What makes Singapore’s culinary landscape a peerless one is how it truly is a melting pot of literal flavours. As the home to a complex medley of cultures and heritage, this confluence brings forth a myriad of cuisines, each brimming with its own distinct palette of tastes and colours.

Beneath the veil cast by the dominant cuisines of major ethnic groups, there still exists multiple unique culinary heritages awaiting our discovery. Of this collective, one of the more prominent marginal ethnic groups is the Peranakan. With a lineage descended from a blend of Chinese, Malay and Indonesian backgrounds, many have since been assimilated into the broader Chinese or Malay ethnic groups.

Despite this dilution of cultural identity, an enduring aspect of their history is their inimitable cuisine. Renowned for having bright, vibrant flavours that are familiar yet fresh, these dishes and the equally rich history behind them have seen a recent resurgence in the local gastronomical scene.

From gourmet Michelin-starred restaurants to humble family-owned eateries, here is a collection of 18 places where you can sample a flavourful slice of Singapore’s Peranakan food heritage.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/babachewssg/

BABA CHEWS

Normally we don’t attribute much more than somewhat palatable food to a hotel’s main café and restaurant, but the in-house restaurant for the Peranakan-culture-laden Hotel Indigo, Baba Chews, deserves a special mention.

Housed in the preserved 1928 Joo Chiat Police Station, Baba Chews too draws its inspiration from the rich Peranakan heritage of its Katong location. You can find a mix of the usual Western and local favourites, except many are served with a hearty Peranakan twist – like their Salmon with Laksa Sauce and Ayam Buah Keluak Burger – making for a less intimidating introduction to Nonya flavours.

86 East Coast Road
Katong Square
Singapore 428788
Tel: +65 6723 2025
Daily: 6.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/Profile/tagohHS/

BUMBU RESTAURANT

Upon first glance, Bumbu may seem to be an odd choice for a Peranakan list with its predominantly Thai and Indonesian offerings. Although not widely advertised, it is one of the few restaurants that offer authentic yet fairly priced Nonya fare, with their Buah Keluak being a favourite among its regulars.

If you visit their Kandahar Street branch, not only do you get to dine under the shadow of the palatial Sultan Mosque, the interior of the restaurant is akin to a museum of Peranakan cultural relics from Singapore’s yesteryears.

44 Kandahar Street
Singapore 198897
Tel: +65 6392 8628
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Nicoll Highway / Bugis
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/candlenut.sg/

CANDLENUT

Upping the ante, Candlenut is no stranger to gourmands and connoisseurs of Peranakan cuisine. Upholding its title as the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant for the past three years, this is the place to be if you wish to revel in the intricacies of Nonya food.

Flaunting the rigidity of traditionalists, Candlenut showcases the malleability of Peranakan fare without compromising on authenticity. By creating contemporary dishes around the essence of the cuisine, patrons can expect exciting taste combinations such as Kueh Pie Tee with Boston Lobster and Wagyu Beef Rib Rendang.

17A Dempsey Road
Singapore 249676
Tel: 1800 304 2288 (Local calls only)
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown

CHARLIE’S PERANAKAN FOOD

Swinging to the other end of the spectrum, Charlie’s approach to Peranakan food is humble and homely, centred around the core of heartfelt cooking. A famed hawker stall in the past, Charlie (of the eatery’s namesake) found it difficult to stay away from his passion for cooking, returning in 2017 after an 8-year absence.

As though he hasn’t taken a break, Charlie continues to dish out genuine yet affordable Nonya fare for the masses, including the often overlooked but surprisingly robust Chap Chye, and the tender scrumptiousness of his Babi Pongteh.

505 Beach Road
Golden Mile Food Centre, #B1-30
Singapore 199583
Tel: +65 9789 6304
Daily: 11.30am – 7.30pm
Nearest Station: Nicoll Highway

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/chillipadinonyarestaurant/

CHILLI PADI

Another gem along the historic streets of Joo Chiat is Chilli Padi. The brand has been adorned with multiple accolades over the years for steadily cultivating the public’s palates for Nonya food over the decades with its exemplary yet reasonably priced fare. A feat considering interest in Peranakan food mostly burgeoned only in recent years.

While the food may not seem dissimilar to Chinese restaurants, the main difference here lies in the subtle difference in the seasoning and ingredients used. Expect flavours that are richer with a heavier dose of spices when dining here.

11 Joo Chiat Place
#01-03
Singapore 427744
Tel: +65 6275 1002
Daily: 11.30am –2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://godmama.sg/

GODMAMA

Despite being one of the newer Peranakan establishments, Godmama manages to entice with its modern Peranakan fare, netting a spot in the 2019 Chope Diners’ Choice Hall of Fame New Restaurant of the Year category

Helmed by a trio of Peranakans looking to keep the food of their heritage alive, you can find a blend of traditional favourites and modern iterations of Nonya cuisine inspired by their real-life Godmama. For the former, look towards either the egg skin popiah or the babi assam; for the latter, the Godmama’s Otak Otak Benedict and Buah Keluak Bolognese Pasta are popular choices.

109 North Bridge Road
Funan Mall, #04-07
Singapore 179105
Tel: +65 6970 0828
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

GUAN HOE SOON RESTAURANT

Operating since 1953, Guan Hoe Soon is one of the few remaining old-school Peranakan restaurants in Singapore. Found inside a shophouse along the streets of Joo Chiat, this eatery exudes a simple, time-worn charm similar to the comfort of a family dining room, finished with a small collection of Nonya vintage tableware.

From deceptively simple sides like their delightfully piquant otah, to more extravagant mains like the rich flavours of their assam pomfret, a meal at Guan Hoe Soon entails returning to the roots of the Peranakan heritage through an uncomplicated exploration of classic dishes.

40 Joo Chiat Place
Singapore 427764
Tel: +65 6344 2761 / +65 9633 2833 (Whatsapp only)
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

HOUSE OF PERANAKAN

 Bob Seah, owner of the House of Peranakan group of restaurants, is one of the bulwarks of the local Peranakan food scene. Besides upholding the traditional culinary culture of his heritage, Seah has reinvented multiple dishes without losing the spirit that defines the cuisine. This has accumulated into the introduction of claypot-based Nonya dishes like the Itek Sioh and into Peranakan-inspired items as with the Nonya Crayfish and Assam Prawns.

Still going strong, Seah continues to manoeuvre the kitchens of his establishments, handpicking his produce and experimenting with modern combinations of familiar Peranakan flavours.

103 Frankel Avenue
Singapore 458225
Tel: +65 6445 2404 / 6733 4411
Tue to Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Kembangan
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/indigobluekitchen

INDIGO BLUE KITCHEN

Indigo Blue Kitchen might initially feel like any other respected fine dining establishment with its bright interior and distinct lines. However, when you catch a respite within its walls, the sharpness of the environment softens with the warm service and homespun food, bringing about a relaxation not unlike that of visiting family.

Inspired by the memories of childhood flavours, the dishes here maintain the classic profiles of Peranakan cuisine, with the occasional injection of playfulness to ease the uninitiated into the fare. Despite its assuming appearance, their Nonya popiah is a must-try for its hidden kaleidoscope of flavours.

1 Scotts Road
Shaw Centre, #03-09/10/11
Singapore 228208
Tel: +65 6235 3218
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/whitehouse.indocafe/

INDOCAFE

One of the more alluring facets of Peranakan fare is the fluidity of its fare; drawing influences from foundational Chinese, Indonesian and Malay cuisines, Nonya food can take on a spectrum of flavours, with different iterations drawing more from one base cuisine over others.

Amidst the polished wood and burnished antiques, Indocafe sits in a stately colonial bungalow, The White House. Serving up Peranakan food with heavier Penang influences, patrons can look forward to food hued with a more intricate complexity of flavours. Among their signatures are the quintessential rendang dishes and their lavish version of Assam Laksa.

35 Scotts Road
Singapore 228227
Tel: +65 6733 2656
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Newton

Photo Credit: www.hungrygowhere.com/user/jenifer-tan/bb560b00

NONYA DELICATESSEN

Found in a kiosk-like area by an escalator in Bukit Timah Plaza, Nonya Delicatessen is testament to how a fancy kitchen is welcomed, but unnecessary in preparing genuine and tasty Peranakan food. Maintained by the second generation husband and wife duo, they spend each day preparing the menu through family-inherited traditional techniques.

Especially popular during lunch hour, keep an eye out for their aromatic Nasi Kunyit and luscious Nonya Laksa if you manage to beat the crowd. Complete your meal with some desserts; the nectarous Chendol and Chendol Agar Agar are longstanding crowd favourites.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-K69
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 6469 1166
Mon to Wed, Fri to Sun: 11.30am – 4pm
Thu: 11.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: King Albert Park

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/oldbibik/

OLD BIBIK’S PERANAKAN KITCHEN

Another gem located in the Peranakan enclave of Katong-Joo Chiat, Old Bibik is located on the ground floor of a hole-in-the-wall space along a row of dowdy shophouses. The interior is just as discreet, modestly decorated with marble-top tables and tiled floors; it can be easily mistaken for someone’s grandparents’ dining room if it weren’t for the bright menu hanging in its centre.

A wonderful spot to host family meals at, there are certain dishes that constantly make appearances on the surrounding tables. The foremost is Old Bibik’s Nyonya Curry Chicken, a much-acclaimed dish by regulars and newcomers alike.

328 Joo Chiat Road
#01-02
Singapore 427585
Tel: +65 8450 7996
Mon & Wed to Sun: 12pm – 10pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TheBlueGinger/

THE BLUE GINGER

While Candlenut is the only Michelin-star adorned restaurant thus far, there are other Peranakan establishments that serve just as enthralling fare without needing prospective diners to burn a sizable hole in their wallets.

Fitting this bill is The Blue Ginger, a Bib Gourmand awardee that prides itself in offering Nonya fare that doesn’t compromise on the cuisine’s abundant and nuanced flavours. A favourite by many of Peranakan lineage, but often overlooked for its glitzier cousins by the general masses, their signature Ngoh Hiang and Sotong Keluak might convince you to make this just your new go-to Nonya restaurant.

97 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088518
Tel: +65 6222 3928
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/ThePeranakanSG/

THE PERANAKAN RESTAURANT

True to its moniker, stepping into The Peranakan brings forth no doubt that you’re entering a Nonya abode, given how the place is embellished with constellations of geometric shapes and florals characteristic of traditional Peranakan décor.

Found in Orchard, a meal at The Peranakan is not meant to be a simple affair. Specialising in Tok Panjang, a type of Nonya feast commissioned by affluent Peranakan families to celebrate special and momentous occasions, dining here begets an opulent and elaborate selection of classic Peranakan dishes that will provide a comprehensive and decadent sample of what Straits fare is like.

442 Orchard Road
Claymore Connect, Level 2
Singapore 238879
Tel: +65 6262 4428
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/tingkatpm/

TINGKAT PERAMAKAN

For those familiar with the PeraMakan brand, TingKat PeraMakan is the dressed-down version of its original counterpart, serving a similar spread albeit at more conservative portions and prices. Instead of having a to order a collection of sharing plates, tables can opt to instead subsist on solo portions to better tailor to their individual preferences.

Having a more economical price point does not mean the food is of any lesser quality. Their trademark Buah Keluak is still a delectably creamy delight, and their rendang dishes are equally enrapturing with their fork-pulling tender profiles.

10 Bukit Chermin Road
Keppel Club, Level 3
Singapore 109918
Tel: +65 6377 2829
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@annachung

TOK PANJANG NONYA CAFÉ

Move aside Nonya Delicatessen, you now have competition, and one that is on the same floor! Run by a plucky Peranakan patriarch, do not conflate this eatery with the House of Peranakan’s Tok Panjang lest you incur a (mostly) good-natured telling off by said owner.

Offering a similar spread of local favourites, the difference here is not only stylistic (the food is a tad sweeter) – the portions are heftier, the food is more heartfelt, and the service is a lot more personable. Aside from their beloved mee rebus and mee siam duo, their assortment of kuehs are marvellous as well.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-52C
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 9273 7979
Daily: 9am – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: King Albert Park

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/truebluecuisine/

TRUE BLUE CUISINE

What better way to experience Peranakan culture than by dining within a restored century-old Peranakan mansion? In addition to savouring immaculately prepared Nonya dishes, all diners will have the opportunity to dine among the private collection of fixtures and mantelpieces of a wealthy Peranakan household for a true blue, immersive culinary experience.

After partaking in the restaurant’s Bib Gourmand awarded fare – their Udang Kuah Nanas and Oyster Omelettes are definitely worth a try –  continue your Nonya journey by heading to the Peranakan Museum next door to explore other aspects of the Peranakan culture.

47/49 Armenian Street
Peranakan Museum
Singapore 179937
Tel: +65 6440 0449
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Bras Basah
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

VIOLET OON

A darling of the local Peranakan food scene, Violet Oon has been steadily converting Singaporeans to her outstanding Nonya fare one dish at a time, enamouring palates and hearts alike with her exquisite flavours and elegant visuals. Each outlet is furnished in a contemporary palette and flourished with a liberal incorporation of traditional Peranakan elements.

Coalescing Peranakan classics with the gastronomical muses of her travels, from the refreshing sweetness of her Kuay Pie Tee to the poignant flavours of her flavourful fusion Buah Keluak Pasta, a visit here will bring you on a gastronomical round-the-world trip anchored by the familiar flavours of Nonya cuisine.

2 Orchard Turn
ION Orchard, #03-22
Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 9834 9935
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Boasting high ceilings, a bigger space and decked out in Peranakan-inspired tiles and furnishings, one-Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant Candlenut offers an Omakase menu—which they cheekily call ‘Ahmakase’.

The restaurant has a different, somewhat contemporary approach towards Peranakan cuisine, delving away from traditional methods.

Boasting a wider array of dishes (ranging between S$20 – S$30 each), we got to try a good many dishes, with our favourites being the Blue Swimmer Crab Curry, Turmeric, Galangal, Kaffir Lime Leaf and Westholme Wagyu Beef Rib Rendang, Serunding, Turmeric Leaf.

The Wok Fried Tiger Prawns, Petai Beans, Tamarind, Fried Shallots (S$28++) comes with plenty of crunch from the vegetables and the tamarind provided a sourish tinge to the dish. The prawns were sweet, succulent and complemented the strong flavours of the petai well.

The Blue Swimmer Crab Curry, Turmeric, Galangal, Kaffir Lime Leaf (S$32++) is something that instantly stole our hearts. The dish sees a generous portion of de-shelled crab, so much such that every scoop is riddled with bits, if not chunks, of fleshy crab meat.

The curry is spicy and rich in coconut, but just enough to give you that rich creaminess without overcompensating for the natural sweetness of the crab.

Executed decently but with room to improve, their Homemade Kueh Pie Tee Shell, Braised Local Turnip, Pork Belly, Prawns (S$20++) comes with 4 shells and a platter of ingredients for you to craft your own one-biter.

The ingredients were fresh and immaculately prepared, however, the turnip filling was a tad underwhelming with regards to seasoning. A quality that no amount of sweet sauce nor chilli can do to salvage, unfortunately.

An interesting take on the classic satay, the allure of this dish would be the choice of meat used. Kurobuta pork from Snake River Farm is known to be extremely well-marbled, tender and flavourful.

Licked with a sweet kicap manis glaze every few turns and allowed to develop a deep, caramel-coloured char on the outside, the skewers were truly sublime in both aroma and flavour, penetrating down deep into the meat.

An interesting dessert that comprises one of Nonya cuisines most prized ingredient, the Buah Keluak Ice Cream, Valrhona Chocolate, Chilli, Warm Chocolate Espuma (S$15++) intrigues with its nutty flavour and quirky make-up, that sees granules of pop rocks and chocolate.

Not something we would consider getting a second time, but it’s worth a try for its creativity.

Candlenut
COMO Dempsey
17A Dempsey Road,
Singapore 249676
Tel: +65 1800 304 2288
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Farrer Road

My Cosy Corner is a hole-in-the-wall Peranakan eatery tucked in the corner of Coronation Shopping Plaza, in Bukit Timah.

It is a place where you will feel instantly at home and the staff would occasionally have a friendly conversation with the customers.

Come here for great-tasting Peranakan dishes, local fare and Japanese bento sets.

Due to its rising popularity and limited space, do not be surprised if you see a long queue forming outside the eatery. We were lucky to find a table within 10 minutes of waiting time during off-peak hours.

If there is one thing that made My Cosy Corner famous, it has to be their legendary popiah (S$2.50). Freshly made to order, ours came with thick slices of moist bang kwang (Chinese turnip) and hard boiled egg wrapped in thin popiah skin. We could even hear a delightful crunch coming from the crispy garlic bits as we bit into it.

Amazed by the popiah, we decided to try out some of the other main dishes as well. Laksa at My Cosy Corner is going at S$5 and it comes with a full hard boiled egg, fish cakes and tau pok (beancurd puff). We liked that the broth was rich and there was a distinct coconut taste to it.

The Mee Siam (S$5) is a combination of sweet, spicy and sour notes and made better with small pieces of deep fried tau pok, dried shrimp and a boiled egg. While it left a good impression, we still preferred the other two dishes.

Other items on the menu you can find at My Cosy Corner include Japanese bento and udon dishes such as Gyu Don (S$16), Beef Teriyaki (S$9) and Kaki Udon (S$7.50).

My Cosy Corner
587 Bukit Timah Road
#02-02 Coronation Shopping Plaza
Singapore 269701
Tel: +65 6463 8286
Mon to Sat: 10am – 7pm
Sun & PH: 11am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

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Stepping in to PARKROYAL on Pickering is an experience so impeccable, and its grandeur is one-of-a-kind and unrivalled. This eco-friendly hotel – with a total of 15,000m2 of sky gardens, waterfalls, planter terraces and green walls – boasts a breathtaking metropolitan architecture that has completely changed the Singapore skyline.

Lime, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, is equally alluring. It is always a pleasant to dine and drink there, and be enraptured by the lush tranquility. The food never disappoints, and we could get used to a glass of its signature Limeade every day.

And what keeps our hearts is the lavish buffet spread that is nothing too exorbitantly-priced nor pretentious. Just good, honest food that fuels the soul.

Here are 7 things that we love about the buffet at PARKROYAL on Pickering’s Lime Restaurant.

A STYLISH AND MODERN INTERIOR, WITH A RELAXING AND WELCOMING ATMOSPHERE

Renowned local architect WOHA has done a terrific job in designing Lime. The restaurant is stylish and modern, with a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere. It features high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glass windows. In the day, natural light floods through the glass panels and lights up the space with Mother Nature’s grace and warmth. In the evening, Lime transforms into a cosy sanctuary where you can cast your worries aside, and sink in to the chairs for some post-work rejuvenation.

Dining in this restaurant-in-a-garden is always a welcoming break. It is the kind of place that works well for all occasions: From a casual business luncheon with your clients (just a few minutes away from the centre of the city’s business district), to a date with your partner for some quality time together, a family gathering over hearty chats, a get-together with your friends, or even a much-needed and indulgent me-time.

AUTHENTIC PERANAKAN CLASSIC DISHES BY CHEF NANCY

One of the highlights – and what makes Lime different from the other buffet restaurants – is its Peranakan kitchen.

Retreat to a menu of Peranakan classics lovingly prepared by the prized Chef Nancy Teo – who has deep Peranakan roots – and indulge in a fulfilling lunch of Kueh Pie Tee, Babi Pong Teh, Ayam Buah Keluak, Chap Chye, Bubur Cha-Cha and Durian Pengat Shooter. The colourful treats are prepared with the best ingredients, so that you are reminded of Grandma’s cooking in the most endearing way.

INTERNATIONAL BUFFET SPREAD

From a wide selection of seafood on ice, to Japanese sushi and sashimi, cold cuts, anti-pasti, salads, freshly prepared pastas, Peranakan and local dishes, Thai classics and desserts, Lime’s international buffet spread will satisfy every palate.

The buffet lineup is always on rotation so that even the regulars will be surprised at every visit, but some of the highlights include: Braised Lamb Shank and Pork Rack with Honey Mustard from the International Kitchen; Prawn Paste Chicken and Mango & Yam Roll from the Asian Kitchen; as well as the aforementioned Peranakan dishes. And trust us on this – the Mango & Yam Roll is so good that it is impossible to stop at one!

UNIQUE OPEN-KITCHEN CONCEPT

Trying a Peranakan dish and not too sure what it is? Ask Chef Nancy and she will be more than happy to explain the origin and preparation methods of the dish. Haven’t had pastas in a long time? The chef at the ala minute pasta station will whip up a satisfying bowl of pasta in your favourite combination(s) – choose from a variety of pastas and sauces like Mushroom Creme, Bolognese or Aglio Olio.

Lime at PARKROYAL on Pickering has a unique open kitchen concept with chefs cooking ala minute and always available to interact with you. So don’t feel shy if the curiosity in you is alive. The chefs are more than happy to address your queries and share with you what they know and practice. Story-telling while eating is quite a joy, and to know of the story behind every dish does have a psychological impact on elevating your taste buds, isn’t it?

LIME USES HERBS AND SPICES FROM ITS HERB GARDEN

For those of you who have stayed at PARKROYAL on Pickering before, you would have noticed that there is a community herb garden at a corner of level 5 where the stunning infinity pool is also located. Here, the chefs put their hearts and soul into growing herbs and spices to use in the kitchen for its discerning guests. Lime is committed to using only the best and freshest ingredients for the food that it serves in the daily buffet.

DESSERT HEAVEN THAT WILL MAKE YOUR HEART SKIP A BEAT

The highlight of the amazing dessert buffet spread at Lime is always the green tea chocolate fondue that is every bit photogenic and Intagram-worthy, and goes best with the selection of fresh fruits and marshmallows. We also have an infatuation with the Caramel Cheese Cake, Green Tea Mousse Cake with Azuki Bean and Hazelnut Caramel Cake that are innovative creations by the talented pastry chef at Lime. And oh, you must try the Lime Lemon Tarts. This citrusy treat is more than divine, and oh, what we would pay for a buffet of all-you-can-eat-Lime-Lemon-Tarts!

While the desserts are always on rotation, you can trust that the pastry chef and her team will prepare many marvellous sweet treats to spoil you silly.

ONE OF THE MOST VALUE-FOR-MONEY BUFFETS IN SINGAPORE

These days, buffet prices have rocketed quite a fair bit. But even with its recent introduction of its Peranakan kitchen to the buffet lineup, Lime remains competitively-priced and offers a value-for-money spread. It is surely a worthy treat.

The buffet Lunch at Lime is S$45/pax (S$22.50/child) from Mondays to Fridays, and S$48/pax (S$24) on Saturdays. For the dinner buffet, it is priced at S$58 (S$29) from Mondays to Thursdays, and S$62 (S$31) on Fridays and Saturdays.

Lime
PARKROYAL on Pickering
3 Upper Pickering Street
Tel: +65 6809 8899
Email: lime.prsps@parkroyalhotels.com
Buffet Lunch: 12pm – 2.30pm
Buffet Dinner: 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sunday Brunch: 12pm – 3pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown/Clarke Quay

This post is brought to you by PARKROYAL on Pickering.

PARKROYAL on Pickering is a gem along Chinatown. The eco-friendly hotel boasts a breathtaking metropolitan architecture, and the star restaurant – Lime – is a crowd pleaser no less. With a strong following from the executives and expats working in the vicinity and local families and couples, Lime dishes out delectable spreads every day for its fans. While the lunch and dinner buffet is particularly popular among its business crowd, Lime has come up with a sweet deal for those who still love dining at the gorgeous establishment – minus the food coma from a heavy lunch.

That’s what buffets always do to us, right? We eat our lunch hour away with all the cold cuts, pastas, cakes and whatnot. And we rub our bellies happily as we leave, only to realize that lunch will have us feeling all restless and dazed when we get back to our desks. So that is why Lime’s new Nonya Set Lunch got our attention, and we thought it couldn’t be a more brilliant idea!

Beginning from the month of September, the Nonya Set (S$38++) will entice with a Peranakan charm. Individually plated and with a variety of five tantalising dishes, the Nonya Set is specially conceptualised by Lime with the idea of satisfying your cravings for all things Peranakan in a comfortable and laidback environment. Retreat to a menu of Peranakan classics lovingly prepared by the prized Chef Nancy Teo – who has deep Peranakan roots – and indulge in a fulfilling lunch of Kueh Pie Tee, Bakwan Kepiting Soup, Babi Pong Teh, Ayam Buah Keluak, Chap Chye, Bubur Cha-Cha and Durian Pengat Shooter.

It is the perfect dining option – be it a business luncheon or if you are introducing overseas friends to Peranakan cuisine. It saves you the hassle of walking to and fro for your food, and it is never as messy as a buffet can get. But if you still love your all-you-can-eat style, you will be delighted to know that an additional Peranakan section has been added on to restaurant’s daily buffet spread, so you get to enjoy free flow of all these Nonya treats from Lime at PARKROYAL on Pickering Singapore.

The Nonya Set is available daily during lunch and dinner at S$38++ per person.

Lime
PARKROYAL on Pickering
3 Upper Pickering Street
Tel: +65 6809 8899
Email: lime.prsps@parkroyalhotels.com
Sun to Thu: 6.30am – 12am
Fri, Sat & Eve of PH: 6.30am – 2am
Nearest Station: Chinatown/Clarke Quay

This post is brought to you by PARKROYAL on Pickering.

The giveaway is now closed. Thank you for participating. The winners are #401, #254, #15, #198, and #152. I will be contacting you via email shortly after.

From 16 – 25 March, Azur Restaurant at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport is presenting a special true-blue Peranakan buffet by Guest Chef Kenny Chan.

Some of the Peranakan dishes include the signature Ayam Buah Keluak (stuffed Indonesian black nut with chicken), Babi Pong Teh (braised pork in salted bean paste), Ikan Goreng Cili (fried fish with sambal), Nyonya Chap Chye, Telur Cincalok (fermented shrimp omelette), and Nyonya Cendol.

So here’s the good news. The kind folks at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport has kindly agreed to give 5 couples the chance to try the Peranakan buffet ($55++ for weekday dinner, and $65++ for weekend dinner). All you need to do is to answer a question by leaving a comment.

As usual, remember to ask your foodie friends to join the giveaway by sharing via the tweet and facebook buttons so that you guys have more chances of winning!

How to enter Crowne Plaza Peranakan Buffet Giveaway

1. Five winners will get to bring along a guest to go for the Peranakan Buffet at Azur Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Changi Airport.

2. Answer this question by leaving a comment below: What is your favourite Peranakan food?

3. Azur Crowne Plaza Peranakan Buffet giveaway is open to Singapore residents only.

4. A random generator will be used, everyone has an equal chance of winning.

5. Giveaway ends on 4th Mar 2012 Sunday 12 noon. Winners will be notified by email.

6. Note that comments are moderated, they will only appear after I approve it. Please do not submit more than once.

Azur Restaurant is located at 75 Airport Boulevard, 2nd Floor Crowne Plaza Hotel (Next to Changi Airport T3) Tel: +65 6823 5354.

Full Disclosure & Fine Print: This is not an advertorial, no monetary benefits were received for this giveaway.

Singapore is a foodie paradise. It is not exaggerating to say that eating is part of the Singapore Spirit. Since we will be celebrating National day in a month’s time, I thought it would be nice to write about some of the must-eats in Singapore.

Here’s my list of 10 Things to Eat in Singapore.

For first time visitors, it is a must to try all the popular hawker food from places like Chomp Chomp Hawker Centre and Old Airport Road Market. If you are willing to spend more on food, Singapore has many excellent fine dining restaurants, like Les Amis and Iggy’s. And of course, we mustn’t forget about the Celebrity Chefs Restaurants like Waku Ghin, Santi, CUT at the swanky Marina Bay Sands; Osia and L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon at Resorts World Sentosa.

However, I’ll not be including Singapore’s best restaurants in this post. Instead, I want to share about some of the food that I miss whenever I am out of town. For non-food recommendations, please read my list of 10 Things to do in Singapore.

Chicken Rice

If you ask around which is the most famous Singapore food, chances are, people will reply with either chilli crab or chicken rice.

Amongst the many good chicken rice stalls in Singapore, I’d suggest going to either Tian Tian Hainanese chicken rice or Boon Tong Kee. I like Tian Tian’s chicken rice, but I hate the queue. If you are lazy to queue like me, go to Maxwell market before or after lunch hour. Tian Tian is definitely one of the best chicken rice in Singapore.

Boon Tong Kee, on the other hand, is a tricky one. Many people would argue that it is a commercialised restaurant, and there are probably lots of places that have better chicken rice. Let me explain. With six branches around the island, Boon Tong Kee is much more accessible, and you can have your chicken rice in a clean environment (not everyone is willing to brave the heat in hawker centre). It is a relatively safe option to bring your overseas visitors there for their first taste of our famous Singapore chicken rice.

Boon Tong Kee
425 River Valley Road
Tel: +65 6736 3213

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
Maxwell Road #01-10 Maxwell Food Centre

Chilli Crab

As mentioned, Chilli Crab is probably the most famous Singapore food. It is the face of Singapore Cuisine, the must-try food for tourists. You cannot visit Singapore without having Chili Crab. There are many Chinese seafood restaurants in Singapore serving this popular dish, but my favourite is No Signboard at Geylang.

Fresh meaty crabs in a spicy-sweet chili sauce with deep-fried mantou – this is one of the most satisfying experiences in life.

No Signboard Seafood
414 Geylang Road
Tel: +65 6842 3415

Kaya Toast

Kaya is a coconut jam made from coconut milk, eggs which are flavoured by pandan leaf and sweetened with sugar. It is easily one of the best jam spread ever created.

Spread the kaya on the toast with a generous slab of butter – this is a very delicious thing for breakfast, tea, or supper. All you need is kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs and a cup of coffee. This is the best local breakfast.

Chin Mee Chin Confectionery
204 East Coast Road Singapore

Ya Kun Kaya Toast Singapore
18 China Street #01-01
Far East Square Singapore
Tel: +65 6438 3638

Tropical Fruits

There are plenty of tropical fruits to eat in Singapore, so it is a good idea to head to the markets if you are not from the region. Some of the must-try fruits are: rambutans, mangosteen, longan, lychee, durian, and mango.

Even though I hate durian, I think it’s a pretty cool experience to visit Geylang and sit by the roadside to try the king of fruits.

Fish Head Curry

Fish Head Curry is a dish created by Singapore’s Malayalee. Cooked in a hot and spicy Indian curry, the large fish head is usually eaten with white rice or bread. Try the one from Muthu’s Curry at Race Course road.

Muthu’s Curry
138 Race Course Road #01-01 Singapore
Tel: +65 6392 1722

Laksa

Laksa has a rich coconut-based curry soup with rice noodles alongside ingredients like cockles, shrimp, tau pok and fish cake.

The first time I had a bowl of laksa (many years ago) was a total revelation. It was like taking a plane for the first time; the first sip of champagne, or having the first ever taste of foie gras. It was something very special.

Without a doubt, Laksa is one of the Singapore’s must-eats.

328 Katong Laksa
51 East Coast Road Singapore
Tel: +65 9732 8163

Zi Char

Zi Char (also known as Zhi Char/Cze Char/Tze Char) is a Chinese stall (in a coffee shop) that serves a variety of ala carte dishes at affordable prices. Different ‘restaurants’ have their own unique signature dishes, but a typical zi char place will usually has the following: meat items – pork ribs, har cheong gai ($8 – $20); vegetables – sambal kangkong, kailan ($6 – $12), side dishes – beancurd, noodles, rice ($4 – $20) ; and seafood – prawn, fish, crabs ($15 upwards).

There are many good zi char places in Singapore, but I’d recommend Holland Village XO Fish Head Bee Hoon (for har cheong gai), Keng Eng Kee Seafood and for a slightly more upmarket option, Ming Kee Live Seafood.

Holland Village XO Fish Head Bee Hoon
Jumbo Coffee Hub
Blk 19A Dover Crescent

Keng Eng Kee Seafood
Blk 124 Bukit Merah Lane 1
#01-136 Alexandra Village Singapore
Tel: +65 6272 1038

Ming kee Live Seafood
556 Macpherson Road Singapore
Tel: +65 6747 4075

Peranakan Cuisine

Peranakan Cuisine, also known as Nyonya food, is the result of blending Chinese ingredients and wok cooking techniques with spices used by the Malay/Indonesian community. There are plenty of Peranakan restaurants in Singapore serving fantastic nyonya food, you can check out the fairly new Candlenut Kitchen by Malcolm lee – one of the up and coming chefs in Singapore; and Ivin’s – a popular and no frills place for families to have dinner.

Candlenut Kitchen
25 Neil Road Singapore
Tel: +65 6226 2506

Ivin’s
19 Binjai Park Singapore
Tel: +65 6468 3060

Dim Sum

Hong Kong might be the land of dim sum, but I feel that some restaurants in Singapore serve very good dim sum too. I’m sure everyone knows by now: my favourite dim sum restaurants in Singapore are Royal China at Raffles Hotel, Yanting Restaurant at St Regis, and Taste Paradise at Ion Orchard.

Royal China
1 Beach Road
#03-09 Raffles Hotel
Tel: +65 6338 3363

Taste Paradise Ion Orchard
2 Orchard Turn
#04-07 ION Orchard
Tel: +65 6509 9660

Yan Ting Restaurant
29 Tanglin Road
The St Regis
Tel: +65 6506 6888

Char Kway Teow

“What food do you miss the most when you are away from Singapore?”

This is a simple question. My answer is definitely Char Kway Teow. The stir-fried noodle is artery clogging, but it is very, very tasty! For me, the best char kway teow in Singapore will be the one from Zion Road. You MUST EAT it!

No 18 Zion Road Fried Kway Teow
Zion Road Riverside Food Centre

I wrote this list of 10 Things to eat in Singapore for the NDP 2011 Official Website, but this is not a sponsored blog post and I have not received any monetary benefits in return. That said, I got two tickets to the NDP preview and I’ll be writing a second post to share more about the Singapore spirit during the parade.

Besides all the good food, what do you think defines the Singapore spirit? Share your thoughts at the NDP website and NDPeeps Facebook page!