Xiao Hun Mian 大師兄銷魂麵舖 (Spicy Noodle SG) @ Raffles City - Taiwan’s Famous “Soul-Stirring” Spicy Noodles Debuts in Singapore

Taiwan's renowned Xiao Hun Mian 大師兄銷魂麵舖 (Spicy Noodle) has finally landed on Singapore shores, opening its very first outlet at Raffles City Shopping Centre. With 18 outlets across Taiwan and queues that can stretch up to two hours, this noodle brand has built a cult following for its handmade noodles paired with its signature Master Chilli Oil and a drop said to stir the soul.

At the heart of the menu is the Spicy Beef Soup Set ($24.80). While the beef soup is served on the side, the real highlight is the bowl of handmade Xiao Hun Noodles, tossed in a trifecta of sauces: the house-made Master Chilli Sauce, Master Chilli Oil, and a secret noodle sauce. It may look deceptively plain, but this bowl packs an intense, addictive flavour. The noodles themselves are next-level. It was chewy, springy, and undeniably slurp-worthy. We found ourselves ordering an extra bowl of just the noodles to relive that divine texture.

Spicy Beef Soup Set 4/5

The Spicy Beef Soup, made by simmering beef bones for over 6 hours, was comforting but fell a little short on intensity. While warm and soothing, it lacked the depth and boldness we were hoping for, especially when paired with the fiery kick of the noodles.

Mild Beef Soup Set 3.8/5

For those who prefer a gentler kick, there's the Mild Beef Soup Set ($18.80). The broth is cleaner and more refreshing, making it perfect for diners who prefer a milder experience but still want to enjoy the noodle experience.

Fried Dough Fritters 3/5

The sides here are worth exploring too. The Fried Dough Fritters ($4.50), better known as you tiao in our local context, are perfect for dunking into the beef soup, much like how Singaporeans enjoy them with Bak Kut Teh.

Garlic Cucumber 3.5/5

We also enjoyed the Garlic Cucumber ($3.80), a crunchy, chilled side dish that resets the palate between bites with its tangy, garlicky notes. Another worthy companion is the Spicy Braised Spongy Tofu and Soy Chip ($4.50), which delivers both texture and umami, making it a solid accompaniment to the main noodle sets.

Spicy Braised Spongy Tofu and Soy Chip 3.8/5

Overall, Xiao Hun Mian offers a satisfying introduction to Taiwanese-style spicy noodles with standout textures and bold flavours. While the broth could use a little more punch, the noodles themselves are truly the soul of the dish, justifying the hype and long lines back in Taiwan. It's definitely worth a try for fans of beef noodles, spice lovers, and curious foodies alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xiao Hun Mian 大師兄銷魂麵舖
(Spicy Noodle SG)
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#B1-38 
Singapore 179103
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

White Restaurant @ Suntec City - Teams Up with Malaysia's Souper Tang For A Special Parents' Day Set

White Restaurant, the homegrown brand renowned for its 'Original Sembawang White Beehoon', partners with Malaysia's Souper Tang for a heartwarming Parents' Day collaboration. Known for their award-winning nourishing soups, Souper Tang has curated 11 of their specialities for this exclusive menu, available à la carte and as part of a set across all White Restaurant outlets in Singapore from 29 April to 30 June 2025.

Collagen Ginseng Chicken Soup 4/5

The Special Parents' Day Set ($98) begins with one of Souper Tang's signature broths, Collagen Ginseng Chicken Soup. Fortified with collagen powder and ingredients like whole ginseng strips, fish maw, cordyceps flowers, dried scallops, goji berries, braised shiitake mushrooms, and a large chicken drumstick, the soup boasted a deep, comforting flavour. I particularly enjoyed how the chicken was thoroughly infused with the essence of ginseng. That said, considering it's meant to be a collagen soup, its light consistency didn't quite deliver the expected richness I typically associated with collagen broths.

Abalone Sauce Pork Tendon with Multi-Grains 4/5

Next came the Abalone Sauce Pork Tendon with Multi-Grains, a dish brimming with protein and nutrients. Served piping hot, the pork tendons were simmered in a rich, umami-packed abalone sauce and accompanied by fried tofu. The tendons were soft and tender, delightfully chewy without any gaminess. Pork slices were also added to provide extra flavour and bite.

Imperial Seafood Pot 2.5/5

Continuing the collagen-rich theme, the set includes Souper Tang's Imperial Seafood Pot with White Fungus, featuring scallops, sea cucumber, fish maw, tilapia fillet, mini shiitake mushrooms, and sweet peas. While the dish was packed with a plethora of ingredients and generally flavourful, the overall experience was slightly underwhelming, particularly the sea cucumber, which was unpleasantly rubbery and bland.

Fragrant Pu Er & Goji French Beans 4.5/5

My favourite dish of the set turned out to be the Fragrant Pu Er & Goji French Beans. Stir-fried with minced meat, olive vegetables, and a splash of Shaoxing wine, the French beans were crisp, umami-laden, and utterly moreish. The addition of smoky black Pu Er tea and black goji berries not only elevated the dish's nutritional profile but also added depth and aroma.

Supreme Seafood White Beehoon 4.5/5

The Special Parents' Day Set comes with free-flow white rice, but you can top up $20 to upgrade to White Restaurant's Supreme Seafood White Beehoon, their beloved signature dish enhanced with premium seafood such as asari clams, prawns, and fish slices. All dishes from the Parents' Day Set Menu are also available à la carte.

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.



White Restaurant
Suntec City
3 Temasek Boulevard
#B1-131
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 80122678
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Moon Moon Food (雙月食品社) @ JEM - Taiwan’s Michelin-approved Restaurant Opens Its Second Outlet in the West of Singapore

Good news for Westies! Moon Moon Food (雙月食品社), the popular Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee from Taiwan, has expanded its footprint with a new outlet at JEM, Jurong East, joining its other locations at Ngee Ann City and VivoCity. After previously dining at the Ngee Ann City outlet, I was excited to revisit this beloved eatery, which is now conveniently located nearer to home.

Spicy Sesame Noodle 4.8/5

A must-try dish at Moon Moon Food is the Spicy Sesame Noodle ($13.80). The noodles are delightfully chewy with an excellent bite, tossed in a rich, nutty, and aromatic sesame sauce with a subtle kick of spice. It's comforting, addictive, and full of flavour. It is a bowl of slurping goodness that's hard to resist.

Braised Dish 3/5

Moon Moon Food also offers a selection of Taiwanese-style braised items, with nine options to mix and match. I tried the Bai Ye Tofu, Pork Moon Bone, and Pork Heart ($10.80 for 3 items). While the ingredients were cooked tender and well-soaked in the braising sauce, the flavours were relatively mild and didn't leave a strong impression.

Taiwanese Salty Crispy Popper 3.8/5

The Taiwanese Salty Crispy Popper is perfect for snacking. It comes in chunky, karaage-like bites that are juicy inside and crispy on the outside. Seasoned in classic Taiwanese fashion, it makes a satisfying nibble with your noodles or soup.

Peeled Chilli Pepper Chicken Soup 4.5/5

One of the highlights of the meal was the Peeled Chilli Pepper Chicken Soup ($18.80). The soup was light yet deeply flavourful, using a chicken broth base, drawing sweetness from cabbage and a gentle kick from peeled green chilli. The result is a comforting and warming bowl, perfect for rainy days or if you're feeling under the weather.

Moon Moon Signature Fried Rice 3/5

We also sampled the Moon Moon Signature Fried Rice ($13.80). While the ingredients were well-cooked and the rice had a nice texture, the overall flavour was too mild for my preference. A touch more wok hei or seasoning would have elevated this dish further.

Taro Toast with Ice Cream 3.5/5

To end on a sweet note, we had the Taro Toast with Ice Cream ($8.80). The crispy pastry encasing sweet, smooth taro paste was enjoyable, and the sesame fragrance added a nice touch. The accompanying ice cream helped balance the richness, making it a satisfying dessert, if not particularly stand out.

Moon Moon Food's arrival at JEM is a welcome addition to the West's food scene. Its authentic Taiwanese flavours, comforting soups, and signature noodles offer a taste of Taiwan in a casual, no-fuss setting. While some dishes could use a stronger flavour punch, the Spicy Sesame Noodles and Chilli Pepper Chicken Soup alone make it worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.

Moon Moon Food (雙月)
JEM
50 Jurong Gateway Road
#01-011
Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 6470 8209
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 10pm

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

Chamoon Hot Pot (享月汤皇) @ Scotts Square - Up to 40% Off For The New Truffle Omakase Experience

Chamoon Hot Pot, China's top clear soup hotpot brand, has launched a new 12-course Truffle Omakase Menu in Singapore. Dubbed the "Hermès Set Menu of the Hot Pot World," this luxurious offering is available at just $99.80++ per person (minimum 2 diners), with up to 40% off in its launch weeks starting from 16 May 2025. We were invited to try this decadent hotpot experience.

The dipping sauce is served directly to your table, setting the tone for a seamless and personalised experience.

Appetiser Duo Platter 3.8/5

Our meal began with the Appetiser Duo Platter: Braised Firm Tofu (tau kwa) and Braised Pork. While the tofu was a tad dry, both were flavourful and well-seasoned, offering a hearty start to the omakase journey.

Salmon Sashimi 4/5

Another appetiser in the set is the thickly sliced and refreshingly chilled Salmon Sashimi. It stood out with its clean flavours and creamy texture. It paired beautifully with the classic soy sauce and wasabi combination. It is simple but satisfying.

The real star here is the soup. We tried both the Signature Matsutake and the Morel Mushroom broths. The Matsutake soup delivered a bolder, more umami-rich profile, with a depth that speaks of health and tradition. The broth is so comforting and layered that we recommend enjoying a few sips before adding the other ingredients — let the base shine first.

Signature Matsutake Fried Rice 4/5

The Matsutake Fried Rice was piping hot in a claypot. This mushroom-forward fried rice was delightfully fragrant and packed with umami. Though it lacked the coveted "crispy bottom" that claypot is known for, the flavour more than made up for it. We found ourselves craving more - it's that addictive.

"Hermès" Beef & Prawn Paste 4/5

The beautifully plated "Hermès" Beef & Prawn Paste platter lives up to its name with handcrafted paste made with tiger prawn, wagyu beef, matsutake mushrooms, and dragonfruit. It was delicately seasoned to highlight the seafood's natural sweetness and the beef's richness. The platter is smooth, bouncy, and luxurious with every bite.

Australian M9 Wagyu 4/5

Melt-in-your-mouth slices of top-grade Australian M9 Wagyu were a delight. Rich marbling gave each bite a buttery texture, and the beef cooked quickly in the hot broth while maintaining tenderness and depth.

Tiger Prawns and Kanto Sea Cucumber 4/5

The Tiger Prawns were plump, fresh and sweet. Bonus points for the servers offering to peel them for us. The Kanto Sea Cucumber from Hokkaido, known for its smooth and slightly chewy texture, added a unique and luxurious bite to the meal.

Yunnan Wild Mushroom & Vegetable Platter 3.8/5

This colourful Mushroom & Vegetable Platter featured a range of mushrooms and seasonal vegetables flown in from Yunnan. It balanced the meal with earthy, wholesome notes and paired well with the robust mushroom broth.

Daliangshan Buckwheat Tea 3.5/5

The meal is complemented by a pot of Daliangshan Buckwheat Tea, a caffeine-free brew with a toasted, nutty aroma reminiscent of roasted corn tea. It's an acquired taste, but one that works well to cleanse the palate. Each set also includes fruits and dessert of the day.

Chamoon's Truffle Omakase is a luxurious hotpot affair that redefines the dining experience, focusing on premium ingredients and nourishing, broth-forward indulgence. From the earthy richness of truffle-infused matsutake soup to the handcrafted "Hermès" prawn paste and melt-in-your-mouth Australian M9 wagyu, every course is thoughtfully curated to delight the senses while supporting wellness.

To celebrate its launch, enjoy up to 40% off this indulgent 12-course set:

• 40% off from 16–22 May
• 30% off from 23–29 May
• 20% off from 30 May–5 June

For those seeking a more intimate gathering, Chamoon also offers private rooms that seat up to 12 guests, with a minimum spend of $1,200 - perfect for special occasions or hosting a premium hotpot party in style.

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


Chamoon Hot Pot 享月汤皇
Scotts Square
#03-01/02
6 Scotts Road
Singapore 228209
Tel: +65 6258 5232
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to Scotts Road. Turn right onto Scotts Road. Walk down Scotts Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Jiak Bar @ Far East Square - A Day-to-Night Taiwanese Eatery Bringing the Spirit of “Re Chao” to China Street

Tucked away on China Street, Jiak Bar is a charming dual-concept eatery that effortlessly morphs from a casual Taiwanese lunch spot by day into a vibey izakaya-style bar by night. Inspired by Taiwan's beloved "Re Chao" culture – where small, wok-fried dishes are served at bustling local joints – Jiak Bar introduces Singapore to its take on "Xiao Chao," with comforting street-style plates and a solid lineup of cocktails and Taiwan beers perfect for winding down.

Braised Pig's Ears 3.5/5

We started with a few small bites to warm up the palate. The Braised Pig's Ears ($5.80) offered that signature crunch from the marinated and tender cartilage, a classic Taiwanese snack done well.

Golden Kimchi 4/5

Unlike its spicier Korean cousin, the Golden Kimchi ($5.80) has a refreshing balance of sweet and tangy flavours that nicely whet the appetite.

Mala Soft Bone 3/5

Another crunchy option was the Mala Soft Bone ($6.80), mildly spicy with an addictive, numbing hint of mala, offering a textural contrast from the soft cartilage.

Oyster Popcorn 3.5/5

The Oyster Popcorn ($9.80) came golden and crispy on the outside, hiding juicy, briny oysters within. Accompanied by keropok and crispy basil, it was a playful and aromatic dish, though it could use just a touch more seasoning.

Taiwanese Stir-fried Pork 4/5

One of the more comforting dishes on the menu is the Taiwanese Stir-fried Pork ($9.80), which felt like something straight out of a home kitchen. Pork belly, tofu, and greens come together in a familiar stir-fry, with a touch of heat from red chillies rounding out the dish.

Three Cup Century Egg 3.8/5

The Three Cup Century Egg ($7.80) was a standout for those who love century eggs. Deep-fried for a crispy edge, then cooked in the classic Taiwanese "three cup" style — soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine — this dish also featured basil and peanuts for added texture and aroma.

Naked Pepper Chicken Soup 4/5

A personal favourite was the Naked Pepper Chicken Soup ($12.80), a unique offering in the Taiwanese repertoire. The addition of clams gave the broth an oceanic sweetness, while green peppercorns added a vibrant, peppery zing. It was comforting yet bold in flavour.

Claypot Mala Tofu Stew 2.8/5

Not every dish was a hit, though. The Claypot Mala Tofu Stew ($12.80) was a miss for me. While inspired by Taiwan's classic duck blood mala stew, the tofu substitute here didn't quite capture the essence. It lacked both the expected heat and the numbing intensity of real mala.

Hsinchu Fried Vermicelli Meal 4/5

For something more filling, the Hsinchu Fried Vermicelli Meal ($7.80) was satisfying and hearty. Springy, chewy rice vermicelli came paired with a fried egg and wu xiang, making this an affordable and complete one-dish meal

Crispy Chicken Braised Meat Rice 4.2/5

Another crowd-pleaser was the Crispy Chicken Braised Meat Rice ($10.80), which arrived as a generously loaded bowl. The braised pork had the right fat-to-meat ratio for richness, paired with a whole slab of crispy chicken cutlet, braised egg, pickled cucumber, and stewed cabbage. This dish really delivered on flavour and satisfaction.

Whether you're swinging by for a comforting Taiwanese lunch or settling in for a night of drinks and nibbles, Jiak Bar manages to channel the spirit of a true Taiwanese "Re Chao" joint with a contemporary twist. While not every dish was a knockout, the playful flavours, casual vibes, and thoughtful touches throughout the menu make this a spot worth checking out — especially if you're craving a taste of Taiwan in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jiak Bar
Far East Square
22 China Street
#01-01
Singapore 049564
Tel: +65 9733 9157
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Nearest MRT:

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 830pm
Fri-Sun: 11am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk down Cross Street to China Street. Turn right onto China Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]