Sinchon Korean Anju & Drinks @ Neil Road - Bringing the Lively Spirit of Korea to Singapore

Nestled in the heart of Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar, Sinchon Korean Anju & Drinks brings the lively energy of Korea's iconic dining culture right to our doorstep. Inspired by the vibrant streets of Sinchon, Seoul, this casual eatery celebrates all things Korean — flavour-packed dishes, refreshing drinks, and the warmth of shared meals with Korean heritage.

Refillable Banchan 3.5/5

Sinchon offers two types of refillable Banchan, both of which are excellent palate cleansers. They are tangy, spicy, and delightfully crunchy.

Fresh Oyster 3.8/5

The Fresh Oysters ($25 for 5 pieces) were a highlight. They were served with minimal chilli toppings that enhanced rather than masked their natural brininess. The freshness was unmistakable, delivering a taste of the ocean in every bite.

Scallop Butter Grill 3.8/5

The Scallop Butter Grill ($24 for 4 pieces) was a delectable starter. The savoury melted cheese atop the tender scallops added a rich layer of flavour, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers.

Soy Sauce Marinated Crabs 3.8/5

Sinchon's Soy Sauce Marinated Crabs ($50 for 1 piece, $80 for 2 pieces) are marinated in-house by the owner. They boast a fresh taste with a perfect balance of saltiness. The crabs' jelly-like texture, combined with a hint of spice, creates a harmonious flavour that's truly satisfying.

We were told that the traditional way to enjoy this is with seaweed and white rice. It is a very interesting experience.

Mixed Sashimi Platter 4/5

It was our first experience with Korean Sashimi, and it was an eye-opener! Unlike Japanese sashimi's delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture, Korean-style sashimi boasts a firmer, chewier bite, with some cuts even offering a satisfying crunch. The variety of textures alone made it an exciting dish to explore.

What's even more delightful is the versatility of how you can enjoy it. You can dip it simply in wasabi and soy sauce, wrap it in shiso leaf or lettuce with garlic and chilli for a burst of flavour, roll it in seaweed, or pair it with Korean chilli sauce for a spicy kick. Each method brings out a unique aspect of the sashimi, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.

The Mixed Sashimi Platter ($68) offers a customizable selection of premium fish, including Rockfish, Korean Halibut, and Flounder, all flown in fresh from Korea. The options vary with availability and seasonality, ensuring the freshest catch every time.

Cheese Steamed Egg 3/5

A quintessential Korean comfort dish, the Cheese Steamed Egg ($15) arrived piping hot and fluffy. While the egg was slightly overcooked, the addition of cheese offered a rich flavour. A suggestion for improvement would be to incorporate melted cheese within the egg for a smoother texture rather than placing it on top.

Japchae 3.5/5

The Japchae ($22) featured a medley of vegetables, mushrooms, fish cake, and chewy glass noodles, all brought together with fragrant sesame oil. While the flavours were milder compared to other versions, the overall dish was light and satisfying.

Kimchi Pancake 3.8/5

The Kimchi Pancake ($20) impressed with its crispy exterior and generous chunks of kimchi embedded within the batter. The pancake was light yet flavourful, offering a delightful balance of textures, tanginess and spice.

Kimchi Fried Rice 4/5

Sinchon's Kimchi Fried Rice ($15) was an undeniable favourite. It was packed with strong kimchi flavours and topped with a perfectly crispy egg with a runny yolk and seaweed garnish. This dish was so addictive that it kept us coming back for more.

Stir-Fry Chilli Pork 3.5/5

Served on a sizzling hotplate, the Stir-Fry Chilli Pork ($30) featured marinated pork chunks accompanied by fresh lettuce and big pieces of Shiso leaves, which is rarely seen in Singapore's version of this dish. While the dish was flavourful, the pork could have been more tender and spicier to elevate the experience.

Clams Stew 4/5

The Clams Stew ($40) served bubbling over a flame is on fire, literally. The spicy broth was packed with meaty clams, sweet white radish and a fiery kick that made it perfect for a rainy night. However, non-spicy eaters should approach with caution!

Mango Soju and Watermelon Soju 4/5

Refreshing and vibrant, the Mango Soju and Watermelon Soju ($18 per glass, $48 per jug) were delightful beverages to accompany the meal. The fruity Soju also come in pineapple flavour, adding a fun twist to the dining experience.

After indulging in Sinchon's diverse menu, it's clear that this spot is more than just a restaurant — it's an experience. The thoughtful attention to detail, authentic Korean flavours, and relaxed vibe make it a perfect place for food lovers and social diners alike. Come here for a slice of Seoul in Singapore.

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


Sinchon
55 Neil Road
Singapore 088892
Tel: +65 81891538
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minut4es. [Map]

Ajoomma Korean Charcoal BBQ Restaurant @ Gemmill Lane - Celebrates June Holidays with Moo-ve & Tail Campaign, and A Revamped Menu Featuring Seafood Barbecue and Traditional Korean Dishes

Ajoomma Korean Charcoal BBQ Restaurant at Gemmill Lane is celebrating the June holidays with a new "Moo-ve & Tail" campaign. The campaign offers diners a chance to win various prizes, such as a free steamed egg, complimentary side dishes, free plates of pork/beef, and more. The grand prize is 30% off the total dining bill. Along with this exciting campaign, the restaurant has revamped its menu, featuring seafood barbecue delights and traditional Korean dishes.

Black Trumpette Angus Beef Tataki 4/5

We began our meal with the Black Trumpette Angus Beef Tataki ($32) and Truffle Steamed Egg ($16) to whet our appetites before diving into the barbecue. The Angus Beef Tataki was a standout, with its beefy richness beautifully complemented by the accompanying components.

Truffle Steamed Egg 4/5

The Truffle Steamed Egg, resembling a soufflé, was extremely fluffy and pillowy. The truffle's earthy note elevated its flavour profile.

Korean BBQ 4.2/5

Marinated Chicken Thigh 150gm

US Prime 2MM Beef Short Plate 150gm

2MM  Pork Belly 150gm

Moving on to the highlight of the night, the Korean Charcoal BBQ, I appreciated the use of charcoal fire, which imparted a wonderful smokiness to the grilled ingredients. For our BBQ selection, we had:

- Marinated Chicken Thigh (150gm)
- US Prime 2MM Beef Short Plate (150gm, $31)
- 2MM Pork Belly (150gm, $28)

Marinated US Scallops with Dill

South Africa Live Abalone

Besides the meats, the restaurant also offers a variety of seafood for grilling. We tried the Marinated US Scallops with Dill ($36 for 5pcs) and the South Africa Live Abalone ($18/pc). Watching the live abalone being grilled over the charcoal fire was a unique experience, as this is not commonly seen in most Korean BBQ restaurants.

Spicy Kimchi Tuna Soup 3/5

Apart from the BBQ, the restaurant offers several mains. We started with the Spicy Kimchi Tuna Soup ($20), a hearty and flavorful stew that showcased the bold and tangy flavours of the kimchi, making it a comforting choice.

Korean Beef Tartare Bibimap 4/5

The Korean Beef Tartare Bibimbap ($25) is an innovative two-in-one dish where traditional Korean bibimbap is topped with beef tartare. The beef tartare added a textural contrast and an extra layer of flavour, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dish.

Japchae 4/5

The Japchae ($23) featured glass noodles stir-fried with a variety of vegetables in a sweet-savoury soy-based sauce. The delightful mix of flavours and textures, along with the fragrance of sesame oil, made this dish a joy to eat.

Coconut Jelly with Coconut Ice Cream 4.2/5

We ended our meal with the Coconut Jelly with Coconut Ice Cream ($12.50). The coconut jelly, made with coconut water, was very refreshing, and the coconut ice cream added an extra touch of sweetness, rounding off the dinner perfectly.

Ajoomma Korean Charcoal BBQ Restaurant at Gemmill Lane offers an exciting dining experience with its "Moo-ve & Tail" campaign and revamped menu. The use of charcoal fire for grilling imparts a delicious smokiness to the dishes, while the inclusion of seafood and traditional Korean mains adds variety. Whether you're there for the BBQ or the mains, Ajoomma promises a delightful meal.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ajoomma Korean Charcoal BBQ Restaurant
No 2 & 4 Gemmill Lane
Singapore 069247
Tel: +65 8789 8650
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 11pm

Direction:
Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Taste Of The Yesteryears 今日事，当年情; A Celebration Of Heritage Cantonese Cuisine By Four Celebrated Masterchefs

Photo credit: InterContinental Singapore

For a limited period from 1 April to 30 April 2023, Man Fu Yuan at InterContinental Singapore presents for the first time 8 Hands collaboration between four celebrated Masterchefs, Chef Pang Lu Tin, Fok Wing Tin, Peter Tsang and Man Fu Yuan's Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan. The four of them have come together to present set menus for the taste of yesteryears, reimagining traditional Cantonese classics. Diners will be treated to their combined culinary expertise and a gastronomic adventure featuring premium ingredients and the best of Lee Kum Kee’s sauces.

It is an opportunity to taste the collective mastery in one single meal of much-loved traditional classics from the 1970s and 80s, presented with skills that have been honed for decades, perfected with modern techniques and laced with exquisite flair and premium ingredients.

Appetiser by Chef Pung

We started the dinner with a trio of appetisers by Chef Pung, whetting up the appetite. A beautiful trio of Chilled Spice Jelly Fish Head with Preserve Mandarin Orange, Crispy Duroc Pork Belly, and Steamed Egg White with Sea Urchin is on the plate.

Soup by Chef Fok

Soup, an indispensable part of Cantonese cuisine, is showcased in the Superior Pumpkin Soup with Soft Scallop sheet and Sharp Spinach by Chef Fok. Pumpkin is added to give colour to the superior stock and creaminess. The highlight is the soft scallop cooked using the traditional sou vibe technique. Yes, I was educated that Chinese cooking has sou vibe technique too, not only in Western cuisine.

Superior Seafood by Chef Aaron Tan

Next is the Braised 15-head South Africa 'Ji Ping' Dried Abalone, which Chef Aaron Tan perfectly cooks to achieve the 'Tang Xin', a jam-like, ramen-egg texture.

Poultry by Chef Peter

The Steamed Goose with Plum, Ginger and Chinese Wine by Chef Peter draws inspiration from the Teochew-style braised duck. Chef Peter has to substitute the goose with duck, which is still a delicacy. The whole duck is painstakingly wok cooked to seal the skin and then slow-braised with Lee Kum Kee's sauce. The result is flavoursome and tender.

Poultry by Chef Fok

Another poultry item on the menu is the Pan-seared Duck and Chicken with Water Chestnut Patty by Chef Fok. The golden brown patty is succulent and has a homely flavour that reignites many childhood memories.

Seafood by Chef Aaron

Packed with robust flavours is the Crispy Soft-shell Crab with Crispy Garlic, Dried Chilli and Scallion. The execution is similar to Hong Kong's Bi Feng Tang" style.

Rice by Chef Peter

We had the Crispy 'Guo Ba' Rice with Braised 'Guan Dong' Sea Cucumber and Abalone Sauce by Chef Peter for the rice dish. It is an elevated way of having carbo paired with premium sea cucumber cooked to a delightful bouncy texture.

Dessert by Chef Pung

The Chilled Coconut Pudding with Silky Bird's Nest by Chef Pung wrapped up our meal. It is a light yet refreshing dessert brimming with a silky bird's nest for a luxurious, sweet ending.

Sharing Menus
$88++ - $138 per person 6-course 3-5 persons

Individual Menus
$228++ per person Wine pairing $70++ per person 6-course
$398++ per person Wine pairing $88++ per person 7-course

Prices are in Singapore dollars and subject to service charge and prevailing government tax. Bookings made before 31 March 2023 will enjoy an early bird discount of 15% on the menu prices.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Daejim BBQ @ Craig Road - Korean BBQ Restaurant Offering Fresh Seafood Air-flown From Korea

The latest addition to the buzzy Korean BBQ restaurants in Tanjong Pagar, Daejim on Craig Road, sets itself apart from other Korean BBQ joints by offering the option of fresh seafood, air-flown from Korea. Inspired by traditional Korean pojangmacha, where people gather over grilled meats and drinks, Daejim also provides a large selection of soju, makgeolli, beers, liquors and non-alcoholic beverages and their very own signature cocktails are a must-try.

Assorted Bancha 4/5

Rolled Omelette

While waiting for our seafood and meats to be prepared, we tucked into the banchan provided that were pretty wholesome. I love the housemade Kimchi here. They had a very good spicy kick balanced with a hint of sweetness. Compared to the commercial ones, they had a better depth of flavour and were less acidic. Having the Jaechae as a banchan is a bonus, especially when it was so deliciously done. Another highlight is the Rolled Omelette, which is also less commonly available.

Seafood Set

Daejim prides itself on providing premium grilled seafood to its customers, including abalone, octopus, scallops, squid and oysters. Its fresh seafood selection includes Ganjang Saewoo (soy-marinated raw prawns), Ojingeo-tonggui (marinated spicy BBQ Squid) and Godeungeo (grilled mackerel). We tried the signature Seafood Set ($118) that comes with oysters, scallops and even abalones.

Scallop with Cheese 4.5/5

Abalone 4.5/5

There are mini plates of butter and shredded mozzarella cheese, which you can melt over the fire or on the scallop itself. Slather the savoury butter over the abalone for an enriched texture and mouthfeel.

A Selection of Pork and Beef Cuts 4.5/5

The meat selection is equally comprehensive. The pork mainly comes from the Jeju Black Pig, known as the Kobe beef of pork. Daejim also offers a variety such as Kkotsal (prime cut boneless short rib, which translates to 'flower meat' in Korean due to its white flowers-like marbling). For the best of both worlds, you may choose the basic beef/pork set - USDA Beef/Pork Set with Prime Beef Finger-Rib, Sliced Beef Brisket, Pork Belly and Pork Collar.

Marinated Short Ribs

The Marinated Prime Beef Short Ribs had a satisfyingly rich texture, and it is best to eat it simply with the fresh lettuce provided without dipping sauce that might overwhelm their flavours.

Steamed Egg

Sundubu Jjigae 2.8/5

All sets include 1 Steam Egg, Choice of 1 Soup Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Soup ) / Sundubu Jjigae (Korean Spicy Tofu Stew) / Doenjang Jigae (Soybean paste stew) ), 3 Cream Cheese Croquettes and 1 Cheese Fondue. Unfortunately, my Sundubu Jjigae had a relatively weak soup base.

Honeycomb Makgeolli

The drinks here are superb. A must-try is the Honeycomb Makgeolli ($38++ for two people). The honey lent an uplifting flora aroma to the Makgeolli and a touch of sweetness, making it the perfect accompaniment to the savoury food.

Soju Cocktail

Another delightful drink is its Soju Cocktails, and we had this pretty pink lychee rose-flavoured soju cocktail inspired by the concept of bubble tea.

There's a launch promotion right now: Get 4x Cheese Scallops air flown from Korea with every order of the BBQ set for the whole month of September (from 1st till 30th September 2022). For more information, visit www.daejim.sg.

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.


Daejim
4 Craig Road
Singapore 089664
Tel: 9796 9593
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily:12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 2am

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchid Hotel. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Continue on Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]