Chef X @ Clark Quay Central - Welcomes Nonyanita, The Final Pop Up Residency Offering Modern Interpretation of Peranakan Cuisine

Nonyanita Cafe, the latest concept at Chef X, brings a refreshing take on Peranakan cuisine that feels both nostalgic and unexpectedly modern. Helmed by Chef Jean Tan, the menu reimagines heritage dishes in familiar cafe formats such as grain bowls, sandwiches, and soups, making traditional flavours more approachable for today's diners.

Most of the dishes leaned towards a lighter, more delicate flavour profile - very much reflective of Chef Jean's personal cooking style, where less salt allows the natural ingredients to shine.

Tempeh Fruits & Nuts Salad 4.8/5

We were recommended the Tempeh Fruits & Nuts Salad ($15), and I'll admit I was hesitant at first since I'm not usually a fan of tempeh, but this dish completely changed my mind. The combination of textures really stood out, especially with the juicy bursts of pomegranate and the crunch from the nuts. Everything comes together beautifully with the kecap manis dressing, which adds a gentle sweetness balanced with a slight tang. Surprisingly addictive, and this would make a hearty meal on its own.

Nonya Wings 3.8/5

The Nonya Wings ($5/2pcs, $12/6pcs) were made with fresh wings, which we appreciated. While the marinade was fragrant, we found the flavours a little on the lighter side for our palate. That said, it still makes for an easy, snackable side, especially if you prefer something less heavy.

Itek Sio Sandwich 3.5/5

This was our first time trying an Itek Sio Sandwich ($23), featuring Nonya braised duck. The duck is cooked down until tender and falls apart easily, with a pulled pork-like texture. However, the use of tamarind gives it a distinct tanginess that might be an acquired taste. It's an interesting take on a traditional dish, though the flavour profile may not appeal to everyone.

Papaya & Prawns Titek Soup 3.8/5

The Papaya & Prawns Titek Soup ($16, with rice) leans towards a lighter, more delicate profile, rather than the bold flavours you might expect. Chef Jean shared that she prefers not to rely heavily on salt, which explains the broth's clean taste. A nice touch was the tableside addition of fresh herbs, where we had basil added, along with a side of sambal for those who prefer a bit more punch. It's a comforting dish that feels very home-style.

Nonya Chicken Curry 3.8/5

You can't have Peranakan cuisine without a Nonya Chicken Curry ($15). This version is rich and lemak, but we found it slightly sweeter than what we personally prefer. Still, it's a solid rendition and likely to appeal to those who enjoy a more rounded, mellow curry.

Keluak Cookies 5/5

The desserts left a much stronger impression overall. The Keluak Cookies ($3/pc, $30/12pcs) were especially memorable; despite containing no chocolate, they have a surprisingly deep, cocoa-like flavour. They're less sweet, slightly crumbly, and feel like a "healthier" indulgence.

Sugee Cake 5/5

Another standout was the Sugee Cake ($6.30/pc, $98/whole). It has a light, crumbly texture rather than being dense and the toasted almond flakes add a lovely crunch and fragrance. Definitely one of a kind.

Pulut Hitam with Dried Logans 4/5

Lastly, the Pulut Hitam with Dried Longans ($8, +$4 for ice cream) is served warm and comforting. It's less sweet than usual, but the dried longans bring natural sweetness and added depth, giving it a fresh twist on a familiar dessert.

Nonyanita Cafe offers a thoughtful and modern interpretation of Peranakan cuisine, one that leans lighter in seasoning while staying rooted in tradition. While some dishes may feel more subtle than expected, the desserts and overall concept stand out for their uniqueness and creativity.

As the final residency at Chef X, it's definitely worth checking out if you're curious to experience Peranakan flavours presented in a different, more contemporary way!

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


Nonyanita Cafe @ Chef X
Clarke Quay Central
6 Eu Tong Sen Street
#03-103/104
Singapore 059817
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Nearest MRT: Clark Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clark Quay MRT Station. Take Exit E or F. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Tea Lounge @ Conrad Singapore Orchard - Art of Chocolate, An Indulgent Afternoon of Valrhona-infused Delights

Tea Lounge at Conrad Singapore Orchard has launched a decadent Weekday Afternoon Tea in collaboration with Valrhona, featuring a curated selection of pastries and cocoa-infused creations crafted with Valrhona's signature couverture chocolates.

We started with a warm, creamy, indulgent Hot Chocolate, though a more bittersweet profile might have made for a better opening given the sweets ahead.

Finger Sandwiches

The tier of savoury finger sandwiches was nothing short of elegant and satisfying. The ratio of soft, fluffy bread to fillings was spot on. The Devilled Mimosa Sandwich offered a classic egg mayo filling, while the Cured Cucumber Sandwich delivered a pleasant savoury crunch. The Smoked Salmon Sandwich with Caviar was mouth-filling and luxurious, while the Smoked Roasted Chicken Sandwich leaned more towards a shaved ham sandwich, though still delectable with its tender bite.

Vanilla Moist Layer Cake

The tea cakes and pastries tier showcases some of Valrhona's key couverture chocolates, including Guanaja 70% that goes into making the Vanilla Moist Layer Cake. I learnt that Guanaja 70% is regarded as the world's first intensely bitter chocolate with 70% cocoa, when it was first introduced in 1986!

Crémeux and White Miso Tart

The Crémeux and White Miso Tart stood out the most for me. It features Matcha inspiration, made with Kagoshima matcha and cocoa butter. The savoury white miso tart also draws on umami, reinforcing the creation's Japanese flair. Among the sweets, I thought this had the most balanced sweetness.

Raspberry Crémeux and Coco Biscuit features Opalys 33%, known for its pure white colour and velvety texture. Coconut is infused into the pastry as well, imparting a gentle tropical note. The Hazelnut Travel Cake is a vegan-friendly cake made using Amatika 46%, Valrhona's first vegan couverture. The nuttiness of the cake came through beautifully. Roasted Buckwheat Mandola is created with Hukambi 53% milk chocolate and elevated with a nutty crunch from roasted buckwheat.

Mushrooms Royale and Dark Chocolate Quiche

In between, we were also served Mushrooms Royale and Dark Chocolate Quiche, both of which were among my favourite items. The dark notes of the pastry tart complemented the creamy and savoury filling especially well. The scones are served with clotted cream, salted caramel chocolate jam, strawberry jam, and calamansi curd.

Scones

In addition to the Classic Plain, there is also the Manjari 64% Chocolate and Candied Orange Zest Scone. Studded with chunks of luscious Manjari 64% chocolate in every bite, it was delicious enough to enjoy with just the clotted cream.

Sweet Risotto

Sweet Risotto was served à la minute, with a choice of three flavours — dark chocolate, raspberry, and matcha. During our visit, guest Pastry Chef Arief Rusli of Valrhona was in residence at Tea Lounge, and we had the privilege of having him finish our risotto with a pepper-spiked mousse. Its contrasting peppery note offset the milky sweetness of the risotto, creating a more balanced and nuanced finish.

Beyond the existing selection of teas and coffee, you can also customise your own Gryphon tea at a dedicated tea station with a variety of ingredients to choose from.

Art of Chocolate is available Mondays to Fridays from 30 March to 10 July 2026, 12pm to 5pm.

Pricings
$54++ per adult
$27++ per child with selection of tea and coffee
An additional $50++ per adult for free-flow prosecco and wines
An additional $70++ per adult for free-flow champagne and wines

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.


Tea Lounge
Conrad Singapore Orchard
Lobby Level
1 Cuscaden Road
Singapore 249715
Tel: +65 67253245
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 5pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 215pm, 3pm - 515pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn right and walk down Cuscaden Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes.[Map]

Pacific Emporium @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Launches Festive Afternoon Tea For The Festive Season

Celebrate the festive season with Pacific Emporium’s Festive Afternoon Tea, a thoughtfully curated spread of savoury bites, festive sweets, Christmas-inspired scones, and a choice of mains. The experience is complemented with TWG tea or coffee, with the option to add on a glass of champagne to amp up the celebratory mood.

We started with a complimentary welcome drink, Cinnamon Spark, a sweet-citrusy blend of cinnamon-honey syrup, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic bitters, which nicely set the tone for the afternoon.

Turkey Slider

Each guest gets to choose one main. The Turkey Slider featured a juicy turkey patty tucked between buttery brioche, layered with sweet caramelised onions and cheese.

Sampler of Festive Sausages

The Sampler of Festive Sausages, which included a Basil Pesto Bratwurst and Garlic Butter Sausage, was well-seasoned and juicy.

Salmon & Cheese Roulade

Lobster Salad

The savoury bites include festive creations. The Salmon & Cheese Roulade was a classic pairing of smoked salmon and cream cheese, while the Lobster Salad, cleverly presented as a local-inspired kueh pie tee, proved a delightful surprise.

Apple & Walnut Savoury Tart

Other savouries included Prosciutto e Melone, offering a light and refreshing contrast, and the Apple & Walnut Savoury Tart, which delivered a buttery, nutty bite with a hint of freshness.

Grilled Chicken Choux Bun

Breaded Ham & Cheese Sandwich

The Grilled Chicken Choux Bun was sweet-savoury and filling, packed with a creamy yet chunky chicken filling. Breaded Ham & Cheese Sandwich was served hot and pleasantly different from the usual cold tea sandwiches.

Hazelnut Passion Fruit Log Cake

The sweet treats this season leaned towards citrusy notes. The Hazelnut Passion Fruit Log Cake was nutty and fragrant, made with buckwheat sponge and layered with tart passion fruit curd.

Earl Grey Lavender Log Cake

The iridescent Earl Grey Lavender Log Cake intrigued with its Earl Grey Tanariva mousse, though the crunchy dark chocolate tended to dominate the overall flavour.

Apricot Dianduja Tart

Raspberry Rosella Choux

My favourites were the Apricot Dianduja Tart and Raspberry Rosella Choux. The tart struck the right balance of sweetness, with distinct yet harmonious chocolate and apricot flavours. The choux, on the other hand, had a spot-on tartness that beautifully balanced the sweetness.

Lemon Hazelnut Madeleine

Scones

The Lemon Hazelnut Madeleine was buttery with a gentle citrus lift, while the scones were served with clotted cream, cherry jam, and chocolate hazelnut spread. They were decent, though not particularly memorable.

Overall, Pacific Emporium’s Festive Afternoon Tea is a well-rounded option for a relaxed, festive catch-up. In particular, the sweet options stood out for their well-balanced flavours and sweetness.

Festive Afternoon Tea
17 November – 31 December 2025
First Seating | 1:00pm – 3:00pm, Second Seating | 4:00pm – 6:00pm

Mondays to Fridays
$68++ per person
$88 ++ includes a glass of Taittinger Brut Réserve

Saturdays & Sundays, and 25 December 2025 (Buffet-style)
Adult: $78++
Child: $39++ (6 to 12 years old)

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.


Pacific Emporium
Pan Pacific Singapore
7 Raffles Boulevard
Level 1
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 68268240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
1st Seating: 1-3pm
2nd Seating: 4-6pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Coexist Coffee Co. @ Pasir Panjang Road - New Third Outlet In The Rather Off-The-Beaten-Path Part of Singapore

Coexist Coffee Co. has opened its third outlet along Pasir Panjang Road, bringing its signature speciality coffees and hearty brunch offerings to this rather off-the-beaten-path part of Singapore. When I first walked into its minimalist space, what immediately caught my attention was its sheer spaciousness. It was indeed a much-needed retreat from the surrounding traffic and industrial density.

The food menu is well-curated, featuring a hearty selection spanning Brunch, Mains, Pastas, and Desserts. We tried two brunch items, both of which checked all the boxes of what makes a satisfying brunch.

Smoked Salmon Toast 4.8/5

The Smoked Salmon Toast ($20, +$4 for scrambled eggs) came generously topped with ribbons of smoked salmon, drizzled with dill yoghurt, on sourdough toast. With such a hearty serving of salmon, the toast's thickness provided a good balance, though a touch more dill yoghurt would have helped round out the flavours and mouthfeel. The scrambled eggs were delightfully rich and buttery.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich 4/5

The Grilled Cheese Sandwich ($20) with Tomato Soup reminded me of a version I once had in Bali, and I was pleasantly surprised to find it here as well. Between two slices of sourdough was a gooey mix of Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, and Mozzarella, offering a nice complexity of flavours. The accompanying tomato soup was delectable, though it could use a bit more savouriness and punch. The herbed potatoes were fluffy inside with a crisp skin, and I appreciated that both dishes came with a well portioned mesclun salad.

Carrot Cake Fries 3.8/5

For something to share, one of the popular finger foods here is the Carrot Cake Fries ($12). I considered them the level-up old-school carrot cake sticks. Each stick was battered and fried, then topped with sambal mayo and dehydrated chye poh.

Burnt Butter Toast 5/5

Burnt Butter Toast ($10), found under the Dessert section, was a delightful standout, but it is, in fact, wholesome and delicious enough to join the rest as a main brunch item. The toasted brioche had a beautifully caramelised crust, while the inside stayed soft and fluffy. The blueberry compote tasted homemade — plump and juicy, just lightly sweetened to complement the natural tartness — and the cream tied everything together perfectly. A simple dish, done exceptionally well.

Piccolo, Coconut Cold Brew

The coffee menu is extensive, offering both familiar classics and creative house specials. I had a double shot Piccolo and a Coconut Cold Brew ($7), the latter featuring a 12-hour cold brew mixed with coconut water. The piccolo, even with an extra shot, remained smooth and easy to drink. The cold brew, meanwhile, was refreshingly light, a great alternative to sweetened black coffee.

Coexist Coffee Co. has not only brought its speciality coffees and wholesome food to the Pasir Panjang quartier, but also created a welcoming space where one can truly linger.

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.


Coexist Coffee Co.
122 Pasir Panjang Road
Singapore 118544
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Nearest MRT: Pasir Panjang (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 5pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Pasir Panjang MRT Station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Turn right on Pasir Panjang Road. Walk down Pasir Panjang Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]