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

The Peranakan Restaurant Singapore

 As April comes to a close, it has truly been a fruitful month filled with memorable feasts. I’m grateful for the time spent dining, sharing laughter, and creating joyful moments over good food with wonderful company.

One of the highlights this month was finally visiting The Peranakan Restaurant, a spot that had long been on my list. After much anticipation, we managed to secure a reservation, and it felt especially satisfying to finally experience it in person.

The Peranakan Singapore

The visit was made even more special as it was a birthday celebration thoughtfully arranged by my foodie friends at one of my go-to restaurants. Surrounded by familiar flavours and great company, it turned into a warm, heartfelt gathering filled with good vibes, laughter, and of course, plenty of delicious dishes to enjoy together.

The Peranakan Restaurant Singapore Menu

Despite being located in a humble HDB shophouse, I was genuinely impressed by how the restaurant is thoughtfully designed. The space is modernly furnished, yet beautifully adorned with Peranakan ornaments and décor that preserve the richness of the culture. It strikes a nice balance between contemporary comfort and traditional charm.

The ambience feels warm and inviting, making it an ideal place to gather and dine. This is further complemented by their impeccable service, where the staff were attentive and welcoming, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.

Furnishings

I had a refreshing glass of lemongrass blue pea drink, which was presented in a rather thoughtful way. The beverage itself was light and non-sweet, allowing the natural fragrance of lemongrass to come through clearly. On the side, a small serving of sugared blue pea syrup was provided, giving me the option to adjust the sweetness to my liking.

What made it even more delightful was its presentation, the glass was beautifully adorned with an orchid, adding a touch of elegance and a subtle Peranakan charm to the entire experience.

Lemongrass Blue Pea - $8

The keropok keping, more commonly known as tempeh crackers, made for a great time-passer as we nibbled on them while waiting for the rest of our friends to arrive. Light, crispy, and slightly nutty, they were simple yet addictive, setting a nice, casual start to the meal.

Keropok Keping

We usually go for the prawn version of Kueh Pie Tee, but since they offered crab meat, we decided to try it. The presentation was quite elaborate, served on a long wooden board with each component clearly separated, making it easy to appreciate and assemble each bite.

Kueh Pai Ti with Crab Meat - $25

We filled up the cup generously, finishing it off with a stalk of coriander for a simple yet elegant touch.

Filling up the cup of Kueh Pai Ti

The Sup Bak Wan Kepiting is definitely not to be missed. Slow-cooked for 8 hours, the soup delivers a light yet savoury broth, enriched with crab meat, bamboo shoots, and tender meatballs. From the very first sip, we were pleasantly surprised and completely won over. It’s a truly comforting heritage soup that leaves a lasting impression.

Sup Bak Wan Kepiting - $15

The prawn ngoh hiang, deep-fried rolls filled with seasoned pork and prawn, was cut into five pieces and served with chilli and sweet sauce on the side. The skin was delightfully crispy, while the filling was generously packed and flavourful. The presentation was elevated with the use of a banana leaf, adding a nice traditional touch.

Prawn Ngoh Hiang - $15

We also had the mackerel fish otah, which was rich in spices with a gentle kick of heat. Fragrant and well-balanced, it delivered a satisfying blend of flavours in every bite.

Mackerel Fish Otah - $12

The Ayam Buah Keluak, often referred to as the “truffle of the East,” featured tender chicken cooked with rich buah keluak nuts in a traditional preparation. Deep, earthy, and complex in flavour, it’s a classic Peranakan dish that truly stands out.

Ayam Buah Keluak - $22

I really enjoyed the Nyonya chap chye, a well-executed mixed vegetable stew done in true Peranakan style. Comforting and flavourful, it worked just as well on its own or paired perfectly with a bowl of rice.

Nyonya Chap Chye - $12

It tasted traditionally delicious, with generous cuts of mushrooms, black fungus, and vermicelli, adding both texture and depth to the dish.

Chap Chye Stewed to Perfection

The fragrant pork trotters, braised with fermented soybean and shallots, delivered a rich and savoury depth of flavour. Each bite was hearty and aromatic, making it a truly satisfying dish.

Babi Pongteh Sum Chan - $22

The Rempah Nenas Udang, a classic pineapple and prawn dish, was truly appetising. The gravy was tangy and flavourful, and we especially loved how plump and juicy the prawns were simply slurp-worthy.

Rempah Nenas Udang - $22

Instead of the usual white rice, we opted for the blue pea fragrant rice to pair with the Peranakan dishes, adding both visual appeal and a subtle aroma that complemented the meal beautifully.

Blue Pea Fragrant Rice Per Pax - $2

Every dish we tried left a strong impression, and by the end of the meal, we were completely won over. From the comforting classics to the thoughtfully executed flavours, each plate reflected care, authenticity, and a deep respect for Peranakan cuisine. It’s a place that not only satisfies the palate but also creates a memorable dining experience, one that we would gladly return to again.

The Peranakan Restaurant Singapore
Location: 57 Lengkok Bahru, #01-477, Singapore 151057

The Curry Wok

Returning to The Curry Wok after 6 years, this time with friends to relive and savour the comforting flavours of Peranakan cuisine together.

The Curry Wok

The Interior has not got much changes and still remains neat and simple with some B&W pictures in frame hanging along both sides of the wall into the eatery.

Interior

When I spotted Buah Long Long on the drinks menu, I ordered it immediately. It's not something you see every day. The drink was unmistakably sour yet perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness, making it uniquely refreshing and so enjoyable.

Buah Long Long Drink 

The steamed otah was served as a compact block, resting on a base of banana leaf that added a subtle aroma to every bite. Its texture was soft and moist, with a gentle heat that made it enjoyable even for those who prefer milder spice levels.

Steamed Otah - $13

Delectable and comforting, it paired perfectly with the plain plates of rice we had, turning a simple meal into something even more satisfying.

Otah Cross Section

The homemade Ngo Hiang was packed generously, each roll filled to the brim and wrapped in a thin, crispy layer of beancurd skin that added a delightful crunch. Every slice was uniformly cut, making it easy to enjoy piece by piece. Simply dip it into the sweet dipping sauce and savour the satisfying blend of textures and flavours in every bite.

Homemade Ngo Hiang - $13

The Braised Pork Knuckle was an absolute showstopper the moment it was placed before us. Its glossy, collagen-rich skin glistened invitingly, while the meat beneath was incredibly tender.

Braised Pork Knuckle - $29

 With just a little effort, it fell cleanly off the bone, revealing rich, savoury flavours that made every bite deeply satisfying.

Meat Tender

The Curry Fish Head was another highlight of the 4-pax meal. The fish head was undeniably fresh, soaking up the rich and fragrant curry that carried just the right depth of flavour. Generous chunks of ladies’ fingers, brinjal, and tomatoes simmered within the gravy, adding both colour and texture to the dish. It was a hearty, comforting classic that tied the meal together beautifully.

Curry Fish Head - $29

The Chap Chye complemented the meal wonderfully. The cabbage, black fungus, carrot, and vermicelli were simmered until soft, soaking up the naturally sweet and comforting broth. It was a simple yet satisfying dish that balanced the richer flavours on the table.

Chap Chye - $13 / $16

We ended the meal on a sweet and refreshing note with the honey jelly lime dessert. Served chilled, it carried a pleasant sourness that balanced beautifully with its subtle sweetness. Light, zesty, and cooling. It was the perfect finish after a hearty spread.

Honey Jelly Lime - $4

We also had Cheng Teng, which came generously filled with longan, gingko nuts, sago, red dates, and white fungus. The sweetness was well-balanced, not overpowering at all, making it a wonderfully comforting dessert to end the meal with.

Cheng Tng - $4

For the hot dessert, we enjoyed Teochew Orh Nee, a classic treat packed with traditional flavours and pure comfort. Rich, smooth, and utterly satisfying, it was a delightful way to round off the meal.

Teochew Ornee - $5

Overall, the meal was a well-rounded feast filled with familiar flavours, generous portions, and comforting dishes that truly hit the spot. From appetisers to desserts, each item brought its own charm to the table, creating a satisfying dining experience from start to finish. It was one of those meals that reminded us why sharing good food with good company is always worth the trip.

The Curry Wok
Location: 5 Coronation Rd #01-04 Coronation Arcade Singapore 269406
Nearest MRT Stations: Botanic Gardens (CC19), Tan Kah Kee (DT8)

Kokoyo Nyonya Delights

Spotted Kokoyo while I was at Jelita Mall for Craftsmen Coffee, and decided to make a return trip one day to try their Nyonya dishes at the food court. The stall is opened by a Gen Z owner, and this cosy eatery is more than just a business, it’s his heartfelt tribute to his 73-year-old grandma, whose home-cooked Peranakan meals shaped his childhood.

Kokoyo Nyonya Delights

These are definitely hot-selling items. I was advised to buy them while ordering our food, not after finishing, as these delicious Nyonya snacks would likely be gone by then. Lo and behold, she was right! By the time we were done eating, they were almost sold out.

We had 9-layered kueh, kueh salat, and ang ku kueh, all beautifully made and rich in authentic Peranakan flavours.

Nyonya Kueh

Instead of the usual fragrant white rice to pair with the dishes, we went for nasi lemak. We ordered the kosong version, which came with fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, egg, and a dollop of sambal chilli, simple yet satisfying.

Nasi Lemak Kosong 原味椰浆饭 - $5.80

If you’d like to make it a set with the Nasi Lemak, do check out their menu too. We had ours with Ayam Buah Keluak, though there wasn’t a physical black nut (Buah Keluak) in sight, you could definitely taste its rich, earthy essence infused into the sauce.

Ayam Buah Keluak 娘惹黑果椰浆饭

We also ordered the Babi Pongteh, and it didn’t disappoint. The gravy was rich and savoury, perfect for drizzling over the rice, while the meat was tender and flavourful without being too tough.

Babi Pongteh 娘惹香焖猪肉 - $7.80

The Custard Seafood Otak truly lives up to its name. The texture was soft and sponge-like, quite a contrast from the firmer versions we were used to. With every bite, you could see bits of fresh fish within the custard, adding a nice touch of authenticity to the dish.

Custard Seafood Otak 新鲜欧塔 - $7.80

Unfortunately, there was no Pig Stomach Soup available that day, so we went with their Fish Soup instead. It turned out to be a pleasant surprise, flavourful, milky broth filled with generous chunks of fish and slices of bittergourd, making it a comforting alternative.

Fish Soup

The quintessential item in any Nyonya cuisine has to be the Chap Chye. A delightful medley of ingredients like beancurd skin, carrots, cabbage, spring onions, black fungus, and vermicelli. A comforting dish that’s perfect on its own or paired with a plate of rice.

Nyonya Chap Chye 娘惹杂菜 - $5.80 

KokoYo Nyonya Delights are decently priced for a food court setting, and with its comforting Peranakan flavours, I wouldn’t mind bringing friends back again for another round.

Kokoyo Nyonya Delights
Location: Jelita Mall, 293 Holland Road 278628, #02-18, 278628