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
Facebook
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]

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
Facebook
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]

Siong Tong Gai @ 313 Somerset - CNY Super Value Set

Siong Tong Gai, a seafood restaurant celebrated for its fresh steamed fish in superior broth, has opened its first Singapore outlet at 313@Somerset. Originally founded in Malaysia in 2008, Siong Tong Gai brings its signature flavours and dishes to local diners just in time for the Chinese New Year, offering a Super Value Chinese New Year Set Menu designed to bring festive cheer.

Prosperity Lao Sang with Jellyfish 3.5/5

Sea Bass Steamed Fish 4.2/5

The set began with a Prosperity Lao Sang with Jellyfish ($38.80), which whetted our appetites with its delightful textural play and refreshing flavours. Following this is the restaurant's signature Sea Bass Steamed Fish, featuring a perfectly moist and flaky fish enhanced by a garlicky broth that amplifies its natural sweetness.

Signature Braised Crab with Cucumber 4/5

Siong Tong Gai introduces diners in Singapore to the top 8 KL zichar crab flavours, a highlight of their menu. Among these, we tried the Signature Braised Crab with Cucumber ($63.80), a unique offering not commonly seen locally. The dish features a light and savoury broth accented by dried shrimps, enhancing the fresh crab's sweetness.

Salted Egg Yolk Prawns 3.5/5

The top 8 KL zichar flavours can also be applied to other seafood options such as fish, prawns, clams, and squid (sotong). For our prawn dish, we chose the Salted Egg Yolk Prawns. While the prawns were slightly dry, the salted egg yolk coating was flavourful and not overly rich, striking a balanced taste.

Three Treasure Vegetables 3.5/5

Sweet & Sour Pork 3/5

From the à la carte menu, we also tried the Sweet & Sour Pork and Three Treasure Vegetables. The pork offered a crisp texture with a delectable glaze, though a slightly meatier bite would have been preferred. The vegetables featured stir-fried pea shoots paired with shimeji mushrooms, all elevated by a sprinkle of fried garlic bits. While the dish was well-executed, a touch more wok hei could have further enhanced its depth of flavour.

From 21 January to 12 February, enjoy the Siong Tong Gai CNY Super Value Set consisting of Fish, Prawn (choice of flavour) and Crabs (choice of flavour) + 4 bowls of rice and 4 cups of Chinese tea ($198++ UP $242.40). Not available on CNY Eve

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.


Siong Tong Gai
313@somerset
313 Orchard Road
#B3-02/03/04/05/06
Singapore 238895
Tel: +65 69081393
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Little Elephant Thai Bistro @ Tiong Bahru - Authentic Thai Flavours in One of Singapore's Oldest Estate

Nestled in the heart of Tiong Bahru is Little Elephant Thai Bistro, a cosy Thai restaurant that promises authentic Thai flavours in a warm, inviting space. Having heard rave reviews about their food, we decided to drop by for a lunch visit to see if it lives up to its reputation.

Som Tum Thai - Thai Classic Papaya Salad "Spicy" 4.2/5

We started our meal with the Som Tum Thai ($8.90), a quintessential Thai papaya salad with a delightful balance of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavours. The freshness of the julienned green papaya paired with the crunch of peanuts made for an appetising start. What stood out was the preparation — spices were hand-pounded, and the salad was mixed a la minute, ensuring bold and vibrant flavours in every bite.

Tom Yum Kung (Clear/Creamy) 4.2/5

No Thai meal is complete without Tom Yum Kung ($16.90), the iconic hot and sour soup. Little Elephant offers two variations: clear or creamy. We opted for the creamy version, which was packed with depth and complexity. The harmonious blend of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavours was complemented by a rich, velvety texture. It was comforting yet bold.

Kailan with Oyster Sauce 4/5

We ordered the Kailan with Oyster Sauce ($9.90) to add some greens to our meal. This simple yet well-executed dish highlighted the crisp, fresh texture of the Kailan, which was enhanced by the savoury oyster sauce. Sometimes, less is more, and this dish proved that point perfectly.

Thai Lemongrass Sweet & Sour Pork 4.2/5

A unique addition to the menu, the Thai Lemongrass Sweet & Sour Pork ($14.90) offered a refreshing twist to a classic dish. Unlike the typical Chinese version, this rendition featured chunky, generously portioned pieces of pork with a fragrant lemongrass aroma that elevated the dish. The balance of sweet and sour flavours was spot on, making this an unexpected favourite.

Steamed Seabass in Lime & Garlic Sauce 4.2/5

A staple in Thai cuisine and a personal favourite, the Steamed Seabass in Lime & Garlic Sauce ($32.90) did not disappoint. The seabass was steamed to perfection, with tender and moist flesh that absorbed the vibrant lime and garlic sauce beautifully. The zesty tang from the lime made this dish incredibly refreshing and appetising — an absolute must-try for seafood lovers.

Little Elephant delivers on its promise of authentic Thai cuisine with flavourful, thoughtfully prepared, and reasonably priced dishes. The cosy ambience and attentive service further enhanced our dining experience. Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of Tom Yum or a zesty steamed seabass, this cosy gem in Tiong Bahru is well worth a visit.


Little Elephant Thai Bistro
Blk 57 Eng Hoon Street
#01-72
Singapore 160057
Tel: +65 6224 1646
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk straight down Zion Road. Walk to traffic junction of Zion Road and Tiong Bahru Road. Cross the road and walk to Seng Poh Road. Walk down Seng Poh Road. Turn left onto Eng Hoon Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Claypot & Cooked Food Kitchen @ Chinatown Complex Food Centre - Cantonese Fare that Opens Only for 3 Hours

Claypot & Cooked Food Kitchen is a humble hawker stall nestled in a corner of Chinatown Complex Food Centre, helmed by Uncle Hong, who brings forth traditional Cantonese delicacies honed through years of experience at renowned Chinese restaurants, including the iconic Lai Wah Restaurant, established in 1963 by the legendary "Four Heavenly Kings of Singapore Cantonese Cuisine".

Braised Fish Head 4.2/5

Getting a taste of the stall's offerings requires some strategic planning due to its limited operating hours. To secure a meal, one must arrive well before lunchtime. We arrived at 9:30 am to place our order, and by 11 am, our dishes were served. Unfortunately, those who came later, around 11 am, were all turned away.

Taking the spotlight first is the Braised Fish Head ($25), an impressive dish both in portion size and flavour. The fried fish head is generously bathed in a light yet flavourful gravy, accompanied by vegetables, tofu, and taro.

Sweet and Sour Pork 4/5

Among the array of claypot delights, the signature Sweet and Sour Pork ($7) stands out. Crispy pork, cloaked in a delicate batter, is enrobed in a sweet and tangy sauce, possibly tinged with hawthorn for a unique zesty twist.

Claypot Pork Liver 4.2/5

The Claypot Pork Liver is a true gem. It boasts thick slices of pork liver cooked to perfection in a savoury brown sauce infused with the aromatic essence of ginger and scallions, sizzling in the claypot.

Sea Cucumber Stew 4/5

The Sea Cucumber Stew presents bouncy sea cucumber alongside succulent roasted pork, mushrooms, and cabbage, all bathed in a rich and flavourful sauce.

Sambal Kang Kong 4/5

For those craving a kick of heat, the Sambal Kang Kong delivers, offering crunchy kang kong stir-fried to perfection in a spicy and aromatic sambal sauce, providing a burst of flavour in every bite.

Prawn Paste Chicken 3.8/5

While the Prawn Paste Chicken doesn't quite steal the show like its counterparts, it still holds its own with its mild yet satisfying prawn paste flavour.

Salted Fish Char Siew Shrimp Fried Rice 4/5

Finally, the Salted Fish Char Siew Shrimp Fried Rice wraps up the meal with its fragrant aroma and comforting wok hei, offering a simple yet satisfying conclusion to a wonderful meal.


Claypot & Cooked Food Kitchen
Chinatown Complex Food Centre
335 Smith Street
#02-83
Singapore 050335
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 10:30am - 12:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Pagoda Street. Turn right onto Trengganu Street and walk to the end of the street. Cross Smith Street and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Sago Lane. Turn left and walk down Sago Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]