Showing posts with label Tofu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tofu. Show all posts

Saturday, July 11, 2026

Man Fu Yuan @ Frasers House - Threads of Fire & Spice: A Four-Hands Cantonese-Thai Collaboration

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Man Fu Yuan (满福苑) at Frasers House, Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore presents Threads of Fire & Spice, a limited-time four-hands collaboration with Lily’s from The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, available exclusively from 17 to 18 July 2026. Bringing together the refined precision of Cantonese cuisine and the bold, aromatic vibrancy of Thai flavours, the experience unfolds through a thoughtfully curated menu that layers fire, spice, fragrance, and depth across each course. This spectacular 12-course dinner is priced at $208++ per person, with an optional 5-glass wine pairing available for an additional $50++ per guest.

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Amouse Bouche Lily’s: Emerald Yellow Fin 4.2/5

The evening begins on an elegant note with a trio of amuse-bouches that set the tone for the journey ahead. Chef Pop’s Emerald Yellow Fin (翡翠黄鳍) is both delicate and expressive — a matcha-infused crisp crowned with yellowfin tuna tartare, avocado-matcha puree, and ikura. The interplay of earthy matcha and the natural sweetness of the tuna creates a refreshing opening, lifted by the gentle salinity of roe.

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Amuse Bouche Man Fu Yuan: Ocean Elixir 3.5/5

Following that, Chef Aaron’s Ocean Elixir (海之清露) offers a chilled Teochew-style seafood consomme, its clarity and depth enhanced by fragrant lemongrass aromatics that lend a subtle Southeast Asian lift.

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Cold Prelude Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Pu’er Whisper 4/5

Completing the opening sequence is Pu’er Whisper (普洱烟韵), a collaborative creation featuring lightly smoked kingfish paired with smoked Pu’er tea, Tubtim Siam pomelo, Thai chilli puree, and calamansi. The dish delivers a refined balance of smokiness, citrus brightness, and restrained heat, showcasing the harmony between both culinary traditions.

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Soup Man Fu Yuan: Silk Tofu Consomme 4.5/5

The Silk Tofu Consomme (极汤锦绣豆腐, 奶白菜) is a masterclass in Cantonese technique. The consomme, painstakingly prepared from pork, chicken, and Chinese cured meats, is steamed over eight hours to achieve remarkable clarity and depth. Paired with handcrafted flower tofu of silky, almost ethereal texture, the dish reflects the discipline and finesse that define classical Cantonese cuisine.

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Ocean Lily’s: Chiang Mai Khao Soi Softshell Crab 4.2/5

Thai influences come to the forefront with Chiang Mai Khao Soi Softshell Crab (清迈软壳蟹) by Chef Pop. Here, sustainable softshell crab is paired with yellow noodles and ikura, all enveloped in a rich, aromatic Chiang Mai curry. The dish reimagines the beloved Northern Thai staple with a contemporary touch, balancing creaminess, spice, and umami.

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Poultry Man Fu Yuan: Perfumed Duck 5/5

A highlight from Man Fu Yuan is the Perfumed Duck (幽香泰茶鸭). The Irish duck breast is roasted and tea leaf-smoked, imparting a subtle smokiness that complements its tender, succulent flesh. A tamarind glaze adds a gentle tang, while plum tomatoes add brightness, resulting in a dish that elegantly bridges Cantonese roasting traditions with Thai-inspired acidity and fragrance.

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Signature Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Typhoon Lobster 4.2/5

The collaboration reaches a crescendo with the Typhoon Lobster (泰风 · 蒜香龙虾), a defining creation that encapsulates the menu’s spirit. Inspired by Cantonese “Typhoon Shelter” style cooking, the rock lobster is elevated with Thai and Southeast Asian aromatics. Crispy garlic, dried chilli, and a fragrant tom yum essence deliver layers of complexity, marrying wok hei intensity with vibrant spice and citrus notes.

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Heritage Lily’s: Massaman Wagyu Short Rib 4/5

Chef Pop’s Massaman Wagyu Short Rib (玛莎曼和牛) is another standout, offering a luxurious interpretation of the classic Southern Thai curry. The Wagyu short rib is slow-braised to fork-tender perfection, absorbing the deep, aromatic spices of the Massaman curry. Finished with a velvety Southern curry hollandaise, crispy fried shallots, and kaffir lime essence, the dish strikes a harmonious balance between richness and brightness.

The Scallop Legacy (带子皇炒饭) by Chef Aaron reinterprets Cantonese baked fragrant rice with king scallop, preserved vegetables, and cheese. Presented with a tableside flourish, the dish captivates both visually and aromatically — so much so that it momentarily distracts from taking a photo of it — but its comforting yet elevated flavours leave a lasting impression.

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Palate Cleanser Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Lime Lychee Cloud 4.2/5

A refreshing Lime Lychee Cloud cleanses the palate with its light, aromatic profile. The lychee sorbet, infused with kaffir lime and lemongrass, is bright and uplifting, preparing diners for the dessert finale.

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Dessert Lily’s & Man Fu Yuan: Golden Mango Duo Symphony Rice Pudding Mango 4.5/5

Dessert arrives in a duo that celebrates tropical indulgence. The Golden Mango Duo Symphony Rice Pudding Mango pairs creamy rice pudding with coconut and vanilla sauce, offering a comforting, luscious finish.

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Dessert Lily's & Man Fu Yuan: Mango Puree 4/5

This is complemented by a chilled Mango Puree with pink pomelo and peach collagen, delivering a refreshing contrast with its clean, fruity sweetness.

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Petite Four Man Fu Yuan: Milk Tea Egg Tart, Pandan Red Date Cake 4/5

Threads of Fire & Spice is a compelling showcase of culinary synergy, where two distinct traditions intertwine seamlessly. Chef Aaron and Chef Pop demonstrate how contrasting techniques and flavour philosophies can come together in harmony, creating a dining experience that is both refined and exciting. With its limited two-day run, this collaboration offers a rare opportunity to experience a thoughtfully orchestrated dialogue between Cantonese elegance and Thai vibrancy.

Note: This is an invited tasting


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

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Thursday, June 18, 2026

Man Fu Yuan @ Frasers House - Unveils Refined Cantonese Menu Rooted in Tradition and Transformation

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Award-winning Cantonese restaurant Man Fu Yuan (满福苑) at Fraser House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore, unveils a thoughtfully refreshed à la carte menu under the direction of Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan (陈健倫). Rooted in his evolving culinary philosophy, the menu reflects a deep respect for the foundations of traditional Cantonese cuisine while embracing modern reinterpretations and regional Chinese influences. Rather than reinventing, Chef Aaron focuses on transformation — preserving the discipline, finesse and depth of Cantonese culinary heritage, while presenting dishes through a more contemporary and refined lens. We had the opportunity to explore several highlights from the new menu, each showcasing a balance of craftsmanship, technique, and innovation.

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168-hour Cured Fresh Mantis Prawns 3.8/5

One of the most technically intricate dishes on the menu, the 168-Hour Cured Fresh Mantis Prawns ($118 per 250g) is a labour-intensive showcase of curing and fermentation. The mantis prawns are meticulously cured for seven days in a blend of Hua Diao wine, Rose Dew wine, and Shuang Zheng double-distilled rice wine, before being layered with aged first-drawn soy sauce and refined using white rice wine cleansing techniques. While the result is deeply aromatic and complex, the pronounced wine notes leaned slightly overpowering, overshadowing the natural sweetness and delicate brininess of the mantis prawns.

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Stuffed Prawn Paste Chicken Wing 3.8/5

A luxurious reinterpretation of the beloved local Har Cheong Gai, the Stuffed Prawn Paste Chicken Wing elevates the familiar with refined technique and premium ingredients. The chicken wing is carefully deboned while keeping the skin intact, then stuffed with a rich paste of prawns, water chestnuts, abalone, and minced pork. The exterior is glazed in a savoury-sweet sauce reminiscent of Korean fried chicken, offering a crisp, flavourful bite. Inside, the filling delivers a bouncy, juicy texture, creating a delightful contrast between the crisp skin and succulent interior.

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Shredded Silken Tofu, Spinach Soup with Premium Fish Maw 4.8/5

Inspired by the imperial dish Wensi Tofu (文思豆腐), the Shredded Silken Tofu, Spinach Soup with Premium Fish Maw ($48 per person) is a masterclass in knife skills and broth craftsmanship. The silken tofu is painstakingly hand-shredded into fine strands, suspended in a clear, superior broth alongside vibrant spinach and premium South African fish maw. Light yet deeply flavourful, the dish embodies elegance and technical precision, with each spoonful delivering a clean, comforting depth that lingers gently on the palate.

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Steamed Yellow Croaker 4/5

Bringing in subtle Northern Chinese influences, the Steamed Yellow Croaker ($180 per 800g) is prepared using classic Cantonese steaming techniques. The delicate, naturally sweet fish is paired with minced Iberico pork, water chestnut, mushroom and aged orange peel. The addition of pork fat enriches the dish, resulting in a savoury, aromatic broth that pools beneath the fish. The interplay of textures — tender fish, crunchy water chestnut, and umami-laden pork — creates a well-rounded and satisfying dish.

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Eight Treasures Golden “Hulu” Gourd Duck 4.8/5

A visually striking and symbolically meaningful dish, the Eight Treasures Golden “Hulu” Gourd Duck ($128) is meticulously deboned and shaped into a traditional gourd, representing prosperity and abundance. Instead of the usual glutinous rice stuffing, Chef Aaron opts for a lighter filling of premium ingredients, including ginkgo nuts, dried oysters, roasted pork belly, lotus seeds, wild mushrooms, and dried shrimp. The result is a beautifully balanced dish that is rich yet not overly heavy, with each component contributing layers of flavour and texture.

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Braised Morel Mushroom Stuffed with Prawn Mousseline 4.2/5

Another standout creation is the Braised Morel Mushroom Stuffed with Prawn Mousseline ($48). Each morel mushroom is carefully stuffed with prawn mousseline, showcasing consistency and precision in execution. Braised in superior stock and paired with water chestnut and broccoli, the dish delivers a harmonious blend of earthy, sweet and umami notes, allowing the natural flavours of each ingredient to shine.

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Slow-cooked Rock Lobster 4.5/5

The Slow-cooked Rock Lobster impresses with its perfectly tender, juicy texture — a testament to precise cooking technique. The highlight lies in the aromatic duo of garlic: fragrant fried garlic adds a nutty crunch, while steamed raw garlic brings a sharp sweetness and pungency. The addition of black truffle lends an earthy depth without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the lobster. At the same time, a touch of Man Fu Yuan’s superior soy sauce ties everything together into a glossy, umami-rich finish. Crisp scallions provide a fresh contrast, cutting through the richness elegantly.

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Wok-seared A5 Wagyu Beef in Mangolia Sauce 4/5

A luxurious take on the classic beef rice bowl, the Wok-seared A5 Wagyu Beef in Magnolia Sauce with Steamed Wuchang Rice and Egg Yolk pairs wok-seared A5 Wagyu with Magnolia sauce, Wuchang rice and egg yolk. The beef is expertly seared to achieve a caramelised crust while remaining buttery and tender within. The Wuchang rice, known for its fragrance and chewy texture, serves as the perfect base. When combined with the rich Wagyu fat and silky egg yolk, it creates a luscious, velvety coating that envelops each grain, delivering deep satisfaction with every bite.

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Bird’s Nest Egg Tart 4/5

A refined dessert that balances richness and delicacy, the Bird’s Nest Egg Tart features a buttery, flaky shell filled with smooth custard and topped with premium bird’s nest. The bird’s nest adds a subtle gelatinous texture, gently absorbing the flavours around it while lightening the overall richness of the tart for a more elegant finish.

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Chilled Mango Puree with Peach Collagen and Pomelo 4.2/5

Ending the meal on a refreshing note, the Chilled Mango Puree with Peach Collagen and Pomelo reimagines the classic mango pomelo combination with a modern twist. The addition of peach collagen introduces a soft, jelly-like texture, enhancing the mouthfeel. Juicy pomelo sacs punctuate the sweetness with bursts of citrusy brightness, keeping the dessert light, vibrant and well-balanced.

Man Fu Yuan’s refreshed menu is a compelling reflection of Chef Aaron Tan’s culinary direction — one that respects tradition while embracing thoughtful evolution. From intricate knife work to nuanced flavour layering, each dish showcases a commitment to technique and ingredient integrity. While certain creations lean bold in flavour, the overall experience is one of refinement, balance and craftsmanship, making it a noteworthy destination for those seeking elevated Cantonese cuisine with a contemporary edge.

Note: This is an invited tasting


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

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Sunday, June 7, 2026

Numb Restaurant (川麻记) @ Marina One - New Seasonal “Wild Origins” Menu, A Refined Journey Through Southwest China

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Nestled within the lush greenery and cascading waterfalls of Marina One, NUMB offers a dining experience that feels like a quiet escape from the city. With its latest seasonal menu, “Wild Origins”, the restaurant invites diners to reconnect with the raw, untamed flavours of Southwest China, drawing inspiration from the mountainous regions of Yunnan, Guizhou and Sichuan.

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Yunnan Wild Mushroom Black Chicken Soup 4.5/5

A comforting and nourishing start to the meal, the Yunnan Wild Mushroom Black Chicken Soup ($24.80, for 2–3 pax) is inspired by the forest abundance of Yunnan. Slow-simmered black chicken is paired with prized wild mushrooms such as porcini, agaricus and cordyceps flowers, resulting in a deeply aromatic broth that feels both restorative and delicately layered.

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Sichuan Spiced Grilled Beef with Lettuce Wraps 3.8/5

The Sichuan Spiced Grilled Beef with Lettuce Wraps ($30.80) features char-grilled beef seasoned with aromatic Sichuan spices, served with fresh lettuce for wrapping. While the beef itself is tender, it felt slightly underpowered on its own. The accompanying sauce and spice mix are essential to bring out the full flavour. Larger lettuce leaves would also improve the overall eating experience, making it easier to wrap and enjoy each bite.

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Marbled Wagyu Beef in Traditional Guizhou Sour Soup 4/5

This dish offers a contrasting profile to the earlier soup. The Marbled Wagyu Beef in Traditional Guizhou Sour Soup ($42.80) features premium wagyu slices simmered in a fermented broth. The result is a refined balance of tangy acidity, mellow spice and umami richness, complemented by mushrooms and tender beef. It’s a comforting yet complex dish that showcases the depth of regional flavours well.

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Signature Sizzling Fish Fillet with Tofu 4.5/5

A standout of the meal, the Signature Sizzling Fish Fillet with Tofu ($49.80) is filled with tender fish slices and tofu in a fragrant, spicy broth. The fish is incredibly soft and delicate, while the tofu absorbs the broth beautifully. The dish is rich in aroma and layered heat, though adding a contrasting texture, such as vegetables or vermicelli, would elevate it even further.

Drinks

NUMB also introduces a range of seasonal beverages inspired by wild fruits and botanical notes. We tried three:

• Wampi & Hog Plum Jasmine Iced Tea
• Pink Guava & Green Grapes Jasmine Tea
• Green Plum & Starfruit with Yunnan Olive

Each drink was light, refreshing and well-balanced, offering a nice contrast to the bold, spice-forward dishes. Priced at only $5.80 each.

Restaurant

To celebrate the launch of “Wild Origins”, NUMB is offering a limited-time Membership Top-Up Promotion at its Marina One outlet, with perks such as dining discounts, bonus credits and waived corkage.

Overall, the menu delivers a thoughtful exploration of Southwest Chinese flavours, balancing boldness with refinement. It’s a great spot for gatherings, whether for casual meals or more intimate group dining, especially if you’re looking for something that goes beyond the usual Sichuan fare.

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


Numb Restaurant (川麻记)
Marina One West Tower
5 Straits View
#01-12
Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 9460 1960
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line), Marina Bay (CC, NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 230pm, 5pm - 10pm

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

2) Alight at the Downtown MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Straits View. Turn right onto Straits View. Walk down Straits View. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Marina Bay MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn left onto Commerce Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, May 23, 2026

Quan Hotpot @ Hotel Michael - A Refined Five Elements Hotpot Experience

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Located at Resorts World Sentosa, Quan Hotpot is a contemporary dining concept that offers a refined take on the traditional hotpot experience. Situated within Hotel Michael (Level 1), the restaurant emphasises balanced flavours and sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, guided by the Chinese philosophy of the Five Elements — sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, and salty.

Departing from the communal pot format, Quan Hotpot serves its broths individually, allowing diners to tailor their experience from the outset. The selection is diverse, ranging from the rich Signature Singapore Laksa Broth to the comforting Traditional Congee Broth and Collagen Herbal Chicken Broth. Those who prefer bolder flavours can opt for the Classic Sichuan Mala Broth, while the Heritage Suan Cai Broth offers a tangy, fermented profile.

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I went with the Heritage Suan Cai Broth, which delivered a well-balanced tanginess that was both appetising and comforting. The acidity of the preserved mustard greens was gentle yet distinct, lifting the flavours of the accompanying ingredients without overpowering them. It proved to be a versatile base that grew more flavourful as the meal progressed.

Once the broth is selected, the experience becomes interactive with a selection of condiments presented tableside. Diners can mix their own dipping sauces to suit their preferences, adding another layer of personalisation to the meal.

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The Signature 4 Element Hotpot Set Menu ($68 per person) offers a comprehensive spread, covering premium meats, seafood, vegetables, housemade items, noodles, and dessert. It is a well-curated selection that balances variety and quality.

The Premium Meat Selection includes Organic Australian Pork Belly, US “CAB” Beef Short Plates, Kampong Chicken Thigh, and Sliced Salt Grass-Fed Australian Lamb Shoulder. Each was thinly sliced for quick cooking, with the beef short plate standing out for its tenderness and marbling, while the pork belly offered a satisfying balance of fat and lean.

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The Premium Fresh Seafood Selection features Live Tiger Prawns, Hokkaido Scallops, Fish Slices, and Live Korean Abalone. The prawns were firm and naturally sweet, while the scallops were plump and delicate. The abalone added a touch of indulgence, with a tender bite and subtle briny sweetness.

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The Vegetable Selection was equally satisfying, comprising Bok Choy, Napa Cabbage, Spinach, King Oyster and Shiitake Mushrooms, along with Beancurd Roll, Silken Tofu, Potato, and Sweet Corn. Fresh and vibrant, the assortment provided a good balance to the meal’s richer components.

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A highlight in both presentation and texture is the 5 Elements Fish Noodles, served in striking hues of orange, purple, yellow, black, and green. Beyond their visual appeal, the noodles offered a delightful chew and springy bite, making them a fun addition to the hotpot.

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The dessert was less impressive. The Flamed Meringue Ice Cream arrived with a theatrical flourish but leaned overly sweet, overshadowing the ice cream beneath. The Fresh Fruit platter provided a lighter finish, though the fruits lacked the sweetness expected to round off the meal on a stronger note.

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Overall, Quan Hotpot delivers a polished and thoughtfully executed hotpot experience. Its focus on individual broths, quality ingredients, and a balanced flavour philosophy sets it apart, making it a compelling option for those seeking a more refined take on this comforting dining tradition.

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Note: This is an invited tasting.


Quan Hotpot
Hotel Michael
Level 1
8 Sentosa Gateway
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6577 6665
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 5pm - 1030pm

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