LingZhi Vegetarian @ Liat Towers - A Fresh Take on Vegetarian Dining: Innovative Dishes Beyond Mock Meats

LingZhi Vegetarian by TungLok Group has been around since 1991 and is well-regarded in the vegetarian community for its quality dishes. It now welcomes its new Executive Chef, Michael Huang, who brings over 17 years of culinary experience.

Located on the fifth floor of Liat Towers, the restaurant offers both an open dining area and private rooms for various occasions. Chef Huang has introduced a refreshed lineup of dishes focused on health and environmental sustainability, using quality seasonal ingredients. His roots in traditional Chinese flavours also shine through.

Honey Potato with Osmanthus Flower 3.5/5

We began with the Honey Potato with Osmanthus Flower ($16.80), a chilled pyramid of soft sweet potato cubes glazed in a fragrant osmanthus syrup. It leaned on the sweeter side for me, though my dining companion enjoyed it.

King Oyster Mushroom and Assorted Fungus in Sichuan Pepper Soup 4.2/5

As a mushroom lover, the comforting King Oyster Mushroom and Assorted Fungus in Sichuan Pepper Soup ($29.80) was right up my alley. Served in a comforting Sichuan pepper broth, it featured a generous medley of mushrooms with crunchy celtuce for texture. Unlike the fiery broth one might expect, this had a gentle heat with a warm numbing kick. I wished it came with sweet potato noodles or vermicelli to soak up the flavourful soup!

Crispy Plant-Based Eel in Gong Bao Glaze 4/5

The Crispy Plant-Based Eel in Gong Bao Glaze ($22.80) is made with thinly sliced shiitake mushrooms fried to a crisp and paired with cashews. While the “eel” could have been slightly meatier in texture, it was crunchy, light and not oily. The glaze carried a mild sweetness and a hint of heat.

Pan-fried Stuffed Morel Mushroom with ‘San Bei’ Sauce 4.2/5

The Pan-fried Stuffed Morel Mushroom with ‘San Bei’ Sauce ($38.80) was another creative standout. Earthy morels are stuffed, pan-fried, and served over crunchy asparagus, all coated in a sweet-savoury San Bei sauce.

Spaghetti with Vegetarian Bolognese 3.8/5

I wasn’t expecting much from the Spaghetti with Vegetarian Bolognese ($24), but it surprised us with its balanced mix of tomatoes and mushrooms. It wasn’t as tomato-forward or as sweet as the usual versions.

These dishes and more are available a la carte or as set menus for groups of various sizes. While the prices lean higher, we appreciated the thoughtful creativity that sets the restaurant apart from more common vegetarian offerings, which often rely heavily on mock meats. Service was also exceptionally warm and attentive.

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.


LingZhi Vegetarian
Liat Towers
541 Orchard Road
#05-01
Singapore 238881
Tel: +65 6734 3788
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT Station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Wheelock Place. Go to the first floor. Exit Wheelock Place, turn left and walk down Orchard Road. Walk to destinaton. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Artichoke @ New Bahru - A New Era As A Pizza Parlor, Transforming from Mezza to Mozza

After 15 years of serving up bold and unapologetic Middle Eastern flavours, Chef Bjorn Shen has given his beloved Artichoke a fresh identity. The long-standing establishment has transformed from mezza to mozza with its brand-new concept – Artichoke Pizza Parlor. This new-school pizza joint celebrates pizza in all its playful, unpretentious glory.

Artichoke Pizza Parlor isn't about chasing traditional wood-fired Neapolitan ideals. Instead, its DNA is part 80s and 90s American-Italian pizzeria nostalgia, part new-school innovation, and all classic Bjorn. The result? An original pizza experience crafted for Singaporeans by a Singaporean who simply loves pizza - not the artisanal, precious kind, but the kind that sparks joy, indulgence, and memories of childhood pizza parties.

Beef Lasagna Nuggets 4/5

The Beef Lasagna Nuggets ($16) are frozen, breaded cubes of beef lasagna deep-fried to a golden crunch. Each bite delivers a contrast of textures. The soft, layered pasta is paired with a crisp breadcrumb coating, all pulled together by a bright, tangy marinara sauce.

Green N' Golden Kiwi 4.2/5

A surprise on the menu, the Green N' Golden Kiwi Salad ($14) features fresh kiwi (both green and golden) topped with pecorino, mint, and black pepper. It's refreshing and unexpectedly delicious, a clever play on sweet and savoury.

Super Crunch Fried Chicken 4.2/5

An Artichoke classic reimagined, the Super Crunch Fried Chicken ($24) lives up to its name. The juicy chicken encased in an ultra-crisp crust, glazed with za'atar honey and finished with garlic sauce. Sweet, savoury, and addictive.

Chicory Salad 3/5

The Chicory Salad ($20) brings together radicchio, endives, roasted red grapes, onions, herbs, mango amba dressing, whipped sesame, and falafel crumbles. While the bitterness of radicchio may not appeal to everyone, the sweet dressing and nutty falafel soften the edge of the acquired taste.

Creamy Green Harissa Prawn Spaghetti 4.8/5

One of the standouts, the Creamy Green Harissa Prawn Spaghetti ($34), is bold and flavour-packed. The zesty, punchy harissa sauce clings to each strand of pasta, making every slurp irresistible.

Rounds: Tropic Thunder 4.2/5

Pizza is the main highlight here, presented in three unique forms: Rounds, Stacks and Slabs.

The Tropic Thunder ($32) comes in the Rounds-style, which is airy, puffy-crust pizzas inspired by Naples' Montanara, fried then baked for extra texture. Topped with Parma ham, burrata, jackfruit, ginger flower, and honey, this is tropical decadence done right.

Stacks: Dirty Duck 3.8/5

Stacks-style is double-decker pizzas with layers of dough stuffed with ingredients. The Dirty Duck ($30) packs Bali-spiced duck, mozzarella, snake bean lawar, sambal matah, and coconut cream. Intense, punchy, and flavour-heavy. Though for me, the richness felt overwhelming for pizza, better suited to a rice dish.

Slabs: Beef Pepperoni, Pickled Long Pepper, Chilli Honey 4.5/5

The Slabs-style is where things get exciting. It is a hybrid of Roman and Detroit styles, featuring a rectangular base with a unique "undercrunch" layer of cheddar baked beneath the dough. The Beef Pepperoni ($26), topped with marinara, pepperoni, chilli honey, garlic oil, and pickled peppers, is balanced, spicy, and satisfying.

Slabs: Bacon Apple Pie 4.5/5

Even better was the Bacon Apple Pie ($32). Pancetta, apple butter, brie, baked apples, mozzarella, hazelnuts, and rosemary come together in a sweet-savoury harmony. Almost like a dessert pizza, it's unconventional yet a standout.

Sundae 4.2/5

The Sundae ($20) is a playful finish featuring passionfruit ice cream with lemongrass cream, banana bread croutons, meringue, and macerated strawberries. Light, tropical, and fun.

Cinnamon-Cherry Pie 4.2/5

A hearty bake, the Cinnamon-Cherry Pie ($18) combines almond frangipane and sour cherry filling within a buttery crust, topped with cookie crumbs and orange cream. A tart, fragrant balance of sweet and spiced.

Mud Cake 4.8/5

The Mud Cake ($14) is not your average chocolate cake. Served warm with banana & raisin jam, layered with banana bread, then topped with chocolate milk, Ovaltine crunchies, and smoked salt. Rich, nostalgic, and delightfully messy, it is pure Bjorn style.

Artichoke Pizza Parlor is Bjorn Shen's most personal and playful project to date. It's a place where pizza isn't bound by tradition but reimagined with bold ideas, local flair, and plenty of heart. Come with an open mind (and stretchy pants), and you'll leave grinning because pizza is meant to be fun.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Artichoke
New Bahru
46 Kim Yam Road
#01-02
Singapore 239351
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue: 5pm - 10pm
Wed-Sun: 11am - 10pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction River Valley Road and Clemenceau Ave. Cross the road and cut through UE Square to Unity Street. Turn right onto Unity Street and walk to Mohamed Sultan Road. Cross the road and walk to Kim Yam Road. Walk down Kim Yam Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

IL Giardino @ The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens) - Italian Cicchetti Dining with Asian Twists

il Giardino is the newest addition to The Garage at Level 2 of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, introducing an Italian dining concept served cicchetti-style, perfect for sharing among groups. Opening in time to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Gardens' UNESCO World Heritage status this month, the restaurant offers a lush, garden-side setting with Italian creations elevated by fragrant local herbs and subtle Asian touches. It's an inviting spot for couples, families, and friends to gather over good food and conversation.

Beer Bread 'Gnoco Fritto' with Ginger Flower Salsa Verde 4/5

We began with the Beer Bread ‘Gnoco Fritto’, served warm with a ginger flower salsa verde. The bread had a pleasant chew, reminiscent of our local ‘butterfly’ snack, with an airy pocket inside. The salsa verde added brightness and a subtle floral lift.

Artigiana Burratina 4.2/5

The Artigiana Burratina ($19) was luxuriously soft and creamy, paired with sour plum tomatoes, carrot purée, and trapanese & mint pesto for a vibrant punch of flavour. Almond nuts added a nutty crunch to contrast the creaminess.

Panzanella 'Singapura' 3.5/5

Panzanella 'Singapura' ($16) reimagines the rustic Italian dish with local twists comprising green mango, croutons, cashew nuts, and "ugly" heirloom tomatoes that might otherwise be discarded. The smoked tamarind vinaigrette tied it together with bright, tropical acidity.

il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes 4.2/5

These il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes ($16) delivered a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. Scallion and kelp lent an aromatic lift, while the roasted garlic aioli dip added a creamy, savoury depth.

il Giardino Slow Cooked Venetian Octopus 4.2/5

Seafood lovers can savour il Giardino's signature Slow-Cooked Venetian Octopus ($22 S / $32 L), tender and delicately infused with fresh lemon and Laudemio extra virgin olive oil (a premium blend from 21 historic estates in Tuscany). The dish is further elevated with housemade gremolata and ginger flower salsa verde, served alongside warm house bread. Adding to its charm, the octopus is plated tableside from a large pot, exuding a rustic elegance.

Spaghetti alle Vongole 4.2/5

Cooked to an al dente bite, the Spaghetti alle Vongole ($19 S / $28 L) was perfumed with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley. Herb crumbs on top added extra texture and savouriness.

Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli 4/5

The Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli ($16 S / $24 L) was rich with a five-cheese sauce, enhanced by fried sage and hazelnut for fragrance and crunch. The pear compote offered a refreshing contrast to the cheese’s richness.

Parma Pizza 3.8/5

From the Ciabatta Romana Pizza selection, the Parma Ham ($19 S/ $28 L) version came topped with parma ham, mushrooms, arugula, honey, and truffle cream. It offered a lively mix of sweet, savoury, and earthy flavours on a satisfying dough base.

Pan Roasted King Salmon 3.8/5

The Pan Roasted King Salmon ($28) was crowned with a crisp parsley and pine nut crust. The ginger flower salsa verde and Chef Felix's eggplant caponata, which was tangy and flavour-packed, made for a bright pairing.

Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken 3/5

The Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken ($18 half / $28 whole) was moist and succulent from brining and roasting, finished with a light Amalfi lemon caper sauce. A deeper char or punchier seasoning could elevate it further.

Slow Braised Osso Bucco 4/5

The Slow-Braised Osso Bucco ($28 S / $38 L) presents fork-tender veal bathed in a luxurious Barolo wine jus, paired with silky whipped potatoes and brightened by a zesty kaffir lime gremolata. This refreshing Asian twist cuts through the richness. Of the three mains, this was easily my favourite.

il Giardino Affogato 3.8/5

A decadent finale, the il Giardino Affogato ($14) featured gelato on a crunchy buttered base of almond and upcycled ground coffee. A hot espresso pour melted the Valrhona chocolate shell, revealing berries and mint — aromatic, dramatic, and delicious.

Crispy, Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' 3/5

Choose from vanilla, hazelnut, honey ginger, or blood orange sorbet/gelato with these airy, crispy Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' ($16). Dusted generously with powdered sugar, they were light and sweet, though more memorable for texture than flavour.

With its cicchetti-style Italian menu infused with local and Asian touches, il Giardino makes for a charming dining experience in one of Singapore’s most scenic settings. While some dishes could use a little more punch, most plates hit a satisfying balance between creativity and comfort, making it a welcome addition to the Botanic Gardens dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


IL Giardino
The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens)
Level 2
50 Cluny Park Road
Singapore 257488
Tel: +65 9831 1106
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Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Botanic Gardens MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Cluny Park Road. Turn left onto Cluny Park Road and continue walking down the road. At Cluny Park Gate, walk in and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sospiri @ IOI Central Boulevard Towers - Chic Italian Restaurant in the Heart of Singapore

Perched atop the newly opened IOI Central Boulevard Towers, Sospiri is one of the newest additions to Singapore's Italian dining scene. From the moment you step in, you're transported into a charming Italian-Mediterranean retreat, reminiscent of a Roman holiday villa. Bathed in natural light with breezy interiors, the ambience sets the stage for a food journey through Southern Italy, where fresh, quality ingredients take centre stage.

Burrata di Andria ai Pistacchi 4.8/5

We began our meal with the Burrata di Andria ai Pistacchi ($26), a beautifully composed starter featuring creamy burrata, smooth avocado, and prized Bronte pistachios. The pairing worked harmoniously, offering a balanced contrast of rich, milky cheese and the buttery crunch of nuts. A dish that's as elegant as it is satisfying.

Battuta di Tonno 4.2/5

Another highlight from the antipasti selection was the Battuta di Tonno ($26). The zesty brightness of Amalfi lemon, aromatic salmoriglio, and briny Pantelleria capers lifted this refined bluefin tuna tartare. Light, fresh, and layered with Mediterranean character, it made for a refreshing start.

Ravioli alla Vaccinara 4.2/5

Moving on to our pasta, we had the Ravioli alla Vaccinara ($35). Each homemade ravioli is filled with tender and flavourful ox tail, perked with lemon zest and complemented by the addition of pine nuts for a nutty finish.

Spaghetti alla Puttanesca 5/5

The standout dish of the evening was the Spaghetti alla Puttanesca ($30). The spaghetti was perfectly cooked al dente and coated in a punchy, spicy tomato sauce that brought depth and vibrancy to every bite. The dish was thoughtfully paired with summer vegetables, which added a refreshing contrast and balance to the bold, savoury flavours. It was a bright, satisfying plate that delivered both comfort and complexity, a clear favourite of the night.

Tiramisu 4/5

To round off the meal, we had the classic Tiramisu ($22). Well-balanced with just the right touch of bitterness from the espresso and sweetness from the cream, it was a familiar yet delightful finish to the dinner.

Sospiri al Limone 4.8/5

If you’ve got room for one more bite, don’t miss the Sospiri al Limone ($12). These airy, fluffy Amalfi lemon angel cake puffs are light, zesty, and highly addictive. I’d gladly save room or find a second stomach for these again.

Sospiri offers an elevated Southern Italian dining experience, serving refined dishes that remain true to their regional roots. With stunning city views, warm hospitality, and an exquisite menu that marries tradition and creativity, it's a welcome new gem in the heart of the CBD.


Sospiri
IOI Central Boulevard Towers
2 Central Boulevard
#07-02
Singapore 018916
Tel: +65 94780906
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Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 3pm - 12midnight
Sat: 1130am - 12midnight
Sun: 113am - 11pm

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

2) Alight at Shento Way MRT station. Take Exit 4 or 6. Walk to Commerce Street. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

CUDO @ Stanley Street - Modern Comfort Food with Latin Soul

Located along Stanley Street, CUDO is the latest bold concept by the team behind Siri House and Moxie. Rooted in the spirit of modern Latin American cuisine, CUDO draws on bold, comforting flavours reimagined through a contemporary lens. With Chef Steve at the helm, the menu offers a vibrant medley of dishes inspired by his culinary travels and nostalgic eats, all given a fresh, creative twist.

Torched Truffadito 4.5/5

We began our dinner on a high note with the Torched Truffadito ($25). This refreshing small plate features thick slices of Japanese yellowtail, macerated in soy sauce and gently torched for a touch of smokiness. Finished with chipotle aioli, pickled cucumber, and radish, the dish is a beautiful balance of freshness, savoury, and zesty crunch.

Warm Crab Queso 4.2/5

The Warm Crab Queso ($18) is CUDO's take on a classic cheese dip, elevated with luxurious touches. The dip combines cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, smoked mozzarella, and chilli cheddar, infused with Worcestershire, Tabasco, and white onion confit. Sakura ebi oil and crispy ebi add an umami punch, while zucchini and lump crab bring freshness and texture. It is perfect when scooped up with the accompanying fried tortillas.

Calabaza 4.2/5

A vegetarian delight, the Calabaza ($12) spotlights roasted Japanese pumpkin with a smoky chipotle aioli spiked with yuzu kosho. The sweetness of the pumpkin is complemented by pomegranate molasses, salty cotija cheese, and pistachio dust, which is a creative and flavour-packed small plate.

Disco Fries 4.5/5

Inspired by Chef Steve's time in Staten Island, the Disco Fries ($16) are indulgent, satisfying, and utterly addictive. Crisp fries are blanketed in mozzarella and cotija cheese, drenched in a beef jus-based brown gravy, and tossed with chorizo, pickled onions, and salsa Rosada. It's a glorious mash-up of American diner nostalgia with Latin vibrancy.

Chipotle Butter Prawns 4.2/5

The Chipotle Butter Prawns ($18) bring the heat and depth of flavour. Tiger prawns are rubbed with chipotle, roasted, and glazed with agave molasses before being finished with a torch. Served with house pesto and lime, each bite is smoky, sweet, and savoury with a zesty lift.

Grilled Seabass Fillet 3.8/5

The Grilled Seabass Fillet ($33) was beautifully plated with parsley-lime sauce and pineapple salsa, but the over-charred skin was slightly too bitter, distracting from the fish's freshness. While the flavour elements were sound, the execution slightly fell short of the mark.

Spaghetti Con Camarones 4.5/5

One of the showstoppers of the evening, the Spaghetti Con Camarones ($38), features squid ink pasta tossed in a luxurious Ancho bisque and topped with grilled tiger prawns. The sauce, made from sundried tomatoes, capers, white wine, ancho chilli paste, and seafood stock, packs rich, crustacean flavours balanced with tang and spice. Finished with chipotle oil, it's a must-order.

Coconut Tres Leches 4.2/5

Light yet indulgent, the Coconut Tres Leches ($14) delivers a tropical spin on the classic dessert. The housemade sponge is soaked in coconut milk, vanilla, and condensed milk, then sprayed with white rum and topped with coconut cream, toasted coconut flakes, and berry compote, making for a refreshingly sweet end to the meal.

Chocolate Tart 4.2/5

For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Tart ($16) hits the spot. A silky chocolate mousse ganache is encased in a tart shell and garnished with cocoa pearls, housemade chilli jam, and candied nuts, creating layers of richness with a slight kick.

Toffee Plantain 4.2/5

The Toffee Plantain ($15) is a decadent finale, combining a moist plantain-banana sponge with banana mousse, vanilla ice cream, and caramelised plantain. The orange zest adds a lovely citrusy lift, rounding off a dessert that’s both comforting and refined.

CUDO impresses with its thoughtful reinterpretation of Latin American dishes, presented with flair and rooted in comfort. From inventive appetisers to bold mains and delightful desserts, it’s a welcome addition to Singapore’s modern dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


CUDO
13 Stanley Street
Singapore 068732
Tel: +65 8221 6330
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 1130pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street, walk to Boon Tat Street. Turn left onto Boon Tat Street. Turn right onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Mccallum Street. Turn left onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]