LUCE @ InterContinental Singapore - New Thematic Buffet with Vietnamese, Thai and Chinese Cuisine on Rotation with Authentic Italian Spread

Since mid-February, LUCE's beloved buffet has introduced an exciting new twist: rotating Southeast Asian selections alongside its signature authentic Italian spread.

Diners can indulge in Vietnamese, Thai, or Chinese cuisine on different days of the week. Enjoy 50% off every second diner on weekdays and 20% off on weekends throughout March to sweeten the deal. Pricing per adult varies by day and time:

Lunch
Monday to Friday: $59 ++
Saturday: $69++

Dinner
Monday to Thursday: $78++
Friday: $92++
Sunday: $88++

Thematic Buffet 4/5

On Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays, diners are transported to Vietnam. Wednesdays and Saturdays feature bold Thai flavours, while Tuesdays and Fridays spotlight Chinese cuisine.

Vietnamese

We visited on a Thursday and were treated to a Vietnamese spread, including Steamed Lemongrass Fish and Clams with Sweet Basil, Vietnamese Beef Stew with Root Vegetables, and Netted Prawn Spring Rolls.

Pasta Truffle Alfredo in Parmesan Wheel

Moving on to LUCE's Italian staples, our favourite was the decadent and al dente Pasta Truffle Alfredo, freshly made in a parmesan wheel. It was so good we went back for seconds.

Carving Station

At the Carving Station, highlights included the Coatata di Manzo (Angus roasted picanha with fingerling potato), Pancia di Maiale ai 3 Pepi (slow-roasted pork belly with three types of pepper), and La Salsiccia (juicy seared pork sausage).

Italian Specialties

The hearty Italian Specialties had us spoiled for choice with Angus Beef Oxtail Stew, Oven-Roasted Salmon Fillet, Spezzato di Agnello, and more. More pasta options were available, too, including Pasta al Pesto and Truffle Cream Pasta.

Pizzas

My dining partner and I both adored the freshly made Pizzas, which carried a chewy base and crisp crust.

During our visit, four flavours were available: La Panchetta e Patate (smoked scamorza, pancetta ham), Salsiccia e Gorgonzola (Italian pork sausage, gorgonzola cheese), Five Formaggi (acacia honey, a combination of cheese), and La Tartufata (black truffle paste, wild mushrooms, smoked scamorza). We highly recommend tucking into these while they are still hot.

Seafood on Ice

Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss the Seafood on Ice station, featuring Japanese oysters, tiger prawns, scallops, mussels, sea whelks, clams, and baby lobsters, all frequently replenished throughout the night.

Cheese Room

Make sure to visit the Cheese Room right next to the seafood. The room may seem small, but it offers a diverse selection of Salad Bars, Bread Baskets, Artisanal Cheeses, and Chilled Antipasti. A couple of interesting options included a Seared Tuna niçoise salad, Artisanal Farmer Pork Terrine, and Beef Carpaccio.

Indian Kitchen

We were also pleasantly surprised by a small section of Indian Kitchen, which featured crunchy Papadum, Butter Chicken, Aloo Gobi, Madras Fish Curry, and Biryani Rice.

Dessert

The Dessert section had quite a range, featuring Assorted Nyonya Kueh, Lemon Tarts, Rainbow Cakes and more. We sampled a few, which were average, with a mix of hits and misses.

Fresh Fruit Selection

Last but not least, end on a refreshing note with the Fresh Fruit Selection.

Do make a reservation before heading down, via LUCE's hotline at 6825 1008.

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.


LUCE
InterContinental Singapore
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 6825 1008
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch: 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm 
Dinner: 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm 

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

Edge @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Tastes of Vietnam Buffet

Embark on a sensory journey through the heart of Vietnam at Edge, Pan Pacific Singapore, as the award-winning buffet restaurant brings the "Tastes of Vietnam" to life. From 7 to 30 March 2025, diners can indulge in an exclusive dinner experience curated by Pan Pacific Hanoi's Executive Chef Zack Truong and Junior Sous-chef Hoa Trung Kien in collaboration with Edge's own Executive Chef Andy Oh. This culinary showcase celebrates Vietnam's rich and diverse flavours, offering a delightful spread of traditional dishes alongside Edge's signature global offerings.

With nearly two decades of culinary mastery, Chef Zack brings his expertise from Dubai to the Maldives, blending time-honoured Vietnamese recipes with contemporary finesse. During the launch week, guests can witness the chefs in action as authentic flavours and exceptional craftsmanship come together for an unforgettable dining experience.

Wok Fried Glass Noodle with Eel, Grilled Pork Belly with Fermented Rice and Galangal

The Wok-Fried Glass Noodles with Eel balance the chewiness of glass noodles with the crispiness of the fried eel, creating a delightful textural contrast. Meanwhile, the Grilled Pork Belly with Fermented Rice offers a rich umami depth alongside aromatic notes of galangal. It would be a perfect pairing with a bowl of white rice.

Stir-Fried Kohlrabi with Dried Shrimp

Crisp, refreshing Kohlrabi is stir-fried with savoury dried shrimp, creating a balanced blend of crunch and umami. The contrast of textures makes this a simple yet satisfying side.

Jellyfish Salad with Chili and Lime

Bright and invigorating, this salad pairs the delicate brininess of Jellyfish with a zesty chilli-lime dressing. Each bite is a refreshing medley of crisp textures and citrusy heat.

Stewed Beef Shank with Vinegar & Fish Sauce

A slow-cooked masterpiece, the Beef Shank is tender and deeply infused with the tangy sharpness of vinegar and the savoury complexity of fish sauce. It is comforting and bold in flavour.

Wok Fried River Prawn with Tamarin Sauce

Succulent River Prawns are stir-fried in a luscious tamarind sauce that expertly balances sweet, sour, and savoury elements. The rich glaze enhances the prawns' natural sweetness.

Steamed Whole Mud Crab with Chinese Herbal in Lotus Leaf

A show-stopping highlight, this dish features a Whole Steamed Mud Crab served alongside a Chinese herbal sauce on the side. The crabs are incredibly fresh and generously filled with roe. It is a must-try, even on its own without the sauce.

Southern Beef Wrapped in Betel Leaves

Ground Beef seasoned with fragrant spices is encased in Betel Leaves and grilled to smoky perfection. This savoury delicacy is aromatic and tender, offering a taste of Southern Vietnamese cuisine.

Fried Prawn Meat with Sugar Cane

This beloved delicacy features flavourful Prawn Paste wrapped around juicy sugar cane. The juxtaposition of savoury seafood and subtly sweet sugar cane creates a unique and delightful bite.

Mini Savoury Pancakes with Prawn Coconut Cream

These crispy-edged, bite-sized Pancakes are topped with juicy prawns and a hint of rich coconut cream. They are a popular Southern Vietnamese street snack that we can't stop at one.

Northern Sour Fish Soup with Local Herbs

A comforting bowl of tangy Fish Soup, where the delicate taste of fresh fish meets a herbaceous broth, is a Northern speciality that is a soothing and flavourful representation of home-style Vietnamese cooking.

Fresh Spring Roll with Prawn

Freshly assembled at the live station, these light and refreshing Spring Rolls feature plump prawns, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. They are a classic Vietnamese must-have.

Noodle Live Station – Vietnamese Noodle Broth “Pho” with Chicken

Experience the soul-soothing warmth of authentic Vietnamese Pho. This live station offers a choice of tender chicken or beef in a rich, aromatic broth with an array of fresh garnishes, including basil, chilli, and bean sprouts for a personalised touch.

Grilled Banana Wrapped in Sticky Rice with Coconut Sauce

For a sweet conclusion, savour this Caramelised Banana encased in sticky rice drizzled with creamy coconut sauce. Additional toppings provide extra texture and indulgence.

Plain Yogurt with Black Sticky Rice

This simple, satisfying dessert pairs house-made Yoghurt with sweet, nutty Black Sticky Rice. The combination of creamy and chewy textures is a delightful finish.

Taro Sweet Soup

A personal favourite, this warm and velvety soup features earthy Taro bathed in a sweet coconut-infused broth. The comforting richness makes it a standout dessert, especially for taro lovers.

"Tastes of Vietnam" at Edge runs from 7 until 30 March 2025, exclusively for dinner from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
• Sundays to Thursdays: $98 per adult and $49 per child (6-12 years old), inclusive of free-flow soft drinks.
• Fridays and Saturdays: $118 per adult and $59 per child (6-12 years old), inclusive of free-flow soft drinks.

Immerse yourself in this limited-time celebration of Vietnamese cuisine and savour the diverse flavours crafted by culinary masters. For reservations, call 6826 8240 or email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com.

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


Edge
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 6826 8240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade MRT (DT, CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Viet Nam Pho @ Clementi West Street 2 - New Hole in the Wall Eatery Servicing Authentic Vietnameses Food at Affordable Price

A new eatery has quietly opened in my neighbourhood, bringing the flavours of Vietnam to the West Coast area. Viet Nam Pho has taken over the space that previously housed a Sarawak Kolo Mee stall, nestled opposite the West Coast Community Club and facing the basketball court. As a fan of Vietnamese cuisine, I was eager to give this small, unassuming spot a try, and I’m glad I did.

Beef Noodle Soup 4.2/5

We kicked off our meal with the Beef Noodle Soup ($7), and the generous portion size immediately struck me for such an affordable price. The bowl came brimming with a variety of beef cuts, which, while not the highest quality, were more than ample in quantity. The rice noodles were silky smooth, and the broth had a well-balanced, comforting, and satisfying sweetness. If you prefer a little heat, I'd recommend adding a spoonful of chopped chillies to give the soup an extra kick.

Salad 4.2/5

The Salad ($5.50) was a pleasant surprise. I wasn't sure what to expect, but it turned out to be a refreshing and satisfying dish. The fresh, crunchy greens were tossed in a delightful sweet and savoury sauce, with the added crunch of fragrant peanuts. The salad was also studded with tender prawns and slices of pork, making it a substantial and delicious starter.

Vietnamese Chee Cheong Fun 3.5/5

One of the more interesting items on the menu was the Vietnamese Chee Cheong Fun ($4.50), something I had never tried before. The dish arrived with plain Chee Cheong Fun topped with crispy fried shallots and accompanied by two types of Vietnamese ham. To enjoy it, you dip the rice rolls into a fish sauce-based dipping sauce that is both sweet and savoury, reminiscent of the sauce served with Vietnamese spring rolls. The flavours were simple yet satisfying, making it a nice change of pace from the more familiar dishes.

Banh Mi 3.8/5

Next up was the Banh Mi ($5.50), a staple of Vietnamese street food. The staff gave the baguette a quick toast before stuffing it with various ingredients. The result was a crispy, delightful sandwich that burst with flavours in every bite. However, my only gripe was that the filling was a bit lacking. While I understand the need to keep costs down, I think the sandwich could benefit from a bit more stuffing—perhaps extra shredded carrot and radish to make it more visually appealing and satisfying. Additionally, offering more variety in the fillings, such as meatballs, grilled chicken, or beef, could give customers more choices.

Rice Vermicelli with Chicken and Rolls 3.5/5

Our final dish was the Rice Vermicelli with Chicken and Rolls ($6). This dry noodle dish is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and to fully enjoy it, you need to pour the accompanying sweet and savoury sauce over the noodles and give it a good toss. The dish came with grilled chicken pieces and crispy fried spring rolls. While it was tasty, the flavours didn't quite reach the heights of the other dishes we tried, but it was still a decent, comforting option.

Viet Nam Pho is a welcome addition to the West Coast neighbourhood, offering authentic Vietnamese dishes at wallet-friendly prices. While there are a few areas where the eatery could improve, particularly in terms of variety and customer service, the flavours are on point, and the value for money is hard to beat. Whether you're a fan of Vietnamese cuisine or simply looking to try something new, Viet Nam Pho is worth a visit. I'm looking forward to returning and trying more of their offerings in the future.


Viet Nam Pho
Blk 721 Clementi West Street 2
#01-120
Singapore 120721
Tel: +65 92247998
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 8pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17179). Take bus number 201. Alight 2 stops later. Cross the road. Turn left and cut through the food centre to block 721. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]