Ya Ge (雅阁) @ Orchid Hotel - A Refined Weekend Dim Sum Brunch with 47 Items to Choose From

Ya Ge (雅阁) at Orchid Hotel Singapore has launched a refined new Weekend Dim Sum Brunch, offering an array of exquisite dim sum dishes, flavourful soups, hearty mains, and decadent desserts. Diners can select up to 15 dishes from the extensive menu, making it a perfect choice for those looking to indulge in a lavish and leisurely meal.

Abalone Siew Mai 4.2/5

We started our brunch with a selection of new dim sum creations that truly elevated the dining experience. The Abalone Siew Mai is a luxurious take on the classic pork siew mai, topped with a whole abalone that adds a touch of elegance and richness to the dish.

Steamed Mala Flavoured Pork Siew Mai topped with Baby Octopus 4/5

Another standout was the Steamed Mala Flavoured Pork Siew Mai topped with Baby Octopus. This dish combines the familiar flavours of siew mai with the bold, spicy kick of mala, topped with tender baby octopus. It's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dim sum.

Deep-fried Red Garoupa Fillet and Mango Roll 4/5

The Deep-fried Red Garoupa Fillet and Mango Roll was a delightful surprise, featuring a crispy exterior that encased tender garoupa fillet and sweet mango, complemented by a tangy mango sauce.

Pan-fried Tom Yum Mee Suan Kueh with Fresh Prawn 2.8/5

One of the most inventive dishes we tried was the Pan-fried Tom Yum Mee Sua Kueh with Fresh Prawn. The dish features a tom yum-flavoured prawn atop a crisp mee sua toast. However, it lacked the softer, more comforting texture of traditional fried mee sua kueh. It might not be everyone's cup of tea, especially if you're a fan of the Swee Choon's version.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Matsuke Mushroom, Dendrobium Steam and Conpoy 4/5

Braised Lobster Broth with Fresh Crab Meat and Crab Roe 4.2/5

For the soup options, we sampled the Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Matsuke Mushroom, Dendrobium Stem and Conpoy, as well as the Braised Lobster Broth with Fresh Crab Meat and Crab Roe. Both soups were rich and deeply flavorful, with the lobster broth standing out for its luxurious and briny taste.

Traditional Xiao Long Bao 3.5/5

Barbeque Pork Rice Roll 3.5/5

Pan-fried Chinese Sausage Carrot Cake 2.8/5

We also indulged in some of Ya Ge's more classic dim sum offerings, including the Traditional Xiao Long Bao, Barbeque Pork Rice Roll, and Pan-fried Chinese Sausage Carrot Cake. These classic dishes were executed to perfection, each bite bursting with familiar and comforting flavours.

Salted Egg Yolk Custard Lava Bun 4.5/5

Crispy Mini Pumpkin Pastry with Minced Chicken, Mushroom and Thyme 4.5/5

Crispy Ugly Duckling with Chicken, Yam and Mushroom 4.2/5

A few dishes stood out as personal favourites among the dim sum selections. The Salted Egg Yolk Custard Lava Bun is a must-try, with its soft, fluffy dough infused with pandan flavour and filled with rich, oozing salted egg yolk custard. Another delightful bite was the Crispy Mini Pumpkin Pastry with Minced Chicken, Mushroom, and Thyme. The pastry had a chewy texture that became more enjoyable with each bite. Lastly, the Crispy Ugly Duckling with Chicken, Yam, and Mushroom was packed with flavour and texture, making it an irresistible choice.

Peking Duck 4.2/5

Ya Ge's Weekend Dim Sum Brunch also features a live station that rotates weekly, offering dishes such as Peking Duck, Sliced Spotted Garoupa Pao Fan, Xiao Long Bao with Crab Roe Filling, Herbal Crispy Duck Roll, and more. During our visit, we were treated to the Peking Duck, a classic dish that was expertly prepared and a pleasure to eat.

Claypot French 'An Xin' Chicken in Traditional Kam Heong Style 4.5/5

If you think dim sum is the only highlight, think again. The brunch also includes several main courses that are worth trying. The Claypot French 'An Xin' Chicken in Traditional Kam Heong Style was a standout, with tender chicken pieces cooked in a fragrant lemongrass and kam heong sauce that was so delicious, it had me craving for a bowl of rice to go with it.

Braised Dong Po Iberico Pork 4.2/5

Another memorable dish was the Braised Dong Po Iberico Pork, which was cooked to perfection, melting in the mouth with every bite.

Braised Mee Pok with Eggplant and Kurobuta Minced Pork 4.2/5

We opted for the Braised Mee Pok with Eggplant and Kurobuta Minced Pork for our carbo fix. The sauce was rich and savoury, complementing the perfectly cooked noodles that had just the right amount of bite.

Chilled Lemongrass Jully, Chilled Mango Pomelo Sago 4/5

We indulged in desserts like the Chilled Lemongrass Jelly and Chilled Mango Pomelo Sago to wrap up our sumptuous brunch. Both desserts were light, sweet, and refreshing, providing a perfect end to our meal.

Available only on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays
First Seating: 11.30am - 1.30pm (Last Order at 1pm)
Second Seating: 12.30pm - 2.30pm (Last Order at 2pm)
Pricing:
S$68++ per adult (min. 2 persons)
$48++ per child (4-12 years old)

The Weekend Dim Sum Brunch at Ya Ge offers a delightful combination of classic and innovative dishes, all prepared with finesse and attention to detail. Whether you're a dim sum traditionalist or someone who enjoys trying new flavours, this brunch is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you planning your next visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Ya Ge (雅阁)
Orchid Hotel Singapore
1 Tras Link
Singapore 078867
Tel: +65 6818 6831
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight towards Orchid Hotel. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒) @ Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel - “The Return of Sri Lankan Crabs”, Wan Hao’s Limited-Time Offering Till 31 Aug 2023

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant is bringing back its "The Return of Sri Lankan Crabs" promotion, which features twelve crab-centric dishes centred around local and Chinese flavours with modern elements. The menu offers both Dim Sum and A La Carte options, with the Dim Sum offerings exclusively available during lunch hours.

For Dim Sum, you can expect creations such as Pan-Fried Chilli Crab Bun ($3.80 per piece) and Black Pepper Crab Meat Spring Roll ($3.80 per piece), while the A La Carte dishes include Stewed Crab with Shallot & Sha Jiang in Claypot ($15/100g), Braised Luffa Gourd with Crab Meat & Crab Roe ($48) and more.

Hairy Crab Xiao Long Bao 4/5

From the Dim Sum menu, we sampled the Hairy Crab Xiao Long Bao ($4.80 per piece, min. order of 2 pieces). The xiao long bao broth carried a more savoury-sweet flavour profile, deviating from the usual porky richness.

While I found the portion a bit small considering the price, it was quite an indulgent treat with the morsels of crab meat.

Wok-Fried Prawn with Egg White & Fresh Milk in Crab Roe Sauce 4/5

The Wok-Fried Prawn with Egg White & Fresh Milk in Crab Roe Sauce ($48) featured a smooth and custardy egg white topped with crunchy prawns. The crab roe and its sauce added a buttery richness, though the fried piece carrying the ingredients could be done significantly better. It lacked crunch and, unfortunately, gave a tad oily aftertaste, which affected the overall experience.

Braised Iberico Pork Ball with Hairy Crab Superior Stock & Bok Choy 4.2/5

A standout for us from the A La Carte menu was the Braised Iberico Pork Ball with Hairy Crab Superior Stock & Bok Choy ($38 per pax). The golden stock was rich and savoury, complementing the packed yet tender pork ball. The addition of crunchy water chestnut bits added texture, while the crab meat lent a subtle sweetness.

Salted Egg & Chicken Floss Crab 4.5/5

The batter on the Salted Egg & Chicken Floss Crab ($15/100g) was perfectly executed. It was skillfully done thin enough to thoroughly coat the crabs and pick up the salted egg and chicken floss. There was even a generous amount of crunchy batter bits all around.

Although the salted egg flavour was less robust than expected, this decadent combination will appeal to the local palate. The crabs themselves were incredibly fresh with plump meat. I was thoroughly impressed by the amount of crab egg roe found in the shell - it was packed!

Steamed Crab Roe with Wok-Fried Glutinous Rice 4.2/5

We concluded our crab feast with the Steamed Crab Roe with Wok-Fried Glutinous Rice ($16/100g). Personally, I prefer steamed crabs, especially when they are fresh, as it allows its natural sweetness to shine through. The lightly seasoned glutinous rice studded with Chinese sausage was a great accompaniment to the firm crab meat.

If you are a crab enthusiast, Wan Hao’s crab creations are worth a try before their seasonal menu comes to an end.

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.


Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒)
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
320 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Tel: +65 6831 4605
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11.30am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Shanghai Fried Xiao Long Bao (上海生煎小笼包) @ Chinatown Complex Food Centre - Juicy & Crisp Sheng Jian Bao By Ex-Restaurant Dim Sim Chef

Newly opened earlier this year at Chinatown Complex Food Centre is Shanghai Fried Xiao Long Bao (上海生煎小笼包). The stall is opened by Chef Jiang, who has 25 years of experience working as a dim sum chef at Crystal Jade and Paradise Group.

Xiao Long Bao 3.8/5

The stall sells several items, such as noodles, wantons and dumplings. We ordered the chef's recommendation starting with Xiao Long Bao ($4.80/6pc). Compared to others, I find the skin is thicker, and I wished the filling had more broth.

Sheng Jian Bao 4.8/5

The highlight has to be the Sheng Jian Bao. There are two versions, Original Pork Sheng Jian Bao ($3/3pc) and Prawn Sheng Jian Bao ($4/3pc). We had the original version, which is handmade at the stall, and cooked in a huge flat pan that steamed the bun while giving it a crispy exterior at the bottom. It is so good, soft and fluffy, with a delightful crisp at the bottom. The filling was well-flavoured and juicy. I love how the broth gets soaked up by the fluffy dough that gives you a mouthful of flavours in each bite.

Beef Vermicelli Soup 2.5/5

Besides the Xiao Long Bao and Sheng Jian Bao, we also had the Beef Vermicelli Soup ($4.5). The noodles are smooth and silky. However, the broth is very light, almost bland, which is not my cup of tea.

The star dish is the Sheng Jian Bao here. I would highly recommend ordering them. As for the Xiao Long Bao and Beef Vermicelli Soup, you can give it a miss.


Shanghai Fried Xiao Long Bao
(上海生煎小笼包)
Chinatown Complex Food Centre
Blk 335 Smith Street
#02-104
Singapore 050336
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue: 1030am - 330pm, 530pm - 830pm
Thu-Sun: 1030am - 330pm, 530pm - 830pm
(Closed on Wed)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Pagoda Street. Turn right onto Trengganu Street and walk to the end of the street. Cross Smith Street and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Sago Lane. Turn left and walk down Sago Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Five Star Hong Kong Style Handmade Dim Sum @ Shun Li Industrial Complex (Sims Drive) - Hidden Dim Sum Place In An Industrial Complex

There have been many media coverages of Five Star Hong Kong Style Handmade Dim Sum located in a coffeeshop at Mei Ling Street. It is known for its freshly handmade dim sum by Chef Yiu Wah Tai, who has 30 years of experience working at Shang Palace, Shangri La and Jiang Nan Chun, Four Seasons Hotel.

Chef Yiu has opened several Five Star Dim Sum around the island. However, not many people know that they have an outlet hidden on the seventh floor of an industrial building at Sims Drive. Furthermore, the place is air-conditioned!

Siew Mai 4.2/5, Har Gao 4.2/5

Whenever I have Dim Sum, I will order Siew Mai ($4.50) and Har Gao ($4.50). I find that this is the primary entry to judge whether the dim sum at the restaurant is good or not. The Siew Mai and Har Gao here did meet my expectation. The Siew Mai is plump and juicy, while the Har Gao comes with huge prawn wrapped in thin translucent skin.

Char Siew Cheong Fan 3/5, Prawn Cheong Fan 3.5/5

We also tried the Char Siew Cheong Fan ($4) and Prawn Cheong Fan ($4.50). I find these average, and the sauce is a bit too salty. However, it is value for money for the price and the amount of ingredients wrapped in the rice sheet.

Xiao Long Pau 3.5/5

While the Xiao Long Pau ($3.50) is plump and filled with delightful marinated pork filling, the skin was a bit thick for me. However, maybe they need to make the skin thicker to hold the generous filling.

Mala Dumpling 3/5

Though the Mala Dumpling ($4) sauce lacked the punch and fragrant, the dumpling itself is huge and stuffed with delectable filling.

The menu at the Sim Drive outlet is quite limited. There are only 18 items on the menu. We also tried Salted Egg Custard Buns, Char Siew Pau, Congees and Carrot Cake. There is nothing fancy with the dim sum items here, do not have high expectations. Instead, you get a taste of tradition with a generous portion at an affordable price. Unlike the other Five Star Dim Sum outlets, the outlet here also offers zichar dishes, herbal soup and claypot dishes.


Five Star Hong Kong Style Handmade Dim Sum
Shun Li Industrial Complex
705 Sims Drive
#07-01
Singapore 387384
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Nearest MRT: Aljunied (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 830pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Cross the road and walk to bus stop opposite Aljunied MRT station (Stop ID 81081). Take bus number 137. Alight 2 stops later. Walk along Sims Drive to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Jia He Chinese Restaurant @ One Farrer Hotel Connexion - Serving Traditional Chinese Classics And Reimagined Dishes

Opened just November 2019 within the Connexion in Farrer Park, Jia He Chinese Restaurant offers a wide array of Chinese cuisine dishes from traditional Chinese classics such as Steamed BBQ Pork Bun to reimagined dishes such as Steamed Bak Kut The Xiao Long Bao. Not to be missed as well are their signature dishes such as Crispy Hor Fun with Seafood and Egg Sauce. Helmed by chefs with decades of experience from various top hotel dining restaurants along with one that specialises in the art of dim sum creation, diners can expect premium-grade dishes at affordable prices.

Sauteed Stuffed Button Mushroom with Truffle Sauce 4/5, Steamed Bak Kut The Xiao Long Bao 4.2/5

We started off with the appetiser dishes - Sauteed Stuffed Button Mushroom with Truffle Sauce ($14) and Steamed Bak Kut The Xiao Long Bao. The uniquely flavoured bak ku teh xiao long bao has a rich herbal broth encased in a delicate beetroot dumpling skin, while the sauteed stuffed button mushroom was juicy with a nice crisp texture.

Double Boiled Chicken Soup with Stuffed Pig Maw, Shark's Fin and Sarawak Pepper 4/5

Next, we had the Double Boiled Chicken Soup with Stuffed Pig Maw, Shark's Fin and Sarawak Pepper ($138) which was luscious and rich. The stuffed pig maw and shark's fin is added to up the indulgence and provide the boast in flavours and textures of this nourishing soup.

Crisp-fried Fillet of Sea Perch with Lemongrass and Pepper 3.8/5

Crisp-fried Fillet of Sea Perch with Lemongrass and Pepper ($18) features a crispy fish fillet dressed in a spicy-sweet lemongrass sauce.

Wok-fried Live Prawn with Garlic and Shallot 3.8/5

The Wok-fried Live Prawn with Garlic and Shallot ($28) was plump and juicy, coated in a thick sweet, spicy sauce which elevates the taste of the fresh seafood.

Crisp-fried Hor Fun with Seafood and Egg Sauce 4/5

The Crisp-fried Hor Fun with Seafood and Egg Sauce ($24/small) comes in the form of crispy seafood hor fun. A skinnier version of deep-fried skinny kway teow is used for the dish and is paired with a thickened egg seafood gravy. The nest of fried hor fun lost its crispiness when smothered by the egg gravy, and gave a crackling sound as it softens.

Roasted Peking Duck 4/5

The Roasted Peking Duck ($55/whole) is the highlight of our meal. The duck air-dried for 24 hours before being barbecued, basting the meat and rendering the skin extremely crispy. Best enjoyed with some vegetables and wrapped in a thin pancake.

Chilled Back Glutinous Rice with Ice Cream 4.2/5

To round off the meal, we had the Chilled Black Glutinous Rice with Ice Cream ($7) from their desserts menu. The Black Glutinous Rice is encased in a firm ring of coconut jelly, and also comes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add a subtle sweetness and luxurious mouthfeel to the black glutinous rice.

To commemorate Singapore’s 55th Birthday, Jia He will be having a 30% discount for their Lunch & Dinner ala-carte menu for both dine-in and takeaways/delivery (with free delivery for orders above $50). For dine-in customers, with spending above $100 per table, will get a free Signature Peking Duck; for takeaway/delivery customers, with minimum spending of $100 and above, we will also get a delicious Signature Roasted Duck for free too.

Apart from having a delicious NDP 55 promotion till end of September, Jia He also offers a Dim Sum Brunch Cum Hi-Tea every weekend.  Customers can enjoy a variety of dishes ranging from handmade Dim Sum, desserts and even Roasted Peking Duck for just from just $20.80++ (Min 4 Pax). There are three sessions in total: 1045am to 1245pm, 1pm to 3pm & 315pm to 515pm.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jia He Chinese Restaurant
One Farrer Hotel Connexion
1 Farrer Park Station Rd
#01-14/15/16
Singapore 217562
Tel: +65 6694 8988 / +65 6694 9466 / +65 8870 8988
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Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am – 3pm daily (a-la-carte), 530pm - 10pm

Weekend & Public Holiday [Buffet]
3 Seating: 10.45am / 1pm / 3.15pm

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