Le Cheng Hainanese Chicken Rice

We had a dinner meetup with friends at Le Cheng Hainanese Chicken Rice, conveniently located right beside the popular Taiwanese porridge spot that I enjoy. This area is quite a foodie destination, with several eateries clustered around the same stretch.

Parking, however, can be a little tricky, especially during peak dining hours, as available lots are limited. If you’re driving over for dinner, it’s worth factoring in some extra time to find a parking space.

Le Cheng Hainanese Chicken Rice

The barley drink had a simple, homely taste that made it an easy choice to accompany our meal. It was light and refreshing without being overly sweet. Besides barley, they also offer other drinks such as coconut, Ai-Yu Jelly and lime juice for those looking for something different.

Barley

The Quarter Kampong Chicken arrived beautifully plated, with the chicken skin glistening under the light and coated in a savoury seasoning. The meat looked tender and juicy, and even on its own, the chicken was flavourful enough to enjoy without needing much else.

Quarter Kampong Chicken

Taking a closer look at the chicken, the skin had a smooth, glossy finish while the meat underneath appeared soft and tender. Each bite carried the savoury seasoning, making it a satisfying piece of kampong chicken to enjoy on its own.

Yummy Chicken Pieces

The Quarter Salted Braised Duck did not disappoint. The duck was neatly sliced into fairly uniform pieces, with a tender texture that was easy to enjoy. The seasoning was savoury and flavourful, though some parts at the base tasted a little saltier from the accumulated seasoning. Overall, it was a satisfying dish with good texture and plenty of flavour.

Quarter Salted Braised Duck

The Cai-Poh Omelette is a classic dish and a favourite at home, but this version came with a slightly different presentation. Instead of the usual loose omelette, it was cooked into a round, pancake-like shape, neatly encasing the cai poh (pickled vegetables) within. The egg wrapped everything up nicely, giving it a presentable finish while striking a pleasant balance between the egg's mild sweetness and the savoury saltiness of the cai poh.

Cai-Poh Omelette

The Hainanese Chap Chye had that comforting, homely taste that made it a lovely accompaniment to our bowls of chicken rice. With a mix of vegetables cooked until tender and coated in a light savoury sauce, it was a simple yet satisfying dish that added some greens to the meal.

Hainanese Chap Chye

The Hainanese Claypot Mutton Soup arrived bubbling hot in a traditional claypot, filled with mutton, beancurd skin, red dates and goji berries. The herbal aroma was inviting, with a comforting broth that made this a rather unique find, especially since this type of soup isn't commonly found at many eating places in Singapore.

Hainanese Claypot Mutton Soup

Served generously with pieces of mutton and beancurd skin swimming in the herbal broth, this soup was both hearty and comforting. The meat was tender, while the light herbal notes in the broth made it an enjoyable dish to have alongside the rest of our meal.

Tender mutton and Beancurd skin

A spoonful of the mutton revealed tender meat that came apart easily, accompanied by beancurd skin and herbs from the soup. The mutton carried a gentle herbal flavour from the broth, making each spoonful warm, savoury and comforting.

Tender Mutton from Hainanese Claypot Mutton Soup

Last but not least, the Braised Pork Trotters arrived looking incredibly tempting, drenched in a rich, glossy sauce that immediately brought out those traditional flavours. Served with chestnuts and broccoli, it was a hearty and comforting dish that rounded off our meal nicely.

Braised Pork Trotters

The close-up showed just how generous the pork trotter was, with tender meat and layers of collagen-rich skin coated in the savoury braising sauce. The chestnuts added a slightly sweet, nutty contrast, while the broccoli brought some freshness to this hearty dish.

Close-up of tender braised pork trotter with chestnuts and broccoli

What accompanied the whole spread of dishes? Of course, it had to be the fragrant chicken rice! Each grain was nicely coated with flavour and carried that savoury, aromatic taste that made it delicious even on its own. It was the perfect pairing with the chicken, duck and other dishes we had for dinner.

Chicken Rice

Overall, our dinner at Le Cheng Hainanese Chicken Rice turned out to be a satisfying spread of comforting, traditional flavours. From the fragrant chicken rice and tender kampong chicken to the salted braised duck, homely cai poh omelette, unique claypot mutton soup and hearty braised pork trotter, there was plenty to enjoy and share with friends. With its variety of dishes and convenient location among other eateries, it is a place worth considering if you are in the area and looking for a hearty Hainanese meal.

Le Cheng Hainanese Chicken Rice
Location: 389 Changi Rd, Singapore 419838

Neighbourly Cafe

Checking out Neighbourly, a free-parking, pet-friendly European-style artisanal café tucked away in Ulu Pandan, from the acclaimed team behind Carpenter and Cook.

neighbourly

While many guests may assume Neighbourly is a bakery café because of its connection with its sister café, Carpenter and Cook, Neighbourly is actually a food-driven café. Its kitchen is helmed by a chef with four years of experience in a Michelin-starred restaurant, bringing top-notch techniques to approachable, everyday dining.

Communal Dining

Whenever practical within the scale of their small kitchen, the team chooses to make their components from scratch, allowing artisanal quality to shine through in every dish. It’s this attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship that gives Neighbourly its own identity.

Check out this corner

Neighbourly is designed as a welcoming neighbourhood café where guests can slow down, gather and enjoy each other’s company. From the communal table and face-to-face ordering at the counter to its intentionally QR-code-free dining experience, every detail encourages genuine conversations and interactions.

Ordering Counter

 The two-storey café is connected by a spiral staircase, leading upstairs to cosy corners like this inviting lounge area, furnished with a comfortable sofa, patterned armchairs and a coffee table. With its warm interiors, greenery and charming pet-themed artwork, it makes a lovely spot to unwind, catch up and simply spend time together.

A cosy corner upstairs at Neighbourly

Beverages

The Fresh Peel Orange is a limited-portion drink made with fresh orange peel that is peeled by hand, then macerated with sugar and fermented for 2–3 days to naturally extract the fragrant orange oils. This careful process gives the drink its distinctive citrusy aroma and flavour. Available in both hot and cold versions, it’s a unique option for those looking to try something a little different.

Orange Latte 

The Sparkling Peach Earl Grey Tea was a refreshing choice, combining fruity peach notes with the fragrant character of Earl Grey and a light sparkling finish. Served chilled with a dried citrus slice and edible flowers, it was as pretty as it was refreshing.

Sparkling Peach Earl Grey Tea (Cold)

Sandwiches

I loved their English Muffin Breakfast, packed with whole-muscle ham, 4-hour house-made bacon jam, cheddar and a sunny-side-up egg, all sandwiched between toasted muffins. The combination was hearty, savoury and satisfying, with plenty of cheesy goodness in every bite.

English Muffin Breakfast - $16

They bake their own focaccia, make most of their sauces in-house and use locally farmed eggs. We had the Rosette de Lyon & Stracciatella, layered with house-made artichoke cream, pesto, savoury pork and creamy stracciatella, all tucked into their freshly baked focaccia.

Rosette de Lyon & Stracciatella - $24

Open Toasts

For a Chinese-inspired vegetarian option, we had their Halloumi & Broccolini with spicy chilli crisps, whipped ricotta and a sunny-side-up egg on their house-baked focaccia. The chilli crisps added a lovely spicy kick to the creamy and savoury combination.

Chilli Crunch & Halloumi - $24

Pastas

The Tiger Prawn Pesto features grilled tiger prawns served over fusilli tossed in their house-made basil pesto. The prawns were juicy and flavourful, while the pesto coated the pasta nicely. This is a limited-portion dish, so it may be worth checking its availability when you visit.

Tiger Prawn Pesto - $22

Sweets

The Toasted House-Baked Banana Loaf comes with house-made Chantilly cream and passionfruit compote. Toasting gives the banana loaf a lovely crisp exterior while keeping the centre soft and moist, with the creamy Chantilly and tangy passionfruit adding a nice contrast. Contains nuts and dairy.

Banana Loaf - $10

Overall, we had a lovely time at Neighbourly, where the emphasis on freshly made components and quality ingredients really stood out. From the hearty English Muffin Breakfast and creative focaccia sandwiches to the pasta, drinks and banana loaf, there was a good variety to enjoy. With its cosy, pet-friendly setting, free parking and relaxed neighbourhood vibe, Neighbourly is a welcoming spot to drop by for a leisurely meal, coffee and some good company.

Neighbourly by Carpenter and Cook
Location:  Pandan Valley Condominium, 2 Pandan Valley, #01-213, Singapore 597626

Yum Cha Chinatown

Let's check this out! Yum Cha is bringing Chinese traditions beyond the dining table with Mahjong Social Fridays, Dim Sum Catering, and a Workplace Campaign, combining good food, social fun and a touch of nostalgia in a lively setting.

The mahjong-themed setup in this photo definitely sets the mood, with colorful traditional-inspired props, playful signage and plenty of photo opportunities.

Yum Cha Mahjong Social Fridays Mahjong-Themed Setup

Launching on 28 August 2026, Yum Cha’s Mahjong Social Fridays will take place every Friday from 2pm to 6pm at its Chinatown flagship at 20 Trengganu Street. Held in the restaurant’s private room, the sessions welcome both experienced players and beginners, with participants able to register with friends or individually and be matched according to their experience level. Beginners can also pick up the game with guidance from Yum Cha’s staff. Best of all, there are no monetary stakes, making it a relaxed and social way to enjoy a traditional game with friends while soaking in the atmosphere at Yum Cha.

Yum Cha Mahjong Social Fridays Table Setup

Priced at S$38++ per person, the four-hour Mahjong Social Fridays experience includes exclusive use of a mahjong table, a six-piece dim sum set, dessert and freshly brewed Chinese tea. It’s a fuss-free way to gather with friends, enjoy some dim sum and spend an afternoon playing mahjong in a relaxed setting.

Yum Cha Mahjong Social Fridays Dim Sum Sets

Choose between two delicious dim sum sets and enjoy your Mahjong Social Friday with tasty bites, refreshing Chinese tea and good company. Whether you prefer steamed favourites or crispy delights, there’s something to enjoy while you play!

Yum Cha Mahjong Social Fridays Dim Sum Sets

Besides the Social Fridays, Yum Cha is also taking “Dim Sum Beyond the Dining Room”, bringing its handcrafted dim sum experience into homes, workplaces and celebrations across Singapore. Its catering offerings range from mini buffets and full buffet spreads to canapé receptions, while larger celebrations can also enjoy live stations, where chefs prepare dishes freshly on-site and interact more closely with guests. 

Longevity Theme

They also feature auspicious classics like the Longevity Buns, or Shou Tao, a traditional Chinese symbol representing longevity, good fortune and blessings. Beautifully crafted in the shape of peaches, these buns make a meaningful addition to birthday celebrations and milestone occasions.

Longevity Buns

From safari-themed children’s birthday parties and intimate 80th birthday celebrations to corporate appreciation events and weddings, Yum Cha’s catering service is designed to suit a wide range of occasions, bringing its signature dim sum experience wherever the celebration takes place.

Safari Theme

The safari-themed setup brings a playful jungle touch to celebrations, with an adorable orangutan adding to the fun atmosphere.

Safari Theme

The safari theme continues with this adorable lion plushie, adding a cute and playful touch to the celebration setup.

Safari-Themed Lion Plushie Decoration

These adorable colourful character-shaped buns would be such a cute and playful addition to a children’s party, adding a fun touch that little ones will love.

Cute Character-Shaped Buns for Children’s Party

The Double Happiness Lotus Seed Bun is a fitting choice for weddings and joyous celebrations, featuring the auspicious “Double Happiness” symbol that represents love, harmony and marital bliss.

Double Happiness Lotus Seed Bun

Yum Cha’s Mini Buffets make celebrations easy and fuss-free, withelections tailored to different occasions. From the Kids Mini Buffet with adorable children’s baos to the Wedding Mini Buffet, Longevity Mini Buffet and Classic Mini Buffet, there’s something for birthdays, weddings, family gatherings and corporate events. I love how the menu adds a touch of tradition while still keeping things convenient, perfect when you want to spend more time enjoying the celebration and less time worrying about the food.

Mini Buffet

Yum Cha @ Chinatown
Location: 20 Trengganu Street (off Temple Street), #02-01, Singapore 058479

Korat Thai

Back here at Korat Thai with my friends for dinner! My first visit was earlier last year, and I was pleasantly surprised to discover this hidden Thai gem in Orchard. The food was delicious, authentic and surprisingly pocket friendly, making it a place I was happy to return to with my friends.

Starting with the carbs, we had the Crab Fried Rice to share among us. The fluffy rice carried a lovely fragrance of egg and garlic, with generous bits of fresh crab meat tucked into every bite. Packed with aroma and savoury goodness, it was a comforting way to kick off our meal.

Crab Fried Rice

Next came their Sour Plum Minced Pork Soup, which immediately whetted our appetite for more. The broth was tangy and savoury, with tender minced pork and aromatic herbs adding depth to every spoonful. It was so appetising that we simply could not stop at the first scoop!

Sour Plum Minced Pork Soup

Yellow Curry Crab Meat comes with generous chunks of crab meat coated in a rich and flavourful yellow curry. Creamy, savoury and packed with crab, this is best enjoyed with a plate of white rice to soak up all that delicious curry!

Yellow Curry Crab Meat

Tender beef slices were stir-fried in a tasty and flavourful sauce, topped with crispy fried basil leaves. I particularly liked how the basil retained its bright green colour after frying, adding a lovely contrast and lifting the overall presentation of the dish.

 Basil Beef Slice

The Chicken Wing Zaab may look fiery red, but surprisingly, it was not spicy at all! The chicken wings were perfectly fried with a crispy coating and a tasty blend of seasonings that made them wonderfully appetising.

Chicken Wing Zaab

A Thai meal cannot be complete without this classic dessert! The glutinous rice was moulded into cute heart shapes and paired with slices of mango and coconut cream. The mango leaned slightly towards the sourish side, which balanced nicely with the sweetness of the dessert.

Mango Sticky Rice

Here’s what we had! With new dishes like these on the menu, Korat Thai continues to stand out from the usual Thai eateries. It’s a great choice for Thai food if you are in the Orchard area, especially if you are looking for something tasty and pocket friendly without breaking the bank.

What we had

Korat Thai
Location: Orchard Towers, 400 Orchard Rd, #03-28, Singapore 238875

Souper Tang

Souper Tang has opened at Raffles City, bringing its well-loved Chinese herbal soups, nourishing broths and comforting dishes to Singapore. It will be a familiar name for those who often head to JB for meals, and the extensive menu makes it easy to find something for everyone. What’s even better is that there are dishes exclusive to the Singapore outlet, giving diners something new to explore.

The Souper Tang Signature Soup arrived with a whole chicken leg, Panax Ginseng, dried scallop, fish maw and shiitake mushrooms. The broth carried a lovely rice wine and chicken essence aroma that made it especially inviting. The chicken was tender and infused with the nourishing broth, while the combination of ingredients added depth and richness without making the soup feel overly heavy. A comforting bowl that truly lives up to Souper Tang’s name.

Souper Tang Signature Soup 招牌参鸡汤 - $23.50

The Premium Fish Maw & Pork Tripe Pepper Collagen Soup is one of the Singapore exclusive offerings. I’m not usually a fan of peppery soups, but this was well within my threshold. The pepper was mild and gave the soup a gentle, throat-warming finish.

Premium Fish Maw & Pork Tripe Pepper Collagen Soup 胶原蛋白花胶猪肚汤 - $31.80

It came with generous pieces of pork tripe, fish maw, button mushrooms and other ingredients, making it a comforting and collagen-rich bowl. The pork tripe was tender, while the fish maw added a pleasant, soft and slightly gelatinous texture to the soup.

Fish maw, pork tripe and mushrooms in collagen soup

The comforting Stir-Fried French Bean with Pu Er was definitely a good pairing with the bowl of rice. The crisp-tender French beans were coated with fragrant Pu Er and crispy bits, adding a savoury texture and flavour that complemented the rice nicely.

Stir-Fried French Bean with Pu Er - $14.80

The Home Braised Pork Belly in Rich Dark Special Sauce struck all the right notes. The pork belly was well braised and tender, with the flavours nicely accentuated by the rich, savoury sauce. Pair it with the small buns to soak up all that gravy goodness for an extra satisfying bite.

Home Braised Pork Belly in Rich Dark Special Sauce - $18.80

The Jasmine Tea-Infused Sautéed Prawn is another Singapore exclusive. Fragrant and rather different in execution, the prawns were paired with barley and tea leaves, giving the dish a subtle tea aroma and an interesting texture. It was a refreshing change from the usual prawn preparations.

Jasmine Tea-Infused Sauteed Prawn - $14.80

The Yellow Wine Chicken was a dish I had been longing for, and it certainly delivered. I loved the natural sweetness from the red dates paired with shredded ginger, black fungus and tender chicken. This combination worked beautifully together, while the sweet, savoury gravy was incredibly addictive. It went wonderfully with a bowl of white rice, but the gravy was good enough to sip on its own.

Souper Tang Stewed Yellow Wine Chicken with Tian Ma Botany - $17.80

The XO Rice Topped with Twice-Fried Emerald Fish Chunks was aromatic and fragrant, with a lovely contrast of textures. The crispy fish chunks added a satisfying bite to the flavourful rice. Needless to say, we couldn’t resist going back for more after the very first spoonful!

XO Rice Topped with Twice-Fried Emerald Fish Chunks - $13.80

Coming to dessert, we had the Signature Caramel Beancurd, served in a charming wooden tub on a wooden chopping board. Simply pour the little jar of caramel over the wobbly beancurd and enjoy. The soft, silky texture paired with the sweet caramel made for a simple yet satisfying way to end the meal.

Signature Caramel Beancurd - $5.80

The Brown Sugar Herbal Jelly with Longan and Peach Gum was soothing on the throat, with just the right level of sweetness. Light and refreshing, it was a pleasant way to round off the meal.

Brown Sugar Herbal Jelly with Longan and Peach Gum

Souper Tang at Raffles City offers a comforting selection of nourishing Chinese soups and hearty dishes, including Singapore-exclusive creations. From its herbal soups to satisfying mains and desserts, there’s plenty to explore. A worthwhile stop for a wholesome and comforting meal in the heart of Singapore.

Souper Tang
Location: Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Road, #B1-37 Singapore 179103