One of our ultimate guilty pleasures in life is Salted Egg Yolk Custard Buns, or more commonly referred to as Liu Sha Bao. Mad props to whoever invented this decadent steamed delight because it is a work of pure genius and we are sure that many would agree.

The moment you burst open the Liu Sha Bao and molten salted egg yolk come oozing out; that is the epitome of bliss.

Here is our list of 13 Best Salted Egg Yolk Custard Buns (Liu Sha Bao) in Singapore.

#1 ASIA GRAND CHINESE RESTAURANT

Despite the tough competition in Singapore’s food scene, Asia Grand at Odeon Towers remains one of the go-to places for businessmen to entertain their clients, as well as families to have their weekend yum cha. The place is not fancy, but the food is always of high standards.

And of course, how can you go to Asia Grand and not try their liu sha bao?

331 North Bridge Road
Odeon Towers
Singapore 188720
Tel: +65 6887 0010
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 10am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

#2 CRYSTAL JADE GOLDEN PALACE

Crystal Jade Golden Palace at The Paragon is an all-time favourite dim sum place in Singapore. We love Crystal Jade’s steamy hot basket of custard bun. The ones here are orange in colour, because the skin is infused with carrot juice.

290 Orchard Road
#05-22 The Paragon
Singapore 238859
Tel: +65 6734 6866
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 10.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#3 IMPERIAL TREASURE FINE CHINESE CUISINE

The Imperial Treasure name is synonymous with high quality and exquisitely fine Chinese food. The prices may be hefty, but considering their use of premium ingredients and the impeccable service rendered to us each time we visit, there is zero reason for us to complain.

We really love it there, and of course, it is also because we are such huge fans of their custard buns. Honestly, we could easily finish a basket each.

#L2-04, Marina Bay Sands
10 Bayfront Avenue
Singapore 018972
Tel: +65 6688 7788
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Sunday: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bayfront

#4 MAN FU YUAN

Serving up a myriad of classic Cantonese dishes in a lavish setting, Man Fu Yuan never fails to leave an impression.

Their dim sum offerings are simply divine and we make it a point never to miss out on their Salted Egg Custard Bun. Here, you can opt to have these glorious buns steamed or deep-fried.

80 Middle Road
2F Intercontinental Hotel
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 6825 1008
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#5 MIN JIANG AT DEMPSEY

Going against the norm, Min Jiang prides itself with its custard bun that exudes a charcoal-black hue.

Of course, the charcoal does not add much to the bun’s taste, but we can all agree that it looks a whole lot better especially after the golden salted egg yolk custard comes spilling out of it.

7A & 7B Dempsey Road,
Singapore 249684
Tel: +65 6774 0122
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Commonwealth/Queenstown

#6 MITZO RESTAURANT & BAR

Mitzo Restaurant & Bar ranks pretty high on our list of top dim sum restaurants and it is only right that we make a special mention about their stellar charcoal custard buns. Decorated luxuriously with edible gold lychee liqueur, this humble custard-filled bun surely is an eye-opener.

We love that the charcoal adds a subtle smokiness that complements the creamy, luscious salted egg yolk centre incredibly well.

270 Orchard Road
Level 4 Grand Park Orchard
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8855
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

#7 PEACH GARDEN

Dining at Peach Garden always promises a satisfying meal courtesy of their huge range of tasty dim sum delights, but the one thing we cannot do without are their custard buns.

Not to sound overly dramatic but believe us when we say that Peach Garden has one of the best custard buns in Singapore!

401 Havelock Road
Hotel Miramar, Level 3
Singapore 169631
Tel: +65 6736 3833
Sun to Thu: 11am – 3.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown

#8 SONG GARDEN

No dim sum meal would be complete without some form of stuffed bao. For a sweet treat, we recommend getting the Steamed Custard Bun that oozes out molten salted egg yolk. Be sure to have your phones at the ready to snap a video of that luscious filling spilling out!

122 Middle Road
Mercure Singapore Bugis
Singapore 188973
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#9 TASTE PARADISE

The next time you find yourself wandering aimlessly around Ion Orchard in search of food, stop by Taste Paradise for their amazing dim sum offerings and of course, their stellar custard buns.

2 Orchard Turn
#04-07, ION Orchard
Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 6509 9660
Mon to Fri: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 11am – 4.30pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#10 WAH LOK CANTONESE RESTAURANT

Offering beyond just the usual Steamed Custard Bun, Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant also has a slightly different rendition—a Baked Custard Bun with warm custard.

Although it does not come with molten custard lava, it is still an interesting option if you are looking for something different.

Level 2 Carlton Hotel Singapore
76 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189558
Tel: +65 6311 8188
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun & PH: 11am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

#11 WAN HAO CHINESE RESTAURANT

With doors opened since 1995, Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant is one of luxurious Chinese restaurants along Orchard Road that serves classic Cantonese delicacies.

The restaurant serves an assortment of dim sum during lunch, but the one that you must try is the Steamed Charcoal Bun With Salted Egg Custard.

320 Orchard Road
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
Singapore 238865
Tel: +65 6831 4605
Mon to Fri: 12pm to 3pm, 6.30pm to 10.30pm
Sat, Sun and PH: 11.30am – 3pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#12 XIN CUISINE CHINESE RESTAURANT

While Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant may not be the poshest restaurant on this list, we always look forward to the next visit because a meal here will never disappoint. Whenever you are popping by for their dim sum, do give their Custard Bun with Salted Egg Yolk a try.

#04-00 Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium
317 Outram Road
Singapore 169075
Tel: +65 6731 7173
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown

#13 YAN TING

The luxurious St Regis Singapore has no lack of good restaurants, and we have been fans of Yan Ting for years. Drop by for lunch at Yan Ting and do not skip their Steamed Salted Egg Yolk Buns if you are going for their dim sum menu.

29 Tanglin Road
The St. Regis Singapore
Singapore 247911
Tel: +65 6506 6887
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Weekend Dim Sum Brunch (Sat, Sun & PH): 10.30am – 12.30pm, 1pm – 3pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Cantonese cuisine, more specifically dim sum, often brings to mind the usual suspects such as comforting porridge, bao, and dumplings of sorts, but over at Song Garden, there is much more than meets the eye than the conventional mix of dim sum treats.

Located on the second level of Mercure Singapore Bugis, this contemporary Cantonese restaurant astounds with its array of elaborate and mouth-watering dishes. Your taste buds are in for a tantalising treat of innovative creations such as Pan-seared ‘Otak’ Seafood Dumpling on Skewer, Baked Abalone Pastry and Deep-Fried Charcoal Chili Crab Meat Ball.

Helmed by Executive Chef Wong Shea Nung and Executive Dim Sum Chef Leung Chi Man—both of whom have decades of experience in Cantonese cooking in Hong Kong—what diners can look forward to is an impressive array of over 30 classic dim sum staples as well as some modern interpretations that are all carefully curated by the chef duo themselves.

From now until May 31 2018 (except for Mother’s Day on 13 May), our readers can quote ‘ladyironchef’ upon making your reservation to enjoy 15% off all dim sum (with min spend of S$60++).

Here’s what you can expect from Song Garden’s stellar line-up of dim sum delights.

Decked out in shades of red and gold with traditional Chinese furnishings and gorgeous art pieces adorning its walls, this elaborate 120-seater Cantonese restaurant sets the mood for some proper dim sum dining, be it for family or friends.

There are also large private dining rooms that can sit more than twenty pax!

PAN-SEARED ‘OTAK’ SEAFOOD DUMPLING ON SKEWER

We are always game for modern dishes with a twist, especially those that creatively blend flavours and textures from our local cuisine. Chef Leung’s Pan-seared ‘Otak’ Seafood Dumpling on Skewer (S$6++ for 4 pieces) is without a doubt perfection on a skewer.

His version of the iconic Siew Mai (pork dumplings) replaces minced pork with spicy mackerel otah paste and prawns. The Siew Mai is first steamed before being wok-fried. Laced with aromatic spices, this siew mai rendition promises a nice crunch and a mildly spicy kick.

MINI EGG TARTS

As far as egg tarts go, it is more than just the yellowish custard that defines a really good one. The short-crust pastry that encases it is just as important—if not, more. Here at Song Garden, the Mini Egg Tarts (S$4.20++ for 3 pieces) are far better than your traditional flaky egg tarts. Buttery, crumbly and filled with a luscious egg filling, this is undeniably one of the best renditions in Singapore.

What we particularly loved about this was the fact that it was small enough to eat in one bite, which for one, does away with the nuisance of crumbs falling everywhere, and allows you to taste every single component at one go.

DEEP-FRIED CHARCOAL CRAB MEAT BALL

New to Song Garden’s menu is the Deep-Fried Charcoal Chili Crab Meat Ball (S$7.50++ for 3 pieces). Perfectly fried and generously filled with a lip-smacking good chilli crab filling, this is truly a treat to behold.

The initial bite excites with a pleasant crunch, followed by the sweet, savoury and spicy chilli crab filling that comes pouring out all over your tongue. The contrast between flavour and texture was struck beautifully and out of all the many chilli crab innovations we have tried over the years, we must say this is among our top few favourites.

PAN-FRIED FOIE GRAS DUMPLING

Although nothing much to shout about at first glance, their Pan-Fried Foie Gras Dumpling (S$S$4.50++ for 3 pieces) is something that left us yearning for more. If you fancy foie gras, then these morsels are the perfect thing to have.

Foie gras is mixed together with marinated pork mince which gives the dumpling a luxurious iron flavour in addition to the savoury pork. Have this with a few strands of the vinegar-soaked ginger and prepare for a flavour explosion in your mouth.

LOBSTER WITH PUMPKIN CONGEE

Boasting a bright yellow hue and robust seafood aroma, the Lobster with Pumpkin Congee (S$28++) is a showstopper in its own right. The porridge contained subtle nuances of pumpkin which made the overall flavour much sweeter than regular congee. The lobster tail was plump, tender and sweet.

BAKED ABALONE PASTRY WITH BLACK TRUFFLE

For those looking to splurge a little more than usual, consider their Baked Abalone Pastry with Black Truffle (S$8.80++ for 1 piece). These luxurious “tarts” feature a very buttery tart pastry which is filled with black truffle and topped with a braised abalone. The complex flavours will definitely get you addicted. We couldn’t stop at one!

STIR-FRIED CARROT CAKE WITH SIGNATURE CHILLI SAUCE

As fans of fried carrot cake, we must say that the Stir-fried Carrot Cake with Signature Chilli Sauce (S$8.80++) is a must-order when at Song Garden. Tossed in a mixture of egg, bean sprouts and their signature chilli sauce, the dish boasts a subtle spiciness and an apparent wok hei.

STEAMED CHEONG-FUN WITH FRESH PRAWN FILLING

If you thought that this Cantonese restaurant’s cheong fun was going to be your typical rice roll stuffed with bits of prawn, you thought wrong. In their Steamed Cheong-fun with Fresh Prawn Filling (S$6++), delicate paper-thin sheets (that are all made in-house daily) nicely wraps itself around a crispy roll filled with deliciously crunchy prawns.

Simple as it may seem, the textural variety from the sweet and succulent prawns as well as the crispy roll will have you rethink about regular chee cheong fun.

BAO GALORE

No dim sum meal would be complete without some form of stuffed bao. For a sweet treat, go for the Steamed Custard Bun (S$5.80++ for 3 pieces). Molten salted egg yolk oozing out from freshly steamed bun; oh, how we love our liu sha bao!

Both chefs also impress with their Oven Baked Snow Skin Bun (S$5.40++ for 3 pieces). The savoury and slightly sweet char siew filling still had bits of fat intact which made it such a joy to eat, and we liked that the crust was crunchy without being overly greasy.

Presenting one of their new and stellar creations is the Steamed Mushroom Bun with Black Truffle (S$5.80++ for 3 pieces). Made to look like a literal mushroom (stalk included), this adorable bun is packed full of diced up mushrooms with a sauce made with truffles. If you love mushrooms, this savoury treat will most definitely leave an impression.

For reservations and dining enquiries, call +65 6521 9299 or email song.garden@accor.com.

Song Garden
122 Middle Road
Mercure Singapore Bugis
Singapore 188973
Nearest Station: Bugis

Weekdays
Lunch: 11.30am to 2.30pm
Dinner: 6pm to 10pm
Weekends/ Public Holiday
Lunch: 11am to 3pm
Dinner: 6pm to 10pm

This post was brought to you by Song Garden.

Ban Heng has a dim sum buffet with more than 30 dim sum items at just S$17.60++ per pax.

There is no doubt that Singaporeans take their dim sum seriously—we would source high and low for the best dim sum places in Singapore. What we love even more though, is a great deal that is easy on our pockets without compromising on the quality of the dim sum.

Originally at S$22.80++ per pax (inclusive of S$2 charge for Chinese tea, pickles & towels), Ban Heng has a current promotion of one dines free with every three paying adults. This works out to be only S$17.60++ per person! Yes, you can go for this awesome deal when you visit any of the five Ban Heng restaurants in Singapore during weekday lunch hours.

Here is why you should not miss out on this incredible dim sum deal at Ban Heng.

BAN HENG DIM SUM LUNCH BUFFET

At Ban Heng, there are more than 15 deep-fried dim sum items for you to chose from. We had a hard time deciding what we want from the myriad of choices but we sure aren’t complaining!

Our favourite of the lot goes to the Deep-Fried Shrimp Dumplings. The plump shrimp encased in a crispy shell was so addictive that one plate was not enough for us to share. If you are a fan of shrimps, be sure to get more of this because it is THE BOMB.

Another dim sum dish not to be missed at Ban Heng is the Barbecued Char Siew Pastry with Sesame. This is a timeless classic and we enjoyed the flaky pastry puff roll filled with juicy and tender barbecued pork.

Some other deep-fried dim sum you must try include the Deep-Fried Beancurd Skin, Paper Wrapped Chicken Wings and Baked Mini Egg Tarts. Do note that Egg Tarts are limited to one serving for weekdays only.

Those who prefer steamed dim sum can look forward to a wide selection which will not disappoint your taste buds. These freshly steamed dim sum are little parcels of happiness and were all served piping hot to us.

No dim sum buffet is complete without Steamed Shanghai Meat Dumplings, or more commonly referred to as ‘Xiao Long Bao’. Slurp up the warm broth that bursts out from thin dumpling skins before indulging in the delicious meat!

The Steamed Pork Ribs With Minced Meat may look unassuming, but trust us when we say that it was one of the best dim sum dishes. It was the fragrant black bean sauce which really hit all the right spots for us and gave the steamed pork ribs an extra oomph.

Yes, we know that you are waiting for us to talk about the Steamed Salted Egg Yolk “Liu Sha” Bun. And yes, it definitely lived up to our expectations when the custard lava exploded out upon giving the bun a slight tear. Remember to whip out your phones for that Boomerang video!

If you are looking for alternatives, try the Steamed Siew Mai With Crab Roes, Shrimp Chang Fun, Steamed Shrimp & Water Chestnut Wanton… and the list goes on.

BAN HENG SEAFOOD BUFFET (LUNCH AND DINNER)

Beyond the dim sum buffet, Ban Heng also offers an all-you-can-eat seafood buffet which features Singaporeans’ favourite Chilli Crab, Cold Crab, Steamed Soon Hock and more.

Similar to the dim sum buffet deal, one adult dines free with every three paying adults! With that promotion, Ban Heng’s Seafood Buffet is only S$25.10++ per person instead of the regular price of S$32.80++ per pax (inclusive of S$2 charge for Chinese tea, pickles & towels).

Under the Chef’s Recommendation category, diners will find the best recipes Ban Heng has to offer. These premium items are limited to one serving per dish.

Crabs come in three different flavours—Chilli, Cold and Black Pepper. Ban Heng’s rendition of Chilli Crab is one that will delight all spicy food lovers. While other chilli crab recipes outside tend to be sweeter, this one is considerably spicier and it should impress you.

Ban Heng has also introduced the popular Teochew-style Cold Crabs to its seafood buffet menu since 01 Aug 2017. Nothing fanciful about these crabs, but that is precisely the essence of Teochew Cold Crabs—chilled, fresh crabs that is so sweet with every bite. And oh, that roe. Look at those roe. Every piece comes with an insane amount of rich and creamy roe—the prized part of Teochew Cold Crabs. Who cares about cholesterol?

Ban Heng’s seafood buffet also includes the classic Steamed Soon Hock Fish with Soya Sauce. Served piping hot from the kitchen, the steamed fish was extremely moist and fresh and the flavours were elevated with premium soya sauce.

Of course, we must give special mention to the Barbecued Crispy Duck under the Roasted Meat category too. Kudos to the chefs for roasting the duck so well that the crispy skin was in a glorious dark brown shade. The duck meat had a good layer of fats which added extra flavours to the succulent duck meat.

Diners can also expect other dishes including Shark’s Fin Soup with Crabmeat, Wok Fried Prawns with Cereal, Braised Slice Goose Meat in Teochew Style, Barbecued Pork with Honey and Chilled Prawn with Special Thai Sauce.

Dim Sum Buffet Lunch (A La Carte Prices)
Mon to Fri: Adult S$20.80++*, Child S$13.80++
Sat, Sun & Eve of PH: Adult S$23.80++, Child S$13.80++
PH: Adult S$25.80++, Child S$13.80++

*One dines free with every three paying adults.

Seafood Buffet Lunch & Dinner (A La Carte Prices)
Mon to Fri: Adult S$30.80++*, Child S$13.80++
Sat, Sun & Eve of PH: Adult S$33.80++, Child S$13.80++
PH: Adult S$35.80++, Child S$13.80++

*One dines free with every three paying adults.

Chinese tea, pickles and towels are chargeable at S$2 per pax.

Ban Heng @ HarbourFront Centre
1 Maritime Square
#04-01, HarbourFront Centre
Singapore 099253
Tel: +65 6278 0288 / +65 6278 1354
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

Ban Heng @ The Cathay
2 Handy Road
#02-01 The Cathay
Singapore 229233
Tel: +65 6732 7888 / +65 6732 6623
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station : Dhoby Ghaut

Ban Heng @ Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road
#11-01/02 Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6238 1516 /  +656238 7816
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

Ban Heng @ Pasir Ris
60 Pasir Ris Drive 3
Singapore 519497
Tel: +65 6585 1770 / +65 6585 1093
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris

Ban Heng @ Boon Keng
Blk 22 Boon Keng Road #01-21
Singapore 330022
Tel: +65 6291 0407 / +65 6298 5285
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station : Boon Keng

This post is brought to you by Ban Heng Group.

The official opening of the long-awaited National Gallery Singapore saw the opening of several stellar dining establishments, and Yàn is one of the gastronomic destinations that every epicurean should make a special trip to.

154-seater Yàn is a beautiful Cantonese restaurant that sits on the fifth floor of the stunning museum, and we are completely in love with the restaurant’s chinoiserie-chic vibes and menu of elegant Cantonese cuisine.

A new Chinese gourmet star has emerged in Singapore’s City Hall district and we have to share with you the dining highlights of our meal at Yàn. From Crispy Roast Suckling Pig, Double-boiled Chicken Soup to Dim Sum Platter, here are 9 Dishes We Love From Yàn.

Quote “ladyironchef” to get 10% off your bill at Yàn from now till 30 June 2016 (the promotion is valid every day for both lunch and dinner.

#1 DOUBLE-BOILED CHICKEN SOUP

No better way to start your meal than with the Double-boiled Chicken Soup (S$22++ per person). Unlike traditional herbal soups that are served in ceramics, Yàn’s rendition of the chicken broth is interestingly served in a young coconut and with crispy breadstick on the side.

Dig in and you will discover a few clams, dried longans and goji berries. The overall taste profile is light and aromatic with a lingering aftertaste of fresh coconut flesh. It is one chicken broth that we won’t soon forget.

#2 CRISPY ROAST SUCKLING PIG

Yàn’s signature Crispy Roast Suckling Pig (half – S$124++, whole – S$248++) requires an advanced ordering a day prior to your visit, but the lusciously crispy skin will be worth the effort.

Imagine sinking your teeth into fragrant crispy pork skin complemented with pancake, carved suckling pig’s shoulder and a tender pig fillet oven-baked with lemongrass… We are certain that you will love it.

#3 PAN-FRIED CRAB MEAT WITH EGG WHITE

A recommendation by the chef was the Pan-fried Crab Meat with Egg White (S$12++ per person), and we sure loved it. The hearty dish features braised duo vermicelli tossed served with crabmeat, beansprouts and golden pumpkin sauce. Grab a spoonful of the de-shelled crustacean mixture, wrap it with a green lettuce and you are good to go.

#4 ROAST BARBECUE DELIGHTS

Roasts are synonymous with Cantonese cuisine, and Yàn showcases an impressive selection of mouthwatering roast delights – such as Barbecue Honey Pork (from S$18++), Peking Duck (half – S$40++, whole – S$80++), Roast Crispy Chicken (medium – S$23++, large – S$46++), Roast Duck (from S$20++), Roast Pork Belly (S$14++ per serving) and Soya Chicken (from S$18++).

Can’t make up your mind? We couldn’t too, that was why we went for the Barbecue Combination Platter (from S$22++).

#5 FRIED LIVE PRAWN WITH CRISPY NOODLE BALL

Master Chef Chan Kung Lai – with over two decaades of culinary experience – has successfully nailed the haute Cantonese cuisine with his gorgeous creation of Fried Live Prawn with Crispy Noodle Ball (S$12++ per person).

The seafood dish itself is an art; diners are supposed to pour piping hot broth over the deep-fried ball of crispy noodles, and the end result is a partial-crisp-and-partial-soft texture. Served with delicate sweet prawns, it is one light dish that is seemingly simple, but it will leave you craving for more with its light sweetness from the broth.

#6 PAN-FRIED CHILLI CRAB MEAT BUN

Ever wondered what a cross between Cantonese fare and Singaporean cuisine would look like? Well, the answer is right here.

Yàn has pushed all boundaries and surprised us with their newest dim sum creation – the Pan-Fried Chilli Crab Meat bun (S$9++ / 3 pieces). Think generous amounts of our national dish Chilli Crab stuffed in tasty wok-fried buns. It is akin to eating chilli crab the usual way, with our mantous and all, but this packs a different punch with the bun’s fragrance and slight oiliness, complete with sesame seeds no less.

#7 DEEP-FRIED CUSTARD BUN FILLED WITH SALTED EGG YOLK

We are unabashedly ashamed of being hopelessly obsessed with custard buns, or better known as liu sha bao. In fact, we are on an eternal pursuit to hunt for the best in town, and with this meal, Yàn has made the cut to our top few.

Yes, Yàn has seriously taken these awesome salted egg yolk buns to a whole new level. These buns are deep-fried, yet successfully retained its lava fluidity. We admittedly took a long time to photograph these treats – so imagine our surprise that the yummy lava was still flowy when we finally tucked in. Thumbs up, Yàn! We will be coming back for more of these!

#8 HOT ALMOND CREAM

Hot Almond Cream is a classic and timeless Chinese dessert – made from almond and rice – that instantly warms our hearts. Head Chef Chan Kung Lai is born and raised in Hong Kong, which is no surprise there on why the sweet treat tastes authentically Cantonese.

No frills about the cream, really. Just finely pounded almond to create the smoothest almond cream with equal consistency and at just the right degree of sweetness.

#9 DIM SUM COMBINATION PLATTER

Yàn does an excellent job in injecting new elements of surprises in its presentation of dishes, but without compromising on the key essences of authentic Cantonese recipes.

The Dim Sum Combination Platter (S$18++) features six delicate bite-size treats – steamed black truffle prawn dumpling, steamed fish roe siew mai, steamed vegetarian dumpling, deep-fried taro dumpling, deep-fried stuffed golden mushroom and deep-fried seaweed beancurd sheet.

A great sampler if you cannot decide on which dim sum dish to order!

OMAKASE AT YOUR PREFERRED BUDGET

Yàn is one place that is suitable for every occasion thinkable, from anniversary celebrations to birthday parties, business luncheons and family meals.

Private rooms are also available for booking, and omakase meals are an option should you be in the mood for some surprises. And what we love most about the omakase option is that you get to dine at your own budget.

Just let the chef know your budget, and he will customise a multi-course meal for you. Regardless of your budget, he will try his best to incorporate Yàn’s signatures so that you have a true taste of what the team is proud of and known for. Now, that’s one omakase that wouldn’t have you feeling ripped off.

As mentioned earlier, quote “ladyironchef” upon reservations/  billing to get 10% off your bill at Yàn from now till 30 June 2016 (the promotion is valid every day for both lunch and dinner.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

Yàn
1 St. Andrew’s Road, #05-02
National Gallery Singapore
Singapore 178957
Reservations: +65 63845585 / reserve@yan.com.sg
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat and Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

This post is brought to you by Yàn.

Mitzo, one of our all-time favourite Chinese restaurants in town, introduces a Weekend Brunch of Sexy Chinese Fare, and we are gonna get you excited.

It is hard to come by such sexy-looking and intricately-plated authentic Cantonese dishes like the ones at Mitzo Restaurant & Bar, and this recently introduced Weekend Brunch option (also available on public holidays) will have you enjoy as many of their best-selling signature items and other exclusive dishes as you want – yes, free-flow! Yipe, this includes their heavenly Char Siew Pork. For S$68++, this a la carte buffet includes over 40 dishes. And trust us when we say they are most photogenic.

For the month of November and December 2015, readers of Ladyironchef can get 15% discount when you dine at Mitzo for the Weekend Brunch. Simply flash this advertorial upon payment, and 15% will be deducted from the cover charge.

If you are tired of typical buffet fare, then it is high time you pay Mitzo a visit and allow yourself to be surprised. Here is what you can expect from Mitzo’s Weekend Brunch.

GREAT DIM SUM OPTIONS

Big fan of dim sum here, and with 13 varieties to choose from in the weekend brunch menu, it is some serious pigging out here. Just the dumplings selection alone got us excited, and we love the Crystal Vegetable Dumplings, Poached Dumpling in Sichuan Sauce and the Deep-Fried Shrimp Dumpling.

The Poached Dumpling that is drizzled over with Sichuan sauce (or better known as chao shou) was a surprise favourite and we loved the intensity of the flavours in the sauce and the added kick from the red-cut chilli. Also, don’t be fooled by the lacklustre name – Crystal Vegetable Dumplings – because it is actually one of the dim sum options that we would gladly have second helpings of! That strong truffle taste is unforgettable.

THE MUST-TRY DIM SUM AT MITZO – BLACK CUSTARD BUN

The photo says it all. This stunner of a charcoal custard bun is decorated luxuriously with edible gold lychee liqueur on top; sure is an immediate eye-catcher. It is hard to beat this dim sum dish and we don’t want to call favourites, but the subtle taste of smoky charcoal blended well with the creamy, flowy salted egg yolk goodness that we were temporarily distracted and ignoring other dishes on the table.

PREMIUM ‘MAIN COURSE’ ITEMS

Do not overlook the main courses because some of them really exceeded our expectations. You have to dive right for the Wasabi-infused Baked Fish. The wasabi taste was not overwhelming, which we appreciate. Also, the fish itself is so perfectly cooked with a glistening centre.

Some other dishes that really won our hearts include the Stir-Fried Beef Cubes with Onion. So tender, it fell apart as we bit into it. More beef? Mitzo’s take on a steak with the Pan-fried Ribeye in Wasabi and Korean Chilli Sauce is worth trying too. Did we mention that this ribeye was extremely tender too? As avid meat-lovers, we were sold.

FREE-FLOW MELT-IN-YOUR-MOUTH CHAR SIEW

Usually S$18 a pop, this plate of char siew at Mitzo is a crowd-favourite and has been dubbed by some as the best char siew in the universe. Not even kidding here, because we could eat them every day! For Sunday Brunch, this bad boy is free-flow.

Melt-in-the-mouth center, tender meat with the right amount of fats, and an impeccably caramelised exterior, the balance of flavours and textures of this sweet meat makes this the best representative of Mitzo, and one that we will always return for.

Well, well. There are few times in life when we got excited about the word ‘free flow’, and this is one of them. We are not ashamed to say that we can eat (at least) two plates each.

TABLE-SIDE SERVICE – CRACKLING PORK BELLY BAO

You might already be distracted by the many dishes to try, but have a go at the weekend brunch’s signature Crackling Roasted Pork Belly Bao. Because braised meat buns might be too mainstream for you, so the chef will go to your table and prep a new-age bun for you.

But they aren’t too far away from what we know of Cantonese food, really. Think amazingly crispy roasted pork belly stuffed in pillowy steamed buns. There you have it.

NOT TO BE MISSED RICE & NOODLES SECTION

Don’t be quick to write this section off. We know your dining partners might scoff that you’re piling up on carbs at a buffet, but the Braised Truffle Udon was so good, we wanted to have another serving! The truffle aroma and taste was extremely distinct and it really elevated a seemingly one-dimensional dish.

Also, the Fried Rice with egg, char siew (yes, the same glorious one) and vegetable had us glowing with happiness at how tasty and homely it felt, bringing us back to the warmth of mom’s home-cooked food. And if you must, yes, there is ‘wok hei’ and that sealed the deal for us.

ALL YOUR FAVOURITE CHINESE DESSERTS

The Chilled Mango Cream with Sago and Pomelo Topping was a huge hit with everyone at the table with its thick consistency glided down our throats so smoothly, leaving hints of tartness from the mango.

And you see those adorable and bite-sized Pandan & Egg Tarts? You bet the custard was smooth and sweet. You can also find Double-boiled Almond Cream with Glutinous Rice Ball, and Aloe Vera with Osmanthus Jelly on the menu.

TOP-UP FOR FREE-FLOW TEA-INFUSED COCKTAILS, WINES & BEER AND A FUTURISTIC DIY COCKTAIL BAR

Yum cha at Mitzo is made even better with their curated tea-infused cocktails, in place of your traditional tea. Just top up a reasonable amount of S$50++, and you enjoy free-flow selected tea-infused cocktails, wines and beer  throughout your weekend brunch. Now that is absolutely a splendid deal! Two cocktails at a regular bar will easily cost you that amount already!

Just free flow, right? No. You get to go all hands on and DIY your own cocktails at the bar – according to whatever you like, and however much alcohol you want. Or have the   mixologist  guide you and pick up some bartending skills along the way. Or if you’re afraid you’ll make a bad drink, trust us and order the Mitzo’s classic cocktails – Shiso Mojito, from the menu

Whatever it is, party!

We have never seen a Chinese restaurant with such a kick-ass looking bar. The jellyfish tank, coupled with futuristic looking bar-top items, we were truly impressed. The bar itself is a very popular hang-out for many because of the sleekness and intimacy.

EXCLUSIVE 15% PROMOTION FOR LADYIRONCHEF’S READERS

For the month of November and December 2015, you lovely readers of Ladyironchef are entitled to a 15% discount when you dine at Mitzo for the Weekend Brunch. Simply flash this advertorial upon payment, and 15% will be deducted from the cover charge.

Do note that this discount is not applicable for alcohol add-ons, and not applicable on Christmas Day.  

Prices:
$68++ (Adult)
Add on $50++ for free flow cocktails, wines and beer
(11.30am to 2.30pm on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays)
Reservations are highly recommended.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

Mitzo
Level 4 Grand Park Orchard
270 Orchard Road
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8855
Sun to Wed, PH: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm last order
Thu to Sat,and Eve of PH: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 1am last order
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

This post is brought to you by Mitzo.

TungLok Teahouse’s roaring success at its Far East Square outlet sees the reputable brand opening another similar concept at Novena’s Square 2 – and we are definitely loving this new outlet!

For those do not know, TungLok Teahouse serves a variety of delectable dim sum throughout the day and night at an affordable price. Tunglok Teahouse understands that not everyone has the luxury of time to do a leisurely dim sum lunch in the afternoon – hence making it a point to serve dim sum even during dinnertime. Such great news, and all we can think of is dim sum all day, every day! *inserts hands-up emoji*

TungLok Teahouse is introducing a new menu of 12 exquisite dishes, including the never seen before Wild Mushroom Baos that look exactly like the fungi itself. WE LOVE IT!

[ GIVEAWAY ] We are giving away S$250 TungLok Teahouse’s dining vouchers. Leave a comment below, and share this post on your Facebook timeline to win. More details on the giveaway at the end of this post.

Upon entrance, one will not miss TungLok Teahouse’s retro décor of 1960s old-school Chinese wording posters pinned up on the colourful tiled walls. The restaurant seeks to bring the traditional dishes and yesteryears ambience back to life without compromising on comfort. Don’t we all love such retro vibes?

With so many items to choose from, diners will find themselves spoilt rotten for choice. Well, we were! And you wouldn’t believe the feast we had.

Each dim sum is freshly handmade on the spot and steamed to order – we found ourselves hopelessly drooling over the selections of sweets and savouries! The talented culinary team has introduced a few new additions to the menu and each mouthwatering dish is created with masterly finesse.

The dim sum that unquestionably stole the limelight was the Wild Mushroom with Black Truffle Baos (S$4.80++) which has an uncanny resemblance to the fungi itself. The fluffy buns looked so real that we were fooled for a while and thought they were actual mushrooms! The robust fillings are a mixture of Morel Fungus, Tea Tree Mushroom, Japanese Shiitake, King Oyster Mushrooms and Black Truffle Oil. We were blown away by how amazingly delicious they are, and as we are typing this now, we are salivating and already planning a next trip back.

Due to its overwhelming popularity and complex preparation methods, only 50 baskets of these cutesy buns are available on a daily basis, so if you snooze, you lose!

Fans of the Black Truffle are in for a treat. Besides the Mushroom Bun, they can be found in two other items - namely Wantons with Black Truffle (S$6.80++) and Deep-fried Yam Puff with Black Truffle (S$4.80++). The former is a superior soup dish with silk-like wantons filled with black truffle, while the latter is a flaky sweet pastry stuffed with yam and black truffle. We think the latter is the bomb. What say you?

Another new divine creation is the Steamed Bird’s Nest Buns (S$8.80++). The pretty orangey-coloured soft buns, filled with nourishing bird’s nest and egg white, have a nectarous aftertaste. Despite the expensive ingredients, the buns remain an affordable luxury.

We were equally in awe upon tasting the delicate Steamed Crystal Dumplings (S$4.80++) and Steamed Glutinous Rice with Diced Chicken wrapped in Lotus Leaf (S$4.80)++. We really appreciate how we are able to indulge in dim sum made with top-notch ingredients at wallet-friendly prices.

TungLok Teahouse’s Crispy Salted Egg Yolk Custard Bun (S$4.80++) are fried to a golden brown hue. The custard filling is less “flowy” in this version but its taste remains absolutely intact.

Other new impressive treats include the Fried Potato, Red Beetroot and Pumpkin Dumpling (S$5.30) and Crispy Golden Lotus Root Pastry (S$5.30++). Now, this ultra cute lotus root pastry was more than impressive! The skin was fragrant and buttery, and the lotus root was soft yet crispy; deep-fried to perfection, this is one dish that combines different textures into one brilliant creation.

If it is your first time to TungLok Teahouse, the signature Baked Barbecued Pork Bun (S$5.30++) is a must try. The baked buns filled with tepid sweet pork and BBQ sauce are undoubtedly one of the best in town.

The Traditional Sponge Cake (S$3.80++) aka Ma Lai Gao is also a must-order. The moist brown sugar sponge cake was incredibly tender and tasted heavenly, and one that our folks enjoyed.

Steamed Truffle Dumplings with Wild Fungus (S$5.30++) and ‘Cheong Fun’ Rice Rolls (S$8.50++), two of Tunglok Teahouse’s hot favourites, also made us really happy.

The steamed artisanal dumplings with everyone’s favourite element – truffle – were unbelievably succulent. The ‘Cheong Fun’ Rice Rolls is an authentic Cantonese dish of fried dough wrapped in rice noodle rolls, best served with drizzled soya sauce.

Besides Dim Sum, TungLok Teahouse also dishes out a menu of incredibly wholesome, home-style favourites. Do try their nutritious Double-Boiled Soup with Sea Whelk and Chinese Tonics (S$32++) that has been painstakingly boiled for five hours to achieve the well-balanced broth.

The aromatic Sweet and Sour Chrysanthemum Fish (S$26++) is deep-fried and boasts a crispy outer skin with flaky, fresh flesh, and served with diced capsicums.

The Fried Rice with Crab Meat and Egg White (S$22++) was also a stunner. The generous accompaniments of premium fresh crabmeat and egg white resulted in a smooth, velvety textured ambrosial dish. Who would have thought that fried rice could be so glorious?! We had no problems helping ourselves to seconds.

Remember, when your Dim Sum cravings hit you, and you’re yearning for a fuss-free, good-old home-cooked meal, just head to TungLok Teahouse.

TUNGLOK TEAHOUSE DINING VOUCHERS GIVEAWAY

1. TungLok Teahouse is giving away 5 x S$50 TungLok Teahouse dining vouchers.
2. Leave a comment in this post and tell us which dish you would like to try from TungLok Teahouse.
3. ‘Like’ TungLok Group on Facebook.
4. Share the link of this post on your Facebook timeline.
5. The contest starts from now till 20 August 2015, 2359 hrs.
6. Winners will be notified by email.

TungLok Teahouse
#01-73/79 Square 2
10 Sinaran Drive
Singapore 307506
Tel: +65 6893 1123
Nearest Station: Novena

#01-01 Far East Square
7-13 Amoy Street
Singapore 049949
Tel: +65 6877 1123
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun & PH: 10am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place/Telok Ayer

This post is brought to you by TungLok Group.

Trends come and go, our preferences in life change all the time, but for some unbeknownst reason, salted egg yolk-anything is always a favourite. We don’t know if it is solely a Singapore thing, but we are just so thankful to whoever decided to put the eggs through the brining process. Everything is better with salted egg yolk; that is just about right.

And we want to profess our love for salted egg yolk anything. Here, we have a list of Singapore’s Must-Try Salted Egg Yolk Dishes. Join us in this epicurean journey as we glorify the highly-coveted preserved egg and embrace all its goodness!

TSURAI SPICY SALTED EGG FISH SKIN

Tsurai Spicy Salted Egg Fish Skin is the newest fish skin snack in the market and quite possibly one of the best fish skin snacks in Singapore. Any time is a good time for fish skin. This is one of the best things to snack on.

The Salted Egg fish skin snack is one flavour that will please everyone, and it will never go wrong. So good, you can eat it on its own. Or use it as dunks for your steamboat! The Salted Egg flavour is slightly spicy, so the kids may want to go easy on this.

Source: Antoinette’s Facebook

ANTOINETTE PATISSERIE SALTED EGG YOLK CROISSANT

The original salted egg yolk croissant was first created by Urban Bakery Works in Hong Kong. The trend has been catching up in our region, with Antoinette joining Flavours Fling Cafe the liu sha croissant battle in Singapore.

Antoinette’s Salted Yolk Lava Croissant (S$6.50) is now available at their Penhas store from 11am. On 10 Feb, it will start to sell the croissants at the Mandarin Gallery and Sofitel So Singapore outlets at 1pm daily.

30 Penhas Road
Singapore 208188
Mon to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri: 11am – 11pm
Sat: 10am – 11pm
Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Lavender

ARBITE CAFE SALTED EGG YOLK FRIES

Fries all day, every day. All the better if they are coated with salted egg yolk sauce! Arbite dishes up a really mean serving for less than S$10, so this works really well as a sharing dish. Even better if you have it all to yourself. Huh, what sore throat?

66 Serangoon Garden Way
Singapore 555962
Tel: +65 6287 0430
Tue to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Serangoon

BEER MARKET SALTED EGG YOLK PIZZA

Strategically located at the bustling Clarke Quay, Beer Market is not your ordinary pub. Or bar. Beer Market is a place that is committed to offering a myriad of beers and a comprehensive food menu. The Salted Egg Yolk Pizza (S$21.90) has our votes. Be sure to get the sinfully good Salted Egg Yolk Wings.

#01-17 & #02-02, Clarke Quay
3B River Valley Road
Singapore 179021
Tel: +65 9661 8283
Sun to Thu (Except Mon): 6pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 6pm – 3am
Eve of PH: 6pm – 3am
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

DRURY LANE CREAMY SALTED EGG YOLK EGGS BENEDICT

Eggs Benedict is mainstream no more because the people at Drury Lane have got some tricks up their sleeves. Why, of course! Do a salted egg yolk sauce instead of the ubiquitous Hollandaise! And instead of the usual ham, you get fried bacon! We suggest you hide your weighing scale before you head down to Drury Lane.

Drury Lane
94 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088515
Tel: +65 6222 6698
Mon, Wed & Thu: 9am to 8.30pm
Fri: 9am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

FAT CAT ICE CREAM BAR CHARCOAL WAFFLES WITH SALTED EGG YOLK SAUCE

This waffle needs no introduction by now, right? Also listed in our Guide to Most Unique Waffles in Singapore, FATCAT does it right with their Charcoal Waffles with Salted Egg Yolk Sauce (S$11.50 with a scoop of premium ice cream). A real treat to combat the heat, while seeking solace in heavenly salted egg yolk sauce.

Bedok North Avenue 2
#01-25 Block 416
Singapore 460416
Tel: +65 8201 1201
Mon, Wed to Thu, Sun: 1pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 1pm -11pm
(Closed on Tue)
Nearest Station: Bedok

IMPERIAL TREASURE FINE DINING SALTED EGG YOLK SQUID

Sure, salted egg yolk squid is getting pretty ubiquitous and it is not that unreachable. But few places do their salted egg yolk dishes as well as Imperial Treasure Fine Dining. The Salted Egg Yolk Squid (S$22) is our pick, but if you are not a fan of squid, go for the Salted Egg Yolk Prawns (S$28)

Now, you have to trust us on this because we’ve been there many times and they never disappoint. Totally worth the splurge!

#L2-04, Marina Bay Sands
10 Bayfront Avenue
Singapore 018972
Tel: +65 6688 7788
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bayfront

MITZO DEEP-FRIED PRAWNS WITH SALTED EGG YOLK

If you don’t already know, Mitzo is the sexiest Chinese restaurant in town, and one that had us falling head over heels in love with with a recent visit. In its menu of delicate Cantonese dishes sits the unassuming Deep-fried Prawns with Salted Egg Yolk. A classic rendition of the local favourite; date nights just got tastier. Literally.

270 Orchard Road
Grand Park Orchard
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8855
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm to 12midnight
Nearest Station: Somerset

OPERATION DAGGER SALTED EGG YOLK COCKTAIL

Even with an address, locating the bar is a task in itself. This under-the-radar speakeasy has no signs, so keep your eyes peeled for their logo scrawled on the wall. And when you finally find them, treat yourself to a Salted Egg Yolk Cocktail (S$25)!

7 Ann Siang Hill
Singapore 069791
Tel: +65 9296 4704
Tue to Sat: 6pm to 12am
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

NO SIGNBOARD SALTED EGG YOLK CRAB

No Signboard is a stalwart in Singapore. Famed for their seafood, No Signboard is the place to bring your overseas guests to for a truly local-style indulgent, and please do not do that without ordering the Salted Egg Yolk Crab, ok?

414 Geylang Road
Singapore 389392
Tel: +65 6842 3415
Daily: 12pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Aljunied

SIN LEE FOODS SWEET POTATO FRIES WITH SALTED EGG YOLK SAUCE

This retro-themed cafe has been getting quite a bit of attention for their concise but impressive menu. Don’t expect your typical cafe fare; you won’t get it there. But their creations are worth the trip down, especially their famous Sweet Potato Fries with Salted Egg Yolk Sauce.

4 Jalan Bukit Ho Swee
Singapore 162004
Tel: +65 6377 3170
Tue to Fri: 11am – 9pm
Sat: 9.30am – 9pm
Sun: 9.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

SINPOPO SALTED EGG YOLK COOKIES

Sinpopo’s Prosperity Hamper (S$88) will include 1 Gula Melaka Cake (5×5?), 2 bottles of Sinpopo Sugee Biscuit and 2 bottles of the Salted Egg Yolk Cookies - with 8 Mandarin oranges to complete, no less.

The Salted Egg Yolk Cookies are Sinpopo’s newest creation and they combine the best in a butter cookie with the much loved fragrance of salted egg yolk and curry leaves.

458 Joo Chiat Rd
Singapore 427671
Tel: +65 6345 5034
Tue to Thu, Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Dakota

TASTE GOOD SALTED EGG YOLK CHICKEN

Taste Good at Sim Lim Square does a salted egg yolk chicken that is served with a fried egg atop rice. Every bite had us falling in love, and the richness and creaminess of the salted egg yolk that combines with the crispiness of the chicken is totally to die for.

Sim Lim Square #02-04
Singapore 188504
Tel: +65 6336 6298
Nearest Station: Bugis

TART BLANC SALTED EGG YOLK TART

This cute little patisserie that specialises in tarts deserves a huge shout-out. Sitting inside Millenia Walk, Tart Blanc is a real gem. The tarts are baked fresh daily, and there are different surprises every day. Of course, if you see the Salted Egg Yolk Tart (S7.50), you know that is the one to go for.

Millenia Walk #01-102
9 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039596
Tel: +65 6238 6893
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall/Promenade

THE REFINERY SALTED EGG YOLK ONION RINGS

The Refinery’s Salted Egg Yolk Onion Rings had us at hello. Thick cuts of onions coated with beer batter, deep fried, then lavishly coated with salted egg yolk sauce… no, you better taste it for yourself and enlighten us – what adjective is better than ‘best’?

115 King George’s Avenue #01-02
Singapore 208561
Tel: +65 6293 1204
Tue to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 12midnight
Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 1am
Sat: 11am – 4pm, 6pm – 1am
Sun: 11am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Lavender

TIAN WAI TIAN SALTED EGG YOLK PORK RIBS

This unassuming eatery is ever crowded. Well-loved for their fish head steamboat, a meal here is local-like and fuss-free, but most comforting. And we need you to know this – they serve the best Salted Egg Yolk Pork Ribs (S$10) in Singapore. Absolutely nothing beats this!

1383 Serangoon Road
Singapore 328254
Tel: +65 9172 2833
Mon to Fri: 11am – 2pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Boon Keng/Potong Pasir

TOM PALATE SALTED EGG YOLK ICE CREAM

At Tom’s Palette, all ice cream are made in-house with less cream, sugar and less air beaten in for a richer taste. Having the Salted Egg Yolk Ice Cream (S$3.20) is like eating spoonfuls of smooth salted egg yolk custard, with textures similar to that of Italian gelato.

Tom’s Palette
Shaw Towers
100 Beach Road
Singapore 189702
Tel: +65 6296 5239
Mon to Thurs: 12pm – 9:30pm
Fri to Sat: 12pm – 10pm
Sun: 1pm – 7pm (Closed on the last Sunday of the month)
Nearest MRT: Bugis

TUNGLOK SIGNATURE SALTED EGG YOLK FISH SKIN

We always love a good dim sum meal at TungLok Signatures, but apart from the regular suspects, we need to have a serving of this Crispy Fish Skin with Salted Egg Yolk (S$10) on our table. Better than potato chips, this has us munching non-stop!

1 Harbourfront Walk, VivoCity #01-57
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 6376 9555
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun & Public Holidays: 11am – 3.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

TWENTY GRAMMES CHARCOAL WAFFLES WITH HOMEMADE SALTED EGG YOLK SAUCE

Besides Fatcat Ice Cream Bar, another place that you should try is Twenty Grammes. The Charcoal Waffle (S$8.50) at Twenty Grammes was definitely on point. The crisp outer layer, coupled with the addition of an ultra-rich and slightly thicker salted egg yolk sauce, is such a divine combination. The sauce is served in a huge and generous pot and we could not have been delighted and satisfied. It is an additional S$3.50 for one scoop of ice cream on top and S$6.50 for two.

753 North Bridge Road
#01-01
Singapore 198721
Tel: +65 6717 1733
Mon to Thu, Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Bugis

7KICKSTART LIU SHA FRENCH TOAST

7Kickstart Cafe at the Singapore Art Museum has been gaining popularity for its Liu Sha French Toast (S$13). The generous portion of salted egg yolk sauce was divine; creamy and savoury, with that slight hint of sweetness.

71 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189555
Tel: +65 8389 7877
Mon & Tue: 8am – 8pm
Wed to Fri: 8am – 10pm
Sat: 10am – 8pm
Sun: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Bras Basah

If we could only pick a kind of dim sum to live on, it would most definitely be the Salted Egg Yolk Custard Bun. More commonly and affectionately known as liu sha bao, this steamed bun with a flowy center is such a crowd-pleaser.

Like a molten lava cake with a chocolate oozing out, the liu sha bao is a Chinese version in the form of a bun. And what lies beneath that seemingly innocent steamed white bun is an explosion of sweet custard and savoury salted egg yolk. Served fresh from the steamer, piping hot and oozing with flowy goodness; who says money can’t buy happiness?

And because we know so many of you share the same love for Salted Egg Yolk Custard buns, we are going to share with you 16 Unbelievable Salted Egg Yolk Custard Buns (Liu Sha Bao) in Singapore.

A tip for you: do not step on the weighing scale after indulging.

#1 ASIA GRAND CHINESE RESTAURANT

Despite the tough competition in Singapore’s food scene, Asia Grand at Odeon Tower remains one of the go-to places for businessmen to entertain their clients, as well as families to have their weekend yum cha. The place is not fancy, but the food is always of high standards.

And of course, how can you go to Asia Grand and not try their liu sha bao?

331 North Bridge Road
Odeon Tower
Tel: +65 6887 0010
Mon to Sat: 10.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 10am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

#2 CRYSTAL JADE GOLDEN PALACE

An all-time favourite place to go to for custard buns is Crystal Jade Golden Palace. We love its regal decor, and the ever bustling crowd makes it even more atmospheric to enjoy our dim sum.

Apart from the usual repertoire of delicate dim sum, we love a steamy hot basket of custard bun. The ones here are orange in colour, because the skin is infused with carrot juice. Certainly a sweet treat that we always look forward to on weekends!

290 Orchard Road
#05-22 The Paragon
Tel: +65 6734 6866
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sat: 11am – 3pm, 6.00pm – 11pm
Sun & PH: 10.30am – 3.00pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#3 IMPERIAL TREASURE FINE CHINESE CUISINE

The Imperial Treasure name is synonymous with high quality and exquisitely fine Chinese food. The prices may be steep, but the premium ingredients and impeccable service make a meal at Imperial Treasure’s flagship outlet at Marina Bay Sands to-die-for. We really love it there, and of course, it is also because we are such huge fans of their custard buns.

Honestly, we can finish a basket each. The ones here never fail.

#L2-04, Marina Bay Sands
10 Bayfront Avenue
Tel: +65 6688 7788
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bayfront

#4 JIANG-NAN CHUN

Jiang-Nan Chun at Four Seasons Singapore is known for serving classic Cantonese cuisine in a luxurious setting. While we really have nothing to nitpick on everything on the dim sum menu, our favourite to order when dining at Jiang-Nan Chun is, without a doubt, the Custard Buns with salted egg yolk.

190 Orchard Boulevard
Four Seasons Hotel
Tel: +65 6831 7220
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 11am – 1pm, 1.30pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#5 MAN FU YUAN

There are many Cantonese restaurants in Singapore, but Man Fu Yuan at Intercontinental Singapore stands out for offering a unique tea pairing service. Here, you can enjoy a range of Chinese tea to go along with the signature dishes and dim sum.

Fans of custard bun will be happy to know that Man Fu Yuan serves two kinds of custard bun ($12 for 6) – deep fried and steamed. While deep fried custard buns sounds like quite a novelty, we still prefer the good ol’ classic steamed ones.

80 Middle Road
2F Intercontinental Hotel
Tel: +65 6825 1062
Mon to Sat: 11.45am – 3.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 11am – 3.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#6 MIN JIANG

This egg custard bun took a spin around the sleek block and got itself a cool new look. Of course, the charcoal does not add much to the bun’s taste, but we can all agree that it looks better than before. Breaking open this bun is just like opening a treasure chest of liquid gold.

Rochester Park, 5 Rochester Park
Singapore 139216?
Tel: +65 6774 0122
Daily: 11am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista/One-North

#7 MITZO RESTAURANT & BAR

The photo says it all. This stunner of a charcoal custard bun is decorated luxuriously with edible gold lychee liqueur on top; sure is an immediate eye-catcher. It is hard to beat this dim sum dish and we don’t want to call favourites, but the subtle taste of smoky charcoal blended well with the creamy, flowy salted egg yolk goodness

Level 4 Grand Park Orchard
270 Orchard Road
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8855
Sun to Wed, PH: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm last order
Thu to Sat,and Eve of PH: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 1am last order
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

#8 PEACH GARDEN

This should go without saying, but we will reiterate the obvious – Peach Garden has one of the best custard buns ($4.20) in Singapore. Sure, there are many other dishes to love here, such as its X.O Carrot Cake and Wasabi Prawns, but no one leaves Peach Garden without ordering their custard buns. Period.

65 Chulia Street
#33-01 OCBC Centre
Tel: +65 6535 7833
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sun & PH: 10.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

#9 ROYAL CHINA

Royal China is a well-established Chinese restaurant group in London, and its outpost in Singapore at Raffles Hotel is a stunning restaurant with tiffany-blue decor that serves excellent Chinese food.

Another perennial favourite is Royal China’s divine rendition. Generously stuffed with flowy salted egg yolk custard goodness, the liu sha bao here are ever satisfying and ever delighting. But of course, when at Royal China, do a dim sum feast. It is a perfect place for families and couples to gather at.

1 Beach Road
#03-09 Raffles Hotel
Tel: +65 6338 3363
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun & PH: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

#10 TASTE PARADISE

Whenever we find ourselves at Ion Orchard, we crave for custard buns. Don’t ask us why; it’s uncanny but it always happens. Perhaps, because our minds tells us that Taste Paradise is there in the mall, and our bodies conspire to stir up that craving in us.

Yes, we love the goddamn salted egg yolk custard buns at Taste Paradise.

2 Orchard Turn
Tel: +65 65 6509 9660
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#11 TUNGLOK TEAHOUSE

Tunglok Teahouse’s Crispy Salted Egg Yolk Custard Bun (S$4.80++) are fried to a golden brown hue and while they do not have a high lava content, its tastiness remains intact.

#01-73/79 Square 2
10 Sinaran Drive
Singapore 307506
Tel: +65 6893 1123
Nearest Station: Novena

#12 WAH LOK CANTONESE RESTAURANT

On top of the usual Steamed Custard & Egg Yolk Bun (S$4.80), Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant also has a slightly different rendition – a Baked Custard Bun (S$4.40). It is like the baked BBQ pork bun, but this is with warm custard.

Just one thing to note, this is not like the typical Liu Sha Bao which comes with molten custard. If you prefer those, go for the aforementioned Steamed Custard Bun.

Level 2 Carlton Hotel Singapore
76 Bras Basah Road
Tel: +65 6311 8188
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun & PH: 11am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

#13 WAN HAO CHINESE RESTAURANT

With doors opened since 1995, Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant is one of luxurious Chinese restaurants along Orchard Road that serves classic Cantonese delicacies. It sits within Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel, and its accessibility and ambience makes it an ideal destination for a family meal, business luncheon or a centralised gathering spot.

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant serves an assortment of dim sum during lunch, but the one that you must try is the Steamed Rainbow Egg Custard Bun (S$3.50 for 2 pcs). Now, don’t let the name confused you. While there is nothing rainbow-y about Wan Hao’s Custard Bun, it is still top notch quality – you won’t be disappointed by it.

320 Orchard Road
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
Tel: +65 6831 4605
Mon to Fri: 12pm to 3pm, 6.30pm to 10.30pm
Sat, Sun and PH: 11.30am – 3pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#14 XIN CUISINE CHINESE RESTAURANT

While Xin Cuisine may not be the most stylish Chinese restaurant around, we love coming here because it is relatively quiet and it is one of those places that always upkeeps its consistency; a meal here will never disappoint.

The dim sum menu is available daily, and on Sundays, there is an additional specials’ menu. But whatever day you are popping by at Xin Cuisine, you should order the liu sha bao because the skin of the bun is so airy and thin, and the filling explodes with a strong tinge of salted egg yolk goodness.

#04-00 Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium
317 Outram Road
Tel: +65 6731 7173
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 10.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Outram

#15 YAN TING

The luxurious St Regis Singapore has no lack of good restaurants, and we have been fans of Yan Ting for years. The Chinese restaurant is classy and exudes a note of understated elegance. Prices are slightly steeper, but for its fine food, we’ll never say no.

If you are planning to have a dim sum brunch at Yan Ting on the weekends, reservations are highly recommended. And when doing so, you may want to get the kitchen to reserve a serving (or two) of the liu sha bao. They are so good that they often sell out fast!

29 Tanglin Road
The St. Regis Singapore
Tel: +65 6506 6887
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

For more recommendations, read our guide to Singapore’s top 30 Chinese restaurants. 

Xin Cuisine at Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium may not be the fanciest Chinese restaurant around, neither does it have a lavishly posh interior to boast. But you know what? We love Xin Cuisine; always have, always will.

Xin Cuisine has a steady following accumulated over the decades, and if you’ve dined there before, you would know how they never disappoint. As for us, we enjoy its relatively quiet environment and how the chefs always upkeep the consistency of the food. No efforts are spared in putting the most tantalizing dishes on your table for your enjoyment.

Whether it is a gathering with family and friends, corporate luncheon with your esteemed business partners, or simply a quiet dinner with your loved one, a meal at Xin Cuisine will be ideal.

There are many dishes to fall in love with, and today, we share with you every reason to love Xin Cuisine. Here are the highlights of our meal.

For the month of May, quote ladyironchef or flash this post on your mobile to get 15% discount off Xin Cuisine’s ala carte menu.

[ Giveaway ] We are giving away 4 X S$50 Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant dining vouchers. Leave a comment below, and share this post on your Facebook timeline to win. More details on the giveaway at the end of this post.

BARBECUED SUCKLING PIG WITH FOIE GRAS, YAM AND JAPANESE CUCUMBER

And this, our friends… this is the bomb! We started our meal with this dish that combines all our favourites into one. Can you imagine the distinct textures of crispy crackling, chewy fats and creamy foie gras altogether? Once you’ve tried this dish, you will never look at suckling pig the same way again. Who would have thought that suckling pig and foie gras would go so well together? But then again, everything tastes better when you add foie gras in it.

For S$35 per portion, it may seem expensive, but think of all the premiums you’re gonna get on one plate. An indulgent treat that will be worth your while, we’d say.

CHEF’S SPECIAL TOMATO SOUP WITH LOTUS SEED

Nothing like the usual Western-style tomato soup that we are all too familiar with. Xin Cuisine’s rendition remains very skewed for Asian palettes, and the Chef’s Special Tomato Soup with Lotus Seed (S$10 per portion) is a creative vegetarian option for those who are seeking a light taste. Nourishing with a tinge of tanginess, this signature soup is boiled over low heat for long hours to produce that natural thickness. This makes a lovely soup dish to whet your appetite.

PAN-FRIED LAMB CHOP AND THREE MUSHROOMS WITH POMMERY MUSTARD SAUCE

There are not many Chinese restaurants in Singapore who do lamb meat well, and we happened to be craving for lamb that evening at Xin Cuisine. Oh God, when the chef presented this Pan-fried Lamb Chop and Three Mushrooms with Pommery Mustard Sauce (S$15 per portion) dish, our eyes lit up and our hearts skipped a beat.

The mustard sauce cuts through the meat so well that there was almost no taste of gaminess. And it is served with lovely onion ring that is homemade with big and fresh onions.

BARBECUED PORK RIB WITH SPECIAL PLUM SAUCE

If lamb is not your thing, try the Barbecued Pork Rib with Special Plum Sauce (S$12 per portion). Also classified as the chef’s signature, we enjoyed the tender pork rib. Plum sauce is just about the perfect complement, and it has a faint spicy note on the aftertaste. We can totally understand why this dish is so popular!

HOME-STYLE ROAST DUCK WITH TEA LEAVES

Chinese roast duck is always a good idea, right? Especially so if it is roasted with tea leaves! That unique fragrance with a woody note will definitely tug your heartstrings, and it is indeed “home-style” – comforting with a touch of elegance. It comes in either a half portion (S$28) or a whole duck (S$52).

BAKED SEA PERCH WITH JAPANESE MISO SAUCE

If we had to pick a single favourite from the entire menu, the Baked Sea Perch with Japanese Miso Sauce (S$16 per portion) is definitely it. A generous slab of sea perch that is baked fresh with no marination or anything funny to change its taste, this is one hearty fish dish that had us scrambling for adjectives to describe it.

We don’t even think ‘heavenly’ is befitting enough! And that Japanese miso sauce that goes with the fish? Yipe, salty yet light; more than perfect.

FRIED FRAGRANT AND BROWN RICE SERVED IN STONE CASSEROLE

Fried Fragrant and Brown Rice with Roasted Pork, Diced Shrimp, Dried Scallop, Peanut and Raisin, served in Stone Casserole. Boy, that was quite a mouthful! But it also means there are heaps of goodness in that stone casserole! It is not your ordinary carbs dish; it is a carbs dish that is earthy, so flavourful, and it will be worth the calorie count. Good for sharing, and it comes in three sizes – S$20 for the small, S$30 for the medium, and S$40 for the large.

BRAISED LIVE LOBSTER EE-FU NOODLE

The Lobster Noodle is nothing fancy; just well-cooked noodles paired with lobster. At S$22 per portion, it is an absolute steal for a decadent bowl of happiness. And you read that right; live lobsters mean you get nothing but the freshest treasure of the sea.

DIM SUM

Dim Sum is another reason why you should head to Xin Cuisine. Most of the dim sum are reasonably priced at S$4.50 per basket. The dim sum menu is available daily, and on Sundays and Public Holidays, the menu features additional items.

The classic offerings – including Siew Mai, Xiaolongbao, Har Gau – are all nicely executed, but if you are there for yum cha with your family on Sundays, you can look forward to other noteworthy creations that include Steamed Melon Ring with Shrimp, Pork Paste in Abalone Sauce (S$4.50 for 3 pcs), Steamed Cuttlefish with Spicy Sauce (S$4.50), Baked Chocolate and Custard Bun ($ 6.00 for 3 pcs) and Deep-fried Bacon and Crab Claw with Salad Sauce ($9.00 for 3 pcs).

Chock full of liquid gold, Xin Cuisine’s Custard Bun gets our vote. The skin of the bun is so airy and thin, and the filling explodes with a strong tinge of salted egg yolk goodness.

Need to sin more? The Roast Pork was SO. BLOODY. DIVINE. It is miraculous how our minds caved in to the sin and we just ate away – a piece after another, without a care in the world, like diet didn’t matter anymore.

CHILLED MANGO COULIS AND HASHIMA SERVED IN MINI PUMPKIN

This pretty little dessert (S$15 per portion) shall pamper you with some sweetness and to “cleanse your palate” after all that savoury moments. It is a chef’s signature, and an evergreen favourite among regulars. Well, it is ours too!

FRIED SESAME BALL WITH RED BEAN AND LIQUEUR CHOCOLATE FILLING

Beyond the ubiquitous Mango Sago and Mango Pudding, Xin Cuisine presents the Fried Sesame Ball with Red Bean (S$8 per portion of 4pcs). It looks like the usual fried Chinese pastry that you get at most Chinese restaurants. However, tear apart the sesame ball and you will find liqueur chocolate filling oozing out. How’s that for a Chinese dessert? Sheer brilliance.

As mentioned at the start, remember to quote ladyironchef or flash this post on your mobile to get 15% discount off Xin Cuisine’s ala carte menu during the month of May,

XIN CUISINE CHINESE RESTAURANT GIVEAWAY

1. Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant is giving away 4 X S$50 dining vouchers.
2. Leave a comment in this post to tell us which dish you would like to try at Xin Cuisine, and why we should choose you.
3. ‘Like’ Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium on Facebook
4. Share the link of this post on your Facebook timeline.
5. The contest starts from now till 6 May 2015, 2359 hrs.
6. Winners will be notified by email.

For the latest updates, head over to Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium website and like Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium on Facebook.

UPDATE: The four winners are Jason Chew, Goh Yee Ping, Jolynn, and Doreen Yau Siok Ching.

Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant
#04-00 Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium
317 Outram Road
Tel: +65 6731 7173
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 10.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Outram

This post is brought to you by Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium.

Regular readers will know that I am a fan of Paradise Pavilion at Marina Bay Financial Centre. Not only is it one of the most gorgeous Chinese restaurants in town, it also serves Chinese food of unimpeachable quality. I have been to Paradise Pavilion on several occasions, and they have always maintained a high standard.

Besides having a wide range of traditional dim sum, Paradise Pavilion also has new innovative creations, and one of my favourite dim sum on the menu is the grilled Siew Mai Skewers.

We also sampled the Steamed Scallop & Mushroom Dumpling and Black Truffle Chicken Pie. They were decent, but nothing to shout about.

From the modern Chinese starters menu, we were tempted to get the Combination of Pan-seared Foie Gras, Wasabi Prawn and Char-grilled Hokkaido Scallop ($22), but decided to save room for Peking Duck, so we got our favourite Pan-seared Foie Gras ($16) with caramelised apple.

This was followed by the Double-boiled Sea Whelk Soup ($22/pax) with fish maw. It’s warming, comforting and immeasurably soothing, the kind of soup that you want to drink on a cold day.

The highlight of our meal was Paradise Pavilion’s apple wood Roasted Peking Duck ($88 for whole duck) which is prepared by chefs formerly from Quan Ju De, Beijing’s famous Peking Duck Restaurant. I have not been to Beijing before so I can’t tell you how authentic the duck really is. But based on the ones that I’ve eaten before, Paradise Pavilion’s Peking Duck easily topped the list.

The first layer of the Peking duck – the fatty and crispy duck skin – was eaten with sugar. It was delicious. This was followed by the second layer of duck served with rice flour crepes, cucumber slices, spring onion, sugar and a homemade sweet sauce. And instead of using the remaining meat to cook the second dish, like most restaurants do, the chef carved out the meat and served it on the side.

After having the Peking duck, we were almost filled to the brim, but we still managed to finish the excellent Wok-fried Mashed Fish Noodle ($28) with pan seared shrimp stock.

The restaurant also offers very interesting desserts. Other than the usual Chinese desserts – such as Mango Pudding ($5) and Chilled Mango Sago Pomelo ($6.50) – Paradise Pavilion also has sweet temptations like Deep-fried Durian Ice Cream with Mango Puree ($8.50), Steamed Mashed Toro with Almond Cream ($8.50), and Crispy Custard Lava Man Tou ($8.80) with vanilla ice cream.

The Custard Lava Man Tou combined three of my favourite things, and it was more than we could have ever asked for.

Paradise Pavilion is a great place for family and friends to come together for a scrumptious meal. The restaurant has launched their Lunar New Year set menu, and it starts from $88/pax. If you are thinking of where to go for Chinese New Year, I’d highly recommend celebrating the occasion at Paradise Pavilion.

Paradise Pavilion
8A Marina Boulevard
#02-01 Marina Bay Link Mall
Tel: +65 6509 9308
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm
Note: This was an invited media tasting.

I love custard buns. It is not a secret that I have been on a quest to find the best custard buns in Singapore.

A good custard bun (also known as Liu Sha Bao) has soft pillowy dough which is filled with egg custard and salted duck egg’s yolk. There are plenty of dim sum restaurants in Singapore that serve it, but most of them are mediocre. Where can you find good custard buns? Where can you go to satisfy your cravings for this popular dim sum?

Here’s my list of the Best Custard Buns in Singapore.

Imperial Treasure Fine Chinese Cuisine

The Imperial Treasure name is synonymous with good quality and consistently good Chinese food. My girlfriend and I frequent Imperial Treasure Fine Chinese Cuisine at Marina Bay Sands, and whenever we dine there, it is a must for us to order their Custard Bun.

It is one of my to-go places and this one does not disappoint with the combination of soft bun with very addictive custard filling.

#L2-04, Marina Bay Sands
10 Bayfront Avenue
Tel: +65 6688 7788
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bayfront

Jiang-Nan Chun

Jiang-Nan Chun at Four Seasons Singapore is known for serving classic Cantonese cuisine in a luxurious setting. While everything on the dim sum menu is absolutely perfectly prepared, my favourite at Jiang-Nan Chun is without a doubt, the Custard Buns with salted egg yolk.

190 Orchard Boulevard
Four Seasons Hotel
Tel: +65 6831 7220
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun (Dim Sum Brunch): 11am – 1pm, 1.30pm – 3pm

Man Fu Yuan

There are many Cantonese restaurants in Singapore, but Man Fu Yuan at Intercontinental Singapore stands out for offering a unique tea pairing service. Here, you can enjoy a range of Chinese tea to go along with the signature dishes and dim sum.

Fans of custard bun will be happy to know that Man Fu Yuan serves two kinds of custard bun ($12 for 6) – deep fried and steamed. Both are equally good, but I prefer the latter.

80 Middle Road
2F Intercontinental Hotel
Tel: +65 6825 1062

Paradise Pavilion

What I love about Paradise Pavilion’s custard bun is that it is always consistently good. I’ve had it on many occasions, and it is always so satisfying. This is the easily one of the best, if not, best custard buns in Singapore. Besides the usual custard bun, they also have a Crispy Custard Lava Man Tou ($8.80) served with vanilla ice cream. It is heavenly.

8A Marina Boulevard
#02-01 Marina Bay Link Mall
Tel: +65 6509 9308
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

Peach Garden

This should go without saying, but I will reiterate the obvious: Peach Garden has, hands down, one of the best custard buns ($4.20) in Singapore. Besides their signature Wasabi Prawn and X.O. Carrot Cake, the custard bun is the must-order dish when you are at Peach Garden.

65 Chulia Street
#33-01 OCBC Centre
Tel: +65 6535 7833
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sun & PH: 10.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

Royal China Restaurant

Another of my favourite in town is the custard buns at Royal China. Its rendition was packed with a generous filling of the molten salted egg yolk custard and it had a certain “oomph“ to elevate it to something truly special.

1 Beach Road
#03-09 Raffles Hotel
Tel: +65 6338 3363
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun & PH: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

For more recommendations, read our guide to the best dim sum places in Singapore

I’ll be honest. The only reason why I went to Old Hong Kong Legend at Raffles City Shopping Mall was because Royal China was fully booked that day. Surprisingly, they have pretty good dim sum at reasonable prices.

If you have not heard about the Old Hong Kong Group, they currently have four restaurants: Old Hong Kong Kitchen at Novena Square 2, Old Hong Kong TasteMyVillage at Serangoon Gardens, Old Hong Kong Teahouse at Katong Village and of course, Old Hong Kong Legend at Raffles City Shopping Mall.

The dim sum menu at Old Hong Kong Legend has around 20 items, with prices ranging from $3.2 to $5.5 per basket. From the steamed items like Steamed Shrimp Dumping, Steamed Beef Balls, and Steamed Glutinous rice; to deep fried items like Deep Fried Prawn Dumpling, Deep Fried Spring Roll and Deep Fried Chives Dumpling; and baked items like Mini Egg Tarts, Baked Bo Lo Bun and Barbecued Pork Puff Pastry – there are options for every one.

Ever since I tried the Chicken Feet from Tim Ho Wan (One Michelin-Star restaurant in Hong Kong), my opinion about the dish has changed. For me, it used to represent one of those gruesome punishments in Fear Factor, but now, it is more like a yummy dim sum treat. Old Hong Kong Legend’s Steamed Chicken Claws with Black Bean Sauce ($3.2) was the perfect way to start one’s meal.

The Steamed Egg Yolk Custard Bun ($3.2) was good, but not life changing (read: not the best custard bun in Singapore). That said, I’ve paid $3 for one custard bun before, so the ones here are worth a try. Imagine: taste of happiness for merely a dollar each.

Three dim sum items arrived in quick succession: Steamed Glutinous Rice ($4.5), Pan Fried Radish Cake ($3.2), and Steamed Barbecued Pork Bun ($3.2). Except for the Glutinous rice in lotus leaf, the other two items were run-of-the-mill and nothing worth mentioning.

When I was scanning through the menu, the baked items like Char Siew Sou, Egg Tarts and Baked Bo Lo Bun were screaming ‘EAT ME’. Unfortunately, the oven was spoilt that day and we couldn’t order any of them. I don’t know if you’ve ever experienced this, but it is not a nice feeling to see something, and not being able to eat it.

Thankfully, the Steamed Shrimp Dumpling ($5.5) and Steamed Pork Dumpling ($5.5) were decent and we quickly forgot about the baked dim sum.

All in all, Old Hong Kong Legend at Raffles City Shopping Mall (City Hall) is a competent restaurant to have dim sum. If not for the fact that there are so many good dim sum restaurants like Royal China, Man Fu Yuan and Wah Lok in the area, I’d come back more often for lunch.

For more recommendations, read my list of dim sum restaurants in Singapore

Singapore Food Blog Review
Old Hong Kong Legend
252 North Bridge Road
#02-18 Raffles City Shopping Centre
Tel: +65 6336 3038

Featured in

icon-3