Yu Cun Curry Fish Head (渔村砂煲咖喱鱼头) @ Sultan Gate - Enticing Lunar New Year Menu Alongside Its Signature Curry Fish Head

After nearly a decade since my first visit to Yu Cun Curry Fish Head's (渔村砂煲咖喱鱼头) inaugural outlet at Upper Paya Lebar in 2015, I decided to explore its second outlet at Sultan Gate. With Chinese New Year just around the corner, Yu Cun has rolled out an enticing festive menu alongside its signature dishes that continue to attract fans. Here's a detailed look at my dining experience.

Yu Cun Prosperity Yu Sheng 3/5

No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without tossing Yu Sheng for abundance and prosperity. Yu Cun's Prosperity Yu Sheng ($55++) is a vibrant dish, but compared to other Yu Sheng offerings in the market, it lacked a wow factor in terms of taste and textural interplay. While the flavours are enjoyable, I found them more ordinary than memorable.

Braised Chicken Soup with Creamy Red Lotus 4.2/5

The Braised Chicken Soup with Creamy Red Lotus ($78++) is a comforting, hearty dish packed with rich flavours, perfect for rainy, chilly weather. The broth, brimming with chicken, red lotus, and white fungus, showcases depth and warmth, making it a standout in their menu.

Prosperity Eight Treasure Duck 4.5/5

The Prosperity Eight Treasure Duck ($98++) is a delightful surprise and an absolute highlight of the meal. The tender, well-braised duck is stuffed with fragrant glutinous rice, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavours. This dish exudes festive indulgence and is a must-try for anyone looking for something special on the menu.

Pen Cai 4.2/5

The Pen Cai ($298++) is a decadent celebration pot filled with premium ingredients such as 10-head abalone, prawns, fish maw, dried scallops, sea cucumber, roasted meats, and vegetables like cabbage and broccoli. The generous portions and luxurious ingredients make it a festive centrepiece. As an added bonus, you can enjoy a 15% discount on the Pen Cai with any purchase of Yu Cun's CNY package.

Steamed Red Grouper in Golden Broth 3.8/5

Fish is an auspicious symbol of abundance during Chinese New Year, and Yu Cun's Steamed Red Grouper in Golden Broth ($118++) is well-executed. The delicate grouper fillets, sandwiched with ham and carrot, are tender and flavorful. While the ham adds richness, the overall dish is satisfying but not groundbreaking.

Bonito Flake Pork Ribs 4/5

The Bonito Flake Pork Ribs ($78++) are fork-tender and marinated in a luscious, sweet sauce. While the addition of bonito flakes adds visual appeal, they don't significantly elevate the flavour profile. That said, the ribs themselves are delicious and worth trying.

Lobster Combinations 3.8/5

The Lobster Combinations ($218++) offers lobster cooked in two styles. The first is deep-fried lobster meat in a sweet orange sauce, while the second is paired with a tangy, spicy Thai-style salad. While the contrasting flavours are enjoyable, the dish felt slightly predictable and lacked the wow factor compared to other seafood options on the menu.

Claypot Curry Fish Head 4.8/5

The star of the show is undoubtedly Yu Cun's Claypot Curry Fish Head. Revisiting this signature dish after almost a decade, I was pleasantly surprised by the improvement in flavour. The curry is now richer, creamier, and more lemak than I remembered. The dish is loaded with fresh vegetables like long beans, lady's fingers, and tau kee, making it a hearty and satisfying offering. It's clear that Yu Cun has refined its recipe over the years, and this dish alone is worth the visit.

Yu Cun Curry Fish Head continues to be a go-to spot for hearty, comforting Chinese cuisine, especially during the festive season. While some dishes on the CNY menu could use a touch more creativity, signature items like the Claypot Curry Fish Head and Prosperity Eight Treasure Duck shine brightly. Whether planning a celebratory feast with family or revisiting old favourites, Yu Cun's offerings will surely make your meal memorable.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yu Cun Curry Fish Head (渔村砂煲咖喱鱼头)
29/31 Sultan Gate
Singapore 198477
Tel: +65 6038 0391
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Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge to the end. Walk along Beach Road towards Sultan Gate road. Turn right onto Sultan Gate road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel - Bringing Joy and Prosperity with a Curated Festive Menus

For this Chinese New Year, The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, a Wyndham Hotel, has curated festive lunch and dinner menu sets available from 8 January to 12 February 2025. The selection features signature dishes crafted to bring joy and prosperity to your table.

"Everlasting Prosperity" Yu Sheng 4/5

We began with the "Everlasting Prosperity" Yu Sheng with Smoked Salmon and Crispy Fish Skin, a refreshing dish enhanced by subtle kaffir lime leaves and a delightful crunch from the crispy fish skin.

Fish Maw Soup 4/5

The next course, Fish Maw Soup with Crab Meat and Conpoy was flavorful and well-balanced, boasting just the right consistency.

Steamed Ginseng Chicken 5/5

One of the standout dishes was the Steamed Ginseng Chicken. The chicken was incredibly tender, and the nourishing ginseng broth was both comforting and aromatic.

Baked Prawns with Buttermilk & Pumpkin Purée 4/5

The Baked Prawns with Buttermilk & Pumpkin Purée are allured by their vibrant colours and garlicky aroma. While the prawns were slightly overcooked, the creamy and tangy buttermilk-pumpkin sauce elevated their texture, making them finger-licking good.

Steamed Marble Goby with Superior Soya Sauce 4.5/5

Braised Abalone with Chinese Mushroom & Broccoli 4/5

Two classic dishes followed: Steamed Marble Goby with Superior Soya Sauce and Braised Abalone with Chinese Mushrooms and Broccoli. The fish had a pleasingly firm texture, its natural sweetness beautifully complemented by the savoury soya sauce. The abalone dish was also well-executed, providing a rich and elegant touch.

Fried Fragrant Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf 5/5

My favourite was the Fried Fragrant Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf — arguably the most memorable lotus leaf rice I've had. The umami-packed sausages appeared to have their casing removed, making them easy to chew and mix seamlessly with the rice. Each bite delivered a symphony of savoury, smoky, and umami flavours.

Chilled Mango Cream 4/5

Dessert was a refreshing Chilled Mango Cream with Aloe Vera, Strawberry, and Pearl Sago. Its sweet and tangy profile rounded off the meal perfectly.

Prosperity Menus (Available from 8th January to 12th February 2025):
From $688++ per table (For 6 persons) to S$1,188++ per table (For 10 persons)
Reunion Dinner Menu (Available only on 28th January 2025) only three signature sets from the Prosperity Menu will be available to celebrate the traditional Reunion Dinner.
Reservations are open from 6th January to 12th February 2025. Please contact 6416 1231

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.


The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel
Peninsula Shopping Complex Singapore
5 Coleman Street
Singapore 179805
Tel: 6337 2200
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line)

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk down North Bridge Road. Walk to traffic junction of North Bridge Road and Coleman Street. Cross the road and turn right onto Coleman Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Meow BBQ @ Bugis+ - CNY Exclusive Meow BBQ 2025 Can Platter

Usher in the Chinese New Year with lively energy and festivities at Meow Barbecue, a popular Chinese cat-themed barbecue restaurant known for its cute meat platters designed to look like cat food cans. Gather your friends and indulge in a festive feast specially crafted to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

Prosperity Yu Sheng

Since it's Chinese New Year, Meow Barbecue has launched a ⁠Prosperity Yu Sheng with little abalones. It's available at both the Bugis+ and VivoCity outlets until 9 Feb, so you can lo hei with friends and family when you come here for your next barbecue feast.

CNY-exclusive Meow BBQ 2025 Can Platter

Of course, the highlight of the evening was the CNY-exclusive Meow BBQ 2025 Can Platter. This festive platter opens up with fanfare to reveal six cuts of meat and signatures, perfect for grilling and sharing (suggested 2-3 pax). From 13 Jan to 9 Feb, the Lucky Snake Can Platter is available at a special price of $88++ (U.P. $128) at both Bugis+ and VivoCity outlets.

The platter consists of:

•⁠ ⁠Thick Cut Iberico Pork Belly (120g)
•⁠ ⁠Wagyu Beef Short Ribs (120g)
•⁠ ⁠Thick Cut Pork Collar (120g)
•⁠ ⁠Meow Signature Spicy Chicken with Szechuan Pepper (150g)
•⁠ ⁠Diamond Cut Marinated Beef Ribs (120g)
•⁠ ⁠Rose Ox Tongue (100g)

The platter offers a variety of delicious barbecue options, and the meat quality is satisfying. I was particularly intrigued by the signature spicy chicken with Szechuan pepper. Its bold, flavourful kick was delicious; I've not had BBQ chicken like this before. We also got to try ox tongue, which was a first for some at the table. You may opt to DIY or request that the staff help you grill the meat.

With every Lucky Snake Can Platter purchased, customers are entitled to a chance to try their luck at Meow Barbecue's Chinese New Year Hong Bao Wall, a sure-win lucky draw offering a chance to win real gold, along with other exclusive prizes, including a cute pair of chopsticks and bowls adorned with adorable cat-themed designs, a limited-edition Meow Barbecue Exclusive 2025 Calendar, dining vouchers and other festive goodies!

Customers also stand a chance to participate in the lucky draw for every $150++ spent and twice the chance if they spend $300++ on a single receipt.

We also tried the Pork Belly with Kimchi and Cheese, prepared by layering kimchi and cheese onto the pork belly, then folding and grilling it — almost like a grilled cheese sandwich! The result is a mouthwatering pocket of melty cheese, and kimchi enveloped in tender pork belly. The staff then sliced it into portions for us to enjoy. This was something quite unique and enjoyable.

We also participated in the Cheese Pull Challenge: Get 50% off every Cheese Corn (U.P. $6.80) ordered by simply tagging @meow_bbq on Instagram or Meow Barbecue on Facebook. Pull the cheese to 50cm or more to enjoy it for free! Honestly, the dish is rather simple, just consisting of melted cheese and corn. However, if you’re looking to have some fun, this could be an entertaining game to play at the table. Roll it well before stretching to ensure that you can get it above 50cm. In fact, our table stretched it to over a metre!

Signature Caramel Pudding, Strawberry Cat Paw Jelly Pudding

For dessert, we had their Signature Caramel Pudding and Strawberry Cat Paw Jelly Pudding. I preferred the Caramel Pudding, which had a lovely custard texture and flavour. The Strawberry Jelly, though undeniably cute, was way too sweet for my taste.

Meow Barbecue has a playful and quirky vibe, with feline-themed décor and friendly staff that adds to the overall fun experience. The grilled meat served is fresh and tasty, and the prices are rather reasonable, making it a good choice for gatherings the next time those BBQ cravings strike!

Photographed and penned by Shermine. She shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences through her pictures and stories. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Meow BBQ
Bugis+
201 Victoria Street
#01-17
Singapore 188067
Tel: +65 80384659
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Nearest MRT: Bugis(EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 12midnight
Sun: 1130am - 1130pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Victoria Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Crystal Jade CNY 2025 - A Treasury of Lunar New Year Specialties to Savour at Crystal Jade Group of Restaurants

Crystal Jade ushers in the Year of the Snake with an exceptional array of festive dishes and set menus across its 17 outlets. Featuring both classic favourites and innovative creations, the offerings showcase the restaurant's hallmark artistry and dedication to authentic flavours. I had the privilege of sampling some highlights, and here's a rundown of the delectable experience.

Premium Prosperity Yu Sheng 5/5

The Premium Prosperity Yu Sheng ($128/$198) is an absolute standout. Showcasing Fresh South African Abalone, Great Amberjack Fish, and Australian Scallop, this dish is elevated by a medley of fresh and dried fruits, candied walnuts, and crispy Hsin Chu bee hoon. Deep-fried yam strips further enhance its textural appeal. With its refreshing taste and harmonious interplay of flavours, this Yu Sheng is hands down one of the best I’ve had this year.

Braised Superior Bird's Nest in Pumpkin Thick Soup 5/5

A bowl of comfort and indulgence, the Braised Superior Bird's Nest in Pumpkin Thick Soup ($68/pax) is a luxurious treat. Enriched with an assortment of seafood and Hokkaido Sea Urchin, the velvety pumpkin base imparts a natural sweetness that complements the nourishing bird's nest. It is a truly delightful and memorable dish.

Air-flown French Turbot Fish Prepared Two-ways 4.2/5

Crystal Jade's Air-Flown French Turbot ($24/100g) celebrates this delicate flatfish in two renditions: sautéed and deep-fried. Served with asparagus and black fungus, the preparation highlights the fish's natural sweetness while offering a delightful contrast of textures.

Shanghainese Style Treasure Pot 4.8/5

The Shanghainese Style Treasure Pot ($128), designed for 3-4 diners, is a refreshing take on the traditional pen cai. Brimming with ingredients such as homemade egg dumplings, mushrooms, prawns, oysters, and fish maw, this rustic one-pot dish is enveloped in a luscious yet lighter sauce — perfect for those seeking a healthier and less heavy alternative.

Salt-Baked Kampung Chicken with Hairy Fig 4.8/5

A crowd favourite, the Salt-Baked Kampung Chicken with Hairy Fig ($68.80) delivers exceptional flavour. The natural sweetness of the hairy fig complements the savoury, tender kampung chicken, making this dish a true celebration of balanced flavours.

Golden Vegetarian Yam Ring with Assorted Vegetable Medley 4.2/5

Vegetarian diners (and even non-vegetarians!) will enjoy the Golden Vegetarian Yam Ring with Assorted Vegetable Medley ($38). Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, the fragrant yam ring pairs wonderfully with the vibrant vegetable medley, offering a delightful textural contrast.

Apple-shaped Mochi with Apple Cinnamon Puree 4.2/5

Crystal Jade showcases its creative flair with the Apple-Shaped Mochi with Apple Cinnamon Purée($8.80 for 3pc). This delicate dessert combines mochi's soft, chewy texture with a warmly spiced apple cinnamon filling, making it a unique and satisfying end to the meal.

Mango Pomelo & Sago Jelly 4.2/5

A playful twist on the classic dessert, the Mango Pomelo & Sago Jelly ($32.80) reimagines the traditional flavours in a visually stunning and refreshing jelly form. It’s a light and delightful finale to any festive feast.

Crystal Jade's Lunar New Year dining runs from 8 January to 12 February 2025 across all outlets, with set menus catering to up to 10 persons. Takeaway delicacies can be pre-ordered online at estore.crystaljade.com from 20 November 2024 to 8 January 2025 and at outlets starting from 11 November 2024. Collections will be available from 8 January to 12 February 2025 at select outlets. With its expertly curated menu and a wide range of festive delights, Crystal Jade ensures a prosperous and memorable Lunar New Year celebration for all.

Note: This is an invited tasting.

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒) @ Marrott Tang Plaza Singapore - A Lunar New Year Filled with Prosperity, Happiness, and Unforgettable Flavours

Celebrate Lunar New Year 2025 in opulence at Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant. Their meticulously curated Cantonese set menus, indulgent à la carte dishes, and exquisite takeaway treasures promise cherished reunions with loved ones. The restaurant's offerings deliver a harmonious blend of tradition and modern elegance, ensuring an unforgettable festive dining experience.

Wan Hao Prosperity Yu Sheng 4.8/5

Toss to a year of abundance and happiness with the Wan Hao Prosperity Yu Sheng. This luxurious creation features a medley of premium ingredients: Japanese Yellowtail, Yellowfin Tuna, Rock Lobster, Hokkaido Scallop, Irish Smoked Salmon, Sturgeon Caviar, and Salmon Roe, paired with vibrant shredded vegetables and crispy fried vermicelli. Each bite is perfectly complemented by the refreshing and zesty dressing, symbolising prosperity and abundance.

Barbecue Suckling Pig with Crepe 4.5/5

The Barbecue Suckling Pig with Crepe makes a grand entrance. The suckling pig boasts perfectly roasted, crispy skin that crackles with every bite. Paired with soft, fluffy crepes, the dish achieves a delightful contrast of textures that is both indulgent and satisfying.

Wan Hao Bird's Nest Eight Treasure Pot 5/5

The highlight of the feast is the Wan Hao Bird's Nest Eight Treasure Pot, a dish that showcases the epitome of luxury. This treasure trove includes delicacies such as 5-Head South African Abalone, Bird’s Nest, Fish Maw, Premium African Sea Cucumber, Black Moss Dace, Fish Bean Curd Skin Bag, Live Prawn, Pork Tendon, Free-Range Chicken, and Japanese Shiitake Mushroom, all steeped in a rich collagen-infused broth. Every spoonful of this dish feels like a celebration of prosperity and nourishment.

Stewed Scampi Prawn in Black Truffle Cheese Sauce 4.5/5

Initially mistaken for lobster, the Steamed Scampi Prawn surprises with its immense size and tender, bouncy meat. Paired with a decadent black truffle cheese sauce, the scampi's natural sweetness shines through, creating a bold and luxurious dish.

Cantonese Style Claypot Rice 4.8/5

A staple at Wan Hao, the Cantonese Style Claypot Rice is a comforting favourite elevated to new heights. The fluffy, fragrant rice is tossed in a superior light soy sauce and paired with foie gras and yellow eel for a refined touch. Add Chinese sausage and cured duck for an extra layer of umami, making this dish a must-try.

Double-Boiled Bird's Nest, Pineapple Pastry, Golden Nian Gao Tart with Yuzu Chocolate 4.5/5

The meal concludes with an exquisite trio of desserts. The Double-Boiled Bird's Nest with American Ginseng and Rock Sugar in Whole Coconut is light and refreshing, a perfect palate cleanser after the rich dishes. The Golden Nian Gao Tart with Yuzu Chocolate is a delightful twist on a festive classic, with the tang of yuzu balancing the sweetness. Finally, the new Pineapple Pastry impresses with its buttery, biscuity texture and luscious pineapple filling, offering a modern take on a traditional favourite.

Available from 26 December 2024 to 12 February 2025, Wan Hao’s Lunar New Year menus feature 6- and 7-course set menus, starting at $138.80++ per person. For festive takeaways, online pre-orders begin on 26 December 2024 at Celebratory Delights, while walk-in purchases can be made at the Lunar New Year booth located at the hotel forecourt from 26 December 2024 to 28 January 2025.

Whether dining in or bringing the feast home, Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant ensures a Lunar New Year filled with prosperity, happiness, and unforgettable flavours.

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]