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

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