Leila @ Teck Lim Road - A Contemporary Blend of Middle Eastern and Balkan Flavours

Leila at Teck Lim Road is a gastrobar serving up a vibrant mix of Middle Eastern and Balkan flavours in a stylish, contemporary setting.

Kubana Bread 2/5

Spicy Plate 4/5

We started with the Kubana Bread ($15), a traditional Yemenite Jewish yeasted bread beloved for its pillowy-soft texture. The dough is typically generously layered with butter before being shaped into pull-apart rolls and baked until golden. While ours arrived with an enticing crust and a soft interior, the bread was slightly denser than expected and seemed to lack the rich, buttery flavour that defines a good Kubana. Thankfully, the accompanying tahini and grated tomato helped elevate it, as did the additional Spicy Plate ($13), which featured earthy grilled peppers, smoky harissa and mellow garlic confit that paired well with the bread.

Nabulus Salad 4/5

The Nabulus Salad ($17) is a chopped salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled onions and mint, providing a refreshing accompaniment to the richer dishes.

Manseef 3/5

The Manseef ($33) comprised minced chicken served over a bed of creamy hummus, finished with harissa and an extra drizzle of tahini. While the dish was enjoyable, I felt that lamb or beef would have been a more suitable choice. Their richer, more robust flavour profile carries the Mediterranean spices and aromatics more effectively than chicken does, adding greater depth and dimension to the dish alongside the creamy, nutty hummus.

Green Chilli Shrimp 4/5

One of Leila’s signatures, the Green Chilli Shrimp ($27), showcased beautifully grilled prawns coated in a herbaceous green tatbila sauce. The freshness of the herbs came through nicely, though a touch more citrus would have brightened the dish and added greater vibrancy.

Knafeh 2/5

For dessert, we had the classic Middle Eastern sweet Knafeh ($21). Ours was finished tableside with a pour of sugar syrup, which wasn’t necessary as it sweetened the ice cream as well. I had expected delicate floral notes of rose or orange blossom to perfume the dessert, but the flavours were rather muted. Although the fried kataifi encased a layer of cheese, the pastry seemed slightly overfried, resulting in a dessert that lacked the aromatic complexity and balance I had hoped for.

Leila offers an interesting interpretation of Middle Eastern and Balkan flavours in a contemporary gastrobar setting. With a little more refinement, the menu could better showcase the rich culinary traditions it draws inspiration from.

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.


Leila
12 Teck Lim Road
Singapore 088387
Tel: +65 8016 4117
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 6pm - till late
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight down New Bridge Road. Turn right onto Kreta Ayer Road. Walk down Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk down Keong Saik Road. Turn left onto Teck Lim Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Pacific Emporium @ Pan Pacific Singapore - New English Afternoon Tea Experience

From now till 18 November 2026, Pacific Emporium at Pan Pacific Singapore welcomes guests to enjoy a cosy afternoon with its new English Afternoon Tea, inspired by timeless English classics.

English Afternoon Tea 3/5

Served daily, with two seatings available: 1pm to 3pm and 4pm to 6pm. On weekdays at $58++ per person, look forward to an elegant three-tiered afternoon tea set, complete with a choice of one main course.

On weekends, the experience transforms into a buffet spread for $68++ per person, with unlimited servings. Top up $20 per person to include a glass of Taittinger Brut Réserve Champagne.

Royale Lavender Earl Grey

We visited on a weekend, where the experience began with a refreshing Royale Lavender Earl Grey welcome drink. Delicately flavoured with Earl Grey tea, lavender and lemon, it had a lovely pink hue.

Corn Parfait

Mini Salmon Bagel

Virginia Ham Quiche

Bacon-wrapped Shrimp

Chicken Tea Sandwiches

The savoury selection featured Corn Parfait, Mini Salmon Bagel, Duck Rillettes Mille-feuille, Virginia Ham Quiche, Bacon-wrapped Shrimp topped with Blackcurrant Glaze, and Chicken Tea Sandwiches.

Duck Rillettes Mille-feuille

We preferred the Duck Rillettes Mille-feuille most, which had a crisp exterior topped with Siberian caviar. The plum confit added a pleasant tang.

Braised Beef Short Ribs

Fish and Chips

Among the Chef’s Speciality Showcase, the Mango Pani Puri is exclusive to weekends. The other four dishes, Classic Chicken Pie, Fish and Chips, Braised Beef Short Ribs, and Kedgeree, are offered as the main course choice on weekdays.

Mango Pani Puri

The Mango Pani Puri is a DIY station. Diners can fill the Pani Puri shells with vanilla sauce, mango compote, mango boba and rice krispies. While it was fun to DIY, we found the mango compote too sweet.

Kedgeree

Kedgeree is a classic English curried rice dish served with quail egg and smoked haddock.

Classic Chicken Pie

Our unanimous favourite, however, was the comforting Classic Chicken Pie, generously filled with mushroom chunks and chicken in a creamy Alfredo sauce.

Japanese Custard Pudding

Pink Grapefruit Mint Gateau

Corn Roulade

Overall, we found the sweet treats more memorable than the savouries. Highlights included the Raspberry Hazelnut Royaltine, Corn Roulade, Pink Grapefruit Mint Gateau, Japanese Custard Pudding and Pistachio Kunafe-style Tart.

Pistachio Kunafa-style Tart

While the Pistachio Kunafa-style Tart leaned on the sweeter side, we enjoyed the contrasting crunch from both the kunafa and the tart shell.

Raspberry Hazelnut Royaltine

The Raspberry Hazelnut Royaltine was rich and chocolatey, though we wished it had a little crunch for added texture.

Classic and Yuzu Scones

We appreciated that both the Classic and Yuzu Scones were served warm, accompanied by honey, raspberry jam and traditional English clotted cream.

For beverages, each diner may choose two selections from the TWG Tea collection or Robert Timms coffee menu.

To make a reservation, call +65 6826 8240, email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com, or visit https://bit.ly/ppsinpacificemporium.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣) and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


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]

Pang Pang (胖哥俩肉蟹煲) @ Guoco Midtown II - New Dishes & Generational Dining Deals for a Hearty Seafood Feast

Returning to Pang Pang (胖哥俩肉蟹煲) at Guoco Midtown II always feels like coming back to a familiar spot for indulgent, sauce-laden seafood pots. This time, the visit was made even more meaningful with the brand’s Parents’ Day promotion, running from 1 May to 30 June 2026. Designed to encourage family bonding over a communal feast, diners can enjoy up to 30% off their signature pots — 30% for three generations, 20% for two, and 10% for one. It’s a timely reason to gather loved ones around the table.

We were here to try some of their new dishes, alongside a new variation of their signature pot.

Spicy Prawn Crab Pot 4.5/5

The highlight of the meal was undoubtedly the new Spicy Prawn Crab Pot ($88), a decadent, flavour-packed centrepiece built for sharing. This latest variation brings together two premium seafood ingredients — crabs and prawns — in a robust, savoury-spicy sauce enriched with crab butter and aromatic spices.

The pot arrives brimming with ingredients, including tender chicken feet, soft potatoes, chewy rice cakes, and silky tofu, all steeped in a deeply umami-rich gravy. The chicken feet and potatoes stood out once again, having soaked up the sauce beautifully and cooked down to a soft, almost melt-in-the-mouth texture.

The crabs were fresh and meaty, with the claws thoughtfully pre-cracked, making it easy to enjoy without the usual effort. The prawns were plump and juicy, adding a satisfying bite and sweetness that balanced the spice. Altogether, it’s a hearty, indulgent dish that truly embodies the communal dining experience Pang Pang is known for.

Pineapple Shrimp 4/5

To balance the richness of the pot, the Pineapple Shrimp ($16.80) offers a refreshing contrast. Served cold, this newly introduced side dish features succulent peeled prawns paired with juicy pineapple chunks. The combination delivers a bright interplay of sweetness and tanginess, acting as a palate cleanser between bites of the heavier dishes. Light, refreshing and well-executed, it’s a thoughtful addition to the menu that complements the bold flavours of the mains.

Scallion Infused Noodles 3.5/5

A good carbohydrate pairing is essential when tackling Pang Pang’s rich pots, and the Scallion Infused Noodles ($5.80) fit the role well. The noodles are cooked to a pleasing texture, retaining a springy bite. Tossed in a fragrant blend of scallion oil and soy sauces, the noodles take on a glossy sheen and a savoury depth. The addition of crispy browned scallion bits adds a smoky aroma and extra layer of flavour. While simple, it serves as a comforting base to soak up the leftover sauce from the pot.

Deep Fried Chicken Wings 4/5

The Deep Fried Chicken Wings ($12.80) remain a reliable crowd-pleaser. Each wing is fried to a crisp golden-brown exterior, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite, while the meat inside stays juicy and tender. Lightly seasoned with a savoury spice blend, the wings are flavourful without being overly heavy, making them an addictive starter or side to share around the table.

Pang Pang continues to impress with its hearty, flavour-forward seafood pots designed for communal dining. The new Spicy Prawn Crab Pot is a worthy addition, offering indulgence and bold flavours in every bite. Paired with the refreshing Pineapple Shrimp and comforting sides, the experience feels well-rounded and satisfying. With the ongoing Parents’ Day promotion, there’s no better time to gather family across generations and enjoy a feast together. After all, few things bring people closer than sharing a big pot of rich, comforting food.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pang Pang (胖哥俩肉蟹煲)
Guoco Midtown II
20 Tan Quee Lan Street
# 01-13/16
Singapore 188107
Tel: +65 8084 9068
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Turn left and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Nong Geng Ji (农耕记湖南土菜) @ Great World City - Bold Hunan Flavours Meet Family-Style Dining

With the rapid expansion of Nong Geng Ji across Singapore, more diners are getting acquainted with the bold, rustic flavours of Hunan cuisine. I recently visited their Great World outlet with my family to try the 4-Pax Cherished Family Moments Set ($138), a hearty spread designed for communal dining. Larger groups can opt for the 6-Pax Joyful Reunion Feast ($188). In conjunction with Parents’ Day, the restaurant sweetens the experience with a scratch-and-win card (chance to win $100 in vouchers) for every table, plus a complimentary mugwort hammer with any set meal. This thoughtful, slightly quirky touch adds to the celebratory occasion.

Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone and Chilli 4.2/5

The Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone and Chilli is undoubtedly the centrepiece of the meal. Served in a signature golden wok kept warm over a flame, it arrives with an intoxicating, smoky aroma and wok hei. Tender slices of pork are paired with plump baby abalones, elevating what is typically a humble stir-fry into something more luxurious. The interplay of textures is delightful: the springy bite of abalone, the succulence of pork, and the crunch of Hunan green chillies. Despite its fiery appearance, the heat leans more aromatic than aggressive, making it surprisingly approachable.

Big Shrimp with Vermicelli and Garlic 4.2/5

A highlight for both flavour and theatrics, the Big Shrimp with Vermicelli and Garlic is cooked tableside. Fresh butterflied prawns are laid over vermicelli, drenched in an aromatic garlic sauce, then steamed for a precise seven minutes. When the lid is lifted, a cloud of garlicky steam fills the air. The prawns are sweet and snappy, but it’s the vermicelli that steals the show, soaking up the umami-rich juices and fragrant garlic broth. Comforting yet indulgent, it offers a welcome contrast to the bolder, spicier dishes.

Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth 4/5

The Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth provides a soothing interlude amid the spice-laden spread. Simmered for hours, the broth is rich, creamy, and deeply nourishing, drawing out collagen and marrow from the pork ribs. The lotus root here is of the prized “powdery” (mian) variety, breaking apart effortlessly with a soft, almost fluffy texture. Each spoonful is mellow yet flavourful, coating the palate with gentle sweetness and offering a much-needed reset.

Stir-Fried Spinach with Century Egg 2.8/5

The Stir-Fried Spinach with Century Egg was the weakest link of the meal. While the idea is appealing, with century egg breaking down into a creamy, umami-rich coating, the execution fell short. There was a noticeable bitterness in the finish, and the spinach could have been cooked slightly longer for a softer texture. The broth also lacked depth, and a more robust stock base would have helped lift the dish. While it still offers an interesting flavour profile, it didn’t quite match up to the rest of the spread.

Mao’s Braised Pork 4.5/5

A Hunan classic, Mao’s Braised Pork is a must-order. Unlike the darker Shanghainese version, this rendition achieves its deep amber hue through caramelised sugar and spices. Each cube of pork belly is beautifully layered and braised to perfection — tender to the point of melting in the mouth. The fat is rendered luxuriously without being greasy, while the lean meat remains juicy and flavourful. Rich, sticky, and deeply satisfying, it’s best enjoyed with a bowl of rice to mop up the luscious sauce.

Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple 4.2/5

For a non-spicy option, the Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple is a reliable crowd-pleaser. The chicken pieces are fried to a crisp golden exterior, retaining their crunch even after being coated in the glossy sauce. The balance of flavours is well judged, tangy without being overly sweet, with juicy pineapple chunks adding brightness. It’s a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness of the meal and appeals to all ages.

Rock Sugar Golden Fungus Dessert Soup 4/5

Ending on a gentle note, the Rock Sugar Golden Fungus Dessert Soup is both nourishing and refreshing. The golden fungus offers a slightly more velvety bite compared to the usual white variety. Lightly sweetened with rock sugar, the soup is delicate and soothing, allowing the natural flavours to shine. Served chilled, it provides a cooling contrast to the preceding spicy dishes, making it a fitting finale to the meal.

Nong Geng Ji delivers a robust introduction to Hunan cuisine with its bold flavours, generous portions, and communal dining format. The set menu offers a good variety, balancing fiery stir-fries with comforting broths and crowd-pleasing classics. While there are minor inconsistencies, the standout dishes — particularly the Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone and Mao’s Braised Pork — make the experience worthwhile. Coupled with seasonal promotions and family-friendly bundles, it’s a compelling spot for gatherings, especially for those looking to explore the punchy, aromatic world of Hunan flavours.


Nong Geng Ji (农耕记湖南土菜)
Great World City
1 Kim Seng Promenade
#01-115/116
Singapore 237994
Tel: +65 6908 0347
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Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 6. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]