The Soup Expert (尚一汤)

The Shanghai-famous restaurant The Soup Expert is the latest addition to Singapore’s dining scene, marking the brand’s first international outpost outside China. Renowned for its nourishing Cantonese-style double-boiled soups, the restaurant has built a strong reputation for its meticulous four-hour steam-boiling technique and wellness-focused recipes. 

A distinctive highlight of the dining experience is its elegant individual teapot presentation, where each soup is served in a custom-made teapot and paired with matching teacups, allowing diners to savour every comforting sip in a unique and refined way.

Before stepping into The Soup Expert, diners are greeted by a whimsical teapot-shaped signpost that playfully showcases the restaurant's signature double-boiled soups. Each directional sign points to a different nourishing soup variety, adding a touch of creativity and charm to the entrance while building anticipation for the comforting meal ahead.

Which Directions to your Soup?

Upon arrival, we were welcomed by The Soup Expert's illuminated signage, where the brand's identity is cleverly represented through a distinctive soup pot icon. The simple yet elegant logo perfectly reflects the restaurant's dedication to its signature nourishing soups, creating a warm first impression even before stepping inside.

The Soup 

With the introductions out of the way, it was time to flip through the menu and explore what The Soup Expert is best known for. From its nourishing double-boiled soups to a selection of signature dishes, the menu showcases a variety of comforting offerings thoughtfully prepared using premium ingredients and time-honoured recipes.

Menu of The Soup Expert

One of the restaurant's most distinctive touches is its unique way of serving soup. Each nourishing broth arrives in an individual teapot, accompanied by matching teacups for a refined and comforting experience. The presentation not only keeps the soup warm but also encourages diners to savour every sip. During our visit, we enjoyed the Old Hen Herbal Soup ($12.90), Abalone Ginseng Soup, Wild Mushroom Bamboo Fungus Soup, and Chuan Bei Snow Pear Pork Soup ($12.90), each thoughtfully brewed to bring out the natural flavours of its ingredients.

The Old Hen Herbal Soup delivered a comforting and traditional chicken soup flavour that felt both nourishing and homely. 

The Abalone Ginseng Soup was another enjoyable choice, featuring a gentle ginseng note that was not overpowering and suited my palate perfectly. 

For those who enjoy earthy flavours, the Wild Mushroom Bamboo Fungus Soup was a delightful option, combining savoury meat broth with the natural sweetness of mushrooms and the unique texture of bamboo fungus. 

One of my personal favourites was the Chuan Bei Snow Pear Pork Soup. The pairing may sound unusual at first, but the subtle herbal notes of Chuan Bei blended harmoniously with the sweetness of snow pear and the richness of pork, resulting in a distinctive yet highly enjoyable soup.

Soup in Teapot

The Soup Expert embraces a clean and contemporary interior, furnished with warm wood accents that create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Simple wooden tables, rattan-back chairs, and cosy booth seating are thoughtfully arranged within the spacious dining area, while soft lighting and neutral tones add to the restaurant's relaxed charm. The understated décor allows diners to focus on what matters most, enjoying a comforting bowl of nourishing soup.

Interior of Dining Area

The Homestyle Braised Chicken is available in both half and whole chicken portions, making it ideal for sharing among family and friends. Beyond the tender braised chicken pieces, the dish also includes flavourful braised chicken feet, adding an extra layer of richness to the pot. Coated in a glossy savoury sauce, every bite was deeply satisfying, while the robust gravy paired exceptionally well with a bowl of steamed rice, making it a comforting dish that kept us reaching for more.

Homestyle Braised Chicken - $19.90 (Half) / $38.90 (Whole)

The Fragrant Spicy Pork Trotters is a hearty braised dish that arrives bubbling in a rich, glossy gravy. Alongside the tender pork trotters, the claypot is generously filled with soy beans and braised chicken feet, creating a comforting combination of textures and flavours. The sauce was particularly well executed, savoury, fragrant, and packed with depth, making it irresistibly good when spooned over a bowl of steamed rice. Despite its name, the spice level was well balanced, allowing the rich braising flavours to shine through.

Fragrant Spicy Pork Trotters - $18.90

Crispy Sea Bass in Supreme Soy Sauce is one of those dishes that instantly feels like home. Even without knowing it came from a Shanghai restaurant, the familiar combination of crispy golden skin and savoury soy-based sauce brings a sense of comfort with every bite.

The sea bass was expertly fried, achieving a delightful contrast between its crackling exterior and moist, flaky flesh within. Generously topped with fragrant garlic and chopped spring onions, the fish soaked up the rich supreme soy sauce beautifully, creating a flavourful balance that was both simple and satisfying. It is the kind of dish that pairs effortlessly with a bowl of steamed rice and keeps everyone reaching for more.

Crispy Sea Bass in Supreme Soy Sauce - $28.90

Claypot Mushrooms with Dried Shrimp was a surprisingly addictive dish that delivered plenty of flavour despite its humble appearance. The mushrooms were plump, juicy and beautifully coated in a savoury glaze, while the dried shrimp added bursts of umami with every bite.

Served bubbling hot in a claypot, the dish was fragrant from the wok hei and aromatic garlic, with spring onions lending a touch of freshness. What made it especially enjoyable was the mushrooms' juicy, almost "popping" texture that released their natural sweetness as you bit into them. Simple yet well-executed, it was the kind of comforting dish that paired wonderfully with rice and complemented the richer dishes on the table.

Claypot Mushrooms with Dried Shrimp - $15.90

Golden Garlic Pork Ribs was an addictive starter that disappeared from the table in no time. Deep-fried to a beautiful golden-brown hue, each pork rib delivered a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining tender and juicy within.

The generous topping of crispy golden garlic elevated the dish with its irresistible aroma, while slices of chilli added a subtle kick that complemented the savoury flavours. Fragrant, crispy and packed with umami, this was the kind of finger food that kept everyone reaching for just one more piece.

Golden Garlic Pork Ribs - $18.90

The Wok Seared XO Hokkaido Scallops was a vibrant dish that showcased the natural sweetness of premium scallops alongside a medley of colourful vegetables and mushrooms. Lightly seared to retain their tender, bouncy texture, the scallops were plump and juicy, allowing their delicate flavours to shine.

Wok Seared Xo Hokkaido Scallops (Xo酱炒北海道带子)

The addition of XO sauce brought a savoury depth and subtle seafood umami that elevated the dish without overpowering it. Crisp snow peas provided a refreshing crunch, while black fungus and mushrooms contributed contrasting textures and earthy notes. Finished with fragrant crispy shallots, every bite offered a delightful balance of sweetness, savouriness and wok fragrance, making this a refined yet comforting dish to share.

From the plate of Wok Seared Xo Hokkaido Scallops

For dessert, we were introduced to the Sweet Potato Ice Cream, a popular treat in Shanghai and certainly one of the more intriguing dishes of the evening. Presented as a block of vibrant purple sweet potato ice cream and drizzled with an intricate lattice of mayonnaise sauce, it was a dessert that immediately sparked curiosity.

I must admit that the idea of pairing ice cream with mayonnaise did not quite win me over at first. Surprisingly, however, the combination worked better than expected, with the creamy richness complementing the naturally earthy sweetness of the sweet potato. The accompanying crisp biscuits added another layer of enjoyment, especially when used to sandwich chunks of the ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures. Unconventional yet memorable, it made for a unique and satisfying end to the meal.

Sweet Potato Ice Cream - $11.90

The Soup Expert delivers the kind of comforting Chinese fare that feels both familiar and satisfying. From hearty soups and homestyle classics to well-executed seafood and wok-fried dishes, every meal is prepared with care and balanced flavours. Whether you're gathering with family or simply craving a comforting meal, The Soup Expert offers a welcoming dining experience that keeps diners coming back for more.

The Soup Expert (尚一汤)
Location: Suntec  Suntec City, Tower 1, 3 Temasek Blvd, #03-315, 316, 331 Singapore 038983

Restaurant Cougar Lee 錦軒

The birthday girl requested for the celebration to be held at Cougar Lee and granted it was. Nestled along the charming stretch of Tras Street, the evening started with a scenic blue-hour view that made the whole experience feel even more special.

Parking around the area can be slightly challenging during dinner hours, but thankfully we managed to secure a nearby lot within a short walking distance. Sometimes, a little luck makes the night even better.

Restaurant Cougar Lee also Tras Street 

The furnishing carried a charming blend of European elegance and Chinese tradition, creating a warm and intimate dining atmosphere. Staying true to their philosophy of honouring tradition while redefining flavours, Cougar Lee presents an exquisite selection of handcrafted dim sum alongside signature Beijing-inspired dishes where every bite tells a story.

Cozy Restaurant INterior

A large transparent glass panel offered diners a direct glimpse into the bustling kitchen, adding an interactive touch to the dining experience at Cougar Lee. The cosy furnishing and comfortable seating arrangement made the space equally suitable for intimate gatherings as well as bigger group celebrations

Interior of Cougar Lee

We went with their 5-course set dinner menu priced at $50++ per pax, offering a well-curated selection perfect for group gatherings and celebrations. The set menu is available daily from Monday to Sunday, excluding public holidays.

To complement the set meal, we paired it with the Pu’Er Vintage in Petite Mandarin Orange. The earthy and mellow notes of the aged pu’er tea carried a subtle citrus fragrance from the mandarin orange, making it a soothing and refreshing pairing throughout the dinner.

Pu 'Er Vintage In Petite Mandarin Orange普洱小青柑

The first course began with a comforting serving of Braised Fish Maw and Silkie Fowl Double-Boiled Soup. Rich, nourishing and deeply flavourful, the warm broth gently soothed our tummies and set the tone perfectly for the dishes that were about to follow.

Double Boiled Soup 花胶乌鸡汤

For the second course, diners could choose from three different creations, the Snow Crab Stuffing in Beancurd Sheet, Foie Gras Terrine wrapped in crispy filo pastry, or the creamy Buffalo Burrata. Each option brought its own unique combination of textures and flavours, offering something delightful for different palates.

We tried the Snow Crab Stuffing in Beancurd Sheet, and it turned out to be surprisingly good. The delicate beancurd sheet carried a generous filling of sweet snow crab meat, while the rich savoury sauce tied everything together beautifully with comforting flavours.

Snow Crab Stuffing in Beancurd Sheet 红烧野菜焗雪蟹 

The Foie Gras Terrine wrapped in crispy filo pastry was rich yet beautifully balanced. Paired with creamy Stracciatella di Bufala, crunchy pistachios and a fruity vinegar glaze, every bite delivered a luxurious contrast of textures and flavours without feeling overly heavy.

Foie Gras Terrine Wrapped In Filo Foil 脆皮桂花鹅肝

The Buffalo Burrata was a refreshing contrast to the richer dishes. The creamy cheese paired wonderfully with the sweet pineapple and juicy tomatoes, while the crushed peanuts with chilli and sesame dressing added a fragrant nutty crunch with a light hint of spice for extra depth.

Buffalo Burrata 鲜辣布拉塔奶酪

农场 From The Farm

The Roasted Kurobuta Pork Ribs arrived beautifully glazed with a rich savoury sauce that coated the meat perfectly. The pork ribs were fork-tender with a satisfying balance of smoky and sweet flavours, while the confit peas and refreshing coriander salad helped to lighten the dish elegantly.

Roasted Kurobuta Pork Ribs, Confit Peas, Coriander Salad 锦轩烧排⻣

The Steamed Free Range Chicken in “HuaTiao” Wine came beautifully presented with a light crisp batter coating over the tender chicken. The aromatic Hua Tiao wine sauce added a comforting depth of flavour, while the organic vegetables balanced the dish with a natural sweetness and freshness.

Steamed Free Range Chicken in “HuaTiao” Wine, Organic Vegetables 葱香花雕醉鸡

For an additional top-up of $10, we opted for the Stir-fried USDA Hanging Tender with Foie Gras and Organic Broccolini and it was absolutely worth it. The beef was cooked to the right perfection with a tender and juicy texture, while the foie gras added a rich buttery depth that elevated the entire dish beautifully.

Stir-fried USDA Hanging Tender with Foie Gras, Organic Broccolini 鹅肝小棠菜焗⽜柳 +$10

海鲜 From the Ocean

The Poached Red Grouper in Double-Boiled Chicken Broth delivered comforting flavours with a gentle kick of spice. The tender grouper was beautifully soaked in the rich broth, while the sizzling onion and chilli oil added aromatic depth to the dish. Paired with the special beansprouts for extra crunch, it was both light yet flavourful at the same time.

Poached Red Grouper In Double Boiled Chicken Broth 葱香辣⼦油浸东星斑

The Oven Baked Prawn in Basil Pesto Cheese Blanc paired with Cheong Fun was definitely an interesting and unexpected combination. The prawns were plump and succulent, while the creamy basil pesto cheese blanc sauce brought rich and fragrant flavours to the dish. Together with the silky cheong fun, it created a unique fusion that worked surprisingly well.

Oven Baked Prawn in Basil Pesto Cheese Blanc & Cheong Fun 翡翠罗勒浓汤焗虎王虾

甜品 Desserts

Coming to dessert, some of us chose the Homemade Burnt Cheesecake, which came topped with chives and accompanied by a scoop of salted egg yolk ice cream. The cheesecake was rich and creamy with a beautifully caramelised surface, while the savoury notes from the chives and salted egg yolk ice cream created an unexpectedly delightful fusion. A sweet ending with a uniquely Asian twist!

Homemade Burnt Cheesecake, Chives, Salted Egg Yolk Ice Cream 法葱巴斯克

The Almond Pudding with Pu’Er Osmanthus Fragrans and Pineapple Chutney was an unexpectedly delightful creation. The silky smooth almond pudding carried delicate floral notes from the osmanthus and subtle earthy hints of pu’er tea, while the pineapple chutney added a bright fruity sweetness that tied everything together beautifully. An amazing combination that left a lasting impression.

Almond Pudding with “Pu Er” Osmanthus Fragrans, Pineapple Chutney 红茶桂花杏仁奶冻

Our dinner at Cougar Lee was a delightful experience from start to finish. The restaurant successfully blends traditional Chinese flavours with contemporary influences, resulting in a menu that is both creative and comforting. From the thoughtfully curated set menu to the warm hospitality and cosy ambience, every detail contributed to an enjoyable evening. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, hosting a gathering with friends, or simply looking for a memorable dining experience, Cougar Lee offers excellent value for money and is certainly worth a visit.

Restaurant Cougar Lee 錦軒 
Location: 61 Tras St, Singapore 079000 
Website

Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine 湘香湖南菜 @ Hougang Mall

 With authentic Hunan dishes gaining popularity in Singapore, we are now spoiled with plenty of Hunan restaurants popping up across the island. This was my first visit to Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine despite the brand already having 22 outlets across Singapore.

I visited their Hougang Mall outlet and, comparable to other restaurants of the same cuisine, we were warmly greeted upon arrival before being ushered through the restaurant to our dining table. The spacious interior, cosy lighting and modern Chinese-inspired setup created a welcoming atmosphere that made the dining experience feel comfortable right from the start.

Xiang Xiang Cuisine

We also tried their Jumbo Lemon Tea, which turned out to be both tasty and refreshing. Served in a generous portion, it is a great choice for those who enjoy having a large drink to go along with their meal. The balance of sweetness and citrusy notes made it especially satisfying and a good complement to the bold and spicy flavours often found in Hunan cuisine.

Jumbo Lemon Tea 超大杯柠檬茶 - $3.60

The Crystal Vermicelli with Minced Pork was served bubbling hot in a claypot to keep it warm throughout the meal. For those who enjoy vermicelli dishes, this was especially satisfying with its smooth and silky texture. The savoury sauce was well absorbed by the vermicelli, making it a comforting dish that paired wonderfully with bowls of rice.

Crystal Vermicelli with Minced Pork 肉沫水晶粉

The Steamed Ribs with Glutinous Rice reminded me of the flavours of a traditional rice dumpling. Wrapped in fragrant leaves, the sticky rice was infused with savoury flavours while remaining soft and comforting. 

Steamed Ribs with Glutinous Rice 糯米蒸排骨

What stood out was the addition of sweet potato among the glutinous rice, which gave the dish a subtle sweetness that balanced the otherwise savoury profile beautifully. The overall aroma was rich and fragrant, making it a comforting dish to share.

A Spoonful Hot of Steamed Ribs with Gluinous Rice

To be honest, the Claypot Three-Cup Chicken was my favourite dish among everything we ordered. It was a comforting and hearty dish, featuring tender chicken, soft potatoes, onions and a slight hint of chilli for extra flavour. The rich gravy carried a pleasant sweetness that paired exceptionally well with rice, making it very easy to enjoy spoon after spoon. Just be careful when serving, as the claypot was served piping hot straight from the kitchen.

Claypot Three-Cup Chicken  砂锅三杯鸡

When it comes to Hunan cuisine, a dish like the Spicy Boiled Fish is something that simply cannot be missed. Served in a vibrant red broth filled with chillies and spices, the fish was tender and flavourful while soaking up the rich savoury gravy.

Spicy Boiled Fish 麻辣水煮鱼  

 Although it carried a noticeable level of heat, I felt the spice level had been adjusted to better suit local Singaporean tastes, making it enjoyable and manageable for most diners.

A Spoonful of Spicy Boiled Fish at Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine.

Here’s what we had for our meal, a comforting spread perfect for a casual catch-up session. From the rich and spicy Spicy Boiled Fish to the savoury Claypot Three-Cup Chicken and silky Crystal Vermicelli with Minced Pork, every dish brought a different layer of flavour to the table. We also enjoyed the fragrant Steamed Ribs with Glutinous Rice alongside refreshing drinks that helped balance the bold Hunan flavours. Altogether, it made for a hearty and satisfying dining experience.

Our Meal at Xiang Xiang's Latest Outlet

Before leaving, do remember to grab their ice cream near the main entrance for a little sweet treat to end the meal. The ice cream came in adorable packaging featuring a cute pig mascot from the Xiang Xiang × Mingo collaboration, making it look extra fun and eye-catching. It was a simple yet enjoyable way to wrap up our comforting Hunan dining experience.

Grab your Ice Cream before leaving

Overall, Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine delivered a comforting and satisfying dining experience with its bold flavours, hearty dishes and cosy atmosphere. From the spicy and savoury classics to the refreshing drinks and cute dessert collaboration, the meal felt enjoyable from start to finish. If you are looking for approachable Hunan cuisine in Singapore with dishes suitable for sharing, Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine is definitely worth considering for your next gathering.

Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine 湘香湖南菜 @ Hougang Mall
Location: Hougang Mall, 90 Hougang Ave 10, #02-25 Singapore 538766
Website

Crossroads Cafe

 A unclaimed childhood wish in me had finally been granted. Since young, whenever I passed by Tangs Plaza, I would always notice this open-concept cafe and was often told that it was very expensive.

Fast forward to today, we finally made our way to Crossroads Cafe for their “Get Juicy! Beef Edition”, available from 1 April to 30 June 2026. A little childhood curiosity turned into a satisfying dining experience.

Crossroads Cafe

The cafe dining area feels open, airy and welcoming, conveniently located at a strategic spot along the high human traffic area of bustling Orchard Road.

Dining Area of Crossroad Cafe

The Tropic Glow features Lyre’s non-alcoholic tequila, passion fruit syrup and fresh lime, giving it a refreshing tropical twist.

Tropic Glow  & Berry Noir - $18 Each 

For sharing plates, we had the Prawn Paste Chicken Wings, also known locally as Har Cheong Gai, served with Hainanese chilli sauce. What we enjoyed most was how localised the dish felt, especially with the addition of Achar on the side which gave it a tangy and appetising touch. The wings were crispy on the outside while remaining juicy within, making it a great starter to share.

Prawn Paste Chicken Wings - $18

The Har Cheong Gai had a satisfying crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside. Paired together with the punchy Hainanese chilli sauce and tangy achar, it gave off a familiar local flavour combination that made the dish even more appetising.

Let's Dip Into the Hainaese Chilli Sauce

The Assorted Satay comes with a choice of 6 or 12 sticks, featuring selections of beef, chicken or lamb. Served together with ketupat and a rich peanut sauce, the satay was smoky, tender and packed with flavour, making it a comforting local favourite to share.

Assorted Satay - $19 (6 sticks)

The satay was lightly smoky with tender grilled meat that paired especially well with the thick and nutty peanut sauce. Together with the ketupat on the side, it delivered a familiar local flavour combination that felt comforting and satisfying.

Dipping Satay into Peanut Sauce

The Double Beef Patty Burger was stacked generously with juicy beef patties layered with raclette cheese, tucked between a soft brioche bun. Served alongside crispy fries and rich beef jus for dipping, this was definitely a hearty and indulgent burger experience that beef lovers would appreciate.

Beef Burger au Jus - $34

The Classic Beef Bourguignon featured tender beef cheek slow-cooked in a rich red wine sauce alongside pearl onions, mushrooms and vegetables. Served with sourdough toast on the side, the dish was hearty, comforting and packed with deep robust flavours.

Classic Beef Bourguignon - $34

The Get Juicy! Beef Edition at Crossroads Cafe turned out to be more than just a beef-centric dining experience. From comforting local-inspired sharing plates to hearty mains and refreshing non-zero proof cocktails, the menu offered a satisfying balance of familiar flavours and indulgent creations. Coupled with the open-concept ambience along bustling Orchard Road, this was definitely a fulfilling meal that made a long-awaited childhood curiosity worth the visit.

Crossroads Cafe
Location: Singapore Marriiott Tang Plaza Hotel, 320 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238865
Website

Dandy @ Queensbay Mall

 Been to Penang a few times over the years, but this was actually my first time stepping into Queensbay Mall. Since we decided to settle our dinner in the mall, we spent some time discussing where to dine before finally deciding on Dandy. With its bright and welcoming interior, the restaurant gave off a casual and comfortable vibe that felt perfect for a relaxed dinner after a day out.

Dandy @ Queensbay Mall

Flipping through the menu, we were pleasantly surprised by Dandy’s “Modern Food Culture” concept. Offering a halal-friendly selection with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, the menu featured a wide variety of comforting options that immediately got us excited for the meal ahead.

Food Menu of Dandy's

For drinks, we had the refreshing Blossom Iced Tea, a light and fizzy combination of flower tea, wolfberries, mint leaves, honey jelly, and a subtle hint of soda that made it extra cooling. The Caramel Spice Latte, on the other hand, looked indulgent and comforting with its creamy topping and aromatic flavours, making it a lovely pairing for the meal.

Blossom Iced Tea  & Caramel Spice Latte - RM17 Each

One of their recommended signatures was the Lamb Rice, proudly claiming over 500k plates sold. Served together with house salad, vegetable soup, and their signature red and white sauces, it felt like a wholesome and satisfying meal. I especially enjoyed the light aromatic fragrance of the basmati rice, paired with tender and well-cooked lamb that came without any overpowering gamey taste. 

Dandy Lamb Rice - RM42

The combination of the signature sauces added an extra layer of flavour that wrapped the dish up beautifully.

Dipping into the Red & White Sauce

In fact, we came into the restaurant craving for steak, so we decided to order the Dandy Striploin Steak. Served with straight cut fries, tomatoes, assorted mushrooms, vegetables, gremolata, garlic aioli, and steak sauce, the plate looked hearty and satisfying. The steak itself was nicely grilled with beautiful char marks while remaining juicy and tender, making it a comforting choice for steak lovers.

Dandy Striplion Steak - RM75

Cooked to our ideal doneness, the steak was wonderfully tender and juicy with every bite. Paired with the fragrant gremolata and crispy fries on the side, it was honestly a comforting and satisfying steak experience. What more could we ask for?

Cross Section of the Steak

Calories well spent indeed, and we were glad that stepping into Dandy turned out to be such a satisfying decision. From the hearty lamb rice to the juicy steak and refreshing drinks, the meal delivered both comfort and flavour. It was a pleasant dining experience that wrapped up our visit to Queensbay Mall on a happy and fulfilling note.

Dandy @ Queensbay Mall
Location: Queensbay Mall, GF112 & 113, 100, Persiaran Bayan Indah, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Website