Uncle Fong Hotpot Restaurant (方叔叔重庆老火锅) @ Great World - Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Purr-fect Duo Set and Cat-Inspired Creations

Uncle Fong Hotpot is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a playful line-up of cat-inspired creations, available from 17 September to 31 October 2026 at its Great World and Suntec City outlets. The highlight is the 10th Anniversary Purr-fect Duo Set ($168 for two people), which brings together the brand's signature Chongqing-style hotpot flavours, a variety of meats and seafood paste, and adorable cat-themed treats.

The set features two contrasting broths to cater to different palates. The signature Mala Broth delivers the bold, spicy kick that Chongqing hotpot is known for, complete with a Lucky Meow-shaped piece of beef tallow that adds a fun touch to the pot. For those who prefer something milder, the Fresh Fish Soup offers a lighter, gentler alternative, letting the natural flavours of the ingredients shine.

For the meat selection, the set includes Australian Oyster Blade Beef Shank, Premium New Zealand Lamb Slices and Pork Belly. Served in half portions, the selection allows diners to enjoy a variety of meats without filling up too quickly. The thinly sliced meats cook quickly in the bubbling broths, making them ideal for dipping and savouring with the respective soup bases.

The cat theme extends to the beverages, with each set featuring Kitty-shaped Iced Roselle Tea with Fresh Orange and Kitty-shaped Oolong Lemon Iced Tea. Both drinks offer a refreshing, fruity counterpoint to the heat of the mala broth, helping to cleanse the palate between mouthfuls of spicy hotpot ingredients.

One of the more playful additions is the Paw Paste, shaped like adorable cat paws and available in prawn and cuttlefish flavours. Once cooked, the paste develops a delightfully bouncy texture, with the seafood flavours coming through in every bite.

The set also includes Chicken Gizzard Skewers and a half portion of Pork Liver. I particularly enjoyed the chicken gizzards, which had a satisfying crunch and absorbed the spicy, numbing flavours of the mala broth beautifully.

For vegetables and mushrooms, the set comes with Sparassis Mushrooms and half a portion of the Vegetable Basket. This was my first time trying Sparassis Mushrooms, also known as cauliflower mushrooms, and I was pleasantly surprised by their distinctive, crunchy texture. They provide a refreshing contrast to the meats and richer hotpot ingredients. If you haven't tried them before, I recommend giving them a go.

Diners can choose one carbohydrate option: Wulong Sweet Potato Noodles from Chongqing, Inaniwa Udon, or Spinach Noodles. I chose the Spinach Noodles to round out the spread. Cooked in the flavourful broth, the noodles make a comforting addition to the meal while soaking up some of the soup's savoury goodness.

While waiting for the hotpot ingredients to cook, we also enjoyed the Chongqing Crispy Fried Pork with Fresh Green Peppercorns. Deep-fried to a golden-brown finish, the pork was tender inside with a crisp exterior, making it an addictive snack to munch on between rounds of hotpot. The fresh green peppercorns add an aromatic, peppery kick that complements the crispy pork.

To better appreciate the lighter broth, we ordered an additional plate of Sliced Fish to cook in the Fresh Fish Soup. The delicate fish slices paired well with the gentler soup base, allowing their natural sweetness to come through without being overwhelmed by the stronger mala flavours.

For dessert, each diner receives a serving of Glutinous Rice Balls with Iced Douhua. The soft, chewy glutinous rice balls paired with the smooth, silky beancurd pudding provide a cooling finish after a meal filled with spicy and numbing flavours. It is a simple yet comforting way to end the hotpot experience.

Beyond the dining table, Uncle Fong Hotpot has also collaborated with Hong Kong-based illustrator Curly Sai on a limited-edition blind box collection featuring Gogo (滚滚), the brand's specially appointed “Chief Taste Officer” for its 10th anniversary. The collection includes five collectable designs: four regular and one special. From 17 September to 31 October 2026, diners who order the 10th Anniversary Purr-fect Duo Set will receive one complimentary Gogo Blind Box, while stocks last. Each box is distributed at random, adding an element of surprise for collectors and cat lovers alike.

With its signature Chongqing-style hotpot, playful cat-inspired creations, and collectable blind boxes, Uncle Fong Hotpot's 10th anniversary celebration offers a fun twist on the usual hotpot gathering. The Purr-fect Duo Set brings together a variety of meats, seafood paste, vegetables and noodles for two, making it a choice worth considering for those who enjoy a hearty hotpot meal with a touch of whimsy. If you are planning a hotpot date with a fellow cat lover, this limited-time anniversary set might just be the purr-fect excuse to gather around the bubbling pot.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Uncle Fong Hotpot Restaurant
(方叔叔重庆老火锅)
Great World
1 Kim Seng Promenade
#B1-108/109
Singapore 237994
Tel: +65 6232 7800
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Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 6. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

The Coach Restaurant @ Jewel Changi - Launches Sunday Prime Rib Experience Featuring Premium Linz Ribeye Chicago USDA

The Coach Restaurant at Jewel Changi has recently launched its Sunday Prime Rib experience, an exclusive collaboration with Butcher Box showcasing the premium Linz Ribeye Chicago USDA Prime.

Prime Rib 4.8/5

The Prime Rib is aged for 20 days with beef tallow infused with burnt corn husks, then slow-roasted over hickory wood. Carved tableside, the meat was exceptionally tender with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, complemented by an alluring smokiness that added a remarkable depth to every bite. Served alongside a rich Veal & Beef Jus, the sauce further elevated the meat, rounding out its robust flavours.

Grilled Kale

Roasted Vegetables

Each set comes with two sides. The Roasted Vegetables tantalised with their delightful char, with a creamy butter sauce that boosted the mouthfeel. While the Grilled Kale appeared understated, cooking it over open flames imparted an appealing smoky aroma.

Baked Jacket Potato

The Baked Jacket Potato was finished tableside with crème fraîche, crispy duck fat, shallots, chilli and chives. Although the sides were thoughtfully prepared, we thought slightly more generous portions would have made for a more satisfying accompaniment to the prime rib.

The NY Burger 4.8/5

We also tried one of the favourites here, The NY Burger ($16). The burger was well-constructed, featuring well-toasted buns with lightly charred edges that held up beautifully against the juicy Wagyu beef patty, cheddar, pickles, and secret sauce.

Flaming PB&J Baked Alaska 3/5

For dessert, the Flaming PB&J Baked Alaska ($18) arrived with its meringue torched tableside for a dramatic finish. Beneath the toasted meringue lay a creamy peanut butter semifreddo with a layer of jam. I appreciated that the meringue wasn’t overly thick, allowing the filling to shine. That said, I would have preferred a more generous layer of jam for added tartness, along with a more pronounced peanut butter flavour to better recreate the nostalgic PB&J combination.

Complementing the meal is a well-curated drinks list. The Waffled Up Cocktail, a cheeky blend of Grey Goose Vodka and maple, surprised us with notes reminiscent of waffles. The full-bodied Silver Ghost Cabernet Sauvignon was an ideal pairing for the prime rib.

Overall, the Sunday Prime Rib Experience offers a satisfying showcase of quality beef, complemented by well-executed sides and comforting American-inspired classics. Sunday Prime Rib is available every Sunday at $68++ per person.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


The Coach Restaurant
Jewel Changi Airport
78 Airport Boulevard
#01-207
Singapore 819666
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Changi Airport MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Quan Hotpot
Hotel Michael
Level 1
8 Sentosa Gateway
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6577 6665
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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]

Shang Palace @ Shangri-La Singapore - Unveils a Refreshed Cantonese Menu

I am back at Shang Palace, Shangri-La Singapore, to experience its refreshed menu that redefines timeless Cantonese gastronomy through a contemporary lens. Guided by Executive Chef Daniel Cheung, the new offerings honour tradition while introducing refined techniques and elegant presentations.

The meal begins with a delightful Amuse Bouche featuring sweet prawn paired with a zesty sauce. The bright acidity complements the prawn's natural sweetness beautifully, awakening the palate and setting the tone for what's to come.

Trio of Dim Sum Items 4/5

We commence the dinner with a Trio of Dim Sum Items, each showcasing refined craftsmanship and thoughtful layering of flavours and textures. The Steamed Chicken Roll with Ham, Black Mushroom and Fried Fish Maw is comforting yet elegant, with tender chicken wrapped around savoury ham and earthy mushrooms, punctuated by the gentle chew of fish maw. The Traditional Deep-fried Hokkaido Scallop Dumpling with Supreme Broth delivers a delightful contrast: crisp on the outside, revealing a sweet, succulent scallop filling within. Rounding off the trio is the Steamed Crystal Dumpling with Black Truffle, Assorted Mushroom and Preserved Olive, where translucent skin encases an aromatic medley of mushrooms, lifted by the earthy perfume of black truffle and a subtle briny note from the preserved olive. Together, the trio offers a graceful introduction to Shang Palace's refreshed Cantonese repertoire.

Double-Boiled Soup 4.5/5

Next is a hearty and nourishing Double-Boiled An Xin Chicken Broth with Fish Maw, Sea Conch and Honey Dew. Ingredients including sea conch, chicken, chicken feet, fish maw, honeydew, jade bamboo and ginger are double-boiled for over three hours, resulting in a rich, velvety broth. The addition of honeydew is particularly intriguing and uncommon in traditional double-boiled soups. It imparts a subtle melon sweetness at the finish, adding complexity without overpowering the broth's savoury depth.

Baked Australia Pork Rib with Osmanthus Honey and Black Pepper Sauce 4.5/5

One of the highlights of the evening is the Baked Australia Pork Rib with Osmanthus Honey and Black Pepper Sauce. Rose wine is poured tableside before the ribs are flambéed, adding a touch of theatre. The pork ribs are exceptionally tender, falling off the bone with ease. The osmanthus honey lends a delicate floral fragrance, while the black pepper sauce delivers a bold, peppery kick. The sweet-and-spicy interplay is truly lip-smacking.

Baked Assorted Diced Seafood and Sea Conch with Cream Sauce 4/5

This dish is a nostalgic nod to Hong Kong's 1980s culinary era, where Chinese and Western influences converged. Traditionally cooked with Portuguese sauce, Shang Palace adapts it using a creamy white sauce akin to béchamel. The Baked Assorted Diced Seafood and Sea Conch with Cream Sauce is topped with mozzarella cheese and baked until golden brown, resulting in a comforting, creamy dish with a satisfying crust.

Braised Boneless Duck with Eight Treasures 4.5/5

The Braised Boneless Duck with Eight Treasures is served in a rich abalone sauce broth, alongside prawns, cuttlefish, pig kidney, chicken, bamboo shoots, fish maw, sea cucumber, and mushrooms. The duck is deep-fried before braising, a technique that tightens the skin, keeps it crisp, and removes any gaminess from the meat. The result is a luxurious, well-balanced dish showcasing both technique and tradition.

Deep-fried Crab Claw with Shrimp Paste and Almond Flakes 4.5/5

The Deep-fried Japanese Snow Crab Claw, stuffed with shrimp paste and coated with almond flakes, offers excellent textural contrast. The succulence and sweetness of the prawn filling are enhanced by the nutty crunch of the almonds, making this a crowd-pleasing classic.

Braised Assorted Vegetables with Preserved Beancurd in Claypot 4.5/5

Vegetable dishes shine just as brightly with the Braised Assorted Vegetables with Preserved Beancurd in Claypot. Featuring broccoli, Nai Bai, bamboo fungus, shiitake mushrooms, eggplant, snow peas, vermicelli and beancurd, everything is braised in a flavourful vegetable broth with preserved beancurd and vegetarian oyster sauce. The preserved beancurd sauce is the star, packed with umami and depth, while the vermicelli soaks up the delicious broth beautifully.

Chilled Pandan Pudding Topped with Bird's Nest 4.2/5

Dessert is a refreshing Chilled Pandan Pudding topped with Indonesian Bird's Nest and edible gold foil. Made from fresh pandan juice, the pudding is silky smooth and fragrant. The addition of bird's nest lends a touch of luxury, ending the meal on a light yet indulgent note.

Shang Palace's refreshed menu is a confident showcase of classic Cantonese flavours reimagined with finesse. Chef Daniel Cheung strikes an admirable balance between tradition and modern expression, delivering dishes that are comforting, elegant and thoughtfully executed. A worthy revisit for both loyal patrons and newcomers alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shang Palace
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 6213 4473
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards the Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 23 minutes.[Map]