You could put your verification ID in a comment Food, Lifestyle, Travel & Photography

Saturday, June 6, 2026

Hanjip Korean Grill House

Hanjip Korean Grill House was a place that had been on our dining list for quite some time, and we were finally excited to make our first visit. Nestled in the vibrant Clarke Quay district, the restaurant impresses with its spacious 5,000-square-foot layout, making it one of the largest dedicated Korean barbecue dining destinations in Singapore. Behind its striking glass façade, diners can enjoy a modern yet welcoming ambience that blends contemporary design with Korean dining culture, setting the stage for an indulgent barbecue feast.

Exterior view of Hanjip Korean Grill House at Clarke Quay Singapore with its prominent illuminated signage.
Hanjip Korean Grill House

At the entrance, we noticed an attractive promotion for diners making reservations in advance. Guests who reserve through Hanjip's designated booking platform and apply the promotional code can enjoy a complimentary Wagyu Oyster Blade, valued at $48++. It is certainly a nice perk for meat lovers, offering an opportunity to savour a premium cut of wagyu and kick-start the Korean barbecue experience on a luxurious note.

Promotional sign at Hanjip offering a complimentary Wagyu Oyster Blade with reservation.
Reserve for Complimentary Wagyu Oyster Blade

Hanjip also offers premium Korean meats sourced directly from Korea, including the highly regarded Hanwoo Beef and Jeju Black Pork. These premium cuts are available in various selections such as Hanwoo Ribeye, Hanwoo Striploin, Jeju Black Pork Collar, and Jeju Black Pork Belly, giving diners the opportunity to enjoy an authentic Korean barbecue experience with quality ingredients.

Promotional sign featuring Hanwoo beef and Jeju black pork available at Hanjip Korean Grill House.
Hanwoo Beef & Jeju Black Pork

Upon stepping into Hanjip, I was immediately impressed by the sheer size of the restaurant. The expansive dining space felt both spacious and inviting, while the sleek black-themed interior gave the Korean barbecue restaurant a sophisticated and upscale atmosphere. Complemented by warm lighting and modern furnishings, the setting elevated the dining experience, making it feel far more refined than a typical grill house.

Spacious interior of Hanjip Korean Grill House featuring a modern black-themed dining space.
Entrance into the dining area

The dining area at Hanjip is thoughtfully laid out with tables spaced comfortably apart, allowing diners to enjoy their meal without feeling cramped. Despite being a bustling Korean barbecue restaurant, the space felt surprisingly fresh and well-ventilated. Thanks to the efficient exhaust system installed at every table, there was hardly any lingering smoky or oily barbecue smell, making the dining experience all the more pleasant and comfortable.

Spacious dining hall at Hanjip Korean Grill House with well-spaced barbecue tables and modern interiors.
Dining 

For our visit, we were seated in one of Hanjip's private dining rooms, which added an extra level of comfort to the experience. The room effectively cut out much of the noise from the main dining hall, creating a quieter and more intimate setting for conversations. It was a welcoming space for enjoying the meal at a more relaxed pace while still soaking in the lively atmosphere of the restaurant.

Private dining room at Hanjip Korean Grill House offering a quieter and more intimate dining experience.
Private Room

To complement the Korean barbecue feast, we tried Chorong Chorong Soju and were pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable it was. Unlike traditional soju, which can be quite strong, Chorong Chorong offered a refreshing fruity flavour that made it smooth and easy to drink. The sweet and fragrant notes added a fun touch to the meal, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter and more approachable Korean alcoholic beverage.

Assorted bottles of chilled Chorong Chorong flavoured soju served in an ice bucket with shot glasses.
Soju

One of the highlights of the evening was undoubtedly the complimentary Wagyu Oyster Blade. Beautifully marbled and presented with an appetising sheen, the premium cut immediately caught our attention. The intricate marbling promised a rich and flavourful bite, and we could hardly wait to place it on the grill. As meat lovers, this was easily one of the dishes we were most looking forward to during the Korean barbecue feast.

Premium Wagyu Oyster Blade with rich marbling served on a black platter at Hanjip Korean Grill House.
Oyster Blade

Having previously enjoyed Hanjip's signature Kale Salad at Nami Korean Grill House, I was delighted to see it on the menu again. The salad had left such a good impression that I was immediately excited to have it once more. Tossed in a creamy roasted sesame dressing, the kale was complemented by sweet raisins, juicy grapes, fresh figs, and crunchy almond flakes. The combination of textures and flavours created a refreshing balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and freshness, making it a great starter before the indulgent Korean barbecue feast.

Kale salad with roasted sesame dressing, figs, grapes, raisins and almond flakes.
Hanjip Kale Salad

The Hamachi Carpaccio was a refreshing and elegant starter that quickly won us over. Thinly sliced and beautifully presented, the fresh hamachi was dressed in a bright citrusy sauce that enhanced its natural sweetness and delicate texture. Topped with bursts of orange roe, each bite delivered a pleasant pop of brininess that complemented the fish wonderfully. Light, refreshing, and full of flavour, this was a dish we thoroughly enjoyed.

Hamachi carpaccio topped with orange roe and dressed in a citrusy sauce.
Hamachi Carpaccio

The Ginseng Chicken Soup was warm, comforting, and packed with nourishing flavours. Slow-cooked to perfection, the chicken was so tender that it easily fell apart with a spoon. The broth was rich and aromatic with subtle herbal notes from the ginseng, making every sip incredibly satisfying. It was a hearty and soothing dish that provided a welcome balance to the indulgent Korean barbecue spread.

Traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup with tender chicken served in a hot stone pot.
Ginseng Chicken

The Spicy Handmade Tofu (Seafood) was a comforting and flavour-packed dish that arrived bubbling hot in a traditional stone pot. The silky handmade tofu absorbed the rich, spicy broth beautifully, while the generous addition of seafood such as mussels and prawns brought natural sweetness and depth to the dish. The combination of tender tofu, fresh seafood, and a pleasantly spicy broth made it both hearty and satisfying, especially when enjoyed alongside a bowl of steamed rice.

Spicy handmade tofu stew with prawns, mussels and seafood served in a hot stone pot.
Spicy Handmade Tofu (Seafood)

The Seafood Pancake was pleasantly executed with a golden-brown exterior and a satisfying texture. Unlike some versions that can be overly greasy, this one was light and not too oily. Conveniently pre-cut into portions for sharing, the pancake was packed with seafood and fragrant spring onions. Paired with the accompanying dipping sauce, each bite delivered a delightful balance of savoury flavours, making it an enjoyable side dish to complement the meal.

Golden-brown Korean seafood pancake served on a hot plate with dipping sauce.
Seafood Pancake

The Spicy Stir-Fried Octopus arrived sizzling on a hot plate, instantly drawing attention with its vibrant colours and irresistible aroma. Generously coated in a rich Korean spicy sauce, the octopus was tender with a pleasant chew, while the accompanying vegetables added sweetness and texture to the dish. The bold, savoury-spicy flavours made it a delicious accompaniment to the meal, especially for those who enjoy a little heat in their Korean cuisine.

Spicy stir-fried octopus with vegetables served on a sizzling hot plate.
Spicy Stir Fried Octopus

The Hanjip Platter is a great choice for those who want to sample a variety of premium meats in one order. Beautifully presented, the platter features Pork Collar, Ribeye, Boneless Short Ribs, and Pork Belly, offering a mix of textures, flavours, and marbling levels. From the rich and buttery beef cuts to the juicy and flavourful pork selections, the platter provides an excellent introduction to Hanjip's Korean barbecue offerings and is perfect for sharing among diners.

Hanjip platter featuring ribeye, boneless short ribs, pork collar and pork belly for Korean barbecue.
Hanjip Platter

One of the things I appreciated most about dining at Hanjip was the table-side grilling service. Instead of worrying about overcooking the meats, we could simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the company while the attentive staff expertly handled the grilling. 

Staff grilling premium meats and vegetables on a Korean barbecue grill at Hanjip.
On the grill

They carefully monitored each cut, ensuring the meats were cooked to their ideal doneness before serving them. It made the entire Korean barbecue experience much more enjoyable, allowing us to focus fully on savouring the premium meats and conversation.

Premium marbled beef and pork cuts grilling over a Korean barbecue grill with glowing charcoal heat.
On the grill

One thoughtful touch at Hanjip was how the staff transferred the freshly grilled meats onto a warming tray once they were cooked. With a small candle burning beneath, the tray kept the meats warm throughout the meal without overcooking them. This allowed us to enjoy the perfectly grilled beef and pork at a comfortable pace while maintaining their juicy texture and flavour.

Assorted grilled beef and pork cuts kept warm on a serving tray with a candle warmer underneath.
Meat on Warming Tray

With the grill still sizzling and dishes covering almost every inch of the table, this was truly a feast enjoyed in good company. Alongside the impressive spread of grilled meats, we also appreciated Hanjip's selection of refillable banchan, including kimchi, candied lotus root, seasoned vegetables, and other Korean side dishes that complemented the barbecue perfectly. Adding to the dining experience was the restaurant's tasteful décor, featuring beautifully illustrated wall art that lent a touch of Korean charm and character to the stylish dining space.

Korean barbecue feast at Hanjip featuring grilled meats, seafood dishes, refillable banchan and soju on a dining table.
Our Orders

To round off the meal, we were served Mango Sorbet, a refreshing dessert that was especially welcome after the indulgent Korean barbecue feast. Smooth, fruity, and pleasantly cooling, the sorbet helped cleanse the palate and provided a refreshing contrast to the rich grilled meats. Its bright mango flavour made for a simple yet satisfying end to an enjoyable dining experience.

Bowls of refreshing mango sorbet served as a dessert after a Korean barbecue meal.
Mango 

Hanjip Korean Grill House delivers an elevated Korean barbecue experience with its premium selection of meats, attentive table-side grilling service, and stylish dining environment. From the beautifully marbled beef cuts and flavourful pork selections to the hearty Korean dishes and refillable banchan, every element came together for a memorable feast. Coupled with spacious seating and excellent ventilation, Hanjip is an ideal destination for gatherings, celebrations, or anyone looking to enjoy quality Korean barbecue in the heart of Clarke Quay.

Hanjip Korean Grill House
Location:
CQ @ Clarke Quay, 3C River Valley Rd, #01 - 11 Clarke Quay, Singapore 179022
Website

Friday, June 5, 2026

Lion City Chicken Rice & Hotpot

 We headed to Lion City Chicken Rice & Hotpot to indulge in their signature Chicken Rice Hotpot, complemented by an enticing spread of mouthwatering zi char dishes. Housed within a beautifully restored heritage shophouse along Maude Road, the restaurant blends old-world charm with a modern dining atmosphere. The striking façade, adorned with traditional green shutters and colonial architectural details, sets the stage for a comforting feast of familiar local flavours and hearty dishes perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Exterior view of Lion City Chicken Rice & Hotpot in a restored heritage shophouse on Maude Road, Singapore. The building features traditional green shutters and colonial-style architecture.
Lion City Chicken Rice & Hotpot

Checking out the menu, we found that Lion City's Signature Hainanese Chicken is available in whole, half, or quarter portions, making it easy to cater to different group sizes. Prepared fresh daily using premium ingredients, the restaurant's signature offering pays tribute to traditional Hainanese flavours while providing diners with the flexibility to enjoy as much or as little of their famous chicken as they desire.

Lion City Chicken Rice & Hotpot menu featuring Signature Hainanese Chicken available in whole, half and quarter portions.
Menu

House Beverages included a selection of refreshing local favourites such as Barley, Chrysanthemum Tea, Herbal Tea, and Lime Juice. Served chilled over ice, these simple and comforting drinks helped to complement the hearty meal while offering a refreshing respite from Singapore's warm weather.

Four iced house beverages consisting of barley, chrysanthemum tea, herbal tea, and lime juice served on a table.
Beverages

Vegetables Platter featured a wholesome assortment of fresh vegetables including Chinese cabbage, yam, black fungus, and enoki mushrooms. As they simmered in the hotpot, the ingredients gradually released their natural sweetness into the broth. Combined with the rich essence of the chicken, the soup became even more flavourful and comforting, making every sip more enjoyable as the meal progressed.

Fresh vegetables platter with Chinese cabbage, yam, black fungus and enoki mushrooms prepared for hotpot.
Hotpot Items

Hotpot Seafood & Meat Platter offered a delightful mix of ingredients to complement the signature chicken broth. The platter featured fresh prawns, fish balls, sliced pork, squid, and chicken liver, providing a variety of textures and flavours for the hotpot experience. As the seafood and meats were cooked in the rich broth, they absorbed the essence of the chicken stock while contributing their own natural sweetness and savouriness. The prawns were plump and juicy, the sliced pork was tender, while the fish balls added a satisfying bite, making this platter a wonderful addition to the hotpot spread.

Assorted seafood and meat platter with prawns, fish balls, sliced pork, squid and chicken liver for hotpot.
Hotpot Items

Signature Hainanese Chicken had us drooling the moment it arrived at the table. Beautifully executed, the chicken featured tender, succulent flesh with a delicate layer of gelatinous collagen nestled between the silky skin and meat. Every piece was generously drenched in a savoury and fragrant soy-based sauce that enhanced the natural sweetness of the chicken without overpowering it. The smooth, silky texture and rich flavours made this a comforting and satisfying dish that truly showcased the essence of good Hainanese chicken.

Signature Hainanese chicken served with fragrant soy sauce and fresh coriander garnish.
Signature Hainanese Chicken

Stir-fried French Beans with Minced Meat was a simple yet satisfying dish from the zi char menu. The French beans were skillfully stir-fried, retaining a delightful crunch while being coated in a savoury seasoning. The addition of fragrant minced meat brought extra depth of flavour and a pleasant umami richness to the dish. It paired wonderfully with a bowl of rice and served as a great complement to the heartier dishes on the table.

Stir-fried French beans with savoury minced meat served on a square white plate.
French Beans 

Lion City Chicken Rice & Hotpot delivered a comforting and satisfying meal with its signature Hainanese chicken hotpot and well-executed zi char dishes. From the tender Hainanese chicken to the flavourful broth that grew richer with every ingredient added, the experience showcased familiar local flavours done right. Whether you're gathering with family or friends, this is a great spot to enjoy a hearty and comforting meal together.

Lion City Chicken Rice & Hotpot
Location:
 9 Townshend Road #01-01, Singapore 207607

Monday, June 1, 2026

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. 

The Soup Expert 

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.

The Soup Expert 

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.

Teapot-shaped signpost at The Soup Expert entrance displaying various signature soup names in Chinese, creating a fun and inviting welcome for guests.
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 Expert's Signature Pot Logo
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.

Exploring The Soup Expert's Menu
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.

Individual ceramic teapot and teacups serving The Soup Expert's signature double-boiled soups, including Old Hen Herbal Soup, Abalone Ginseng Soup, Wild Mushroom Bamboo Fungus Soup, and Chuan Bei Snow Pear Pork 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.

Contemporary restaurant interior featuring wooden furnishings, rattan-back chairs, cosy booth seating, and a clean, spacious dining environment.
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.

Claypot of homestyle braised chicken featuring tender chicken pieces, braised chicken feet, scallions, and colourful peppers in a rich savoury sauce.
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.

Claypot of braised pork trotters and chicken feet simmered with soy beans in a rich savoury gravy, garnished with sliced chillies.
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.

Whole crispy sea bass served on an oval platter, generously topped with minced garlic and chopped spring onions, resting in a rich supreme soy sauce. The fish features a golden crispy exterior with flaky flesh, presented family-style at a Chinese restaurant.
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.

A claypot filled with glossy sautéed button mushrooms cooked with dried shrimp, garlic slices and spring onions. The mushrooms are coated in a savoury brown sauce and served hot in a black claypot on a wooden 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.

A plate of deep-fried golden garlic pork ribs garnished with crispy fried garlic and sliced red and green chillies. The pork ribs are crispy and golden-brown, served on parchment paper in a white plate at a Chinese restaurant.
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.

Tender Hokkaido scallops stir-fried with XO sauce, crisp snow peas, black fungus and assorted mushrooms. The dish is garnished with crispy shallots and served on a white plate, showcasing a colourful blend of seafood and vegetables.
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.

XO Hokkaido scallops with vegetables and mushrooms.
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.

A block of purple sweet potato ice cream drizzled with a lattice of creamy mayonnaise sauce, served alongside crisp biscuit wafers on a white plate. The dessert is garnished with parsley and a cherry tomato, creating a unique Shanghai-style sweet treat.
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

Saturday, May 30, 2026

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.

Evening view along Tras Street in Singapore featuring heritage shophouses under a deep blue sky, with the illuminated signboard of Cougar Lee restaurant glowing warmly above parked cars.
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 featuring a classic upright piano decorated with wine bottles and vinyl records beneath a colourful European-style painting on a warmly lit wall.
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

Warmly lit restaurant interior with cosy seating, wooden furnishings, a visible open-concept kitchen behind a large glass panel, and a stylish bar area.
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.

A rustic green ceramic tea mug and tea infuser containing Pu’er tea infused in a petite mandarin orange, placed on a dining table.
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.

A comforting bowl of double-boiled silkie chicken soup with fish maw, red dates and herbs served in a white ceramic bowl with a Chinese soup spoon.
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 wrapped in beancurd sheet served in a rich savoury sauce and topped with shredded garnish in a red serving dish.
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.

Crispy foie gras terrine wrapped in filo pastry, served with creamy stracciatella cheese, pistachio crumbs and fruity vinegar glaze on a ceramic plate.
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.

Creamy buffalo burrata served with pineapple, tomatoes, crushed peanuts and chilli sesame dressing on a plated appetiser.
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.

Glazed roasted Kurobuta pork ribs served with confit peas, coriander salad and a calamansi on a ceramic plate.
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 with crispy batter served in Hua Tiao wine sauce alongside organic vegetables and shredded greens on a ceramic plate.
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 beef with foie gras and organic broccolini served on a ceramic plate with savoury sauce.
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 served in double-boiled chicken broth with bean sprouts, chilli oil and onions on a ceramic plate.
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 prawns served with silky cheong fun in creamy basil pesto cheese blanc sauce on a plated dish.
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!

A slice of homemade burnt cheesecake topped with chopped chives and served with a scoop of salted egg yolk ice cream on a ceramic plate.
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.

Creamy almond pudding topped with Pu’Er osmanthus jelly and pineapple chutney, finished with a lightly caramelised surface in a white ramekin.
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