SAM SAM SAM (삼삼삼) @ Novena Square - A Body-Matched Samgyetang Experience Inspired by Korean Herbal Medicine

With the growing number of samgyetang restaurants popping up in Singapore, SAM SAM SAM (삼삼삼) at Novena Square takes a slightly different approach. Rather than simply serving traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup, the restaurant positions itself as Singapore’s first samgyetang concept, developed in consultation with licensed Traditional Korean Medicine doctors, with each variation designed around a different wellness focus.

Stepping into SAM SAM SAM feels like travelling back to 1980s Seoul. The space is styled after a traditional Korean herbal medicine shop, complete with a nostalgic retro aesthetic that ties in nicely with the restaurant’s focus on Korean herbal traditions.

The name SAM SAM SAM (삼삼삼) carries a double meaning. “Sam” refers to the number three, symbolising balance in East Asian culture, while “insam” (인삼) is the Korean word for ginseng. Together, the name reflects the brand’s philosophy of nourishment, balance and shared dining. At the heart of the menu is, of course, samgyetang — whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, jujube and garlic, then slow-cooked until the meat is tender and the broth takes on all the flavours of the ingredients.

Immunity Black Samgyetang 4.2/5

The Immunity Black Samgyetang ($32) is the most intense and robust variation on the menu, built around slow-aged black garlic from Uiseong. The broth has a deeper, more savoury character than traditional samgyetang, with the black garlic lending mellow sweetness and layered umami without becoming overly heavy. The unmistakable herbal aroma of ginseng and other botanicals still comes through, giving the soup a comforting depth. The whole young chicken comes generously stuffed with glutinous rice, jujube, garlic and Korean ginseng. After being slow-cooked, the chicken is incredibly tender, while the glutinous rice absorbs plenty of the fragrant broth. This is probably the bowl to choose if you prefer your samgyetang with a richer, more pronounced flavour.

Circulation Elixir 4/5

For something lighter, the Circulation Elixir ($29) offers a more delicate interpretation of samgyetang. The broth is light and highly aromatic, with subtle notes of ginseng, traditional herbs and goji berries. Compared to the black garlic version, this feels cleaner and less intense, allowing the herbal fragrance to come through more prominently. The collagen-rich broth comes with the same tender whole young chicken and comforting glutinous rice, making it an easy-to-eat bowl even if you are not accustomed to stronger herbal flavours.

Water Parsley Pancake 4.2/5

The Water Parsley Pancake ($14) was one of my favourite sides. Made with an abundant amount of Korean water parsley, or minari, the pancake is lightly battered and pan-fried until fragrant and crisp around the edges. Rather than being thick and doughy, it has a lighter texture, with plenty of fresh greens giving it a crunchy bite. The minari brings a bright, herbaceous and slightly peppery flavour that works particularly well alongside the rich, herbal chicken soups. It adds a nice textural contrast and freshness to the meal.

Market-Style Tofu & Kimchi 4/5

The Market-Style Tofu & Kimchi ($12) is a simple but comforting combination of warm tofu and stir-fried kimchi. Thick slices of tofu are served warm, silky and mild, providing a clean canvas for the more assertive kimchi. The stir-fried cabbage is savoury, tangy and slightly spicy, with enough seasoning to keep things interesting without overpowering the tofu. It is a lighter option than the fried sides and pairs well with the samgyetang.

Spicy Jan Kalguksu 4.2/5

If chicken soup with glutinous rice isn’t quite enough to fill you up, the Spicy Jan Kalguksu ($27) offers a more substantial noodle option. The dish combines a rich ginseng chicken soup base with house-made Korean chilli paste (jang), giving the broth a fiery kick while retaining the herbal chicken backbone underneath. I enjoyed the hand-pulled, knife-cut kalguksu noodles most. They have a silky yet springy, chewy texture that holds up well against the thicker, spicy broth. The heat is noticeable, but it is balanced by the savoury chicken broth and herbal notes. Definitely one for those who enjoy their Korean noodle soups with a bit more fire.

Ginger Ade, Jujube Ade $6

To wash everything down, we had the Ginger Ade ($6) and Jujube Ade ($6). The Ginger Ade is bold and zesty, with the natural warmth and slight pungency of ginger balanced by sweetness and sparkling carbonation. Served ice-cold, it provides a refreshing contrast to the piping-hot samgyetang. The Jujube Ade is gentler, naturally sweet and fruity, with the mellow caramel-like character of Korean red dates coming through. Both are refreshing choices, especially when paired with the rich, warming dishes.

SAM SAM SAM offers a different take on the samgyetang experience in Singapore by bringing together traditional Korean herbal food culture, a nostalgic 1980s Seoul-inspired setting and its body-matched approach to the menu.

I enjoyed the Immunity Black Samgyetang for its deeper black garlic flavour. At the same time, the Water Parsley Pancake stood out as a particularly enjoyable side with its crispy texture and fresh herbaceous bite. The Spicy Jan Kalguksu is also worth considering if you prefer noodles and a more fiery bowl of soup.

With its focus on chicken, ginseng, jujube and carefully selected botanicals, SAM SAM SAM is not just about having a comforting bowl of samgyetang, but also about exploring the traditional Korean idea of food as nourishment and balance.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


SAM SAM SAM (삼삼삼)
Velocity @ Novena Square
238 Thomason Road
#02-46
Singapore 307683
Tel: +65 8807 3806
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Website
Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Kimpson's Table @ Far East Square - From Home-Based Delivery to Full-fledged Restaurant

Ten years after arriving in Singapore from Korea, Chef Patrick Kim is embarking on a new chapter with the opening of Kimpson’s Table at Far East Square. What started as a humble home-based delivery business has now evolved into Chef Kim’s first permanent restaurant, bringing his take on comforting Korean home-style cooking to the heart of the CBD. Drawing inspiration from the convivial atmosphere of traditional Korean eateries and the contemporary energy of Seoul’s Seongsu district, Kimpson’s Table centres on Hansang dining — a Korean tradition where rice, nourishing mains, and an assortment of freshly prepared banchan come together as a complete, satisfying meal. The menu is rooted in familiar Korean flavours, but what stood out to me was Chef Kim’s focus on dishes that are comforting, wholesome and made with plenty of care. Here are some of the dishes we tried.

Dak Kalguksu 4.2/5

One dish I enjoyed was the Dak Kalguksu ($15), which makes its debut at Kimpson’s Table. For those unfamiliar, Kalguksu is a traditional Korean noodle dish featuring hand-cut wheat noodles served in a comforting broth. Chef Kim describes it as the Korean cousin of Singapore’s ban mee, and I can see why. The noodles have that pleasant, chewy bite, while the warm chicken broth makes the dish especially comforting. The broth itself gives Dak Kalguksu more depth. It is made using the same signature chicken broth as Chef Kim’s Samgyetang, simmered for up to five hours with a combination of ingredients to extract a rich, savoury flavour. The noodles are served with shredded chicken and leeks, keeping the bowl relatively simple and letting the broth take centre stage. Despite its simplicity, it has a satisfying depth, with the tender chicken adding texture and substance to every mouthful. It is the sort of bowl that feels particularly comforting on a rainy day — warm, nourishing and uncomplicated.

Dak Bibim Kalguksu 4/5

If you prefer something with more punch, the Dak Bibim Kalguksu ($15) offers a dry and more intensely flavoured take on the dish. The same hand-cut wheat noodles are tossed in Chef Kim’s house-made sauce, which includes gochujang and a blend of other ingredients. The noodles are then topped with shredded chicken, cucumber and sesame seeds. Compared to the soup version, this has a much bolder personality. The sauce brings a savoury and mildly spicy kick, balanced by a touch of sweetness, while the fresh cucumber cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing crunch. The chewy noodles also work particularly well with the sauce, making this a satisfying option for those who enjoy their Korean food with a little more heat and flavour.

Samgyetang 4/5

The Samgyetang ($18) remains the signature dish at Kimpson’s Table and is the very dish that helped build Chef Kim’s following during his home-based days. The bowl comes with half a French chicken immersed in a nourishing broth simmered for up to five hours with ingredients such as red dates, garlic, and ginseng. The chicken is tender and falls easily from the bone, while the broth has a gentle herbal character without being overly heavy or medicinal. Despite the long cooking process and rich ingredients, it remains surprisingly light and easy to drink. Interestingly, this very broth also forms the foundation of the Dak Kalguksu, creating a nice connection between the two dishes. For me, Chef Kim’s Samgyetang appeals because of its simplicity. No excessive seasoning or embellishment, just tender chicken and a deeply flavoured broth that feels wholesome and comforting.

Boneless Fried Chicken 4.2/5

Of course, no Korean meal feels quite complete without fried chicken. Kimpson’s Table offers its Boneless Fried Chicken in four flavours — Original ($15), Yangnyeom ($16), Soy Garlic ($16) and the new Bburinkle Cheese ($17). We tried the Original and Soy Garlic flavours. The bite-sized boneless pieces are fried until golden and crisp on the outside, while staying juicy and tender inside. The Original lets the fried chicken itself take centre stage, with a light, savoury seasoning that makes it dangerously easy to keep reaching for another piece. The Soy Garlic, meanwhile, brings a more pronounced savoury sweetness, with the fragrant garlic complementing the crispy chicken nicely. For those who enjoy more adventurous Korean fried chicken flavours, the Bburinkle Cheese is also worth checking out. Meanwhile, the Yangnyeom should appeal to fans of the classic sweet-and-spicy Korean fried chicken combination.

Potato Pancake 4/5

The Potato Pancake ($12) is a simple but enjoyable addition to the table. Pan-fried to order, it comes with a crisp, golden exterior while retaining a softer, more tender centre. A pleasant potato sweetness peeks out from beneath the savoury crust, making it a good sharing dish alongside the other stronger-flavoured items.

Cheese Potato Pancake 4/5

For something a little more indulgent, the Cheese Potato Pancake ($14) takes the same potato pancake and adds a layer of cheesy richness. The crisp edges and soft potato interior work well with the melted cheese, giving the pancake a moreish quality without making it overly heavy. There is also a Kimchi Pancake ($12) available for those who prefer something with a tangier and more savoury kick. Freshly pan-fried to order, the trio of pancakes makes for easy sharing and rounds out the meal nicely.

What I enjoyed about Kimpson’s Table is that the food does not try too hard to reinvent Korean cuisine. Instead, Chef Patrick Kim focuses on familiar dishes that are comforting, nourishing and rooted in the flavours he grew up with. The introduction of Dak Kalguksu is particularly interesting, especially for diners who may not have tried this Korean staple before. Its broth, made from the same painstakingly prepared stock used for the signature Samgyetang, also gives the menu a sense of continuity. With its Hansang-inspired approach to dining, Kimpson’s Table feels suited for both casual meals and gatherings where dishes are shared around the table. From comforting bowls of noodles and Samgyetang to crispy fried chicken and freshly made pancakes, the menu offers a strong mix of hearty, approachable Korean favourites.

Note: This is an invited tasting.



Kimpson’s Table
Far East Square
134 Amoy Street
#01-01
Singapore 049963
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 5:30pm - 9pm
Sat: 12pm - 7pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road and walk to The Clan Hotel. Go around the corner of the hotel and walk to the lane behind. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Song Gye Ok @ The Centrepoint - Hearty Samgyetang and Kalguksu for Lunch

Song Gye Ok has expanded its presence in Singapore with a new outlet at The Centrepoint. Better known for its bustling dinner crowd and focus on BBQ and yakitori, it offers a more laid-back lunchtime experience in the afternoon. Designed with the working crowd in mind, the menu leans towards hearty yet comforting dishes that are satisfying without being overly heavy — ideal for executives seeking a quick but fulfilling midday meal.

Truffle Samgyetang 4.2/5

One highlight that may come as a surprise is the availability of Samgyetang from MODU. Here, the selection is streamlined into four distinct flavours — Collagen Herbal, Hangover, Perilla Seed, and Truffle — each catering to different preferences. We tried the Truffle Samgyetang ($46), an exclusive flavour at Song Gye Ok. The chicken was fork-tender, effortlessly falling off the bone, and soaked in a creamy, collagen-rich broth. Subtle ginseng notes provided a familiar herbal depth, while the addition of truffle lent an earthy aroma that elevated the dish into something more indulgent yet still comforting.

Assorted Mushroom Fries 4/5

For something lighter, the Assorted Mushroom Fries ($14) made for a delightful side. An assortment of mushrooms was coated in a delicate tempura batter and fried to a crisp golden brown. Each bite offered a satisfying crunch, giving way to juicy interiors that retained the mushrooms’ natural flavours and texture.

Dakgomtang 3.5/5

The Dakgomtang ($28) presented as a complete set with kimchi and salad. The soup, simmered for 12 hours using a whole spring chicken, is the true star. Clean yet deeply flavourful, the broth carries a natural richness from its collagen content, resulting in a comforting bowl that feels both nourishing and satisfying. Accompanying the soup is a plate of rice topped with charcoal-grilled half-roasted chicken, adding a smoky dimension that complements the broth’s lightness.

Perilla & Ongshimi Kalguksu 4/5

Rounding out the menu is the Signature Kalguksu Korean Hand-cut Noodles, a staple for those seeking something warm and soothing. The noodles are served in a carefully prepared broth made with fresh ingredients and house-made stock, delivering a clean, balanced flavour profile. Diners can choose from four variations — Truffle Kalguksu, Perilla & Ongshimi Kalguksu, Collagen Kalguksu, and Hangover Kalguksu — each offering a slightly different depth and character.

We opted for the Perilla & Ongshimi Kalguksu ($24), which stood out for its rich and comforting profile. The hand-cut noodles had a delightful bite, with a slight chew that made each mouthful satisfying. The broth, thickened with perilla seeds, was nutty and creamy, coating each strand of noodle beautifully for slurp-worthy goodness. It is a deeply comforting bowl that leans towards a more robust, hearty flavour than the other variations.

Earl Grey Highball and Ginseng Highball 3/5

To complement the meal, the Earl Grey Highball ($16) and Ginseng Highball ($16) make a light, refreshing pairing. Each is crafted using whisky infused with its respective ingredient, topped with sparkling water and a twist of lemon. The result is a clean, aromatic drink that is easy to sip, making it a suitable choice even for a casual lunch setting.

Overall, lunch at Song Gye Ok presents a refreshing alternative to its dining experience. With its focus on nourishing soups, hearty mains, and approachable flavours, it caters well to the lunch crowd looking for something both convenient and comforting. Whether it’s a quick solo meal or a casual lunch gathering, the menu strikes a thoughtful balance between indulgence and simplicity.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Song Gye Ok
The Centrepoint
176 Orchard Road
#02-53/54
Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 8088 3850
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11:30am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT Station. Take Exit C. Walk to Orchard Road. Cross the road. Turn right onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

JIHO Samgyetang SBCD @ Cross Street Exchange - 35-Year Korean Ginseng Chicken Heritage Arrives in Singapore

Tucked away in the basement of 18 Cross Street, JIHO Samgyetang marks its first international outpost in Singapore, bringing with it over three decades of heritage in Korean herbal cuisine. Founded in 1991 by Dr Lee Ji-ho, the brand has built a strong reputation across Korea and beyond for its dedication to hanbang (traditional herbal medicine) cooking, particularly its signature samgyetang. Backed by SBCD F&B Group, known locally for its speciality Korean concepts, JIHO’s arrival introduces a wellness-driven take on Korean comfort food to the CBD dining scene.

At the heart of JIHO’s menu is its patented herbal blends and the use of young, tender chickens, slow-simmered to extract maximum nourishment. Unlike the robust and sometimes intense ginseng broths found elsewhere, JIHO’s rendition leans towards a cleaner, more refined profile — making it especially appealing for modern diners seeking both flavour and health benefits.

Beauty Samgyetang 4/5

We began with the Beauty Samgyetang ($29.80), a signature offering tailored for skin health and vitality. Served piping hot, the young spring chicken is exceptionally tender, with meat that gently falls off the bone. Hidden within is a stuffing of glutinous rice, fully infused with the essence of the herbal broth. The soup itself is light yet deeply comforting, silky on the palate with a delicate sweetness from red dates and ginseng, without veering into overly medicinal territory. It’s a restorative bowl that feels indulgent yet nourishing, perfect for a midday recharge in the bustling CBD.

Squid & Minari Salad (Avocado & Seaweed) 4.2/5

A refreshing contrast comes in the form of the Squid & Minari Salad ($29.80). This vibrant dish showcases tender squid paired with crisp minari (water dropwort), offering a fresh, herbaceous bite. The addition of creamy avocado lends a modern twist, balancing the spicy-sweet dressing with its buttery richness. Diners are encouraged to wrap the ingredients in seaweed sheets to create a harmonious bite that is smoky, zesty, and texturally dynamic. It’s an excellent communal dish that cuts through the richness of the mains.

Perilla Samgyejuk 4/5

For something heartier and more fuss-free, the Perilla Samgyejuk ($32.80) is a comforting alternative. Instead of a whole chicken, this dish features shredded chicken in a thick porridge base. The inclusion of finely ground perilla seeds elevates the dish, lending it a nutty aroma and a velvety consistency. Each spoonful is rich and satisfying, with a rustic depth that complements the savoury chicken notes. Its hearty, “stick-to-your-ribs” quality makes it especially comforting on a rainy day or when you need something soothing yet substantial.

Vegan Fried Dumpling 4.5/5

Rounding out the meal is the Vegan Fried Dumpling ($15.80), a surprisingly standout side. Deep-fried to a golden crisp, the dumplings boast a thin, delicate skin that shatters lightly with each bite. Inside, a well-seasoned filling of glass noodles and vegetables delivers a satisfying savoury profile without any greasiness. It’s a simple yet well-executed dish that provides a delightful textural contrast to the otherwise soup-centric menu, and a thoughtful inclusion for plant-based diners.

JIHO Hanbang Samgyetang’s entry into Singapore offers a refreshing perspective on Korean cuisine — one that centres on wellness without compromising on flavour. With its refined broths, quality ingredients, and comforting dishes, it stands out as a destination for those seeking nourishing meals in the heart of the city. Whether you’re looking for a restorative lunch or a wholesome dining experience, JIHO delivers a bowl of tradition with a modern, health-conscious touch.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


JIHO Samgyetang SBCD
Cross Street Exchange
18 Cross Street
#B1-01
Singapore 048423
Tel: +65 8242 6988
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk down Cross Street. Walk to Capri by Fraser. Locate the escalator beside Capri by Fraser. Take it down to the basement. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to the traffic junction of Cross Street and South Bridge Road. Cross the road. Walk to Capri by Fraser. Locate the escalator beside Capri by Fraser. Take it down to the basement. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Namu Bulgogi @ Hillion Mall - Launches Singapore’s Largest Halal Samgyetang Range with 9 Variations

Namu Bulgogi, the halal-certified Korean concept known for its bold flavours and accessible dining, returns with a compelling new reason to visit — the launch of Singapore’s largest authentic halal-certified samgyetang range. With nine variations priced under $30, the new menu explores both traditional roots and modern interpretations of Korea’s iconic ginseng chicken soup, as well as a refreshed tongdak-gui offering.

Signature Wild Mushroom Samgyetang

A standout among the line-up, the Signature Wild Mushroom Samgyetang ($27.90++) layers shiitake, enoki and shimeji into a deeply earthy broth. The result is a comforting bowl rich in natural umami, with each sip carrying a lingering savouriness that feels both hearty and restorative. The mushrooms lend body and depth, complementing the tender chicken stuffed with glutinous rice and giving the dish a nourishing, almost therapeutic quality.

Traditional Hanbang Samgyetang

For purists, the Traditional Hanbang Samgyetang ($25.90++) delivers exactly what one would expect from this time-honoured dish. The clear, slow-simmered broth is clean yet flavourful, drawing sweetness from the chicken and the subtle bitterness of premium ginseng. It’s light on the palate but deeply comforting, the kind of dish often associated with recovery and daily wellness in Korean culture.

Perilla Samgyetang

The Perilla Samgyetang ($29.90++) introduces a distinctive herbal dimension. The generous addition of perilla leaves imparts a nutty, slightly minty aroma that lingers pleasantly. It is a more acquired profile, but one that feels soothing and fragrant, offering a refreshing departure from the usual richness of samgyetang.

Black Garlic Samgyetang

The Black Garlic Samgyetang ($29.90++) leans towards a richer, more robust flavour profile. The black garlic infuses the broth with a gentle sweetness and caramelised depth, creating a fuller-bodied soup that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Seafood Samgyetang

Blending surf and turf, the Seafood Samgyetang (29.90++) introduces a briny sweetness into the classic format. The seafood elements elevate the broth with an added layer of umami, making it taste more complex while still retaining the comforting essence of traditional samgyetang.

Black Sesame Chestnut Samgyetang

Creamy and nutty, the Black Sesame Chestnut Samgyetang ($27.90++) stands out for its unique texture. The broth is thicker and more velvety, with the nuttiness of black sesame and chestnut coming through distinctly. It’s a heartier variation that feels especially satisfying.

Tomato Collagen Samgyetang

A modern twist, the Tomato Collagen Samgyetang ($27.90++) introduces a subtle tang from sun-ripened tomatoes. The broth takes on a slightly brighter profile, cutting through the richness while maintaining a smooth, collagen-rich consistency.

Kimchi Samgyetang 

The Kimchi Samgyetang ($27.90++) brings a punchy, tangy edge to the table. The aged kimchi paste adds acidity and spice, lifting the overall flavour and making it particularly appetising. It’s a bold reinterpretation that will appeal to those who enjoy stronger flavours.

Tongdak-gui

Beyond soups, Namu Bulgogi continues to impress with its refined Tongdak-gui, now more accessible from $23.90++. The whole rotisserie chicken is stuffed generously with glutinous rice, ginseng, jujube and shiitake mushrooms — echoing the essence of samgyetang but presented in a roasted format.

What sets it apart is the oakwood smoke-grilling technique. The slow, steady burn imparts a delicate smokiness with a subtle vanilla-like sweetness, resulting in a beautifully crisp, lightly charred skin. Beneath it, the meat remains tender and juicy, easily falling off the bone. The stuffing absorbs the rich juices from the chicken, making it just as enjoyable as the meat itself.

With this extensive samgyetang line-up, Namu Bulgogi successfully bridges tradition and innovation, offering something for both purists and adventurous diners. The variety ensures that each visit can feel different, whether you’re seeking a classic restorative bowl or a modern, flavour-forward interpretation. Coupled with the well-executed tongdak-gui, the refreshed menu reinforces the brand’s position as a go-to spot for comforting, halal Korean fare in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Namu Bulgogi
Hillion Mall
17 Petir Road
#B2-55/56
Singapore 678278
Tel: +65 90211427
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Nearest MRT: Bukit Panjang (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 1130am - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 930pm

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