Chen’s Kitchen @ Paragon Shopping Centre - Welcoming Lunar New Year With Festive Set Reunion Menus

For the upcoming Lunar New Year, Chen's Kitchen at Paragon Shopping Centre has introduced festive set Reunion Menus featuring its well-loved signatures alongside new dishes that will be added to the regular menu after CNY 2026.

Prosperity Yu Sheng 3/5

Double-boiled Lotus Root and Pork Rib Soup 3/5

The Blossom Set ($328++ for 4 pax) begins with a classic Prosperity Yu Sheng, followed by a comforting Double-boiled Lotus Root and Pork Rib Soup. The soup was simple, homely, and soothing.

Mapo Tofu Original 4.2/5

Three of Chen's Kitchen's signatures anchor this set. The Mapo Tofu Original did not disappoint, delivering umami-packed flavours with silky tofu that carried the sauce beautifully.

Sweet and Sour Barramundi 3/5

The Sweet and Sour Barramundi was delectable overall, though the fried exterior on the leaner parts of the fish leaned slightly thicker than preferred, resulting in more crust than meat. The sauce also skewed a little too sweet for my palate.

Mala Mayo Prawns 4.5/5

On the other hand, the Mala Mayo Prawns were succulent, elevated by a coating of mala mayonnaise on the exterior that delivered an indulgent, creamy mouthfeel.

Chen's Black Sweet and Sour Pork 4.8/5

Our family favourite was undoubtedly Chen's Black Sweet and Sour Pork. Each morsel was firm yet tender and deeply savoury, with a rich, well-balanced flavour that leaned more towards umami rather than tanginess.

Gongbao Chicken 4/5

The Gongbao Chicken was visually appealing, featuring tender, well-marinated chicken complemented by asparagus that added a refreshing crunch.

Szechwan French Beans with Mushrooms 4.5/5

The Szechwan French Beans with Mushrooms were thoroughly moreish, with crunchy beans paired with savoury minced meat, making it easy to keep reaching for more.

Double-Boiled Pear with Snow Fungus and Red Dates 3.8/5

To complement the flavoursome dishes, dessert is a refreshing chilled Double-Boiled Pear with Snow Fungus and Red Dates, offering a light and soothing finish to the meal.

4-Pax, 6-Pax and 8-Pax Reunion Menus are available for dine-in, takeaway and delivery

Promotions
Citi Cardmembers Exclusive — 20% Off CNY Set Menus (Valid from 9 Jan – 3 Mar 2026, excluding 16–18 Feb)
Early Bird Special — 15% Off for reservations by 31 Jan 2026 (10% Off 16–18 Feb)
Free Fortune Cat Blind Box with any set menu or Yusheng purchase
Angbao Giveaway (5 Jan – 3 Mar, while stocks last) with prizes including discounts on CNY sets, Yusheng offers, complimentary appetisers, or drinks

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. 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 the destination. Journey time is 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 is about 12 minutes. [Map]

The Soup Expert @ Suntec City - Brings Its Signature “Soup in a Pot” to Singapore

Renowned as the number one “Soup in a Pot” brand with over 7.5 million teapots served, The Soup Expert marks its first overseas debut at Suntec City, Singapore, this October. Best known for its nourishing Cantonese double-boiled soups served in charming individual teapots, the dining experience here is both comforting and symbolic. The soups are raised, poured, and shared in a gesture akin to a toast.

There are eight different double-boiled soups on the menu, priced between $10.90 and $14.90, each formulated with specific nourishing and health benefits in mind.

Chinese Dates Fig Root Chicken Soup 4/5

We started with the Chinese Dates Fig Root Chicken Soup ($10.90), a light and soothing broth said to support digestion and breathing. Brewed for four hours, the soup draws out a clean chicken essence, complemented by jujubes and fig root, both known for their fibre content and digestive benefits. Subtle, gentle, and easy to drink, this comforting everyday soup doesn’t overwhelm the palate.

Black Garlic Beef Bone Soup 4.2/5

The Black Garlic Beef Bone Soup ($13.90) offers a deeper and more robust flavour profile, designed to boost strength and vitality. The slow-simmered beef bone base is enriched with the caramelised, slightly sweet notes of black garlic, which is believed to energise the body and support immune health. Compared to the chicken soup, this version is richer and more intense, making it a satisfying choice for those who prefer a bolder bowl.

Blue Friend Fried Rice 3.5/5

The Blue Friend Fried Rice ($15.90) is a playful, tongue-in-cheek dish. Presented as a striking blue pyramid of Dongbei rice tinted with blue pea flower, it is tossed with edamame, cashews, and almonds for added texture. Putting the eye-catching colour aside, the flavour surprisingly resembles pineapple fried rice, minus the pineapple, thanks to the sweet notes from raisins and the nutty crunch.

Crispy Juicy Boneless Fish 3.8/5

A family-friendly favourite, the Crispy Juicy Boneless Fish ($12.90) delivers exactly what its name promises. Crisp on the outside and unexpectedly juicy within, the fish is coated in a sweet sauce that complements its delicate flesh. A squeeze of calamansi adds brightness, lifting the overall flavour and enhancing enjoyment.

Fruity Sweet & Sour Pork 4/5

The Fruity Sweet & Sour Pork ($16.90) turns out to be a pleasant surprise. Chunky pieces of tender, juicy pork are encased in a thin, crispy batter and coated with a well-balanced sweet and sour sauce. Served atop a bed of ice, the dish plays with hot-and-cold contrast. The addition of fruits like melon, kiwi, and blueberries gives it a refreshing, fruity finish that keeps it from feeling too heavy.

Cooker-Baked Dang Gui Chicken (Half) 4.5/5

Who serves a dish in a rice cooker? The Soup Expert does. The Cooker-Baked Dang Gui Chicken ($18.90 for Half / $36.90 for Whole) arrives dramatically in a rice cooker, and it’s easily one of the highlights of the meal. The chicken is marinated for over 10 hours in a secret recipe before being infused with angelica root (dang gui), red dates, and goji berries during cooking. The result is tender, flavourful poultry bathed in a nourishing broth. It is an excellent representation of Chinese culinary wisdom where food and medicine seamlessly intertwine.

Overall, The Soup Expert delivers a comforting yet distinctive dining experience that places wellness at the forefront without compromising on flavour. From its thoughtfully prepared double-boiled soups to its hearty cooked dishes, this concept feels both traditional and refreshingly novel in Singapore’s dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Soup Expert
Suntect City
3 Temasek Boulevard
#03-315/316/331
Singapore 038983
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Chatterbox Cafe @ Resorts World Sentosa - Chatterbox Opens Cafe Concept at Weave RWS with Signature Chicken Rice and Local Favourites

Chatterbox at Hilton Orchard Singapore is well known for its "most expensive chicken rice in Singapore". Now, it has expanded with a new concept, Chatterbox Cafe, at the new Weave Mall in Resorts World Sentosa, offering its signature Mandarin Chicken Rice along with a range of local delicacies, at a slightly more affordable price point, around $2 to $3 cheaper than its flagship location.

Grilled Satay 4/5

We kick-started the meal with the Grilled Satay ($15), available in both beef and chicken options. Grilled over binchotan, the skewers come with onions, cucumber, ketupat and a sweet-savoury peanut sauce. While the meat was well-marinated and tender, I would have preferred a deeper char for added smokiness. The highlight is undeniably the peanut sauce, which is nutty with a subtle tang from the addition of pineapple puree.

Sweet and Sour Kurobuta Pork 4.2/5

The Sweet and Sour Kurobuta Pork ($22) is a classic redefined. Premium pork is lightly battered, deep-fried, then wok-tossed in a bright, balanced sauce. I appreciated how the glaze didn’t lean overly sweet or sour, allowing the flavour of the pork to shine through without being masked by heavy batter.

Mandarin Chicken Rice 4.5/5

The star, of course, is the Mandarin Chicken Rice. While still premium-priced ($40 for half chicken, or $23 for an individual set), it remains one of the best-tasting plates of chicken rice you can find in Singapore. The rice is aromatic with chicken oil and pandan fragrance, while the poached chicken is juicy and succulent. The accompanying chilli sauce is fiery, zesty and ticks all the right boxes. It's a dish that justifies its reputation, even if the price may still divide opinions.

Chilli Crab

Another iconic local favourite is the Chilli Crab ($168 per portion), served with eight golden fried mantous for mopping up the luscious sauce. The portion is generous, best shared between two to three diners.

Stir Fried Prawn with Palm Sauce

The Stir Fried Prawn with Palm Sauce ($26) features large prawns glazed with caramelised palm sugar, delivering a bold, sweet-savoury depth with wok hei aroma.

Beef Hor Fun

The Beef Hor Fun is a comforting rendition, where velvety smooth rice noodles are infused with wok hei and paired with tender beef slices. Everything is brought together in a luscious black bean gravy that carries both smokiness and umami.

Sweet Platter 4/5

We ended on a sweet note with the Sweet Platter ($13), an assortment of Nyonya kuehs made fresh daily with recipes passed down through generations. These colourful treats not only satisfy the sweet tooth but also celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Singapore.

Overall, Chatterbox Cafe brings its signature Mandarin Chicken Rice and a curated selection of local favourites to Resorts World Sentosa at a more approachable price point. While still positioned as a premium offering compared to hawker fare, the quality of ingredients and execution make it a worthwhile option for those seeking elevated Singapore classics in a comfortable setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chatterbox Cafe
Weave Mall
Resorts World Sentosa
26 Sentosa Gateway
#02-207
Singapore 098138
Tel: +65 9654 4611
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Vivocity Level 3 to Vivocity Monorail Station., Take Monrail to Sentosa. Alight at Resorts World Station. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Yue (乐) @ Aloft Novena Singapore - Free Flow MSW Durian Together with an Upgraded Buffet Menu

With durian season in full swing, Yuè at Aloft rolls out a free-flow Mao Shan Wang durian buffet as a treat for its loyal diners. Even better? It's available alongside their upgraded à la carte zi char buffet, which now features a slew of premium additions. Due to popular demand, the 1-for-1 promotion has been extended too!

Singapore-style Chilli Crab 3.8/5

Duck Confit, Kung Pao 4/5

Poached Prawn 4/5

We were invited to try the new line-up, and there's plenty to shout about. Three premium dishes are limited to one serving per table, but they're worth ordering. The Singapore-style Chilli Crab features fresh, meaty crabs coated in a thick, slightly sweet sauce. While a tad too sweet for our taste, the freshness of the crab more than makes up for it. The Duck Confit, done Kung Pao-style, is fork-tender and pleasantly spicy. It is a brilliant East-meets-West twist that works. The Poached Prawns stood out for their sheer freshness. It was plump, juicy and a definite must-order.

Soup

Singapore-style Chilli Sauce, Deep-Fried Mantou 3/5

Over at the self-serve station, diners can help themselves to two soups: the Braised Fish Maw Broth with Crab Meat and Conpoy, which was decent but relatively standard, and the Old Cucumber Pork Ribs Soup, which was the slow-boiled soup of the day, really impressed us with its rich, homely flavour. For those who love chilli crab sauce but prefer not to get messy, the sauce is available on its own, accompanied by deep-fried mantou, served free-flow. We wish the mantou were a little crispier.

Sweet and Sour Pork 4/5

Among the main dishes, one of our favourites was the Sweet and Sour Pork with Popping Candy, which is a fun and surprisingly tasty combination where the crackling candy adds a playful texture. Just remember to break it up a little before dipping. Another standout was the Deep-fried Chicken with Dried Chilli and Szechuan Peppercorn, which was exactly what we want from a spicy dish - crispy, fragrant and totally addictive.

Deep-fried Seabass Fillet 4.5/5

Seafood-wise, there's only one item on the current menu, but it's a good one. The Deep-fried Seabass Fillet is served with a sweet and spicy mango sauce and hits all the right notes, featuring thick, tender fillets with a nicely balanced glaze that's both appetising and well-executed.

Yue’s Signature “LIMPEH” Bee Hoon 3/5

Egg Fried Rice 4/5

Mee Tai Bak 3.8/5

As for staples, we tried three options. Yuè's Signature "LIMPEH" Bee Hoon is one of their proud creations, but it tasted a little too ordinary for us. On the other hand, the Egg Fried Rice with Tobiko and Scallop was excellent. It was fluffy, well-seasoned and made even better with the occasional pop from the tobiko. The Mee Tai Bak with XO Sauce, Chai Poh and Chicken was a dinner-exclusive item. Slightly sweet, savoury and smoky, it reminded us of a cross between black carrot cake and char kway teow. If that is your flavour profile, you would love this.

To end the meal, diners can look forward to a DIY Homemade Beancurd bar with assorted toppings, along with chilled juices, coffee, and tea. If you're dining in the evening, you'll also get access to the Chilled Mango Sago, another dinner-exclusive that’s light and refreshing.

And of course, the highlight for many is the free-flow Mao Shan Wang durian, which is available as a top-up at $30++ per person, served at the alfresco area from Fridays to Sundays only. If you're only here for the durian, a standalone durian buffet option is also available, with the same 1-for-1 promotion at $108++ for two diners.

Yuè’s à la carte zi char buffet is available daily for lunch from 12pm to 3pm, and for dinner from 6pm to 10pm (Monday to Thursday) or 6pm to 10:30pm (Friday to Sunday). The current 1-for-1 promotion is valid until 28 September 2025, so don’t miss your chance to feast.

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


Yue (乐)
Aloft Novena Singapore
Lobby Level
16 Ah Hood Road
Singapore 329982
Tel: +65 68086846
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Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus number 139 or 145. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Yue (乐) @ Aloft Novena Singapore - Unlimited A La Carte Zi Char Buffet from $29.90++ with 1-for-1 Promotion

Yue at Aloft, nestled within Aloft Singapore Novena, launches what may be Singapore's most value-for-money a la carte zi char buffet, priced from just $29.90++ per person. And for a limited time, diners can enjoy an even sweeter deal with a 1-for-1 promotion (U.P. $59.80++/$71.80++ per pax, min. 2 to dine). The buffet features over 20 dishes showcasing Yue's signature modern Chinese cuisine with touches of local seafood flair. On top of that, each table receives two complimentary premium dishes: Crab with Creamy Milk and Salted Egg Lime Sauce and Kung Pao Duck Confit, making this deal even more irresistible.

Crab, Creamy Milk and Salted Egg Lime Sauce 3/5

While the Crab itself was fresh, sweet, and decently sized, the creamy salted egg lime sauce was overly zesty, throwing off the flavour balance. The sauce felt more citrus-forward than salted egg-rich, which may divide opinions.

Duck Confit, Kung Pao 3.8/5

The Kung Pao Duck Confit was a generous serving with two tender duck legs in a claypot. The meat was beautifully fork-tender, but the sauce lacked the bold, spicy, sweet punch typical of kung pao dishes. A little more heat and tang could have lifted it further.

Deep-Fried Mid-Joint Wings, Shrimp Paste 4/5

The Deep-Fried Mid-Joint Wings were a solid favourite. Deep-fried until crisp and marinated in shrimp paste, they were packed with umami and remained juicy inside. It is a classic zi char delight.

Crispy Baby Squid, Sweet Shrimp Paste and Ground Peanut 4/5

A clever, rojak-style take on Crispy Squid. These baby squid were deep-fried to a golden crunch, then tossed in a sweet shrimp paste and crushed peanuts. Addictive and well-executed. It is a standout dish.

Mapo Beancurd, Minced Pork 2.8/5

The Mapo Beancurd missed the mark. Using firm tofu instead of the usual silky type removed the velvety texture one expects from Mapo Tofu. Moreover, the sauce lacked the signature kick of doubanjiang and Sichuan peppercorns, making it flat and underwhelming.

Deep-fried Sea Bass Slices, Superior Soy Sauce 3.5/5

A simple and comforting dish, much like something you'd find in a home kitchen. The superior soy sauce played an essential role in adding depth and lifting the flavours of the tender Deep-fried Sea Bass Slices.

Cereal Prawns 4.2/5

This is a zi char staple that delivers on flavour. The Cereal Prawns are succulent and crispy, generously coated in buttery sweet cereal and fragrant curry leaves. They are comforting and well-balanced.

Sweet and Sour Pork, Popping Candy 4.2/5

The Sweet and Sour Pork was both playful and delicious. The succulent pork pieces were glazed in a tangy-sweet sauce, and the addition of popping candy gave it a whimsical, fizzy touch that added both texture and fun to the dish.

Spring Chicken, Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Tequila 3/5

Served sizzling, the Spring Chicken with Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Tequila was tender and well-flavoured. However, the dish lacked the aromatic complexity expected from the Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Tequila, making it feel more like a standard brown sauce braise.

Sliced Beef, Black Pepper Garlic Sauce 4.5/5

The Sliced Beef in Black Pepper Garlic Sauce was one of the stars of the night. The beef slices were juicy and tender, and the black pepper garlic sauce packed a sharp, pungent punch that paired exceptionally well with the meat.

Wanton Noodles Soup 2/5

The Wanton Noodles Soup is a letdown. While the noodles were decently springy, the soup lacked depth and body, resulting in a bland dish that felt more like an afterthought.

Yue's Signature 'LIMPEH' Bee Hoon 4.8/5

The must-order dish is Yue's Signature 'LIMPEH' Bee Hoon. A modern take on Chao Ta Bee Hoon, this version has a charred, crispy crust and deep wok hei. The soy sauce and lup cheong add an extra dimension of flavour, making it incredibly fragrant and satisfying. It is easily the best dish on the buffet.

Yue at Aloft impresses with a robust selection of zi char classics and playful modern twists. While a few dishes fell short of expectations, the value-for-money is undeniable, especially with the 1-for-1 promotion and free premium dishes. This buffet is worth every penny. It offers over 20 items, including crowd-pleasers like Cereal Prawns, LIMPEH Bee Hoon, and Sweet and Sour Pork with Popping Candy.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yue (乐)
Aloft Novena Singapore
Lobby Level
16 Ah Hood Road
Singapore 329982
Tel: +65 68086846
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Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Toa Payoh MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Toa Payoh Bus Interchange (Stop ID 52009). Take bus number 139 or 145. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]