Month: September 2023

Food

Meet the hawker chefs bringing 5-star food to the heartlands

Post author By Dennis
Post date September 19, 2023
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Eightisfy Western serves a host of mouth-watering dishes cooked by an ex-Chicheti chef. Photo Eightisfy Western Facebook Page

Hawker chefs: Their culinary ventures are our gain, as they add even more variety to Singapore’s unique culinary scene.

TEXT: MORGAN AWYONG

PHOTOS: EIGHTISFY WESTERN FACEBOOK PAGE, CHEF LEUNG FACEBOOK PAGE, CAT IN THE HAT INSTAGRAM, A NOODLE STORY FACEBOOK PAGE, MEAT 4 MEAT INSTAGRAM, MAT WESTERN FACEBOOK PAGE

Hawker culture has long been at the heart of Singapore’s culinary culture. It’s no wonder that it became the country’s first element on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

From renegade street stalls in the 1800s to the first hawker centres – Chomp Chomp Food Centre, Block 51 Old Airport Road and Tiong Bahru Market – in the 1970s, this continues to evolve today.

An increasing number of chefs have been setting up stalls in hawker centres, perhaps inspired by the “unpretentious good food” ethos. From the ex-Cicheti chef who started a western stall at Bukit Merah selling S$7.80 Spaghetti Carbonara, to Raffles Hotel’s former dim sum head chef turned chee cheong fun hawker, here are our top finds for standout meals that won’t leave a hole in your pocket.

EIGHTISFY WESTERN

3752 Bukit Merah Central, Singapore, Singapore

S$7.80 for a plate of Spaghetti Carbonara may seem pricey for hawker fare, but when it’s cooked by an ex-Chicheti chef, you know you’re in for something special.

Located at Maddox Canteen in Bukit Merah Central, Eightisfy Western is headed by Chef CK, who was in charge of pastas at the famous trattoria before coming out to serve his local western fare. Expect classics like Chicken Chop, Grilled Fish and Burgers, all featuring his own marinade and crowd pleasers like the crunchy, battered Spam Fries. But one must try the pasta of course – picking from savoury offerings of Bacon Carbonara, Mushroom Aglio Olio to Tomato Ragu to satisfy any craving.

CHEF LEUNG’S AUTHENTIC HAND-MILLED RICE NOODLE ROLLS

Blk 335 Smith Street #02-096, Singapore, Singapore

Chef Leung Tze Cham worked for 30 years as a dim sum master at the illustrious kitchens of Raffles Hotel, before leaving for China to start his prawn farm. After the pandemic affected his business, he returned to Singapore and opened his own Chee Cheong Fun hawker stall at Chinatown Complex.

His menu features handmade rice noodle rolls that are soft and light, wrapping premium ingredients selected by the chef. He achieves the texture with house-milled rice batter that takes three hours to make. He then tops this with his addictive peanut and sesame sauce.

CAT IN THE HAT

505 Beach Road #01-106 (Army market)

Nothing beats having established chefs brightening up our hawker centres with their pretty bakes. Case in point: Former hotel pastry chef Ellis Ng, who opened Cat in The Hat at Golden Mile Food Centre in March this year.

Ng offers other dainty French pastries such as Caneles, Financiers and Tarts on her menu, all freshly-baked daily. There are local twists to be found with their Lychee Rose (Bandung) tart and Ovaltine Chocolate tart. The best part? With Madeleines starting at S$1.50 and lemon meringue tarts at S$3, these sweet indulgences won’t break the bank.

A NOODLE STORY

1 Wallich St, Singapore #B2-32, Singapore, Singapore

A ramen stall that’s been listed on the Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2016? They’re definitely doing something right. Maybe it’s because chefs Gwern Khoo and Ben Tham have seen the kitchens of Michelin-starred restaurants such as Waku Ghin, Saint Pierre and Iggy’s, and cracked the code on what makes good dishes remarkable.

Expect their Singapore-Style Ramen to be a flavour bomb with servings of juicy Shrimp Wantons, braised Pork Belly Char Siew, and crunchy Ngoh Hiang (spiced meat roll). Their new Smoky Char Siew Wanton Noodle and Nyonya Curry Chicken Noodles look set to be winners too.

MEET 4 MEAT

228 East Coast Road, Singapore 428925

71 Ubi Crescent, Singapore 408571

Fancy a Beef Wellington served in a coffee shop? Then you probably appreciate chef Jimmy Teo’s aim to bring items usually found in high-priced restaurants to the masses.

The co-founder of Meet 4 Meat (with chef Gerald Lau), he brings over 20 years of experience working in professional kitchens like his stint as chef of Wooloomooloo Steakhouse at Swissotel. There are two outlets located along East Coast Road and Ubi Crescent. Each of his menu offerings is thoughtfully cooked with a premium experience in mind. Items like the Marinated New Zealand Lamb Cutlets are done with his secret sauce and pasta dishes are all handmade.

MAT WESTERN (HALAL)

122 Bedok North St 2, Singapore, Singapore

This halal stall is stirring up fans with their hefty pizzas. Frenchman Umar Fabrice, who’s a Muslim convert, and Singaporean Hidir Kasim opened Mat Western after years in professional kitchens, so one can expect a keen eye and extra flair when ordering from the stall.

The pizzas there, for example, use doppio zero flour – the finest milled variety, and feature freshly-made dough everyday. On top of traditional Italian classics, one can also enjoy options with Asian ingredients for a satisfying familiar taste. Lemak Chicken Pizza and Tom Yam Pepperoni Pizza? We’re sold.

YUAN LANG SOY SAUCE CHICKEN MASTER

335 Smith Street #02-215 Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre

Located in Chinatown Complex Food Centre, this chicken rice stall is helmed by Hong Kong-born chef Wong Keung. Using kampung chicken for a firmer bite, the poultry is poached in a savoury five-hour broth made of dried scallops and octopus.

The result? Generous chicken pieces that feature a bright buttery-yellow skin, slippery with juice yet with a satisfying chew. The soy sauce chicken variety features a similar texture, but a less powerful flavour than the specialty-broth variety. If you’re looking to try a new spin of a national classic, you won’t be disappointed here.

Without a doubt, it’s to Singapore’s benefit that these chefs have joined the hawker fraternity. They not only expand the meaning of what it means to be a hawker, but also open up interest in those wanting to enter the food and beverage industry. Hopefully, this new breed of entrepreneurs will inspire a new generation of hawkers and uphold the legacy of affordable, delicious food for a long time to come.

HOMETEAMNS HAWKER HAVENS

If you’re craving good hawker fare after visiting a HomeTeamNS clubhouse, you’re in luck. Several hawker centres are just a short drive away from HomeTeamNS clubhouses:

HomeTeamNS Khatib: Chong Pang Market & Food Centre (7 min drive), Yishun Park Hawker Centre (6 min drive)

HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier: Balestier Market (4 min drive), Whampoa Food Centre (5 min drive)

HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok: Choa Chu Kang Market & Food Centre (7 min drive)

HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir: Bedok Reservoir Food Centre (4 min drive), Bedok 538 Market and Food Centre (5 min drive)

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Close Up

Meet the former gymnast who’s also been trained to save lives

Post author By Dennis
Post date September 14, 2023
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Apart from helping to save lives with the SCDF, SGT1 Jim Pon is a former gymnast who has represented Singapore in international competitions.

SGT1 Jim Pon’s contributions to Singapore go way beyond his service with the Singapore Civil Defence Force and National Day Parade.

TEXT: KEENAN PEREIRA

PHOTOS: SGT1 JIM PON

SGT1 Jim Pon, 24, fondly recalls his childhood days, when his parents sold satay at the renowned Newton Food Centre. He would always cherish the moments spent running through the intricate pathways between the stalls.

“From savouring diverse dishes to making friends, those days will forever be etched in my memory. Our family still dines occasionally with the other stallowners,” Jim shared.

Such experiences instilled in him a love for Singapore’s multicultural heritage. “It was heartwarming to witness different communities coming together, sharing their food and culture in a friendly setting.” With this sentiment in mind, Jim is always full of anticipation whenever National Day is around the corner.

PREPARING FOR ANY EMERGENCY

The National Day Parade (NDP) 2023 was Jim’s final one as a Full-time National Serviceman (NSF) with the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). Although he was not part of SCDF’s marching contingent during the parade, Jim played an important role during Exercise BOCA, a multi-agency exercise that prepares first responders for a possible bomb or chemical attack at the NDP venue.

As a fire and rescue specialist (FRS), Jim was responsible for leading his crew in the rescue of victims, so that they could be decontaminated and receive prompt medical attention. Jim and his crew had to wear Chemical Agent (CA) suits, to protect themselves in the event of a chemical releasee.

Reflecting on the experience, Jim said, “Our duty underscores the importance of readiness for unforeseen situations”. After the successful completion of Exercise BOCA, Jim and his crew were also involved in the contingency standby for the NDP, staying vigilant for potential incidents until the end of the parade.

SHIFTING INTO HIGH GEAR

After their NDP contingency standby, Jim and his colleagues at Ang Mo Kio Fire Station remained on duty until 8am the subsequent day. “Our shifts span 24 hours,” he clarifies. “It is important to pace ourselves, yet remain alert and ready throughout the shift.”

Jim shared how a seemingly peaceful and quiet shift could turn out to be eventful. He was recently involved in putting out a vehicular fire at Yishun Dam. “A car was engulfed in flames. Fortunately, the driver managed to escape the car early, so we could focus on the firefighting and minimise traffic disruptions.”

Apart from his duties in the Life Saving Force, Jim is also an accomplished gymnast who has represented Singapore in numerous global events. “It’s an honour to be able to fly the Singapore flag high,” he shares. While he has stepped back from professional gymnastics, he aspires to mentor the sport’s future champions. “I would really like to contribute more to the future of Singapore’s sporting scene.”

SINGAPORE SPECIAL

Jim on his Lion City favourites:

Favourite place: “City Square Mall, which is my go-to for anything from food to daily essentials.”

Favourite local TV show: “Kin. It brought my family closer as we watched it together.”

Favourite Singaporean trait: “Our ability to pursue our dreams in a safe and secure environment.”

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App, and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Close Up Spotlight

This teacher became a HomeTeamNS volunteer — and got schooled!

Post author By Ben
Post date September 8, 2023
No Comments on This teacher became a HomeTeamNS volunteer — and got schooled!

HomeTeamNS volunteer Bryan Chao is the Vice Chairperson of HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir's Executive Committee.

Working on the development of the HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir clubhouse proved to be a lesson in patience and humility for LTC (NS) Bryan Chao.

TEXT: BENEDICT THAM

PHOTOS: BRYAN CHAO, HOMETEAMNS

For the past 20 years, LTC (NS) Bryan Chao has taught Physical Education at East Spring Primary School. As someone who believes that “academic excellence isn’t the only thing that matters,” he encourages his students to develop their character and values. To inculcate independence, for instance, he advises the children: “In life, there are two groups of people — those who work out their own problems and experience personal growth in the process, and the ones who always go to people with questions, expecting them to solve their issues. Don’t live like the latter!”

While he is accustomed to dispensing such wisdom to his young charges, the 43-year-old educator has also been on the receiving end of life lessons, in his role as a HomeTeamNS volunteer. Having served his National Service (NS) as a fire officer at the Singapore Civil Defence Force, Bryan decided to “contribute more to the nation” by joining the HomeTeamNS East Development Committee in late 2021. His first task, which was helping to manage the design and construction of HomeTeamNS’ newest clubhouse, HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir, proved challenging to the teacher who usually has the answers.

PATIENCE GOES A LONG WAY

Like many other projects that faced COVID-19 pandemic related restrictions, the construction of the HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir clubhouse was fraught with setbacks and delays. Seeing it to completion was an uphill slog, but Bryan notes that his fellow committee members demonstrated remarkable forbearance and composure under fire. This was particularly eye-opening for the HomeTeamNS volunteer, who by his own admission tends to be short on patience.

He credits his Development Committee’s Co-Chairman, SUPT (NS) Jim Tan, for helping the team overcome numerous obstacles that stood in the way of the clubhouse’s launch. He shares that the leader employed charisma and decisiveness to foster cohesive teamwork among the committee, as well as liaise with various partners involved in the clubhouse’s development and construction.

“Jim was able to make the tough decisions with such patience and humility that everyone was convinced to take his lead,” Bryan recalls. We thus managed to pull through and make the Bedok Reservoir Clubhouse a reality.”

Bryan cites patience, humility and empathy as important virtues, especially for volunteers such as himself, as they interact with the many people they serve. “People tend to respond better when we show that we’re listening and care for them,” he adds.

Tensions can run high when you’re required to engage with various stakeholders. Thankfully, the married man can also draw on his NS experience with the Home Team to navigate challenging situations with grace. In that respect, he cites his fellow HomeTeamNS volunteer, LTC (NS) Muhammad Faizal Bin Abdul Kadir, Commander for the 22 Public Shelter Resilience Unit, as a positive influence. Recounting an incident whereby a dissatisfied Home Team NSman had raised a concern due to administrative issues during his reservist call-up, he shares that Faizal managed to resolve the problem by keeping his cool, and calmly convincing the affected party that he would help. “Despite his high rank and level of experience, Faizal does not throw his weight around to get things done, which is an attribute I admire immensely,” he says, in reference to his mentor’s hands-on approach.

And how does he personally deal with similar difficult encounters as a HomeTeamNS volunteer? Well, a good dose of humour can come in handy, says Bryan. “From time to time, we casually share our experiences with one another within the committee. Such exchanges help us to balance our emotions, have a good laugh together, and most importantly, move on!”.

A CONTINUOUS LEARNING JOURNEY

Despite some frustrating moments that can accompany the role, Bryan says that being a HomeTeamNS volunteer has made his life fuller. “Working behind the scenes in the Development Committee, I’ve learnt that it takes a complex operation to get things up and running like clockwork. Individually, we can put in more effort to make the gears tick more smoothly,” he explains.

Motivated to continue making a positive difference in the organisation, Bryan has stepped up to the plate as Vice Chairperson of Bedok Reservoir HomeTeamNS’ Executive Committee, where he proudly leads a group of like-minded volunteers. And he hasn’t forgotten the values of patience, humility and altruism he has developed over the years and — in turn — hopes to impart to the fellow volunteers under his wing. “Being privileged to be placed in a position of authority, I want to use the opportunity to serve others and help create a better environment for everyone at HomeTeamNS,” he concludes.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the app settings.

Tags HomeTeamNS volunteer, profile, life lessons, inside HomeTeamNS

Club Buzz

HomeTeamNS Family Day takes flight at Bird Paradise

Post author By Dennis
Post date September 8, 2023
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HomeTeamNS' Family Day event at Bird Paradise was its first Family Day celebration since the pandemic.

The first such celebration since the Covid-19 pandemic proved to be a fun day out for everyone.

TEXT: AUDRINA GAN

PHOTOS: HOMETEAMNS

Family Day returned in a big way for HomeTeamNS members on 29 July at Bird Paradise. The event was HomeTeamNS’ first Family Day celebration since the pandemic – the previous event was held at Universal Studios Singapore in 2019.

About 2,000 HomeTeamNS members and their families gathered at the open-air amphitheatre to learn about three new partnerships, and enjoyed a splendid show. Thereafter, the event saw close to 5,000 members exploring the lush greenery and trails, and admired breathtaking hornbills, spoonbills and other exotic birds.

NEW PARTNERS, MORE BENEFITS

Graced by Guest-of-Honour Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, and HomeTeamNS President, he introduced attendees to three new strategic partners — Singlife, Sgdrivers and SHEIN — to the HomeTeamNS membership programme.

Singlife

Under the new Singlife partnership, all new and existing HomeTeamNS Principal members will receive a complimentary one-year travel or home insurance and a complimentary one-year HomeTeamNS membership when they opt in for the insurance coverage. Since August 2018, eligible HomeTeamNS Ordinary members have received complimentary personal accident insurance coverage of up to S$30,000.

Sgdrivers

HomeTeamNS has also partnered with Sgdrivers under the new HomeTeamNS Driver’s Shield Programme. At S$23 a year, the Driver Shield’s programme includes a hotline for 24/7 emergency roadside assistance, fuel discounts of up to 23 per cent and exclusive vouchers worth up to S$400.

SHEIN

Fashion and lifestyle e-retailer SHEIN, was also added to HomeTeamNS’ mix of partners. Members can enjoy 18 per cent off purchases on SHEIN’s platform year-round and gain priority queue access to their upcoming pop-ups.

Ms Agnes Eu, Chief Executive of HomeTeamNS, hopes these new benefits help offer members peace of mind at home and abroad. The new strategic partnerships and events like Family Day are part of HomeTeamNS’ efforts to recognise the contributions of HomeTeamNS members and their families. Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal added: “We at HomeTeamNS want to do more to make life better for you, as you serve and protect our homeland. I want to thank your families for their unwavering support and love for you, our NSmen, as you juggle work and your NS duties, and we hope to show appreciation to them.”

CELEBRATING HOMETEAMNS PRIDE

In his speech, Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal also acknowledged that life as an National Serviceman could be fast-paced and challenging. Having met quite a number of members and their families and friends at the clubhouses and at other activities, he said that he was touched by the pride that they have, in being part of the Home Team and the HomeTeamNS family.

“I realised that we have developed that connection not only with you, but with the people around you and your loved ones. This connection not only helps us keep Singapore safe and secure, but we do so like one big family,” he added.

“We at HomeTeamNS want to do more to make life better for you, as you serve and protect our homeland. I want to thank your families for their unwavering support and love for you, our NSmen, as you juggle work and your NS duties, and we hope to show appreciation to them.”

Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, and HomeTeamNS President.

HomeTeamNS Member Louis Seah, who attended the Family Day with his family, said he appreciates the variety of clubhouse facilities that allow him to unwind with his loved ones. The family day outing has also provided the backdrop for members like Mr Muhammad Adzizul to spend quality time with his loved ones. “To me, family time means spending time with my family anywhere and any place, as long as they are having fun,” he added.

FLY BYS OF A DIFFERENT KIND

The day of fun and togetherness for HomeTeamNS members reached its climax with the captivating Predators on Wings show, leaving everyone in awe. As the audience gathered in anticipation, they were treated to spectacular aerial prowess by magnificent creatures like the American Bald Eagle, White-Bellied Sea Eagle, Malay Fish Owl and the impressive Turkey Vulture.

Gasps of amazement filled the air as these majestic birds soared gracefully through the sky, showcasing their raw beauty. The experience was entertaining and educational, as members gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of wildlife conservation and the wonders of nature.

Missed out on our Family Day at Bird Paradise? We got you! We’re having a secret lobang sale of up to 50 per cent off Bird Paradise tickets (U.P up to $48 per pax), while stocks last. To make your purchase, look out for this fantastic promotion on our HomeTeamNS Mobile App. Tickets are valid till 3 February 2024.

Additionally, don’t forget to sign up for your FREE 1-Year Travel or Home Insurance by Singlife, with a complimentary 1-Year HomeTeamNS Membership here. Think of it as our way of saying thank you for your contributions to the nation.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App, and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Food

We tried 10 innovative mooncakes for Mid-autumn Festival 2023

Post author By Ben
Post date September 5, 2023
No Comments on We tried 10 innovative mooncakes for Mid-autumn Festival 2023

Popping Candy Truffle with Dragon Fruit Lotus Paste from Mdm Ling Bakery.

Do their flavours live up to their fancy names? Find out in our reviews of these baked and snowskin delights, assessed according to creativity and quality of presentation, ingredients and flavours.

TEXT: MANDY LIM BEITLER

PHOTOS: W SINGAPORE – SENTOSA COVE; SI CHUAN DOU HUA; CHERRY GARDEN; SHANGRI-LA SINGAPORE; JADE RESTAURANT; XIN CUISINE CHINESE RESTAURANT; PAUL SINGAPORE; MDM LING BAKERY; FORBIDDEN; CROWNE PLAZA CHANGI AIRPORT

It’s a tradition to eat mooncakes during the Mid-autumn Festival, which is celebrated annually on the 15^th day of the eighth lunar month, and falls on 29 September this year. The event sees people attending “moon viewing” (the moon is apparently brightest during this time) parties in lantern-lit gardens, where they sip tea and savour mooncakes. These pastries are shaped like the full moon, to symbolise reunion.

Restaurants and bakeries are getting increasingly creative in their choice of mooncake fillings, which — beyond the traditional lotus paste — may incorporate local twists and premium ingredients such as truffles. To help you narrow it down, we sampled a variety of baked and snowskin mooncakes and classified them according to creativity, quality of ingredients, presentation, and most importantly, taste. Here are our top picks for 2023.

BAKED MOONCAKES

For the health conscious: Bi Luo Chun Tea Lotus Seed Paste from Si Chuan Dou Hua (Halal-certified)

Recognising that Singaporeans are becoming increasingly health-conscious, Si Chuan Dou Hua is offering low-sugar mooncakes this year. Furthermore, your purchase backs a good cause. Besides working with Extraordinary People (a charity that supports individuals with special needs) for the design of the mooncake gift box and fabric bag, the restaurant also hires differently-abled persons to help assemble the boxes. Tea connoisseurs won’t be disappointed by the new Bi Luo Chun Tea Lotus Seed Paste mooncake. The lotus paste is elevated with a generous infusion of the world-famous biluochun green tea from Suzhou, China, which results in a subtle floral finish with a slightly gritty texture.

From $36 for a box of two.

For the discerning: Yam with Black Sesame and Shredded Coconut from Shang Palace

Shangri-La Singapore has been a go-to for generations of mooncake connoisseurs as well as young couples looking to impress their in-laws. As it turns out, it’s not just the hotel’s more traditional mooncakes that boast refined presentation and taste. Take, for example, this new addition to its baked collection, which is presented in an elegant three-tier jewellery box in a choice of three colours. The golden-brown pastry skin makes a great first impression too — it’s delicately thin and distinctly aromatic. Inside, moist yet not gooey yam paste is studded with coarsely-shredded coconut that provides texture and depth of flavour. Finally, a layer of black sesame paste in the centre lends a pleasantly nutty note.

From $84 for four.

For the adventurous: Assam Tea with Lemon, Mung Bean and Raisin from Jade Restaurant

This year, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore presents its Jade Signatures Tea Series baked mooncakes in an elongated red or teal gift box adorned with peony and peacock motifs. There’s also the option to purchase a cannister of TWG Fullerton Grand Tea in matching colours to pair with your mooncakes. The standout in this series of four flavours — which include Tie Guan Yin with Orange and Apricot; Green Tea with Multigrain Brown Sugar and Hongyu Black Tea with Pomelo, Red Date and Pine Nut — is the Assam Tea with Lemon, Mung Bean and Raisin. While its combination of ingredients may seem unusual, they translate into a well-balanced and nuanced flavour profile. Under the wafer-thin baked skin is a silky-smooth paste that boasts top notes of a full-bodied assam tea, peppered with a dash of bright tamarind and citrus flavours, while raisin bits add a pleasant bite and subtle sweetness.

$86 for four (25 per cent off till 18 September for selected credit cards).

For truffle fans: Low-Sugar Chestnut with Cashew Nuts and Truffle from Cherry Garden

Mooncakes most commonly feature lotus seed or red bean paste as the main ingredient. This year, Mandarin Oriental Singapore’s Cantonese restaurant Cherry Garden bucks the trend by introducing a new baked creation made from chestnut paste with reduced sugar instead. These are packed in individual tins, which are housed in matching ivory or red trinket boxes embellished with floral embroidery. A distinctive aroma of truffles (of the fungi, not chocolate variety) emanates from the golden-brown pastry as soon as its packaging is unwrapped. This rich ingredient lifts — instead of overpowers — the otherwise dense and earthy chestnut paste, which gets its crunch from the inclusion of coarsely-chopped cashew nuts.

From $48 for two. HomeTeamNS members enjoy 35 per cent off all mooncakes from Mandarin Oriental Singapore. Other flavours include the Snow Skin Lychee Pineapple with Pine Nuts and the Baked Oriental Beauty Tea with Ginger Red Date.

For fashionistas: Lychee White Lotus Paste from W Singapore – Sentosa Cove

True to form, W Singapore – Sentosa Cove’s foray into mooncakes delivers the standard of style we’ve come to expect from this luxury resort. The treats are packaged in embossed mooncake-shaped handbags designed with a gold-tone turn-lock, top handle and detachable strap. Aesthetics aside, the mooncakes seem a tad too small to justify their price, which leans towards the higher end, and their red-hued baked skin is a little thick. While the lychee white lotus paste is fragrant and smooth, it could do with the addition of melon seeds for textural contrast.

From $118 for a box of four.

SNOWSKIN MOONCAKES

For dessert enthusiasts: Mini Snowskin Cheesecake from Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant

Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant at Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium never fails to pique our interest with their novel snowskin mooncake creations. And being cheesecake aficionados, we were naturally intrigued by this sweet treat inspired by the classic New York cheesecake. Each pastel yellow snowskin mooncake is filled with white lotus paste that encases a cream cheese praline. Though the latter isn’t quite cheesy enough, it blends well with the fragrant snowskin and smooth lotus paste and has a melt-in-your-mouth quality. It’s worth purchasing in a gift set of six assorted flavours as the perfect after-dinner dessert to share — or not.

From $76 for six.

For those seeking the familiar: Peanut Butter Snow from PAUL Singapore

French bakery and brasserie PAUL Singapore is known for familiar yet delicious snowskin mooncake flavours such as mango, chocolate and pistachio. These are presented in a striking red tin and thermal carrier to ensure that they stay chilled. Our favourite variant in the assortment of four flavours — a creamy combination of slightly savoury peanut butter and sweet lotus paste — is particularly addictive and was wolfed down in seconds. The peanut butter, which fills a chocolate truffle in the centre, is reminiscent of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and just as moreish.

$72 for four.

For the young at heart: Popping Candy Truffle with Dragon Fruit Lotus Paste from Mdm Ling Bakery (Halal-certified)

Founded by millennials, Mdm Ling Bakery is known for its wallet-friendly, quality bakes that marry old-school recipes and local flavours with irreverent surprises, which is evident in its range of mooncakes. Not least in its new Snowskin Fruity Truffle Mooncakes collection, with variants that include the Yuzu Truffle with Mung Bean Paste, Lychee Truffle with Mung Bean Paste, and Peach and Passion Fruit Truffle with Dragon Fruit Lotus Paste packed in a floral tin. Of the four flavours in each set, the Popping Candy Truffle with Dragon Fruit Lotus Paste is a standout, with its semi-sweet, mildly citrus filling that doesn’t crowd the palate. Those who grew up in the ‘80s and ‘90s — as well as kids — will get a kick out of the mooncake’s bubblegum pink-and-blue truffle filling that contains popping candy. A fun treat, if not slightly gimmicky.

$76 for four.

For durian lovers: Superfood Snowskin Durian Mooncakes from FORBIDDEN (Halal-certified)

Snowskin mooncakes are meant to be stored in the freezer and slightly thawed (not for too long, or they will get gooey) before consumption to ensure optimal texture and freshness — as per instruction from the various restaurants — and this one is no exception. Though cutting into these treats takes a bit of effort, the reward is a rich ice-cream-like dessert that offers true melt-in-the-mouth decadence for any durian lover. According to FORBIDDEN, the fruit are sourced directly from the hills of Raub in Pahang, Malaysia. Each classic metal tin contains two varieties: Mao Shan Wang durian encased in acai-infused snowskin and coconut snowskin filled with D24 durian. The rich, bittersweet notes of the durian fillings really shine after 15 minutes of thawing, which also makes for the ideal snowskin texture. Though neither “superfood” flavour left much of an impression, the pulpy fillings sure hit the spot.

From $95 for four (up to 25 per cent off).

For those with a penchant for local flair: “Ondeh Ondeh” Pandan Gula Melaka with Grated Coconut from Crowne Plaza Changi Airport

Having been named World’s Best Airport Hotel in 2023, it’s no surprise that Crowne Plaza Changi Airport chose to reference its identity in its mooncake box design. Featuring laser-cut orchid motifs and gold-tone airplane-shaped drawer knobs, the midnight blue trinket box holds a quartet of assorted snowskin mooncakes. These include the Teochew Orh Nee Taro Lotus with Ginkgo Nuts, Pulut Hitam Roasted Dark Glutinous Rice with Coconut Cream, and Black Sesame Paste with Peanut Crunch and Gold Dust. Rounding off the four is our top pick, the Ondeh Ondeh Pandan Gula Melaka with Grated Coconut, which shines with its chewy snowskin in a banana-yellow shade, and conceals a moist lotus paste whose green hue comes from pandan extract. Grated coconut steeped in gula melaka perfectly recreates the flavours of its namesake traditional kueh.

$80 for four (up to 40 per cent off).

IN CONCLUSION…

It was a true struggle to determine my favourite mooncakes among those that made it to this top 10 list. But at the end of the day, it is Crowne Plaza Changi Airport’s “Ondeh Ondeh” Pandan Gula Melaka with Grated Coconut and Assam Tea with Lemon, and the Mung Bean and Raisin from Jade Restaurant at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore that made the most lasting impressions in the snowskin and baked mooncake categories respectively. Even though they feature innovative combinations of ingredients, both manage to retain the essential traditional flavours — definitely worth the extra calories!

More mooncake deals for HomeTeamNS members

Goodwood Park Hotel Singapore – Try their new Pineapple with Custard snowskin mooncake, sample their signature durian creations, or delight your kids with the adorable Bunnies Tubbies. HomeTeamNS members enjoy 20 per cent off a minimum of $100 worth of mooncakes.
Peach Garden Chinese Restaurant – Savour healthier choices including the all-new Immunity Boosting Orange Mooncake With Orange Peel And Pine Nuts, which is available in both baked and snowskin varieties. HomeTeamNS members enjoy up to 30 per cent off online mooncake orders.
Golden Moments – This durian mooncake specialist is offering a one-for-one promotion on its premium snowskin mooncake selection. HomeTeamNS members enjoy an additional 5 per cent discount on top of existing online deals.
Hua Ting Restaurant – Using only the finest ingredients, each mooncake encapsulates a harmonious blend of authentic flavours and modern flair. Now with new flavours such as Mao Shan Wang, Kumquat & Yuzu, and Chendol Lotus with Melon Seeds, HomeTeamNS members can enjoy up to 25 per cent off mooncakes.

Tags food review, tradition, culture, mid-autumn festival, mooncakes

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