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
Facebook
Instagram
Website
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]

Fu Hui Gen Tang (福慧根汤 ) @ Thye Hong Centre - Experience The Culinary Wellness Ritual Of Taiwan’s Famed 40-year-old Speciality Soup Restaurant

Fu Hui Gen Tang (福慧根汤 ), Taiwan's famed 40-year-old speciality soup restaurant, debuts in Singapore this February at Thye Hong Centre, bringing its renowned herbal wellness soup culture. Favoured by celebrities and politicians, its signature soup, crafted from 50 traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, is based on an imperial recipe from the Eastern Han Dynasty. Co-founded by Professor Wu, a renowned TCM practitioner, the restaurant marries ancient wisdom with modern refinement after years of research.

The soup follows the principles of five elements and five flavours, undergoing a meticulous "九蒸九晒" (nine steaming, nine sun-drying) process for optimal purity and balance. To fully experience its restorative effects, diners are advised to drink three bowls (600ml) of the soup before starting the rest of the meal. This allows the soup to enter the liver for detoxification, the spleen for nutrient absorption, and the kidneys for storage. Interestingly, the taste profile of each bowl changes depending on individual constitution, ranging from sweet, bitter, tingling, sour, to salty.

Fu Hui Gen Tang Chicken 5/5

The soup is available in three variations: Fu Hui Gen Tang Original, Chicken, and Mushroom. Diners can opt for an à la carte order or curated set menus, which pair the soup with a selection of complementary dishes. I tried the Individual Set Menu ($108 per person) featuring the Chicken variation, which had a deep herbaceous aroma but remained light and smooth on the palate. I was told the original variation delivers an even more intense herbal flavour. Drinking the soup might have a boozy effect on some individuals due to the accelerated blood circulation in the body. Back in Taiwan, diners will rest themselves on the tatami floor!

Black Fungus

Celtuce

After finishing the three bowls of soup, the meal began with two cold starters: Black Fungus with Vinegar and Celtuce with Preserved Snow Cabbage. The black fungus had a satisfying crunch, with a slight tanginess that whetted the appetite, while the celtuce offered a crisp texture and a subtle umami from the preserved snow cabbage.

White-braised Pig Trotter 3.8/5

Next came the White-braised Pig Trotter. Unlike the rich, heavily seasoned braised pork dishes, this version was much lighter in taste, almost reminiscent of Okinawan-style braised pig trotter. The clean flavours allowed the natural gelatinous texture of the pork to shine, though it could have been even more tender.

Vermicelli with Steamed Egg White 4.5/5

The final savoury dish was Vermicelli with Steamed Egg White. Japanese vermicelli is used for its texture and ability to absorb stocks. The soft, silky noodles soaked up the essence of the broth, harmonising perfectly with the delicate steamed egg white beneath.

Dessert was a serving of gelatinous White Fungus with Astragalus and Angelica. Lightly sweetened and infused with herbal depth, it was a soothing end to the meal, rounding out the experience with a lingering, aromatic finish.

Kindly Note: Fu Hui Gen Tang's soup is not recommended for individuals who have recently undergone major surgery, those with alcohol allergies, women in the early stages of pregnancy, and children under six years of age.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Fu Hui Gen Tang
Thye Hong Industrial Centre
2 Leng Kee Road
#01-05/06
Singapore 159086
Tel: +65 8805 5400
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Redhill (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue - Sun: 12pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Redhill MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Tiong Bahru Road. Continue onto Leng Kee Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Lo Hey Seafood (捞起海鲜) @ One Holland Village - Blending The Essence of Classic Hong Kong Seafood Restaurants with 1980s-90s Film Nostalgia

Lo Hey Hong Kong Seafood is the latest addition to the vibrant One Holland Village, bringing a slice of old Hong Kong to Singapore. The restaurant exudes a nostalgic charm with its neon lights, jade tiles, and live seafood tanks, all accompanied by a cinematic flair reminiscent of the golden age of Hong Kong cinema in the 1980s and 1990s. With its unique ambience and a menu celebrating Hong Kong's beloved seafood traditions, Lo Hey Hong Kong Seafood promises a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Lo Hey Tossed Chicken Salad 4/5

A creative twist on the traditional Yu Sheng, the Lo Hey Tossed Chicken Salad ($22.80) features tender, succulent poached chicken paired with a tangy vinaigrette that harmoniously ties together a vibrant medley of julienned vegetables. A final touch of peanuts and fresh coriander adds crunch and herbaceous notes, making this a refreshing start to the meal.

Hami Melon Sea Conch Chicken Soup 5/5

The standout dish for me was the Hami Melon Sea Conch Chicken Soup ($58), which is both heartwarming and nourishing. This soup is the result of meticulous preparation, simmered for eight hours to extract maximum flavour. The sweetness of Xinjiang Hami melon beautifully complements the umami richness of dried sea conch, scallops, pork ribs, and ginseng. The soup's savoury-sweet profile and restorative qualities make it a therapeutic and satisfying dish. Pre-ordering is essential for this comforting bowl of goodness.

Sauteed Long Beans with Dried Shrimps 4.5/5

The Sauteed Long Beans with Dried Shrimps is a simple yet perfectly executed dish. The beans retain their crunch, while the dried shrimp and pork lard add a savoury depth, elevating this humble vegetable dish.

Deep fried Chicken with Ginger 4.2/5

The Deep Fried Chicken with Ginger is an unassuming dish that allows the ingredients to shine. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the ginger provides a fragrant lift that enhances the overall flavour, making every bite deeply satisfying.

Deep Fried Soon Hock with Soy Sauce 4/5

We had the Soon Hock ($10/100g) from the live seafood tanks and opted for the deep-fried preparation. The result was a beautifully crispy exterior paired with moist, flaky fish meat. The soy sauce provided the perfect complement, enhancing the fish's natural sweetness.

Braised Lobster with Vermicelli 4.2/5

Diners can choose between Australian or Boston lobster for the live lobster. We opted for the Australian lobster (market price) and selected the Braised Lobster with Vermicelli cooking style. The vermicelli absorbed the crustacean's rich essence, making every mouthful an indulgent slurp packed with seafood flavour.

"Typhoon Shelter" Style Stir Fried Crab 4.5/5

A must-try is the "Typhoon Shelter" Style Stir Fried Crab, a classic Cantonese dish originating from Hong Kong. The crab is cooked with a fragrant blend of spices and aromatics, creating an enticing aroma that pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the crab meat. This dish encapsulates the bold and vibrant flavours of Hong Kong seafood cuisine.

With its nostalgic charm, focus on live seafood and celebration of authentic Hong Kong flavours, Lo Hey Hong Kong Seafood offers a dining experience that brings the essence of Hong Kong's cuisine to Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Lo Hey Hong Kong Seafood
One Holland Village
#03-22/23/24
7 Holland Village Way
Singapore 275748
Tel: +65 6592 2699
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Lorong Liput. Turn right onto Lorong Liput. Walk down Lorong Liput. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Summer Pavilion @ Ritz-Carlton Singapore - Usher in the Year of the Golden Snake at Summer Pavilion

Celebrate Lunar New Year in style at the one-Michelin-starred Summer Pavilion, where exquisite Cantonese cuisine takes centre stage. This festive season, the restaurant offers a selection of six- to eight-course set lunch and dinner menus, priced from S$158 per pax, available from 13 January to 12 February 2025.

Prickly Sea Cucumber Yu Sheng 4/5

Like every traditional Lunar New Year feast in Singapore, the meal begins with a Yu Sheng tossing, symbolising prosperity and abundance for the year ahead. This year, Summer Pavilion unveils an innovative Prickly Sea Cucumber Yu Sheng, elevating the classic dish with a unique touch.

Steamed Lobster Meat, Egg White, Black Caviar 4.5/5

The meal is then introduced with a duo of amuse-bouche. First is a vibrant Sautéed Prawn paired with cashew nuts, dried chilli, and balsamic pearls, a delightful mix of crunch and tang. Following this is the luxurious Steamed Lobster Meat with Egg White and Black Caviar, a refined interpretation reminiscent of a decadent chawanmushi.

Dim Sum Platter 4.2/5

The Dim Sum Platter impresses with a trio of expertly crafted items: a Steamed Scallop Dumpling, a Poached Prawn Dumpling in Black Vinegar, and a Pan-fried Roasted Duck Bun. Each bite showcases different cooking techniques — steaming, poaching, and pan-frying—highlighting the restaurant's finesse and skill.

Double Boiled Chicken Soup 4.5/5

Next is a comforting Double-boiled Chicken Soup featuring premium ingredients such as fish maw, Matsutake mushrooms, dried scallops, and soaked Nostoc algae. This nourishing soup epitomises the hallmark of Cantonese cooking: balance and depth.

Steamed Dong Xing Grouper Fillet 4.5/5

A signature from Chef Cheung, the Steamed Dong Xing Grouper Fillet is delicately paired with luffa gourd and black fungus. The perfectly steamed fish is tender and sweet, with a light broth that enhances the grouper's natural flavours.

Steamed Vermicelli, King Scallop Caviar, Crab Roe and Egg White 4.8/5

The highlight of the night is the Steamed Vermicelli with King Scallop, Caviar, Crab Roe, and Egg White. This silky, slurp-worthy dish is served in a rich, savoury broth that draws comparisons to Shanghai Crab Roe Noodles. Every element, from the smooth vermicelli to the decadent broth, creates a harmonious and addictive dish that leaves a lasting impression.

Chilled Superior Bird's Nest, Pear, Osmanthus 4.5/5

The meal concludes with the Chilled Superior Bird's Nest, served with osmanthus-infused poached pear. This light, refreshing dessert provides the perfect sweet ending to a luxurious Cantonese feast.

Osmanthus Jelly 4/5

Finally, petite fours are served in the form of Osmanthus Jelly and Osmanthus Sachima — delicate bite-sized treats that add a lovely, nostalgic touch to the dining experience.

Osmanthus Sachima 4/5

Diners celebrating the first 15 days of the Lunar New Year at Summer Pavilion will receive exclusive Ritz-Carlton red packets and a pair of mandarin oranges per reservation. Vegetarian Yu Sheng and Pen Cai are available for takeaway for those looking to host celebrations at home.

For reservations, please call +65 6434 5286 or email rc.sinrz.summerpavilion@ritzcarlton.com.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Summer Pavilion
Ritz-Carlton Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Avenue
Singapore 039799
Tel: +65 64345286
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Promenade (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

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

Nong Geng Ji (农耕记 ) @ Orchard Gateway - Popular Hunanese Restaurant Opens New Outlet inthe Heart of Orchard Road

Hunanese restaurant Nong Geng Ji (农耕记) has quickly gained popularity since opening its flagship outlet at Collyer Quay late last year.

Its fifth new location in the basement of Orchard Gateway provides a spacious and welcoming setting, ideal for group gatherings. The restaurant also features a membership programme offering special discounted prices for nearly all dishes (indicated by ‘MP’ on the menu), excluding steamed rice and beverages.

Pan-seared Green Chilies with Century Egg 4.2/5

We began with the Pan-seared Green Chilies with Century Egg (MP $10.80, U.P $13.80), a unique chilled appetiser served in a mortar. Diners can opt to pound it themselves or have the staff assist. The dish was a delight with its creamy century eggs paired with smoky green chillies that carried just the right amount of heat.

Stir-fried Pork with Abalone and Chilli 4/5

Next was the Stir-fried Pork with Abalone and Chilli (MP $25.80, U.P $28.80), a creative combination of baby abalones, sliced pork, Hunan green peppers, and crunchy white fungus. While the dish had a fun variety of textures, we wished the green pepper flavours were more prominent.

Stir-fried Cauliflower 4.2/5

The simple looking Stir-fried Cauliflower (MP $13.80, U.P $16.80) was executed well. It was garlicky and seasoned just right.

Big Shrimp with Vermicelli and Garlic 4.2/5

Served on a portable gas stove, the Big Shrimp with Vermicelli and Garlic (MP $19.80, U.P $22.80) was precisely timed until it was ready to be eaten. The vermicelli thoroughly soaked up the garlicky and savoury sauce.

Sauerkraut Fish with Soup 3.8/5

The Sauerkraut Fish with Soup (MP $25.80, U.P $28.80) fell short for us. The broth leaned on the saltier side, and though the fish slices were fresh, the number of bones made it less enjoyable.

Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth 4.2/5

Our second soup was the Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth (MP $21.80, U.P $25.80). This was so homely and comforting that we wiped the bowl clean quickly. It also helped to cut the spice from the rest of the dishes.

Dry Pot Pork Intestine with Sauerkraut 4/5

Lastly, we tried the Dry Pot Pork Intestine with Sauerkraut (MP $21.80, U.P $24.80). Those who appreciate fattier cuts of pork intestine would enjoy this that has a blend of spicy and tangy notes from the sauerkraut.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nong Geng Ji (农耕记)
Orchardgateway
#B1-13
277 Orchard Road
Singapore 238858
Tel: +65 6908 0153
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS, Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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