Sama Sama Cuisine Y Space

Our food journey in Johor Bahru led us to a striking white colonial-style building that instantly caught our attention and admittedly, gave us a moment of pause. We couldn’t help but wonder: Was this going to be one of those places where the ambience costs as much as the meal?

But stepping into Sama Sama Cuisine quickly put those doubts to rest. Celebrating the diverse flavors of Malaysia, every dish here is a heartfelt tribute to the nation's rich culinary heritage a beautiful reflection of its culture, taste, and warmth.

Sama Sama

Thankfully, Sama Sama Cuisine proved otherwise. This No Pork, No Lard eatery celebrates the rich and diverse flavors of Malaysia, with every dish serving as a heartfelt tribute to the nation’s culinary heritage.

And just recently, on 13 March 2025, all Sama Sama Cuisine outlets received certification from iMesra, affirming their commitment to using halal and Shariah-compliant ingredients in every dish. A reassuring stamp of trust for diners seeking authenticity, quality, and peace of mind.

No Pork No Lard

Inside, Sama Sama Cuisine is just as inviting as its grand exterior. The space is bright and airy, with high ceilings, arched windows, and plenty of natural light. White walls and wooden accents give it a clean, classic feel, while touches of Malaysian culture, like rattan furniture, add warmth and character.

Dining Area

The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, whether you're seated indoors or out on the verandah. It feels like dining in a charming heritage home, with just the right mix of tradition and modern comfort.

Funishing

To beat the heat, we started with some refreshing drinks, the Passion Aloe Vera Fruit Tea was a vibrant and cooling choice, bursting with tropical flavors and a hint of natural sweetness.

Passion Aloe Vera Fruit Tea - RM 14

For the curious bunch that we are, we couldn’t resist trying the drink that shares the restaurant’s name, the Sama Sama Fruit Tea. Naturally, we assumed it had to be something special.

Sama Sama Fruit Tea - RM 14

The Pineapple Paradise was another standout served with a playful touch, a stick of juicy pineapple chunks laid neatly across the glass, making it as fun to look at as it was to drink.

Pineapple Paradise - RM14

The honey lemon aloe vera didn’t quite steal the spotlight, but it was still refreshingly good, light, zesty, and pleasant on a warm day.

Honey Lemon Aloe Vera - RM 14

That Salted Caramel Coffee Cream Chip sounds absolutely delicious! The combination of rich coffee cream with the sweet caramel and a subtle salty touch is such a winning flavor profile. And the mousse cream on top with caramel drizzle and chocolate rice must add great texture and visual appeal too.

Salted Caramel Coffee Cream Chip - RM 16

The Dark Mocha with a zig zag chocolate drizzle sounds super elegant and tempting! That kind of presentation really elevates the whole experience, makes it feel like a little work of art before you even take a sip.

Dark Mocha - RM 12

The coffee is adorned with a delicate stencil of the restaurant’s name on the creamy top layer, adding a personalized and artistic touch that elevates the coffee experience. This thoughtful design makes every sip feel special, blending rich aroma and taste with visual charm.

Kopi Xsama - RM14

Nyonya Laksa Hotpot brings the heart of Peranakan comfort to the table with a steamy, aromatic bowl of Nyonya laksa soup, creamy, spicy, and full of depth. This hotpot is generously loaded with tiger prawn, tender fish fillet, and sotong rings, delivering a burst of seafood umami in every bite. Complemented by fresh carrot, enoki mushrooms, cabbage, long beans, taupok (tofu puff), and seafood bean curd, it’s a medley of textures and flavours. We had the base of Bee Hoon to soak up that rich, flavorful broth.

Nyonya Laksa Hotpot - RM36

The Crispy Squid Lemak Rice is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that hits all the right notes. This hearty dish features fluffy nasi kukus (steamed rice) as the perfect base, topped with golden, crispy squid that adds a satisfying crunch. Complemented by Chef Mama’s spicy sambal, tender baby crab, a hard-boiled egg, refreshing cucumber, sweet pineapple, and crunchy tempeh with belacan and peanuts, every bite delivers a harmonious balance of savory, spicy, sweet, and nutty flavors. It’s a vibrant plate that offers a truly satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Crispy Squid Lemak Rice - RM28

The Chef’s Mama Rojak is a bold celebration of textures and tropical flavours. This vibrant salad features a medley of kangkung, sengkuang (jicama), jackfruit, pineapple, and guava, each bringing its own crunch and sweetness. Earthy elements like tofu puffs (tau pok) and crispy tempeh add substance, while a generous sprinkle of crushed peanuts ties everything together with a satisfying crunch. Dressed in a tangy-sweet, spicy rojak sauce, it’s a nostalgic dish with a modern twist, a true Malaysian soul food reimagined with finesse.

Tropical Harmony Rojak - RM18

Mamak Goreng Pasta was a truly Malaysian experience reimagined with a twist. Served with al dente spaghetti, this vibrant dish was generously topped with tiger prawns, sotong rings, and squid flower, adding both texture and seafood depth. Crispy tofu, bean sprouts, and egg were stir-fried together in a rich, aromatic mamak-style paste, capturing the essence of street-side wok hei. The dish was beautifully finished with cucumber slices, crushed peanuts for crunch, and a fresh calamansi wedge to brighten up the flavors.

Mamak Goreng Pasta - RM 23

This hearty plate features House’s Cut Fish Fillets, golden and crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, served with a wedge of lemon to brighten the flavors. On the side, you’ll find a generous helping of French fries, a refreshing mix of lettuce and cherry tomatoes, and two classic dips: Xsama tartar sauce for a creamy tang, and chili sauce for that sweet-heat kick. Simple, satisfying, and comforting.

The Fisherman Plate - RM33

Fish & Chicken Bolognese is where surf meets turf with a twist. Al dente spaghetti is coated in a rich, savory Bolognese paste made from chicken mince, sautéed with fragrant garlic and shallots, and sweetened with bursts of cherry tomato. The dish is crowned with a crispy, golden fried tilapia fillet, adding a flaky, seafood contrast to the hearty sauce. Finished with a dollop of Xsama tartar sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it’s a fusion of familiar comforts in every bite.

Fish & Chicken Bolognese - RM26

Aglio Olio XSama is a bold fusion of Italian tradition with a contemporary twist. This dish features perfectly tossed spaghetti in fragrant Italian Aglio e Olio paste, sautéed with golden garlic and shallots. Plump tiger prawns and smoky slices of duck elevate the richness, while enoki and shiitake mushrooms bring earthy undertones. Topped with toasted almond slices for a delicate crunch, every bite is layered with flavor, umami, and just the right hint of heat.

Aglio Olio XSama - RM24

Nanyang Chicken Chop is where local flair meets Western comfort. The signature chicken chop is pan-seared to golden perfection, juicy on the inside with a crisp, flavorful crust. It’s served alongside French fries, a refreshing mix of lettuce and cherry tomatoes, and a wedge of lemon for that extra zest. What sets this dish apart is the bold, aromatic Nanyang sauce, a house specialty that brings a uniquely Southeast Asian punch, perfectly balanced by a side of classic chili sauce.

Nanyang Chicken Chop - RM 25

Topping up the meal with a refreshing side salad! A crisp bowl of curly green lettuce and juicy cherry tomatoes, served with a zesty house-made vinaigrette. Light, vibrant, and the perfect palate cleanser to balance out the richer mains. Simple yet satisfying!

Topping Up Salad

Sama Sama Cuisine offers a heartfelt journey through flavors that bridge tradition and creativity. With its vibrant blend of local Malaysian favorites and inventive fusion dishes, the restaurant captures the warmth of home-style cooking while adding a refreshing modern twist. From soul-soothing hotpots to playful pasta creations and crisp, satisfying salads, each dish reflects a thoughtful balance of taste, texture, and heritage. Whether you're here for comfort, discovery, or simply good food, Sama Sama Cuisine invites you to sit back, savour, and feel right at home, true to its name, “sama-sama”, meaning you’re most welcome.

Sama Sama Cuisine Y Space
Location: 2, Jalan Yahya Awal, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia

Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen

With the recent buzz surrounding The Little Nyonya and its Emerald Hill Show, there’s been a noticeable resurgence of interest in all things Peranakan from traditional costumes to their rich, flavorful cuisine. Riding this cultural wave, we found ourselves craving a taste of heritage and headed to Joo Chiat, a neighborhood well-known for its Peranakan roots and vibrant food scene. While our first choice of restaurant was packed, we eventually settled on Old Bibik’s a humble spot that turned out to be a worthy alternative.

Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen

The interior was simple and unpretentious. It featured traditional round tables paired with classic wooden stools that echoed the charm of old-school Peranakan dining.

Interior and Dining Area

I started with the homemade honey butterfly pea tea,  a vibrant, refreshing drink with a subtle floral note and just the right touch of sweetness. It was a delightful way to ease into the meal.

Homemade Honey Butterfly Pea Tea - $6

While waiting for our dishes to arrive, we nibbled on crackers dipped in belachan chilli, a satisfyingly crunchy snack with a bold, umami kick. It was a great way to whet our appetites.

Keropok

The Crispy Chinchalok Omelette arrived generously sized and perfectly golden, with a side of chinchalok for dipping, adding a punchy, fermented tang that made each bite even more satisfying.

Crispy Chinchalok Omelette (Deep Fried) - $18

Their Ayam Buah Keluak was served without the signature nut, but the rich, earthy dark sauce still delivered on depth and flavor, perfect for spooning over a warm plate of rice. The dish’s naturally dark brown appearance was brightened up with a generous topping of fresh Chinese parsley, adding a touch of color and freshness to the presentation.

Ayam Buah Keluak - $17 

We also had a comforting bowl of Nyonya Chap Chye, a classic mixed vegetable stew that's a staple in many Peranakan households. This version came brimming with cabbage, black fungus, carrots, and beancurd skin, all gently braised in a light, savoury broth. What stood out was the generous topping of crispy beancurd sheets that added a delightful crunch to each mouthful. Garnished with a sprig of Chinese parsley, the dish was both hearty and well-balanced, offering a nice contrast of textures and a subtle sweetness from the stewed vegetables.

Nyonya Chap Chye - $13 

To round off the meal, we shared a warm and hearty bowl of Itek Tim, a traditional Peranakan salted vegetable duck soup. The broth was tangy and appetising, thanks to the combination of salted mustard greens, tomatoes, and sour plums, all slow-simmered with tender duck pieces. Each spoonful was comforting, with just the right balance of sourness and depth from the duck, making it the perfect counterpoint to the richer dishes we had earlier. A classic, no-frills comfort soup that brought everything together beautifully.

Itek Tim Soup - $18 

Please note that the pricing of the dishes mentioned above is based on portions suitable for 1-2 pax. We were truly satisfied with our meal here at Old Bibik’s Peranakan Kitchen. The flavours were authentic, the dishes generous, and the overall dining experience warm and inviting. Every bite reflected the rich heritage and care put into Peranakan cuisine, making it a memorable meal well worth the price. If you are looking to enjoy traditional Peranakan food in a cosy setting, Old Bibik’s is definitely a place to consider.

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen
Location: 328 Joo Chiat Rd, #01-02, Singapore 427585

Swatow City (Bukit Batok Home TeamNS)

Many years ago, I visited Swatow in Toa Payoh for dim sum, and it left a lasting impression on me. Knowing that they have a branch in the west, we made plans to head down and try their Chinese meals. It felt like a nostalgic revisit, this time with the anticipation of discovering how their full dining experience would compare.

Beverages were served in a sleek disposable can, offering a modern and convenient way to enjoy a chilled drink at Swatow.

Drink

We ordered the Roast Peking Duck with Homemade Wraps & Trio Sauce, a highlight of the evening. 

Roast Peking Duck with Homemade Wraps & Trio Sauce 北京片皮烤鸭

Like many traditional Chinese restaurants, Swatow follows the customary protocol of slicing the roasted duck skin piece by piece in front of the diners. 

Peking Duck

The glossy, crisp skin was skillfully carved and served with delicate homemade wraps and a trio of sauces, each enhancing the duck’s rich flavour in its own way.

Skin

Another star of the night was the Braised Teochew Superior Shark's Fin Soup served in a Stone Bowl with Crispy Shrimp Roll. Presented in a hot stone pot placed on a wooden board, the dish was visually striking and retained its heat throughout the meal. The soup was rich and full of umami, with a luxurious texture that spoke of careful, slow braising. Paired with the golden Crispy Shrimp Roll, which added a delightful crunch, the combination was pure yumminess from start to finish.

Braised Teochew Superior Shark's Fin Soup Serve in Stone Bowl with Crispy Shrimp Roll
金汤石锅鲍翅伴手工虾卷 - $58

While we were savoring the shark’s fin soup, the Roast Peking Duck with Homemade Wraps & Trio Sauce was served in sequence at the table, accompanied by neatly arranged cucumber and scallion, ready for wrapping and enjoying.

The Sauces, Wrap, cucumber and scallion

The duck was beautifully roasted, flavorful without being too gamey. The thin egg wrap was delicate yet held together well, perfectly complementing the savoury roasted duck skin and trio of sauces. The sauce had a pleasant sweetness that paired nicely with the rich duck, while the skin was wonderfully crispy, adding a satisfying contrast in texture with each bite.

Wrap it up!

Some of the duck meat was used to prepare a comforting plate of Ee Fu Noodles, while the rest was served separately as a generous portion on a platter. The meat was tender, flavorful, and infused with the rich, roasted essence of the duck, absolutely delicious in both presentations.

Roast Duck

One of the more visually striking dishes was the Ice Sweet & Sour Kurobuta Pork with Lychee. Served atop a bed of crushed ice, the chilled presentation added a refreshing twist to the classic sweet and sour profile. 

Ice Sweet & Sour Kurobuta Pork with Lychee
 冰沙荔枝黑豚咕噜肉

The Kurobuta pork was perfectly fried, crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. Coated in a tangy, glossy sauce and paired with chunks of pineapple, bell peppers, and whole lychees, the dish offered a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. A creative and delightful take on a familiar favorite, ideal for beating the heat.

So Yummy!

For a lighter, more refreshing touch, we had the Sautéed Asparagus & Fresh Lily Bulbs with Macadamia Nuts. The asparagus was crisp and tender, offering a satisfying crunch in every bite. Paired with delicate fresh lily bulbs, earthy mushrooms, and buttery macadamia nuts, the dish was beautifully balanced in texture and flavor. It was lightly seasoned to let the natural sweetness of the vegetables shine, a clean, nourishing contrast to the richer dishes on the table.

Sauteed Asparagus & Fresh Lily Bulbs with Macadamia Nut
夏果鲜百炒芦笋

A portion of the duck meat was cleverly repurposed into a hearty serving of Braised Ee-Fu Noodles, while the rest remained as a generous platter of roast duck. The noodles were braised just right, soft yet springy, and well-coated in a savoury sauce. Generous strips of tender duck meat were tossed in alongside crunchy bean sprouts and slivers of yellow chives, adding both texture and a subtle sweetness. It was a comforting, satisfying dish that showcased the duck in a whole new way.

Braised with Ee-Fu Noodle 烤鸭二度焖伊面 $20 

In conclusion, Swatow City offers a delightful journey into Teochew cuisine with a diverse menu ranging from fresh seafood to traditional dim sum. The dishes are crafted with authenticity and care, while the setting provides a comfortable, family-friendly dining experience. With thoughtful touches like beverages served in trendy disposable cans and islandwide delivery options, Swatow City ensures both dine-in and takeaway experiences are enjoyable and convenient. A great spot for anyone craving heartwarming Teochew flavors.

Swatow City (Bukit Batok Home TeamNS）
Location: HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok 2 Bukit Batok West Ave 7 #02-05 Singapore 659003

Website

Jin Hua Fish Head Bee Hoon

One of the most popular stalls at Old Airport Road Hawker Centre is none other than Jin Hua Fish Soup. I had been eyeing their fish soup ever since my previous visit. Unfortunately, I missed out that time as they were on their lunch break.

This time around, I finally got my chance, though it came with a price: a 30 to 45-minute wait in the queue just to get my bowl!

Jin Hua Fish Head Bee Hood

I ordered the mixed fish bee hoon soup. The broth was milky and rich, with subtle hints of cooking wine that added depth and warmth to the flavor.

The bowl was generously filled with sweet cabbage and slices of ginger, which not only added flavor but also beautifully balanced the soup's richness.

Mix Fish Bee Hoon Soup - $7

We also ordered another bowl of mixed fish soup without bee hoon, and noticed some interesting differences. This version came with tofu and tomato, which weren’t present in the bee hoon version. The tomato added a light tanginess to the broth, while the tofu gave it a comforting, silky texture. It was a subtle but notable variation, perhaps tailored to let the broth shine more on its own without the noodles.

Mixed Fish Soup - $7

The slices of fish were thick and smooth in texture, a clear sign of freshness. Each piece held up well in the hot broth without falling apart, offering a tender bite that paired perfectly with the soup’s clean, comforting flavours. 

Fish Slice

If you were to ask me to choose between the fried and non-fried fish pieces, I will go with the non-fried version. While the fried pieces add a nice and a different layer of flavor, I personally prefer the clean, smooth taste of the regular fish slices. They soak up the broth beautifully and highlight the natural sweetness of the fish, simple, yet deeply satisfying.

Fried Fish

If you ask me whether the wait was worth it, I will say yes, but with a caveat. The soup was undoubtedly comforting and well-executed, but I will be more inclined to buy it again if there isn’t too long a queue. It’s the kind of bowl you crave on a rainy day or when you're in need of something soothing, just better enjoyed without the 45-minute wait.

Rating: 3.25 / 5

Jin Hua Fish Head Bee Hoon
Location:  Old Airport Road Food Centre, 51 Old Airport Rd, #01-120, Singapore 390051

Kin Kao Mai Thai Restaurant Sembawang

“Kin Kao Mai?”, a familiar Thai phrase meaning “Have you eaten yet?”  is more than just a question. It’s a warm invitation rooted in Thai culture, one that I experienced firsthand during my visit to Kin Kao Mai Thai Bistro at their Sembawang Yacht Club branch. 

Kin Kao Mai Thai Bistro

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Johor Strait bordering Malaysia, the evening offered more than just authentic Thai cuisine. 

From the open dining area, the sunset skyline painted the horizon with breathtaking colours, making the meal even more memorable.

View from Kin Kao Mai Thai Bistro

While waiting for our dishes, nothing beat a chilled glass of lemongrass drink in hand. Light, fragrant, and subtly sweet, it was the perfect refresher to cool down from the lingering heat of the afternoon sun.

Lemongrass Drink - $4.80

The first dish to arrive was the glass noodles with seafood, a savory, flavor-packed plate that immediately caught our attention. The noodles were springy and well-seasoned, tossed with plump prawns, squid, and vegetables. What stood out were the charming star-shaped carrot cuts, adding a playful touch to the presentation. The vibrant colors made the dish as visually enticing as it was delicious. Every bite was a delightful mix of textures and umami, truly satisfying.

Fried Glass Noodles with Seafood - $14

Next came the Seafood Tom Yum Soup served in a less spicy version, yet no less flavorful. The broth leaned toward the sweeter side, striking a comforting balance between tangy and aromatic. It was incredibly addictive, especially with the generous portion of plump, succulent prawns that soaked up all the zesty goodness. Each spoonful warmed the soul without overwhelming the palate, making it perfect for those who enjoy tom yum with a gentler kick.

Seafood Tom Yum - $15

We also had the Breaded Thai Fish Cakes, a plate of four golden, crispy pieces that were just the right size for sharing. Each bite revealed a springy, flavorful interior, rich with herbs and spices. Dipping them into the accompanying sweet plum sauce added a lovely contrast of sweet and savoury, making the experience totally indulgent. Simple, satisfying, and undeniably tasty.

Thai Fish Cakes - $12

The Deep-Fried Chicken Wings with Thai Herbs were a hit as well. Crispy on the outside and juicy within, they were infused with the aromatic depth of Thai herbs that added an extra layer of flavor. Each wing was satisfying and well-seasoned , a great finger food that paired perfectly with the rest of the meal.

Deep-Fried Chicken Wings with Thai Herbs - $10

The Crackling Pork Knuckle was another standout , perfectly deep-fried to a golden brown with a shatteringly crisp skin that lived up to its name. Hearty and bold, it was a great addition to our spread and ideal for sharing.

Crackling Pork Knuckle - $30

The Deep-Fried Sea Bass with Sweet Chilli Sauce was thoughtfully prepared, the fish was already portioned into battered, bite-sized chunks, making it incredibly easy to enjoy without the hassle of bones. The sweet chilli sauce was mild and complemented the crisp, golden exterior without overpowering the delicate flavour of the fish. It was a well-executed dish that balanced convenience with taste.

Deep-Fried Sea Bass with Sweet Chilli Sauce - $35

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll by the water and stumbled upon a quirky surprise, a tree adorned with a pair of oversized rolling eyes. Its playful look made it instantly Instagram-worthy, standing cheerfully against the scenic straits and twilight sky. It was the perfect light-hearted end to an already delightful evening at Kin Kao Mai Thai Bistro.

Playful Tree

Kin Kao Mai Thai Restaurant Sembawang
Location: Sembawang Yatch Club, 43 Admiralty Rd West, #02-01 Singapore 759962

Ah Hui Seafood White Bee Hoon

After making a few rounds around Bukit Timah Interim Hawker Centre, I finally decided on the Hor Fun from Ah Hui Seafood White Bee Hoon, I couldn't resist after seeing the table next to me tucking into a plate that looked incredibly tempting.

Ah Hui Seafood White Bee Hoon

I went with the smallest portion and was pleasantly surprised by the presence of wok hei that coveted smoky aroma in the Hor Fun. The dish was generously coated in a savoury, semi-starchy eggy sauce that clung to every strand of noodle. The ingredients were kept simple but satisfying: fresh fish slices, prawns, tender meat, and a good mix of vegetables rounded it out nicely.

Mixed Hor Fun 杂锦河粉 - $5.50

While it may not be something to shout about, it still served as a comforting and decent meal to fill the stomach especially satisfying on a casual day at the hawker centre.

Yummy

Rating: 3 / 5

Ah Hui Seafood White Bee Hoon
Location: Bukit Timah Wet Market & Food Centre (Interim), 2A Jln Seh Chuan, #01-040, Singapore 599213