The Curry Wok

Returning to The Curry Wok after 6 years, this time with friends to relive and savour the comforting flavours of Peranakan cuisine together.

The Curry Wok

The Interior has not got much changes and still remains neat and simple with some B&W pictures in frame hanging along both sides of the wall into the eatery.

Interior

When I spotted Buah Long Long on the drinks menu, I ordered it immediately. It's not something you see every day. The drink was unmistakably sour yet perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness, making it uniquely refreshing and so enjoyable.

Buah Long Long Drink 

The steamed otah was served as a compact block, resting on a base of banana leaf that added a subtle aroma to every bite. Its texture was soft and moist, with a gentle heat that made it enjoyable even for those who prefer milder spice levels.

Steamed Otah - $13

Delectable and comforting, it paired perfectly with the plain plates of rice we had, turning a simple meal into something even more satisfying.

Otah Cross Section

The homemade Ngo Hiang was packed generously, each roll filled to the brim and wrapped in a thin, crispy layer of beancurd skin that added a delightful crunch. Every slice was uniformly cut, making it easy to enjoy piece by piece. Simply dip it into the sweet dipping sauce and savour the satisfying blend of textures and flavours in every bite.

Homemade Ngo Hiang - $13

The Braised Pork Knuckle was an absolute showstopper the moment it was placed before us. Its glossy, collagen-rich skin glistened invitingly, while the meat beneath was incredibly tender.

Braised Pork Knuckle - $29

 With just a little effort, it fell cleanly off the bone, revealing rich, savoury flavours that made every bite deeply satisfying.

Meat Tender

The Curry Fish Head was another highlight of the 4-pax meal. The fish head was undeniably fresh, soaking up the rich and fragrant curry that carried just the right depth of flavour. Generous chunks of ladies’ fingers, brinjal, and tomatoes simmered within the gravy, adding both colour and texture to the dish. It was a hearty, comforting classic that tied the meal together beautifully.

Curry Fish Head - $29

The Chap Chye complemented the meal wonderfully. The cabbage, black fungus, carrot, and vermicelli were simmered until soft, soaking up the naturally sweet and comforting broth. It was a simple yet satisfying dish that balanced the richer flavours on the table.

Chap Chye - $13 / $16

We ended the meal on a sweet and refreshing note with the honey jelly lime dessert. Served chilled, it carried a pleasant sourness that balanced beautifully with its subtle sweetness. Light, zesty, and cooling. It was the perfect finish after a hearty spread.

Honey Jelly Lime - $4

We also had Cheng Teng, which came generously filled with longan, gingko nuts, sago, red dates, and white fungus. The sweetness was well-balanced, not overpowering at all, making it a wonderfully comforting dessert to end the meal with.

Cheng Tng - $4

For the hot dessert, we enjoyed Teochew Orh Nee, a classic treat packed with traditional flavours and pure comfort. Rich, smooth, and utterly satisfying, it was a delightful way to round off the meal.

Teochew Ornee - $5

Overall, the meal was a well-rounded feast filled with familiar flavours, generous portions, and comforting dishes that truly hit the spot. From appetisers to desserts, each item brought its own charm to the table, creating a satisfying dining experience from start to finish. It was one of those meals that reminded us why sharing good food with good company is always worth the trip.

The Curry Wok
Location: 5 Coronation Rd #01-04 Coronation Arcade Singapore 269406
Nearest MRT Stations: Botanic Gardens (CC19), Tan Kah Kee (DT8)

GyoGyo Japanese Grilled Fish & Sukiyaki - Plaza Singapura

Looking for Halal Japanese comfort food? Head to GyoGyo for grilled fish, hearty Japanese curry, and wholesome meals that warm both heart and soul.

GyoGyo Japanese Grilled Fish & Sukiyaki at Plaza Singapura

We visited their Plaza Singapura outlet, conveniently located on the 6th floor, for a comforting Japanese meal that truly satisfied our cravings.

Enviroment 

Along with the Japanese food, we had their handcrafted drinks, refreshing and well-balanced, perfect to wash down the hearty and flavourful meal.

Ice Yakult Cucumber Mix & Ice Lychee Mixed Berries

The Chicken Karaage Curry Udon was a satisfying bowl of comfort, generously portioned and packed with flavour. The thick, rich Japanese curry clung beautifully to the chewy udon noodles, while the golden-fried karaage pieces were crispy on the outside and juicy within.

Chicken Karaage Curry Udon

Each bite offered a hearty balance of textures, making it a fulfilling and warming dish that truly hit the spot.

Beef Sukiyaki (Free Flow Rice)

Chicken Karaage

The Beef Hamburg Curry Rice was hearty and satisfying, a comforting dish where melted cheese crowned the juicy beef patty, while a soft egg blanketed the rice beneath. Surrounded by rich, flavourful Japanese curry, every bite was savoury and indulgent, making it a wholesome meal worth savouring.

Beef Hamburg Curry Rice

The Unagi Roll was beautifully presented, topped with green onions and a sprinkle of roasted sesame seeds for an appetizing finish.

Unagi Roll

A long slice of tender unagi draped elegantly over the neatly cut rolls, each encasing egg, crab stick, and refreshing cucumber. 

Yummy

Such a combination offers a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and flavour in every bite.

Cross-Section of the Unagi ROll

Simply loved the style and execution of the Tempura Moriawase, a delightful mix of prawns, lady’s finger, mushroom, brinjal, and sweet potato, all lightly battered and deep-fried to golden perfection. The tempura wasn’t greasy at all, and the clear dipping sauce complemented each crisp bite beautifully.

Tempura Moriawase

The Kakiage with Truffle Kabayaki Sauce was a delightful surprise, a tower of mixed vegetable tempura, light and crisp, drizzled generously with aromatic truffle kabayaki sauce. The sauce added a rich umami depth that perfectly complemented the crunchy texture, making it both indulgent and satisfying.

Kakiage with Truffle Kabayaki Sauce

Gyo Gyo is a great spot for gatherings, especially when cravings for comforting Halal Japanese food strike. With hearty dishes like curry udon, grilled fish, and sushi rolls, it’s perfect for sharing a satisfying meal with friends and family in a cosy setting.

Our Meal

GyoGyo Japanese Grilled Fish & Sukiyaki - Plaza Singapura
Location: Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Rd, #06-08/09/10, Singapore 238839

Lao Ba Treasure Dessert

Kicking off my meal with a sweet ending, I found myself at Lao Ba Treasure Dessert despite being completely stuffed from lunch. Perhaps it was the scorching heat  or the irresistible sight of bowls after bowls of chilled metal desserts arriving at nearby tables that finally convinced me to order one for myself.

Lao Ba Treasure Dessert

Manning the stall single-handedly, the lady behind Lao Ba Treasure Dessert impressively handles everything, from taking orders to preparing desserts and collecting payment. The menu offers various grass jelly combinations such as Thai Milk Tea, Mango Syrup, or Nata de Coco, alongside classics with soy milk and attap seeds. For those craving something warm, options like Barley Ginkgo Nut Beancurd, Red & White Bean Soup with Coconut Milk, and Green Bean Soup are also available.

Menu

We went for the basic version of their Grass Jelly, also known as the Original. Served in a traditional metal bowl filled with mini ice cubes and smooth, slippery grass jelly, it stood out from the typical hawker versions. The texture was silkier, and the sweetness level was just right, leaning slightly on the bitter side rather than overwhelmingly sweet, making it a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Grass Jelly Original - $2

I couldn’t decide between Longan or Attap Seeds, so I went for both. A fuss-free choice that turned out perfect. Their natural sweetness beautifully balanced the slight bitterness of the silky, glossy grass jelly, creating a refreshing and satisfying dessert harmony.

Grass Jelly with 2 Toppings - $3

If you enjoy grass jelly, there’s no doubt you’ll like this. And if you’re looking to beat the heat on a scorching day, this chilled dessert is just perfect.

Lao Ba Treasure Dessert
Location: Pasir Panjang Food Centre, 121 Pasir Panjang Rd, #01-39, Singapore 118543

Tonkatsu ENbiton

 Visiting Tonkatsu ENbiton’s outlet at Suntec! They’re known for sourcing premium pork from renowned farms in Japan and beyond, serving an authentic tonkatsu experience worth savouring. 

“ENBiton” carries a lovely meaning, “EN” represents a gathering place, while “Biton” means beautiful perfectly capturing the warm, soulful spirit of their restaurant.

Tonkatsu ENbiton in Suntec City

For those ordering their Katsu Set, you’ll enjoy free flow of shredded cabbage, fragrant Nanatsuboshi rice from Hokkaido, and hearty Tonjiru (pork miso soup).

Enjoy Free Flow

They also offer takeaway specials from $7.90. If you’re craving a hearty bento on the go, simply approach their friendly staff to order and make payment.

Takeaway Counter

We paired our meal with refreshing Mango Calpis Soda and a zesty Virgin Mojito, both adding a bright, fruity touch to the hearty katsu feast.

Mango Calpis Soda & Virgin Mojito - $7 Each

Hokkaido Pork Japanese Curry Stew, served over fluffy Japanese white rice and wrapped in a soft omelette. Comes with free-flow Tonjiru (pork miso soup), pickles, and a mix of cabbage & arugula for a balanced meal.

Hokkaido Pork Nikomi Curry Omurice - $18

Unagi & Katsu Moriawase Gozen is a hearty combo featuring grilled unagi, half portions of Hokkaido pork loin & pork fillet katsu, and prawn katsu. Served with mentaiko cold tofu, daigaku imo (candied sweet potatoes), cherry tomato tsuke, and edamame. Comes with free-flow rice, Tonjiru (pork miso soup), pickles, and a cabbage–arugula mix.

Unagi & Katsu Moriawase Gozen - $27

Hokkaido Menchi Cheese Katsu Ramen & Donburi Set consists of half-portion minced Hokkaido pork katsu with melted cheddar cheese, paired with half-portion tonkotsu ramen, a mini Hokkaido pork belly chashu don, cabbage & arugula, and pickles, a satisfying duo of comfort and flavour.

Hokkaido Menchi Cheese Katsu Ramen & Donburi Set - $2190

Hokkaido pork katsu with melted cheddar cheese

Overall, dining at Tonkatsu ENbiton was a delightful experience. The quality of their pork and attention to detail truly stood out, offering an authentic taste of Japan. With generous free-flow sides and hearty set options, it’s a comforting spot for anyone craving a satisfying katsu meal.

Tonkatsu ENbiton
Location: Suntec City, 3 Temasek Blvd, #B1-170 / 171, Singapore 038983
Website

Empire Chinese Cuisine (formerly Phoenix Garden) 帝國軒

If you remember Phoenix Garden at Parkway Parade, it’s now Empire Chinese Cuisine. Established in 2020, this fine dining spot showcases exquisite Cantonese and Teochew dishes crafted by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants, delivering refined flavours and top-notch culinary artistry.

Empire Chinese Cuisine

Our first dish, Wok-fried Beef Cubes with Wholegrain Yellow Mustard Sauce, was beautifully plated with shredded carrots and cabbage. Each beef cube was evenly coated with just the right amount of mustard sauce, flavourful without overpowering, offering a mild kick of spice that complemented the tender beef perfectly.

Wok-fried Beef Cubes with Wholegrain Yellow Mustard Sauce 芥末籽酱爆牛肉粒 - $24.00

The Shark’s Cartilage Soup with Fresh Fishmaw required a 15-minute wait but was worth every second. Smooth, rich, and slightly gluey in texture, it was deeply satisfying and polished off the fastest among all the dishes a true crowd favourite at our table.

Shark‘s Cartilage Soup with Fresh Fishmaw 鲨鱼软骨花胶汤 - $19

We also had the Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Morel Mushrooms, which similarly required a 15-minute wait. The broth was nourishing and flavourful, with tender chicken pieces and earthy morel mushrooms enhancing its depth, a comforting classic done right.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Morel Mushrooms 羊肚菌炖鸡汤 - $11.80

Wok-fried Prawns with Egg White and Black Truffle Oil was a beautifully executed dish that reminded me of one we used to enjoy at Prima Tower. The truffle aroma paired harmoniously with the subtle sweetness of the egg white and the natural seafood sweetness from the prawns.

Wok-fried Prawns with Egg White and Black Truffle Oil 黑松露油蛋白炒虾球 - $26.00

The presentation was elevated with fine cuts of kailan stalks, adding a refreshing touch of green to the dish.

Wok-Fried Prawn

Homemade Spinach Tofu with Wild Mushrooms earned our unanimous nods of approval. The tofu was silky smooth, pairing beautifully with the earthy wild mushrooms and vibrant vegetables. 

Homemade Spinach Tofu with Wild Mushrooms 野菌扒菠菜豆腐 - $19.00

What a simple yet delightful combination done right.

Yummy!

Not many places serve Fried Bitter Gourd Strips with Salted Egg Yolk, so this was an interesting find. The taste was a pleasant blend of savoury and crisp bitterness, though the presentation was rather plain and could use a touch of refinement.

Fried Bitter Gourd Strips with Salted Egg Yolk Puree 咸蛋黄炸凉瓜条 - $10.00

For the carbs, we had the Stewed Mee Pok Noodles with Eggplant in XO Chilli Sauce. The mee pok was noticeably narrower than the usual type and was topped with slices of eggplant that we almost mistook for pork belly. The accompanying sauce was savoury and comforting, evoking a nostalgic flavour reminiscent of old-school canteen days.

Stewed Mee Pok Noodles with Eggplant in XO Chilli Sauce XO 酱茄子焖面卜 - $22

A comforting meal at Empire Chinese Cuisine, perfect for anyone craving refined yet homely Chinese flavours done with finesse and heart.

Empire Chinese Cuisine (formerly Phoenix Garden) 帝國軒
Location: Parkway Parade, 80 Marine Parade Road, #02-13/13A, Singapore 449269
Website

Kunthaville

 Sri Lankan Cuisine in Singapore? Yes! Kunthaville in Little India brings the vibrant taste of Ceylon with creative twists on Singaporean favourites and Indian classics.

View From the Restaurant

The interior exudes a resort-like charm, simple, laid-back, and relaxing. With tropical touches and warm tones, it sets the mood perfectly for a cozy meal.

Interior

For starters, we were served vegetable cutlets, beetroot and jackfruit. The Jackfruit Cutlet, Sri Lanka’s favourite plant-based “mock meat,” was cooked with potato and spices, wrapped in a crepe, then crumbed and fried till golden and crispy. 

Beetroot & Jackfruit Cutlet 

The Beetroot Cutlet was crispy on the outside and tender inside, with a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and a hint of chilli. Between the two, the beetroot cutlet stood out with its distinctive sweetness and well-balanced flavours.

Beetroot Cutlet

They also offered Appam, a Sri Lankan favourite made from a fermented batter of rice and coconut milk, cooked in a small wok-shaped pan. It had a soft, spongy centre with thin, crispy edges, much like a bowl-shaped pancake. 

Appam

You can even build your own Appam with a variety of savoury or sweet toppings available. Definitely worth checking out their menu for the options!

Appam

The Signature Curry Leaf Coconut Rice plate was a delightful medley.  fluffy Sri Lankan samba rice paired with spicy Dry Jackfruit Curry, sautéed green beans, tangy raw mango sambal, cooling cucumber sambal, and creamy lentils. A beautiful harmony of spice, texture, and comfort in every bite.

Signature Curry Leaf Coconut Rice accompanied by spicy matakkalppu palakai peratal

Rice was paired with slow-cooked eggplant simmered in jaggery and aromatic spices, resulting in a uniquely sweet and tangy brinjal curry.

Briyani and Brinjal Sweet & Sour Pirratal - $14

We had Pairs Rose, a romantic blend of silky golden tips infused with fragrant rose petals, blue cornflowers, and a hint of strawberry. Fresh, floral, and lightly fruity with a smooth finish.

Paris Rose

For dessert, we had Coconut & Vanilla Pudding, a silky-smooth treat made with coconut cream and vanilla, served chilled. It leaned a little on the sweeter side for us.

Coconut & Vanilla Pudding - $8

We also had Ceylon Falooda, a refreshing dessert featuring silky sago pearls and vibrant jellies, served in rich coconut cream for a sweet and cooling treat.

Ceylon Falooda - $12

Overall, the meal was a delightful balance of comforting flavors and refreshing treats. From the sweet and tangy brinjal curry to the floral tea and creamy desserts, each dish offered its own charm, rounding off the experience on a satisfying and memorable note.

Kunthaville
Location: 18 Veerasamy Rd, Level 1, Singapore 207326
Website