Orchid Live Seafood at HomeTeamNS Khatib is an old-school Chinese seafood restaurant which is known for its quality live Teochew-style seafood including Teochew Cold Crab, HK Style Steamed Soon Hock Fish, and its famous Lobster Porridge.

From now until 25 July, Orchid Live Seafood will be offering 1-for-1 promotions on Southern Australian Lobsters (U.P S$288) and Garlic Steamed Bamboo Clams (U.P S$16.80).

Everyone comes to Orchid Live Seafood for their iconic Lobster Porridge. While Lobster Porridge can be found in many other Chinese restaurants in Singapore now, Orchid Live Seafood is actually the original creator of this dish. Orchid Live Seafood has been serving their Lobster Porridge to their loyal customers since 1999.

The freshness of these lobsters is guaranteed as they catch your live lobsters from the tanks right after you place your order. These crustaceans are cut into halves, and the plump and juicy lobster meat attributes to the Teochew porridge’s sweetness and aromatic broth.

From 25 June till 25 July, enjoy the following promotions when you dine in at Orchid Live Seafood:

1-for-1 Southern Australian Lobsters (U.P $288)
1-for-1 Garlic Steamed Bamboo Clams (U.P $16.80)

Orchid Live Seafood
2 Yishun Walk, #03-01 HomeTeamNS Khatib
Singapore 767944

A stalwart in the Chinese restaurant scene here in Singapore and an institution best known for its exquisite Cantonese dishes, Peach Garden is one that never fails to impress.

Let Peach Garden at Hotel Miramar’s entice you with their new value-for-money promotion, where you can enjoy 50% off their A La Carte Buffet—that’s from S$24++/pax available daily both lunch and dinner! Quote “ladyironchef” upon making your reservation to receive a S$50 dining voucher (with $100 minimum spend).

Peach Garden also has 2 exclusive lobster set menu promotions, where you can enjoy 50% off each set when you quote “Ladyironchef” upon making a reservation. For S$34++ per pax (after 50% off), you get to enjoy a bowl of Double-boiled Superior Abalone in Claypot, a lobster dish of your choice, Braised Tien Shin cabbage with Dried Scallop and Shiitake Mushroom, Signature Fried Jasmine Rice with Baby Superior Shark’s Fin and Chilled Mango Sago with Pomelo.

These promotions are only available from now until 29 August 2019. So, hurry on down to Peach Garden for a feast fit for a king (or an emperor)!

A LA CARTE BUFFET

Peach Garden’s A La Carte Buffet features a whopping 37 delectable Chinese delights that will undoubtedly leave you spoilt for choice.

Start your meal off on a soul-comforting note with your choice of shark’s fin soup (limited to one order per person). There are five variations to choose from and our favourite is the one that comes with fresh crab meat and silky egg white. The soups have all been double-boiled to extract all those wholesome flavours without compromising on the quality of the ingredients.

DEEP-FRIED SOON HOCK FISH WITH GARLIC AND SUPERIOR SOYA SAUCE

If you prefer your fish fried, their Deep-fried Soon Hock Fish (usual price S$80++) will not disappoint. Deep-fried to a beautiful golden brown, the fish sported soft, flaky flesh that broke apart with ease and was crispy from edge to edge.

The simple yet robust superior soya sauce was of just the right consistency and added a nice savouriness and umami element which complemented the natural sweetness of the fish.

Dishes are all free-flow and there are no restrictions on how much you can order—except on the Soup items, the usual price for the fish is already at S$80++ per fish and the price for the A La Carte Buffet is now at S$24++ per person! This is some incredibly value-for-money deal that will allow you to eat to your heart’s content without feeling the pinch in your wallet

STEAMED LIVE PA TING FISH WITH MINCED GINGER IN SUPERIOR SAUCE

It would be a crime to leave Peach Garden without trying their famous Steamed Live Pa Ting Fish (usual price S$80++) which has a firm, springy texture on top of being incredibly fresh.

Slice through its meat like a hot knife through butter. Its copious garlic garnish enhances its fresh flavour that was devoid of fishiness and the muddy taste associated with freshwater fish.

LIVE PRAWNS

Their Live Prawns in ‘Indonesia Style’ (usual price S$28++) features fresh, chunky prawns that are simmered to perfection in a sinfully rich laksa-like broth. The other prawn dish consists of live prawns in a Chinese wine and herb concoction that has a slightly herbal flavour and a nourishing feel to it.

DEEP-FRIED FRESH PRAWN WITH WASABI SALAD

If you are a frequent diner at Peach Garden, you’d know that their Deep-Fried Fresh Prawn with Wasabi Salad Cream (S$26++) is one of the best renditions you can find in Singapore.

Here, the prawns come generously and evenly coated in an insanely crispy batter that gives the prawn a lovely crunch; but that isn’t the best part. What truly elevates the dish is the wasabi salad cream which is tangy, sweet and spicy all at once. We appreciate how the wasabi was not too overpowering to the point where it masked all the other components of the dish.

MEATS

Another thing that we absolutely love about Peach Garden’s A La Carte Buffet menu is their extensive selection of meat dishes.

We enjoyed their Sautéed Sweet and Sour Pork with Lychee which was stuffed into a colourful combination of bell peppers, as well as their Baked Spare Rib with Pineapple Sauce. For something less sweet and more savoury though, their Braised Pork Belly with Mui Choy was very tender and soft with layers of fats.

S$18 LIVE LOBSTER PROMOTION

Fans of this premium crustacean are in for a treat with Peach Garden’s half lobster promotion. Upon purchasing a lobster (S$18++ for half lobster), diners can choose from over 18 preparation methods in terms of how they want their lobster done.

Some of the flavours that you can expect are their Steamed Lobster with Superior Stock, Baked Lobster with Spring Onion and Ginger and Stir-fried Lobster with Fresh Crab Meat and Crab Roe. If you’re craving something more out of the box, there are also interesting options such as the Stir-fried Lobster with Black Truffle Sauce and Japanese Style Baked Lobster with Curry Sauce.

LOCALLY INSPIRED LOBSTER DISHES

Among the plethora of lobster options to choose from, the standouts include their locally inspired ones such as the Lobster Popiah, Lobster Rojak, Baked Lobster with Salted Egg Yolk & Crispy Milk and the Lobster with Chilli Crab Sauce.

If you haven’t gotten off the salted egg bandwagon, you’ll really enjoy their Baked Lobster with Salted Egg Yolk. Here, a creamy layer of custardy salted egg sauce evenly coats the entire lobster and provides it with that familiar, addictive savoury flavour that we all know and love.

Another noteworthy dish is their Lobster with Chilli Crab Sauce, where the lobster is doused in a sweet, savoury and spicy chilli sauce. The sauce is made even better with the addition of egg, which not only helps to thicken the sauce but provides it with a full-bodied flavour.

50% OFF LOBSTER SET MENU PROMOTION

Exclusively for our readers, you can quote “Ladyironchef” upon making a reservation to enjoy 50% off one of their 2 exclusive set menus.

Set Menu A (S$88++ per pax) comprises of a bowl of Peach Garden’s Signature Buddha Jump Over the Wall, a lobster dish of your choice (from 18 preparation methods), Roasted Crispy London Duck, Stewed Beetroot Noodles with Fresh Scallop and Double-boiled Crystals – Chilled Avocado with Ice Cream.

Set B (S$68++ per pax) comes with a bowl of Double-boiled Superior Abalone in Claypot, a lobster dish of your choice (from 18 preparation methods), Braised Tien Shin cabbage with Dried Scallop and Shiitake Mushroom, Signature Fried Jasmine Rice with Baby Superior Shark’s Fin and Chilled Mango Sago with Pomelo.

With these two set menus, you do not even have to choose. All the best items are put in the set for your enjoyment. You are guaranteed the bestsellers of Peach Garden.

And a 50% discount means enjoying those luxurious dishes without breaking the bank. The value, especially for Set B, is unparalleled. After the 50% discount, you only have to pay S$34++ per pax and you get an array of premium seafood, including abalone and lobster. That’s a deal that your mother won’t miss the world for!

Do note that each set meal requires a minimum of 2 pax on weekdays and 4 pax on weekends and cannot be used in conjunction with any other discounts, offers and credit card promotions. All lobster promotions are also only available at Peach Garden at Hotel Miramar for lunch and dinner, only for dinner at Peach Garden at The Metropolis/Chinatown Point/NTU.

A La Carte Buffet
(Prices stated are before discount)
Mon to Thu: S$48++/ adult, S$32++/ child
Fri, Eve of P.H: S$52++/ adult, S$36++/ child
Sat, Sun & P.H: S$58++/ adult, S$42++/ child
(Minimum 4 to dine)

Peach Garden @ Hotel Miramar (Daily, Lunch & Dinner)
401 Havelock Rd, Level 3 Hotel Miramar, Singapore 169631
Tel: 6736 3833

Peach Garden @ NTU Blk N2.1 (Weekdays – Dinner, Weekends – Lunch & Dinner)
76 Nanyang Dr, #02-01B, BLK N2.1, Singapore 637331
Tel: 6219 9398

Lobster Promotion (Prices stated are before discount)
Individual Half Lobster: S$18++
Lobster Set Menu A: S$88++
Lobster Set Menu B: S$68++

Peach Garden at Hotel Miramar (Daily, Lunch & Dinner)
401 Havelock Road
Level 3 Hotel Miramar
Singapore 169631
Tel: +65 6736 3833
Mon to Thu: 11am – 3.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Fri to Sun: 11am – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay & Outram Park
Email: miramar@peachgarden.com.sg

Peach Garden at NTU (Dinner only)
76 Nanyang Dr
#02-01B, BLK N2.1
Singapore 637331
Tel: 6219 9398
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Pioneer
Email: ntu@peachgarden.com.sg

Peach Garden at The Metropolis (Dinner only)
9 North Buona Vista Drive, #02-02
Singapore 138588
Tel: +65 6334 7833
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista
Email: metropolis@peachgarden.com.sg

Peach Garden at Chinatown Point (Dinner only)
133 New Bridge Road
#02-36 Chinatown Point
Singapore 059413
Tel: +65 6702 0603
Mon to Fri: 11am – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown
Email: chinatown@peachgarden.com.sg
This post is brought to you by Peach Garden.

Wan He Lou is a traditional Chinese restaurant along Maude Road that is well known for its popular Lobster Porridge and myriad of classic Chinese dishes.

It is the kind of restaurant that will gain instant approval from your grandmother for its cosy ambience, comforting Chinese food that will never go wrong and attentive service from the friendly wait staff.

When it comes to Chinese restaurants in Singapore that evoke nostalgia, Wan He Lou is an established brand that always seeks to deliver.

The warm lighting, Chinese lanterns, portrait photographs and round communal tables remind us of how a typical Chinese household used to look like in the past. It may be far from fancy, but the intimate, homey vibes play a huge part in getting loyal patrons to visit them time and time again.

Wan He Lou’s signature is undoubtedly their Lobster Porridge (S$31.90++ onwards), which also happens to be the pride of the restaurant’s award-winning founder chef, Lau Siaw Dee.

Cooked in Teochew style, the Lobster Porridge is a winning recipe and its success all boils down to its flavourful stock which comprises rich lobster roe and topped off with a fresh lobster that was prepared separately.

Tuck into the Truffle Pork Chops (small – S$19.90++, big – S$34.90++) should you be looking for something more substantial. Using Kurobuta pork, the tender chunks of meat came with truffle sauce that gave the pork chops an umami flavour explosion in our mouths.

Meanwhile, this sinful plate of Crispy Lotus with Salted Egg (small – S$11.90, medium – S$19.90) is worth breaking your diet for. The paper-thin lotus roots are beyond addictive; covered in a layer of golden salted egg yolk powder and accompanied by fragrant curry leaves.

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.

Wan He Lou
65 Maude Rd
Singapore 208347
Daily: 11am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Lavender

Once upon a time before we were born, lobsters were considered food for the poor. There was an abundance of these crustaceans then for nobody bothered to eat them. Things took a dramatic turn around the 19th century when whole cooked lobsters started being served on silver platters to the affluent class. Prices soared and the lobster became a prized catch.

Who would have known that such an unwanted seafood could evolve into such a pricey and highly sought-after delicacy? There are many lobster species available in the market and each breed has a different price tag. When cooked fresh, the fresh ones will taste succulent and sweet. Needless to say, the consumption of lobsters today still remains as an expensive affair.

Here is our guide to the Best Lobster Dishes in Singapore. Anytime you have a hankering for the crustacean, you know this list (that you should bookmark now) will come in handy.

CAJUN ON WHEELS – CRUSTY C.O.W. BURGER LOBSTER & BEEF

Cajun On Wheels is a Halal-certified seafood diner serving unadulterated and fresh seafood in true American fashion.

On top of coming with a 100% premium beef patty, the Crusty C.O.W. Burger Lobster & Beef (S$39.90++) also consists of half a lobster which makes this dining option worth every dollar. A ladle of butter herb sauce is layered over the fresh and juicy lobster and it made this dish so worth the indulgence.

68 Orchard Road
#03-92, Plaza Singapura
Singapore 238839
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

COASTES – SLIPPER LOBSTER SPAGHETTI

Enjoy a plate of Slipper Lobster Spaghetti (S$28++) whilst admiring scenic views of the ocean. The tomato-based pasta features generous portions of slipper lobster and cherry tomatoes. It is tossed with asparagus and topped with Parmesan cheese.

50 Siloso Beach Walk
#01-06 Sentosa
Tel: +65 6631 8938
Mon to Thu, Sun & PH: 9am – 11pm
Fri, Sat, & Eve Of Public Holiday: 9am – 1am
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

COLONY – LOBSTER LAKSA

International buffet restaurant Colony—situated on the third level of The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore—features an amazing spread of cuisines. There are eight ‘live’ kitchens and over at The Steam Basket is where you get to indulge in Lobster Laksa.

Think a traditional laksa but completed with handmade lobster balls instead! It is available as part of the dinner buffet.

Level 3
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
7 Raffles Avenue
Singapore 039799
Tel: +65 6434 5288
Daily: 6.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Promenade

DANCING CRAB – LOBSTER COMBO

Dancing Crab is our go-to restaurant for authentic Louisianan cuisine. Order their Lobster Combo (S$111.80++) which consists of a massive Boston lobster, 350 grams of prawns, 300 grams of clams, corn and sausages.

You can choose from several sauces but we would recommend getting the classic cajun sauce.

181 Orchard Road
#07-14/15, Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6509 1878
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

GINGER – PUMPKIN LOBSTER IN CLAYPOT

This phenomenal dish—by Executive Chef Low Hoe Kiat—beautifully combines the succulent texture of lobsters with generous servings of pumpkin puree that has been infused with locally sourced herbs.

The consistently good pumpkin gravy is the key to its huge success and we absolutely adore the creamy, smoky taste that just further accentuates the natural sweetness of the lobster.

PARKROYAL on Beach Road
7500 Beach Road
Singapore 199591
Tel: +65 6505 5710 
Daily: 6pm – 10.00pm
Nearest Stations: Bugis and Nicole Highway

GREENWOOD FISH MARKET – LOBSTER THERMIDOR

Greenwood Fish Market at Quayside Isle is a chic seafood restaurant that sets to impress with their seafood dishes.

Diners can opt for “live” Maine Lobsters that weigh approximately 500g to 550g and have them prepared in various cooking methods—steamed, chargrilled, thermidor, chilli-crab style or cajun butter.

31 Ocean Way
#01-04/05 Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove
Singapore 098375
Tel: +65 6262 0450
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

LUKE’S OYSTER BAR & CHOP HOUSE – LOBSTER ROLL 

Known for its seafood cocktails and oysters, it is by no surprise that Luke’s Chophouse does an impressive rendition of the classic lobster roll.

Apart from their impressive array of oysters, what is also worth trying is their Lobster Sliders which is served only during lunch. You get a generous serving of sweet lobster flesh—from a 500g Maine lobster—tucked nicely in a tall and thick brioche that is toasted to a pretty golden shade.

20 Gemmil Lane
Tel: +65 6221 4468
Mon to Wed: 12pm – 10.30pm
Thu to Sat: 12pm – 12 midnight
Nearest Station: Chinatown/Raffles Place

ORCHID LIVE SEAFOOD – LOBSTER PORRIDGE

The freshness of Orchid Live Seafood’s lobsters is guaranteed as they catch your lobsters right after you place your order. These crustaceans are cut into halves, and the plump and juicy lobster meat attributes to the Teochew porridge’s sweetness and aromatic broth.

1 Bah Soon Pah Road
Singapore 769959
Tel: +65 6756 0311
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Khatib

PINCE & PINTS – LIVE WHOLE LOBSTER

Mirroring a similar concept to Burger & Lobster in London, Pince & Pints is dedicated to serving the best lobster dishes under one roof. You have to order two of their signature dishes that also happen to be our favourites—Live Whole Lobster (S$58++) and The Lobster Roll (S$58++).

For those who are looking for more local-inspired flavours, there are also options such as Chilli Lobster (S$58++) and Lobster Noodle (S$58++). The former is like our local Chilli Crab but instead of crabs, you got that right, lobsters are used; the latter consists of wok-fried egg noodles with ginger, scallion and house-made chilli oil.

32-33 Duxton Rd
Singapore 089496
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Sat: 12pm – 11pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

TANJONG BEACH CLUB – LOBSTER BUN

Tanjong Beach Club’s newest addition to the menu is a Lobster Bun (S$38++). It is essentially an alternative interpretation of the conventional lobster roll. Fresh Maine lobster flesh, avocado and lime mayonnaise are sandwiched between sesame buns. The bun is also served with a hefty side of fries.

120 Tanjong Beach Walk
Singapore 098942
Tel: +65 9750 5323
Mon: 12pm – 10pm
Tue to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat: 10am – 10pm
Sun: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

TATSU – TEPPANYAKI LIVE LOBSTER

Savour the goodness of a premium fresh lobster teppanyaki style! Watch the chef cook the Live Lobster (seasonal price) over dramatic flames and we simply cannot reiterate how divine the fork-tender sweet meat tastes when it is served to us fresh from the stove.

#01-08 CHIJMES, 30 Victoria St
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 6332 5868
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

THE MARKET GRILL – WHOLE LOBSTER

You can get live Atlantic lobsters right at The Market Grill which are flown in from Maine and Boston. The whole lobster (S$52++)—approximately 500g each—is prepared with butter, lemon juice, a touch of garlic and served together with salad and mashed potatoes. Talk about the perfect lobster meal!

Diners have a choice of getting their lobster steamed or chargrilled.

208 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068642
Tel: +65 6221 3323
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Closed on Sundays
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

THE NAKED FINN – LOBSTER ROLL

Sitting within Gillman Barracks at Alexandra Road, The Naked Finn serves a decent Connecticut-style Lobster Roll (American lobster – S$38++, European lobster – S$42++) which features 90g of lobster meat with homemade mayonnaise/crème fraîche, locally-farmed mesclun salad and shoestring truffle fries.

39 Malan Road
Gillman Barracks
Singapore 109442
Tel: +65 6694 0807
Tue to Thu: 12.30pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12.30pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Closed on Sundays & Mondays
Nearest Station: Labrador Park

TUNGLOK HEEN – BOSTON LOBSTER

A meal at award-winning establishment TungLok Heen means an impressive selection of exquisite oriental delicacies prepared with expertly finesse.

Presented on a skewer, TungLok Heen’s Boston Lobster is cooked with cheese and herbs. Grilled to perfection, you can expect the lobster to be coated with a charred fragrance that is smoky with every bite.

Resorts World Sentosa
Hotel Michael, Lobby Level
26 Sentosa Gateway
#02-142/143
Singapore 098138
Tel: +65 6884 7888
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm (last order at 2pm), 6.30pm – 10.30pm (last order at 10pm)
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

TUNGLOK SIGNATURES – PAN-FRIED LOBSTER STEAK

TungLok Signature’s Pan-fried Lobster Steak is truly a must-order dish. The crustacean has been pan-fried to perfection and served atop leafy vegetables. A secret sauce is drizzled over it and we were surprised how a pomegranate could give the dish such an extra oomph.

Orchard Parade Hotel #02-18
1 Tanglin Road
Singapore 247905
Tel: +65 6834 0660
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

WAN HE LOU

Wan He Lou’s signature is undoubtedly their Lobster Porridge (S$31.90++ onwards), which also happens to be the pride of the restaurant’s award-winning founder chef, Lau Siaw Dee.

Cooked in Teochew style, the Lobster Porridge is a winning recipe and its success all boils down to its flavourful stock which comprises rich lobster roe and topped off with a fresh lobster that was prepared separately.

65 Maude Rd
Singapore 208347
Daily: 11am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Lavender

YÀN – DEEP-FRIED LOCAL LOBSTER

The Local Lobsters (seasonal price/100g) here at Yàn are amazing when deep fried with a side of Yàn’s house-made Chardonnay White Wine Sauce.

It is easy to overcook lobsters like this where it becomes rubbery, but fret not, the chefs have aced the deep frying and when you have the lobster served immediately, the flesh inside is still nice, warm and juicy.

#05-02 National Gallery Singapore
1 St. Andrew’s Road
Singapore 178957
Tel: +65 6384 5585
Opening hours: 11.30am – 2.30pm and 6pm – 10.30pm daily
Nearest Station: City Hall

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.

A dining experience at Orchid Live Seafood is akin to teleporting yourselves back into time. While the old-school seafood restaurant is not located in the most convenient locations, its inaccessibility has not deterred its loyal customers from patronising it.

Award-winning Orchid Live Seafood has received many public figures over the years and that list includes Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Orchid Live Seafood’s superbly fresh dishes are seriously worth travelling for, and can we say just how much we love the kampong-style experience?! The restaurant is also home to a huge collection of South African craft beers.

From now until 31 December 2016, quote ‘ladyironchef’ to enjoy 40% off craft beers with any purchase of items on the menu (valid only on weekdays). Meanwhile, here’s what you can expect from Orchird Live Seafood—also the creator of the famous Lobster Porridge.

THE BEST LOBSTER PORRIDGE IN SINGAPORE

Nobody leaves Orchid Live Seafood without ordering the signature Lobster Porridge (S$10 per 100g). While lobster porridge can be found in many other Chinese restaurants, Orchid Live Seafood is actually the original creator. In fact, the Lobster Porridge has been served to customers since 1999. This iconic main course is indeed the epitome of indulgence.

A 600g, 800g, 1kg, 1.5kg and 2kg portion will feed two, three, four six and eight pax respectively. The freshness of these lobsters is guaranteed as they catch your lobsters right after you place your order. These crustaceans are cut into halves, and the plump and juicy lobster meat attributes to the Teochew porridge’s sweetness and aromatic broth.

BOSTON LOBSTER

The massive Boston Lobster (S$70) took us by surprise and we devoured every single bit of it. The succulent flesh is best eaten with the accompanying sauce—a complex blend of butter, cheese, milk and spices. We were almost licking the plate clean!

You can save S$10 and order this chunky lobster for just S$60 as an add-on to any set menus.

TEOCHEW COLD CRAB

The Teochew-style Cold Crab is a crab dish that is almost forgotten, but one that our parents and Teochew descendants will definitely relish.

The Teochew Cold Crab is prized for its roe, and just look at the generous amount of roe on Orchid Live Seafood’s Teochew Cold Crab (S$52)! These briny crabs taste naturally sweet on its own.

STEAMED MINCED PORK WITH SALTED EGG

Orchid Live Seafood is introducing pork in its menu for the very first time and we are totally digging their rendition of the fragrant Steamed Minced Pork (S$18). The meat patty is served with a bright orangey salted egg yolk and drenched in superior sauce.

It’s one of those ‘comfort food’ options, and the kids will love it!

STEVEN CHICKEN

The Steven Chicken (8 pieces – S$12, 12 pieces – S$18, 16 pieces – S$24) blew our minds; it is no surprise this signature has been keeping regulars back for more for many decades.

Marinated in a sweet sauce (inhouse secret!) and deep-fried to perfection; this bestselling dish ain’t no ordinary chicken wings. We dare say it’s even better than Korean fried chicken! Take a closer look and you will notice that the flesh has been scraped from one wing end to the other for easy consumption.

TOP-SHELL WITH FRIED TOFU

Orchid Live Seafood’s chef-recommended Top-shell With Crispy Tofu (S$12) instantly reminded us of a Thai salad. This semi-spicy dish features tofu with sliced cucumber, onions and sesame seeds; the mixture is then drizzled with a hot sauce.

SPINACH WITH THREE EGGS

This plate of Spinach With Three Types Of Eggs (small – S$12, medium – S$15) is a Chinese classic that nailed all the right spots.

The sweet hearty clear chicken broth and fresh greens are served in a pot set atop a fire so your dish stays warm throughout your meal.

SWEET POTATO BALLS WITH YAM PASTE

These Sweet Potato Balls with Yam Paste (S$20 per set) might look unassuming, but it sure left an everlasting impression. Who would have thought these bite-size balls could be so addictive?!

These warm mini balls are delightfully soft inside—with the first layer being sweet potato mash, and the inner layer yam paste. Each golden-brown orb is dusted with icing sugar.

A HUGE SELECTION OF SOUTH AFRICAN CRAFT BEERS 

Interestingly, Orchid Live Seafood is home to a huge collection of South African craft beers. You can purchase these imported bottles from S$8 for a Eversons Cloudy Apple Cider to S$14 for a Citizen Beer Pacifist Winter Porter.

Quote ‘ladyironchef’ to enjoy 40% off craft beers with any purchase of items on the menu (valid only on weekdays and until 31 Dec 2016).

Orchid Live Seafood has also opened its reservations for Chinese New Year dinners. Set menus are available; premium seafood and honest cooking are befitting of that annual reunion dinner. Prices start from S$268 nett for 4 pax, to S$468 nett for 6 pax and S$488 nett for 8 pax.

Orchid Live Seafood
16 Jalan Kelulut
Singapore 809033
Tel: +65 6484 2495
Nearest Station: Fernvale

This post is brought to you by Orchid Live Seafood.