It’s only been a few weeks since Isaac Toast announced its plans to open in Singapore but the wait has been agonising. But all’s good now because Isaac Toast will begin operations at Plaza Singapura from tomorrow (15 July 2018) onwards!

This popular Korean toast chain is famous for their breakfast toasts that come in an assortment of flavours which include the likes of ham & cheese, bulgogi and more. Locals and tourists alike love their sandwiches for the over-the-top fillings and crisp bread slices.

We had a sneak peek of their menu before they officially open so carry on reading to find out more!

From their MVP Series, patrons are treated to savoury gourmet sandwiches such as Double Spicy Cutlet, Hot Chicken MVP, Bulgogi MVP, Shrimp MVP and Hot Tteokgalbi MVP.

We came to a consensus that the Double Spicy Cutlet stole the limelight. Comprising a thick chunk of chicken cutlet, barbecue sauce and shredded cabbage for that added crunch, every bite of this decadent sandwich was flavourful.

One of our other favourite at Isaac Toast is their Ham & Cheese, which comes with ham, savoury omelette and cheese in between two slices of toasted bread.

Other flavours you can find include the Steak Ham, Ham Special and Ham & Cheese—simple recipes that will leave your tummy and taste buds satisfied.

Coffee, tea and fruit smoothies make up Isaac Toast’s beverage menu; you can go for an Americano, Cappuccino, Earl Grey Tea or cold drinks such as Strawberry & Banana Smoothie and Iced Tea.

Isaac Toast Singapore
68 Orchard Road
B2-42, Plaza Singapura
Singapore 238839
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

Isaac Toast—popular Korean toast chain—is opening in Singapore at Plaza Singapura level B2 in mid-July 2018.

For those of you who are not familiar with Isaac Toast, it is known for its breakfast toast—savoury toasted sandwiches with fillings that include ham & cheese and bulgogi. There are different variations of toasts, of course.

Every toast is prepared upon order. You pick your preferred fillings, and the slices of bread will be toasted to a right level of crisp before the fresh fillings are piled on.

Photos credit: Isaac Toast Malaysia

Long queues are evident at almost every Isaac Toast outlet in Seoul daily. Despite its origins of being a breakfast item, Isaac Toasts are eaten throughout the day now; the queues do not simply stop once breakfast hours are over. Today, Isaac Toast is arguably one of the most famous all-day street snacks in Seoul.

Issac Toast current has over 700 retail stores in South Korea as well as overseas outlets in Macau, Taiwan and Malaysia. Issac Toast Singapore is brought in by local company Altitude Holdings—which is also behind Yoogane Singapore.

Issac Toast Singapore
Plaza Singapura B2
68 Orchard Road, Singapore 238839

One thing that all foodies can agree on is that we are constantly on a see-food diet and there is no stopping us when a feast of tantalising seafood is laid before us. The joy of getting down and dirty with crabs, mussels and prawns is so appealing and should this experience come at an affordable price tag, what is there not to love?

Located on Level 3 at the new extension of Plaza Singapura, Cajun On Wheels is a Halal-certified seafood diner serving unadulterated and fresh seafood in true American fashion. This is their second outlet—after their first food truck at Pasarbella Suntec City—and you would be delighted to know that their menu at Plaza Singapura is exclusive to that outlet too.

As its name says, Cajun On Wheels is a Cajun-themed diner and you can expect all dishes on its menu to pack a punch.

A UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE

As our mantra goes, why settle for less when you can have more?

An unconventional dining experience awaits at Cajun On Wheels, where you can order your food from a gourmet food truck. This translates to a fuss-free dining experience that is good for both solo diners and group gatherings.

MENU EXCLUSIVE TO PLAZA SINGAPURA

In contrast to their first outlet at Pasarbella, Cajun On Wheels at Plaza Singapura has taken things up a notch by with the addition of succulent beef burgers and platters for sharing to its menu.

And this month, this Louisana seafood restaurant will be introducing a few new seafood dishes. Excited? Yes, you should be.

FEAST WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Indulging in seafood is not the same if you don’t get your hands dirty in the process of ripping out fresh and juicy meat from the seafood galore before you.

Head down to Cajun On Wheels with your family and friends and partake in their incredible selection of seafood buckets that are great for sharing. Here is a little glimpse of what you can enjoy. 

POSEIDON BUCKET

You either go big or go home. Serious seafood lovers searching for big and bold flavours should begin your meal with the Poseidon Bucket (S$115) that would be good for sharing among 2 to 3 persons.

And we are pleased to tell you that the Poseidon Bucket (S$115) lived up to its hype. Comprising Sri Lanka Crab 600g, Prawns 300g, White Clams 300g, Mussels 300g, Sweet Corn, Potatoes and Chicken Spam, this is surely one value-for-money bucket that we thoroughly enjoyed. 

A tip from us is to pour out the Poseidon Bucket onto the table before you. Not only will it be a party in your mouth, it will be visually arresting as well. We enjoyed ours with Spicy Cheesy Soil.

Did you know that Cajun On Wheels only uses live crabs in its seafood dishes so as to retain the maximum freshness of each crab? This is how you know you are getting what you paid for. 

THE NAUGHTY PLATTER

The Naughty Platter (S$33.90) is another dish that is great for sharing. But if you are hungry (or naughty) enough, we trust that you could probably have the whole thing yourself.

The Naughty Platter comes with deep-fried squid, sea bass, tiger prawns and a choice of pilaf rice or aglio olio pasta.

THE INCRAWDIBLES

Now, let us present to you Cajun On Wheels’ latest addition to their menu—The Incrawdibles (S$42 for 500g, S$79 for 1kg). When we first laid eyes on the bucket, we were impressed by the sheer portion of crawfish that was served.

Like the Poseidon Bucket, unleash your inner beast as you feast over the red spectacle laid before you. The Old Bay Seasoning may look spicy but it is not. Its taste bore more resemblance to a slightly tangy tomato sauce immersed with a variety of western herbs. Delicious, in every sense.

FEAST BY YOURSELF

Even if your family or friends are not up to some seafood feasting, there is nothing to stop you from doing so. Cajun On Wheels offers various ocean boxes for individuals to eat like a king.

FISH AND TORPEDO PRAWN OCEAN BOX

The Fish and Torpedo Prawn Ocean Box (S$10.90 for a la carte; S$12.90 for a set) is one ocean box that allows diners to customise their own box and create their own seafood fantasy.

All you have to do is choose a seafood, a side (fries, sweet potato fries, purple coleslaw, corn, aglio olio or rice pilaf), and a sauce from Cajun On Wheels’ selection and you will be good to go.

SEA BASS FISH ROLL

Another new face to Cajun On Wheels’ menu at Plaza Singapura is the Fish Roll (S$13.90) which comes with a side of sweet potato fries.

Dished out with herb and butter sauce over the fish, the Sea Bass Fish Roll would be suitable for smaller eaters who don’t want to miss out on the quality of seafood that Cajun On Wheels has to offer.

CRUSTY C.O.W. BURGER LOBSTER & BEEF

As we mentioned earlier, Cajun On Wheels has added succulent beef burgers to their menu at Plaza Singapura and one burger to try is the Crusty C.O.W. Burger Lobster & Beef (S$39.90).

On top of coming with a 100% premium beef patty, the Crusty C.O.W. Burger Lobster & Beef 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.

Diners can also top up an additional S$3.90 to complete their burger with 1 drink and 1 side (Cajun fries, sweet potato fries or purple coleslaw) of their choice.

FULL SAMPLING OF ALL SIX SAUCES

For those of you who crave a little more flavour in your meal, why not top-up for one of Cajun On Wheels’ sauces? A total of 6 sauces are available for your picking, and this includes Singapore Chilli Egg (S$3), Chilli Crab (S$3), Salted Egg Yolk (S$3), Thai Red Curry (S$2), Butter and Herb (S$2) and Spicy Cheese Soil (S$2).

But our favourites of the lot have to be the Salted Egg Yolk and the Spicy Cheese Soil. The former was so creamy and rich but with the right amount of spiciness due to the incorporation of fried curry leaves and chilli padi. The latter was similarly as rewarding as its velvety texture and herb and spice flavours brought another dimension of flavours to the palate.

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

This post is brought to you by Cajun On Wheels.

Plaza Singapura is where you will go to for a quick retail fix after a long day at work. Other than retail items and familiar brand names, Plaza Singapura also houses a large array of eateries to feed your tummy after a long day. There are so many dining choices here to choose from!

Here, we have compiled this Plaza Singapura Food Directory which gives you a list of all the food places. You can now dine without the worry of excessive Googling on phone numbers or opening hours.

4 FINGERS CRISPY CHICKEN

#B1-07 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6338 0631
Daily: 11am – 10pm

85 REDHILL TEOCHEW FISHBALL NOODLE

#B2-39 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Daily: 10am – 10pm

DAEBAK KOREAN FOOD EXPRESS

#B2-44 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Daily: 11am – 10pm

HOT TOMATO EXPRESS

#B2-40 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6341 9162
Daily: 11am – 10pm

HOSHINO COFFEE
#03-84 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6338 3277
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm

LET’S MEAT UP

#B1-08 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6835 7832
Daily: 11am – 10pm

LOKKEE
#03-01 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 4566
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm

MANNA STORY

#B2-22 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6238 1245
Daily: 10am – 9pm

MOS BURGER

#B1-01 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6883 0026
Daily: 10am – 10pm

MUCHOS MEXICAN BAR & RESTAURANT

#01-34 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 6884
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 1am

NAMNAM NOODLE BAR

#B1-55 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6837 2252
Daily: 10am – 9.30pm

NANA’S GREEN TEA

#03-80/82 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6684 4312
Daily: 11am – 10pm

NANDO’S

#04-10/11 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6337 2555
Daily: 10am – 10pm

NANJING IMPRESSIONS

#04-46 to 51 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6352 7877
Daily: 11am – 10pm

OLD CHANG KEE

#B2-02 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6341 9650
Daily: 11am – 10pm

OLD STREET BAK KUT TEH

#B2-07 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6759 1082
Daily: 10am – 10pm

PAPPARICH

#01-32/35 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6735 9323
Daily: 10am – 11pm

PATBINGSOO

#B2-47 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 9181 3038
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm

PIZZA HUT

#B2-01 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6334 3757
Daily: 11am – 10pm

POPBAR

#B2-64 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 9368 6678
Daily: 10.30am – 10pm

Photo Credit: sapporolionsg

RIVE GAUCHE PATISSERIE

#B2-57 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6341 9936
Daily: 10am – 10pm

SAKAE SUSHI TAKEAWAY

#B2-52/54 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6337 5676
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm

SAKAE TEPPANYAKI

#B2-52/54 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6337 5676
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm

SAYBONS – BY FRENCH FOOD FACTORY

#B2-32 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 9018
Mon to Sat: 9.30am – 10pm
Sun: 9.30am – 9.30pm

SECRET RECIPE

#03-18 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6341 9909
Daily: 11am – 10pm

Photo Credit: plazasingapura

SEORAE

#02-01 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 9181 2709
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm

SHITAMACHI TENDON AKIMITSU

#04-65/68 Plaza Singapura,
68 Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6264 3390
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm

SIMPLY WRAPPS

#B2-26 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6684 0930
Daily: 8am – 9.30pm

SKINNY PIZZA

#03-79/83 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 8381
Daily: 11am – 10pm

SNACKZ IT

#B2-46 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6325 4508
Daily: 10am – 10pm

SNAFFLES

#B2-56 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 6077
Daily: 10am – 9.30pm

STARBUCKS

#01-34B/53 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6910 1153
Daily: 24 hours

SUKI-YA

#04-63/67 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 5423
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm

SWENSEN’S

#03-23 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6837 0650
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm

TANGZAI

#B2-45 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Daily: 11am – 10pm

TEPPEI SYOKUDO

#B2-20 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6266 6382
Daily: 11am – 8pm

THAIEXPRESS

#03-24 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6339 5442
Daily: 10am – 10pm

THE MANHATTAN FISH MARKET

#06-07 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6835 9300
Daily: 11am – 10pm

THE SOUP SPOON

#03-21 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6338 9894
Daily: 11am – 10pm

THE DRAGON CHAMBER
#03-02 Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 4566
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm

TIM HO WAN

#01-29A Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6251 2000
Daily: 10am – 10pm

TORI-Q

#B4-53 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6509 1127
Daily: 11am – 10pm

TSUKADA NOJO

#03-81 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6336 5003
Daily: 11.30am – 3.30pm, 5pm – 10pm

UYI SAVOURY SQUIDS

#B2-42 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6555 9101
Daily: 10am – 10pm

WANG CAFE

#B2-35/36 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 5096
Daily: 7.30am – 9.30pm

WOOW

#01-K1 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6336 3633
Daily: 11am – 10.30pm

WOW TAKO

#B2-41 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6238 8435
Daily: 10am – 10pm

XIN WANG HONGKONG CAFE

#06-08/09/10 Plaza Singapura
68, Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 8698
Mon to Fri, Eve of PH: 11am – 11pm
Sat & Sun, PH: 10am – 11pm

An award-winning tempura and tendon restaurant from Asakusa, Tokyo—Shitamatchi Tendon Akimitsu has opened in Singapore with its first outlet at Plaza Singapura.

With more than 128 years of culinary experience, Shitamatchi Tendon Akitmisu promises to impress all diners with authentic tempura and tendon. Furthermore, Chef Tanihara Akimitsu, the founder of Akitmitsu and 5th-generation head chef of Dote No Iseya, had flown over to Singapore to personally provide training to the crew at its Plaza Singapura outlet. Now, that is some dedication.

Excited to have a taste of their famous recipe, we made our way down to their Plaza Singapura outlet on their grand opening day. We’d go out on a limb and say that this is one of the best places to have tendon in Singapore.

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Of course, we had to begin our meal with Akimitsu’s Signature Tendon (S$14.90) which features tempura-battered prawn, white fish, egg, seaweed, assorted vegetables and rice covered with their original Tendon sauce. In addition, it comes with a portion of chawanmushi and miso soup on the side.

Diners can choose either the Asakusa Original Sauce—recommended by the eatery—or the Spicy Sauce to go with their tendon. And did we mention that your meal comes with free-flow pickles too?

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At first glance, the portion of ingredients served with Akimitsu’s Signature Tendon deserved much praise. Generous, fresh and perfectly deep fried ingredients; what more could we ask for in a tendon? Even more so at S$14.90, an award-winning, premium quality tendon at an affordable price was quite a treat.

Love your protein? The Ebi Tendon (S$17.90) would be a good and delicious option to have. Comprising solely of prawn tempura, the Ebi Tendon also came with chawanmushi and miso soup on the side. Just as crispy, just as tasty, this dish will be worth throwing your diet away for.

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Other tendon you can try at Shitamachi Tendon Akimitsu include the Kakiage Tendon (S$15.90) and Vegetable Tendon (S$12.90). If not, shake things up a little with the Mixed Tempura Rice Set (S$16.90) and the Kakiage Tencha (S$17.90).

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At Shitamachi Tendon Akimitsu, diners can expect nothing but authentic and spectacular Japanese cuisine. However, do note that Shitamatchi Tendon Akimitsu will get rather crowded during dinner time, so it is advised that you visit early to secure a spot at this quaint Japanese restaurant.

Shitamatchi Tendon Akimitsu
68 Orchard Road, #04-65/68 Plaza Singapura,
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6264 3390
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

Read: Best Tendon Restaurants in Singapore

Located on the 3rd storey of Plaza Singapura is American-Chinese establishment Lokkee that is not just your ordinary Chinese restaurant. It is worth mentioning that the up-and-coming gourmet eatery is successfully pushing the boundaries of traditional Chinese cuisine – without compromising on key oriental ingredients – and introducing a tantalising variety of revamped Asian classics that will impress even the most discerning diners. Expect unique renditions of steamed baos, spicy Sichuan diced chicken and whatnot.

Lending flavours from all over the world, Lokkee exudes a subtle touch of the West, but its interior and food remain inherently Chinese. Our feast at Lokkee surprised us pleasantly from very start to the end, and we would gladly return in a heartbeat for the impressive food and sexy ambience.

If you are running out of ideas on where to dine at for non-mainstream Chinese food, then you have to check Lokkee out – this mind-blowing dining concept that serves extraordinary modern Chinese food at Plaza Singapura will be a meal you won’t soon forget.

With eye-catching decors of auspicious red hues, Lokkee does come across as a typical oriental restaurant at first glance, until we laid our eyes on the kinky packaging of wet tissues and hilarious fortune cookies. Did you also notice the drawings of Chinese-fied superheroes on the wall? We love those!

The branding of the restaurant is truly bold, but behind the façade is a multitalented third-culture culinary team that is redefining traditional notions of Chinese food. You may spot familiar names on the menu, but do not be too quick to conclude anything for the execution may well take you by surprise and redefine Chinese cuisine altogether.

The best appetizer on the menu? Most definitely the Chilli Crab Cakes (S$16++) served in an entree portion of two small pieces. The light and crunchy panko crust instantly reminded us of Japanese croquettes, except that it is filled with Singapore’s national dish in shredded forms, and served with a spicy sauce that well complements the fried goodness.

Succulent and juicy, yet crackling crispy on the outside, we love how the value-for-money 5 Spice Crispy Pork Belly (S$12++) is another appetizer to share. Roasted to perfection and boasting a delightful contrast of textures, this sinful dish will be worth the extra rounds of jog.

The Lokkee Egg Drop Soup is a nourishing broth boiled with chicken, eggs and shredded crabmeat. Available in either small (S$6++) or regular (S$16++), Lokkee’s piping hot soup is also thickened with cornstarch for a viscous body. The egg-based soup is interestingly presented in a ceramic pot that resembles ancient Chinese cauldrons.

There are many interesting looking dishes at Lokkee, and the 3 Egg Pyramid Broccoli (S$16++) tops the list. Like your usual veggies in 3 eggs, this dish uses a romanesque broccoli that has been sculpted to resemble a pyramid. The giant bright green vegetable sits in a bowl of fragrant thick sauce made with three different kinds of eggs – regular chicken eggs, century and salted eggs.

While some may resist unorthodox fusion dishes due to fear of inauthenticity, Lokkee makes it a point to retain the fundamental elements of timeless classics. We had a great time devouring their Firecracker Chicken Nest (S$24++), which is essentially deep-fried diced chicken served with Sichuan-style dried chillies. See those egg yolks? Well, they are actually mango puree encapsulated in molecular gastronomic spheres. These spherical “mango yolks” explode in your mouth and are intended as palate cleansers.

The most attention-grabbing dish award goes to the Flaming Pineapple Beef (S$28++). Watch in awe as the thorny fruit is blowtorched and engulfed in flames, and that adds flavour to the beef stew that sits within the pineapple. The result is fork tender beef slices with a fruity hint, and a table of impressed diners.

We also loved the Lokkee’s Stir-Fried Lamb Pockets (S$23), that was surprisingly free from the overwhelming gamey smell. The marinated lamb loin have been stir-fried in Chu Hou paste and diners are to stuff the tender fillets into the sweet bun pockets as fillings.

Savour the Baked Oysters with Bacon (S$22++), which comprises a plate of six fresh oysters baked au gratin served with a lime and lemon wedge. The bacon bits and cooked cheese along with a dash of lemon and lime juice have actually significantly reduced the overall brininess of oysters.

Revel in the F4 (S$32++) too! No, not the disbanded Taiwanese boy band. This impeccable seafood dish is actually named after the gastronomic technique of Flash Frying Fish Fillets (get it?). The fish fillets are fried briefly in chilli oil and the end result is scrumptiously delicate pieces that reminded us of the classic Sichuan Boiled Fish (shui zhu yu).

The Sichuan ‘Mala’ Grilled Fish (S$58++) is a chef-recommended wholesome delicacy too. The grilled fish is placed in a sizzling hot clear water bath and served with cabbage, dried chillies, green peppercorns and tofu skin. Great for families to share!

Lokkee’s palm-size steamed buns were inspired by celebrity chef Eddie Huang’s Bao Haus, but we reckon they resembled Momofuku’s baos more. The key distinguishing factor lies in the thickness of the buns – Lokkee’s baos are notably thin and are served on a bamboo woven basket.

All baos are served in pairs and the signature baos are Pork Crackling Bao (S$13++) and Colonel San Da’s Chicken Bao (S$12++). The former is a crispy pork crackling with fermented beancurd sauce. The latter, as you might have guessed from the name, is a fried chicken with maple gravy.

By the way, why the name, right? You must be wondering. Remember who Colonel Sanders is? Yes, Lokkee has a Colonel San Da for their version of fried chicken. LOVE IT.

Relish in the sinful Bacon Delight (S$12++) that boasts butterscotch and bacon infused ice-cream sitting in a deep-fried hot crunchy bread bowl drizzled with raspberry and chocolate sauce. If you think that is all, you are wrong. Candied bacon strips and real bacon bits make up a significant part of the exotic dessert and bacon lovers really do have to give this a go.

Trust us when we say that the experimental desserts will have you doing a double take. The Custard Egg Rolls (S$10++) look exactly like deep-fried spring rolls, except that they tasted nothing like it.

The sweet dipping puree served on the side is made from berries and carrot, but could be easily mistaken from chilli or ketchup instead. How brilliant is the presentation! Enjoy a good laugh as your dining companions start questioning about a potential “wrong order”.

From Cantonese to Shandong, it is immensely difficult to categorise the various diverse Chinese cuisines into one category. But one characteristic remains true for almost all Chinese restaurants’ takeaways in global cities such as New York City, London and Sydney.

Yes, it is the famous Chinese takeout box! What piqued our attention is that Lokkee has decided to serve their Chow Mien (S$14++) in those wire handle boxes too. Western expats will find eating the stir-fried noodles with celery, char siew, carrots and shredded chicken awfully nostalgic.

The complex Asian cuisine has transformed dramatically over the years and gained a legacy of fans across the world. Chinese food is no longer synonymous with greasy stores, appalling services and cheap takeouts. We are now seeing an increasing number of celebrated Chinese gourmet restaurants across metropoles.

Lokkee has managed to showcase the evolved genre of Chinese fare through its excellent craftsmanship and it would be an eye-opening experience for Singaporeans who have yet to sample the different variations of Chinese food abroad.

Lokkee
Plaza Singapura
#03-01, 68 Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 4566
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

This post is brought to you by TungLok Group.

Fans of Arteastiq Boutique Tea House and Painting Studio, we have a piece of good news for you. If you cannot get enough of this unique hangout location that has predominantly earned its spotlight at Mandarin Gallery, you will be heartened to know that Arteastiq has unveiled its second location at Plaza Singapura, catering a new space for tea appreciation and art jamming sessions.

The new outlet at Plaza Singapura will boast a setting with an exquisite and pleasant charm, accommodating a space that is befitting for a quaint tea session away from the bustle of the city. Just like its flagship outlet, the teahouse will be furnished with the colour themes of black and white with gold accents to further complement the elaborate tea experience.

For those who cannot wait to get their creative juices flowing, you can also head on to their art jamming studio located adjacent to the tea lounge and work on your paintings – an activity which will prove as an unconventional way of jotting down new fond memories.

Arteastiq takes pride in churning out plates of impeccable quality while spoiling diners with its eclectic menu choices. Here at the new outlet, look forward to dishes that are Inspired by cuisines from around the world.

The menu is divided into two segments – mainly “Ladies Affair” and “Gentleman’s Dinner” – because there are different palate patterns for both genders, right? With more delicate food items set for the ladies and a more robust menu for the men, we suggest you gather your friends and your loved ones, and head on down to indulge in some home styled goodness in the very pretty Arteastiq!

Arteastiq Boutique Tea House
#03-70/72 Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6336 0951
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

This post is brought to you by Arteastiq Boutique Tea House.

For so long now, Hoshino Coffee at Plaza Singapura has been a favourite among shoppers and executives in the area. The queues are always long, and their popularity is no surprise. But if you do not want to join the queue, then venture further to the new Capitol Piazza as Hoshino Coffee has recently opened an outlet there.

Tucked away in a secluded area of Capitol Piazza’s Basement 2, Hoshino Coffee remains under the radar and is a serene place to enjoy a meal and to catch up with friends. The Japanese establishment is famous for their coffee and desserts, but what remains relatively unknown to most people is that they do serve a delectable variety of wholesome savoury dishes at very affordable prices.

Here is our take on the 13 items that you must try at Hoshino Coffee’s new flagship outlet at Capitol Piazza, and we are pretty certain you will fall in love too.

#1 FUWA FUWA HOSHINO SOUFFLÉ

Probably one we will return for, the Fuwa Fuwa Hoshino Soufflé (S$15.80) is famed for its wobbly golden hue puffy top. Dig through the eggy fluff and a bed of rice infused with cheese, mushroom slices, chunks of bacon, and tomato sauce awaits. The portion of this baked dish is huge and we think it is best to be share it with someone.

#2 PIE PIZZA

Pie Pizza is, well, a hybrid of a pie and pizza. Made with mainly flaky and buttery puff pastry, these fusion creations are significantly less dense than the traditional pizza. Each Pie Pizza (S$15) comes with a side salad, minestrone soup and wedges. There are only two flavours at the moment – mushroom & chicken and mixed flavours. But they are good enough, trust us. These Pie Pizzas are also exclusive to Capitol Piazza’s outlet.

#3 TONKATSU TOAST

Last but certainly not the least, Hoshino Coffee did an exceptional job with their mouthwatering Tonkatsu Toast (S$11.80). The delightful deep-fried breaded pork and shredded vegetables were sandwiched between two toasted breads, and each each bite reminded us of the ones we had in Japan.

#4 SALMON SPAGHETTI

Hoshino Coffee’s menu also boasts a variety of spaghetti options and a perennial customers’ favourite is the Salmon with Wasabi Cream Sauce (S$16). Served on a white oval dish, the Japanese cream-based pasta is prepared with shiitake mushrooms, shredded seaweed, salmon chunks, bits of spicy wasabi and a dash of sesame seeds. Lots of flavours in one dish, indeed!

#5 POT-BAKED CURRY RICE

Hoshino Coffee’s Pot-Baked Curry Rice (S$15) is served piping hot on a sizzling hot pan. The robust dish of baked Japanese cheesy curry rice served with generous chunks of sausages, broccoli and a semi-molten egg, is actually a memorable highlight that we will gladly return regularly for. It is one of those amazing wonders-all-in-one-bowl dish.

#6 PANCAKE SOUFFLÉ

Pancake Soufflés are Hoshino Coffee’s best-selling desserts. Ironically, they are neither a soufflé nor a pancake, but are actually a cross-breed between these two classic dishes. Enjoy a single slice of soufflé-style pancake (S$9.80) or a double portion (S$12) with a choice of honey or maple syrup. You can also choose to have them with chocolate and banana or homemade whipped cream (single – S$13.50, double – S$16.80).

From time to time, limited edition selections are available and the current menu recommends Pancake Soufflé Style with Peach (single – S$14.50, double – S$17.80). By the way, we totally dig how they are so damn photogenic.

#7 ICE MATCHA LATTE WITH SOFTEE

Hoshino Coffee has an ultimate combo perfect for green tea lovers. The Ice Matcha Latte with Green Tea Flavoured Softee (S$9.30) is a delightful drink-cum-dessert. Why have just an element of green tea when you can have two? Do note that the cold beverage becomes milkier as the soft serve ice cream melts. Warning: this is an addictive treat.

#8 MATCHA / VANILLA SOUFFLÉ

The pot-baked soufflé (S$10.80) is available in either matcha or vanilla flavour. Each soufflé is baked upon order, so do be prepared to wait for at least 20 minutes before the dessert is presented to you fresh from the oven. Watch in awe as the soufflé’s jiggly pillow-like top eventually collapses into the ceramic dish containing it. If you have ordered the vanilla soufflé, you can choose from viscous chocolate or thick custard sauce as condiments. We suggest the former, because chocolate is always more decadent and satisfying, yes?

#9 FRENCH TOAST

The soft and fluffy lukewarm brioche French Toast with Caramel Nuts (S$10.80) is drizzled with caramel sauce and topped with sliced bananas, sifted icing sugar, pan-roasted almond slices. The large scoop of ‘ice-cream’ is actually a generous portion of chilled homemade whipped cream. A simpler variation of the French Toast (S$9.90) is available, where it is simply topped with sugar and cream.

#10 MILLE-FEUILLE

The Mille-Feuille is a flaky French-inspired dessert made with layers of incredibly thin and light puff pastry. We particularly enjoyed the Strawberry Mille-Feuille (S$15) where it was filled with vast amounts of piped cream, juicy strawberries, strawberry ice cream and jam.

If you were wondering, the strawberry ice cream and jam are actually hidden by the cream. Should strawberries not appeal to you, you can choose to have the Tiramisu Mille-Feuille (S$15)  instead. Both Mille-Feuilles are exclusive to Capitol Piazza’s outlet so do make a special trip down to sample these sugary treats.

#11 HOSHINO HAND-DRIPPED COFFEE

The highest quality Arabica coffee beans have been selected by Hoshino’s in-house coffee blend specialist Master Kano, and are roasted over open fire. The piquant hot coffee (S$5.80) flavours leaves a pleasant acidic aftertaste and is best consumed within 15 minutes. You can choose to refill your coffee at 50% off for Hoshino Blend Coffee, Americano, and Iced Coffee – this is amazing news!

#12 HOT FRUIT TEA

If you are more of a tea person, you must not miss out on a fragrant pot of Hot Fruit Tea (S$9.90). This is our favourite drink! The refreshing fruity tea comes with an interesting mixture of freshly sliced apples, oranges, kiwis and blueberries. We were hopelessly addicted to the sweet tea and completely unsurprised when told that it at times sells out by afternoon.

#13 SAKURA LATTE

Contrary to popular belief, the gorgeous-looking pink coloured Sakura Latte is actually free from caffeine and colourings. You can choose to have it hot (S$9) or iced with softee (S$9.30). The milk-based beverage infused with cherry blossoms is actually very light and has an aromatic floral scent.

For the latest updates, go to www.hoshinocoffee.com.sg, and like Hoshino Coffee on Facebook.

Hoshino Coffee
Capitol Piazza #B2-55
15 Stamford Road
Singapore 178906
Tel: +65 6384 5131
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

This post is brought to you by Hoshino Coffee.

It has been four years since we wrote our guide on restaurants in Orchard Road and though we update them from time to time, we thought it is high time to re-curate and to introduce a new guide, featuring even more dining places in Singapore’s most famous shopping street.

Options are aplenty and no doubt we are all spoilt for choice, but are they really worth their queues/ price tags/ waiting time? We have friends from overseas who visit Singapore and have limited time on our sunny island, and then we have our locals who do not want to waste their calories unnecessarily.

The next time you head to Orchard Road, you need not face the risk of stepping in to a random diner and not knowing what to expect.

Here is the Ultimate Orchard Road Food Guide—Top Places to dine at Orchard Road, Somerset and Dhoby Ghaut:

ANTOINETTE PATISSERIE

Undoubtedly one of the prettiest tea salons in Singapore, Antoinette is a perennial favourite for elegant French pastries and sweets. Nothing quite like your usual cakes and tarts, Antoinette promises nothing but surprises.

Antoinette Patisserie is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s 58 must-try desserts.

333A Orchard Road
Mandarin Gallery #02-33/34
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

AKASHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Among the many mid-tier Japanese outlets in Singapore, we love Akashi for its consistency. The menu is neatly categorised, and whether you are looking for sushi, sashimi or teishoku, there will be something to please. Or you can sit by the sushi counter and do an omakase meal while interacting with the chefs to understand more about what goes on your plate.

Akashi is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best Japanese restaurants.

290 Orchard Road
#B1-01 Paragon
Tel: +65 6735 8887
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

AKANOYA ROBATAYAKI

A meal here would be exceptional, and despite its hefty price tag, it is still worth saving up for and splurging on. Robatayaki is a fun experience; pick from the array of fresh ingredients, point to order, and the chefs will grill them over charcoal, and serve it to the customers using a long wooden paddle.

1 Tanglin Road
#01-01 Orchard Parade Hotel
Tel: +65 6732 1866
Daily: 6pm – 1.30am
Nearest Station: Orchard

AOKI

Les Amis fans would stand united when we talk about Aoki, a Japanese outlet that has always been well-received over so many years. Its Bara-Chirashi don is listed as one of the Best Chirashi Dons in Singapore.

1 Scotts Road
Shaw Centre #02-17
Tel: +65 6333 8015
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

ARTEASTIQ TEA LOUNGE

A stunning tea lounge Arteastiq is, this gem in Mandarin Gallery sees us returning regularly for its collection of superior teas. The Iced Lychee Tea is a clear winner among the crowd, but we also love the range of hot ginger teas. Arteastiq also has an art jamming studio, so it is a post-lunch alternative away from the crowd in Orchard Road.

333A Orchard Road
#04-14/15 Mandarin Gallery
Tel: +65 6235 8370
Daily: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

ARTISAN BOULANGERIE CO

Towards the Killiney side, we have Artisan Boulangerie Co – or better known as ABC. Any time is a good time for ABC’s Vanilla Eclair. We love the minimalistic vibes at ABC, and how we can enjoy a cuppa while reading our magazine on a lovely weekend.

118 Killiney Road
Tel: +65 6444 8130
Daily: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

ASTONS SPECIALITIES

They are no strangers to locals now. But if you do not already know, Astons’ shot to fame when they introduced very affordable steaks and casual Western food in a quick dining setting. They may not have the sexiest facade, but the food is nowhere near lacklustre. Choose from a huge menu of steaks, seafood, poultries and burgers, that all come with two side dishes.

2 Orchard Link
*Scape #03-04
Tel: +65 6509 4806
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

BEANSTRO

Offering a wide variety of mains, desserts and drinks, Beanstro is a lovely bistro that boasts a casual and laid-back vibe for shoppers. Let us not forget that Beanstro offers The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s signature drinks like coffee and ice blended drinks; perfect pair-ups with your hearty mains.

Unit B1-37, Ngee Ann City
391 Orchard Road
Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238873
Tel: +65 6235 1610
Daily: 8.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

BEDROCK BAR & GRILL

Bedrock Bar & Grill at Pan Pacific Serviced Suites is a modern New York style steakhouse. The restaurant boosts a dark, sexy, and classy interior; making it the ideal place to bring your client for a business luncheon, or your date for a romantic dinner.

The menu is small and concise. There are three US beef – 300g Dry Aged Ribeye ($96), 220g Tenderloin ($89), and 400g USDA Prime Black Angus Ribeye ($96); and three Australian beef – 400g Ribeye ($79), 350g Bone in Striploin ($69) and 500g Porterhouse ($89). For those in a big group, get the massive Tomahawk Steak for the table share.

Bedrock Bar & Grill is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best steak restaurants.

96 Somerset Road
#01-05 Pan Pacific Serviced Suites
Tel: +65 6238 0054
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Somerset

BISTRO DU VIN

Bistro Du Vin has been seeing a steady following since its opening in 2009. Classic French food that offers fair value, head down for a French affair when you need some Duck Leg Confit or Braised Oxtail.

1 Scotts Road
#02-12 Shaw Centre
Tel: +65 6733 7763
Daily: 12am – 2pm, 6.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

BROTZEIT GERMAN BIER BAR & RESTAURANT

An outlet for the discerning meat and beer lovers, Brotzeit is always packed with regulars and expats. Toast to a great meal with a pint of beer and lots of meat and sausages, Brotzeit offers a sexy and laidback environment for you to loosen your tie for some after-work fun.

313@Somerset
313 Orchard Road #01-27
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 12am
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 1am
Sun: 12pm – 12am
Tel: +65 6834 4038
Nearest Station: Somerset

CAFÉ & MEAL MUJI

Fans of MUJI, the popular Japanese concept store, rejoice as they bring you something even bigger and better. Café & Meal MUJI – the first MUJI cafe in Singapore is now open at The Paragon. The Japanese cafe is adjacent to their current merchandise store in the mall, and we were most certainly thrilled by their arrival.

Paragon Shopping Centre
290 Orchard Road, #04-36
Singapore 238859
Tel: +65 6735 0123
Daily: 10am – 9:30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard or Somerset

CAFFE BEVIAMO

Caffe Beviamo has firmly established itself as a popular haunt for locals and expats alike. It is not difficult to understand why it is always packed. It offers affordable and well-prepared Australian-inspired food. A simple Scrambled Eggs with Toast is only S$8. If you want something more substantial, go for Pasta (S$12 – S$18) or Pizza (S$12 – S$14). It also has a range of tempting desserts (S$3.50 – S$7.50), including cupcakes, carrot cake, and sticky date pudding.

Caffee Beviamo is also listed in our guide on Singapore’s Top 20 Inexpensive Restaurants.

163 Tanglin Road
#02-K1 Tanglin Mall
Tel: +65 6738 7906
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

CAJUN ON WHEELS

Located on Level 3 at the new extension of Plaza Singapura, Cajun On Wheels is a Halal-certified seafood diner serving unadulterated and fresh seafood in true American fashion. This is their second outlet—after their first food truck at Pasarbella Suntec City—and you would be delighted to know that their menu at Plaza Singapura is exclusive to that outlet too.

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

CHOCOLATE ORIGIN

Look out for a little kiosk at the basement food hall of 313 @ Somerset, and you will be in for a decadent chocolate treat. Primarily serving chocolate lava cake, Chocolate Origin makes a good pit stop in between shopping.

#B3-10A, 313@Somerset
313 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 68844019
Daily: 10am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

CHURRO101

A popular churro chain in Korea, Churro101 has a big range of different churros, but the ones that appealed to us the most on our first visit were their filled churros and churros coated with dark chocolate.

The churros are deep-fried fresh and served to us a la minute. We picked the Dark Chocolate Churro with Strawberry Crunch (S$5.90). The dark chocolate range is also available in two other coatings – almond and coconut.

313 Orchard Road
B3-49 313@Somerset
Singapore 238895
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

CRYSTAL JADE LA MIAN XIAO LONG BAO

The Crystal Jade brand is renowned being one of the leading Singapore-based restaurant groups to preserve the rich traditions of Chinese cuisine.

As far as comfort food is concerned, one of our all-time favourite places to dine at is Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao. We grew up enjoying their classic and contemporary interpretations of the much-loved xiao long bao and la mian which finds its roots from the Jiangnan region in China!

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao has officially opened its latest outlet at Basement 2 of Ngee Ann City which was previously occupied by Crystal Jade Korean Ginseng Chicken and BBQ. Paying homage to its opening on 01 Dec 2017, the restaurant will be bringing back their limited-edition local-inspired Hainanese Chicken Rice Xiao Long Bao.

391 Orchard Road, #B2-36A,
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
Singapore 238873
Tel: +65 6733 3229
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

CRYSTAL JADE GOLDEN PALACE RESTAURANT

One of the grandest outlets by the Crystal Jade empire, Golden Palace Restaurant is a longstanding favourite among locals and its constant crowd is a testament to its superb food quality. We always covet the idea of a Sunday dim sum brunch with our family here, what about you?

Crystal Jade Golden Palace is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 30 Chinese restaurants.

290 Orchard Road, Paragon Shopping Centre
Tel: +65 6734 6866
Daily: 10am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

DANCING CRAB AT ORCHARD CENTRAL

After the resounding success of their first outlet at Grandstand, Dancing Crab has since opened a brand new outlet at Orchard Central, replacing the space where Noodle Stories used to be.

Of the many Louisiana seafood restaurants in town, Dancing Crab has the most competitive prices without compromising on the quality of their ingredients and seafood. And with the introduction of new lunch options, burning a hole in your pocket is the least of your worries now.

Orchard Central #07-14/15
181 Orchard Road
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6509 1878
Fax: +65 6509 1879
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30 – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

DEAN AND DELUCA

There is absolutely nothing to not love about this New York brand. Dean And Deluca continues to wow the local crowd with its spacious Orchard Central outlet, spanning across Level 4 with takeaways, retail merchandise and a huge dine-in area. Weekend brunch is our favourite.

Dean & Deluca’s Rainbow Cake is also listed in our list of Best Rainbow Cakes in Singapore.

181 Orchard Rd, 04 – 23/24, Orchard Central
Tel: +65 6509 7708
Mon to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

DIN TAI FUNG

Din Tai Fung – a household name in Singapore since 2003 – is a popular favourite among locals and visitors alike. Talk about xiao long bao and we all think of Din Tai Fung’s legacy. Among the 18 locations Paragon’s outlet is the flagship restaurant and it showcases three VIP rooms that can be expanded to accommodate up to 30 diners.

#B1-03/06, Paragon Shopping Centre
290 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6836 8336
Mon to Fri: 11am – 9.30pm
Sun & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Paragon

FOOD EXCHANGE

If you love luxuriating in weekend brunches, then you need to check out the all-new Food Exchange at Novotel Singapore on Stevens for your next weekend indulgence.

Comfortably nestled in the spanking new Novotel Singapore on Stevens, this sleek restaurant spins up a plethora of international cuisine, allowing you to tuck into delectable food while overlooking the view of the hotel’s infinity pool.

As far as lavish Sunday brunches are concerned, freshness, quality and variety are some of the factors that we value most. Helmed by award-winning Finnish Head Chef Janne Ollikainen, the extensive buffet line at Food Exchange encompasses everything from fresh sashimi and seafood to hot cooking stations that serve up eggs, pasta and risotto à la minute, a myriad of roasted meats and more. They even have their very own DIY Bloody Mary bar so you can concoct your own brunch-time cocktail!

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.

Novotel Singapore on Stevens
28 Stevens Road,
#01-01, Singapore 257878
Tel: +65 6491 6100
Email: h9543@accor.com
www.novotel-singapore-stevens.com/restaurants-bars/food-exchange/

GOOD MORNING NANYANG CAFE

When we need our comfort food in the form of kaya toast and eggs, our go-to place in town is Good Morning Nanyang Cafe. Sitting on level 2 of Far East Plaza, this old-school outlet stands the test of time and has been lathering fragrant kaya on their crispy toast for we-lost-count-how-many years. Some traditional kopi for you too?

#02-23, Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 9650 3256
Daily: 8.30am – 8.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

HOSHINO COFFEE

Known for its hand-dripped coffee, Hoshino Coffee is located in the newer wing of Plaza Singapura. And we really love this popular Japanese coffee chain’s soufflés – Vanilla Soufflé (S$9.80) and Matcha Soufflé (S$9.80).

68 Orchard Road
#03-84 Plaza Singapura
Tel: +65 6338 3277
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

HUA TING RESTAURANT

One of the most reliable tables in town, Hua Ting at Orchard Hotel has been serving Cantonese delicacies for years and you can always be assured of a good meal here. The interior is not fancy, nor is the food particularly sophisticated. What it is, however, is simple and well-executed Chinese food.

Level 2, Orchard Hotel, 442 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6739 6666
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

IMPERIAL TREASURE SUPER PEKING DUCK RESTAURANT

Because the Peking Duck is really super, and it is our guilty pleasure when we crave some good Chinese meat. Its fatty goodness is a sin, but that extra few rounds of jogging will be worth it for Imperial Treasure’s Peking Duck. But of course, if you are already there, go for some dim sum too.

290 Orchard Road
#05-42/45, Paragon Shopping Centre
Tel: +65 6732 7838
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.45pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sat: 11am – 2.45pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sun: 10.30am – 2.45pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

IPPUDO RAMEN

Ippudo’s ramen empire is showing no signs of slowing down as it opens more and more outlets across the globe, including New York City, Seoul, Shanghai and Sydney. Its first outlet in Singapore – Mandarin Gallery – continues to see queues for their world-famous Japanese noodles, and if you haven’t tried, what are you waiting for?

Ippudo Ramen is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best ramen shops.

333A Orchard Road
#04-02/03/04 Mandarin Gallery
Tel: +65 6235 2797
Mon to Sat: 11am – 11pm
Sun: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

ISHINOMAKI GRILL & SAKE BAR

This Japanese restaurant at Palais Renaissance truly an undiscovered gem. Opening its door to public since December 2014, Ishinomaki Grill & Sake Bar is a welcoming diner helmed by Chef Chi – a well-experienced chef who has been in the industry for 25 years.

His keen passion for Japanese food has seen him travelling to different parts of Japan and building relationships with the best suppliers, so expect nothing less than the freshest catches when you dine at Ishinomaki.

390 Orchard Road
#B1-02/02A/03 Palais Renaissance
Tel: +65 67371065
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

ITACHO SUSHI

Salmon skin sushi for S$0.40 – everyone will know Itacho Sushi because of this. And more than that, they are a favourite because of the wide variety of sushi creations at very friendly prices. When dining at Itacho, treat yourself to a selection of makis, rolls and nigiris made with fresh ingredients. They have very value-for-money lunch sets, too.

Itacho Sushi is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s affordable sushi places.

Ion Orchard, #B3-20 ION Orchard
Tel: +65 6509 8911
Sun to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

IZAKAYA NIJUMARU

Izakaya Nijumaru is one hidden gem (literally) in Cuppage Plaza.

It is tucked at a corner on the second level of Cuppage Plaza and you wouldn’t otherwise walk past it unless you were particularly looking out for it. The nondescript outlet has been around for three decades. We actually only discovered it about seven years ago but it has since remained as a favourite of ours whenever we want a simple, affordable Japanese meal in Orchard Road.

5 Koek Rd, #02- 228796, 10 Cuppage Rd
Tel: +65 6235 6693
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sun: 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

J65 AT HOTEL JEN TANGLIN SINGAPORE

Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore’s gorgeous all-day dining restaurant J65 is an ultimate gourmet paradise if you are keen on mainly local fare.

Now, you can get excited every day of the week with the themed buffet nights through the week! There are 6 different buffet themes including Crab, Beef, Lobster, Prawn, Seafood and local food.

Lobby Level, 1A Cuscaden Road
Singapore 249176
Reservations: hoteljen.com/bookJ65
Tel: +65 6831 4374 / J65@hoteljen.com
Daily: 6.30am to 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Dinner Buffet
Sun to Thu: 6pm – 9.30pm / S$55++ per pax
Fri and Sat: 6pm – 10pm / S$60++ per pax

JADE PALACE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

It is pretty inconspicuous, and you might miss it unless you are familiar with its location. However, Jade Palace is a popular spot for those in-the-know, and the claypot rice, in particular, is one of the more memorable ones around. Jade Palace also has one of the most impressive selectionss of wines among the Chinese restaurants in town.

#B1-12, Forum The Shopping Mall
583 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6732 6628
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

JANE THAI

Orchard Towers is definitely not the best place to step in to, but if any, we would go there for Jane Thai. Sleazy as the building may be, any time is a good time for Thai food at Jane’s. They open till 4am, so it is perfect supper option. And the other good news is, they have an outlet at Simpang Bedok, too!

Jane Thai is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 10 affordable Thai restaurants.

400 Orchard Road
#04-30 Orchard Towers
Tel: +65 6887 5677
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

JIANG-NAN CHUN

The showpiece of the luxurious Four Seasons Singapore, Jiang-Nan Chun presents well-executed Cantonese fare – using traditional cooking techniques, with a slightly modern twist - in a refined setting.

Jiang-Nan Chun is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 30 Chinese restaurants.

190 Orchard Boulevard
Four Seasons Hotel
Tel: +65 6831 7220
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

KAIHO SUSHI

Kaiho Sushi, a hole-in-the-wall sushi joint, is one of those nondescript Japanese restaurants in Cuppage Plaza. It has been around for years and it is where food lovers in-the-know head to for some authentic Japanese cuisine indulgence. During lunch, it serves nine sets (at S$30) – pick from Anago Don Set, to Sushi Set and Ebi Tendon Set.

Kaiho Sushi is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best chirashi-don.

5 Koek Road, Cuppage Plaza, #03-01/02
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 11pm
Tel: +65 9734 9822
Nearest Station: Somerset

KITH CAFE

One of our all-time favourite cafes in town has got to be Kith Cafe. They serve honest food and good brew, and the al fresco seating area is a lovely spot to catch up on some me-time or to simply people watch. Most of the items on their menu are reasonably-priced under $20.

163 Penang Road, #01-01
Winsland House II, Singapore 238463
Tel: +65 6235 0582
Daily: 7.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

K COOK KOREAN BBQ RESTAURANT

K. Cook Korean BBQ Buffet has just opened at Orchard Central for a few months, but it has already earned the loyalty of many customers for a simple reason. It is one of the most affordable Korean BBQ buffet restaurants in Singapore. On weekdays, the Korean BBQ buffet is S$14.90++ /pax for lunch, and S$24.90++/pax for dinner.

#07-01, Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6884 7282
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

KOH GRILL & SUSHI BAR

Koh Grill & Sushi Bar is a small eatery that sits within Wisma’s Food Republic, and the one dish that everyone queues up for is the very famous Shiok Maki. It is a maki made up of avocado, unagi and aburi salmon, drenched with a supremely addictive sauce that is seemingly a legit mixture of mayo and mentai, then topped with a copious amount of tobiko. Sounds tempting already?

Koh Grill & Sushi Bar is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s affordable sushi places.

435 Orchard Road #04-21
Wisma Atria Singapore
Tel: +65 9180 3805
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

LOKKEE

Located on the 3rd storey of Plaza Singapura is American-Chinese establishment Lokkee that is not just your ordinary Chinese restaurant. It is worth mentioning that the up-and-coming gourmet eatery is successfully pushing the boundaries of traditional Chinese cuisine – without compromising on key oriental ingredients – and introducing a tantalising variety of revamped Asian classics that will impress even the most discerning diners. Expect unique renditions of steamed baos, spicy Sichuan diced chicken and whatnot.

Plaza Singapura
#03-01, 68 Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 4566
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

LUKE’S CHOPHOUSE & OYSTER BAR

Luke’s is a classy and upmarket chophouse, the sort of restaurant that you will find in New York. Known for its seafood cocktails, steaks and oysters, Luke’s Chophouse also does an impressive rendition of the classic lobster roll too.

Luke’s Chophouse & Oyster Bar is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best steak restaurants.

260 Orchard Road
#03-02 The Heeren
Daily: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

MAISON KAYSER

We love the eclairs at Maison Kayser! They do not have the best coffees, but the outlet at Scotts Square makes a decent pitstop in between shopping. And we love their spread of breads, too!

#B1-09, Scotts Square, 6 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 6636 3672
Daily: 8am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

MAK’S NOODLE

Hong Kong’s famous Mak’s Noodle has just opened its very first overseas outpost, and it is in Singapore no less! Sitting on the ground level of The Centrepoint, Mak’s Noodle in Singapore brings you the familiar authentic taste of Hong Kong with its concise menu of noodles and beef brisket.

176 Orchard Road
The Centrepoint, #01-63/64
Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 6235 5778
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

MANHATTAN BAR

This sleek, dark and sexy bar is exactly the kind of place where you’ll refuse to call it a night, which would be for the best, since your refusal will be met with a number of discreetly potent cocktails. Or you could give them a wild-card route (layman’s term: bespoke)—tell them your poison of choice, serving style and whatever preferences pop into your head, and watch them do their magic.

1 Cuscaden Road
Regent Singapore
Singapore 249715
Tel: +65 6725 3377
Mon to Sun: 5pm to 1am
Nearest Station: Orchard

MAKAN @ JEN

This all-day dining restaurant at the new Hotel Jen orchardgateway that offers both a la carte and buffet-style options. Weekday Semi Buffet Lunch is affordably priced at S$19.90, while its Weekend Singapore Brunch is only S$30 – quite possibly the most affordable weekend brunch buffet in Singapore.

277 Orchard Road
Hotel Jen orchardgateway
Tel: +65 6708 8899
Daily: 6.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

MARRIOTT CAFE

One of the best buffet restaurants in town where you can indulge yourself, Marriott Cafe at Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel is best known for its local high tea buffet which comes with an amazing lineup of more than 50 treats including Nasi Lemak, Chicken Rice, Laksa, Hokkien Mee, as well as Western desserts like Scones, Crepes and Toffee Date Pudding.

During the dinner buffet, you can find the freshest selection of oysters, snow crabs, crayfish and prawns at the Seafood Station. Seafood aside, you can look forward to local favourite such as Singapore Chilli Crab, Chicken Rice and succulent roasts.

320 Orchard Road
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
Tel: +65 6831 4605
Daily: 6am – 11am, 12pm – 2.30pm, 3pm – 5.30pm, 6.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

MARUTAMA

The popular ramen shop is now in town! Away from the crowd and sitting unassumingly along the stretch of eateries at Killiney, Marutama serves their famous chicken-based ramen all day. We usually prefer tonkotsu soup base for ramen, but nobody says no to Marutama’s spicy chicken soup. Period.

Marutama is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best ramen shops.

75 Killiney Road
Tel: +65 6352 6369
Nearest Station: Somerset

MENYA MUSASHI

Menya Musashi commanded long queues in the first few months, but the hype has died down since then which is unfortunate, as they’ve opened a few more branches around and out of town.

The broth is boiled for more than nine hours, and the chef has to stir it every half an hour to prevent the bottom from being burned. Menya offers three different types of ramen – ‘White’, ‘Red’ and ‘Black, each featuring different combinations of noodles and broth.

Menya Musashi is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best ramen shops.

Ion Orchard
2 Orchard Turn, #B3-25
Tel: +65 6509 9394
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

MEZZA9

Dining at mezza9 is always a comforting familiarity akin to dining at home. They offer superb value for their weekday set lunches. Else, indulge in a Sunday Champagne Brunch. “The ultimate champagne brunch,”- that was the only thought we had on our minds while enjoying our feast. Read more here.

Grand Hyatt Singapore
10 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 6416 7322
Sun Brunch: 11.30am – 3pm
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

MITZO

We will go out on a limb and say that Mitzo at Grand Park Orchard is the sexiest Chinese restaurant in Singapore. It combines a contemporary and intimate design with modern Cantonese cuisine. Quite unlike your usual Chinese restaurants, Mitzo actually has a lounge-like feel, and they have song curator for the daily loops.

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

NAKAJIMA SUISAN GRILLED FISH

Nakajima Suisan Grilled Fish at Takashimaya’s Japanese food court is gold. The prices of the set meals — choose from Salmon Teriyaki ($12.50), Gindara Teriyaki ($14.50), and Shio Saba ($7.50) — are so pocket-friendly. We’ve had their grilled fish for a decade, and still falling in love with it with every visit.

Nakajima Suisan is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 10 budget restaurants in Orchard Road.

391A Orchard Road Basement 2
Takashimaya Food Hall Ngee Ann City
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

NAMNAM NOODLE BAR

The pho and banh mi at NamNam Noodle Bar are not only delicious, but also very value-for-money. A bowl of pho is less than S$10, while the Banh Mi is only S$5.90. They also have extremely value-for-money lunch sets.

501 Orchard Road #B2-02
Wheelock Place
Tel: +65 6735 1488
Nearest Station: Orchard

NANA’S GREEN TEA

A modern Japanese tea house that offers a selection of Japanese food like  as well as matcha drinks and desserts. From matcha parfait, to matcha latte, and matcha Anmitsu, fans of matcha will enjoy every item here.

68 Orchard Road
#03-80/81/82, Plaza Singapura
Tel: +65 6684 4312
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

NARA THAI

We used to go to Bangkok for Nara Thai, for its fine Thai cuisine is truly deserving of all its credits and accolades. The well-known name is now in Singapore, and has an outlet at Ion Orchard.

2 Orchard Turn
#B3-21 ION Orchard
Tel: +65 6634 5787
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

NASSIM HILL BAKERY & BISTRO BAR

Tucked at the end of the Orchard Road, Nassim Hill Bakery & Bistro Bar sits beside Singapore Post at Tanglin, and is a quaint outlet when you need a break from the crowd. Its menu is comprehensive and we dare say almost every dish is enticing. Oh, it is a family-friendly spot too!

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn 3 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.

56 Tanglin Road
Tanglin Post Office #01-03
Tel: +65 6835 1128
Tue to Sun: 8am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

NIKU KAPPO

A brand new dining concept by WATAMI originating from Tsukiji, Japan, Niku Kappo offers diners authentic Japanese Kappo-style delights through its colorful menu filled with a diverse selection of food options.

As the word “Niku” suggests, Niku Kappo’s menu has a strong focus on meat. From Meat Sushi to Meat Hot Pot, Niku Kappo only seeks to present Japanese cuisine at reasonable prices.

NOODLE PLACE

If you find yourself stranded in Orchard Road with nothing “budget” to eat, well we’d say to head straight to Noodles Place @ 313 Somerset for a bowl of hearty dumpling noodles. Or more affectionately known as wanton mee.

The restaurant prides themselves on Hong Kong-style food, mostly simple one-dish meals that you would typically expect from a regular cha chaan teng, and at S$10.80, you will be served a bowl of noodles with prawn dumplings in soup. Fuss-free, but so good.

Orchard Gateway, 277 Orchard Road #01-17
Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 6733 3171
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

OMAKASE BURGER

Quite arguable the best cheeseburger in Singapore is Omakase Burger’s rendition. The Omakase Cheeseburger oozes with flavours – delicious hand-ground beef patty with melted cheese, iceberg lettuce, sweet tomato slices and sauce in a nicely toasted bun.

#01-02/38 Wisma Atria Shopping Centre
435 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6737 3218
Mon to Thu: 10am – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

ORIOLE CAFE & BAR

Oriole Cafe & bar has been making headlines in the Singapore National Barista Championships 2010. Coffee lovers can always get a good cup of coffee here, and it is conveniently located just right beside 313@Somerset.

96 Somerset road
#01-01 Pan Pacific Serviced Suites
Tel: +65 6238 8348
Mon to Fri: 11am – 11pm
Sat: 10am – 12midnight
Sun: 10am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

OPUS BAR & GRILL

What used to be Checkers Brasserie at Hilton Singapore is now revamped and known as Opus Bar & Grill. The culinary team is helmed by Aussie chef Nick Philip, and the menu is contemporary with Australian influence. The charcoal grill and dry-age cabinet are what Opus Bar & Grill are building their success on, and they are on a mission to spoil you with only the best meals.

581 Orchard Road
Hilton Singapore
Tel: 65 6730 3390
Daily: 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard Road

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE

Outback Steakhouse, the largest steakhouse chain in the world, is known to serve reasonably-priced steaks and mains in a casual ambience with friendly service. Even if you are not a fan of steaks, you will be spoilt for choice with its array of mains. They have a fantastic range of cocktails as well.

#04-01 orchardgateway
277 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6702 6842
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

PARADISE DYNASTY

Known for its colourful xiaolongbao (steamed pork dumplings) that are available in eight different flavours – original, garlic, ginseng, Szechuan, crab roe, cheese, foie gras, and black truffle – Paradise Dynasty is where we like to head to for a simple and fuss-free meal.

2 Orchard Turn, #04-12A
ION Orchard
Tel: +65 6509 9118
Mon to Fri: 11am to 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am to 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

PARADISE TEOCHEW

Singaporeans should be familiar with Paradise Group – the Singapore-based restaurant group with an impressive portfolio of mainly Chinese restaurants under their belt. Think Taste Paradise, Paradise Dynasty and Beauty In The Pot.

The reputable empire has recently launched an entirely new concept – Paradise Teochew Restaurant, where its speciality lies in authentic Teochew-style offerings to preserve and glorify the Teochew culture that many Singaporeans are more than familiar with.

6 Scotts Road, #03-04 Scotts Square
Singapore 228209
Tel: +65 6538 0644
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 3.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

PARIS BAGUETTE

This famous Korean bakery cafe serves a pretty lineup of pastries, cakes and breads, sandwiches and salads. Drop by its branch at Wisma Atria for a pitstop in between shopping.

#02-48/53 Wisma Atria Shopping Centre
435 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6836 2010
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

PAUL BAKERY

Paul Bakery has opened in Singapore with much fanfare, and it’s not difficult to understand why the French boulangerie/patisserie is packed with customers everyday. For those who have been to Europe, Paul Boulangerie is the place for them to relive those wonderful memories of having a warm croissant and a cup of coffee during winter. For others who have heard much about Paul from their friends, the restaurant in Singapore gives you the chance to taste a piece of Europe.

391A Orchard Road
#03-16/16A/17
Ngee Ann City Tower A
Tel: +65 6836 5932
Sun to Thu: 8.30am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 8.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

PETE’S PLACE

Pete’s Place is one of the most established Italian restaurants in town, specialising in authentic Italian homemade pasta and wood-fired oven pizzas. Tiramisu is always a good way to measure the standard of an Italian restaurant, so you have to try the rendition at Pete’s Place – it always tugs our heartstrings.

Grand Hyatt Singapore
10 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 6416 7322
Daily: 12pm – 4.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sunday: 11.30am – 2.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

POOL GRILL RESTAURANT

Pool Grill at Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel has gone through a little makeover and is now a stunner with a show-stopping menu to beat.

Drop by at night for a dinner with your loved one or friends, and the restaurant will not only captivate your heart with its mouthwatering food and innovative cocktails. You will also be swept off your feet with the romantic candle-lit ambience, complemented by the starry night sky and enchanting music.

Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
310 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

PS.CAFE

Everyone knows PS.Cafe, and it is almost synonymous with Palais Renaissance. This outlet is ever popular, and you can always count on these folks to whip up scrumptious dishes to put on the table. It also makes a perfect pit stop in between shopping, and a quaint afternoon with the girlfriends over some cakes and coffee sounds like a splendid idea, yes?

390 Orchard Road
Palais Renaissance
Tel: +65 6887 2207
Mon to Thu: 9.30am – 12 midnight
Fri & Sat: 9.30am – 1am
Sun: 9.30am – 12 midnight
Nearest Station: Orchard

RAMEN SANTOUKA

Here is a worthy contender for the best all-rounded ramen. A robust broth, chewy noodles and one of the most tender chashu we have had (it is the prized pork cheek after all), it is one easy ramen to love.

Ramen Santouka is also listed in our Best Ramen in Singapore here.

21 Cuppage Road
Cuppage Terrace
Tel: +65 6235 1059
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 12midnight
Sat: 12pm – 12midnight
Sun: 12am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

SABOTEN

Many consider Saboten to be one of the best tonkatsu restaurants in town, but I cannot really agree with that. Don’t get me wrong, though. Saboten definitely has one of the better breaded meats. Try the signature loin katsu ($23), katsudon ($20), and katsu Curry ($19.50).

Saboten is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best tonkatsu restaurants.

#B2-02/03, 313 @ Somerset
313 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6333 3432
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

SALT GRILL & SKY BAR

Among the Celebrity Chef Restaurants in Singapore, Salt Grill & Sky Bar stood out with its magnificent view, classy setting, impeccable service and fair cuisine. It has the complete dining experience.

2 Orchard Turn Level 55 & 56
ION Orchard
Tel: +65 6592 5118
Daily: 11.30am – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

SHANGRI-LA SINGAPORE LOBBY COURT

If you are looking for somewhere to spend a quiet afternoon with a group of friends, we cannot think of a better place than Lobby Court at Shangri-La Hotel Singapore. Treat yourself to a traditional English Afternoon Tea with finger sandwiches, scones, cakes and tea.

22 Orange Grove Road
Mezzanine Level Shangri-La Hotel
Tel:+65 6213 4486
Nearest Station: Orchard

SHINJUKU

Another haunt at Cuppage Plaza that we go to for a simple Japaanese meal is Shinjuku. It may not have the most attractive facade, but if you give them a chance, you might just fall in love with their S$10 lunch sets.

#01-01 Cuppage Plaza, 5 Koek Road
Tel: +65 6734 8436
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 1am
Sun & PH: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

STEEPLE’S DELI

Steeple’s Deli is a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away at Tanglin Shopping Centre that makes you feel transported into a different space. They have been around for years, and what keep regulars coming back again and again are the Reuben Sandwich (S$13.90), Beef Burger (S$12.90), and the super thick and rich Milkshakes (S$5.90).

Steeple’s Deli is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 10 budget restaurants in Orchard Road.

#02-24/25 Tanglin Shopping Centre
19 Tanglin Road
Tel: +65 6737 0701
Mon to Sat: 9.30am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

SUPPLY & DEMAND

Since its inaugural outlet at Esplanade, we’ve always enjoyed the fusion spread at Supply & Demand. And they are now at Orchard Gateway too. Of pastas and pizzas and even Asian dishes, its variety is comprehensive and you can always count on the joint for a good dinner with family and friends.

#02-13/14, Orchard Gateway
277 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6702 6218
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

SU SUPERSTAR KOREAN CUISINE

Su Superstar Korean Cuisine is a casual Korean eatery in *SCAPE that is popular among students and youngsters who hang around the area.

With 12 varieties of Korean ramyeon that are priced below S$10, it is no wonder why the Korean eatery is mostly packed during lunch and dinner hours. If you are looking for a quick Korean fix without burning a hole in your pocket, give Su Superstar Korean Cuisine a try.

2 Orchard Link
#02-18/18A/28 *SCAPE
Singapore 237978
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

STRAITSKITCHEN

Renowned for its uniquely Singaporean buffet, StraitsKitchen is one of the most popular buffet restaurants for two reasons. It is the place where you bring overseas guests to savour the best of our local hawker food in a stylish and comfortable setting. And it is a showcase of and opportunity to sample all the popular local dishes in one seating. And, it has a Halal-certified kitchen.

10 Scotts Road, Lobby Level
Grand Hyatt Singapore
Tel: +65 6732 1234
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

TAMPOPO RESTAURANT

Tampopo is one of those top-of-mind restaurant when we need a fuss-free Japanese meal. Their Tonkatsu Ramen is always good – a bowl of springy ramen accompanied by Tampopo’s signature tonkatsu in a spicy broth. We also love their range of chiffon cakes!

391 Orchard Road
#B2-33 Ngee Ann City
Tel: +65 6235 2318
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

TASTE PARADISE

Taste Paradise at ION Orchard is one of our favourite dim sum restaurants in Singapore. The food is always consistently good, and we can never get sick of its spread of classic dim sum. Try the char siew sou and custard bun when you are there; we promise you won’t be disappointed.

2 Orchard Turn
#04-07 ION Orchard
Tel: +65 6509 9660
Nearest Station: Orchard

TATSUYA JAPANESE RESTAURANT

A stalwart of the local dining scene, Tatsuya is where in-the-know locals go for top quality Japanese food. It comes with a price, of course. Omakase – where the chefs decide the menu for dinners based on the guests’ preferences and the freshest ingredients available – here is S$280++/pax for 8-10 course dinner. We would suggest going for their set lunches. The Sashimi Bento (S$45), Sushi Bento (S$45) and Bara Chirashi (S$35.90) sets offer excellent value.

Tatsuya Japanese Restaurant is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best Japanese restaurants.

Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 6887 4598
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

TENSHO JAPANESE SPECIALITY TENDON

Found in the basement of the recently revamped Centrepoint, Tensho Japanese Speciality Tendon is a recent venture by the Ministry Of Food, which officially opened late September last year.

If you are searching for a reason to visit, the Mixed Tendon (S$14.90++) at Tensho Japanese Speciality Tendon might be your answer.

176 Orchard Road, #B1-20 The Centrepoint, Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 6733 0449
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11.30am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

THE BETTERSHIP

The Bettership, a sashimi-centric eatery, has recently opened up on the ground floor of The Cathay. This humble Japanese eatery serves up boats—yes, boats—of fresh restaurant-standard sashimi as well as show-stopping donburi.

Priced decently at no more than S$20 for a sizeable donburi, this makes it a rather affordable option as opposed to many restaurants.

2 Handy Road #01-03,
The Cathay
Singapore 229233
Tel: +65 6835 9006
Daily: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

THE HUNGRY CAVEMAN

Bringing the very best of China’s skewer cuisine to Singapore, a colossally popular barbecue skewer restaurant chain, called The Hungry Caveman. Located on the 6th floor of Orchard Central, this new barbecue skewer restaurant aims to blaze the trail in Singapore’s meat skewer scene by being the first to adopt automated barbecue skewers. Just how cool is that?!

181 Orchard Road, #06-25
Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

TIM HO WAN

Opened by Chef Mak Kwai Pui, Tim Ho Wan is the cheapest 1 Michelin Star dim sum restaurant from Hong Kong. The star on the menu and what you must order at Tim Ho Wan is the legendary Baked Buns with BBQ Pork ($4.50 for 3). we can say with confidence after trying, that the buns are as good as the ones in Hong Kong.

#01-29 Plaza Singapura
The Atrium @ Orchard
68 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6251 2000
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

THAIEXPRESS

Quite contrary to “popular beliefs”, ThaiExpress is not a fast food chain. It is a restaurant chain, yes, but its casual dining style is what makes the household brand so popular and affordable.

The chefs here take their Thai food very seriously, and the kitchen is kept busy all day through because every item that is served on the table is prepared in-house with fresh ingredients and homemade sauces – cooked to order in each kitchen daily.

ThaiExpress has launched 3 brand new Sanook Sets which are priced not more than S$10.90++. Our favourite is the Sweet Chilli Fish Set (S$9.90++) which comes with Jasmine rice, Tom Kha Mushroom Soup, and Sweet Potato with Ginger Slice Dessert.

ThaiExpress is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 10 affordable Thai restaurants.

68 Orchard Road
#03-24 Plaza Singapura
Tel: +65 6339 5442
Daily: 11am to 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

THE COFFEE ACADEMICS

The Coffee Academics has opened its first outlet in Singapore at Scotts Square. If you have been to Hong Kong, chances are that you have either seen or heard of The Coffee Academics, voted one of the best coffee shops in the world by international publications such as Vogue, CNNGo and Buzzfeed.

Lvl 2 Scotts Square
6 Scotts Road
Singapore 228209
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

THAI TANTRIC

Another Thai eatery that is worth checking out at Orchard Towers is Thai Tantric. Prices range from S$6 to S$10, and some of the items that you should try – other than the usual classic Thai dishes – include Thai Fried Rice (S$6), Deep-fried Pork with Garlic & Pepper (S$10), and Deep-fried Chicken Wings with Honey (S$10).

Thai Tantric is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 10 affordable Thai restaurants.

400 Orchard Road
#03-23 Orchard Towers
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 3am
Nearest Station: Orchard

THE ASSEMBLY GROUND

This relatively new addition to the cafe scene is a pleasant one. Spacious, dimly-lit and sexy, very good green tea latte and more. On the food menu, they’ve got you covered with appetizers, sandwiches and burgers, salads and soup, pastas and pizzas and brunch food. Of course, their regular brews are aromatic too. Cappuccinos and Flat Whites are at S$5.50 each for single shot.

#01-21 The Cathay
2 Handy Road
Tel: +65 67333375
Mon to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

THE DRAGON CHAMBER

The Dragon Chamber is the first speakeasy restaurant in Singapore. A new dining concept by TungLok Group, The Dragon Chamber is hidden within Lokkee at Plaza Singapura.

For the uninitiated, a speakeasy usually refers to a bar which is hidden from plain sight; with that, part of the fun is in digging out its whereabouts. Go through a secret entrance in Lokkee and enter a different world. The Dragon Chamber is effortlessly hip and cool without trying too hard.

68 Orchard Road
#03-02 Plaza Singapura
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 4566
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

THE LINE

The highly popular The Line at Shangri-La Hotel Singapore is one of the best buffets in town. Everyone loves a good buffet treat, and at The Line, be lost in the wondrous world of international and continental spread. You can eat a bit of everything and before you even reach the end, you might already be completely stuffed.

Yes, the spread is that extensive. Sixteen live stations for your ala minute dishes too, and a special drinks station where you can order the very satisfying Teh Tarik.

22 Orange Grove Road
Shangri-La Hotel Singapore
Lower Lobby, Tower Wing
Tel: +65 6213 4275
Daily: 5am – 1am
Nearest Station: Orchard

THE PROVIDORE

A nice brunch spot at Mandarin Gallery is The Providore. It is a cosy European-styled cafe, with a retail corner where you can take home colourful tea pots and tea cups, English tea, house jams and homemade chocolates.

#02-05, Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6732 1565
Daily: 09:00 – 23:00
Nearest Station: Somerset

THE SUSHI BAR

The Sushi Bar at level three of Far East Plaza serves the standard dishes like sushi, sahimi, Japanese-style pastas and donburis, but if you only have room for one dish, you must try the much-lauded Salmon Aburi Sushi (S$14.50). It is really good, and the main reason why this hole-in-the-wall sushi bar is always packed with regulars.

The Sushi Bar is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s affordable sushi places.

#04-28 Far East Plaza
14 Scotts Road
Mon to Fri: 12.30pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 9pm
Sat: 12.30pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

TONKATSU BY MA MAISON

Tonkatsu by Ma Maison at Mandarin Gallery is as close to authenticity you can get – easily the best tonkatsu in Singapore. The Kurobuta Rosu Katsu (S$31.80) is excellent, but the highlight is the to-die-for Hungarian Mangalica Rosu Katsu (S$31.80) that will melt in your mouth.

Tonkatsu by Ma Maison is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best tonkatsu restaurants.

333A Orchard Road
#02-35/36 Mandarin Gallery
Tel: +65 6733 4541
Mon to Fri: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

TONKICHI RESTAURANT

Another Tonkatsu restaurant that retains its popularity among loyal customers for so many years is Tonkichi. Weekends would have the Ngee Ann City’s outlet see long queues of waiting time up to an hour, and it is little wonder because they do their breaded pork so well. Servings are huge, too.

Tonkichi Restaurant is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best tonkatsu restaurants.

391 Orchard Road
Ngee Ann City #04-24
Tel: +65 6735 7522
Daily: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

TOSS & TURN

The worship ground for health nuts, Toss & Turn is like an institution for salads. You mix and match and create your desired salads, and a regular plate is only S$9.90. Very affordable, very healthy and very (surpringly) filling. The dine-in area is really small, but that does not stop us from popping by when we need to do a VS Angel’s diet.

#B4-55 Ion Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn
Tel: +65 6636 5835
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

TSUKADA NOJO

Love a good pot of Japanese collagen soup? Then Tsukada Nojo will not disappoint. Trust us on this – because its premium jidori chicken soup is so out of the world that every night for dinner, people queue up for 1-2 hours for a table. And we can assure you that it would be so very worth the wait. Priced at S$26.90 per pax, it is also pleasantly affordable!

#03-81, Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6336 5003
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

TSUKIJI FISH MARKET RESTAURANT

Japanese food lovers, you need to know about this secret Japanese restaurant on the rooftop of Orchard Central—Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant! It houses 5 different restaurant concepts in one, serving up flavourful Japanese fare in generous portions at fairly affordable prices.

Dishing out a vast variety of Japanese food options spanning from sushi and sashimi, ramen, tempura and an assortment of chicken dishes and wagyu dishes, to say diners will be spoilt for choice is an understatement. And the best part is being able to order from any of the 5 menus and having them served and billed together!

Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant takes pride in providing diners with a variety of fresh seasonal fish and sashimi and you’d be happy to know that most of their seafood products are all air-flown from Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji Fish Market twice a week.

181 Orchard Road, #12-02
Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6634 2803
Mon to Thu, Sat & Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

TSURU KOSHI UDON

The udons on the menu here range from the basic Kake Udon (S$6.5) to the popular Curry Udon (S$9). We had the Ebi Tempura Udon (S$9) and Niku Udon (S$9) and they were fairly decent. Add S$5 to get a set meal with Mini Soboro Don or Mini Kakiage Don.

Tsuru Koshi Udon is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 10 budget restaurants in Orchard Road.

391 Orchard Road
Takashimaya Shopping Centre Food Hall
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

TUNGLOK SEAFOOD

Seafood restaurants are aplenty in Singapore, but it is considerably harder to find one that serves consistently good seafood at affordable prices. Tung Lok Seafood specialises in the best of Singapore-style seafood prepared with the quality and standards synonymous with the Tung Lok brand.

181 Orchard Road
Orchard Central
Tel: +65 6834 4888
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 6.30pm – 11pm
Sun & PH: 10am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

TUNGLOK SIGNATURES

TungLok Signatures has been around for a long time and has since branded itself as one of Singapore’s most established and well-loved Chinese restaurants for impeccable service and high quality food. The restaurant serves modern interpretations of traditional Chinese food, while still keeping traditional flavours intact, hence, appealing to both the older and younger generations.

TungLok Signatures’ cuisine concept is centred upon offering a menu which is planned and executed by Hong Kong-born Senior Executive Chef Li Man.

It features a unique combination of traditional Chinese cuisine, such as Cantonese Shanghainese and Sichuan dishes with a dash of Modern creations – authentic in tastes but with TungLok’s distinctive touch.

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

TUNGLOK XIHE PEKING DUCK RESTAURANT

There are many Chinese establishments that impressed us and left us good memories, but TungLok XiHe is one that is timeless. We love its concise menu and how it does not differ too much from its origins – nothing but the comforting familiarity of Chinese food at competitive prices. It is the kind of place that you can host your business associates, throw a celebration or to simply gather with your close ones.

Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road, #07-07/09
Tel: +65 6736 0006
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

TWG TEA SALON

TWG Tea Salon is a homegrown brand that has won over the taste buds of many tea and dessert lovers. Its growing reputation as a tea institution that offers a variety of exclusive and interesting tea blends and tea-infused delicacies has cemented its popularity in the local food scene.

TWG Tea Salon’s macarons are also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best macarons.

2 Orchard Turn
#02-21 Ion Orchard
Tel: +65 6735 1837
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

WAN HAO CHINESE RESTAURANT

A stalwart in the local dining scene, Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant at Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel has been serving its loyal regulars since its opening in 1995. What makes Wan Hao a place where you can return to again and again is its familiarity and consistency; standards are always very high and you will never be disappointed by the food.

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

WILD HONEY

In a city that has seen almost every restaurant and café serving brunch on weekends, Wild Honey has done remarkably well. It is one of the first few places that offers all-day brunch. It seems to have the right formula: brunch food made from produce that is sourced from the best in-season markets over the world – with very familiar flavours that would appeal to diners of all age.

6 Scotts Road
#03-01 Scotts Square
Tel: +65 6636 1816
Mon to Fri: 9am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

WINDOW ON THE PARK AT HOLIDAY INN SINGAPORE ORCHARD CITY CENTRE – THE BOSTON LOBSTER WEEKEND

While many other buffet restaurants out there pride themselves on having the largest and most extensive range of food and cuisines, Window on the Park adopts the ‘less is more’ approach by dishing out a substantially sized spread of only the good stuff, allowing diners to be able to savour each and every item before their bellies beg them to stop.

11 Cavenagh Rd, #02-00
Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre,
Singapore 229616
Tel: +65 6730 0170
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset / Dhoby Ghaut

YA KUN KAYA TOAST

Sometimes, all we need is a cup of kopi, two half boiled eggs, and Singapore’s well-loved kaya butter toast. And that is when we need to make a trip to Ya Kun Kaya Toast. Totally unpretentious but extremely comforting, this is one joint that will tug every Singaporean’s heartstrings with their traditional offerings.

313 Orchard Road
#01-32/33/34 313@Somerset
Tel: +65 6238 1872
Daily: 7am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

YAYOIKEN

We are always on the hunt for inexpensive and decent Japanese food, and it ended at Yayoiken. Of course, it does not have the most incredible tastes, but it is casual and fuss-free and satisfying enough, and the prices won’t have your wallet take a beating. Set lunches are mostly around S$10, too.

313 Orchard Road
313@somerset #B3-33/34
Tel: +65 6884 7550
Sun to Thu: 11am – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

YAN TING

The luxurious St Regis Singapore has no lack of good restaurants. Our favourite, however, is Yan Ting. The restaurant is classy and exudes an air of understated elegance. You’d be delighted to know that the average check per person for dim sum is actually S$30. Exquisite bites crafted from scratch and using the most premium ingredients, the dim sum at Yan Ting has always been a favourite all these years.

Yan Ting is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 30 Chinese restaurants.

29 Tanglin Road
The St Regis Singapore
Tel: +65 6506 6888
Nearest Station: Orchard

49 SEATS

Gone are the days where you can indulge in a mouthwatering western meal without burning a hole in the pocket. Fortunately, 49 Seats at Orchard Central exists and has made it a point to keep its fusion gourmet very affordable and accessible amidst the rising costs in this competitive industry. Most of the dishes are priced below S$16.90 and there is no GST and service charge.

Orchard Central #08-08
181 Orchard Road
Singapore 238896
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm 5.30pm – 10pm
Sat to Sun: 11am – 10pm
Tel: +65 6509 5895
Nearest Station: Somerset

5 ON EMERALD HILL

Possibly the oldest cocktail bar in Singapore, 5 on Emerald Hill has been taking residence in an old Peranakan-styled shop house near the outskirts of town since the early 1990s. The two-level bar exudes an air of nostalgia that envelops you into thinking you’re in the 1990s—think oak wood paneling, worn out furniture and walls covered in black and white pictures of customers and celebrities from that era.

5 Emerald Hill
Singapore 229289
Tel: +65 6732 0818
Mon to Thu: 12pm to 2am
Fri to Sat: 12pm to 3am
Sun: 5pm to 2am
Nearest Station: Somerset

10 SCOTTS

10 SCOTTS at Grand Hyatt Singapore is more than just a hotel’s tea lounge. Impeccably designed with a collection of rooms, it makes you feel right at home. On days when you feel like taking a break and giving yourself a little treat, the afternoon tea at 10 SCOTTS at Grand Hyatt Singapore is just the thing you need.

Grand Hyatt Singapore
10 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 6732 1234
Afternoon tea: Daily 12pm – 2.30pm, 3pm – 5pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

10 AT CLAYMORE

10 at Claymore at Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore is an a la carte buffet concept you can enjoy unlimited servings of premium meats, seafood and other seasonal specialities, served in petite portions and prepared à la minute for the best experience.

Look out for its much anticipated and highly raved Oyster Occasions buffet where you can indulge in premium oysters sourced from five different parts of the world as well as an array of the freshest seafood.

Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore
10 Claymore Road, Singapore 229540
Tel: +65 6831 6686
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Tim Ho Wan, the cheapest 1 Michelin Star dim sum restaurant from Hong Kong, is opening in Singapore at The Atrium @ Orchard, Plaza Singapura today. Opened by Chef Mak Kwai Pui (previously from Lung King Heen at Four Seasons Hong Kong), Tim Ho Wan has gained a strong following over the years and long queues are a common sight at his restaurants.

We got a sneak preview at a media tasting last night. Here are some of the highlights from the much anticipated Tim Ho Wan in Singapore.

The star on the menu and what you must order at Tim Ho Wan is the legendary Baked Buns with BBQ Pork ($4.50 for 3). I can say with confidence after trying, that the buns are as good as the ones in Hong Kong.

The Steamed Egg Cake ($3.80), another of Tim Ho Wan’s ‘Big Four Heavenly Kings’, is also a must-try — soft, fluffy and very addictive. I also enjoyed both the Steamed Prawn Dumplings ($5.50 for 4) and Steamed Pork Dumplings ($5 for 4). These classics were well-executed to a good standard.

Also good was the Deep-fried Beancurd Skin Roll ($4.20 for 3). It was a lot better than I thought it would be, and this was because of two combined successes — the deep-fried beancurd skin roll was not too greasy, and the fillings were of impressionable quality.

Tim Ho Wan also offers five different variations of Vermicelli Roll (Chee Cheong Fun) – BBQ Pork ($5.50), Shrimp ($5.50), Beef ($5.50), Black Pepper ($5) and its signature Pig’s Liver ($5.50).

We also tried the Steamed Beef Balls with Beancurd Skin ($4.20 for 3) and Steamed Dumpling Teochew Style ($4 for 3), and while decent, both were unremarkable.

The Pan-fried Carrot Cake ($4.50 for 3), one of the much-lauded items on the menu, was disappointing. It was slightly bland and it was missing the x-factor of a carrot cake that would otherwise mark a satisfying dim sum meal.

Other dishes on the menu include Glutinous Rice Dumpling ($5), Chicken Feet with Black Bean Sauce ($4), Pork Rib with Black Bean Sauce ($4.20) and Garlic, Mushroom, Spinach Dumpling ($3.80 for 3). They also have a rice category where they serve dishes such as Rice with Beef & Fried Egg ($6), and Rice with Chicken, Sausage and Mushroom ($6).

To end off the meal, there are two sweets available – the Tonic Medlar & Osmanthus Cake ($3.50 for 3) and Yam Puree with Sago ($3.50).

Supporters of Tim Ho Wan swear by the awesome BBQ pork buns and their affordable dim sum. At the same time, there are naysayers who feel that it is over-rated and not worth the time. This brings us back to the million dollar question: Is Tim Ho Wan worth the hype and queue?

Tim Ho Wan got famous because it offered good dim sum at very cheap prices – when it first started, you could get a very satisfying meal for around HK$50-80 (S$9-13) per person. However, with the high rental in Singapore – as with its branch at IFC Hong Kong – the dim sum here is slightly pricier. Most of the items are priced around $4-5.50 per basket. To be fair, they are still comparable with Singapore’s average; most dim sum restaurants in Singapore are priced at that range as well.

The dim sum in general is good. If you have never been to Tim Ho Wan in Hong Kong, then this one in Singapore is not to be missed. But if you had been there before, then I would suggest to give it a little wait before stepping into the Singapore outlet. As with any new restaurant, there will inevitably be teething problems. I urge everyone to be patient.

All in all, the arrival of Tim Ho Wan is great news and a strong boost to the F&B scene in Singapore. Tim Ho Wan will be opening its second branch at Toa Payoh in July, before adding four other branches by the end of this year.

Tim Ho Wan
#01-29 Plaza Singapura
The Atrium @ Orchard
68 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6251 2000
Note: This was an invited media tasting.

The long queues outside Tim Ho Wan, the cheapest one Michelin star restaurant in the world, are a testament to its popularity. Waiting time is easily an hour, yet people queue up for their dim sum. Now, we will be able to enjoy the famous barbecued pork buns without having to fly to Hong Kong. Tim Ho Wan will be opening its first overseas outlet in the new atrium wing of Plaza Singapura on 10 April 2013.

While I love going to fancy restaurants, it is impossible to spend so much on food all the time. That’s why I am always on the lookout for cafes that serve decent food at affordable prices.

Tea Cosy at Plaza Singapura is one of them. It serves a pretty decent afternoon high tea at $29.95 for two, from 2.30pm to 6pm daily.

The Tea Cosy Supreme High Tea Set ($29.95 for two, $19.95 for one) comes with seafood or non-seafood items, sweets (choice of  two English Scones or three Miniature Cakes) and a beverage (English Breakfast Tea, Coffee or Lemonade).

If there are two of you having the high tea set, you can opt for both the seafood and non-seafood items, which will give you Grilled Prawn Cocktail, Foie Gras Taster, Turkey Ham Crostini, Smoked Salmon Crostini, Parmesan Toast, Baked Mushroom, and Crispy Duck Crostini; and for desserts, two English Scones and three Miniature Cakes.

It sounds like a lot of food, but it is actually manageable as they are served in bite-sized portions.

If the high tea set doesn’t appeal to you, Tea Cosy has an ala carte menu which starts at appetisers like Tea Cosy Decadent Salad ($16.95) and Baked Mushrooms ($9.95); through sandwiches like Smoked Salmon Toasts ($13.95) and Beef Steak Burger ($13.95); then up to pastas and main courses like Braised Duck Pasta ($14.95) and Miso Dory ($18.95); and end off with desserts like Cupcakes ($3.85) and English Scones ($6.95).

The food is nothing special, but for a nice, quiet and relatively affordable afternoon tea in Orchard road, Tea Cosy at level five of Plaza Singapura is the place to go.

For more recommendations, read my list of afternoon high tea places in Singapore

Singapore Food Blog Review
Tea Cosy
68 Orchard Road
#05-10 Plaza Singapura
Tel: +65 6341 9318