Paper Rice Vietnamese Kitchen @ Changi City Point - Discover Refreshed Taste of Authentic Vietnamese Flavours at The Renovated Space

Paper Rice Vietnamese Kitchen has unveiled its newly renovated space at Changi City Point, alongside a refreshed menu that dives deeper into the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam. Helmed by a native Vietnamese chef, the restaurant promises an immersive journey through more than 15 cities in Vietnam, offering dishes that are both authentic and beautifully executed. From hearty bowls of pho to light, vibrant salads, the new menu balances the comfort of street food with refined presentation.

Beef with Banana Blossom and Starfruit Salad 3.5/5

The Beef with Banana Blossom and Starfruit Salad ($11.90) kicks off the meal with a medley of vibrant colours and textures. Julienned banana blossoms are tossed with grilled beef rump slices, pickled radish, onions, mint leaves, and fresh starfruit, all bound together with a bright fish sauce dressing and finished with crushed peanuts. It’s a symphony of flavours comprising sweet, sour, tangy, and umami that play harmoniously on the palate. Light yet deeply flavourful, it’s a perfect appetiser to whet the appetite.

Hue Minced Pork Lemongrass Skewers 4/5

Inspired by the central Vietnamese city of Hue, the Minced Pork Lemongrass Skewers ($11.90) are fragrant and juicy. The pork, subtly laced with lemongrass, is grilled and served with rice vermicelli, purple lettuce, and a side of Vietnamese peanut sauce. While the bitterness of the purple lettuce may not appeal to everyone, wrapping the pork with the noodles and sauce brings balance and richness to each bite. A playful, hands-on dish that encourages diners to customise their bites.

Vietnamese Crepe (Banh Xeo) 3.5/5

The Vietnamese Crepe ($16.90) is a crispy egg crepe folded over a generous filling of bean sprouts, yellow mung beans, onions, and spring onions. We had the seafood version, but you can also choose from grilled pork belly, chicken, or mushrooms. Served with fresh herbs and a tangy fish sauce for dipping, each bite brings crunch, freshness, and a gentle richness from the crepe itself. A classic Vietnamese street food favourite that’s executed with finesse.

Wagyu Waterfall Beef Pho 4/5

One of the most visually arresting dishes on the menu is the Wagyu Waterfall Beef Pho ($34.90). Premium Wagyu beef slices are served hanging dramatically over a steaming bowl of pho, before being fire-torched at the table by the staff. The thin slices are then dipped into the slow-cooked beef bone broth, where they finish cooking to perfection. Silky rice noodles, a robust yet clean broth, and tender beef make this bowl of pho as comforting as it is luxurious. Served with crisp vegetables on fried rice paper, it’s a feast for the eyes and palate.

Banana Sago in Coconut Creme 4/5

BTo end the meal on a high note, the Banana Sago in Coconut Crème ($5.90) is a creamy, comforting dessert. The base of rich coconut cream holds chewy tapioca pearls and slices of caramelised banana, topped with chopped nuts for added texture. Sweet, nutty, and lightly aromatic, it’s a fitting conclusion to a flavour-packed Vietnamese meal.

With its refreshed interiors and thoughtfully curated menu, Paper Rice Vietnamese Kitchen at Changi City Point succeeds in offering a slice of Vietnam right here in Singapore. The blend of street-style favourites and premium touches such like the show-stopping Wagyu Pho, makes it suitable for both casual lunches and special occasions. Whether you're a fan of bold, spicy salads or comforting broths, there's something on the menu that’ll transport you straight to the streets of Hanoi or Saigon.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Paper Rice Vietnamese Kitchen
Changi City Point
5 Changi Business Park Central 1
#B1-27
Singapore 486038
Tel: +65 6443 1261
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Nearest MRT: Expo (EW, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Expo MRT station. Take Exit B, E or F. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) @ Punggol Coast Mall - New Outlet, 3 Exciting New Dished and Exclusive Merchandise

The iconic Taiwanese restaurant Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐), beloved for its artfully handmade Xiao Long Bao, has opened a brand-new outlet at Punggol Coast Mall. To mark this occasion, Din Tai Fung has unveiled three brand-new dishes, now available at all outlets across Singapore. Available for dine-in, takeaway and delivery via Deliveroo, Foodpanda and GrabFood.

Adding an extra touch of excitement, the Punggol Coast branch is the first in Singapore to carry Din Tai Fung's exclusive retail merchandise, specially imported from Taiwan. Fans can now bring home charming collectables like the Din Tai Fung Chopsticks 平安筷, Mascot Plush Toys 包仔娃娃, Enamel Pins 微章 and more, perfect for gifting or as a souvenir for loyal diners.

Noodle with Crispy Wanton in Spicy Sauce 3/5

The new Noodle with Crispy Wanton in Spicy Sauce ($15.30) is tossed in a bold, spicy sauce and topped with crispy wantons. The noodles are springy and cooked to the ideal bite. However, we found the sauce to be a bit milder than expected, lacking the robust, aromatic heat that we had hoped for. The wantons add a textural crunch, but their petite size leaves more to be desired. It's a decent dish, but it could be more impactful in terms of flavour.

Black Sesame Mochi Xiao Long Bao 2.8/5

We were especially eager to try this dessert twist on Din Tai Fung's famous Xiao Long Bao. The Black Sesame Mochi Xiao Long Bao ($25.60 for 6 pc) is filled with fragrant, nutty black sesame and mochi. While the filling is aromatic and indulgent, the thick skin makes it rather challenging to chew. We recommend eating it immediately while piping hot, which helps slightly with texture, but be cautious as the filling can be scalding. It's a fun concept, but the execution didn't quite meet our expectations.

Steamed Chinese Style Layered Cake with Chocolate Dipping Sauce 3/5

This East-meets-West dessert combines a classic Chinese Steamed Layered Cake ($5.80/2pcs) with a side of Chocolate Dipping Sauce ($3, currently $2 from 1 May to 30 June). The cake itself has a unique texture, falling somewhere between a Chinese sponge cake and fluffy bread, with a subtle sweetness. When paired with the not-too-sweet chocolate sauce, it creates a comforting and unexpected fusion of flavours. It's a fun dessert to share, especially for those curious to try something different.

Oriental Salad 4/5

Pork Xiao Long Bao 3.8/5

Two staples we can't skip at Din Tai Fung are the Oriental Salad ($6) and Pork Xiao Long Bao ($12.80 for 10 pieces). The Oriental Salad is refreshing and crunchy, lightly tossed in a tangy sesame dressing that awakens the palate, always the perfect starter. As for the Pork Xiao Long Bao, it's what Din Tai Fung is famous for, with each dumpling meticulously pleated, filled with a juicy pork filling and a burst of flavourful broth. While the skin was slightly thicker than usual on our visit, it remains a comforting classic that satisfies every time.

Prawn Pancake 4/5

If you haven't tried the Prawn Pancake ($11.80), you're missing out. This crispy, golden delight is packed with chunky prawn paste and pan-fried to perfection. It's crunchy on the outside, succulent inside and incredibly addictive.

Shrimp Fried Rice 4/5

Pork Chop Fried Rice 4/5

Din Tai Fung's fried rice consistently meets your expectations, whether it's the Shrimp Fried Rice ($15) or the Pork Chop Fried Rice ($14.30); it never disappoints. Both versions feature fluffy, fragrant egg fried rice. The Shrimp Fried Rice is generously topped with fresh, bouncy shrimp, while the Pork Chop Fried Rice comes with a well-seasoned pork chop that's juicy and tender. Either option delivers on flavour and comfort, making them our top picks for a hearty main.

Located in the brand-new Punggol Coast Mall, this Din Tai Fung outlet offers a bright and spacious dining environment that’s perfect for a relaxing meal. Drop by whether you’re here to check out their newest dishes or stock up on adorable Din Tai Fung merch.

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


Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
Punggol Coast Mall
88 Punggol Way
#01-126/127
Singapore 829913
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Nearest MRT: Punggol Coast (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sun: 11am - 915pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Punggol Coast MRT station. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Hortus @ Gardens by The Bay Flower Dome - New Mediterranean Sharing Menu Comprising of 9 Dishes

Nestled within the lush beauty of Gardens by the Bay's Flower Dome, Hortus offers diners a taste of the Mediterranean, surrounded by vibrant blooms and cool serenity. With its focus on fresh, vibrant sharing plates and rustic wood-grilled mains, Hortus presents an experience that goes beyond the food—especially with its newly launched Mediterranean Sharing Set Menu ($68++ per pax), which even includes complimentary Flower Dome admission and a buggy ride to and from the Main Entrance. A perfect little getaway without leaving Singapore!

Hummus, Olive Oil and Paprika 4.8/5

Muhammara, Roasted Bell Pepper and Walnut Dip 4.5/5

The meal kicks off with an array of five sharing starters. The Hummus with Olive Oil and Paprika was an instant hit — creamy, nutty, and elevated by the earthiness of paprika and a generous drizzle of olive oil. It is paired beautifully with the warm, fluffy housemade pita. Equally delightful was the Muhammara, a roasted bell pepper and walnut dip that was slightly smoky, nutty, and tangy — a deliciously vibrant alternative to the classic hummus.

Fried School Prawns, Calamari, Whitebait with Lemon Aioli 4.5/5

Next up was the Fried Seafood Basket, featuring school prawns, calamari, and whitebait, all perfectly crispy and light, paired with a zesty lemon aioli. It was dangerously addictive, with each piece a burst of flavour and crunch.

Yellowtail Kingfish Crudo 4.8/5

The Yellowtail Kingfish Crudo was a standout among the starters. Dressed with bergamot and green olives and scattered with pomegranate seeds, it was refreshingly bright, delicately sweet, and brimming with Mediterranean sunshine.

Kingfish Collar with Cabbage and Fennel Salad and Nduja 4.2/5

Moving on to the mains, we tried the Kingfish Collar with Cabbage and Fennel Salad and Nduja. Grilled to crispy perfection on the outside while keeping the flesh moist and tender, the kingfish was livened up beautifully by a squeeze of lemon and the spicy kick from the nduja. The accompanying salad of cabbage and fennel provided a refreshing counterpoint.

Beef and Lamb Adana Kebab with Sumac Onions 4.2/5

We also sampled the Beef and Lamb Adana Kebab with Sumac Onions. Typically, kebabs can veer on the dry side, but Hortus' version was juicy, aromatic, and full of flavour. The sweet and tangy sumac onions on top brought a much-appreciated brightness to the hearty meat skewer.

Cracked Wheat Salad with Dill, Mint, and Pomegranate 4.2/5

Rice Pilaf with Pistachio and Lemon 4.5/5

To complement the mains, we had the Cracked Wheat Salad and the Rice Pilaf with Pistachio and Lemon. Both were excellent — the cracked wheat salad was herby and fresh with pops of pomegranate, while the rice pilaf was light, fragrant, and enhanced by the nuttiness of pistachios and citrusy lemon.

House churned Vanilla Gelato, Halva, Tahini 4.5/5

Desserts were a true surprise and delight. The House Churned Vanilla Gelato, paired with halva, tahini, pomegranate syrup, and mint, was a symphony of textures and flavours — sweet, nutty, creamy, and refreshing all at once.

Rose and Cardamom Basbousa 4.5/5

The final treat, Rose and Cardamom Basbousa, sealed the meal on a high note. The moist semolina cake, topped with house churned pistachio gelato and cardamom cream, offered a beautiful blend of floral and nutty flavours that was both comforting and exotic.

Hortus isn't just a restaurant — it's an experience. The combination of fresh Mediterranean flavours, an idyllic garden setting, and thoughtful touches like complimentary entry and transport make it a memorable destination dining spot. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a leisurely meal with a view, Hortus delivers in every way.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hortus
Flower Dome
Gardens by the Bay
18 Marina Garden Drive
#01-09
Singapore 018953
Tel: +65 6702 0158
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Nearest MRT: Bayfront MRT

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 330pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit B. Take the pathway to Bayfront Plaza Ticketing. Take for the shuttle bus to flower dome or walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Cavern Restaurant @ Rainforest Wild ASIA - Singapore's First and Only Restaurant in a Cave

Tucked away within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve's new Rainforest Wild ASIA, Cavern Restaurant is the latest concept by the TungLok Group. Designed to resemble the Mulu Caves of Sarawak, one of Southeast Asia's largest and most intricate cave systems, the restaurant offers a unique dining setting surrounded by rugged rock formations and lush greenery. Its location near the entrance of this new attraction makes it a convenient and immersive stop for visitors looking to relax and enjoy a meal in an environment that feels like a natural extension of the rainforest.

Crystal Cave Salad 4/5

The Crystal Cave Salad ($22) is a vibrant and refreshing start to the meal. A creamy Spanish burrata sits at the heart of the dish, paired beautifully with heirloom beetroot in both classic red and golden hues. The truffle honey dressing lends a luxurious touch, while toasted walnuts provide a delightful crunch, elevating the salad's texture and flavour.

Stone Hearth Loaf 3.5/5

Freshly baked in-house, the Stone Hearth Loaf ($12) boasts a crispy crust and a chewy, tangy interior, making it an excellent companion to the meal. The bread's rustic charm shines through, especially when paired with dips or butter.

Emerald Canopy 3.5/5

For a lighter, crisp alternative, the Emerald Canopy ($12) features romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy green goddess dressing, punctuated with the peppery bite of fresh radish. It's simple yet refreshing.

Spicy Wing 3.5/5

The Spicy Wing ($16 for 4pcs) isn't particularly fiery despite its name. However, the blue cheese dip served alongside — its pungent creaminess balances out any lingering heat, though its strong flavour might not appeal to everyone.

Pulled Pork Taco 3.8/5

The Pulled Pork Taco ($22 for 3pcs) impresses with its succulent, slow-cooked pork infused with deep, smoky flavours. The buttery avocado and smoky paprika aioli add layers of creaminess and spice, all encased within a soft, pillowy taco shell. Every bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavours, making it one of the best offerings on the menu.

Smouldering Core 3.8/5

A much-improved version from its original, the Smouldering Core ($20) features charred cauliflower, halved and grilled to perfection. The barbecue sauce glaze on the exterior adds a smoky richness, while the garlic aioli and pickles inside provide a creamy, tangy contrast. It's visually stunning and finished with microgreens and edible flowers, giving it an elegant touch.

Rigatoni Alla Vodka 3.5/5

The Rigatoni Alla Vodka ($22) delivers al dente pasta bathed in a tangy tomato-based sauce topped with micro greens and parmesan cheese. While the flavours are pleasant, I wished for a more generous amount of sauce to better coat each piece of rigatoni.

Caveman's Meat Skewer 3/5

A dish for meat lovers, the Caveman's Meat Skewer ($38) features 200g of beef tenderloin, button mushrooms, shallots, and peppers, paired with chimichurri sauce. While well-cooked, the dish feels ordinary, lacking a standout element to truly impress.

Ironstrike Knuckle 3.5/5

More satisfying than the skewer, the Ironstrike Knuckle ($28) is braised to fork-tender perfection, allowing the meat to fall apart effortlessly. Served with a mustard jus, the bold, tangy sauce enhances the richness of the pork, making it a comforting and well-executed dish.

Pandan Bambolini 3/5

For dessert, we indulged in the Pandan Bambolini ($6 per piece) — a fried doughnut filled with kaya. The kaya itself is outstanding, bursting with fragrant pandan and coconut flavours, but the execution was inconsistent. Some pieces had barely any filling, leaving the dough too dry to enjoy fully. When balanced correctly, however, it's an aromatic and indulgent end to the meal.

It’s important to set the right expectations at Cavern Restaurant. It isn’t about fine dining but rather a place designed to cater to the large volume of visitors, families, and tourists exploring the attraction. The menu is curated to be approachable and crowd-friendly, ensuring a quick and satisfying meal for guests of all ages.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Cavern Restaurant
Rainforest Wild ASIA
20 Mandai Lake Road
Singapore 729825
Tel: +65 60220229
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Nearest MRT: Springleaf (TE Line), Choa Chu Kang (NS Line), Khatib (NS Line)

1) Alight at Springleaf MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk to bus stop opposite Thong Soon Road (Stop ID 56091). Take bus number 138. Alight 12 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 25 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Choa Chu Kang MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Choa Chu Kang Bus Interchange (Stop ID 44009). Take bus number 927. Alight 16 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 30 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Khatib MRT station. Take the Mandai Khatib Shuttle Bus (not free). Journey time about 30 minutes. [Map]