GyoGyo Japanese Grilled Fish & Sukiyaki - Plaza Singapura

Looking for Halal Japanese comfort food? Head to GyoGyo for grilled fish, hearty Japanese curry, and wholesome meals that warm both heart and soul.

GyoGyo Japanese Grilled Fish & Sukiyaki at Plaza Singapura

We visited their Plaza Singapura outlet, conveniently located on the 6th floor, for a comforting Japanese meal that truly satisfied our cravings.

Enviroment 

Along with the Japanese food, we had their handcrafted drinks, refreshing and well-balanced, perfect to wash down the hearty and flavourful meal.

Ice Yakult Cucumber Mix & Ice Lychee Mixed Berries

The Chicken Karaage Curry Udon was a satisfying bowl of comfort, generously portioned and packed with flavour. The thick, rich Japanese curry clung beautifully to the chewy udon noodles, while the golden-fried karaage pieces were crispy on the outside and juicy within.

Chicken Karaage Curry Udon

Each bite offered a hearty balance of textures, making it a fulfilling and warming dish that truly hit the spot.

Beef Sukiyaki (Free Flow Rice)

Chicken Karaage

The Beef Hamburg Curry Rice was hearty and satisfying, a comforting dish where melted cheese crowned the juicy beef patty, while a soft egg blanketed the rice beneath. Surrounded by rich, flavourful Japanese curry, every bite was savoury and indulgent, making it a wholesome meal worth savouring.

Beef Hamburg Curry Rice

The Unagi Roll was beautifully presented, topped with green onions and a sprinkle of roasted sesame seeds for an appetizing finish.

Unagi Roll

A long slice of tender unagi draped elegantly over the neatly cut rolls, each encasing egg, crab stick, and refreshing cucumber. 

Yummy

Such a combination offers a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and flavour in every bite.

Cross-Section of the Unagi ROll

Simply loved the style and execution of the Tempura Moriawase, a delightful mix of prawns, lady’s finger, mushroom, brinjal, and sweet potato, all lightly battered and deep-fried to golden perfection. The tempura wasn’t greasy at all, and the clear dipping sauce complemented each crisp bite beautifully.

Tempura Moriawase

The Kakiage with Truffle Kabayaki Sauce was a delightful surprise, a tower of mixed vegetable tempura, light and crisp, drizzled generously with aromatic truffle kabayaki sauce. The sauce added a rich umami depth that perfectly complemented the crunchy texture, making it both indulgent and satisfying.

Kakiage with Truffle Kabayaki Sauce

Gyo Gyo is a great spot for gatherings, especially when cravings for comforting Halal Japanese food strike. With hearty dishes like curry udon, grilled fish, and sushi rolls, it’s perfect for sharing a satisfying meal with friends and family in a cosy setting.

Our Meal

GyoGyo Japanese Grilled Fish & Sukiyaki - Plaza Singapura
Location: Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Rd, #06-08/09/10, Singapore 238839

Lao Ba Treasure Dessert

Kicking off my meal with a sweet ending, I found myself at Lao Ba Treasure Dessert despite being completely stuffed from lunch. Perhaps it was the scorching heat  or the irresistible sight of bowls after bowls of chilled metal desserts arriving at nearby tables that finally convinced me to order one for myself.

Lao Ba Treasure Dessert

Manning the stall single-handedly, the lady behind Lao Ba Treasure Dessert impressively handles everything, from taking orders to preparing desserts and collecting payment. The menu offers various grass jelly combinations such as Thai Milk Tea, Mango Syrup, or Nata de Coco, alongside classics with soy milk and attap seeds. For those craving something warm, options like Barley Ginkgo Nut Beancurd, Red & White Bean Soup with Coconut Milk, and Green Bean Soup are also available.

Menu

We went for the basic version of their Grass Jelly, also known as the Original. Served in a traditional metal bowl filled with mini ice cubes and smooth, slippery grass jelly, it stood out from the typical hawker versions. The texture was silkier, and the sweetness level was just right, leaning slightly on the bitter side rather than overwhelmingly sweet, making it a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Grass Jelly Original - $2

I couldn’t decide between Longan or Attap Seeds, so I went for both. A fuss-free choice that turned out perfect. Their natural sweetness beautifully balanced the slight bitterness of the silky, glossy grass jelly, creating a refreshing and satisfying dessert harmony.

Grass Jelly with 2 Toppings - $3

If you enjoy grass jelly, there’s no doubt you’ll like this. And if you’re looking to beat the heat on a scorching day, this chilled dessert is just perfect.

Lao Ba Treasure Dessert
Location: Pasir Panjang Food Centre, 121 Pasir Panjang Rd, #01-39, Singapore 118543

Tonkatsu ENbiton

 Visiting Tonkatsu ENbiton’s outlet at Suntec! They’re known for sourcing premium pork from renowned farms in Japan and beyond, serving an authentic tonkatsu experience worth savouring. 

“ENBiton” carries a lovely meaning, “EN” represents a gathering place, while “Biton” means beautiful perfectly capturing the warm, soulful spirit of their restaurant.

Tonkatsu ENbiton in Suntec City

For those ordering their Katsu Set, you’ll enjoy free flow of shredded cabbage, fragrant Nanatsuboshi rice from Hokkaido, and hearty Tonjiru (pork miso soup).

Enjoy Free Flow

They also offer takeaway specials from $7.90. If you’re craving a hearty bento on the go, simply approach their friendly staff to order and make payment.

Takeaway Counter

We paired our meal with refreshing Mango Calpis Soda and a zesty Virgin Mojito, both adding a bright, fruity touch to the hearty katsu feast.

Mango Calpis Soda & Virgin Mojito - $7 Each

Hokkaido Pork Japanese Curry Stew, served over fluffy Japanese white rice and wrapped in a soft omelette. Comes with free-flow Tonjiru (pork miso soup), pickles, and a mix of cabbage & arugula for a balanced meal.

Hokkaido Pork Nikomi Curry Omurice - $18

Unagi & Katsu Moriawase Gozen is a hearty combo featuring grilled unagi, half portions of Hokkaido pork loin & pork fillet katsu, and prawn katsu. Served with mentaiko cold tofu, daigaku imo (candied sweet potatoes), cherry tomato tsuke, and edamame. Comes with free-flow rice, Tonjiru (pork miso soup), pickles, and a cabbage–arugula mix.

Unagi & Katsu Moriawase Gozen - $27

Hokkaido Menchi Cheese Katsu Ramen & Donburi Set consists of half-portion minced Hokkaido pork katsu with melted cheddar cheese, paired with half-portion tonkotsu ramen, a mini Hokkaido pork belly chashu don, cabbage & arugula, and pickles, a satisfying duo of comfort and flavour.

Hokkaido Menchi Cheese Katsu Ramen & Donburi Set - $2190

Hokkaido pork katsu with melted cheddar cheese

Overall, dining at Tonkatsu ENbiton was a delightful experience. The quality of their pork and attention to detail truly stood out, offering an authentic taste of Japan. With generous free-flow sides and hearty set options, it’s a comforting spot for anyone craving a satisfying katsu meal.

Tonkatsu ENbiton
Location: Suntec City, 3 Temasek Blvd, #B1-170 / 171, Singapore 038983
Website

Empire Chinese Cuisine (formerly Phoenix Garden) 帝國軒

If you remember Phoenix Garden at Parkway Parade, it’s now Empire Chinese Cuisine. Established in 2020, this fine dining spot showcases exquisite Cantonese and Teochew dishes crafted by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants, delivering refined flavours and top-notch culinary artistry.

Empire Chinese Cuisine

Our first dish, Wok-fried Beef Cubes with Wholegrain Yellow Mustard Sauce, was beautifully plated with shredded carrots and cabbage. Each beef cube was evenly coated with just the right amount of mustard sauce, flavourful without overpowering, offering a mild kick of spice that complemented the tender beef perfectly.

Wok-fried Beef Cubes with Wholegrain Yellow Mustard Sauce 芥末籽酱爆牛肉粒 - $24.00

The Shark’s Cartilage Soup with Fresh Fishmaw required a 15-minute wait but was worth every second. Smooth, rich, and slightly gluey in texture, it was deeply satisfying and polished off the fastest among all the dishes a true crowd favourite at our table.

Shark‘s Cartilage Soup with Fresh Fishmaw 鲨鱼软骨花胶汤 - $19

We also had the Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Morel Mushrooms, which similarly required a 15-minute wait. The broth was nourishing and flavourful, with tender chicken pieces and earthy morel mushrooms enhancing its depth, a comforting classic done right.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Morel Mushrooms 羊肚菌炖鸡汤 - $11.80

Wok-fried Prawns with Egg White and Black Truffle Oil was a beautifully executed dish that reminded me of one we used to enjoy at Prima Tower. The truffle aroma paired harmoniously with the subtle sweetness of the egg white and the natural seafood sweetness from the prawns.

Wok-fried Prawns with Egg White and Black Truffle Oil 黑松露油蛋白炒虾球 - $26.00

The presentation was elevated with fine cuts of kailan stalks, adding a refreshing touch of green to the dish.

Wok-Fried Prawn

Homemade Spinach Tofu with Wild Mushrooms earned our unanimous nods of approval. The tofu was silky smooth, pairing beautifully with the earthy wild mushrooms and vibrant vegetables. 

Homemade Spinach Tofu with Wild Mushrooms 野菌扒菠菜豆腐 - $19.00

What a simple yet delightful combination done right.

Yummy!

Not many places serve Fried Bitter Gourd Strips with Salted Egg Yolk, so this was an interesting find. The taste was a pleasant blend of savoury and crisp bitterness, though the presentation was rather plain and could use a touch of refinement.

Fried Bitter Gourd Strips with Salted Egg Yolk Puree 咸蛋黄炸凉瓜条 - $10.00

For the carbs, we had the Stewed Mee Pok Noodles with Eggplant in XO Chilli Sauce. The mee pok was noticeably narrower than the usual type and was topped with slices of eggplant that we almost mistook for pork belly. The accompanying sauce was savoury and comforting, evoking a nostalgic flavour reminiscent of old-school canteen days.

Stewed Mee Pok Noodles with Eggplant in XO Chilli Sauce XO 酱茄子焖面卜 - $22

A comforting meal at Empire Chinese Cuisine, perfect for anyone craving refined yet homely Chinese flavours done with finesse and heart.

Empire Chinese Cuisine (formerly Phoenix Garden) 帝國軒
Location: Parkway Parade, 80 Marine Parade Road, #02-13/13A, Singapore 449269
Website

Kunthaville

 Sri Lankan Cuisine in Singapore? Yes! Kunthaville in Little India brings the vibrant taste of Ceylon with creative twists on Singaporean favourites and Indian classics.

View From the Restaurant

The interior exudes a resort-like charm, simple, laid-back, and relaxing. With tropical touches and warm tones, it sets the mood perfectly for a cozy meal.

Interior

For starters, we were served vegetable cutlets, beetroot and jackfruit. The Jackfruit Cutlet, Sri Lanka’s favourite plant-based “mock meat,” was cooked with potato and spices, wrapped in a crepe, then crumbed and fried till golden and crispy. 

Beetroot & Jackfruit Cutlet 

The Beetroot Cutlet was crispy on the outside and tender inside, with a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and a hint of chilli. Between the two, the beetroot cutlet stood out with its distinctive sweetness and well-balanced flavours.

Beetroot Cutlet

They also offered Appam, a Sri Lankan favourite made from a fermented batter of rice and coconut milk, cooked in a small wok-shaped pan. It had a soft, spongy centre with thin, crispy edges, much like a bowl-shaped pancake. 

Appam

You can even build your own Appam with a variety of savoury or sweet toppings available. Definitely worth checking out their menu for the options!

Appam

The Signature Curry Leaf Coconut Rice plate was a delightful medley.  fluffy Sri Lankan samba rice paired with spicy Dry Jackfruit Curry, sautéed green beans, tangy raw mango sambal, cooling cucumber sambal, and creamy lentils. A beautiful harmony of spice, texture, and comfort in every bite.

Signature Curry Leaf Coconut Rice accompanied by spicy matakkalppu palakai peratal

Rice was paired with slow-cooked eggplant simmered in jaggery and aromatic spices, resulting in a uniquely sweet and tangy brinjal curry.

Briyani and Brinjal Sweet & Sour Pirratal - $14

We had Pairs Rose, a romantic blend of silky golden tips infused with fragrant rose petals, blue cornflowers, and a hint of strawberry. Fresh, floral, and lightly fruity with a smooth finish.

Paris Rose

For dessert, we had Coconut & Vanilla Pudding, a silky-smooth treat made with coconut cream and vanilla, served chilled. It leaned a little on the sweeter side for us.

Coconut & Vanilla Pudding - $8

We also had Ceylon Falooda, a refreshing dessert featuring silky sago pearls and vibrant jellies, served in rich coconut cream for a sweet and cooling treat.

Ceylon Falooda - $12

Overall, the meal was a delightful balance of comforting flavors and refreshing treats. From the sweet and tangy brinjal curry to the floral tea and creamy desserts, each dish offered its own charm, rounding off the experience on a satisfying and memorable note.

Kunthaville
Location: 18 Veerasamy Rd, Level 1, Singapore 207326
Website

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