Food, Lifestyle, Travel & Photography: Nong Geng Ji (VivoCity) 农耕记湖南土菜

Monday, March 30, 2026

Nong Geng Ji (VivoCity) 农耕记湖南土菜

A midweek visit to Nong Geng Ji for some bold Hunan flavours turned out to be livelier than expected, with the front area already packed with eager diners.

Nong Geng Ji (Vivocity) Branch

Tucked away in a quieter corner deeper inside, our small group found the perfect spot to unwind sharing hearty dishes, easy conversations, and plenty of laughter in a more peaceful setting.

Back End Seatings

At Nong Geng Ji, the décor beautifully reflects its name, “Nong” (农), meaning farm through a warm and immersive countryside setting. A large mural of rustic village houses surrounded by lush greenery sets the tone, evoking the simplicity and charm of rural Hunan living. Paired with earthy tones and homely textures, the space feels comforting and grounded, perfectly echoing the restaurant’s focus on hearty, farm-style cuisine.

Nong Geng Ji Decor

We started the meal with a comforting bowl of Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth soup, perfect for sharing among the table. The broth was rich yet clean, delivering a homely, stomach-warming quality that reminded us of a hearty home-cooked dinner. The lotus root was well-prepared, retaining a soft yet slightly crunchy texture, while the pork ribs were tender and flavourful, adding depth and natural sweetness to the soup.

Lotus Root with Superior Pork Broth 莲藕排骨汤

Another comforting classic has to be the Steamed Organic Egg with Minced Pork, a dish that instantly brings back memories of a typical Chinese Singaporean home-cooked meal. The eggs were silky smooth and custardy, soaking up the savoury juices from the well-seasoned minced pork on top. Simple yet nourishing, this humble dish delivers both flavour and protein, making it a timeless favourite that never fails to satisfy.

Steamed Organic Egg with Minced Pork 肉沫蒸有机蛋

The Braised Pork with Preserved Mustard Greens pairs perfectly with a bowl of rice, offering a comforting balance of savoury and umami flavours. The pork was well-marinated, allowing the flavours to fully penetrate and enhance the overall taste of the dish. Tender and less fatty than the usual cuts, it leans towards a lighter, healthier take while still delivering the rich, satisfying essence of this traditional favourite.

Braised Pork with Preserved Mustard Greens 梅菜扣肉

The Stir-Fried Kampong Chicken with Tea Oil was another excellent companion to our bowls of rice. Savoury with a gentle hint of spice, the dish stood out with its delightful mix of textures from the tender chicken to the crunch of turnip and black fungus. Each bite was aromatic and flavourful, with the tea oil adding a subtle fragrance that tied everything together beautifully.

Stir-Fried Kampong Chicken with Tea Oil 茶油炒甘榜鸡

A thoughtful touch to the meal is their signature serving of steamed rice, prepared in a high-pressure cooker with sweet potato and red dates. This method brings out a natural sweetness and fragrance, elevating it beyond the usual plain rice. Each bowl is light yet flavourful, with subtle hints of sweetness that pair beautifully with the savoury dishes on the table.

Steamed Rice with Sweet Potato & Red Dates 高压锅红薯米饭

The Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone & Chilli was a delightful dish, with a well-balanced sauce that coated the ingredients without being overly heavy. Each bite delivered a satisfying mix of savoury flavours, complemented by a gentle kick of spice. The abalone added a pleasant bite, elevating the dish further, while the overall harmony of flavours made it a perfect pairing with our bowls of rice.

Stir-Fried Pork with Abalone & Chilli 鲍鱼辣椒炒肉

A truly hearty and satisfying meal overall, with each dish thoughtfully executed and full of flavour. Beyond the bold Hunan influences, there was a comforting familiarity in several dishes that made the experience feel almost like a home-cooked spread. It’s the kind of meal that not only fills the stomach but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table.