When we talk about Singapore’s culinary landscape, one of the most iconic dishes that has earned itself international acclaim is none other than the famous chilli crab. Having received approval from both locals and tourists alike, most would agree that this is a quintessential Singaporean dish not to be missed. Anyone who argues about its origins is either lying or is terribly misinformed. Period.

While many seafood restaurants in Singapore have their own renditions of this local dish, the gravy is almost always a combination of sweet, spicy and savoury flavours, accented with chilli and tomato sauce. Dig into it with your bare hands to enjoy the full experience—yes, this is a meal that is meant to be messy so don’t be shy about licking the sauce off your fingers!

Hosting your overseas friends for a meal? Here are 12 Best Chilli Crabs In Singapore to introduce to them.

TUNGLOK SEAFOOD

TungLok Seafood’s Chilli Crab is one of the restaurant’s bestsellers. The crabs are cooked to perfection and its plump flesh does not stick to the shell; the outer shell breaks easily hence allowing one to dig into the fresh crabmeat almost effortlessly.

The secret ingredient that lies in the chilli-based tomato sauce is one that gives the viscous gravy an extra oomph, and you would never have guessed that it is freshly squeezed orange juice.

181 Orchard Road #11-05,
Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6834 4888
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun and PH: 10am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

BAN HENG

You may have heard of Ban Heng for their ridiculously affordable dim sum buffet but the restaurant’s rendition of Chilli Crab is one you should be taking note of. While other chilli crab recipes outside tend to be sweeter, this one is considerably spicier and it should impress those who enjoy spice.

1 Maritime Square #04-01,
HarbourFront Centre
Singapore 099253
Tel: +65 6278 0288 / +65 6278 1354
Daily: 11.30am – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

BLUE LOTUS CHINESE EATING HOUSE

Known for their Signature Chilli Pomelo Crab, Blue Lotus sources for meaty Sri Lankan crabs that are stir-fried with thick tomato-based sauce that mixed with chopped herbs and spices such as lemongrass and curry leaves for that aromatic flavour.

31 Ocean Way #01-13,
Quayside Isle
Singapore 098375
Tel: +65 6339 0880
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Mon to Fri: 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am  – 10pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

SEAFOOD PARADISE

As Paradise Group’s first culinary concept, Seafood Paradise has created a strong branding for itself when it comes to seafood and of course, their Singapore’s Famous Chilli Crab which is on the spicier side—catering more for the local taste buds. If you find the spice too much to handle, have them with deep-fried mantou.

10 Bayfront Avenue #02-03,
Marina Bay Sands (Level 2 Dining)
Singapore 018956
Tel: +65 6688 7051
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bayfront

GINGER

Swimming in a subtly sweet, savoury and spicy gravy, the much-loved Chilli Crabs is a staple and we particularly love Executive Chef Low’s rendition as it is served with lots of egg stirred into the sauce mixture to give it a luscious and decadent texture.

7500 Beach Road
PARKROYAL on Beach Road
Singapore 199591
For reservations: +65 6505 5710 or dining.prsin@parkroyalhotels.com
Daily: 6am – 12am
Nearest Stations: Bugis / Nicoll Highway

J65

This is undisputedly one of J65’s best dishes and the crabs are stir-fried in garlic, ginger, shallots, tomato paste and chilli sauce. The best part? The succulent and juicy chilli crabs are free-flow at this buffet restaurant!

1A Cuscaden Road Level 1
Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore
Singapore 249716
Tel: +65 6831 4374
Daily: 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

JUMBO SEAFOOD

Before chilli crabs became ubiquitous at all the seafood restaurants in Singapore, JUMBO seafood was one of the first few to perfect this recipe. Their award-winning restaurant used to be one of the most talked about in town and continues to be one of the top choices among tourists who wish to have a taste of the Singapore chilli crab.

Block 1206 East Coast Parkway #01-07/08,
East Coast Seafood Centre
Singapore 449883
Tel: +65 6442 3435
Mon to Fri: 5pm – 11.45pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 11.30am – 12am
Nearest Station: Bedok

Photo Credit: Palm Beach Seafood

PALM BEACH SEAFOOD

Having been around since 1956, you can only expect the best from this established seafood restaurant. Situated within One Fullerton with a fantastic view of the Marina Bay waterfront, their Sri Lankan chilli crab is indeed worth the splurge.

1 Fullerton Road #01-09,
One Fullerton
Singapore 049213
Tel: +65 6336 8118
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

SPICE BRASSERIE

Spice Brasserie at PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road has one of the most value-for-money seafood buffet spreads in Singapore. We liked that the chefs did their own twist on the chilli crab with a thicker and spicier sauce instead of the traditional and typical Singapore-style chilli crab.

PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road
181 Kitchener Rd
Singapore 208533
Tel: +65 6428 3160
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm to 10pm
Nearest Station: Farrer Park

ROLAND SEAFOOD

The origins of chilli crab are widely associated with Roland Seafood restaurant as it is said that the owner’s father is the founder of the iconic Singapore Chilli Crab. Continuing on the founder’s legacy, the restaurant still serves the original recipe today and it is slightly sweeter than the ones you will find elsewhere.

Block 89, Marine Parade Central, #06-750
Singapore 440089
Tel: +65 6440 8205
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun & PH: 11am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

RED HOUSE SEAFOOD

Satisfying diners since 1976, Red House Seafood pays tribute to Asian cooking techniques by incorporating Chinese, Malay, Peranakan and Indian flavours into their dishes. Opt for the Red House Chilli Crab and you get to choose among varieties such as Sri Lankan Mud Crab, Scottish Brown Crab and Alaskan King Crab.

60 Robertson Quay #01-14,
The Quayside
Singapore 238252
Tel: +65 6735 7666
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

NO SIGNBOARD SEAFOOD

Starting out as a hawker stall at Mattar Road Hawker Centre, No Signboard Seafood restaurant is now a leading seafood restaurant chain in Singapore. Apart from the acclaimed White Pepper Crab dish, many loyal patrons visit them time and again for their quality chilli crabs as well.

6 Eu Tong Sen Street #04-63,
The Central @ Clarke Quay
Singapore 059817
Tel: +65 6221 9959
Daily: 11am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

From Cajun-spiced crustaceans to glorious grilled seafood platters and everyone’s favourite Singapore-style chilli crab, sunny Singapore has them all for seafood lovers.

Yes, there really is no shortage of seafood restaurants. Whether you fancy an unpretentious meal at a humble zi char stall in a coffee shop or a more chi-chi experience at a posh restaurant, we’ve got you covered with today’s installation.

Heck those cholesterol levels and whatnot, because we are all going on a ‘see food’ diet! Here are 13 amazing seafood restaurants in Singapore for the freshest seafood.

CAJUN ON WHEELS

Located on Level 3 at the extension of Plaza Singapura, Cajun On Wheels is a Halal-certified seafood diner serving unadulterated and fresh seafood in true American fashion. As its name suggests, Cajun On Wheels is a Cajun-themed restaurant and one where you can expect all dishes on its menu to pack a punch.

Must-tries include The Incrawdibles that features a mountain of fresh crawfish tossed in Old Bay Seasoning as well as the Poseidon Bucket that sees an array of seafood delights tossed in a spicy cheese sauce.

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

CAPTAIN K SEAFOOD TOWER

Fit for all sorts of communal gatherings where seafood is a key craving, Captain K Seafood Tower is a great option to consider for the fact that they offer diners a massive selection of quality seafood items and excellent service.

The restaurant combines luscious seafood and an excitingly unusual seafood tower concept which make for a delicious, satisfying and more importantly enjoyable dining experience.

112 Middle Road, #01-00
Midland House
Singapore 188970
Tel: +65 6255 5744
Mon: 5.30pm – 11pm
Tue to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 5pm – 1am
Sun: 11.30am – 3pm, 5pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

DANCING CRAB

Those who have been to Dancing Crab by TungLok Group will surely know that a meal there is life-changing, to say the least. Specialising in authentic Louisiana-style seafood dishes, what one can expect is nothing short of sheer luxury coupled with rustic dining.

Get your bare hands out and dive right in because using cutlery is not the norm here. If you’re in a group, you should definitely opt for one of their Signature Combo Bags that comprise prawns, crabs, mussels, clams and basically everything you could ever want seafood-wise.

VivoCity #03-10
1 Harbourfront Walk
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 6222 7377
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

GREENWOOD FISH MARKET

For many years now, Greenwood Fish Market has been around and still, it continues to wow us with their stellar fish and chips and seafood offerings. This is a no-nonsense and minimal extravagance sort of place, offering fresh and honest seafood that are prepared with simple techniques.

If you are looking to splurge, the seasonal Alaskan king crab will do just the trick. If not, nothing like a plate of crispy fish and chips to put your tummy in a happy place.

34 & 38 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289236
Tel: +65 6467 4950
Daily: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

JUMBO SEAFOOD

This colossally popular Chinese seafood restaurant is no stranger to anyone who loves seafood. Yet, with so many outlets dotted all over the country, what keeps us going back to the same few ones is their consistent quality, undeniably fresh seafood and impeccable service.

These folks don’t play around when it comes to seafood. Only the best catches make it to their woks, resulting in a mind-blowing seafood experience every time.

2 Orchard Turn, #04-09/10 ION Orchard, Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 6737 3435
Nearest Station: Orchard

LONG BEACH SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

A haven for crab lovers, Long Beach Seafood Restaurant stands as an icon in Singapore’s massive slew of seafood institutions. Being an awardee of several culinary awards, you know you can count on them to provide an unforgettable seafood experience.

Hot favourites include their lip-smacking chilli crab that is considerably spicier than others as well as the black pepper crab that comes with a gorgeous layer of aromatic and irresistibly tasty black pepper sauce.

25 Dempsey Road,
Singapore 249670
Tel: +65 6323 2222
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Farrer Road

NEW UBIN SEAFOOD

One of our favourite spots to get quality seafood and mind-blowing grub is New Ubin Seafood. Introducing fresh twists to traditional zi char classics, what you can hope to find in this cosy coffee shop is comfort food prepared with gourmet-level mastery.

To give you a clearer picture of what we mean, consider their Steamed Egg Custard with Uni Sauce or even their Porridge with Tofu Butter and Swordfish—also not forgetting various crab delights and Black Angus ribeye steak that people seem to go gaga over.

63 Hillview Avenue, Level 6 (Canteen),
Singapore 669569
Tel: +65 6466 9558
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hillview

NUDE SEAFOOD

Featuring a contemporary take on seafood, what you can expect here is a repertoire of fancily dolled up plates that look more exquisite than it costs. The quality here is excellent and every item from their fish to their cuttlefish goes through a rigorous curation process to ensure that only the best quality ingredients are used.

Applying the fine dining background of their kitchen team, their dishes such as their Fisherman’s Stew and Miso Red Snapper come adorned with specks of elegant finishes but taste honest, simple and transparent. Hence the name, nude.

12, #01-02 Marina Blvd,
Tower 3 Marina Bay Financial Centre,
Singapore 018982
Tel: +65 6443 1167
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Downtown

ROLAND SEAFOOD

The birthplace of Singapore’s iconic chilli crab—bet you didn’t know that—Roland Seafood over at Marine Parade is where anyone yearning for authenticity should definitely check out. While many other restaurants prepare a slightly sweeter variation of chilli crab to cater to tourists and the general masses, Roland keeps it as real to its roots as possible by serving it up spicy.

Other seafood options are available as well and they are all pretty darn delicious too.

#06-750, 89, Marine Parade Central,
Singapore 440089
Tel: +65 6440 8205
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 11am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

THE BOILER

When cajun-style seafood meets booze, you know you are not going home disappointed. The Boiler over at Paya Lebar brings together the concept of American seafood boils featuring delicious crustacean delights.

The restaurant features a laid-back setting, allowing you to choose fresh seafood that are boiled to order. Once served, diners can feel free to ravage through their food using nothing but their bare hands—that’s right, formalities are literally chucked aside here and that is why we love it so much.

18 Howard Road #01-06,
Novelty Bizcentre,
Singapore 369585
Tel: +65 6635 1285
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm –10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

THE PELICAN

Offering diners a gorgeous view of the Marina Bay skyline, as well as a bountiful selection of marine favourites, prepared several ways, The Pelican at One Fullerton is a no-frills dining spot that promises an unforgettable experience regardless of the occasion.

For folks like us who will always be down for seafood in a heartbeat, we were utterly blown away by the likes of their signature Snapper Pie and colossal Grilled Seafood Platter.

1 Fullerton Road, #01-01
One Fullerton
Singapore 04921
Tel: +65 6438 0400
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11.30pm
Sun: 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

TUNGLOK SEAFOOD

Specialising in locally-inspired seafood delicacies, this seafood-focused concept by the established TungLok Group aims to deliver topnotch grub worthy enough to rival the greats such as Roland or even Long Beach.

Known for their commendable service and quality seafood, expect nothing short of a stellar dining experience at this award-winning establishment. Their signature TungLok Chilli Crab is a must-try and you can count on their hearty Mee Goreng to delight both your palate and your tummy.

Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road , #11-05
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6834 4888
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 10am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

THE NAKED FINN

Dishing out awesome lobster rolls, prawn noodles and other seafood dishes, The Naked Finn is a gem hidden within Gillman Barracks that is worth the find. The folks here are all about quality and they make it a point to source for only the best and freshest catches.

We recommend paying a visit during lunchtime. Besides the fact that it looks prettier in the day, it is also mainly because their prized Lobster Roll is only available then. Featuring 90g of lobster flesh, served with homemade mayonnaise and straight-cut fries, this is a true luxury.

39 Malan Road,
Gillman Barracks,
Singapore 109442
Tel: +65 6694 0807
(Closed on Sundays & Mondays)
Tue to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Labrador Park

If you’ve missed Spice Brasserie at PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road’s Gifts of The Sea buffet, rejoice for there is an extension of its stellar seafood buffet in light of the overwhelming response these past few months!

All through to the end of October 2018, tuck into a stunning array of delectable crustacean delights from crabs, baby lobsters, clams and more. There are new additions too, so if you’ve tried the buffet and love the line-up, here’s another reason for you to go back.

From now until the end of October 2018 through Thursdays to Sundays, you can quote ‘ladyironchef’ to enjoy Spice Brasserie’s Gift of The Sea Buffet Dinner at S$108++ for 2 pax (U.P. S$65/ adult, S$32.50/ child).

NEW ITEMS FRESH OFF THE BOAT

In light of their many iconic staples, the chefs here pride themselves on their knack for creativity! Introducing modern takes on seafood items with their brand new, Baked Chlamys Nobilis with Wasabi Hollandaise Mayo and Spicy Baby Lobster Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, you can bet that you’ll be reaching in for seconds and even thirds without hesitation.

The clams are seasoned generously with black pepper, salt and basil and baked for exactly 6 minutes before being topped with wasabi, hollandaise and a selection of fresh aromatics. 

And if you’re pining for something with a fiery kick, help yourselves to the latter option at the buffet restaurant’s Chef Station. Prepared freshly upon order, the baby lobsters boast a buttery sheen, a succulent taste and an amazing texture. 

CRABS GALORE

The Gifts of the Sea buffet features a stellar array of crab-centric dishes. Ticking all the boxes of local crab favourites such as the authentic Singapore Chili Crab, Black Pepper Crab and Salted Egg Yolk Crab.

If there’s any better reason for us to get right in with our fingers, this would be it. Expertly cooked, every crab dish promises nothing short of full-on flavour and only the freshest (and firmest) crabs.

STEAMED BAMBOO CLAM WITH MINCED GARLIC CHILI LIME

For a main that will go easy on your palates, opt for the steamed bamboo clam with minced garlic chilli lime.

Delicate, silky smooth and extremely succulent, the minced garlic chilli lime that sits on top of each bamboo clam gives an extra dimension of flavours in addition to the natural sweetness that the steamed bamboo clam carries.

WOK BRAISED LIVE SAN HAR KING PRAWNS NOODLE

Should you be looking for something more comforting yet indulgent, hop over to the live station where a chef will whip up a fragrant serving of Wok Braised Har King Prawns Noodle, a noodle dish that features ridiculously plump prawns, silky noodles and a rich herbal broth.

We’ve barely scratched the surface here, so make a reservation and head on down to discover what other tantalising delights Spice Brasserie has in store.

The Gifts of the Sea buffet dinner is available from now until 31 October 2018 through Thursdays to Sundays. Quote ‘ladyironchef’ to enjoy Spice Brasserie’s Gift of The Sea Buffet at S$108++ for 2 pax (U.P. S$65/ adult, S$32.50/ child).

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.

Spice Brasserie
PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road
181 Kitchener Rd
Singapore 208533
Tel: +65 6428 3160
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm to 10pm
Nearest Station: Farrer Park

Our beloved national dish—the glorious chilli crab—has always been a must-try local delicacy.

The younger Singaporean entrepreneurs have taken this traditional classic to a whole new level by integrating its key flavours into other cuisines. We are now seeing chilli crab infused into buns, burgers, pastas and even in a donburi!

From Fresh Fruits Lab’s Chilli Soft Shell Crab Pasta to Yan’s Chilli Crab Meat Buns, here are 9 Best Chilli Crab Dishes in Singapore.

Photo Credit: Bao Makers

#1 BAO MAKERS – CHILLI CRAB BAO

THE PLACE: Bao Makers is a cafe that is known for their whacky bao creations and their menu encompasses everything you can ever think of.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: With Bao Maker’s Chilli Crab Bao which comprises real crab meat in succulent chilli crab sauce sandwiched between two deep-fried mantou, you will never look at Chinese baos the same way again.

#2 DIN TAI FUNG – STEAMED CHILLI CRAB AND PORK BUNS

THE PLACE: A popular Chinese restaurant that has multiple outlets across the island, Din Tai Fung is most well known for their steamed pork dumplings.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: Piping hot Steamed Chilli Crab and Pork Buns from Din Tai Fung features generous chunks of chilli crab mixed with minced pork in a soft bun.

290 Orchard Road
#B1-03, Paragon
Singapore 238859
Tel: +65 6836 8336
Mon to Fri: 11am – 9.30pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#3 DON MEIJIN – SPICY CHILLI CRAB TENDON

THE PLACE: Don Meijin is a donburi eatery at Ramen Champion Bugis+ offering quite a range of donburi bowls.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: The Spicy Chilli Crab Tendon is served with deep-fried prawns, asparagus, pumpkin, salmon, kakiage and eggplant—and the addition of chilli crab sauce over crispy tempura.

201 Victoria Street
#04-10, Bugis+
Ramen Champion Bugis+
Singapore 188067
Tel: +65 6238 1011
Mon to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#4 FRESH FRUITS LAB – CHILLI SOFT SHELL CRAB PASTA

THE PLACE: A colourful space that has been deliberately decorated to resemble a minimalistic laboratory.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: Chilli Soft Shell Crab Pasta is served in a homemade spicy sauce—prepared with chilli crab, tomatoes and eggs—before it is topped with fresh herbs and a crispy succulent soft shell crab.

351 Changi Road
Singapore 419818
Tel: +65 6677 6741
Tue to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Closed on Mondays
Nearest Station: Eunos

#5 THE HALIA – HALIA’S SINGAPORE-STYLE CHILLI CRAB SPAGHETTINI

THE PLACE: Nestled within lush greenery at The Botanic Gardens, The Halia is an award-winning restaurant renowned for their Singapore-style dishes.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: We love chilli crab but we will admit we hate declawing it. The Halia’s chilli crab pasta allows one to sink his/her teeth into large amounts of chilli crabmeat with spaghetti.

1 Cluny Road, Ginger Garden
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Singapore 259659
Tel: +65 8444 1148
Mon to Fri: 9am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

Photo Credit: Loof

#6 LOOF – CHILLI CRAB WAFFLE FRIES

THE PLACE: Rooftop bar Loof is a popular after-work watering hole and is frequented by nearby corporate workers throughout the week.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: Loof’s Waffle Fries comprises their signature chilli sauce and blue crab dip. Yes, the tangy blue crab dip is something you have to try!

331 North Bridge Road
#03-07 Odeon Towers
Singapore 188720
Closed on Sundays
Mon to Thu: 5pm – 1am
Fri and Sat: 5pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Bras Basah

#7 O’ COFFEE CLUB XPRESS – CHILLI CRAB PASTA

THE PLACE: A casual cafe that is equipped with free WIFI, power sockets, a curated range of gourmet food and coffee selections.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: The cafe’s Chilli Crab Pasta captures the essence of our favourite Singaporean local delight pretty well with the pasta being topped with a generous amount of chilli crab sauce and crab meat.

10 Airport Boulevard
Departure Public Area
Singapore 819665
Tel: +65 6513 2650
Daily: 24 Hours
Nearest Station: Changi Airport

#8 THE FABULOUS BAKER BOY – CHILLI CRAB MAC & CHEESE

THE PLACE: The Fabulous Baker Boy is a cosy space ideal for gatherings with friends and/or a quiet meal with your partner. Prices here are very reasonable too.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: We are digging The Fabulous Baker Boy’s interpretation of the Mac & Cheese. Think chunks of chilli crab meat and herbed panko served atop the classic Mac & Cheese.

70 River Valley Road
Singapore 179037
Tel: +65 6694 8336
Closed on Mondays
Tue to Thu: 8.30am – 6pm
Fri & Sat: 8.30am – 10pm
Sun: 8.30am – 5pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

#9 YAN – PAN-FRIED SINGAPORE CHILLI CRAB MEAT BUN

THE PLACE: 154-seater Yàn is a beautiful Chinese restaurant that sits on the fifth floor of the stunning National Gallery Singapore. We are in love with the restaurant’s chinoiserie-chic vibes and elegant Cantonese cuisine.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: Yan has pushed all boundaries and surprised us with their pan-fried Chilli Crab Meat buns. Tasty wok-fried buns are stuffed with savoury chilli crab and complete with sesame seeds.

1 St. Andrew’s Road, #05-02
National Gallery Singapore
Singapore 178957
Tel: +65 63845585
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
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.