Shabu Days @ Bukit Panjang - Affordable Solo Shabu-Shabu Sets from S$14.90

Tucked within the bustling Kopitiam Food Hall at Hillion Mall, Shabu Days presents a personal shabu-shabu concept that is both comforting and convenient, ideal for a quick midday recharge or a fuss-free dinner. The concept of solo hotpot dining is executed with thoughtful precision here, offering well-balanced sets that feel both nourishing and accessible for everyday indulgence.

Starting from an approachable S$14.90, each set at Shabu Days is designed to deliver a complete and satisfying meal. Diners can choose from nine cut-to-order mains, spanning from classic options such as Chicken Thigh ($14.90), Pork Collar ($16.90) and Beef Brisket ($19.90) to more premium selections like Australian Wagyu ($29.90), Japanese A5 Wagyu ($39.90), and the Seafood Treasure Platter ($29.90). The variety ensures there is something for every palate and occasion.

Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll

Pork Collar

During our visit, we opted for the Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll and Pork Collar. Sliced upon order, the meats showcased beautiful colour and marbling, immediately hinting at their quality. The Japanese A5 Wagyu, in particular, was richly marbled, delivering a buttery tenderness and depth of flavour that melted effortlessly with each swish in the broth. The Pork Collar, on the other hand, offered a satisfying balance of lean meat and delicate fat, remaining juicy and flavourful after cooking.

Bonito Kombu Broth 4.2/5

Tangy Tomato Broth 4.2/5

Complementing the meats is a selection of nourishing broths, each bringing its own distinct character to the experience. The Bonito Kombu broth stood out with its clean, umami-rich profile, layered with the subtle sweetness of kombu and the smokiness of bonito. The Herbal Angelica broth offered a gentle, comforting herbal note, while the Tangy Tomato provided a light, refreshing acidity that brightened the meal. For those seeking bolder flavours, the Sukiyaki broth paired with a pasteurised egg delivers a sweet-savoury richness. In contrast, the Spicy Umami broth caters to those who prefer a more robust and punchy base.

Each set is accompanied by a thoughtfully assembled Yasai Garden Bowl, featuring a colourful medley of seasonal vegetables, including green and red coral lettuce, enoki and shimeji mushrooms, and carrot and pumpkin. This not only adds vibrancy to the meal but also balances the richness of the meats with freshness and texture. Diners can further customise their set with a choice of carbohydrates, Calrose white rice, ramen or udon alongside the "Three Treasures" of kinchaku, mini chikuwa and gyoza, rounding out the meal with additional variety.

A highlight of the Shabu Days experience is the signature DIY Egg Risotto (add $3.50). Using the remaining broth, diners can transform it into a comforting, risotto-style dish by adding rice, a pasteurised egg, and condiments. This interactive finale is both satisfying and resourceful, allowing the broth's flavours to culminate in a warm, hearty finish.

Overall, Shabu Days delivers a well-executed solo hotpot experience that strikes a fine balance between quality, value and convenience. With its curated sets, quality ingredients and comforting flavours, it is a concept that invites repeat visits, whether for a quick solo meal or a casual, satisfying indulgence.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shabu Days
Kopitiam Food Hall
Hillion Mall
17 Petir Road
#02-15-20
Singapore 678278
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Nearest MRT: Bukit Panjang (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bukit Panjang MRT station. Take Exit A2. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

VUE @ OUE Bayfront - New Weekend Lunch Set Menu with Signature Dessert Trolley

Perched atop OUE Bayfront, VUE continues to impress with its refined modern European cuisine and stunning skyline views. Elevating the weekend dining scene, the restaurant has launched a new Weekend Lunch Set Menu, thoughtfully curated with a choice of four ($108++) or five courses ($128++). Each dish reflects a careful balance of artistry and finesse, culminating in a delightful finale of free-flow desserts from its signature trolley.

As with every visit, the meal began on a high note with the restaurant's complimentary milk buns. Soft, pillowy and lightly sweet, they were perfect when paired with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It's one of those addictive starters that inevitably leads to a second helping, and understandably so.

42-Month Aged Jamón Iberico 4/5

We started our lunch with the cold appetisers, in which the 42-Month Aged Jamón Iberico delivered a deeply savoury, complex flavour profile. The long curing process lends the ham its signature intensity and nutty undertones, complemented beautifully by sweet Charentais melon. Paired with the La Coca toast, a thin, crisp Spanish flatbread, provided a delightful textural contrast, allowing the richness of the ham to shine.

Heirloom Tomatoes 4/5

The Heirloom Tomatoes offered a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative. Naturally sweet and juicy heirloom tomatoes were paired with smoked burrata, creating a luscious creamy contrast. The inclusion of tonburi, often referred to as "land caviar," added a subtle popping texture, while black olives introduced a gentle briny depth, tying the dish together harmoniously.

Wild Caught Scallop 4.2/5

Moving on to the hot appetisers, the Wild Caught Scallop stood out for its precision in execution. The wild caught scallop was pan-seared to a perfect golden crust while retaining a tender, succulent interior. Its natural sweetness was elevated by the luxurious topping of Osetra caviar, while the white chocolate miso emulsion added an unexpected yet balanced layer of sweetness and umami. The sautéed spring peas lent freshness and a slight crunch, rounding off the dish elegantly.

Grilled Baby Gem Lettuce 4/5

In contrast, the Grilled Baby Gem Lettuce showcased the restaurant's mastery of binchōtan grilling. The lightly charred outer leaves carried a gentle smokiness, while the inner core remained crisp and refreshing. The dish was brightened with an orange tahini dressing, complemented by feta cheese, walnuts and a Parmesan crisp. It delivered a pleasing interplay of smoky, creamy and crunchy textures.

Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto 4.8/5

For the risotto course, both options impressed with their depth of flavour and execution. The Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto was a comforting, earthy masterpiece. Made with a medley of premium mushrooms, including porcini and chestnut, the dish exuded deep umami richness. Each grain of rice retained a slight bite, coated in a creamy, velvety sauce enriched with aged Parmigiano Reggiano. The addition of truffle further enhanced its aromatic, woodsy profile.

Signature Uni Risotto 4.8/5

Equally indulgent was the Signature Uni Risotto (+$12). This luxurious creation highlighted the briny sweetness of Hokkaido sea urchin, folded into a creamy emulsion that beautifully coated the Japanese multi-grain rice. The grains offered a subtle textural contrast, making each mouthful more dynamic. The uni foam intensified the oceanic flavours, resulting in a deeply satisfying and decadent dish.

Spanish Octopus 4.5/5

From the grill, the Spanish Octopus demonstrated VUE's expertise with binchōtan charcoal. The octopus was cooked to a perfect tenderness, with a slight char that imparted a smoky depth without overpowering its natural sweetness. Accompanied by grilled baby gem lettuce, semi-dried tomatoes, and a pistachio chimichurri, the dish was well balanced, with the nutty, herbaceous sauce elevating the overall profile.

Stoneaxe Wagyu Rump Cap MBS 8-9 4.5/5

For the mains, the Stone Axe Wagyu Rump Cap MBS 8-9 (+$15) was a highlight for meat lovers. Also known as picanha, the cut is prized for its rich flavour and luscious fat cap, which renders beautifully over the grill. Simply seasoned to let the beef's quality shine, the meat was juicy, tender and deeply flavourful. Served with truffle mashed potatoes and heirloom cauliflower, the accompaniments complemented without overshadowing the star ingredient.

Desserts 4.2/5

Ending the meal on a sweet note, the Dessert Trolley remains a signature draw of the weekend lunch experience. Presented tableside, it offers an enticing selection of bite-sized and plated desserts that change with the seasons. From delicate pastries to indulgent sweets, the free-flow format allows diners to sample a variety of creations, making for a playful and satisfying finale.

Overall, VUE's Weekend Lunch Set Menu delivers a well-paced and thoughtfully executed dining experience. With its combination of quality ingredients, refined techniques and indulgent touches like the dessert trolley, it is an excellent choice for a leisurely weekend indulgence in the heart of the city.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 1am
Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 2am
Sat: 1130am - 430pm, 530pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Jiang-Nan Chun @ Four Seasons Hotel Singapore – Discover the “Passages of Spring” Seasonal Menu

At Jiang-Nan Chun, the arrival of spring is marked by a thoughtfully curated seasonal menu, available from 15 March to 15 May 2026. Helmed by award-winning Executive Chinese Chef Alan Chan, the eight-week showcase celebrates the season’s first harvests — tender greens, young shoots, and delicate blossoms — translated into refined Cantonese plates. We experienced the six-course set menu ($238++ per person), a well-paced journey highlighting both technique and seasonality.

Amuse Bouche 4/5

The meal began on a refreshing note with a simple yet effective amuse bouche of Pickled Tomato. Light, juicy and naturally sweet, the tomatoes provided a bright, palate-awakening start, gently priming the appetite for the courses ahead.

Jiang-Nan Platter 4.2/5

The opening platter presented a trio of delicacies: Marinated Fresh South African Abalone, Honey-Glazed Iberico Pork, and Spiced Fried Scallop. The standout was undoubtedly the marinated abalone, a departure from the usual braised rendition. Here, the abalone retained a delicate bite while absorbing a nuanced marinade that elevated its natural brininess with a gentle layering of flavours. The honey-glazed Iberico pork (char siew) impressed with its succulent texture, offering a pleasing balance of lean meat and fat, its caramelised glaze lending a subtle smokiness and sweetness. Completing the trio, the spiced fried scallop delivered textural contrast. It was crisp on the outside while remaining plump and tender within.

Double-Boiled Chicken Soup 5/5

A highlight of the evening, the Double-Boiled Chicken Soup with Sea Whelk, Conpoy and Morel Mushroom was served in a whole coconut, marrying presentation with depth of flavour. Slow-simmered over hours, the soup achieved remarkable clarity while extracting the essence of each ingredient. The natural sweetness of the coconut lent a gentle, refreshing lift, while the conpoy (dried scallops) and sea whelk contributed layers of umami richness. Spring morel mushrooms added an earthy complexity, rounding out the profile. Comforting yet invigorating, the soup struck a beautiful balance between nourishment and refinement, a dish deeply rooted in Cantonese culinary tradition.

Wok-Fried A5 Wagyu Beef 4.5/5

The Wok-Fried A5 Wagyu Beef with Spring Bamboo Shoots in Black Pepper Sauce showcased a masterful interplay of richness and freshness. The A5 Wagyu, with its intense marbling, was indulgently tender and flavourful, while the seasonal bamboo shoots introduced a crisp, clean contrast. Their subtle sweetness and fibrous crunch helped cut through the richness of the beef, preventing the dish from becoming overwhelming. The black pepper sauce added aromatic heat and depth, tying the elements together into a harmonious, well-balanced plate that felt both luxurious and surprisingly light.

Braised White Asparagus in Superior Broth 4/5

Celebrating another prized spring ingredient, the Braised White Asparagus was executed with finesse. Naturally sweet and tender with a gentle crunch, the asparagus absorbed the superior broth beautifully, enhancing its delicate flavour without overpowering it. The addition of bacon introduced a savoury, smoky undertone that provided contrast and depth, elevating what could have been a simple vegetable dish into something more layered and satisfying.

Braised Inaniwa Noodles with Australian Lobster and Mushrooms in Shrimp Sauce 4.2/5

The noodle course delivered both elegance and comfort. Silky Inaniwa noodles were paired with tender Australian lobster and fresh mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich shrimp sauce. The lobster’s natural sweetness shone through, complemented by the umami-laden sauce, while the mushrooms added an earthy dimension. The noodles, known for their smooth texture, carried the sauce effortlessly, resulting in a dish that was refined yet approachable, a gentle expression of spring’s lighter, more nuanced flavours.

Orange Blossom Mousse with Black Sesame Cremeux and White Chocolate 4.5/5

Dessert arrived in a visually charming form, shaped like an orange. Beneath its delicate exterior, the Orange Blossom Mousse was light and aromatic, offering floral citrus notes without veering into excessive sweetness. The black sesame crémeux introduced a nutty depth, while the white chocolate added a creamy richness, tying the elements together. The interplay of flavours was well-judged, resulting in a balanced and refreshing conclusion to the meal.

Jiang-Nan Chun’s seasonal menu is a graceful ode to spring, where premium ingredients and time-honoured techniques come together in a polished, contemporary expression of Cantonese cuisine. Available for both lunch and dinner, the menu is offered as a six-course set ($238++ per person) or à la carte (from $28++), with an optional wine pairing ($85++) to further enhance the experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jiang Nan Chun (江南春)
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
Second Floor
190 Orchard Boulevard
Singapore 248646
Tel: +65 68317653
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 2pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 11. Walk straight down Orchard Boulevard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Yakiniku LIKE @ The Cathay - Celebrates 6 Years of Tasty, Quick, and Value Dining With Attractive Promotions

Yakiniku LIKE, Singapore's first Japanese-origin fast-casual yakiniku brand, is celebrating its sixth anniversary with a lineup of attractive promotions from 23 March to 17 May 2026. We dropped by the outlet at The Cathay to check out the promotions.

Kagoshima Wagyu Cuts

From now till 19 April 2026, the brand is running a Kagoshima Campaign showcasing premium Kagoshima Wagyu cuts. One of them is the Triangle Rib, a rare cut that yields only about 1% per head of cattle. It is also highly prized for its beautiful balance of tender, lean meat and sweet, buttery fat. Other featured Kagoshima Wagyu cuts include Prime Karubi and Nakaochi.

Kagoshima A5 Wagyu & Karubi Duo Set 4/5

We dropped by the latest outlet at The Cathay. Among the available A5 Kagoshima Wagyu selections, we had the Kagoshima A5 Wagyu & Karubi Duo Set ($48.90). Designed for two diners, the set comes complete with Cold Tofu, Kimchi, Salad, Seaweed Soup, and Rice, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Harami and Rosu

To fully enjoy the anniversary promotions, be sure to add on some of the special 6th Anniversary Add-Ons, available till 17 May 2026. These include $6 Prime Karubi (50g), $6 Harami (50g), and $6 Rosu (100g). Both the Harami and Rosu offer a meatier bite, providing a nice contrast to the Kagoshima Wagyu cuts, which are richer and more indulgent due to their fats' marbling.

What's more, from 6 to 17 April 2026 on weekdays, loyal Yakiniku LIKE members can enjoy 50% off a second set meal on selected offerings.

Celebrating six years of bringing authentic Japanese yakiniku to Singapore, Yakiniku LIKE's anniversary promotions are a fitting reflection of the brand's continued promise of Tasty, Quick, Value.

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.


Yakiniku Like
The Cathay
2 Handy Road
#01-02
Singapore 229233
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchard Road and Handy Road traffic junction. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

SABOR Cocina Y Tapas @ CHIJMES - A New Lively & Stylish Spanish Dining with Room for Refinement

Located within the charming grounds of CHIJMES, SABòR Cocina Y Tapas is a bold new addition to the dining scene, officially opening on 1 April 2026. Taking over the former space of Privé, this 100-seater Spanish concept is helmed by the team behind Duomo Ristorante. The restaurant offers a lively, communal dining experience, seamlessly transitioning from a laid-back daytime setting to a vibrant evening destination. Diners can choose between the sleek glass-enclosed dining hall or the picturesque alfresco courtyard, which comes alive at night with twinkling lights set against the historic chapel backdrop.

Bikini Sobrasada, Honey & Cheese 3.8/5

We started with the Bikini Sobrasada, Honey & Cheese ($18), a modern take on the classic Spanish pressed sandwich. Stuffed with sobrasada, a soft, paprika-spiced cured sausage. The sandwich delivered a rich, smoky depth, elevated by melted cheese. A drizzle of honey adds a distinct sweet note, giving it a sweet-savoury profile that leans away from the traditional version. While interesting, preferences may vary depending on whether one favours the classic savoury rendition.

Bread & Tomatoes 3/5

The Bread & Tomatoes ($12) pays homage to a Spanish staple. Featuring crisped crystal bread topped with ripe tomatoes, olive oil and salt, it celebrates simplicity and ingredient quality. However, the seasoning was a tad heavy-handed, slightly overshadowing the natural flavours.

Spicy Crab Croquette 3/5

Jamón Serrano Croquette 3/5

Moving on to the croquettes, both the Spicy Crab Croquette ($4/pc) and Jamón Serrano Croquette ($4/pc) boasted a crisp exterior with a molten, creamy interior. Unfortunately, the fillings lacked distinction, with neither the crab nor the jamón coming through clearly, leaving us underwhelmed.

Chicken Wings' Dirty Pepe' 3/5

The Chicken Wings' Dirty Pepe' ($18) takes inspiration from Madrid's iconic Casa Pepe. Deep-fried to a satisfying crisp, the wings are coated in a smoky, sweet-savoury glaze that is more balanced and approachable than the original's punchy saltiness. Interestingly, the flavour profile and glaze evoked Korean-style fried chicken, with its addictive sweet-savoury coating.

Grilled Wagyu Beef Paella 3.8/5

For a hearty centrepiece, the Grilled Wagyu Beef Paella ($48) offers a meat-forward take on the traditional dish. While flavourful, the rice leaned closer to a risotto-like consistency, lacking the coveted socarrat — the crispy caramelised crust that defines a well-executed paella.

Grilled Barramundi, Picon Sauce 4/5

From the grill, the Grilled Barramundi with Picon Sauce ($34) was well executed, with crisp skin and moist, flaky flesh. The accompanying mojo picón sauce added a punchy, smoky spice that complemented the fish beautifully.

Crispy Pork Belly, Green Apple 3/5

The Crispy Pork Belly, Green Apple ($36) featured tender meat but fell short on the crackling, with the skin turning out slightly rubbery rather than crisp. The green apple slaw, however, provided a refreshing acidity that helped balance the richness.

Potatoes 'Bravisimas' 4.5/5

One of the highlights of the meal was the Potatoes 'Bravisimas' ($16). This elevated take on patatas bravas features golden, crispy potatoes, fluffy inside, coated in a deeply addictive seasoning. It's the kind of dish that keeps you reaching for more.

Crema Catalana with Cookies 3/5

Churros with Chocolate 3.5/5

Ending on a sweet note, the Crema Catalana with Cookies ($14) impressed with its silky, citrus-infused custard and delicate caramelised crust. The addition of cookie crumbs beneath adds a delightful textural contrast. Meanwhile, the Churros with Chocolate ($12) delivered exactly what you’d expect — crispy on the outside, light within, and paired with a rich, indulgent chocolate dip.

Overall, SABòR Cocina Y Tapas brings an energetic Spanish dining concept to CHIJMES, with a strong emphasis on ambience and communal plates. While certain dishes could be more refined in execution, there are standout items that showcase its potential as a lively spot for gatherings over tapas and drinks.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


SABOR Cocina Y Tapas
Chijmes
30 Victoria Street
#01-33
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 9611 9127
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Nerest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 430pm - 12midnight
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 2pm, 430pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut across Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road, cross the road to Chijmes. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk southwards towards Victoria Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and Victoria Road, cross the junction to Chijmes. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]