprisingly not greasy. The vinegar served alongside is also worth mentioning! It’s not your typical sharp vinegar, but slightly sweet and ginger-infused, pairing beautifully with the dumplings and elevating the overall experience.

Braised Seafood Thick Soup in Stone Pot 4.5/5

The Braised Seafood Thick Soup in Stone Pot ($38) is generous and indulgent, loaded with premium ingredients such as sea cucumber, fish maw, dried scallops, and even bird’s nest. It’s rich, collagen-packed and served piping hot in a stone pot, making it both comforting and luxurious. This is a classic Cantonese soup done well.

Crab Roe with Pan-Fried Hor Fun 4.5/5

Crab roe dishes seem to be having a moment, and Kai Garden’s version with Pan-Fried Hor Fun ($48) is a solid one. The rice noodles have a nice wok hei, complemented by the savoury depth of cai poh and fish sauce before being topped with a luscious crab roe sauce. I particularly liked that it’s served over a flame, keeping the sauce warm, as it can develop a slightly fishy note once cooled. Portion-wise, it’s generous and easily shareable among 3–4 diners.

Black Truffle Roasted Chicken 5/5

The Black Truffle Roasted Chicken ($32/half) was a pleasant surprise and a clear standout. The skin is crispy, the meat tender and juicy, and the truffle aroma is subtle. The truffle profile is not overpowering, with a slight hint of Chinese herbal notes that adds depth. A well-balanced dish that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Kai Garden’s 10th anniversary menu brings together the restaurant’s strengths, refined Cantonese classics with a touch of modern luxury through ingredients like crab roe and black truffle. While the dishes lean towards a more polished, fine-dining profile, the 50% off promotion on selected dishes makes this an especially worthwhile time to visit and try some of their highlights. If you’re planning a meal here, I’d recommend going with a group so you can try a wider variety, especially the soup, hor fun and roasted chicken.

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


Kai Garden
Marina Square
6 Raffles Boulevard
#03-128A/128B
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 62504826
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 330pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 4pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B, C, or D. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Westlake @ Queen's Road - Celebrates 52nd anniversary with 52% off Selected Heritage Favourites And New Dishes

Located along Queen’s Road in a charming old neighbourhood, Westlake is celebrating 52 years of heritage with a lineup of new dishes, alongside attractive discounts on selected items from 13 April to 29 May 2026.

Braised Pork with Pau 4.2/5

For decades, Westlake has been synonymous with its Braised Pork with Pau, which some may recall picking up on several occasions from its takeaway kiosks. At the restaurant, you can now enjoy this signature dish ($20 for 5pcs, $37 for 10pcs) in a more comfortable setting. The pork belly featured a pleasing fat-to-meat ratio, coated in a rich, flavoursome sauce that was thick yet not overwhelming. The lotus pau is specially made with a firmer structure to better hold the filling. While satisfying, I would have preferred a more melt-in-your-mouth texture and a slightly thicker cut of pork.

Hot & Sour Soup 4.8/5

Another community favourite is Westlake’s Hot & Sour Soup ($16/$20/$28), and it’s easy to see why. Made with house-brewed chicken stock simmered for 24 hours and brimming with black fungus, shiitake mushrooms, and tofu, the soup was deeply flavourful with a pleasing consistency and well-balanced heat. Once adjusted with vinegar to taste, it easily ranks among the better renditions I’ve had in a long time.

Butter King Prawn 4.2/5

Butter King Prawn ($38/$58/$76) impressed with prawns topped with a generous heap of butter-fried coconut flakes. While the prawns leaned slightly dry, the aromatic coconut flakes more than made up for it. The highlight was biting into the crispy prawn head together with the fragrant topping.

Claypot Hokkien Mee 3/5

Served in an earthenware pot, the Claypot Hokkien Mee ($10/$16/$22) features wok-fried noodles simmered to absorb flavour. It was hearty and generously packed with prawns, squid, pork, and vegetables. However, it would have been better with a deeper wok hei and a less pronounced alkaline note in the noodles.

Westlake Roast Chicken 4.5/5

A definite crowd-pleaser and a dish that regulars come back for, the Westlake Roast Chicken ($25/$43) is expertly fried whole, achieving a golden, crispy skin while retaining juicy meat.

Stir-Fried Beancurd with Green Chilli 3/5

Among the new dishes, the Stir-Fried Beancurd with Green Chilli ($15/$19/$23) features tofu cooked in an umami-rich black bean sauce with minced meat. The dish is finished with a house sauce, originally crafted by Westlake’s founder and now passed down to the third generation. While the tofu itself was flavourful, the addition of green chillies felt somewhat unnecessary.

Claypot Chilli Frog Leg 4/5

A more uncommon local offering, the Claypot Chilli Frog Leg ($25/$37/$48) is cooked with quintessential aromatics such as chilli padi, dried chilli, onion, ginger, and spring onion. Interestingly, it is paired with chee cheong fun instead of the usual porridge. While I have limited experience with this dish, enthusiasts might miss the comforting element that porridge typically brings.

Minced Pork with Bean Sauce Noodle 5/5

My favourite among the new offerings is the founder’s treasured recipe of Minced Pork with Bean Sauce Noodle ($10/$16/$20). Tossed with spinach and shredded cucumber, the noodles are coated in a savoury, not overpowering fermented bean paste. Surprisingly light on the palate, this dish truly delighted.

Tau Sah Pancake 3.5/5

To end on a sweet note, we had the Cantonese classic Tau Sah Pancake ($22). Thinner and crispier than most versions I’ve tried, it still delivered a satisfying finish to the meal.

To mark its 52nd anniversary, Westlake is offering diners 52% off selected dishes from 13 April to 29 May 2026. The promotion features Butter King Prawn, Stir-Fried Beancurd with Green Chilli, Claypot Chilli Frog Leg, and Minced Pork with Bean Sauce Noodle. The promotion is available all day from Monday to Wednesday, and during lunch hours (11am to 2pm) on Thursday and Friday

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.


Westlake
Block 4 Queen’s Road
#02-139
Singapore 260004
Tel: +65 6474 7283
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Nearest MRT: Farrer Road (CC Line)

Operating Hours:
Daily: 11am – 2pm, 5pm – 9pm

Direction:
Alight at Farrer Road MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Crystal Jade Group Presents An Exquisite Lunar New Year Collection To Usher In The Year of The Horse

Crystal Jade Group ushers in the Year of the Horse with a refined and thoughtfully curated Lunar New Year collection that celebrates abundance, elegance, and the spirited vitality of the festive season. Spanning its well-loved fine-dining and casual dining concepts, the extensive line-up of celebratory set menus and premium festive delicacies is crafted to honour time-honoured traditions while embracing contemporary culinary finesse.

Led by Group Executive Chef Martin Foo, this year's Lunar New Year showcase spotlights premium ingredients, masterful cooking techniques, and signature presentations that reflect Crystal Jade's unwavering commitment to excellence. From auspicious Yu Sheng to nourishing soups, indulgent seafood highlights, and delicate festive desserts, the collection is thoughtfully designed for reunion gatherings, corporate celebrations, and intimate family feasts.

Premium Prosperity Yu Sheng with South African Abalone, Aburi Australian Scallop & Braised Cuttlefish ($129/$198). A festive essential elevated with premium ingredients, the Premium Prosperity Yu Sheng is refreshingly light and well-balanced on the palate. Pristine aburi Australian scallops are lightly torched for smokiness, while meaty South African abalone and Teochew-style braised cuttlefish symbolise prosperity and abundance.

Premium Prosperity Yu Sheng with South African Abalone, Aburi Australian Scallop & Braised Cuttlefish 4.5/5

The vibrant medley of fresh and home-pickled ingredients adds layers of texture and flavour — juicy pomelo segments and jewel-like dragon fruit cubes lend sweetness, while preserved ginger and orange peel provide an aromatic lift. Crunch comes from jellyfish 'head', homemade candied walnuts, shredded carrots, and mesclun leaves, all crowned with a generous mound of crispy deep-fried yam strips. The ensemble is brought together with a piquant roselle and yuzu-based dressing that adds a refreshing tang. Available at Crystal Jade Palace, Crystal Jade Golden Palace and Crystal Jade Pavilion for dine-in and takeaway.

Double-boiled Pork Ribs Broth with New Zealand Fish Maw and 'Stone Olive' 4.5/5

Double-boiled Pork Ribs Broth with New Zealand Fish Maw and 'Stone Olive' ($42/pax). Comforting yet luxurious, this deeply nourishing double-boiled broth features tender pork ribs, premium New Zealand fish maw, and the rare 'stone olive' — an ingredient that brings a subtle bittersweet complexity to the soup. The fish maw is impressively generous, offering a firm yet delightfully bouncy texture that soaks up the rich, slow-simmered essence of the broth. A soothing and restorative choice for festive indulgence. Available at Crystal Jade Golden Palace.

Steamed Western Australian Lobster with 20-Year Aged Huadiao, Egg White and Bonito Flake 4.2/5

Steamed Western Australian Lobster with 20-Year Aged Huadiao, Egg White and Bonito Flake ($30/100g). Showcasing pristine Western Australian lobster, this elegant dish is steamed atop a cloud of silken egg white, allowing the lobster's natural sweetness to shine. The addition of 20-year-aged Huadiao wine lends aromatic depth, while bonito flakes add a gentle umami lift. Delicate yet indulgent, it is a highlight for seafood lovers. Available at Crystal Jade Palace.

Braised Yellow Croaker with Crispy Dumpling in Red Wine Sauce 4.2/5

Braised Yellow Croaker with Crispy Dumpling in Red Wine Sauce ($58.80 for 600g). Delicate yellow croaker is braised in a glossy red wine sauce, resulting in tender flesh infused with rich, savoury notes. Served alongside house-made deep-fried wantons, the dish strikes a pleasing contrast between softness and crunch, making it a comforting yet celebratory addition to the festive spread. Available at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao.

Roasted French Spring Chicken with Truffle and Wild Mushroom 4.5/5

Roasted French Spring Chicken with Truffle and Wild Mushroom ($45 Whole Chicken). A classic done right, the roasted French Spring Chicken is tender and juicy, perfumed with the luxurious aroma of truffle and earthy wild mushrooms. Indulgent yet straightforward, this dish delivers comforting flavours elevated with a touch of finesse. Available at Crystal Jade Palace.

Wuchang Organic Glutinous Rice with Twin Prawns and Chinese Preserved Meats 4.2/5

Wuchang Organic Glutinous Rice with Twin Prawns and Chinese Preserved Meats ($48). Highly prized for its floral fragrance and pleasantly chewy texture, Wuchang organic glutinous rice from Heilongjiang is paired with tiger prawns, sakura ebi, and an assortment of Chinese preserved meats. The result is a fragrant, umami-rich dish that symbolises abundance and togetherness — a festive staple done with premium touches. Available at Crystal Jade Golden Palace.

Osmanthus Jasmine Jelly with Mango Passion Fruit Sorbet 4/5

Osmanthus Jasmine Jelly with Mango Passion Fruit Sorbet ($11.80/pax). A light and refreshing finale, the osmanthus jasmine jelly is delicately floral and gently sweet, paired with a vibrant mango and passion fruit sorbet that adds a tangy, tropical lift. Clean and palate-refreshing, it rounds off the meal beautifully. Available at Crystal Jade Pavilion.

Golden Pumpkin Prosperity Glutinous Rice Nian Gao 4.2/5

Golden Pumpkin Prosperity Glutinous Rice Nian Gao ($12.80 for 6pc). A beautifully composed festive treat, this traditional glutinous rice cake is sandwiched between layers of sweet golden pumpkin, offering a soft, chewy texture with gentle natural sweetness. Available at Crystal Jade Golden Palace.

Pistachio Coconut Water Chestnut Cake 4.5/5

Pistachio Coconut Water Chestnut Cake. A visually pleasing, tiered kueh featuring coconut and pistachio flavours studded with crunchy water chestnut bits. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing bite, or pan-fry until the edges turn lightly golden for added aroma. Available as part of the festive takeaway selection.

Prosperity Pumpkin Yuan Bao 4.2/5

Prosperity Pumpkin Yuan Bao ($9.90 for 3pc). Shaped like traditional gold ingots, these auspicious handmade sweet treats are crafted from pumpkin puree and symbolise wealth and good fortune for the year ahead. Available at Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen.

Lunar New Year dining will be available from 26 January to 3 March 2026 at participating Crystal Jade restaurants, featuring bespoke set menus for groups of two to ten. Festive takeaway specialities may be pre-ordered online at store.crystaljade.com and at individual outlets from 8 December 2025, with collection and delivery options available from 26 January to 3 March 2026.

Celebrate the Year of the Horse with Crystal Jade's thoughtfully crafted Lunar New Year offerings, where tradition meets refined culinary artistry.


Note: This is an invited tasting.