Cafe OSG - Zichar Tea Room + Wine Bar

I have always believed that a meal can be more than just good food on the table. One of the reasons I am drawn to Cafe OSG is their commitment to giving back through every dining experience. With 10% of every signature dish supporting Compassion Singapore in helping lift children out of poverty, and $3 from every bottle of wine donated to Charity: Water to provide clean drinking water to communities in need, every meal becomes part of something bigger. 

Cafe OSG

It is inspiring to see a café putting kindness into action, where dining well also means making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Cafe OSG - Zichar Tea Room + Wine Bar

Besides the main entrance, Cafe OSG also features a convenient side entrance that offers a sneak peek into its inviting bar and dining space. Framed by vibrant lighting and glass panels, the entrance gives passers-by a glimpse of the cosy atmosphere within, making it hard not to stop and take a look.

OSG Cafe Side Door

Amid the hustle and bustle of Suntec City, Cafe OSG stands out with its cosy bar-style setting. Warm ambient lighting, neon accents and a relaxed atmosphere make it an inviting spot for both casual dining and evening drinks.

A Vibrant Bar-Lounge Ambience in the Heart of Suntec City

One of the most eye-catching features at Cafe OSG is the glowing "Love Never Fails" neon signage that illuminates the space with warmth and character. Set against a vibrant mural and complemented by ambient lighting, this cosy corner reflects the café's message of love, kindness and community, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners to relax and connect.

"Love Never Fails" – A Heartwarming Corner at Cafe OSG

Love Never Fails" – A Dynamic Glow That Transforms the Space

Starting off on a refreshing note was the Beautiful Cha Oolong Kombu, a healthier probiotic tea-tail that is completely alcohol-free and driver-friendly. Light, fragrant and beautifully presented, it combines the floral notes of oolong tea with the goodness of probiotics, making it a refreshing sip to kickstart the meal.

Mango Guava Oolong Kombu  & Beautiful Cha Oolong Kombu 美丽乌龙康普茶 - $11.90

I was genuinely amazed by the presentation of the Melon Oolong Tea. What seemed like a simple tea order arrived in an elegant crystal decanter accompanied by a beautifully selected glass, instantly elevating the experience. The attention to detail made the tea feel extra special, proving that at Cafe OSG, presentation is just as important as the drink itself.

Melon Oolong Tea

Don't miss the Cauliflower Karaage, crispy golden cauliflower florets coated in a light karaage-style batter and fried to perfection. Crunchy on the outside and tender within, they were even more addictive when dipped into the tangy, herby coriander chutney. A simple dish done exceptionally well.

Cauliflower Karaage 日式椰菜唐扬 - $11.90

For a café with a wine-centric setting, OSG's Signature Curry Noodle was a pleasant surprise. The rich curry broth was packed with flavour and generously filled with crispy fried pork belly, vegetarian mock goose, tau pok and other delicious accompaniments. Every spoonful was comforting and satisfying, making this bowl well worth the calories.

Curry Noodle 霸王咖喱面 - $10.90

When I spotted the OSG-Style Char Kway Teow being showcased on the TV screen in the bar, I was immediately sold. Thankfully, the dish lived up to expectations. The noodles carried a satisfying amount of wok hei, while the fragrant pork lard added an irresistible crunch and richness. Complete with prawns, fish cake, egg and bean sprouts, this plate delivered all the quintessential elements of a good Char Kway Teow and left me wanting more.

OSG- Style Char Kway Teow 老味道炒果条 - $14.90

The Nasi Lemak Beef Rendang was another satisfying local favourite. Served with fragrant butterfly blue pea rice, the tender beef rendang came separately in a bowl, allowing the rich and aromatic gravy to shine. Completing the plate were all the quintessential accompaniments, hard-boiled egg, crunchy ikan bilis, peanuts, fresh cucumber and spicy sambal, making this a hearty and flavourful meal.

Nasi Lemak Beef Rendang 传统仁当牛肉椰浆饭 - $13.90

The sight of steam rising from the spoonful of Beef Rendang was irresistible. Tender, flavour-packed and coated in a rich aromatic gravy, it was comfort food at its finest.

Steaming Hot Beef Rendang, Tender, Aromatic and Richly Spiced

The Salt-Baked Chicken was right up my alley. Beautifully presented, the tender chicken was immersed in a pool of nourishing chicken broth, enriched with the natural sweetness of red dates and the fresh aroma of coriander. Light yet comforting, the dish allowed the delicate flavours of the chicken and broth to shine through, making it both wholesome and satisfying.

Salt-Baked Chicken 盐焗鸡 - $13.80

Ending the meal on a sweet note was the Classic Cheesecake. Rich, creamy and velvety smooth, the cheesecake offered a satisfying balance of sweetness and tanginess. Paired with a buttery biscuit base, it was a simple yet comforting dessert that rounded off the dining experience beautifully.

Classic Cheesecake

Chocolate lovers will find it hard to resist the Rich Double Chocolate Cake. Featuring moist chocolate sponge layered with silky chocolate cream and finished with a glossy chocolate ganache, every bite was rich, indulgent and deeply satisfying without being overly sweet.

Double Chocolate Cake

Cafe OSG pleasantly surprised me with its unique blend of hearty local favourites, elegant beverage presentations and cosy bar-lounge ambience. Beyond the enjoyable food and drinks, what truly sets the café apart is its commitment to giving back through meaningful charitable initiatives. Whether you're looking for comforting local fare, a relaxing spot to unwind or a dining experience with purpose, Cafe OSG is well worth a visit.

Cafe OSG - Zichar Tea Room + Wine Bar
Location:  Suntec City, 3 Temasek Boulevard Tower 1 , #510-511 038983

Qiji Traditional Fish Maw

Just last year, Chef Darwin shared with us during my visit to the Sim Lim Square outlet that they would be opening another outlet at Sunset Way. As Sunset Way is one of my frequent hangouts, I was excited to hear the news.

I recently dropped by the new outlet and noticed that the menu is slightly different from Cheeky's Signature at Sim Lim Square, offering diners a few new options to explore. It's great to see Chef Darwin bringing his creations closer to the west side.

Qiji Minced POrk Noodles

Their homemade drinks were special in their own way, served in disposable bowls instead of the usual cups. We had the Pink Guava with Sour Plum and the Water Chestnut with Longan. Both drinks came chilled with refreshing agar agar bits, adding a fun texture to every sip. The pink guava drink offered a pleasant balance of sweet and tangy flavours, while the water chestnut and longan combination was light, cooling and naturally refreshing.

Assorted Homemade Drinks - $3

Let's dive into their menu specials! Guess what we had first? The Teow Chew Seahum. We proudly belong to the "Ai Hum" team, so this was an easy order for us.

These fresh cockles were served with traditional condiments that complemented their natural flavour beautifully. They were delightfully bloody, juicy and packed with umami goodness. If you're a fellow cockle lover and don't mind enjoying them in their authentic style, this is definitely worth a try.

Teow Chew Seahum - $9.80

Next up was the Gong Gong, often regarded as the Chinese version of the French escargot. Served simply to let the freshness shine, these sea snails were firm, sweet and incredibly fresh. Best of all, there was no gamey taste at all. Just grab a toothpick and enjoy the natural flavours hidden within each shell.

Gong Gong - $9.80

Perhaps the most unique item on the menu was the Crocodile Ribs Soup. It's not every day that you come across crocodile ribs, making this a rather interesting find.

Served in a claypot, the soup was nourishing, comforting and naturally sweet. As for the meat, it was surprisingly tender and tasted very much like pork. In fact, if I hadn't been told it was crocodile, I would have easily mistaken it for pork ribs. A worthwhile order for those looking to try something a little different.

Claypot Nourishing Crocodile Ribs Fish Maw Soup - $28

The Fried XL Shrimp Wanton (4pcs) turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Deep-fried to a beautiful golden brown, they were light and crispy without being overly oily. Each bite revealed a flavourful filling that paired perfectly with the crunchy exterior. Simple yet satisfying, this was one dish that disappeared from the table rather quickly.

Fried XL Shrimp Wanton (4pcs) - $480

The Roasted Cauliflower was something we don't usually order, but it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Cooked just right, the cauliflower retained a slight bite without being too hard. Lightly seasoned and full of natural sweetness, it made for a simple yet addictive dish that balanced out the richer items on the table.

Roasted Cauliflower - $4.80

For something more comforting, we had the Mixed Pork Fish Maw Soup paired with Pork Lard Pearl Rice. The soup came with both sliced pork and minced pork, creating a hearty and satisfying bowl.

The broth was sweet, flavourful and enriched with fish maw, while a touch of pepper added a gentle kick. 

Mixed Pork with Pork Lard Pearl Rice 综合猪肉猪油渣饭 - $6.90

The fragrant pearl rice, topped with crispy pork lard, complemented the soup beautifully, making this a comforting combination that is easy to enjoy.

Pork Lard Rice

We had the Cheeky Signature with Dry Bee Hoon, and this is probably the dish to order if you want a bit of everything. The hearty bowl came packed with prawns, fish maw, clams, minced meat, meatballs and more, making every spoonful a satisfying one.

The dry bee hoon was springy and well-seasoned, while the crispy pork lard added an extra layer of fragrance and texture. Paired with the rich and flavourful soup, this was easily one of the most complete and comforting dishes on the table.

Cheeky Signature with Bee Hoon (Dry) 

The lala clams were plump, fresh and cooked just right. Most importantly, they were free from any sandy grit, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through. A simple ingredient, but one that added plenty of flavour to the already hearty bowl.

Clams 

One thing I appreciated was that the fish maw soup base is refillable, and every refill came with a friendly smile. To soak up all that rich and comforting goodness, we also ordered some you tiao, which paired wonderfully with the soup.

A special mention goes to their coriander peanut sauce, which added an extra layer of flavour to many of the dishes. With hearty food, attentive service and a few unique menu items, I certainly wouldn't mind returning again for another satisfying meal.

Orders

Qiji Minced Pork Noodle
Location: 106 Clementi Street 12, #01-62, Singapore 120106

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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 (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.

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

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

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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