TriCow Hotpot & BBQ Buffet 犇火锅烧烤自助

 Recently made a visit to Tricow at West Coast Plaza for their 100 Minutes Hotpot & BBQ Buffet, a spot that will definitely appeal to beef lovers and those who enjoy gathering over a hearty meal. 

The buffet offers up to 20 types of beef alongside a wide variety of classic hotpot ingredients, making it a satisfying dining experience for both hotpot and BBQ fans.

Besides the extensive meat selection, the buffet line also includes BBQ skewers, fresh vegetables, cold dishes, snacks, drinks, and desserts. There was a good variety available, allowing diners to enjoy both heavier and lighter options throughout the meal. Whether you prefer grilling meats over the BBQ or simmering ingredients in a comforting soup base, there is plenty to choose from.

Assorted Chinese Skewers

Guests can also customise their dining experience with 5 different soup bases and 4 dipping sauces available. These are charged separately from the buffet price, but they help elevate the overall flavours and make the meal more enjoyable.

Beef Bone and Tomato Broth Soup Base

Signature Sauce, Sesame Sauce, Special Chilli Sauce and Sacha Sauce

The buffet is priced at $38 for adults and $28 for children during both lunch and dinner sessions from 11am to 2pm and 5pm to 9pm. Ladies can also enjoy a special Wednesday promotion where every 3 ladies dining will receive 1 free buffet (excluding public holidays), making it a great option for gatherings with friends and family.

Very Comfortable Settings of Tricow

Beyond the hearty buffet spread, Tricow also features a cosy and playful interior that adds to the dining experience. The space is decorated with adorable cow plushies and bright decorative elements, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere for diners. The warm wooden accents and comfortable seating made it feel like a casual spot to relax and enjoy a comforting hotpot meal with friends and family.

A cozy dining space made even cuter with adorable cow plushies 

One of the highlights at Tricow was watching the staff expertly hand-slice fresh beef behind the counter, preparing thin and tender cuts made fresh upon order for the hotpot and BBQ experience.

Fresh Beef Hand-Sliced Upon Order at Tricow

An indulgent spread of freshly sliced beef featuring different cuts and marbling, served alongside bubbling hotpot broth and flavourful dipping sauces at Tricow.

Different Cuts a Marbling

Tricow also impressed with its wide variety of beef cuts, allowing diners to enjoy the different textures and flavour profiles from the various parts of the beef. From fattier cuts with beautiful marbling to leaner slices with a meatier bite, each platter offered its own unique taste when cooked in the hotpot or over the BBQ grill. The thinly sliced beef cooked quickly in the bubbling broth while still retaining its tenderness, making it easy to savour the natural richness and juiciness of the meat. For beef lovers, the buffet provided plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy different cuts throughout the meal.

A satisfying spread of different beef cuts at Tricow, featuring beautifully sliced meats with varying levels of marbling for both hotpot and BBQ enjoyment.

Besides indulging in the wide variety of meats, we also made sure to balance the meal with selections from the vegetables section. The spread included fresh leafy greens, mushrooms, lotus root, radish, and potato slices which paired well with the hotpot broth. It added a lighter and more refreshing touch to the overall buffet experience while complementing the richness of the meats.

Adding some fresh vegetables to balance out the hearty hotpot feast. 

Of course, no hotpot session feels complete without the classic staple ingredients that everyone loves adding into the bubbling broth. From fish balls and dumplings to tofu pouches, crab sticks, and other comforting hotpot essentials, these ingredients added extra variety and texture to the meal. They soaked up the flavours of the soup beautifully and made the overall dining experience feel even more satisfying and comforting.

Classic hotpot staples that complete every comforting hotpot feas

For those who enjoy more adventurous hotpot ingredients, Tricow also offers beef tripe and beef tendon as part of the buffet selection. The beef tripe carried a pleasantly chewy and slightly crunchy texture after cooking in the broth, while the beef tendon became soft and gelatinous with a rich bite. 

Beef tripe

These classic hotpot favourites added more variety to the meal and paired especially well with the flavourful dipping sauces.

Beef Tendon

Not forgetting the handmade seafood paste selections too. Smooth, bouncy, and packed with natural sweetness a comforting hotpot essential that soaked up all the rich broth flavours beautifully.

Fish Paste

Shrimp Paste

Not forgetting the auspicious fortune bag in our hotpot feast. A symbolic ingredient believed to bring luck and prosperity, especially when enjoyed during gatherings. Soft, juicy, and fully soaked in the comforting broth, it made the meal feel even more hearty and satisfying.

Fortune Bag for Hotpot

Last but not least, we wrapped up the hearty hotpot feast with their homemade desserts. From the refreshing white fungus sweet soup to the cooling herbal jelly topped with sweet toppings, both desserts were light, comforting, and a satisfying end to the meal.

Refreshing White Fungus Soup

Herbal Jelly 

The hotpot experience was made even more enjoyable with the wide variety of ingredients, comforting broths, handmade seafood pastes, and delightful homemade desserts to end the meal on a sweet note. From premium meats to comforting staples and auspicious items like the fortune bag, every dish came together for a hearty and satisfying feast perfect for gatherings with family and friends.

TriCow Hotpot & BBQ Buffet 犇火锅烧烤自助 
Location: West Coast Plaza, West Coast Rd, #01-02  Singapore 127371
Website

Pastamo

It’s been a while since my last visit to Circular Road, and I’m finally back in the evening to soak in the after-hours vibes of this bustling CBD area.

This time, we dropped by Pastamo, a Japanese-Italian pasta bar known for its affordable $19.90 nett set meals, which come with a main, drink, and no extra service charge. A pretty fuss-free spot to unwind after work while enjoying comforting pasta dishes in the heart of the city.

Entrance of Pastamo

It’s not too difficult to locate Pastamo along the stretch of eateries and shophouses at Circular Road. If you’re walking through the corridors, just keep an eye out for the LED-lit fork with spaghetti signage that makes the spot stand out from afar.

Facade of Pastamo

We also had a refreshing lineup of drinks to pair with the pasta dishes, the Tiramisu Latte with its rich coffee notes, the Strawberry Matcha that carried a creamy earthy sweetness, and the Iced Grape Jasmine Tea which was light, floral and especially cooling for the evening.

Peach Black Frizzy $8 , Strawberry Matcha $6  and Iced Grape Jasmine Tea $6

Before diving into the pasta dishes, we grabbed some bites with the Crispy Mid Joints. Loved the loose crispy batter bits that added an extra layer of crunch on the outside, while the chicken remained juicy and tender inside. Definitely a satisfying starter to kick off the meal.

Crispy Mid Joints - $10

The Fried Tortellini looked absolutely cute, and with its bite-sized form, it was dangerously easy to keep popping them into the mouth one after another. Crisp on the outside with cheesy goodness within, this made for a fun and addictive snack to share at the table.

Fried Tortellini - $12

The Spaghetti with Clams, Garlic, White Wine & Chilli delivered comforting aglio olio vibes with a light spicy kick. The pasta was coated nicely with the garlicky white wine sauce, while the clams added a natural briny sweetness that paired well with the burst of freshness from the cherry tomatoes.

Vongole

The Duck Ragu Tagliatelle featured slow-cooked duck ragu tossed with silky tagliatelle, creating a rich and comforting combination. The duck carried a tender texture with deep savoury flavours, while the creamy sauce and onsen egg brought everything together beautifully with an added layer of indulgence.

Duck Ragu

The Tomato Cream Crab Pasta featured spaghetti coated in a rich tomato cream sauce together with chunks of crab meat for added sweetness and flavour. The sauce leaned creamy and savoury with a slight tang from the tomato base, while the generous shaving of cheese gave the dish an extra layer of indulgence.

Tomato Cream Crab

Overall, Pastamo makes for a pretty cosy and fuss-free spot along Circular Road to gather after work over comforting Japanese-Italian dishes. From the addictive fried bites to the hearty pasta selections, the dishes leaned approachable and satisfying without being overly heavy. 

Front View of Our Order

Coupled with its affordable nett set meals and relaxed after-hours atmosphere in the CBD area, it’s definitely a pleasant place to chill, catch up with friends, and enjoy a casual pasta night in town.

Top View of our Order

Pastamo
Location: 17 Circular Rd, Singapore 049373

Seletar Traven

An evening well spent at Seletar Tavern for dinner and heartfelt catch-ups with friends at Seletar Country Club. Open to the public, the tavern offers live band performances every Wednesday to Saturday, creating the perfect setting to unwind after a long day.

We headed down not just for the comforting food and live music, but also to soak in the serene atmosphere as the skies slowly transitioned into the beautiful blue hour. With lush greenery, peaceful surroundings, and calming sunset views, it made for a truly relaxing and memorable evening.

Beautiful Sunset at Seletar Country Club

What I really liked about the place was that despite being tucked away from the busy city areas, it was still bustling with people enjoying their evening. The atmosphere at the outdoor deck felt lively yet relaxing, with diners gathering over good food, conversations, and sunset views. To make it even better, parking is complimentary, making the visit much more convenient and enjoyable for everyone spending their evening there.

Outdoor Dining Deck at Seletar Tavern during Sunset 

Should you prefer a sheltered seating option, the indoor area offers a cosy and comfortable atmosphere with tables situated closer to the live band performances, allowing diners to better enjoy the music and vibrant evening ambience.

Indoor Dining  Area

Keeping things chill with ice-cold beers and refreshing beverages in hand perfectly paired with the sunset views for that laid-back, unwind kind of vibe. 

Beer & beverages 

Starting things off with some local bites before the mains, satay paired with crisp sides, best enjoyed with a cold beer in hand. Cheers to good food, great company, and soaking in the beautiful sunset views.

The satay comes with both peanut and pineapple sauces, adding a sweet-savoury twist to each bite. Paired with neatly cut ketupat, cucumber, and onions, it makes for a well-balanced and satisfying starterperfect for dipping and enjoying.

Beer & Pork Satay 

We enjoyed a nourishing bowl of Double-Boiled Black Chicken Soup with Baby Abalone & Ginseng Root. The soup was rich and herbal, delivering comforting flavours that suited our taste buds perfectly. Paired with tender black chicken, sweet red dates, baby abalone and ginseng root. Every sip felt hearty, wholesome and deeply flavourful with a comforting herbal potency.

Double-Boiled Black Chicken Soup with Baby Abalone & Ginseng Root

When it comes to herbal chicken dishes, it is always hard to say no. The Herbal Steamed Spring Chicken with Chinese Wine was deeply comforting, served in a fragrant herbal broth that was pleasantly sweet rather than bitter, thanks to the use of wolfberries and carefully balanced herbs. The chicken was tender and succulent, with the rich herbal flavours beautifully infused into the meat, making every bite hearty and satisfying.

Wrapped Herbal Steamed Spring Chicken with Chinese Wine

Another impressive dish on our table was the Bittergourd Black Bean Fish Head in Claypot. Served bubbling hot with a rich savoury gravy, it paired exceptionally well with bowls of plain rice. Despite the use of bittergourd, the dish was surprisingly balanced and not overly bitter, allowing the deep black bean flavours to shine through. If you are looking for a more traditional zichar-style dish that is slightly less mainstream on the menu, this is definitely a worthy choice to try.

Bittergourd Black Bean Fish Head

A comforting addition to the table, this simple dish of Qing Long vegetables and beansprouts lets its natural flavours shine. Lightly cooked to retain that fresh crunch, it’s clean, refreshing, and a lovely balance to the richer dishes.

Stir-Fried Qinglong Vegetables with Bean Sprouts

We were pleasantly surprised to spot Wadeh Wadeh on the table, a traditional snack that added a nostalgic touch to the meal. Crispy on the outside with a soft and flavourful interior, it was enjoyable on its own and even better when paired with the spicy dipping sauce and fresh green chillies. Simple yet satisfying, it turned out to be a delightful addition to the spread.

Wadeh Wadeh

Another homely favourite on the table was the Fu Yong Egg, beautifully done with a golden, well-rounded finish. Fluffy and savoury, it’s satisfying on its own or perfect to pair with a bowl of carbs.

Fu Yong Omelette

For wine and alcohol promotions, do check out Seletar Country Club – Wines of the Month Promotions

Do also follow Seletar Country Cluband their social media pages for the latest dining promotions, live band schedules, and upcoming updates!

Seletar Tavern
Location: Seletar Country Club, 101 Seletar Club Rd, #01-00, Singapore 798273

Bonding Kitchen

A birthday treat to Bonding Kitchen, a place I’ve always wanted to try. The modern Peranakan dining spot welcomed us with a cosy ambience and elegant interior, setting the mood for an enjoyable meal ahead.

Bonding Kitchen

The menu cover felt especially close to heart, capturing a tender bonding moment between parent and child. A meaningful reflection of warmth, family and togetherness, values that resonate deeply with Peranakan dining culture.

Menu

The environment felt modern and cosy, with warm lighting and a comfortable dining ambience that made the experience feel relaxed and welcoming.

Bonding Kitchen Interior Ambience

I had their Bunga Telang Lemongrass Pandan served chilled, a homemade refreshing drink infused with blue pea flower water, lemongrass and pandan. Light, soothing and perfect for cooling down alongside the meal.

Bunga Telang Lemongrass Pandan (Cold) 香茅班兰碟豆花水(冷) - $8

These homemade Kueh Pie Tee cups immediately caught our attention with their delicate shape and crisp texture. The crispy shells are filled with julienned turnips braised in rich prawn stock, along with mushrooms and pork belly. Each cup is then topped with fresh prawns, crispy pork lard, quail egg and a touch of chilli cuka for an extra tangy kick. A classic Peranakan bite-sized delight packed with flavour and texture.

Kueh Pie Tee (4pcs) 精美拼盘小金杯(4件) - $20 

Look at how beautifully these Kueh Pie Tee were presented aesthetically pleasing and instantly appetising. The delicate crispy cups were generously filled and carefully topped with prawns, quail egg and vibrant chilli sauce, making each bite not only flavourful but visually stunning as well.

Elegant Kueh Pie Tee Presentation

Prawn Kueh Pie Tee Peranakan Appetiser

Ayam Buah Keluak, a staple dish in Nyonya cuisine. The braised local chicken leg is cooked in a rich, spicy and tangy gravy with Indonesian black nut (buah keluak), lemongrass and aromatic spices. The buah keluak nut paste was served separately in a saucer. While the presentation may appear rustic, the flavourful sauce pairs exceptionally well with rice.

Ayam Buah Keluak 黑果鸡 - $27

Who doesn’t love this classic when it comes to Nyonya cuisine? The comforting bowl of Nyonya Chap Chye features braised cabbage, mushrooms, black fungus, dried lily flowers, beancurd skin and tender pork belly simmered in a flavourful prawn broth with soybean paste. A hearty and homely dish packed with rich umami flavours.

Nyonya Chap Chye 娘惹杂菜 - $24

A bold and flavourful Nyonya favourite, this Sambal Petai Ikan Bilis features stir-fried stink beans tossed with spicy sambal, caramelised onions and crispy anchovies. The petai delivers its signature pungent bite while the ikan bilis adds a satisfying crunch and savoury umami. A gluten-free dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.

Sambal Petai Ikan Bilis 参峇臭豆江鱼仔 - $20

Bakwan Kepiting is one of the soups I always enjoy in Peranakan cuisine. This comforting bowl features handmade meatballs made with hand-chopped pork, shrimp and crab meat, served in a rich crustacean broth simmered with pork bones, trotters and chicken. The addition of bamboo shoots gives the soup an extra layer of texture and sweetness, making it both hearty and flavourful.

Bakwan Kepiting 娘惹蟹肉丸汤

A classic favourite, the Ngoh Hiang features crispy deep-fried beancurd skin rolls wrapped around a flavourful filling of hand-chopped pork, shrimp, mushrooms and crunchy water chestnuts. Seasoned with fragrant five-spice powder, the rolls are served with Bonding Kitchen’s signature sweet sauce and spicy spread for an extra punch of flavour.

Ngoh Hiang 娘惹五香肉卷 - $16

An interesting and aromatic rice selection, this basmati rice was infused with fresh turmeric and fragrant spices before being steamed with coconut milk. Lightly fluffy with a subtle richness, the rice was further elevated with crispy shallots on top for added fragrance and texture.

Tumeric Basmati Rice 黄姜印度香米饭 - $4

We also had the blue pea Thai jasmine rice to pair with the dishes. Naturally coloured using blue pea flowers, the rice carried a light floral fragrance and added a vibrant visual touch to the meal while complementing the rich Peranakan flavours beautifully.

Blue Pea Thai Jasmine Rice 粒粒香碟豆花米饭 - $2

Ending the meal on a sweet note with a refreshing bowl of Chendol. This beloved local shaved ice dessert is topped with handmade pandan jelly, creamy coconut milk, fragrant gula melaka syrup and soft red beans, bringing together a delightful balance of sweetness and richness in every spoonful.

Chendol 娘惹椰糖班兰香珍露 - $8

Enjoying the icy and satisfying bite of the Chendol. A refreshing sweet finale that ended the night perfectly.

Traditional Chendol Dessert Singapore

Overall, Bonding Kitchen offers a modern take on Peranakan cuisine with a good selection of comforting dishes, including many gluten-free options for those who are more health-conscious. The flavours were hearty and satisfying, while the presentation carried a more contemporary touch. Service was decent throughout the meal, though the dining environment can get rather noisy during peak hours as conversations and laughter tend to echo across the space. Nonetheless, it remains a pleasant spot for casual gatherings and family meals over classic Peranakan favourites.

Dishes Order

Bonding Kitchen
Location: Orchard Gateway, 277 Orchard Rd, #02-18 Orchard, Singapore 238858