Showing posts with label Yam Paste. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Yam Paste. Show all posts

Thursday, July 30, 2026

Beng Hiang Restaurant @ Shangri-La Singapore - Timeless Flavours, New Setting, Beng Hiang’s Hokkien Legacy Continues

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Reopened with a refreshed concept yet rooted in tradition, Beng Hiang Restaurant marks a significant new chapter with its culinary residency at Shangri-La Singapore’s Garden Terrace. Officially welcoming diners back on 26 June 2026, the 48-year-old heritage Hokkien brand has transitioned from its former Jurong East flagship into an elegant 80-seat indoor-outdoor setting. While the new space brings a more refined dining environment, the soul of Beng Hiang remains intact — preserving its time-honoured recipes while introducing a thoughtful selection of elevated, region-inspired dishes.

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Aged Yongchun Vinegar Jellyfish Terrine 4/5

One of the residency’s exclusive cold appetisers, the Aged Yongchun Vinegar Jellyfish Terrine ($15) sets the tone with its refined presentation. Unlike the usual tossed jellyfish salad, this version is carefully pressed into a terrine, giving it a polished, almost pâté-like form. The use of Yongchun aged vinegar — a prized Monascus vinegar from Fujian — lends a deep, complex profile with mellow sweetness and umami undertones. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast between the jellyfish’s signature crunch and the smooth, savoury jelly, making it both refreshing and sophisticated.

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5-Spiced Sausages and Prawn Balls 4.2/5

The 5-Spiced Sausages and Prawn Balls ($18) platter stays true to Beng Hiang’s roots, showcasing a recipe passed down for over four decades. The pork roll is tightly wrapped in beancurd skin and deep-fried to a golden crisp, revealing a fragrant, well-seasoned filling infused with five-spice. Complementing it are the prawn balls, which offer a springy, bouncy bite packed with natural sweetness. Together, they present a comforting introduction to classic Hokkien flavours.

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Superior Crab Meat and Fish Maw Broth 4.2/5

Rich, velvety, and deeply comforting, the Superior Crab Meat and Fish Maw Broth ($20 per pax) is a quintessential Hokkien-style soup done right. Generous portions of premium fish maw and sweet shredded crab meat fill the bowl, creating a luxurious texture with every spoonful. The broth is thick yet well-balanced, delivering warmth and depth without feeling overly heavy.

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Spinach with Dried Sole Fish 4.2/5

A seemingly simple dish, the Spinach with Dried Sole Fish ($16) exemplifies how restraint and technique can elevate humble ingredients. The tender greens are lightly stir-fried and accented with crispy bits of dried sole fish (bian yu), adding a punch of umami and a subtle smokiness. It’s a clean, well-executed dish that balances the richer items on the menu.

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Slow-braised Hokkien Duck with Aged Ginger 4.5/5

One of the residency’s highlights, the Slow-braised Hokkien Duck with Aged Ginger ($40) showcases a more refined take on traditional flavours. The duck is braised until fork-tender, soaking up a deeply savoury sauce infused with the warming intensity of aged ginger. The result is a dish that feels both comforting and elevated, with layers of flavour that linger pleasantly on the palate.

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Fujian-style Steamed Mud Crab with Glutinous Rice 4.5/5

For a celebratory centrepiece, the Fujian-style Steamed Mud Crab with Glutinous Rice ($138) is a standout. Available via pre-order, this communal dish features a large mud crab brimming with rich roe, steamed atop a bed of glutinous rice. As the crab cooks, its juices seep into the rice below, transforming each grain into a flavour-packed bite of briny sweetness and umami. Ideal for sharing, it is both indulgent and deeply satisfying.

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Beng Hiang’s Hokkien Noodle 5/5

A visit would not be complete without the restaurant’s Signature Hokkien Noodles ($22). A staple for nearly five decades, the dish features thick yellow noodles braised in a dark, flavourful gravy made from pork bone and prawn stock. Topped with seafood and crispy pork lard, it delivers richness and depth in every mouthful.

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Crispy Oyster Omelette 4.2/5

Breaking away from the usual gooey rendition, Beng Hiang’s Crispy Oyster Omelette ($25) focuses on texture. The egg batter is pan-fried into a thin, golden sheet with a satisfying crunch, while the plump oysters remain juicy and briny. It’s a refreshing take that balances crispness with natural seafood sweetness. The accompanying housemade silver fish chilli sauce adds a zesty, savoury kick that enhances the overall experience.

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Yam Paste with Ginkgo Nuts 4.5/5

Ending on a nostalgic note, the Yam Paste with Ginkgo Nuts ($10 per pax) remains one of Beng Hiang’s most beloved desserts. Smooth, thick, and velvety without being overly rich, it strikes a delicate balance between earthy sweetness and the aromatic hint of shallot oil. The addition of soft ginkgo nuts introduces a subtle bitterness that rounds off the dessert beautifully.

Beng Hiang’s return is more than just a relocation — it is a thoughtful evolution of a heritage brand. At Shangri-La Singapore’s Garden Terrace, the restaurant successfully bridges tradition and modernity, offering long-time fans the comfort of familiar favourites while inviting new diners to experience Hokkien cuisine through a more refined lens. With its carefully curated menu and elevated setting, Beng Hiang proves that heritage dining can remain relevant while staying true to its roots.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Beng Hiang
Shangri-La Singapore
Garden Terrace (Level 1)
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 6221 6695/ 6684
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 6pm - 9:30pm

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]

Saturday, January 17, 2026

York Hotel Celebrates The Year of The Hourse With Timeless Chinese New Year Flavours

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To celebrate the Year of the Horse, York Hotel has curated a range of takeaway offerings featuring both festive classics and new creations, perfect for cosy home celebrations or gifting.

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Prosperity Lo Hei 4/5

The Flavours of Fortune Combo ($298, serves 4–5 pax) is a wholesome yet luxurious spread of festive delicacies ideal for home celebrations. The set includes a Prosperity Lo Hei with Smoked Nordic Salmon and Sliced Abalone (large), as well as a thoughtful selection of mains and a dessert to round off the feast.

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Buddha Jumps Over the Wall 4.5/5

One standout from the set is a vegetarian rendition of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall ($98 à la carte). This meatless version was no less flavourful than its traditional counterpart. The slow-simmered medley of morel mushrooms, cordyceps flowers, shark fin melon, chestnut, shiitake and oyster mushrooms, carrot, radish, Shanghai greens, yam, and red dates resulted in a deeply nourishing dish for all.

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Braised Duck with Sea Cucumber in Orange 3/5

The Braised Duck with Sea Cucumber in Orange Plum Sauce ($98 à la carte) is a returning favourite, elevated with a tangy orange plum sauce that adds a pleasant citrusy lift. That said, the portion I had was slightly dry despite the rich, flavoursome sauce, and the sea cucumber could have been more tender.

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Steamed Multigrain Rice 4.5/5

My favourite dish of the combo, and of the evening as well, was the Steamed Multigrain Rice ($58 à la carte). Every bite was deeply umami, enriched with Chinese sausage and an enjoyable mix of textures from chestnut, lotus seed, black-eyed peas, and savoury sakura shrimp.

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Golden Treasure Seafood Pot 4.2/5

Among the popular takeaway items is the Golden Treasure Seafood Pot, brimming with premium seafood such as rock lobster, crab claw, scallops, and prawns. The shellfish broth was vibrant and robust. While most ingredients were well-cooked, the rock lobster was slightly overdone.

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Fortune Herbal Chicken 4/5

For something comforting and homely, the Fortune Herbal Chicken with Red Dates and Goji Berries ($68) delivered precisely that. The chicken was succulent, soaking up the gentle, nourishing flavours of the herbal broth.

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Honey-glazed Pork Ribs in Hawthorn Berry Sauce 2.8/5

A meatier option is the Honey-glazed Pork Ribs in Hawthorn Berry Sauce, served with deep-fried mini mantou ($68). The sauce was tantalisingly tangy and sweet, though the ribs didn’t take on the glaze evenly, leaving some parts a little bland and dry.

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Stir-Fried Tomato Garlic Prawn 4.5/5

The Stir-Fried Tomato Garlic Prawn ($68 nett, serves 4–5 persons) injected the meal with joyous, nostalgic flavours. Succulent prawns were coated in a thick, tomatoey sauce fragrant with garlic, evoking a comforting taste of home.

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Traditional Yam Paste 5/5

Dessert was the Traditional Yam Paste with Pumpkin and Ginkgo Nuts, which was easily one of the best versions I’ve had in a long time—smooth, well-balanced, and a satisfying end to the meal.

All takeaway dishes require a three (3) working-day advance order. Customers can self-collect at White Rose Café from 2 February to 3 March 2026, from 11 am to 8 pm. The last collection on the eve of Chinese New Year (16 February 2026) is at 4 pm. For dine-in, prices are subject to 10% service charge and prevailing Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Citibank, DBS/POSB, and UOB cardholders enjoy the following:

Early Bird Offer: Enjoy 15% off Lunar New Year takeaway items in a single receipt, with orders and full payment received by 9 February 2026. Regular Offer (10 February to 3 March 2026): Enjoy 10% off Lunar New Year takeaway items

Pre-order link for takeaway: https://www.tablecheck.com/en/york-hotel-white-rose-cafe

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.


White Rose Cafe
York Hotel
21 Mount Elizabeth
Singapore 228516
Tel: +65 67370511
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am to 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road towards Goodwood Park Hotel. At Goodwood Park, turn right and walk to the end of the carpark. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Monday, October 30, 2023

藝 Yi By Jereme Leung @ Raffles Singapore - A Sumptuous Tribute to The Hairy Crab Season

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In conjunction with the hairy crab season, 藝 Yì by Jereme Leung at Raffles Singapore presents a refined and artistic line-up of exquisite Hairy Crab Creations from 16 October to 17 November 2023.

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Amuse Bouche 3.5/5

Our amuse-bouche offers a myriad of sour, sweet, and spicy flavors using the technique of pickling, which is an integral part of China’s culinary history. The Pickled Genting Highlands Mini Tomato with Dried Sweet Plum whetted my appetite with its salty-sweet juice, while the rest awakened the senses with their heat, acidity and crunchy texture.

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Appetizers 3.5/5

For appetiser, we got to try 2 items from their exclusive Memoirs of Nanyang Menu - Foie Gras Terrine with Calamansi & Organic Perilla Plum and Deep-fried Crab Roll with Malacca Shrimp Paste and Ipoh Guava Salsa. These 2 items highlight the versatility of ingredients native to Southeast Asia, such as the use of the tart Calamasi, the funky yet alluring Malacca shrimp paste and the zesty Ipoh's Guava. In addition, we were also served with a juicy Poached Oyster with Japanese Sea urchin & Kristal Caviar.

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Hot & Sour Basil Chicken Consommé 4/5

Before the mains, we were served a soul-warming Hot & Sour Basil Chicken Consommé with Geoduck & Cameron Highlands Stem Lettuce. One could easily be fooled by its clear appearance. The heat level is quite intense, thanks to Sichuan pepper, but it also has a sweet depth to it. The slices of geoduck provided an enjoyable texture, contrasting with the crunchy Cameron Highlands' Stem Lettuce.

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Steamed Hairy Crab 4/5

From the Hairy Crab Creations' menu, we sampled the most popular dish: Traditional Steamed Hairy Crab with Taiwanese Mullet Roe & Perilla Leaves, served with Osmanthus & Wolfberry Ginger Tea. The freshly sourced furry-clawed crustaceans from Taihu boasted rich and creamy roe, while every nook and corner of the shell was filled with firm and sweet crab meat. I love the warm and fragrant ginger tea at the side, lending a hint of sweet floral note to the overall taste of the dish.

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Deep fried Spotted Groupa with Spicy Hairy Crab Roe 3/5

Another item on the menu we tried was Deep Fried Spotted Groupa with Spicy Hairy Crab Roe, crispy brown rice and Edamame. I found the exterior of the fish too dry and tough.

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Hainanese Steamed Bentong Sakura Chicken 4.2/5

On the other hand, the Hainanese Steamed Bentong Sakura Chicken with Fragrant Pandan Rice & Yunnan Wild Fungus received rave reviews at our table. It's a pity that the Memoirs of Nanyang menu ends in just 2 days. The premium Sakura Chicken was exceptionally succulent and tender, and the accompanying rice was a star of its own. Fluffy and aromatic with pandan, the shreds of fungus mixed within further added texture to the rice.

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Shao Xing Wine Ice Cream with Yam Paste & Gingko Nuts 4/5

Our sweet ending was Shao Xing Wine Ice Cream with Yam Paste & Gingko Nuts ($18) from the Hairy Crab Creations. The warm yam was velvety with just the right sweetness, complemented by the refreshing ice cream.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


藝 Yi By Jereme Leung
Raffles Arcade
328 North Bridge Road
Singapore 188719
Tel: +65 63371886
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 2pm, 6pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Junction of North Bridge Road and Bras Basah Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, October 21, 2023

SHAO Tapas (烧) @ Holland Village - A New Modern Teochew Tapas-style Restaurant By SHAO (烧)

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SHAO Restaurant, renowned for its Teochew cuisine at Frankel Avenue, has expanded with SHAO Tapas (烧), a new Teochew tapas-style restaurant located in the bustling district of Holland Village. The atmosphere at SHAO Tapas exudes contemporary style and vibrancy, offering diners a modern setting to savour bold and flavorful Teochew dishes. To elevate the dining experience, they also feature a well-crafted bar menu, serving creative cocktails that perfectly complement the diverse flavours of their cuisine.

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Pan Seared Black Ink Cuttlefish Sausage 4.5/5

Pan Seared Black Ink Cuttlefish Sausage ($18) kicks off the meal, presenting an unusual but delicious creation. The use of squid ink elevates its savoury profile, while the texture is slightly crunchier than a typical sausage. The pan-searing process enhances the aroma, making this cuttlefish sausage highly addictive.

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Raw Roe Crab Marinated with Shao Xsing Wine in Teochew Style (500g) 4.2/5

Raw Roe Crab Marinated with Shao Xsing Wine in Teochew Style ($78) is a must-try for those with adventurous palates. Unlike typical raw crab dishes, it's surprisingly devoid of any fishy taste. This dish is a palate-pleasing blend of aromatics that complements the crab's natural sweetness.

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Baby Pomfret 3/5

Previously savoured at the Frankel outlet, the Baby Pomfret ($9 for 5pc, $16 for 10pc) is a cute dish deep-fried to a satisfying crispiness, allowing diners to enjoy the entire fish. However, the appreciation of this dish largely depends on personal preferences, as there is little beyond its crispy texture to make it a standout fish dish. So, diners should consider their expectations and preferences when ordering this dish.

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Braised Combination Platter 4/5

An essential element of Teochew cuisine lies in its mastery of braised dishes. We opted for the Braised Combination Platter ($28), which included Pork Belly, Pig's Skin, Pig's Intestine, and Tofu. To enhance the dining experience, it was accompanied by a traditional Teochew white vinegar dip, which perfectly complemented the braised items. The only drawback is that the pork belly was excessively fatty for my taste. It might reflect a shift towards healthier eating choices as we age.

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Grilled Pork Jowl 4/5

Although not a traditional Teochew dish, the Grilled Pork Jowl ($18) is well-executed, with a tender texture and a delightful sweet sauce.

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Poached Crispy Rice in Seafood Stocks 4.8/5

The Poached Crispy Rice in Seafood Stocks ($34) was undoubtedly one of our favourite dishes, providing a hearty and comforting experience. This dish featured a rich seafood broth accompanied by grouper fillets, scallops, and prawns. What set it apart was the rice, which retained its grainy texture, offering that distinct Teochew preference for a delightful bite.

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Yam Paste 4.2/5

To end on a sweet note, the Yam Paste ($10) includes a surprise addition of osmanthus to the creamy yam paste, enhancing its fragrance and sweetness.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


SHAO Tapas (烧)
Holland Village
44 Lorong Mambong
Singapore 277697
Tel: +65 6993 9333
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 430pm - 1130pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 1130pm

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 and turn right onto Lorong Mambong. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.[Map]

Thursday, July 6, 2023

Mutiara Seafood @ Wisma Geylang Serai - First-ever Halal-certified Seafood Restaurant By JUMBO Group

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JUMBO Group opens Mutiara Seafood, their first-ever Halal-certified Seafood concept nestled in the heart of Geylang Serai. Mutiara Seafood shines as a culinary gem within the vibrant Wisma Geylang Serai, with its name derived from the Malay word for' pearl'. This seafood restaurant brings together an unprecedented array of Singaporean-style seafood dishes alongside exclusive grilled creations.

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Boasting a seating capacity of 176, Mutiara Seafood also offers four private dining rooms, each with a contemporary ambience suitable for exclusive gatherings, business or personal events.

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Crispy Fried Baby Squid 4.2/5

Our dinner began with the Crispy Fried Baby Squid ($16), expertly deep-fried to achieve a delectable crispness. Tossed in a sweet and savoury sauce, this dish was delightful and addictive, heightened by a sprinkle of sesame seeds that added a touch of aromatic goodness.

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Seafood Pumpkin Soup 4/5

Next, we indulged in the Seafood Pumpkin Soup ($32/$48/$64), a hearty and comforting concoction. The soup's flavour boasted depth, with the sweetness of the pumpkin harmonizing perfectly with the delicate seafood. The combination yielded a creamy texture that enveloped our palates in pure satisfaction.

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Indonesia Grilled Chicken 4.2/5

The Indonesia Grilled Chicken ($20 Half/$36 Whole) showcased JUMBO Seafood's prowess in grilling to perfection. A rich umami flavour from the careful spice marinade enhanced each succulent and juicy bite. The caramelized glaze, created by the marriage of kecap manis and the grill's heat, lent a glossy and sticky coating to the chicken. This glaze enhanced the dish's appearance and added a subtle sweetness that complemented the savoury flavours exquisitely.

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Kang Kong Stir Fried with Sambal 4/5

Kang Kong Stir Fried with Sambal ($14/$21/$28) showcased the vibrant green colour and satisfying crunch of the kang kong vegetable. The soul of the dish lay in the sambal, which imparted a punchy and fiery shiokness, elevating the overall experience.

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Grilled Red Tilapia Fish with Sambal 4/5

We then relished in the Grilled Red Tilapia Fish with Sambal ($40), where meaty red snapper took centre stage. Layered with a punchy chilli sambal, the fish was grilled to mouth-watering perfection, allowing the flavours to meld harmoniously.

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Signature Chilli Crab 4.5/5

A visit to Mutiara Seafood would only be complete with savouring their Signature Chilli Crab (market price). This iconic Singaporean dish featured sweet and fleshy crab drenched in JUMBO Seafood's signature sweet and spicy chilli sauce, best enjoyed with deep-fried mantou buns. The halal rendition of this beloved classic lived up to its renowned reputation.

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Signature Black Pepper Crab 4.5/5

Another must-try is the Signature Black Pepper Crab (market price), showcasing the marriage of fresh crab's natural sweetness with black pepper's aromatic and spicy notes. Embrace the messiness and savour the crab with all its flavourful glory.

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Jimbaran Grilled Prawns 4.2/5

The Jimbaran Grilled Prawn ($28/4pc) made an impressive entrance with its substantial size. Cooked in classic Balinese style, these prawns were treated to a deep rub and marinade of Jimbaran spices, resulting in a tantalising burst of flavours.

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Mee Goreng 4.2/5

The Mee Goreng ($20/$30/$40) was a standout choice to satisfy noodle cravings. The noodles were expertly wok fired to smoky perfection in the traditional Malay style. The sweet, spicy, and savoury sauce coated the noodles impeccably, and a squeeze of calamansi provided a refreshing tang. Prawns and squid were generously incorporated to elevate the dish further.

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Mango Pudding 4/5

Finally, we indulged in the Mango Pudding ($5) and Sweet Yam Paste ($5) to conclude our meal on a sweet note. The Mango Pudding delighted us with its soft and creamy texture, garnished with fresh mango that added a fruity freshness. However, the Sweet Yam Paste caught our attention with its unique twist on the traditional dessert. Accompanied by a sweet corn soup, this rendition provided a delightful contrast of flavours and textures that satisfied us thoroughly.

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Sweet Yam Paste 4.2/5

In conclusion, Mutiara Seafood by JUMBO Group is a remarkable addition to the seafood dining scene in Singapore. Its Halal certification offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for diners seeking authentic Singaporean-style seafood dishes. From the crispy and addictive appetisers to the succulent grilled specialities and signature crab dishes, every bite at Mutiara Seafood was a testament to JUMBO Seafood's culinary expertise. Coupled with the elegant dining space and attentive service, a visit to Mutiara Seafood promises a memorable gastronomic experience that will surely please seafood enthusiasts and discerning diners alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting session.


Mutiara Seafood
Wisma Geylang Serai
1 Engku Aman Turn
#01-02 & #02-02/03
Singapore 408528
Tel: +65 68163030
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Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit E. Cut through PLQ Mall to Sims Ave. Cross the road and walk to Tanjong Katong Road. Walk down Tanjong Katong Road to Geylang Road. Turn left onto Geylang Road. Walk down Geylang Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]