Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒) @ Marriott Tang Plaza Singapore - A Reunion of Bountiful Prosperity

Set within Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel, Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant once again ushers in a luxurious Lunar New Year celebration. Renowned for its refined Cantonese cuisine and timeless sophistication, the restaurant marks the season with an opulent showcase of premium ingredients, meticulous craftsmanship, and exquisite flavours. This Year of the Horse, Wan Hao presents a series of curated multi-course menus and festive specialities that blend tradition with contemporary finesse.

We had the pleasure of experiencing the Celebrations of Abundance 6-Course Set Menu ($268.80++ per person, for 5-10 persons), served with their Tea-Smoked Grain-Fed Duck in place of the BBQ Suckling Pig with soft crepe. Though it comes at a premium, every course demonstrates careful curation, precise techniques and top-tier ingredients. From start to finish, each dish left a lasting impression.

Wan Hao Prosperity Yu Sheng 4.2/5

We began our dinner with the Wan Hao Prosperity Yu Sheng. Trust me when I say that this Yu Sheng is really loaded with lots of premium seafood, including Rock Lobster, Hokkaido Scallop, Japanese Yellowtail, Sturgeon Caviar, Salmon and Salmon Roe. Impressively presented in the shape of a horse for the media tasting, the enthusiastic Lo Hei was a festive start to the evening.

Tea Smoked Grain-Fed Duck 4.8/5

Next came the Tea-Smoked Grain-Fed Duck, a meaningful dish as duck symbolises good luck and good health during the Lunar New Year. Wan Hao’s rendition is elegantly conceptualised and perfectly executed. The duck is slowly marinated, then air-dried for 24 hours to achieve that crispy, golden skin and tender meat. It is finally finished with an aromatic smoke of osmanthus, Long Jing tea leaves, and sugarcane, giving it a subtly sweet, floral fragrance that is fantastic. This duck is also available for takeaway ($78 nett for half, $138 nett for whole).

Wan Hao Bird’s Nest Eight Treasures Pot 4.8/5

The Wan Hao Bird’s Nest Eight Treasures Pot is nothing short of impressive. What stood out immediately was the vibrant, collagen-packed broth. The pot was brimming with premium ingredients, featuring 5-Head South African Abalone, Sea Cucumber, Black Moss Dace Fish Bean Curd Skin Bag, Pork Tendon, Free-range Chicken, Japanese Shiitake Mushroom, Fish Maw, Prawns and more. Very indulgent and nourishing, I simply had to finish every drop of that delicious broth.

Stewed Lobster with Trio Onion in Spicy Superior Light Soy Sauce 4.5/5

The Stewed Lobster with Trio Onion in Spicy Superior Light Soy Sauce was another beautifully presented dish. The lobster was succulent with plenty of meat, absorbing the savoury depth of the superior light soy sauce while still retaining its natural sweetness. It highlights both the lobster's freshness and the Chef’s skill in harmonising flavours.

Cantonese Style Claypot Rice 4.5/5

Many at my table eagerly anticipated this Cantonese-style Claypot Rice, and it certainly delivered. Fragrant and aromatic, the rice is first mixed with foie gras and Superior Light Soy Sauce, creating a rich, tasty base. It is then served with cured duck, Chinese sausage, and Hong Kong Chye Sim, resulting in a delicious rice dish that delivers comforting, familiar flavours.

Trio of Desserts 4.2/5

Concluding on a strong note, the Trio of Desserts offers three sweet treats, each with its own delightful texture. The Red Bean Glutinous Rice Ball coated in shredded coconut was soft and satisfyingly chewy. At the same time, the Deep-Fried Sesame Ball with custard delivered the perfect contrast: crisp on the outside, warm and gooey within. Rounding off the trio, the Chilled Bird’s Nest with Snow Pear and Rock Sugar provided a light, refreshing, and icy finish.

Whether for family reunions or intimate celebrations, the menu delivers abundance and auspiciousness befitting the season.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒)
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
320 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Tel: +65 6831 4605
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11.30am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Xita Lao Tai Tai (西塔老太太) @ Bugis+ - Launches 4 Pax Feastive Feast

Suppose you enjoy tasty barbecue, hearty dishes, and the lively atmosphere of communal dining. In that case, Xita Lao Tai Tai Bugis+ is ready to welcome you for a season of feasting and gatherings this holiday season. Known for its Korean-influenced Clay Stove Barbecue grills, signature marinades, and charmingly nostalgic interior, Xita Lao Tai Tai has built a following in Singapore’s ever-evolving BBQ scene. It is also well worth joining their membership programme, as members get to enjoy special deals and attractive discounts.

Festive Set BBQ Platter

Their seasonal Festive Set is priced at $108 for members (usual price $151.80) and includes four types of BBQ meat: the Xita BBQ Meat Tower, pork belly, pineapple-glazed beef rib fingers, and secret-marinated chicken chop. It consists of a cold-dressed chicken appetiser, joyful sesame balls, and strawberry ice burst for dessert.

We also ordered some a la carte items to complement our experience. I was pleasantly surprised that the team helped grill all the meats for us, which made the experience relaxed, enjoyable, and completely fuss-free. We could focus on eating and chatting while the staff refilled our plates.

Banchan/Accompaniments, Drinks

Along with our meal, we were served a generous selection of accompaniments, including kimchi, fresh lettuce for wraps, potato salad, and a comforting pumpkin soup. We also enjoyed some refreshing iced slushies, which were perfect for cooling down between all the grilling and feasting.

The highlight of the Festive Feast has to be the Xita BBQ Meat Tower, dressed for the festivities with charming decorations and stacked generously with assorted cuts. Each cut is well-seasoned, tender, and neatly portioned for easy sharing.

Pineapple Glazed Beef Rib Fingers

The Pineapple Glazed Beef Rib fingers come with a tangy, lightly sweet glaze that helps tenderise the meat, and the natural richness of the beef pairs beautifully with these flavours. The grilled pineapple slices were a delightful treat as well.

Pork Belly

No barbecue meal feels complete without Pork Belly, and the slices here are deeply marinated, allowing the fat to render into a crisp outer layer with a soft, melty centre.

Pork Collar

The Pork Collar, which is not part of the Festive Feast but is a recommended add-on, is another excellent choice. It is slightly leaner than the belly yet still wonderfully succulent, and it grills beautifully over the claypot heat. Both cuts are the sort of crowd-pleasing staples that disappear quickly once the grilling begins.

Secret Marinated Chicken Chop

The Secret Marinated Chicken Chop is juicy and stays wonderfully tender on the grill, with a comforting flavour that makes it an easy crowd-pleaser at the table.

Golden Tofu

Cold Dressed Chicken

For a light side dish, golden tofu is satisfying yet straightforward, adding a pleasant contrast to richer meats. The Cold Dressed Chicken appetiser, part of the set, is served chilled and refreshing, offering a gentle, clean-tasting start before the grilled items begin to arrive.

Seafood Pancake

Golden Glutinous Rice Ball

The Seafood Pancake came out nice and crispy, but unfortunately, we found it a little too oily for our liking. The Golden Glutinous Rice Ball, on the other hand, was satisfyingly yummy and chewy, with a slight sweetness.

Clam Soup

The Clam Soup is light, clear, and subtly sweet from the clams. It helps cleanse the palate between bites and is also comforting to sip while waiting for the next round of grilling, especially amid all the smoke and warmth from the stove.

Joyful Sesame Balls

Strawberry Ice Burst

Two desserts are included in the festive set. The Joyful Sesame Balls are pleasantly crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a sesame filling. To conclude, the Strawberry Ice Burst is light, fruity and refreshing, making it ideal after a table full of smoky and savoury dishes. It is, however, on the sweeter side.

In conclusion, dining at Xita Lao Tai Tai Claypot Stove BBQ is lively and well-suited for gatherings. If you are looking for a fun place in town to celebrate with friends or simply enjoy a good BBQ with quality meats, Xita Lao Tai Tai is a wonderful option this season.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xita Lao Tai Tai (西塔老太太)
Bugis+
201 Victoria Street
#04-06
Singapore 188067
Tel: +65 6908 4181
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Victoria Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Yan (宴) @ National Gallery Singapore - Ring in the Year of the Snake with an Abundant Feast

With the Lunar New Year just around the corner, Yan (宴) at the National Gallery Singapore is ushering in the festivities with a spread of traditional Cantonese delicacies. Featuring six specially curated dine-in set menus priced between $138++ and $288++ per person, the restaurant also offers an extensive array of a la carte dishes and festive treats, ensuring something for every palate. Here's a glimpse of the celebratory dishes that set the tone for an auspicious and indulgent year ahead.

Kaleidoscope of Prosperity Yu Sheng in "Shun De" Style with Yellowtail Slices and Sakura Shrimps

The Kaleidoscope of Prosperity Yu Sheng ($128/$178) offers a refreshing take on the traditional festive favourite. Inspired by the "Shun De" style, this version features a vibrant mix of julienned vegetables, crispy fried vermicelli, and a savoury soy sauce-based dressing that sets it apart from the usual sweet iterations. Elevated with the addition of sakura shrimps, it delivers a delightful crunch and layered flavour, making it a standout choice for a prosperous Lunar New Year toss.

Braised Chicken and Pumpkin Broth with Fish Maw and Conpoy

The Golden Pumpkin Broth with Fish Maw and Conpoy was a highlight of the meal. This rich and creamy soup blends chicken broth with golden pumpkin puree, creating a velvety texture and a subtle sweetness. A generous piece of Hua Jiao (fish maw) adds a luxurious touch with its bouncy, firm texture, making every spoonful deeply satisfying.

Sauteed Australia Scallops with Asparagus and Black Truffle Sauce

The Sautéed Australian Scallops left a lasting impression with their impressive size and plumpness. Lightly seasoned and sautéed to perfection, the scallops were delicately coated in a fragrant black truffle sauce, complementing their natural sweetness. Served alongside poached asparagus and stir-fried capsicums, this dish is both visually appealing and deliciously balanced.

Steamed Soon Hock Fillet with Sliced Yunnan Ham and Black Mushroom, Seasonal Green

Fish symbolises abundance during the Lunar New Year, and the Steamed Soon Hock Fillet exemplifies this tradition. Deboned and meticulously arranged with Yunnan ham, shiitake mushrooms, julienned ginger, and carrots, the Soon Hock is steamed to tender perfection. The ham's subtle saltiness enhances the fish's natural sweetness, making this dish a standout addition to the festive menu.

Poached Chicken marinated with Chinese Wine and Conpoy

One of the most memorable dishes of the meal was the Poached Chicken steeped in a flavourful blend of Chinese herbs, hua tiao wine, hairy fig, conpoy, and yellow gardenia. The gardenia lends the chicken a natural yellow hue while infusing it with a distinct herbal aroma. The tender kampong chicken is further elevated by the subtle sweetness and fragrance of the wine, making this dish a favourite.

Braised South Africa Whole Abalone with Noodles and Superior Oyster Sauce

The luxurious Braised South African Whole Abalone served with noodles, and superior oyster sauce was a fitting final savoury dish. The 4-head abalone, braised to perfection, showcased a delightful combination of bouncy texture and rich flavour, while the noodles soaked up the oyster sauce beautifully, making for a satisfying and indulgent plate.

Chilled Roselle Flower Jelly with Barley, Deep-fried Sesame Balls

Dessert was a two-part affair, featuring the Chilled Roselle Flower Jelly with Barley and Deep-fried Sesame Balls. The roselle jelly provided a refreshing and slightly tangy contrast to the hearty meal, while the sesame balls, filled with pandan lotus seed paste and melon seeds, offered a chewy texture and nutty aroma, thanks to the toasted sesame seeds. This harmonious combination of flavours and textures was the perfect way to conclude the meal.

Yan (宴) has curated an array of celebratory menus that beautifully blend traditional Cantonese flavours with contemporary touches. The Kaleidoscope of Prosperity Yu Sheng, the velvety Pumpkin Broth, and the decadent Braised Abalone are just a few highlights that exude festive indulgence. For those seeking a memorable dining experience to welcome the Year of the Snake, Yan is sure to deliver an auspicious feast.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yan Restaurant (宴)
National Gallery Singapore
1 St Andrew's Road
#05-02
Singapore 178958
Tel: +65 63845585
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit D. Turn left and walk down North Bridge Road. Turn left onto Coleman Street. Walk down Coleman Street. Walk to destination. Journey time around 5 minutes. [Map]

Crystal Jade Group Of Restaurants - Mother's Day And Seasonal Menu Promotion

In conjunction with the upcoming Mother's and Father's Day, Crystal Jade Group's portfolio of fine and casual-dining restaurants has launched several limited-time promotions – ranging from High-Tea sets and special set menus alongside seasonal a la carte dishes. The promotions are available from now till 30 June 2023.

Cucumber & Assorted Mushroom Dumpling 4.5/5, Steamed Squid with Water Chestnut Dumpling 4.5/5, Deep-fried Beancurd Roll with Pork Floss & Seaweed 2.5/5

Available at Crystal Jade Palace, Crystal Jade Golden Palace and Crystal Jade Pavilion for the first time, these three fine-dining establishments offer specially-curated High Tea sets, over two weekends each, in May and June, in the late afternoon from 3pm – 445pm. A peek into the Crystal Jade Pavilion Sea High-Tea set, we tried the Cucumber & Assorted Mushroom Dumpling served together with two seasonal dim sum items from Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen - Steamed Squid with Water Chestnut Dumpling ($7.80/3 pieces) and Deep-fried Beancurd Roll with Pork Floss & Seaweed ($7.80/3 pieces). I enjoyed both the dumplings. They were exquisite, with thin skin and fillings that were on point with flavours and texture. However, the deep-fried beancurd roll was a tad greasy for me.

Chilled Boneless Kampung Chicken 4/5

Crystal Jade Palace presents two very tantalising dishes. The first to be served was Chilled Boneless Kampung Chicken with Scallion & Sand Ginger ($36 for half, $70 for whole). The chicken was deliciously succulent and tender, marinated in a mixture of chopped spring onions and sand ginger that lent incredible fragrance, flavour and freshness.

Stewed Chinese Yam Vermicelli with Sesame Chicken & Shredded Ginger 4/5

The 2nd dish was a nourishing and warming Stewed Chinese Yam Vermicelli with Sesame Chicken & Shredded Ginger ($32 for regular (3-4 persons)). The sesame flavour was more of an undertone, making the broth much lighter than expected and delightfully comforting. The Chinese yam vermicelli is specially brought in to create this dish. Its texture is a cross between rice vermicelli and glass noodles.

Steamed Whole Deboned Fish wrapped in Crystal Jelly 5/5

From Crystal Jade Golden Palace, I was awed by this high-skilled dish - Steamed Whole Deboned Fish wrapped in Crystal Jelly in Teochew Style (Seasonal price). The live fish is first filleted, then wrapped with shiitake mushroom, red chilli, preserved vegetables, Chinese celery and shredded ginger in a delicate mung bean sheet, and steamed in a light stock flavoured with preserved vegetables and enlivened with fresh tomatoes.

Hakka Grandma's Pork Belly with Preserved Vegetable 3.5/5

In contrast with the above, Hakka Grandma's Pork Belly with Preserved Vegetable ($28/4 pieces) is a very homely dish that entices with thick cuts of pork belly doused in a dark, rich sauce with Preserved Vegetables. The preserved vegetables were surprisingly quite balanced in flavour, and it would have been a perfect combination if the pork belly had been more tender.

Deep-fried Assorted Mushroom & Lotus Roots 3/5

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao & Jiang Nan presents Deep-fried Assorted Mushroom & Lotus Roots in Chef's Special Spicy Cumin Powder ($16.80). Using mushrooms and crunchy lotus roots instead of meat gives a different form of enjoyment. However, I would prefer the mushrooms to be less thinly sliced so each fried piece has a 'meatier' bite.

Superior Bird's Nest with Taro Paste in Deep-fried Sesame Ball 3/5

Crystal Jade Palace High Tea set, Crystal Jade Golden Palace High Tea set & Crystal Jade Pavilion High Tea set are priced at $68++ per person (minimum 2 persons to dine). Each delectable high tea set includes two appetisers, four dim sum, a soup, a main, two desserts, and free flow of Chinese tea and coffee. You can also opt to top up $58 for a bottle of Prosecco Cecilia Beretta NV (750ml).

Mango Passionfruit Sorbet with Bird's Nest 3.5/5

An extensive selection of set menus is available at Crystal Jade Palace, Crystal Jade Golden Palace and Crystal Jade Pavilion. Each menu comprises off-the-menu creations, from $488 for 6 persons to $1,688 for 10 persons.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.