FOC Restaurant @ Keong Saik - Reintroduced Signature Spanish Dishes That Defined A Decade in Singapore

FOC Restaurant has settled comfortably into its new home along Keong Saik Road, 6 months after relocating from its original space. The long-standing Spanish establishment continues its legacy of Catalan hospitality, serving bold flavours and refined plates that have defined the restaurant in Singapore for over a decade.

As the Lunar New Year festivities wind down, it’s a good time to take a break from reunion feasts and rediscover the vibrant flavours of Spain. With its cosy ambience, thoughtfully crafted dishes and well-balanced cocktails, FOC makes for a lovely spot for date nights, celebratory gatherings or a relaxed evening out.

Foie Gras Terrine & Ahrenka Caviar in Crispy Phyllo 5/5

Sea Urchin, King Crab & Tarragon Butter on Toast 3.5/5

We started the evening with two snacks. The Foie Gras Terrine & Ahrenka Caviar in Crispy Phyllo ($20 / 2pcs) was an instant highlight. The buttery foie gras terrine is sandwiched between a delicate, crispy phyllo shell and crowned with briny Ahrenka caviar. Each bite delivers a rich, indulgent contrast of textures that is crisp, creamy and luxurious.

Next was the Sea Urchin, King Crab & Tarragon Butter on Toast ($32 / 2pcs). While lighter in comparison, it carries a deep umami flavour from the sea urchin and sweet king crab, complemented by aromatic tarragon butter. It was enjoyable, though slightly overshadowed by the decadence of the foie gras bite.

“Huevos Rotos” Japanese Egg 4/5

Argentinian Prawns ‘al Ajillo’ 4.5/5

For tapas, we tried two classics. The “Huevos Rotos” Japanese Egg ($22) is served with crispy potatoes, Iberico ham, piquillo peppers and a light foam. Breaking the egg over the potatoes creates a comforting, creamy mix of textures. While the dish was enjoyable, we wished the smoky sweetness and spice from the piquillo peppers came through a little more prominently.

The Argentinian Prawns ‘al Ajillo’ ($32), on the other hand, was a standout. The prawns are cooked in a fragrant garlic sauce and paired with a spicy white bean emulsion that adds creaminess and depth. The sauce was so addictive that we happily mopped up every last drop with toast.

Seafood ‘Senyoret’ Paella 4/5

No Spanish meal is complete without paella, and the Seafood ‘Senyoret’ Paella ($54) delivers a generous spread of seafood including Carabinero red prawns, Hokkaido scallops and squid. The seafood was impressively fresh and sweet, and the flavours were well-balanced throughout the dish. We personally would have liked the rice to be slightly more al dente with a more pronounced socarrat (the prized crispy layer at the bottom), but overall, it remains a very solid and satisfying paella.

Suckling Pig with Cabbage ‘Trinxat’ 4.5/5

Another highlight of the evening was the Suckling Pig with Cabbage ‘Trinxat’ ($12 / 100g). The pork was incredibly tender, with beautifully crisp crackling skin that provided a satisfying contrast in texture. There was a slight gaminess to the meat, though the accompanying sauce and the earthy cabbage trinxat helped balance the flavours nicely. It’s a dish that showcases the richness and rustic charm of traditional Spanish cooking.

Flaming Grand Marnier Baba 4/5

To end the meal, we had the Flaming Grand Marnier Baba ($16) served with vanilla ice cream and confit orange. The dessert is theatrically finished tableside, flambéed with whisky while guests are warned about the robust alcohol kick. The baba itself is wonderfully soft and fluffy, soaking up the fragrant liqueur while remaining moist and airy inside. Paired with the creamy vanilla ice cream and citrusy orange, it makes for a lovely dessert to share.

FOC’s new Keong Saik space feels intimate, polished and welcoming. We were seated at the counter, which allowed us to watch the chefs in action, which is a delightful experience for food lovers who enjoy seeing the craft behind the dishes.

With its cosy atmosphere, attentive service and consistently well-executed Spanish cuisine, FOC remains a wonderful spot for special occasions, date nights or relaxed gatherings over good food and drinks. For those looking to visit during the day, FOC also offers a Weekday Lunch Promotion: a 3-course set lunch for $56++, with 1 diner free for every 4 guests, making it an attractive option for group lunches.

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


FOC Restaurant
32 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089139
Tel: +65 6206 5810
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 1130pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 12midnight
Sun: 6pm - 1130pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

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

Barrel Story of Hikibi @ Cecil Street - Modern izakaya That Brings Fire, Whisky, and Craftsmanship Together Under The Artistry of Hibiki

Barrel Story of Hikibi marks a global milestone as the first Hibiki-led concept restaurant to open outside of Japan. Located in the heart of Singapore’s CBD, this modern izakaya is guided by the spirit of omotenashi — Japanese hospitality expressed through sincerity, attentiveness, and thoughtful details. Bringing together wood-fire cooking, refined flavour construction, and whisky pairing, Barrel Story of Hikibi presents a contemporary interpretation of the Japanese izakaya experience. Open for both lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers flexibility through a well-curated à la carte menu alongside set dining experiences.

Festive Yu Sheng (pre-order required) 4/5

Given the Chinese New Year period, we began with the Festive Yu Sheng, which requires advance ordering. It came as a pleasant surprise to find Yu Sheng on the menu of a modern Japanese izakaya. It was an unexpected yet festive nod to local dining culture.

Smoked Nuts and Raisin 4.5/5

The Smoked Nuts and Raisin ($8) were dangerously addictive. Infused with deep smokiness, each bite was moreish and set the tone perfectly for the meal ahead.

Prosciutto, Cream Cheese & Strawberry Maki Roll 4/5

The Prosciutto, Cream Cheese & Strawberry Maki Roll ($18 for 4 pcs) was a delightful play on contrasts. Cream cheese and strawberry are wrapped in savoury prosciutto, resulting in a harmonious balance of sweet, salty, and creamy with pleasing textural layers. A Shine Muscat variation is also available for those seeking an elevated fruit-forward option.

Suckling Pig 4.5/5

The Suckling Pig ($22) came in the form of boneless pork belly cubes, crowned with crisp crackling skin and marinated in Chinese spices. Beneath the brittle skin lies a luscious layer of fat and tender meat. Paired with Japanese mustard, the dish felt familiar yet refined, reminiscent of our local sio bak, but executed with finesse.

Tonsoku Harumaki 4.2/5

The Tonsoku Harumaki ($12/pc) offered a clever reinterpretation of a spring roll. Braised pig trotter is wrapped in spring roll skin and deep-fried till golden. It immediately brought to mind Kong Bak Pau, but reimagined in a crispy, handheld format.

Uni-corn Croquette 4.5/5

A standout dish of the night, the Uni-corn Croquette ($24 for 2 pcs) delivered on both creativity and indulgence. Encased in a crisp shell is creamy corn, topped generously with uni. It’s an unexpected yet winning combination that truly impressed my palate.

BARREL Chicken Rice 4.2/5

The BARREL Chicken Rice ($46) is a Hibiki-inspired take on Singapore’s iconic dish. Garnished with caviar and served with an in-house special sauce, this is likely the most expensive chicken rice in town. Price aside, the flavours were spot on, from the fragrant rice to the chilli and ginger sauces, all on par with a good traditional chicken rice stall.

Aburi Wagyu Donabe 4.2/5

The Aburi Wagyu Donabe ($68) featured aburi A5 wagyu, cured egg yolk, green onion, and nori atop flavoursome rice. Comforting and deeply satisfying, the charred wagyu paired beautifully with the rice for a luxurious yet soulful finish.

Soft Serve “HIBIK!” 4.5/5

We wrapped up the meal with the Soft Serve “HIBIK!” ($12), made with organic honey and Maldon salt. Soft, creamy, and lightly sweet, the dessert was elevated by Hibiki-infused honey, a subtle but elegant finale to the meal.

Barrel Story of Hikibi successfully bridges Japanese craftsmanship with local familiarity, delivering a dining experience that feels both refined and approachable. Whether you’re here for whisky pairings, inventive izakaya dishes, or a luxurious twist on comfort food, Barrel offers a compelling reason to visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Barrel Story of Hikibi
The Quadrant
19 Cecil Street
Singapore 049704
Tel: +65 80287100
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

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

Hai Tien Lo @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Welcomes the Lunar New Year with Festive Celebrations and Culinary Delights

Executive Chinese Chef Edden Yap and his culinary team at Hai Tien Lo, Pan Pacific Singapore, have crafted a Lunar New Year feast that balances tradition with refinement. Available from 23 January to 3 March 2026, the eight set menus and à la carte specialities are designed to celebrate prosperity, happiness, and good fortune. We had the pleasure of sampling the Joyous Abundance Menu, a carefully curated journey through festive classics elevated with premium ingredients.

Vitality Yu Sheng with classic Whole Abalone, Lobster, and Smoked Salmon 4.5/5

A spectacular start to the meal, the Vitality Yu Sheng with classic Whole Abalone, Lobster, and Smoked Salmon is all about abundance and finesse. Plump whole abalone anchors the platter with prized chew and natural sweetness, complemented by succulent lobster and delicately smoked salmon. Tossed with crisp vegetables, pickled accents, crushed peanuts, and sesame seeds, the tangy-sweet house dressing harmoniously binds the textures and flavours. Luxurious yet approachable, this is prosperity served on a plate.

Double-boiled Dendrobium Chicken Soup 4.5/5

The restorative Double-boiled Dendrobium Chicken Soup, which features free-range chicken, fish maw, whole abalone, dried scallops, and sea whelk, is quietly elegant. Double-boiled with Dendrobium orchid stems, the broth is naturally sweet and crystal clear, infused with subtle herbal freshness and a lingering mineral nuance. It's soothing, refined, and deeply comforting, a perfect interlude before the richer dishes.

Sliced Crispy Barbecued Suckling Pig with Caviar 4.2/5

The Sliced Crispy Barbecued Suckling Pig with Caviar impresses with shatteringly crisp skin and tender meat beneath. Each slice is finished with caviar, introducing a briny pop that cuts through the richness without overpowering it. The balance of textures and flavours is precise, making this an indulgent yet measured dish.

Sliced Beijing Duck and Jelly Fish 4/5

The Sliced Beijing Duck and Jelly Fish brings together two classic Chinese delicacies with distinct personalities. Thinly sliced Beijing duck showcases lacquered skin and gentle smokiness, while jellyfish adds a crisp, cooling contrast. Together, they create a harmonious progression of textures and flavours — composed, refreshing, and engaging.

Steamed Half East Australian Lobster in Chinese Wine Broth 4.5/5

The East Australian Lobster shines in minimalist fashion, steamed to tender perfection. The accompanying Chinese wine broth lends subtle warmth and aromatic depth, enhancing but never overshadowing the lobster's natural sweetness. A lesson in letting premium ingredients speak for themselves.

Braised South African 10 Head Whole Dried Abalone with Sea Cucumber in Abalone Sauce 4.5/5

A ceremonial centrepiece, the Braised South Africian 10 Head Whole Dried Abalone with Sea Cucumber in Abalone Sauce celebrates patience and craftsmanship. The 10-head whole dried abalone is tender yet springy, paired with silky sea cucumber, all cloaked in a glossy, umami-rich abalone sauce. Each bite is indulgent, deeply savoury, and profoundly satisfying — a masterclass in Cantonese braising.

Sauteed Japanese A5 Wagyu Beef with Fresh Mushrooms and Green Vegetables 4.2/5

The A5 Wagyu melts effortlessly, its buttery richness complemented by earthy mushrooms and crisp green vegetables. Minimal seasoning allows the beef's natural sweetness to shine, making this a balanced and composed highlight of the menu.

Stewed Inaniwa Udon with Pan-fried East Spotted Grouper Fish Fillet in Fish Broth 4.2/5

A comforting yet refined course, the Inaniwa Udon absorbs the clean, oceanic sweetness of the clear fish broth. Topped with a lightly pan-fried East Spotted Grouper fillet, the dish achieves a delicate interplay of textures and flavours. It is elegant, soothing, and precise.

Prosperity Nian Gao coated with Peanuts and Shredded Yam 4.2/5

A festive dessert that balances tradition and texture. The tender Nian Gao is coated with crushed peanuts and shredded yam, offering a delightful contrast between chewiness and crunch. Golden and auspicious, it's a playful, celebratory take on a Lunar New Year classic.

Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Peach Gum and Red Dates, in Young Coconut 4.5/5

A luxurious finish, the Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Peach Gum and Red Dates combines bird's nest, peach gum, and red dates, served in refreshing young coconut water. Silky, gelatinous, and delicately sweet, it is light yet indulgent, leaving the palate nourished and satisfied.

Hai Tien Lo's Joyous Abundance Menu is a Lunar New Year feast that respects tradition while elevating it with premium ingredients and precise execution. From the celebratory Yu Sheng to the indulgent abalone centrepiece and refined desserts, each dish is thoughtfully composed, making it a festive dining experience that celebrates both flavour and symbolism.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hai Tien Lo
Pan Pacific Singapore
7 Raffles Boulevard
Level 3
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 68268240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

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

Fortune in Motion: Galloping into a Prosperous New Year with Shangri-La Singapore

One of the most anticipated Lunar New Year celebrations each year has to be at Shangri-La Singapore, and this year's festivities are nothing short of spectacular. Taking centre stage is a majestic revolving lantern (走/跑马灯), symbolising the turning of fortunes and the promise of prosperity. Surrounding it are beautifully presented Yu Sheng platters, inviting diners to toss to an abundant and prosperous new year.

Assorted Dim Sum 4.2/5

Our Lunar New Year dinner began with a refined platter of Assorted Dim Sum, featuring Deep-fried King Prawn Pastry with Chinese Chives, Deep-fried Glutinous Rice Sesame Ball with Diced Chicken and Salted Fish, Steamed Grouper Dumpling with Asparagus, and Steamed Scallop Dumpling with Egg White and Black Truffle. Each morsel was delicately crafted, showcasing finesse in both flavour and execution.

Abundance Pen Cai 4.8/5

Served in an individual mini claypot, the Abundance Pen Cai may be petite in size but is generously packed to the brim with premium ingredients. Highlights include abalone, stuffed dace fish, pan-fried fish maw, sweet and sour pan-fried prawn, dried scallop, sea cucumber, goose web, roasted pork, soy sauce chicken, dried oyster, fragrant mushrooms, white radish, taro, baby Chinese cabbage, fried beancurd skin, chestnut and black moss. Each layer contributed to a harmonious medley of textures and flavours, making this a standout dish of the evening.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Dried Scallops and Fresh Matsutake Mushrooms 4.2/5

The Double-boiled Chicken Soup was clear yet intensely flavourful, drawing richness from the essence of dried scallops and fresh matsutake mushrooms. Comforting, hearty and nourishing, this was a bowl that warmed both the palate and the soul.

Roasted Whole Suckling Pig Stuffed with Fried Glutinous Rice 4/5

A quintessential celebratory dish, the Roasted Whole Suckling Pig was elevated with a stuffing of fragrant fried glutinous rice. The skin was crispy and crackling, offering delightful textural contrast, while the aromatic glutinous rice added depth and richness to each bite.

Cod Fillet in Rich Seafood Bisque with Crispy Rice 4.2/5

The Cod Fillet in Rich Seafood Bisque impressed with its lightly crisp exterior encasing buttery, moist flesh. The robust seafood bisque delivered an intensified oceanic flavour, complemented by crispy rice that added an enjoyable crunch and textural contrast.

Pumpkin Sago with Bird's Nest 4.2/5

Jin Jun Mei Peach Resin Coconut Pudding 4/5

Desserts rounded off the meal on a satisfying note. The Pumpkin Sago with Bird's Nest, served charmingly in a mini pumpkin, was creamy and gently sweet, with the bird's nest lending a luxurious, gelatinous bite. Meanwhile, the Jin Jun Mei Peach Resin Coconut Pudding featured a chewy, nian gao-like texture, delicately infused with the aromatic notes of Jin Jun Mei, a premium Chinese black tea, offering a refined and elegant finish to the festive feast.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shangri-La Singapore
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 67373644
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)