老招牌云吞面 Wantan Noodle

Besides the popular Jue Yan Lor Mee at Bukit Batok West Hawker Centre, Lao Zhao Pai Wantan Noodle stands out as another must-try gem for noodle lovers.

Wantan Noodle 

Let’s uncover what makes this “old signboard” wantan noodle special. We went for Set A, which includes five pieces of crispy fried wanton, a bowl of comforting soup with wantans, and their Signature Wanton Noodle topped with another crispy wanton. Dipping the fried wantons into the thousand island sauce was a game-changer, definitely yummy and satisfying!

Signature Wanton Noodle + Fried Wanton (5pcs) - $6.20

The Signature Wantan Noodle was a solid pick, springy noodles topped with slices of char siew and fresh greens. Toss it all together with the savory sauce and spring onions, and you’ve got a comforting bowl full of texture and flavor.

 Signature Wanton Noodle (Dry) - $4.50

I wouldn’t mind coming back for another bowl of their wantan mee, satisfying, flavorful, and just the kind of comfort food that keeps you craving more.

老招牌云吞面 Wantan Noodle
Location: Bukit Batok West Hawker Centre, 469 Bukit Batok West Ave 9, #01-06 , Singapore 650469

Fried Carrot Cake

Finally back for Fried Carrot Cake after months of craving! Hit the queue as early as 7am on a weekend, but this time, a petite lady was single-handedly manning both woks, no familiar faces, yet the same delicious anticipation.

Fried Carrot Cake

Old habits never die. I went straight for the small Black Fried Carrot Cake. Aweeeesome! The sweet preserved veggies, egg, and black sauce, all kissed with wok hei, truly hit the spot and crushed my long-time craving.

Fried Carrot Cake (Black) - $4

If you are a fan of the classic white-style Fried Carrot Cake, skip the black sauce and go for this eggy, and full of wok hei goodness!

Fried Carrot Cake (White) - $5

Whether you like it black or white, fried carrot cake remains a timeless local favourite, comforting, flavourful, and always worth the queue.

Fried Carrot Cake
Location: Blk 448 Clementi Ave 3, #01-45, Singapore 120448

So Good Char Chan Tang

A craving for Char Bee Hoon led us to Sin Ming’s Midview City, where we ended up at So Good Char Chan Tang, unexpectedly beyond the typical coffee shop!

What’s the magic behind this plate of Fried Vermicelli that lures someone all the way from the West to Midview City early in the morning? Simplicity done right.

This plate of fried bee hoon is a simple yet comforting dish, stir-fried to a light golden hue. The thin vermicelli strands are soft yet springy, mingled with slivers of carrot, crunchy bean sprouts, and fluffy scrambled eggs. It carries a subtle wok hei aroma, with just enough seasoning to enhance the natural sweetness of the ingredients. No frills, just honest, satisfying flavor in every bite, a nostalgic classic that hits the spot.

Fried Vermicelli 炒米粉 - $3 

A staple at any Hong Kong dim sum spot, the comforting bowl of Congee didn’t disappoint. We had the Hong Kong Boat Congee, simple, hearty, and simply good.

Hong Kong Boat Congee 荔湾艇仔粥 - $6.80

Not forgetting their Shrimp Dumpling Soup, a classic Cantonese staple. The plump, juicy shrimp wrapped in translucent skin was delicious, with the crunch of water chestnut and fungus adding an extra layer of texture to each bite.

Shrimp Dumpling Soup 港式水饺汤 - $7.20

How can one miss out on their Steamed Rice Roll? We had the shrimp version, silky smooth rolls generously doused in mixed soy seasoning. Simply heavenly!

Steamed Rice Roll with Shrimp 鲜虾蒸肠粉 - $6.50

Ending our hearty Hong Kong-style meal on a sweet note, we indulged in their signature Hong Kong French Toast, golden-fried, fluffy, and crispy outside with a slab of butter melting on top. Drizzle it with syrup, and it’s pure indulgence!

French Toast 法兰西多士 - $3.50

We "ta-bao"-ed the Polo Bun with Butter , its crusty golden top paired perfectly with the pillowy soft interior, and the slab of melting butter was simply the bomb!

Polo Bun with Butter 冰镇菠萝油 - $2.40

Having breakfast here for the first time left a great impression of So Good Char Chan Tang and yes, I definitely wouldn’t mind returning again!

So Good Char Chan Tang
Location: Midview City, 26 Sin Ming Lane, #01-121, Singapore 573971

Breakfast Grill

We decided to treat ourselves to a hearty breakfast on a public holiday, and after a stroll down Lorong Kilat, Breakfast Grill caught our eye. Just as we made our choice, we were stunned to see a queue forming quickly even before the doors opened

Breakfast Grill at Lorong Kilat

Looks like the early bird really does catch the worm! The place quickly filled up right after we placed our order, and it wasn’t long before it reached full house.

The Crowd

Full House Crowd

The countertop featured a modern open-concept design, allowing us to observe the barista in action as they meticulously prepared each cup of coffee and matcha. Watching the drinks come to life added an engaging and artisanal touch to the overall café experience.

Matcha

The Strawberry Matcha was a standout for me on the café menu. Visually soothing with its beautiful swirl of green and pink, it offered a lovely balance of earthy matcha and sweet strawberry, both refreshing and therapeutic to sip on.

Strawberry Matcha - $8.50

The Mocha came with an adorable and intricate latte art that instantly lifted our mood. Rich, smooth, and chocolatey, it was a comforting pick to go along with our brunch definitely a sweet and satisfying finish to the meal.

Mocha - $7

Breakfast here is all about their crowd-favourite sammies, and we went with the Magic Mushroom—a vegan option that didn’t disappoint. It came loaded with baked organic portobello and mozzarella, creamed spinach, and a topping of crunchy enoki strings. Hearty, flavourful, and surprisingly filling—it definitely hit the spot.

Magic Mushroom

The Cheeky Fella was even more indulgent, packed with a thick, juicy fried chicken thigh, fluffy scrambled eggs, garlic aioli, and ranch dressing. Every bite was rich and satisfying, making it a solid choice for those looking for something heartier to start their day.

Cheeky Fella - $16

Worried that two sammies and drinks might not be enough, my sibling added a sausage to our order. It was served simply on a plate, garnished with a light sprinkle of chili flakes. Though minimalistic in presentation, the sausage was juicy and packed with flavor, definitely a satisfying side to round out the meal.

Sausage

It was a great start to the day with this hearty breakfast, our sammies were satisfying, the drinks delightful, and the cozy vibes just right. A truly fulfilling public holiday morning!

Sammies & Beverages

Rating: 3.25 / 5

Breakfast Grill
Location: 19 Lor Kilat, 01-02, Singapore 598120

Fook Kin 福劲

Back at Killiney Road once again, this time to satisfy my cravings at Fook Kin—a spot that's become a go-to for roast meat lovers in the Orchard area. If you're in the mood for perfectly charred, juicy roast meats with rich, nostalgic flavours, this vibrant eatery is not to be missed. Whether you're here for a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, Fook Kin consistently delivers bold flavours and good vibes.

Fook Kin 福劲

Since I arrived before the dinner crowd, it was the perfect time to snap some photos of the space. The interior had a slightly nostalgic charm, with long wooden tables lined along the side and round marble-top tables taking center stage. What stood out most was the lively graffiti-style mural on the wall, it gave the place a quirky, rebellious edge that reflects the bold character of Fook Kin itself.

Interior

The iron grill gate at the entrance instantly evokes a retro charm, transporting you back to the 70s. Inside, the warm glow of hanging bulbs enclosed in birdcage-like fixtures adds a whimsical yet nostalgic touch to the space. It’s this thoughtful mix of vintage aesthetics and playful character that gives Fook Kin its distinctive personality, making it more than just a place to eat.

Nearing the Entrance

Despite already being quite full, the Signature Fried Rice managed to whet my appetite all over again. Each bite was packed with wok hei, that irresistible smoky aroma only achieved from a hot wok. The fragrant rice was tossed with fluffy egg, chunks of savoury roasted pork, and a medley of ingredients that came together in perfect harmony

Signature Fried Rice -$8.50

For those who enjoy pairing their roast delights with carbs, the rice bowl featuring their signature Char Siew and Roast Pork is a great option. The Roast Pork was especially satisfying, with a top layer of perfectly crackling skin that added crunch to every bite. The Char Siew had a well-balanced ratio of fat to meat, coated in a glossy, caramelised glaze that enhanced its smoky sweetness. Served alongside house-pickled vegetables and half an onsen egg, the bowl was both hearty and comforting.

Signature Char Siew Roast Pork Rice Bowl -$12.30

If rice isn’t your thing, you can also choose to pair your roast meats with Mee Pok or Mee Kia. This noodle version swaps out the pickles and egg for crackling pork lard and refreshing strips of cucumber. The noodles were springy and tossed in a well-seasoned base sauce, just be sure to give them a good mix before digging in to enjoy the full burst of flavo

Signature Char Siew Roast Pork Noodle Bowl - $12.30

The presentation of the Wok Hei Curry Mama Char Siew Roast Pork instantly reminded me of a hearty bowl of Nyonya Laksa with shredded cucumber, onions, and a vibrant curry base. This version features bee hoon as the carb foundation, generously topped with chunky slices of roast pork and char siew, all soaking up the rich, flavorful curry. While the roast meats were undeniably satisfying, the lotus root chips truly stole the spotlight crispy, golden, and oh-so-indulgent, tempting us to reach for our chopsticks the moment it hit the table.

Wok Hei Curry Mama Char Siew Roast Pork - $8.50

I often call them "UFOs," but they’re more commonly known as Her Kiao (fish dumplings). These plump delights were served in a comforting bowl of soup, soaking up all the warm, savoury goodness. While the filling was tasty and satisfying, I found the skin a tad too thick for my liking. Still, they made a nostalgic and hearty addition to the meal.

Her Kiao Soup - $13.30

The soup of the day was Old Cucumber with Pork, a comforting, homely broth that carried natural sweetness. The pork was tender, and the old cucumber had been simmered till soft, making each spoonful soothing and satisfying.

Soup of the Day - $9.30

Fook Kin continues to impress with its hearty roast delights and playful yet nostalgic setting. Whether you're here for a quick bowl of noodles or indulging in their signature rice dishes, the quality and flavors remain consistent. It's a satisfying spot for anyone around Orchard craving comforting, well-executed roasts with a modern twist.

Our Orders

Fook Kin 福劲
Location: 111 Killiney Rd, Singapore 239553

Hopscotch (Gillman Barracks)

Tucked away in a charming corner of the city, Hopscotch offers a laid-back yet stylish retreat for those seeking good food, craft cocktails, and a welcoming vibe. 

Hopscotch

With both indoor and outdoor seating options, it caters perfectly to different moods. Whether you're looking to unwind in air-conditioned comfort or soak in the evening air under ambient string lights. Our recent visit to Hopscotch was a refreshing escape, and we were eager to see if the buzz surrounding this spot lived up to the experience.

A view from the outdoors

Hopscotch at Gillman Barracks is a craft cocktail bar that seamlessly blends Singaporean identity with bold creativity—right from its drinks to its industrial-chic interior. The location in Gillman Barracks, a contemporary arts cluster housed in a former military barracks, gives Hopscotch a unique edge: it's a little off the beaten path, but full of character.

Hopscotch

We had the option to choose between outdoor and indoor seating. Given the hot and humid weather, we opted for the air-conditioned indoor area, which we felt would be more comfortable.

Outdoor Seats

That said, both seating areas offered a relaxing and calm ambience.

Indoor Seats

Hopscotch is known for its locally inspired cocktails, many of which pay homage to Singapore’s culture, history, and flavors. Drinks like the Lion City Tiki, Wishing Lantern, and A Decade in Time aren't just cocktails, they're storytelling experiences served in imaginative vessels, from metal tin cups to hourglass-shaped glassware.

Inside Hopscotch

I honestly can't find more reasons to love Hopscotch—it’s already won me over! Right from the start, I was completely drawn in by their fanciful signature cocktails. Each one is a visual treat, with stunning presentations that truly wow and elevate the entire experience.

Inspired by the tradition of Chinese lanterns where wishes are written and released into the sky in a moment of fleeting magic, this cocktail captures that sense of wonder in every sip.

Wish Upon A Lantern - $26

A vibrant blend of gin, mangosteen juice, lime, Thai basil, and palm sugar cordial is elevated with Kyoho Murasaki grape liqueur and a whisper of kewra water. Bright, aromatic, and subtly floral, it’s a drink that feels like a wish come true.

Drink in the Lantern

This cocktail is a bold tribute to the Merlion, Singapore’s mythical guardian. It draws inspiration from the legend of Prince Sang Nila Utama, who, after weathering a fierce storm, encountered a lion on a distant island and named it Singapura, meaning "Lion City" in Sanskrit.

Crafted with a rum blend, orchid cordial, kumquat, sugarcane juice, Cocchi Americano, citrus, and Elemakule Tiki bitters, it’s finished with refreshing water chestnut jelly. Tropical, vibrant, and unapologetically local, it feels almost patriotic to order.

Lion City Tiki - $24

Created for Hopscotch’s 10th anniversary, this cocktail is a multisensory experience that blends apple flower and kumquat gin, sakura Mancino, soursop, blue pea vanilla, hops tincture, and a hint of chocolate and mint. Served in an hourglass-shaped glass within a glowing infinity mirror, it symbolizes the passage of time and Hopscotch’s journey. Guests can scan a QR code on the display to explore the bar’s story, making each sip part of a larger narrative.

'A Decade in Time'

A nostalgic twist on a local favorite, this creamy cocktail channels the beloved pandan waffle with flavors of kaya, Nutella, and sweet corn. Featuring brown butter–washed dark rum, Advocaat, Gula Melaka, coconut ice cream, pandan shortbread bitters, crème de cacao white, and milk, it's topped with kaya foam for that classic touch. Served in a retro metal tin cup with a quarter slice of pandan waffle on its cover, this Heartland Signature is a sip of sweet memories that made us go wow.

Heartland Signature -$23

Here’s something to snack on while sipping drinks and enjoying conversation before the mains arrive. We had the Chicken Nacho Carnitas, a messy, satisfying bar bite that hits all the right notes. Thin crispy nachos loaded with pulled basil chicken salsa, nacho cheese, sour cream, and a refreshing lemongrass & kaffir lime guacamole that adds a zesty twist.

Chicken Nacho Carnitas - $16

The gourmet sausage platter was a great choice for sharing, featuring four varieties: veal sausage, chicken bockwurst, pork bratwurst, and beef frankfurter. Each bite paired beautifully with honey mustard and BBQ sauce, all served atop a bed of velvety garlic mashed potatoes and zesty cornichons for that extra pop of flavour.

Gourmet Sausage Platter - $28

The Teriyaki Wagyu Pizza instantly brought to mind the comforting flavors of okonomiyaki, but with a modern, indulgent twist. Served on a rustic wooden board, this fusion masterpiece featured melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu cubes that stole the spotlight. Each bite was layered with sweet teriyaki glaze, soft slices of onion, umami-rich nori, and a gentle kick of togarashi spice. What truly tied everything together were the delicate shreds of white cabbage, creating a harmony of textures and flavors that left me craving more. It’s a creative and satisfying take that bridges the best of Japanese comfort and gourmet indulgence.

Teriyaki Wagyu Pizza - $34

Saying yes to beef cheeks is easy when it's one of my ultimate comfort foods and this dish absolutely delivered. These tender cheeks were slow-simmered to perfection in a luxurious blend of Buah Keluak paste, Guinness, Port wine, butter, rich veal jus, and a medley of herbs and spices. The result? Deep, complex flavors that were both earthy and indulgent. Each bite was melt-in-your-mouth tender and incredibly satisfying. Served on a bed of creamy garlic mashed potatoes, this dish was a soulful, hearty main that you simply shouldn't miss.

Pangium Beef Bourguignon - $26

These spice-rubbed St. Louis ribs boast a flavourful crust and "fall-off-the-bone" tenderness after 16 hours of slow cooking and oven roasting. They're finished with a Chinese-style sweet and sour medley of stewed summer vegetables, and served with roasted baby potatoes, prawn crackers, and tangy Peranakan achar.

Sweet & Sour Sticky Pork Ribs - $27

One of the finest cuts you can savour, the ribeye steak promises rich flavour and succulent juiciness. 

Black Garlic Ribeye Steak with Bone Marrow Butter - $36

This 250g Australian ribeye is elevated with bone marrow butter and served alongside sesame-roasted Brussels sprouts, black garlic mash, caramelised onions, and a luscious brandy sauce.

250g Australian Ribeye

Hopscotch (Gillman Barracks)
Location: 45 Malan Rd, Singapore 109455
Nearest Station:  Labrador Park MRT Station (CC27)

Website