Ah, yes. Chinese New Year—the time where tossing grated carrots and radish into the air while shouting auspicious phrases (that sometimes feel just shy of expletives) is only rivalled by the act of gathering with loved ones around a roundtable, bound together by the dizzying charm of a lazy susan. For those looking to experience this (and then some), here's an intimate list of restaurants we'd actually bring our families to this CNY.
Madame Fan celebrates Chinese New Year with a festive menu that retains its Cantonese roots while embracing the artistry of modern culinary. Traditional favourites anchor the menu: Halibut Yu Sheng, abundant Poon Choi, Premium Bird’s Nest in Superior Broth with Crab Meat and Crab Roe, Steamed Red Grouper perfumed with Preserved Black Bean and Chilli, and Pipa Prawn bathed in Chicken Broth.
While some dishes remain reassured in their essence, others emerge transformed through subtle and contemporary touches. Take the Cantonese-style Kampong Chicken that’s elevated by crunchy ribbons of parma ham. But it’s the intersection between the silky, subtle flavours of chicken and the ham’s rich umami depths that intrigue. The Steamed Flower Crab with egg white is aromatised by Chinese Yellow Wine and spring onions to create a wonderfully sweet and savoury bite that intensifies with every chew. And then there’s the Caviar Fried Rice with Conpoy, Crab Meat, and Egg White—a dish that tastes just as indulgent as it sounds.
Price: From SGD198 per pax
When: Until 16 February
Where: The NCO Club, 32 Beach Road, Singapore 189764
With over two decades of serving up authentic Shanghainese cuisine under their belt, Grand Shanghai has earned its place as a trusted institution among Singapore's traditionalists. Grand Shanghai sets a high standard with its Yu Sheng, featuring salmon, abalone, fried silverfish, and a medley of auspicious “huat” ingredients. The result? One of the most memorable Yu Shengs we’ve had. Is using a Chinese restaurant’s Yu Sheng as a barometer of its overall quality a thing? Maybe it should be, because this dish set a high standard for the courses ahead, which (spoiler alert) it upheld.
The Double-Boiled Abalone Soup was deeply satisfying, with a rich, umami-laden broth that avoided being overpowered by Chinese herbs. The Steamed Cod Fish with bamboo shoots was another standout, its creamy flesh perfectly balanced by the savoury soy sauce. Following this, the Crispy Roasted Chicken emerges fragrant with garlic, its skin well-roasted and flesh succulent. Other dishes include the Braised 6-Head Abalone with fish maw, dried oysters, and brown sauce; Stir-Fried Glutinous Rice; Pan-Fried Nian Gao; and the comforting Double-Boiled Peach Gum with red dates and lotus seeds.
Price: From SGD178 per pax
When: Until 12 February
Where: Level 1 King's Centre, Singapore 169662
Not that we're keeping track, but this little hole in the wall has been consistently paying homage to the lunar new year over the years. This year's pop-up is no different with time-tested favourites like the 算盤子 (Abacus Seeds); housemade yam gnocchi with Hokkaido baby scallops that's glazed and dusted. Also, fresh Year of the Snake additions like the 蛇窩 (Snake’s Nest); tiger prawn and lotus root balls dressed in mala mascarpone and fruit.
Cocktails are where you'll find the CNY goodies . From pineapple tart-inspired negroni 財源滾滾 (Rolling in Prosperity) and kueh bangkit rendition of clarified and foamy coconut and bourbon mix 八方來財 (Wealth All Around); to the occasion quintessential bak kwa sour 諸事順利 (Smooth Sailing Ahead).
Price: From SGD28
When: Until 8 Feburary
Where: 6 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069787
For an unconventional Yusheng, the longstanding Japanese omakase/steakhouse does a beefy special on tradition with their Signature Gyu Sheng. Good for up to five guests, the slices of marbled Toriyama Umami Wagyu takes centerstage amidst ikura, chuka kurage, wakame and more. The dish is available for dine-in only and with a pre-order of two days.
Price: From SGD68
When: Until 5 Feburary
Where: Camden Medical Centre #01-01/02, Singapore 248649
If you're looking for an array of textures for your goodies, Chatterbox (yes, that SGD25 Chicken Rice place) has added the savoury cripsy Chicken Biscuits to complement their buttery Pineapple Balls and gooey Molten Chocolate Cookies. Needless to say, perfect for gifting too.
