Kokoro Izakaya @ Lau Pa Sat Festival Market - Day-to-Night Izakaya Experience in a Historic Landmark

Kokoro Izakaya has made its debut at Lau Pa Sat, bringing the convivial charm of Japanese izakaya culture into one of Singapore’s most iconic dining landmarks. Set beneath the striking Victorian cast-iron structure of the gazetted national monument, the concept offers a refreshing dual experience — affordable Japanese set meals for the CBD lunch crowd by day, and a lively izakaya atmosphere with charcoal-grilled skewers, oden and drinks by night.

Tori Katsu Don Set (Weekday Set Lunch) 4/5

Catering to the busy office crowd, Kokoro Izakaya rolls out wallet-friendly weekday lunch sets from just $9.90 nett (11am to 4pm). The Tori Katsu Don Set ($9.90) is a satisfying and fuss-free option, comprising a crispy chicken cutlet gently simmered with egg in a savoury, bonito-based sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. The combination delivers comforting, homely flavours with a good balance of savoury depth and subtle sweetness. Each set comes complete with a side of creamy potato salad and a choice of hot or cold green tea, making it a well-rounded and value-for-money meal in the heart of the CBD. Other lunch options include the Pork Katsu Kare Set ($10.90) and Salmon Teriyaki Don Set ($11.90), offering variety without stretching the wallet.

Salmon Teriyaki Don 4/5

Wagyu Beef Don 4/5

For those seeking something more indulgent, the Wagyu Beef Don ($23.90) offers a more premium experience. The bowl features tender slices of beef paired with a luscious egg yolk, crispy fried garlic, and seaweed, creating a rich, umami-packed combination. The Salmon Teriyaki Don is another crowd-pleaser, with glazed salmon that is lightly caramelised, delivering a balance of sweetness and savoury notes that pairs well with the rice beneath.

Black Garlic Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen 4.2/5

Beyond rice bowls, Kokoro Izakaya also serves a selection of noodle dishes. The Black Garlic Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen ($14.90) stands out for its robust, comforting profile. The broth is thick, creamy and full-bodied, coating each strand of noodle with rich porky goodness. The addition of black garlic lends an extra layer of depth and aroma, elevating the overall flavour. The noodles have a pleasant bite, while the bowl is generously topped with two sizeable slices of tender chashu and a perfectly marinated ajitsuke tamago.

Sauteed Udon with Japanese Asari Clam 4.2/5

Another noteworthy noodle dish is the Sauteed Udon with Japanese Asari Clam ($14.90). The udon boasts a delightful chewy texture, tossed in a flavourful sauce with a hint of chilli heat. The sweetness of the plump and juicy asari clams adds a natural briny depth, resulting in a well-balanced dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Skewers 3.5/5

As evening sets in and Lau Pa Sat transforms into a bustling nightlife spot, Kokoro Izakaya shifts gears into a lively izakaya destination. The spotlight falls on its Charcoal-grilled Skewers, with more than 15 varieties grilled over premium binchotan charcoal. This imparts a distinctive smoky aroma that defines the izakaya experience. Highlights include Tebasaki (chicken wing), Hotate Scallop, Tori Tsukune (chicken and potato), Uzura Tamago (quail egg), Sunagimo (chicken gizzard), Buta Bara (pork belly) and Shiitake mushroom. While the selection is extensive, the skewers are best enjoyed alongside drinks for a casual, communal experience.

Yaki Surume Ika 4/5

Seafood lovers should not miss the Yaki Surume Ika ($22.90). Grilled over charcoal and brushed with teriyaki sauce, the squid develops a beautifully caramelised exterior. It remains firm and bouncy in texture, with a subtle sweetness and smoky aroma that make it an excellent accompaniment to drinks.

Salmon Cheese Harumaki 3.8/5

Tori Shippo Karaage 3.8/5

Complementing the drinks menu is a selection of bar bites ideal for sharing. The Salmon Cheese Harumaki ($5.90) features flaky salmon and melted cheese encased in a crisp spring roll skin, offering a satisfying contrast of textures. The Tori Shippo Karaage ($8.90), a lesser-seen Japanese delicacy made from chicken tail, delivers a tender, slightly fatty bite that is both rich and flavourful.

Oden 4/5

For a comforting option, the traditional Japanese Oden is a highlight. Simmered in a light yet flavourful dashi broth, the selection includes a variety of ingredients that absorb the delicate umami essence. Diners can opt for individual items from $3 per piece or go for curated sets such as the three-item combination ($7.90) or the seven-item assortment ($17.90), making it an ideal companion to a relaxed evening over drinks.

Kokoro Izakaya brings a refreshing concept to Lau Pa Sat, seamlessly transitioning from an affordable lunch destination to a vibrant izakaya hangout after dark. Whether you are looking for a quick and satisfying midday meal or a casual spot to unwind with skewers and drinks in the evening, it offers a versatile dining experience set against the charm of a historic landmark.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kokoro Izakaya
Lau Pa Sat Festival Market
18 Raffles Quay
Unit MR20
Singapore 048582
Tel: +65 8758 7024
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Cross Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit I. Walk to Robinson Road. Turn left onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinson Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Alijiang (阿里疆) @ VivoCity - Bringing The Bold, Rustic Flavours of Xinjiang to Singapore

Located on the third floor of VivoCity, Alijiang (阿里疆) brings the bold, rustic flavours of Xinjiang cuisine to the southern coast of Singapore. Since first opening in February 2019, the restaurant has built a steady following over the past seven years, offering diners a vibrant taste of the Silk Road in an upbeat yet polished setting, complete with views overlooking the Sentosa gateway.

Uae Salad 阿联酋沙拉 (Green Salad with Secret Sauce) 4/5

We began the meal with the UAE Salad 阿联酋沙拉 ($29.80), a refreshing cold appetiser that provides a welcome contrast to the robust, spice-laden dishes typical of Xinjiang cuisine. A medley of greens, avocado, and figs is brought together by a savoury, tangy vinaigrette with a gentle sweetness, making it both appetising and well-balanced.

Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 4/5

Next, the Grilled Chicken Skewer 烧烤鸡肉串 ($3.20/pc) offered a lighter alternative to the restaurant’s signature lamb skewers. Made with succulent chunks of chicken thigh, the skewers are grilled over high heat, achieving a smoky, lightly charred exterior while retaining a juicy interior. The seasoning carries the hallmark bold spices of Northwestern Chinese cuisine but remains approachable even for those less accustomed to stronger flavours.

Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 4.5/5

A highlight of the evening was the Braised Beef Brisket with Tomato 塔城番茄炖牛肉 ($38/$58), a comforting dish that showcases the Central Asian influence on Xinjiang cooking. The brisket is slow-cooked until fork-tender, with just enough fat to enrich the dish. The tomato-based gravy is thick and robust, offering a natural balance of acidity and sweetness. Presented in a pastry-sealed vase, the dish is theatrically poured into a pot at the table, with the pastry serving as a delightful accompaniment to soak up the luscious sauce.

Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 4.5/5

Equally impressive was the Alijiang Dapanji 新疆大盘鸡 ($28.80), arguably the most iconic dish of Xinjiang cuisine. This hearty communal plate features bone-in chicken pieces braised in a deeply aromatic sauce, alongside chunks of potato that have beautifully absorbed the rich flavours. Beneath the dish lie wide, hand-pulled belt noodles, prized for their chewy “QQ” texture. Designed to soak up the spicy gravy, the noodles are an essential and satisfying component of the dish.

Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot 3.8/5

For dessert, the Homemade Yoghurt Glutinous Rice with Apricot 酸奶凉糕 ($7.80/pax) offered an interesting interplay of textures. The house-made yoghurt is thicker and tangier than usual, paired with chewy glutinous rice pearls that lend a mochi-like bite. A sweet apricot sauce ties the elements together with a light floral sweetness.

Homemade Vrum Yoghurt 5/5

However, the true standout was the Homemade Vrum Yoghurt 自制奶皮子酸奶 ($4.80). Exceptionally thick and creamy, it boasts a custard-like consistency with a pronounced tangy profile. Made in limited quantities daily, it is highly sought after and often sells out — a testament to its popularity and quality.

Alijiang at VivoCity delivers a distinctive dining experience that highlights the rich culinary heritage of Xinjiang. From smoky skewers to hearty stews and unique dairy-based desserts, the menu captures the essence of Silk Road flavours while remaining accessible to the local palate. It is a compelling destination for those looking to explore a different facet of Chinese cuisine beyond the familiar.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Alijiang (阿里疆)
VivoCity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#03-11
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 62524979
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

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

Tanyu (探鱼烤鱼) @ 313 Somerset - Launches Singapore’s First Interactive Chinese Skewer Experience

With its reopening at 313@Somerset, TANYU ups the ante by launching Singapore's first interactive Chinese skewer experience, adding even more reason for fans to return.

Known for its signature grilled fish and bold Sichuan-style flavours, TANYU now invites diners to customise their feast with over 40 freshly grilled skewers, alongside premium grilled fish and new wok-fried creations. It's a lively, choose-your-own-adventure dining format that's casual, affordable, and dangerously addictive.

Skewer Station 4/5

The new skewer station is where the fun begins. With prices starting from just $0.80, it's easy (and tempting) to go a little overboard. Our top picks included the Squid, which is freshly grilled then chopped into bite-sized pieces - smoky, spicy and damn shiok. The Pork Collar stood out for its juicy tenderness, while the Teriyaki Chicken Thigh with Northern Scallion delivered savoury-sweet comfort. Another surprise favourite was the Black Pepper Shrimp Paste with Mushroom, packed with umami and charred aroma. Overall, the skewers are well-seasoned, nicely smoky and perfect for sharing.

Grilled Fish with Fresh Green Peppers 4/5

A trip to Tanyu wouldn't be complete without their signature grilled fish, and we were glad to see the Grilled Fish with Fresh Green Peppers ($28.90) now offered in a smaller portion suitable for 1–2 diners. This makes it much easier to enjoy their iconic dish without sacrificing stomach space for skewers. The green peppers' flavour remains my go-to for its comforting, punchy, consistently satisfying appeal.

Fiery Chicken with Green Peppers 4/5

One of the new additions, the Fiery Chicken with Green Peppers ($19.80), impressed us with its balance. Tender chunks of chicken are stir-fried with diced lotus root, adding a pleasant crunch that contrasts nicely with the meat. While labelled "fiery", the spice level is actually quite approachable, allowing the aroma of fresh green peppers to shine through. A solid, flavour-forward dish that pairs especially well with rice.

Water Chestnut Boba Drink 3.8/5

Popping pearl boba drinks seem to be everywhere these days, and Tanyu's Water Chestnut Boba Drink ($3.80) fits right into the trend. Lightly sweet and refreshing, it pairs well with the heavier, spice-driven dishes. While not a standout on its own, it does its job as a cooling companion.

Double Taste Rice Cake 4/5

We concluded the meal with the Double Taste Rice Cake ($4.80) and wished we had room for more. Crisp on the outside and soft, chewy on the inside, the rice cake is drizzled with brown sugar for a comforting, dessert-like finish.

TANYU's refreshed concept brings new energy to an already popular brand. The interactive skewer experience adds variety and flexibility, making it easier to mix, match, and share without committing to a single main dish. Combined with their reliable grilled fish and affordable pricing, it's a fuss-free spot for casual meals with friends, especially if you enjoy bold flavours and a lively atmosphere.

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


Tanyu (探鱼烤鱼)
313@Somerset
313 Orchard Road
B3-30/31/32
Singapore 238895
Tel: +65 65098887
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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

Fat Prince @ Peck Seah Street - Mediterranean Food in Singapore with Middle Eastern Soul

Fat Prince is one of those restaurants where the moment you step in, you already know you're in for a treat. Warm light, low seating, soft fabrics. The air hums with conversation and clinking glasses. Intimate yet lively, this is Mediterranean dining with Middle Eastern flair, done the Fat Prince way.

Cashew Hummus 4/5

We started with the house-baked pita bread served with cashew hummus and baba ganoush. The Cashew Hummus ($14) was creamy and nutty, topped with a roasted cashew gremolata and smoked paprika.

Baba Ganoush 4/5

The Baba Ganoush ($14) was smoky and bright, topped with a harissa-tomato topping and fresh parsley. Both were delicious spread over the warm Pita Bread ($5 per piece). Other dip options include Muhammara ($14) and Labneh ($12).

Egyptian House Roll with Date Butter 4/5

Their pillowy-soft Egyptian House Roll ($8), also house-baked, deserves a mention of its own. It comes with a date butter that's slightly sweet, and feels like a Middle Eastern twist on honey butter.

Halloumi 4.5/5

One of the table favourites was the Halloumi drizzled with truffle honey ($16). The cheese was grilled to a golden crust, springy inside, salty in a good way, and the truffle honey added a lovely sweetness and aroma, making us all eye for that last piece.

Chicken and Lamb Skewers 4.5/5

The skewers arrived on a rather impressive large platter, and the meat was plated with a flourish. The Chicken Skewer ($16/piece), served with a traditional Lebanese garlic toum, was tender and juicy with a lightly charred exterior. The Lamb Skewer ($18/piece) was nicely seasoned and complemented by a refreshing mint tzatziki that cut through the richness. They also have a beef skewer option, as well as other tempting mezze plates such as crispy calamari, Fattoush and Tabbouleh salads, fried cauliflower, falafel, and fried harissa chicken!

Build your own kebab - Fried Red Snapper 4.5/5

For sharing, the build-your-own kebab is a fun and communal way to enjoy the evening. The ingredients are vibrant and fresh! We had the Fried Red Snapper ($48), which I loved! It's crispy on the outside, flaky and tender inside, and paired with a very appetising fennel slaw, tahini yoghurt, and pickled vine peppers. If fish isn't your thing, they also have a version with Wagyu Beef Cheek ($68) or a vegetarian Grilled King Oyster Mushroom ($32).

Marble Potatoes with Harissa Aioli 4.2/5

On the side, the Marble Potatoes with Harissa Aioli ($12) were dangerously snackable. Crispy skins, fluffy centres, and a smoky-spicy aioli that kept us reaching for more.

Dubai Chocolate Knafeh 4.2/5

Fat Prince doesn't let the meal taper off quietly; the desserts demand some attention, too. The Dubai Chocolate Knafeh ($15) was warm, decadent, and drenched in a dark chocolate sauce. Paired with rose and pistachio ice cream, it offered a contrast of floral and nutty notes. You have to devour it though, before the centre gets soggy from the ice cream.

Baklava Ice Cream 3.8/5

We also tried the Baklava Ice Cream ($14) served with orange honey, almonds, and shards of filo pastry. It has some of the crunch and sweetness of baklava, reimagined into an ice cream dessert.

Drinks

Don't leave without trying their drinks. I like that the drinks menu is inclusive and offers Full Proof (classic cocktails with a full pour), Half Proof (half the alcohol but all the flavour), and No Proof (completely alcohol-free). It's perfect for someone like me who doesn't drink much but still wants a beautifully crafted drink in hand.

Fat Prince creates a dining experience that offers a fresh interpretation of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. The plates are designed for sharing, and the atmosphere invites relaxed conversations. Whether you come for the smoky skewers, the halloumi, or that pretty chocolate knafeh, you have a meal filled with character, warmth, and generosity.

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.


Fat Prince
48 Peck Seah Street
Singapore 079317
Tel: +65 8876 8769
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right onto Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Shin Katsu @ Tanjong Pagar Road - Tonkatsu Speciality Shop By Former Head Chef of Ma Maison

Shin Katsu is a newly opened tonkatsu speciality shop in Tanjong Pagar, bringing fresh excitement to Singapore's Japanese dining scene. Helmed by Chef Matsubayashi Masato, a tonkatsu specialist and former Head Chef of Ma Maison, who brings over 15 years of experience from Japan, Spain, and Singapore. At Shin Katsu, Chef Masato brings his long-held culinary vision to life, focusing on premium pork cuts and a perfected breading technique to deliver tonkatsu that's crisp on the outside and juicy within.

Mangalica Rosu Katsu

The menu centres on premium, globally sourced pork cuts curated by Chef Masato, coated in a tried-and-tested panko breading technique that delivers a satisfying crunch while preserving the meat's succulence. The signature here is the Hungarian Mangalica pork ($42.80/160g), often dubbed the "Kobe beef of pork" for its rich marbling and buttery mouthfeel. Served in limited quantities daily, the Mangalica pork loin cutlet comes with a specially paired salt, refillable miso soup, charcoal-grilled rice, shredded cabbage, and housemade pickles.

Tonkatsu Sauce

The housemade Tonkastu Sauce was umami and sweet, with a fruity acidity that complement the richness of the cutlet well.

Mangalica Rosu Katsu Set 4.8/5

All tonkatsu dishes come with the set mentioned. I appreciate how every element on the plate was thoughtfully executed. The miso soup was sweet and savoury, with tender slices of daikon. The charcoal-grilled rice was plump, glossy, and subtly smoky. The cabbage was fine-cut and refreshingly crisp, while the radish pickles struck the right balance of acidity without being overly sharp. For those seeking variety, leaner yet flavourful options like the U.S. Kurobuta Rosu (pork loin) and Hire (pork tenderloin) are also available.

Katsu Curry 4/5

The menu is also rounded out with familiar comforts such as Ebi Fry and Chicken Katsu sets, along with Katsu Curry featuring a housemade sauce that truly deserves a try. Their curry sauce, made with charcoal powder and squid ink, is available à la carte as well. It's well-balanced, savoury without being overly sweet, and far more nuanced than the standard Japanese curry fare.

Chicken Thigh Skewer 4.5/5, Asparagus Skewer 4.5/5

To complement the mains, Shin Katsu also offers deep-fried skewers and small plates. I tried the Chicken Thigh Skewer ($3.80) and the Asparagus Skewer ($2.80). The skewers use a different type of panko, resulting in a distinct texture and flavour profile that delivers a unique experience compared to the tonkatsu.

Unagi 4.5/5, Kaki Fry 4.5/5

Among the appetisers, two seafood items stood out: the Unagi ($8.80) and Kaki Fry (oyster) ($4.30). Both were beautifully crisp outside, while the interiors, unctuous unagi and briny oyster, paired incredibly well with a tangy, rich tartare sauce, making each bite indulgent and addictive.

Boneless Chicken Wings 4.5/5

A likely crowd-pleaser is the sweet and savoury Boneless Chicken Wings ($8.80) glazed in a sweet tare and finished with a sprinkle of peppery-salty seasoning.

It's been a while since a dedicated tonkatsu concept came into the scene, and Shin Katsu impresses with its attention to detail, from the precise frying technique to the side dishes and thoughtful accompaniments.

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.


Shin Katsu
84/86 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088505
Tel: +65 88258311
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Turn left onto Duxton Hill towards Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn right onto Tanjong Pagar Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]