Tim Ho Wan @ Plaza Singapura - Celebrates 12th Anniversary with Newly Revamped Menu

Tim Ho Wan, the famed Hong Kong dim sum chain, marks 12 incredible years in Singapore at its inaugural outlet at Plaza Singapura. To commemorate this milestone, the brand has launched a newly revamped menu that blends the comfort of familiar favourites with fresh creations and elevated classics, all at new pocket-friendly prices.

Barbecue Pork Rice 4/5

Barbecue Pork Noodles 4/5

The Barbecue Pork Rice ($12.80) and Barbecue Pork Noodles ($11.80) stood out among the new dishes. Both feature tender, smoky char siew that's full of flavour and satisfyingly moreish. The rice comes topped with a sunny-side-up egg, and we recommend breaking the yolk and mixing in more sauce for that extra indulgence. The noodles, while deceptively simple in appearance, were springy and well-seasoned.

BBQ Pork Bun 4.2/5

No visit to Tim Ho Wan is complete without their signature BBQ Pork Bun ($7.50/3pcs), and this revamped version delivers on all fronts. With a more fragrant, slightly crisp crust and juicier, chunkier meat fillings, this classic dim sum favourite is as crave-worthy as ever. It remains one of our top must-orders.

Pork & Shrimp Dumplings 4.2/5

Spinach Dumplings with Shrimp 3.8/5

For other dim sum staples, we tried the Pork & Shrimp Dumplings ($5.80/3pcs) and the Spinach Dumplings with Shrimp ($4.80/3pcs). The former impressed us with its juicy, flavourful filling, which we suspect is a subtle upgrade in the recipe. The latter, while lighter in taste, was generous in filling and offered a refreshing contrast on the table.

Sweet Plum Jelly 3.5/5

The Sweet Plum Jelly ($3.80) was a lovely palate cleanser to end the meal. Its soft, jiggly texture paired well with the sweet-tangy notes, making it a great way to balance out the richer dishes and cut through any lingering greasiness.

Cold Brew Teas 4/5

Tim Ho Wan's new Cold Brew Teas ($3 each) are a refreshing option if you want a chilled drink to pair with your meal. The White Peach Oolong and Rose Lychee Black teas offer distinct floral-fruity notes and aroma. Fragrant and light, they complement the dim sum spread beautifully, perfect for Singapore's weather.

Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time diner, Tim Ho Wan's refreshed offerings are worth revisiting. The 12th anniversary menu stays true to the brand's commitment to traditional flavours while introducing modern touches that make the experience even more enjoyable. Celebrate this milestone with comforting dim sum and discover what's new. Now available at all Tim Ho Wan outlets across Singapore.

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


Tim Ho Wan
Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road
#01-29A/52
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6251 2000
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 930pm
Sat-Sun: 10am - 930pm

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

Chen's Kitchen @ Paragon - Bold Chuka Ryori Flavours with Michelin-Quality Comfort Food

Famed Michelin Chef Kentaro of Shisen Hanten debuts a comfort dining concept, Chen's Kitchen, at Paragon Shopping Centre. The new casual family dining concept brings bold Chuka Ryori flavours and his renowned Mapo Tofu to the heart of Singapore. The new concept offers comfort Chinese food with finesse, blending Japanese techniques with rich Szechuan flavours and promising sustainable pricing.

Chen's Pork Shumai 4/5

Chef Kentaro's Szechwan-inspired Pork Shumai ($9.90) The siew mai features juicy, seasoned pork enriched with the umami depth of conpoy. Topped with a touch of mala daikon, it offers a delicate kick that elevates this classic dish. While I enjoyed the version here, my dining companions preferred a firmer texture.

XXL Szechwan La Zi Ji 4.5/5

A store-exclusive dish is the XXL Szechwan La Zi Ji ($17.90), an elevated take on Szechwan Popcorn Chicken with crispy karaage, soy puffs, garlic chips, cashews, aromatic spices, and dried chillies for bold flavour and irresistible crunch. Unlike the traditional La Zi Ji, the size of the chicken is like a chicken nugget, giving it a more substantial bite. The soy puffs give the dish an extra textural contrast.

Poached Fish Fillet in Golden Broth 4.2/5

Another store-exclusive dish on the menu is the Poached Fish Fillet in Golden Broth ($24.90). Chunky, moist, and fork-tender fish fillets are boiled in a golden broth made of Japanese pumpkin, with mushrooms, asparagus, and sansho pepper for a hint of heat or spiciness.

Mapo Tofu (Red) 4.8/5

The star at Chen's Kitchen has to be their Mapo Tofu. Chen's Kitchen offers the classic version and three other innovative variations. We had the Classic Mapo Tofu Red Version ($16.90/$26.90), which comprises soft silky tofu cooked with fermented broad bean paste (Dou Ban Jiang) sourced from the Pixian District in Chengdu, Szechwan pepper-flavoured fermented chilli bean paste, and savoury minced meat.

Szechwan French Beans & Mushroom 4.5/5

For our vegetable dish, we opted for the Szechwan French Beans & Mushroom ($13.90). They are wok-fried in Szechwan spices with minced pork. The dish is well executed, with the greens retaining a delightful crunch and a spice aroma.

Szechwan Spiced Chahan with Sakura Shrimp 4.2/5

Next, we had the Szechwan Spiced Chahan with Sakura Shrimp ($13.90). This is Szechwan-spiced fried rice with sakura shrimp, egg, and garlic. It is a flavoured packed fried rice, with the various aromatics accentuating the enjoyment of the fragrant rice.

Caramelised Mala Pecan Ice Cream 4.2/5

In my wildest imagination, I cannot imagine that this combination actually works. The Caramelised Mala Pecan Ice Cream ($4.80) turns out to be deliciously good. The hint of mala kick with the vanilla ice cream works harmoniously, rounding out the enjoyment with the nuttiness of the Pecan.

Double Boiled Pear 4.5/5

I like the Double-Boiled Pear ($6.90) dessert, which is very fitting for spicy and bold cuisine. This light and refreshing dessert can help ease and wash down the richness and also cool down the tongue for those who can't ready take spicy food.

Chen's Kitchen at Paragon brings Chef Kentaro's signature bold Chuka Ryori flavours into a more casual, accessible dining setting without compromising on quality. From their famous Mapo Tofu to innovative XXL Szechwan La Zi Ji, every dish is thoughtfully crafted with Japanese precision and rich Szechwan influences. The restaurant's affordable pricing and well-executed flavours make it a fantastic option for both quick meals and family gatherings. Whether you're a fan of spicy, umami-packed flavours or comforting, home-style dishes, Chen's Kitchen is well worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chen's Kitchen
Paragon Shopping Centre
200 Orchard Road
#B1-43
Singapore 238859
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line), Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. At the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link, cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 2 or 3. Proceed to the road level. Walk down Orchard Road until the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road and walk to Paragon. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Paradise Hotpot (品樂锅) @ Jurong East - Hong Kong-Style Hotpot Buffet by Paradise Group Opens New Outlet in Westgate, Prices Start From $19.90/Pax

Paradise Group’s Paradise Hotpot has been popular for its hotpot buffet since its launch in Compass One at Sengkang, and now they’ve opened their second outlet in the heart of Jurong, on the third floor of Westgate.

The buffet is priced affordably starting at $19.90/pax, with a dining limit of 80 minutes. The most value-for-money option is during their Tea Time, between 2.30pm and 4.30pm on Weekdays.

Diners can also opt for the Value or Premium Set, where the latter offers additional exclusive ingredients. The prices are as follows:

Value Set
Lunch (11.30am to 2.30pm): $23.90
Tea Time (2.31pm to 4.30pm): $19.90
Dinner (4.31pm to 10pm, last seating 8.30pm): $29.90

Premium Set
Lunch (11.30am to 2.30pm): $29.90
Tea Time (2.31pm to 4.30pm): $25.90
Dinner (4.31pm to 10pm, last seating 8.30pm): $37.90

Do note that there is an additional $3 surcharge per pax on Weekends and Public Holidays, while students and senior citizens (60 years and above) can enjoy a $3 discount per pax on Weekdays before 4.30pm, excluding Public Holidays.

Paradise Hotpot Buffet 4.2/5

In addition to its regular offerings, Paradise Hotpot has introduced three brand new soup bases: Century Egg with Coriander Soup, Satay Soup, and Clear Chicken Soup, adding to their lineup of nine, all freshly brewed in-house daily.

Both Value and Premium Sets include access to a whole range of unlimited snacks, cooked food, condiments, beverages and desserts.

The buffet's cooked food selection is a highlight, featuring Hong Kong-style dishes like Cantonese Steamed Rice with Preserved Meat, Braised Mixed Beef Offal, Ee Fu Noodles, Glutinous Rice Siew Mai with Mushroom and Curry Fish Ball.

There were a variety of snacks as well, including Fried Fish Beancurd Roll, Golden Crispy Prawn Cake, Crispy Pork Strips, Fried Chicken Wing and more.

I was pleasantly surprised to see a bubbling pot of Tea Egg available too. These were thoroughly braised and flavourful.

We liked how each diner has their own individual pot, as this means that everyone gets their preferred base. We were spoilt for choice among the broths and finally decided on the Authentic Pork Bone Soup Base and a vegetarian option, the Cordycep Flower with Mushroom Soup Base.

The pork bone soup base was flavourful and comforting, while the mushroom base is a good choice if you are looking for something nourishing and light. Broth refills were also available at each table to conveniently top up through the meal.

Most ingredients are available self-service, but diners can also order via QR code to have items delivered directly to their table.

The Premium Set included exclusive ingredients such as Sliced US Short Plate, Fresh Scallop, Scallop Seafood Paste, and more.

Our favourites from the Premium list of ingredients were the crunchy sweet Fresh White Sea Prawn, fresh Sliced Snakehead and tender Sliced Spanish Pork Collar.

Fans of Beauty in the Pot will be thrilled to know that the refreshing Yuzu Slush is available here but free-flow, along with hot tea and soft drinks.

Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the quality and variety of food for the price. The only drawback was the 80-minute time limit, so it's best to order promptly and keep track of time to enjoy fully.

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


Paradise Hotpot 品樂锅
Westgate, #03-10
3 Gateway Drive
Singapore 608532
Tel: +65 6805 8188
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East MRT (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11.30am to 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Jurong East MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Ya Ge (雅阁) @ Orchid Hotel - A Refined Weekend Dim Sum Brunch with 47 Items to Choose From

Ya Ge (雅阁) at Orchid Hotel Singapore has launched a refined new Weekend Dim Sum Brunch, offering an array of exquisite dim sum dishes, flavourful soups, hearty mains, and decadent desserts. Diners can select up to 15 dishes from the extensive menu, making it a perfect choice for those looking to indulge in a lavish and leisurely meal.

Abalone Siew Mai 4.2/5

We started our brunch with a selection of new dim sum creations that truly elevated the dining experience. The Abalone Siew Mai is a luxurious take on the classic pork siew mai, topped with a whole abalone that adds a touch of elegance and richness to the dish.

Steamed Mala Flavoured Pork Siew Mai topped with Baby Octopus 4/5

Another standout was the Steamed Mala Flavoured Pork Siew Mai topped with Baby Octopus. This dish combines the familiar flavours of siew mai with the bold, spicy kick of mala, topped with tender baby octopus. It's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dim sum.

Deep-fried Red Garoupa Fillet and Mango Roll 4/5

The Deep-fried Red Garoupa Fillet and Mango Roll was a delightful surprise, featuring a crispy exterior that encased tender garoupa fillet and sweet mango, complemented by a tangy mango sauce.

Pan-fried Tom Yum Mee Suan Kueh with Fresh Prawn 2.8/5

One of the most inventive dishes we tried was the Pan-fried Tom Yum Mee Sua Kueh with Fresh Prawn. The dish features a tom yum-flavoured prawn atop a crisp mee sua toast. However, it lacked the softer, more comforting texture of traditional fried mee sua kueh. It might not be everyone's cup of tea, especially if you're a fan of the Swee Choon's version.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Matsuke Mushroom, Dendrobium Steam and Conpoy 4/5

Braised Lobster Broth with Fresh Crab Meat and Crab Roe 4.2/5

For the soup options, we sampled the Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Matsuke Mushroom, Dendrobium Stem and Conpoy, as well as the Braised Lobster Broth with Fresh Crab Meat and Crab Roe. Both soups were rich and deeply flavorful, with the lobster broth standing out for its luxurious and briny taste.

Traditional Xiao Long Bao 3.5/5

Barbeque Pork Rice Roll 3.5/5

Pan-fried Chinese Sausage Carrot Cake 2.8/5

We also indulged in some of Ya Ge's more classic dim sum offerings, including the Traditional Xiao Long Bao, Barbeque Pork Rice Roll, and Pan-fried Chinese Sausage Carrot Cake. These classic dishes were executed to perfection, each bite bursting with familiar and comforting flavours.

Salted Egg Yolk Custard Lava Bun 4.5/5

Crispy Mini Pumpkin Pastry with Minced Chicken, Mushroom and Thyme 4.5/5

Crispy Ugly Duckling with Chicken, Yam and Mushroom 4.2/5

A few dishes stood out as personal favourites among the dim sum selections. The Salted Egg Yolk Custard Lava Bun is a must-try, with its soft, fluffy dough infused with pandan flavour and filled with rich, oozing salted egg yolk custard. Another delightful bite was the Crispy Mini Pumpkin Pastry with Minced Chicken, Mushroom, and Thyme. The pastry had a chewy texture that became more enjoyable with each bite. Lastly, the Crispy Ugly Duckling with Chicken, Yam, and Mushroom was packed with flavour and texture, making it an irresistible choice.

Peking Duck 4.2/5

Ya Ge's Weekend Dim Sum Brunch also features a live station that rotates weekly, offering dishes such as Peking Duck, Sliced Spotted Garoupa Pao Fan, Xiao Long Bao with Crab Roe Filling, Herbal Crispy Duck Roll, and more. During our visit, we were treated to the Peking Duck, a classic dish that was expertly prepared and a pleasure to eat.

Claypot French 'An Xin' Chicken in Traditional Kam Heong Style 4.5/5

If you think dim sum is the only highlight, think again. The brunch also includes several main courses that are worth trying. The Claypot French 'An Xin' Chicken in Traditional Kam Heong Style was a standout, with tender chicken pieces cooked in a fragrant lemongrass and kam heong sauce that was so delicious, it had me craving for a bowl of rice to go with it.

Braised Dong Po Iberico Pork 4.2/5

Another memorable dish was the Braised Dong Po Iberico Pork, which was cooked to perfection, melting in the mouth with every bite.

Braised Mee Pok with Eggplant and Kurobuta Minced Pork 4.2/5

We opted for the Braised Mee Pok with Eggplant and Kurobuta Minced Pork for our carbo fix. The sauce was rich and savoury, complementing the perfectly cooked noodles that had just the right amount of bite.

Chilled Lemongrass Jully, Chilled Mango Pomelo Sago 4/5

We indulged in desserts like the Chilled Lemongrass Jelly and Chilled Mango Pomelo Sago to wrap up our sumptuous brunch. Both desserts were light, sweet, and refreshing, providing a perfect end to our meal.

Available only on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays
First Seating: 11.30am - 1.30pm (Last Order at 1pm)
Second Seating: 12.30pm - 2.30pm (Last Order at 2pm)
Pricing:
S$68++ per adult (min. 2 persons)
$48++ per child (4-12 years old)

The Weekend Dim Sum Brunch at Ya Ge offers a delightful combination of classic and innovative dishes, all prepared with finesse and attention to detail. Whether you're a dim sum traditionalist or someone who enjoys trying new flavours, this brunch is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you planning your next visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Ya Ge (雅阁)
Orchid Hotel Singapore
1 Tras Link
Singapore 078867
Tel: +65 6818 6831
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight towards Orchid Hotel. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]