Nong Geng Ji Hunan Cuisine (农耕记) @ VivoCity - Popular Hunan Restaurant Opens 2nd Outlet at VivoCity

Amidst the bustling F&B scene at VivoCity, the popular Hunan restaurant chain Nong Geng Ji (农耕记) makes its mark with its second outlet, following the success of its flagship at Collyer Quay. Curiosity led me to explore the vivid flavours of their Hunanese offerings.

Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone 4/5

Hunan's signature Xiao Chao Rou (小炒肉) gets a delightful twist at Nong Geng Ji with the Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone ($27.90). A fusion of sliced pork, baby abalones, and Hunan green peppers creates a mildly spicy ensemble. While the dish boasts a unique texture with crunchy fungi, I found myself yearning for more of the signature green pepper, a soulful element that seemed slightly lacking.

Stir-Fried Kampung Chicken with Camellia Oil 3.5/5

The Stir-Fried Kampung Chicken with Camellia Oil ($23.90) unfolds with tender chicken, crunchy black fungus, and potatoes. However, the disappointment lingers as the chicken pieces don't quite deliver on the meaty front.

Casserole Flavoured Smoked Bamboo Shoots 4.2/5

A star of the meal, the Casserole Flavoured Smoked Bamboo Shoots beckon for a bowl of rice. Their spicy kick might be intense for those averse to heat, but the flavourful and crunchy bamboo shoots leave a lasting impression.

Steamed Pork Ribs with Taro 3/5

Shifting gears to a non-spicy dimension, the Steamed Pork Ribs with Taro ($18.90) features soft and tender pork ribs atop a fragrant yam bed. It evokes the essence of steamed pork ribs dim sum, a comforting interlude in the spice-laden lineup.

Glutinous Rice Cake with Brown Sugar 3.8/5

Concluding our dinner is the Glutinous Rice Cake with Brown Sugar ($3.90). This trio of soft and spongy delights bathed in balanced brown sugar provides a sweet closure to the Hunanese feast.

Nong Geng Ji at Vivocity is a worthy addition to the Hunan culinary landscape in Singapore. Despite minor hiccups, the restaurant captures the essence of Hunanese cuisine, offering a flavourful journey that invites both spice enthusiasts and those seeking unique textures.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nong Geng Ji Hunan Cuisine (农耕记)
VivoCity
1 Harbourfront Walk
#01-51A
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 9082 0013
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am -10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to destiation. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee (老王传统福建面) @ Clementi Ave 1 - A Decent Plate of Fried Hokkien Mee In Clementi

Exploring my new neighbourhood has led me to Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee (老王传统福建面), tucked inside a quaint coffeeshop along Clementi Avenue 1. Intrigued by the local buzz surrounding this spot, I decided to try the Hokkien Mee.

Lao Wang caters to different appetites with their Hokkien Mee, available in three sizes: Small ($6), Medium ($9), and Large ($12). Opting for the small portion, I was pleasantly surprised by the generous serving, featuring a delightful mix of squid, prawn, and pork combined with yellow noodles and bee hoon. The menu also offers additional toppings like pork lard, prawns, sambal, or the option to serve it in opel leaf for an extra cost.

Fried Hokkien Mee 3.5/5

The Fried Hokkien Mee I sampled presented a unique take—neither overly dry nor immersed in a prawny broth. However, it lacked the robust flavour profile I typically seek in a stellar plate of Hokkien Mee. The distinct alkaline taste from the yellow noodles was more pronounced than I preferred.

In the grand landscape of Hokkien Mee offerings, Lao Wang's rendition falls just above the average standard. While it might not secure a spot in my top 10, it certainly stands out as a commendable choice for a decent plate of fried Hokkien Mee in the vicinity. For those seeking a satisfying local meal around Clementi, Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee is undoubtedly a "not bad" choice.



Lao Wang Traditional Hokkien Mee
(老王传统福建面)
Blk 420A Clementi Ave 1
Singapore 121420
Tel: +65 97956033
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 11am - 930pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17179). Take bus 189. Alight 5 stops later. Cross the road, walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]