Are you a fan of Korean Fried and Oven Roasted Chicken?

Popular Korean Fried Chicken, Vons Chicken, with more than 150 outlets worldwide (USA, China, Australia etc) since 1989 had opened their first outlet in Singapore at 321 Clementi Ave 3.

Wah, there are more than 20 different types of Korean Fried Chickens here. 20!

The signature dish is their 4pcs Golden Wings – Soy Garlic ($5.40), only available as a fried option.

You can get the other flavours in 2 forms – Fried or Oven Roasted in options of 4pcs Wings & Drums ($5.40), 5 pcs Boneless ($5.90) and 2pcs Drumsticks ($7.20). Set meals with regular fries and drinks at an additional $2.50. Very value-for-money.

To further customise to different customers, there are 4 levels of spiciness: Original, Mild, Hot, Volcano (literally explosive on the tongue).

Wait, let me count… That’s like 1, 2, 3… 24 different combinations!

The chickens used are freshly sourced daily, accounting for its tender and fleshy meat. Each chicken deep fried for 8 minutes to a crispy, golden brown colour before serving.

Our favourite of all is the 4pc Golden Wings ($5.40) with a savoury, sweetish, slightly garlicky (not to the extent of warding off vampires) and yet not greasy.

Finger lickin’ good, ok save the action because disposable gloves are provided for a cleaner eating experience.

“That’s like a Thunder Thigh!” The 2pcs drumsticks ($7.20) are huge, juicy and meaty, possibly longer than the length of a palm.

The recommended Hot Spiciness level is manageable (at least to us) with a sweet and sour taste whereas the Volcano level is indeed quiet fiery hot, peppery with a slight Gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste) aftertaste.

If you are all to the highly-spiced challenge, go for the Volcano.

The oven baked ones taste spicier than their fried chicken counterparts, more flavourful in every bite as it will absorb all the zup (sauce) after the heating process.

Not exaggerating, just like a volcano eruption, we could almost feel our sweat erupting from every single sweat pore on our skin after eating the Volcano spiciness level.

This really excites us. The Singapore local has exclusive flavours not available at other Vons outlets wordwide.

Curry Fried Chicken Rice and Fried Chicken Skin.

Not the usual curry-gui-png (Hokkien for curry chicken rice) style, the former was the marriage between the Indian Curry and Korean Fried Chicken. The spiciness of the curry wasn’t too overpowering and complemented with the fried chicken.

For those looking for small bites, the golden brown crispy Fried Chicken Skin can be pretty addictive, and makes a perfect snack while movie-watching or on-the-go.

To cater to the schools nearby, student meals are available at $4.90 and additional $1.50 for drinks on weekdays from 11.30am to 5.30pm.

If you are looking for affordable and Mashisoyo Korean Fried Chicken in the west, it is time to vroom to Vons Chicken.

Vons Chicken
321 Clementi, 321 Clementi Avenue 3, #02- 09, Singapore 129905 (Clementi MRT)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/vonssg

*Written by Nicholas Tan. This entry is brought to you in partnership with Vons Chicken Singapore.

The post Vons Chicken 본스치킨 – Vroom To More Than 20 Types of Korean Fried Chicken At 321 Clementi! appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Bingsu is said have originated from the Joseon Dynasty where historical records show officials sharing crushed ice topped with various fruits.

Now this shaved milk dessert has become the trendiest thing to eat in Singapore right now. To differentiate the good ones from the average, those of higher quality use milk as the base, has fresh roasted nuts and injeolmi, and includes layered components for varied textures.

Here are 34 Places To Get Korean Bingsu In Singapore – Especially When It Gets Hot, Hot, Hot

Central
Nunsaram Korean Dessert Café
181 Orchard Rd #05-51/52 Orchard Central Singapore 238896

Popular with youths at Orchard Central, with an interesting flavour of a purple sweet potato bingsu. Nunsaram (Orchard Central)

O’ma Spoon Korean Dessert Cafe
313 @ Somerset Orchard Road #04-20/32 Singapore 238895

The 2nd branch of O’ma Spoon. Sells toasts but prefer the bingsu better. The best tasting bingsu to us, is the Mango Berry Cheesecake. O’ma Spoon Korean Dessert Cafe (313 Somerset)

8 Korean BBQ
6 Eu Tong Sen Street, The Central, #02-79/90, Singapore 059817

Serves a mega $28++ bingsu meant for sharing between 2-4, looking like a bibimbap, filled with fruits, red bean and mini marshmallows.

Kokomama Marketplace
1 Zubir Said Drive, School of The Arts, #01-01, Singapore 227968 (Dhoby Ghaut or Bras Basah MRT)

Often offer student promo, has some interesting flavours such as Red Ruby. Kokomama Marketplace (SOTA)

The Cup SG
1 Selegie Road #01-05 PoMo Mall, Singapore 188306

Bingsu in takeaway cups. It was… okay, though we found it hard to consume without creating a mess due to the cup’s narrow opening.

Eclipse Bingsu and Coffee
1A Short Street #01-02, Singapore 188210

Eclipse’s Normal Bingsu and Yogurt Bingsu were available in 2 sizes: the regular ($6.90 – $9.90) available in takeaway cups and large ($10.90 – $15.90) in a dine-in bowl. Eclipse (Short Street)

Teng Tea Dessert Café
89 Rangoon Road #01-04, Singapore 218375

A tea-based café selling iced drinks, shibuya toasts, OTT milk shakes and Korean bingsu. (Basically whatever that is trending.)

Ice Box SG
89 Rangoon Road #01-02 Urban Lofts, Singapore 218375

This gets interesting as looking at the address, you can tell Ice Box is just a shop down from Teng. ALO Sells iced drinks, Korean toasts, OTT milk shakes and Korean bingsu.

City Hall & Marina
O’ma Spoon Korean Dessert Cafe
6 Raffles Boulevard #01-01/02/03 Marina Square Singapore 039594

Located next to the foodcourt, slightly hard to find for first-timers. Bingsu’s texture is soft and has that instantaneous melt-in-your-mouth effect. O’ma Spoon (Marina Square)

Chinatown
BiBing 비빙
50, Smith Street, Singapore 058958 (5 min walk from Chinatown MRT)

This is not a bibimbap, but a BiBim ($18) remodelled like a real bibimbap (Korean mixed rice) using fruits of various colours as toppings instead. BiBing (Chinatown Smith Street)

Café Insadong
279 South Bridge Road Singapore 058828 (Chinatown MRT)

Local family owned, but they had Korean consultants to train them. They often offer new flavours. Café Insadong (South Bridge Road)

Banana Tree
26 Keong Saik Road Singapore 089133

The Korean brand which is known to offer photogenic dessert items, like coffee with candy floss. Banana Tree (Keong Siak)

Tanjong Pagar
Chick and Ken
21 Lorong Telok, Raffles Park, Singapore 049033 (Raffles Place MRT)

Bingsu with syringes for you to inject the syrup. Owned by the team behind Stateland Café. Chick and Ken (Lor Telok)

Twins Korean Restaurant
7 Craig Road Singapore 089667 (Tanjong Pagar MRT)

We think this restaurant helmed by two Korean twins sells one of the best soy Korean fried chicken wings, and also rather tasty Korean bingsu. Twins Korean Chicken (Tanjong Pagar)

Tom and Toms
12 Gopeng Street #01-12 Icon Village Singapore 078877 (Tanjong Pagar)

One of Korean’s biggest café chain, good place to study. Bingsu used to be one of the better ones, UNTIL all the rest came along.

Dabang
52 Tanjong Pagar Road Singapore 088473 (8-10 min walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT)

A Monster Bingsu ($25) overflowing with ingredients, like those OTT milkshakes. Da Bang (Tanjong Pagar)

Bugis
Jinjja Chicken
249 Victoria Street (Bugis Village), Singapore 188032 (Bugis MRT)

Sells tasty fried chicken fast food style, with finely, shaved milk in a small takeaway cup. One of the most affordable bingsu around. Jinjja Chicken (Bugis Village)

 
Nunsongyee 눈송이 @ Bugis
534 North Bridge Road Singapore 188749 (opposite Bugis Junction, adjacent to Tan Quee Lan Street)

The 3rd branch of Nunsongyee, opens 24/7. Nunsongyee (Bugis)

Snowy Village
120A Prinsep Street Singapore 187937 (near Lasalle, Sim Lim Square)

An interesting concept, probably Singapore’s only Korean container café. Snowy Village (Prinsep Street)

West
Bing Jo Gung Dessert House
Bt Timah Plaza (next to taxi stand), 1 Jalan Anak Bukit, Singapore 588996 (King Albert Park MRT)

Popular with the Korean expatriates around the region, we thought their bingsu tasted better before though. Bing Go Jung (Bt Timah Plaza)

One Thing Coffee Kids Café
170 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Bukit Timah Shopping Centre #B2-17 (Beautiful World MRT)

A family friendly Korean-owned café offering a variety of items.

Nunuiwangja 눈의 왕자
HillV2, 4 Hillview Rise, #01-08, Singapore 667979 (Hillview MRT)

Korean bingsu with a hidden popsicle within. Nunuiwangja (HillV2)

 
Chi Bing
The Star Vista 1 Vista Exchange Green Singapore 138617 (Buona Vista MRT)

Korean restaurant at the corner of Star Vista with plenty of seats (think they need PLENTY of publicity). Bingsu texture was okay, ingredients used tasted average.

Frozen
3151 Commonwealth Avenue West #01-13, City Vibe, Singapore 129581 (5 min walk from Clementi MRT)

Obviously named after THAT movie, with Olaf Melon Bingsu and Elsa Snow Flakes. Yes, we are serious. Frozen (Clementi)

One Ice Café
2 Jurong East Central 1, JCube #02-67 Singapore 609731

For $6.80 and a huge portion, we cannot complain much lah.

Paris Baguette
JEM #02-20 50 Jurong Gateway Road, Singapore 608549 (Jurong East MRT)

It’s Paris Baguette, so you can kind of expect how it would taste.

Nunsaram Korean Dessert Café
3 Gateway Drive #04-37 Westgate Singapore 608532 (Jurong East MRT)

We like Nunsaram’s Injeolmi bingsu, which has a lightly roasted fragrance.

East
Bing Jo Gung Dessert House
102 Guillemard Road #01-01 Singapore 399719 (Mountbatten MRT)

Probably the first Korean bingsu café in Singapore.

Nunsongyee 눈송이
232 Tanjong Katong Road Singapore 437020

A franchise to the popular Korean bingsu brand. Nunsongyee (Tanjong Katong)

Chicken Up
2 Tampines Central 5, #01-44 Century Square, Century Square, Singapore 529509 (Tampines MRT)

The popular chicken wings maker sells bingsu in craved fruits.

North
Nunsongyee 눈송이
45 Burghley Drive #01-04, Singapore 559022 (15-20 min walk from Lorong Chuan MRT)

This is like super hard to find, even for those who drive. People have made their way there to try their legendary soft bingsu (of course we can go Bugis now for that taste). Nunsongyee (Burghley Drive)

Snowman Desserts
Serangoon NEX #02-04, 23 Serangoon Central Singapore 556083 (within Ministry of Food)
Tel: +65 6634 4608

Known for its melon and mango bingsu, may take a while to serve. Snowman Desserts (NEX)

South
Caffebene Singapore
Vivocity, 1 Harbourfront Walk #02-150 Singapore 098585 (between TCC and Sushi Tei)

One of Korean’s most prominent café chain. Bingsu served in their signature bowl with ingredients like red beans, almond flakes, macademia nuts and topped with a scoop of gelato and whipped cream. Caffebene Singapore (Vivocity)

 
Insadong Korea Town
Resorts World Sentosa, 26 Sentosa, Gateway #01-30/31/32/33, Singapore 098138 (Near Trickeye Museum)

Interesting food court style place with self-ordering system. Insadong Korea Town (Sentosa)

Other Related Entries
17 Korean Bingsu In Singapore
16 Best Korean Fried Chicken In Singapore
10 Best Korean Cafes In Singapore

* Compiled by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary and Nicholas Tan @Stormscape

The post 34 Places To Get Korean Bingsu In Singapore – Especially When It Gets Hot, Hot, Hot appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Shortly after the “Better Than Boyfriend” Churro101 came to Singapore at Bugis Plus, the Korean (food) wave continues to hit our shores with the introduction of Mr Churro. (Read: 10 Best Churros In Singapore)

With a total of 18 outlets in Korea, Mr Churro calls itself “an artisanal churros kiosk producing delectable churros with the best ingredients”, now opened as a takeaway kiosk at Orchard ION Basement 4.

The churros come in many different shapes, some in over-the-top fashion – curved, lengthy, or a few sticking out of a softserve cup. As if just one is not enough.

Mr Churro offers a 50 cm long (that is 19.7 inches long) Original Churro ($4.50), $0.50 for additional dips in flavours such as Blueberry, Dark Chocolate, Milk Custard.

Unique items include the Nutty Churro ($5.90), Ice Cream Churro ($6.50) with 2 flavours: Banana Milk and Vanilla and Filler Churro ($4.90) with Chocolate Custard and Milk Custard.

Other than Churros, Banana Milk or Vanilla Ice Cream ($3.50), Ade Green Grape ($3.50) and Frappe ($5.50) are available.

Churros are baked on the spot upon request. Waiting time for us was 10-15 minutes on a non-peak timing.

Each churro is deep fried to give it a golden brown crust, before dusting it with a specific ratio of sugar and cinnamon.

Not too sweet and overwhelming, with the right amount of cinnamon. We liked it.

The lengthy Original Churro cost $4.50 here, almost twice the price of what it would have cost back in Korea (KRW 2000, approx SGD$2.40).

Our favourite was the Banana Milk Ice Cream Churro ($6.50), with smoothly rich and milky milk softserve, with a lingering taste of bananas which reminded us of the Korean drink 바나나우유 (pronounced as ‘Ba-na-na ooo-you’).

The oats added some crunch, reminding us of a daily milk with cereal breakfast. Coupled with 4 sticks of churros sticking out, this is like a hearty ‘meal’.

The Nutty Churro ($5.90) came in a kacang-puteh look-alike takeaway cup – crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, decent chocolate sauce, but the added almond flakes and peanuts did little to enhance the taste.

The Chocolate Custard filled Churro ($4.90) looked similar to its competitor, though paled in comparison – less chocolatey, more expensive, not as colourful and varied.

There were also some consistency issues, with varying standards amongst those we tried. Some more crispy, some doughy.

And so yes, the boyfriend wins Mr Churro.

Our honest opinion? The local customers are not into churros as much as the Koreans, and this will just be another passing fad, rather than something consumers will order on a regular basis.

What 2015 taught us is: trends are getting shorter, and Mr Churro will need to churn out something more substantial to stand the test of time.

Mr Churro SG
ION Orchard #B4-61, 2 Orchard Turn Singapore 238801 (Orchard MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/MrChurroSG

Other Related Entries
10 Best Churros In Singapore
15 Soft Serves & Frozen Yogurt In Singapore
Churro101 (Bugis Plus)
AmaSoy (Ion Orchard)
Sweet Monster (Plaza Singapura)

* Written by Daniel’s Food Diary Cafe Correspondent Nicholas Tan @stormscape. Additional input by @DanielFoodDiary

The post Mr Churro Singapore – Long 50cm Churros At Orchard ION. Is This Also “Better Than Boyfriend”? appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Korean BBQ, bingsu, Andong Jjimdak, Korean fried chicken, churros, softserve, candy floss coffee … the Korean wave is reaching us strong and fierce all right.

Some sumptuously tasty, some just pure photogenic. These are 20 Korean famous food brands that reached Singapore, most brought in by a franchise model.

My friend had a rude shock when he learnt that 4 Fingers is not a Korean brand “WHAT?!”, and interesting to note that most of the Korean Bingsu shop in Singapore are operated by Koreans who stay and work here, or local (not so much of a franchise model).

20 Popular Korean Restaurants & Cafes That Arrived In Singapore. The Year Of K-Food

Masizzim Singapore
313 Somerset #B3-02 (next to Chir Chir) 313 Orchard Rd Singapore 238895 (Somerset MRT)
Tel: +65 6509 5808
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (last order 9:30pm), 11am – 11pm (last order 10:30pm)

Masizzim (pronounced ma-see-zim, hard to spell, I know) is the combination of two Korean words – ‘masi’ which is short for ‘delicious’ and ‘jjim’ for stew.

The hip casual restaurant serves modern dishes at quite affordable rates friendly to the pocket. Expect signature stews, rice balls, pancakes and kimchi fried rice. Great for group outings. (Read: Masizzim Singapore 313 Somerset)

Andong Zzimdak
Raffles City Shopping Centre B1-44F, 252 North Bridge Road Singapore 179103 (City Hall MRT)
Tel: +65 6533 3951
Opening Hours: 11.30 am – 10 pm Daily

THIS IS HUGE, and SPICY. Please get some friends to share. Andong Jjimdak (the dish) is a seasoned and simmered chicken dish that originated in Gyeongsangbukdo, Andong. You may have seen Andong Zzimdak (the restaurant brand) at Myeong-dong where there are several other competing shops.

This popular Korean dish consists of chopped chicken parts, potatoes, onions, vegetables and sweet potato noodles, mixed with a spicy soy-based sauce and then simmered. Fresh green chili pepper called “Cheongyang gochu” is added to provide that distinct spiciness. (Read: Andong Zzimdak Raffles City)

Vatos Urban Tacos
36 Beach Road Singapore 189767
Tel: +65 6385 6010
Opening Hours: 11:30 – 11pm (Mon – Thurs), 11:30pm – 1pm

When one thinks of Korean cuisine, Kimchi Carnitas Fries and Tacos rarely come to mind, unless you are talking about Korean restaurant chain Vatos Urban Tacos. It was once termed by CNN as “the hottest new restaurant in Seoul”.

Other than the Kimchi Carnitas Fries, other recommended items include Galbi Short Rib Tacos (marinated short rib, ssamjang aioli, Asian slaw, cilantro, chopped onions, and roasted sesame seeds on a handmade tortilla) and Mango Prawn Quesadillas (chipotle marinated prawn flash fried and topped with cilantro lime crema and fresh mango salsa).

Banana Tree Singapore
26 Keong Saik Road Singapore 089133
Opening Hours: 11am – 9pm (Tues-Sat), 12pm – 7pm (Sun), Closed Mon

The arrival of this café has excited Korean pop culture lovers, café hoppers and food instagrammers, because it is THE Banana Tree café.

The South Korean café chain is popular for its banana theme decorations, yellow and white clean look, and pretty potted plant desserts. This is one of those days that you have coffee with cotton candy. How can? But works for pictures. Chio mah! (Read: Banana Tree Keong Siak)

Caffebene Singapore
Vivocity, 1 Harbourfront Walk #02-150 Singapore 098585 (between TCC and Sushi Tei)
Opening Hours: 8am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

The popular Caffebene, voted the best coffee brand in Korea has opened its first Singapore outlet at Vivocity.

Similar to other outlets around the world, there is that iconic Caffebene clock, indoor tree and a vintage touch in its interior. (Read: Caffebene Singapore Vivocity)

Paris Baguette Singapore
JEM #02-20, Tampines Mall #01-32, Bugis Junction B1-24/25, One Raffles Place basement, Changi Airport T2 Level 1 Public Area.

If you are thinking this is some French brand, nope. This chain is actually the top Korean bakery, receiving “constant love” for its freshly baked bread, cakes, sandwiches, desserts and brunch items.

It has over 3500 stores in Korea, US and China. None in Paris though.

The cakes we try – a strawberry cream Mille-Feuille, cute Wahaha Chocolate Cake, and Peach Tart (between $6.50 and $8.50), are pretty to look at, but not so pretty to eat. Some dry, some lacking that delicate touch. (Read: Paris Baguette Wisma Atria)

Tom N Toms
12 Gopeng Street #01-12 Icon Village Singapore 078877
Tel: +65 6225 6313

Tom N Toms 탐엔탐스커피 must be one of Korean’s largest café chains that can found internationally. It is also one of the earliest Korean café to set food in Singapore. Remember the ones at Far East Plaza and Vivocity? Unfortunately, the Korean fever was not waving that hard then.

Munch on toast, pretzels, pastries and bingsu – with flavours of Green Tea and Red Bean ($11.90), Mango ($10.90), Taro ($9.90), Yogurt Cheesecake ($12.90) and Milk Tea ($10.90). A favourite venue for CBD executive and groups of students for discussions and book-mugging. Free WIFI and quiet sitting area.

Churro101 Singapore
201 Victoria Street #04-01 Bugis Plus Singapore 188067 (Bugis MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm Daily

Churro101 has gained a huge fan base since its opening in 2011. Some of its fans include top K-pop groups likes Girls’ Generation, F(x), Miss A and Girls’ Days.

They say their churros are “Better than a boyfriend”. Whatever that means. The shop has adopted a show kitchen concept where people get to see how the churros are being prepared, making the process more visual and engaging. Long queues during opening days. Not anymore. (Read: Churro101 Bugis Plus)

Mr Churro
ION Orchard #B4-61, 2 Orchard Turn Singapore 238801 (Orchard MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

With a total of 18 outlets in Korea, Mr Churro calls itself “an artisanal churros kiosk producing delectable churros with the best ingredients”, now opened as a takeaway kiosk at Orchard ION Basement 4.

The churros come in many different shapes, some in over-the-top fashion – curved, lengthy, or a few sticking out of a softserve cup. As if just one is not enough. (Read: Mr Churro Singapore ION Orchard)

Milkcow
The Cathay #01-03, Velocity Novena #01-19, The Star Vista #B1-06, Bugis Juntion #B1-K3, Tampines 1 #B1-K17, Jurong IMM #01-K06, Jurong Point #B1 – 27

The Korean organic soft serve ice cream. Milk Cow’s soft serves are made from organic milk from grass-fed cow free of preservatives.

The popular flavours include the Milk Cube ($5.90) added with organic natural honey comb, Snow Drop ($5.90) which has an instagram-worthy cotton candy topping (which really ranges in portion), Milky Shot ($6.50) with a single shot of espresso, and Mocao Dream ($6.50) with handcrafted macaron and almond flakes. Warning: Melts super fast in this weather, even inside the malls. (Read: Milk Cow The Cathay)

Sweet Monster Singapore
Plaza Singapura, #B2-49, Singapore 238839 (Dhoby Ghaut MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

Korean franchise Sweet Monster ate its way into Singapore, known for its softserve covered with crispy popcorn, and landed a spot at Plaza Singapura as a takeaway kiosk.

Their signature Mix Flavour Popcorn Ice Cream ($6.80) comes with both cheese and caramel flavoured popcorns. Only available in one cup size (highly recommended for sharing because it is very sweet), the height of the ice cream could vary depending on the skill of the scooper. (The popcorn a bit lao long). (Read: Sweet Monster Plaza Singapura)

Vons Chicken
321 Clementi, 321 Clementi Avenue 3, #02- 09, Singapore 129905 (Clementi MRT)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

Popular Korean Fried Chicken, Vons Chicken, with more than 150 outlets worldwide (USA, China, Australia etc) since 1989 had opened their first outlet in Singapore at 321 Clementi Ave 3. The signature dish is their 4pcs Golden Wings – Soy Garlic ($5.40), only available as a fried option.

You can get the other flavours in 2 forms – Fried or Oven Roasted in options of 4pcs Wings & Drums ($5.40), 5 pcs Boneless ($5.90) and 2pcs Drumsticks ($7.20). Set meals with regular fries and drinks at an additional $2.50. Very value-for-money. (Read: Vons Chicken Clementi)

Chir Chir 치르치르
313@somerset #B3-04/05/06, Singapore 238895
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Thurs, Sun), 11am – 11pm (Fri-Sat)

Chir Chir Fusion Chicken Factory is a popular Korean restaurant chain specialising in deep fried Korean style chicken and other freshly cooked chicken dishes such as Spicy BBQ Roasted Chicken, Garlic Roasted Chicken and Crispy Fried Tenders.

Not forgetting the Snow Nest with deep fried chicken tenders swimming in a pool of rich creamy white sauce, a scoop of sweet salad hidden below. Diet plans have to step aside. (Read: Chir Chir 313 @ Somerset)

NeNe Chicken
*Scape 2 Orchard Link #02-39 Singapore 237978
Tel: +65 6509 0907
Opening Hours: 11am-10pm, last order 9:15pm daily (Mon-Thurs, Sun), 11am – 11pm last order 10:15pm (Fri, Sat)
Other branches at Star Vista, Bedok Mall, The Seletar Mall, Eastpoint Mall, Hougang Mall

I know everyone kind of jokes about their popcorn chicken – The NeNe Pop. Like, “Can I have two Nene Pops, please” can sound so wrong.

What I liked about NeNe was that despite the chicken being coated with rich sauce, the skin and batter still remains rather crisp. Though sometimes I had disappointing ones – mid-soggy and not so piping hot as it should had been. (Read: NeNe Chicken Scape)

Bonchon Chicken 본촌치킨
201 Victoria Street, #01-11 Bugis+ (former Illuma, opposite Bugis MRT), Singapore 188067, Tel: +65 6884 4768
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 11:0pm

Bonchon Chicken is enjoying greater fame overseas than our Singapore unit. Unfortunately. Service (or the lack of) and long waiting times were its greatest liability here.

Their chicken is deep fried twice – so the skin becomes crunchier and the meat less greasy when compared to the usual American fast food fried chicken. It feels kind of pricey though.

The skin comes off in pieces, with the sauces nicely enveloping it. The meat not quite like the usual, is tasty and not too oily. Plus point, it didn’t leave much of a stain on your fingers even if we used hands directly.

Bornga
VivoCity, #02-123/124, 1 Harbourfront Avenue, Singapore 098585. Tel: +65 6376 8268
The Star Vista, #02-24, 1 Vista Exchange Green, Singapore 138617. Tel: +65 6694 4696
Opening Hours: 11:30am to 10.00pm Daily

This is Korea’s leading BBQ restaurant, led by famous celebrity chef Jon Won Paik, and this restaurant franchise has more than 30 outlets across Korea, the US, China and Indonesia.

Chef Jon Won Paik wanted to create a new style of BBQ meat that could retain the natural colours and taste, unlike many other Korean style meat which are dark in colour due to over marinating. The result is the signature and patented Woo Sam Gyup – thinly sliced beef brisket dressed a special sauce. Like it, but expensive. (Read: Bornga Vivocity)

Yoogane Singapore
200 Victoria Street, Bugis Junction #02-47/48 Singapore 188021 (Bugis MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm

Yoogane (요가네 pronounced yoo-ga-nay is a chicken galbi restaurant from Busan Korea. It is established in 1981, is quite a famous ‘Dakgalbi’ restaurant back home – selling tender chicken meat in a spicy sauce marinate.

Fans who braved queues said that it tasted almost the same, just perhaps less in portions to the Korean counterpart. (Read: Yoogane Singapore Bugis Junction)

J-Story
NEUE B2-53 Capitol Piazza, 15 Stamford Road, Singapore 178906
Tel: +65 6384 1020

J-Story is better known as Juk Story back home, known for its Teuk Jeonbok Juk (Rice Porridge with Abalone).

Other than 8 types of porridge sold, including Abalone ($12.90), Ginseng & Chicken ($8.90), Crab ($12.90), and Mushroom & Vegetable ($8.90), the ‘health’ element is not too apparent on the menu. (Read: J-Story Capitol Piazza)

Chef’s Noodle
Habourfront Centre, 1 Maritime Square, #01-99/100, Singapore 099253 (Harbourfront MRT)
Tel: +65 6271 3033
Jurong Point Shopping Centre, 63 Jurong West Central 3, #B1-45/46, Singapore 648331 (Boon Lay MRT)
Tel: +65 6686 3108
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:00pm

The food is modernised by Korean Celebrity Chef Choi In Sun (sorry but I do not know who he is), known for his Korean food show “The Starking Series” and fedora hats. The signature is a Chef’s Guksoo which is kind of ramyun meets ramen, yet with its own unique quality.

The broth is an off-white light savoury- sweet flavoured beef broth, spicy but not the type of intense Korean-spicy you would have otherwise expected, and topped with stewed pork bulgogi, vegetables, and a signature rectangular egg-roll. Which is really like the sweet Japanese tamago found on sushi. (Read: Chef’s Noodle Harbourfront)

Bibigo
252 North Bridge Road, #B1-74 Raffles City Shopping Centre, Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 6336 4745
Suntec City Mall #B1-107, 3 Temasek Boulevard Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 65 6338 5809

The brand “Bibigo” is a Korean-English portmanteau from Korean bi-bi-da, to mix, and English, to-go, serving modern Korean dishes.

They are known for their Hot Stone Bibimbap, Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Stew) and Mandoo (Dumplings) – tasting healthier than the usual Korean restaurants though. You may have seen a PSY standee outside their restaurant.

What is your favourite? And which brand do you hope to see come to our sunny shores?
Other Related Entries
34 Places To Get Korean Bingsu In Singapore
10 Best Korean Cafes In Singapore
16 Best Korean Fried Chicken In Singapore
Masizzim Singapore (313 Somerset)
Vons Chicken (Clementi)

* Compiled by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary . Photos partly by Nicholas Tan @stormscape.

The post 20 Popular Korean Restaurants & Cafes That Arrived In Singapore. The Year Of K-Food appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Ice Lab has opened with a Big Bang (pun unintended) specialising in Bingsu (more), churros (more more) and toast. It took over House of Robert Timms at Orchard Shopping Centre,

This Ice Lab is opened by none other than Korean Comedian Shin Jung-Hwan – famous for his comic dance and silly acts. This marks his first venture overseas.

Doesn’t matter Shin-who, the café is filled with video clips of Korean celebrities such as Running Man cast Haha, Gary and Kim Jong Kook, and 15 opening bouquets with Korean congratulatory messages written on them – enough to send non-Shin fans for a look.

We were impressed with the 1.5 storeys high, 80 seating capacity, snow making machine that created falling snow in the middle of a round table, 6 bingsu making machines to make 6 different flavours of bingsu (each machine is a 5 figure sum) and a clean, white and spacious interior.

Jinjja extravagant, and jinjja white.

Korean Bingsu competition will be stiff with Nunsaram at Orchard Central, O’ma Spoon Korean Dessert Cafe at 313 Somerset, and Ice Lab at Orchard Shopping Centre, all 3 buildings right next to one another.

As for churros, there are Churros Factory at Orchard Central, ‘Better Than Boyfriend’ Churro101 at 313@Somerset and Ice Lab at Orchard Shopping Centre.

Same same, close proximity, tough fight.

The menu features 6 flavours of Bingsu in 2 sizes – Small ($15.30 – $19.30) and Large at an additional $4.

Churros are available at $4.30 with 6 different sauce dips ($1.20) – choco, white choc, honey, cream cheese, caramel, blueberry jam.

Something different will be the Korean Toast ($8.50) and Matang ($13.30) with sweet potato drenched in honey and nuts.

Our favourite was the Green Tea Bingsoo ($17.20 for small, $21.20 for large) with fine shaved milk topped with a scoop of green tea ice cream, azuki beans, sunflower seeds and cashew nuts.

To increase efficiency, each Bingsu machine produced one Bingsu flavour with a specific proportion mixture for the shavings, so each snowflake is slightly different from one another.

The snowflake shavings were refined, rich, milky, slightly on the sweeter side which could overpower the green tea taste at times. Liked the contrast in texture from the nuts and seeds though.

Being the most expensive Bingsu on the list, the Mango Bingsoo ($19.30 for small, $23.30 for large) could be a tad costly compared to other cafes. The milk shavings were less milky and melted rather quickly.

Toppings were generous with large chunks of sweet mango, kiwi and a scoop of mango ice cream with a refreshing take on the usual milk bingsu.

Still, the mango syrup added was a tad sweet for our liking.

We enjoyed the Churros ($4.30) served in a cooking pan. Very crispy and golden brown on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with the right amount of sugar and cinnamon. Mashisoyo!

The ambience was young and hipster, with K-pop music playing in the background (fan girls at our neighbouring table screaming at each song) and handsome/ pretty service crews in white lab coats which kind of reminded me of the Running Man characters.

Except, there is no name tag pasted on it.

The execution of a lab wasn’t as distinct, except for the lab coats. But well… let the experiment begins! Hwaiting!

Ice Lab
Orchard Shopping Centre, 321 Orchard Road #01-01/02, Singapore 238866 (Somerset MRT)
Opening Hours: 9.30am – 10.30pm (Mon-Thu), 9.30am – 11pm (Fri), 10am – 11pm (Sat), 10am – 11pm (Sun), Closing timing at 1am everyday till 31 Jan 2016

Other Related Entries
34 Places To Get Korean Bingsu In Singapore
Churro101 (Bugis Plus)
O’ma Spoon Korean Dessert Cafe (313 Somerset)
Choo Choo Chicken (Orchard Cineleisure)
Nunsaram (Orchard Central)

* Written by Daniel’s Food Diary Cafe Correspondent Nicholas Tan @stormscape

The post Ice Lab – Korean Comedian Shin Jung-Hwan Opens Bingsu & Churros Cafe At Somerset appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Wait, isn’t churros of Spanish or Portuguese origins, but it seems like ‘Korean churros’ are the next big fad is Singapore.

According to one hearsay, churros were brought to Europe from China by the Portuguese, thus the resemblance to dough sticks.

Over at Seoul, Churro Factory, Street Churros, Café Chu, Churro 101 are some of the biggest names there. And even McDonald’s are selling these cinnamon sugar-covered fried desserts. Koreans are obviously lovin’ it.

Here are some places in Singapore you can get Korean-style churros. Let me know if you come across anymore. (Also read: 10 Best Churros In Singapore)

Mr Churro SG
ION Orchard #B4-61, 2 Orchard Turn Singapore 238801 (Orchard MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

With a total of 18 outlets in Korea, Mr Churro calls itself “an artisanal churros kiosk producing delectable churros with the best ingredients”.

The churros come in many different shapes, some in over-the-top fashion – curved, lengthy, or a few sticking out of a softserve cup. As if just one is not enough.

Mr Churro offers a 50 cm long (that is 19.7 inches long) Original Churro ($4.50), $0.50 for additional dips in flavours such as Blueberry, Dark Chocolate, Milk Custard. There were also some consistency issues, with varying standards amongst those we tried. Some more crispy, some doughy.

Churro101 Singapore
201 Victoria Street #04-01 Bugis Plus Singapore 188067 (Bugis MRT)
313@Somerset #B3-49 Singapore 238895 (Somerset MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm Daily

Known as the “Better than boyfriend” churros, some of its fans include top K-pop groups likes Girls’ Generation, F(x), Miss A and Girls’ Days.

The Plain Churro ($3.30) – handmade from scratch, about 30cm long (Length varies depending on the churro maker). It had a crispy buttery exterior coupled with an airy interior, seemed worth the money spent. If you like something more colourful and adventurous-tasting, try the filled flavours such as Cream Cheese Churro ($4.70), Chocolate Filled Churro ($4.50) and Milk Mustard Churro ($4.50). The former had a tangy creamy filling, while the latter two were leaning towards being very sweet.

(The author notes that the rating column which was previously on their Facebook, has been removed.)

Ice Lab
Orchard Shopping Centre, 321 Orchard Road #01-01/02, Singapore 238866 (Somerset MRT)
Opening Hours: 9.30am – 10.30pm (Mon-Thu), 9.30am – 11pm (Fri), 10am – 11pm (Sat), 10am – 11pm (Sun), Closing timing at 1am everyday till 31 Jan 2016

This Ice Lab is opened by Korean Comedian Shin Jung-Hwan – famous for his comic dance and silly acts.

The Churros ($4.30) is served in a cooking pan – a different presentation. Very crispy and golden brown on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with the right amount of sugar and cinnamon.

Snowman Desserts
Serangoon NEX #02-04, 23 Serangoon Central Singapore 556083
Tel: +65 6634 4608
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:00pm

At $3.50, Snowman Desserts’ Ice Cream with Churros with an additional topping of sauce is probably the most affordable all around. Kiwi, Apple, Strawberry, and Red Bean flavours are available.

Churros were deep fried on the spot as well, crispy on the outside, doughy which did remind us of youtiao. However, there appeared to be consistency issues and long waiting times as well.

Other Related Entries
10 Best Churros In Singapore
34 Places To Get Korean Bingsu In Singapore
Mr Churro (Ion Orchard)
Sweet Monster (Plaza Singapura)
Churro101 (Bugis Plus)

* Compiled by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary, Nicholas Tan @stormscape and Hannah Chia @mshannahchia.

The post Where To Get ‘Korean Churros’ In Singapore – Crispy, Sweet & Long appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Seoul] “Must go, must go.” Noodle restaurant Myeongdong Kyoja 명동교자 seems to be a highly recommended in Myeongdong by friends who texted me.

Having been around for more than 40 years, Myeongdong Kyoja claims to be the founders of handmade Kalguksu noodles, which literally means noodles made by cutting flour dough into thin slices by knife.

The noodle restaurant was formally known as Myeongdong Kalguksu, but forced to change name to ‘Kyoja’ after there were too many copycats who ripped off their name.

It wasn’t too hard to find the shop in the beauty-fashion shops filled Myeongdong (used Google Maps). There are 2 branches within close vicinity with each other.

Myeongdong Kyoja occupies a 3-storey shop-space, completely filled when I visited, despite having a rather lean menu.

There were just 4 items on sale – Kalguksu ‘chopped noodle’ soup (₩8,000, SGD$9.60), Bibimguksu spicy noodle soup (₩8,000, SGD$9.60), Mandu dumplings (₩10,000, SGD$12), Kongguksu noodles in cold soybean soup (Available during summer time.)

You can spot almost every table ordering the same items. And my dumpling arrived like within a minute of ordering. It was that fast.

“So simple yet delicious!” My 1st reaction to the Kalguksu as it looked like an unassuming modest bowl of noodles (which reminded me of ban mian).

But the whole mouthful was a pleasurable surprise – the noodle’s texture was exceptionally slippery smooth, like a much softer form of udon.

The chicken broth soup clear yet nourishing, didn’t need much salt to enhance its taste, a comfort dish with ingredients of minced meat, dumplings and vegetables.

The one dish that I really enjoyed and would recommend (more than the Kalguksu) would be the Bibimguksu – cold soft wheat noodles tossed in this special spicy red pepper paste sauce.

The spiciness is what we would call ”shiok” (Singaporean) or ”mashiseoyo” (Korean).

Similarly, Myeongdong Kyoja’s kimchi is one of the best I ever had, made with abundant amounts of hot pepper and garlic, salted with sea salt, and stored for at least 3 years.

Warning: you could walk out with kimchi breath, and fortunately a gum was given.

Despite appearing quite legit with all the folds, the signature Mandu was less impressive on taste. Perhaps it happened to be on the milder side, and I wished for juicier fillings.

However, I appreciated its thin translucent skin, almost perfect folds with fresh pork and vegetables wrapped within. Compared to the typical dumplings, there wasn’t the porky aftertaste.

Myeongdong Kyoja 명동교자
29, Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (Myeong-dong 2-ga)
서울특별시 중구 명동10길 29 (명동2가)
Tel: +82-2-776-5348 (Main outlet)
Opening Hours: 10:30am – 9:30pm
Myeongdong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exit 8.
Upon exiting the station, turn left onto Myeongdong 10-gil Road.
Go straight about 150m to arrive at Myeongdong Kyoja (명동교자) on the right
Google Maps

Branch: 33-4 2-ga, Myeong-dong Jung-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82-2-776-3424
From Myeongdong Station (Exit 8), turn left onto Myeongdong 10-gil Road.
Go straight about 280m to arrive at the restaurant on the left.

Other Related Entries
Korea Samgyetang (Seoul)

The post Myeongdong Kyoja 명동교자 – Kalguksu Noodles & Dumplings Shop. Spicy Noodles Was Superb appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

CNN reviewed Vatos Urban Tacos as “the hottest new restaurant in Seoul” when it first opened. Time will tell if the fate will be similar for Singapore’s first outlet at South Beach Quarter. This is also the first VATOS outside of Korea.

VATOS serves up Korean-Mexican (Ko-Mex) style of cuisine, started by three Korean-Americans.

Therefore, we can expect food to be in the likes of their signature Kimchi Carnitas Fries ($16); Galbi Short Rib Tacos ($12 for 2 tacos, $17 for 3), Kimchi Pork ($18), and Mango Prawn Quesadillas ($22).

After more than a dozen Korean BBQ and Korean fried chicken shops opening up (has it reached a yawn stage), a Ko-Mex restaurant spells “refreshing”.

Interesting to note: Menu prices are in an extremely small font size (looks like a 6-7 to me), which my friend quipped that “drunk people better be careful with over-ordering and get shocked by the bill”.

The Kimchi Carnitas Fries ($16) was voted the “best dish in Korea” by 10 Magazine and one of the “six must-try foods in Seoul” by The Fodor’s Travel Guide.

It was actually good stuff. Shoestring fried drizzled with both sour cream and hot sauce, topped with fresh chopped onions, melted cheese, KIMCHI and a sprinkling of braised pork.

I find the mix of both sauces pleasurable, as one could lick off the creaminess at the edge, mixed with a dash of fieriness. Not overly spicy, I must say.

However, we all wished it was a few dollars off its price.

As for the Galbi Short Rib Tacos $17 for 3), we liked the filings of marinated short rib, ssamjang aioli, Asian slaw, cilantro, chopped onions, and roasted sesame seeds, but not quite much the handmade tortilla which could be easier the bite.

The best thing we had though, was the Honey Tequila Chicken Wings ($16) which are coated in this addictive sweet and spicy honey tequila sauce, served with jalapeños and blue cheese sauce. Woo-wee.

Surprisingly, quite juicy as well. I would order this again if I return.

When Vatos Urban Tacos first opened in Seoul, there were up to 3 hour lines. We have yet to expect anything close to that in Singapore, and I suspect it is a mixture of (hipster) awareness and price point.

Vatos Urban Tacos
South Beach Quarter, 36 Beach Road Singapore 189767
Tel: +65 63856010
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 11pm (Mon – Thurs), 11:30am – 12am (Fri – Sat)

Other Related Entries
Joo Bar (Tan Quee Lan St)
Masizzim (Orchard)
Andong Zzimdak (Raffles City)
Twins Korean Chicken (Tanjong Pagar)
Ice Lab (Somerset)

*Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise indicated.

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A few distinct features about Seorae at Plaza Singapura caught our attention – a special ‘circle grilling’ technique, accompanied with silky egg and fragrant garlic that can be cooked around the grill. You can also top-up with melted cheese for more creaminess over the meats.

Seorae is a Korean charcoal BBQ franchise which signature is Korean galmaegisal, also known as pork skirt meat.

This meat is found between the ribs and the belly of the pig, a unique cut that forms only 250 grams of every full-grown pig, said to have been served exclusively to the Royal Family of Korea during ancient times.

While most of the dishes we tried were decent, a few aspects here and there could potentially put customers off. So I would urge fellow diners to just have more patience.

The slogan goes “Eat like a king!”, but the price point would suggest anything but that.

A portion for the King Galmaegisal meat is at $29.90, So Galb short ribs $42.90, and La Balbi Beef ribs $38.90. Ordered the Three Musketeers plate which consisted of original, sweet and spicy pork belly which was at a more reasonable $31.90.

The meat was well-marinated and efficiently grilled for us. The cheese did up both the taste and guilt level.

However, the Dosirak ($12.90) ordered came sans the seaweed, which we ‘own self’ add later. (We were fine with that.) BUT we noticed something amiss when the beef sausage reflected on the menu looked like and tasted like chicken.

“Em, just want to confirm, is this chicken or beef?”

“Confirm beef,” The waiter said it with 100% conviction. Which was quickly retracted after we asked him to clarify with the kitchen.

“Sorry it’s chicken. The menu had a typo.”

We were not angry, but amused actually with the reasoning. BUT can imagine that some other diners may not be that pleased at that retort.

The Sundubu Jjigae ($18.90 for large, $14.90 for small) must have arrived with a cm thick layer of oil. “Oil free ah.”

We were perplexed by the size of the bowl, clarified and were confirmed this was a LARGE portion. Fortunately, we were not that hungry. And this is one of the few Korean restaurants locally which do not serve jjigae dishes with a complimentary bowl of rice. But to its credit, the soft tofu stew had quite a tasty base which should have a more-mass appeal.

After the Bibim Patbingsoo ($12.90) didn’t arrive 20 minutes after we requested for it to be served, the reply was “You all must tell us to serve in the first place.” Oh-my-tian.

By the way, we liked most of the food here, but skip the bingsu unless they do something about the coarse ice. Which is a pity because the toppings and presentation was rather appealing.

Actually most of the service staff who served us were earnest and looked like they were trying their best, but there was some apparent disorganisation the restaurant should sort out soon.

Good food overall at Seorae, that is if you can overlook the hiccups, forgotten orders and slightly steep price.

Seorae Singapore
Plaza Singapura #02-21, 68 Orchard Road Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6238 8429
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Sun – Thurs), 11am – 11pm (Fri – Sat)

Other Related Entries
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The Gogi (Alexandra Central)
Twins Korean Chicken (Tanjong Pagar)

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“The Korean teacher says Bongchu Jjimdak is better,” which was why we made our way to this jjimdak restaurant. Better than which one – she didn’t announce, but we assumed it is the popular Andong Zzimdak (with the ‘Z’). Even my tour guide says so “Bongchu”.

Andong jjimdak is a chicken dish mixed with vegetables marinated in a ganjang Korean soy sauce based sauce, originated from Andong City. The name literally means “Andong’s steamed chicken.”

To make things a little more complicated, this restaurant was first called Andong Jjim-Dak when it first started in 2000 at DaeHak-ro, but was forced to change its name to “Bongchu”.

The menu is lean and simple – Braised Chicken is sizes of large (39,000 Won for 4 pax SGD$46), medium (31,000 Won, SGD$37) and small (22,000 Won, SGD$26). The version without bones cos 2,000 Won extra for each sizing.

Ah-huh, the entire restaurant serves just this one dish – jjimdak with dong chi mee cold radish kimchi as accompaniment.

After about a 10 minutes wait, the ENORMOUS white plate of pre-cooked braised chicken, mushroom, soft potatoes, sweet carrots and sweet potato noodles arrived in this dark gooey sauce of spicy peppers and soy. Talk about having this dish during winter.

A pair of scissors would be presented to cut up the meat and noodles into biteable portions.

My favourite component was the flat translucent cellophane-like sweet potato noodles – slippery, smooth and flavoursome after absorbing the scrumptious sauce.

Comparing to the other brand, this sauce comes across being lighter, cleaner and less spicy (not saying it is not, but at least it was not that tongue-scorching.)

One who has lower tolerance for spice and wants to appreciate more of the chicken flavour would appreciate Bongchu better.

While we initially said “So big, cannot finish,” those words were taken back after a few minutes. Just couldn’t stop slurping and slurping.

It was not THAT easy to find Bongchu Jjimdak at Meyong-dong. We asked the tourist information centre who gave a prompt response “Turn right, turn left, walk, its above Innisfree.” (We searched Google Maps which gave us Andong instead.)

Bongchu Jjimdak 봉추찜닭
33-9, Myeong-dong 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm
http://www.bongchuglobal.com

Other Related Entries
Myeongdong Kyoja (Seoul)
Korea Samgyetang (Seoul)
Frank’s (Seoul)
O’sulloc Tea House (Seoul)
Line Friend Store & Café (Seoul)

The post Bongchu Jjimdak 봉추찜닭 – The Other Must Try Jjimdak Restaurant At Seoul appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Seoul] Kyochon is known as one of the best Korean Fried Chicken in South Korea, also known as the ‘Lee Min Ho’ chicken.

The Chimaek chain is hugely well-liked, with branches in the United States, China, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia… actually, BUT Singapore (Tell me when.)

It seems like Kyochon is chosen as the Best Chicken Restaurant by South Koreans for 13 consecutive years. Being endorsed by a Korean celebrity like Lee Min Ho helped propel its popularity.

Korean Fried Chicken has become a food phenomenal of sorts in many parts of Asia, with many Chimaek shops flourishing.

This can be attributed to Korean drama My Love From The Star, where lead characters Do Min-jun nor Chun Song-yi share their love over chicken and beer (maekju). After the drama series, many Chimaek shops literally ran out of chicken.

Kyochon Chicken… growth hormones, no drugs, use less batter and grease than other fried chicken brands, hand-cut their chicken wings, prepared fresh upon ordering, used chicken free of antibiotics and growth hormones.

The Kyochon in Seoul contains five types of fried chicken series – honey, signature soy garlic, red, fried and salsal, which is salad with rice. Price is about 15,000 Won (SGD$17.80) to 18,000 Won (SGD$22.30).

My lesson learnt is just order the Honey series because that seems well-received by many fans.

Had the Half & Half of signature and spicy flavour as I wanted to try a combination of both. The wait was about 20 minutes or so, as they are supposedly prepared upon order.

The Kyochon wings, drumettes and drumsticks came in a spicy, sticky sauce, absorbed into the crust. While that added licking-good flavours in the process, the pieces were somewhat soggy.

Less batter is used for frying, and thus the skin becomes more paper-thin and crisp.

There weren’t too many customers around, so I wondered. Most diners there were pairs of skinny girl friends who walloped plates of chicken, and the occasional drunk guy.

Not sure if it was because the branch (at Gangnam Sinsadong) I visit, the inner meat felt fairly greasy. So while Kyochon has a standard achieved, I couldn’t help thinking that some of the other brands I tried weren’t too bad in comparison. For example, Chicken Mania.

What is your favourite Korean Fried Chicken brand in Seoul?

Kyochon Chicken 교촌치킨
강남구 언주로172길 29 (압구정점) Ap kku jeong dong
How to get to this branch (though there many around): Walk down Apgujeong 50 Gil, look towards your right for a building with the word HOTEL on the side, turn into that lane. Walk further down, it should appear diagonally across the exit of the street.
Google Maps

Various locations within Seoul
http://www.kyochon.com (Korean language)

Other Related Entries
O’sulloc Tea House (Seoul)
Line Friend Store & Café (Seoul)
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Korea Samgyetang (Seoul)

The post Kyochon 교촌 – One Of The Best Korean Fried Chicken In Seoul (Maybe Everywhere Else) appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Seoul] While I have no idea who Miss Lee is, we went searching for her café 별다방미스리 at Myeongdong.

Apparently, this café is frequently featured in Korean TV programmes, and shot to fame after Yong-hwa from CNBLUE and SeoHyun of Girls’ Generation and TTS appeared on “We Got Married and ‘dated in the café’.

The friendly guide at Myeongdong’s information counter gave us specific instructions to which Innisfree to look out for (there must be a dozen in the area), “Look up and spot Miss Lee.”

The statue of Miss Lee was found in a side lane sitting on a bench next to a letter box, holding a DSLR camera, but she didn’t look too happy waiting for love.

Miss Lee Café’s interior did give a feeling of falling in love again, the high-school / uni type of love. Nothing older than that.

The walls were pasted with notes of dreams and wishes, some dropped on the floor, some hanging from a tree at the upper storey.

This café with much endorsement from Korean celebrities was unexpectedly quiet though.

Its menu comprises of some typical Korean dishes given a café twist. The best seller is the Byeoldabang’s memorial assorted box (6,500 Won, SGD$7.50), essentially a Dosirak set with sausage, egg, seaweed and kimchi.

DON’T call this a bento box. You are supposed to cover the metal lid, shake it till all the ingredients mix well together. Nothing much to expect, the taste is as what its components suggest.

Miss Lee also serves Korean-style desserts such as Soft Persimmon Girl with Sweet Red Bean Boy (5,300 Won, SGD$6.10) – that is REALLY the name, Assorted Traditional Korean Sweets (4,900 Won, SGD$5.60) and Homemade Sweet Jelly Red Bean Rice Cake (4,300 Won, SGD$5.00).

Miss Lee Café should appeal to those who enjoy a quiet time at school-love themed café, with simple no-fuss Korean fare and desserts. Or if you are a fan of the Korean celebrities who appeared here.

Miss Lee Café
199-1 Euljiro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Tel: +82-2-755-0939
Opening Hours: 10am – 11pm (Mon – Sun)
Google Maps

Insadong: 144, Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

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Hello Kitty Cafe (Seoul)

The post Miss Lee Café – The Korean Cafe For Dates and Written Dreams appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Seoul] Apparently, molecular Korean food is still considered a novel thing in Korea, and Jungsik 정식 is a frontrunner by taking traditional ingredients and serving them in a modern way.

Opened in 2009, Chef Jung Sik Yim’s restaurant specialised in this new style of Korean cuisine propelled its way to be the highest ranked restaurant in Korea on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, and its outpost at New York also quickly earned a Michelin star.

No mean feat.

For those who has a certain impression of Korean food that it is all about kimchi and barbecued meats, this restaurant may just blow you away.

The Jungsik building at Gangnam is divided into three stories – the lower floor with a bar concept, and the other two consist of the main restaurant and VIP rooms.

For a fine dining restaurant, prices are considered value for its buck when compared to its equivalent in America, European or Singapore.

You can choose between a 4 or 5 course Choice Lunch (40,000 Won SGD$46, 80,000 Won SGD$92), 8 course Tasting Lunch (150,000 Won, SGD$173), 5 course Choice Dinner (120,000 Won, SGD$138), or Tasting Dinner (180,000 Won, SGD$208).

I ordered a 5-course which included an appetizer, rice dish, sea item, land item and sweet dessert. More than half can be considered remarkable, some I thought were almost faultless.

The banchan-inspired appetizers already stole my heart away.

These cute little items of mini-rice ‘bowls’, egg pudding with asparagus, smoked salmon with kimchi, smoked beef sticks encapsulated some of Korea’s iconic dishes. I said “So fanta-bulous” and that was only the start. (Note: The accent of the server was slightly thick, so I could jot down some ingredients wrongly.)

The standout dish for me was the Octopus – slow-cooked so it was elastic yet tender, deep fried till lightly crisp.

I couldn’t imagine that one day I was say “That octopus had a great texture”, because I had so many rubbery ones, and you know this octopus must had a good swim.

Another worthy appetizer was the Truffle Egg, mixed with white kimchi, pan-fried mushrooms and covered in truffle parmesan foam. When you mix the dish up and shove a spoonful in your mouth, the mingling of truffle aroma and creamy textures could send you on a gastronomical high.

Both the Uni Sea Urchin and Baby Octopus Rice Bowls had its strength, the former velvety smooth and rich, the latter savoury-tasty on every bite.

A shocker dessert was the Dolhareubang. You may find this ‘stone grandpa’ figure familiar, especially if you have been to Jeju Island. It is said to symbolise fertility?? (Nevermind if it looks like a male anatomical part. Oppsie.)

This is indeed a piece of art – green tea mousse and peanut ganche, smothered in black sesame butter and served with black sesame sponge cake and milk sherbet. Didn’t taste bad at all.

An exceptional meal at Jungsik. Probably one of the best fine dining restaurants in Korea, cleverly incorporates Korean cultures and taste into the menu. Yes, this is a dessert. A green tea mousse cake. It looks like a dolharbang statue, that I seen at Jeju Island. Em, yup. They represent protection and fertility. Now that I just ate one up…

A video posted by Daniel's Food Diary (@danielfooddiary) on Jan 2, 2016 at 8:10pm PST

After trying out a few of Seoul’s highly acclaimed restaurants, I thought that Jungsik was a one to beat with all rounded innovative dishes influenced by Korean culture, sincere service and surprisingly not that unfriendly to the wallet. Quite amazing.

Jungsik 정식
11 Seolleungro, 158 Gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
서울특별시 강남구 선릉로 158길 11 [지도보기]
Tel: +82 2 517 4654
www.jungsik.kr/seoul
Opening Hours: Lunch 12pm Last Order 2pm, Dinner 5:30pm Last order 9pm
Google Maps

Other Related Entries
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2015

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[Seoul] Dining at upscale Korean restaurant La Yeon which serves the traditional cuisine of ‘hansik’, may make you feel like Korean royalty. The food is that remarkable.

Many fine dining restaurants are focused on European, molecular styles of cooking. Finding one which serves Korean Haute Cuisine, also capturing the elegance and dignity of traditional Korean cuisine is invigorating.

La Yeon is found on the 23rd level of The Shilla Hotel (people may be familiar with their duty free shops).

Though recently opened in 2013, the restaurant headed by Head Chef Kim Sung Il swiftly earned a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, also noted as “The One To Watch”.

The view up there is spectacular, with a sight of its surrounding buildings and downtown Seoul, since the hotel is on a hill. (My little recommendation would be to actually visit the washroom, which should promise a spectacle in terms of scenery-viewing.)

La Yeon offers four different set menus, each concluding in dessert and Korean tea, and with optional wine pairings – The Propriety (98,000 Won, SGD$112), La Yeon (170,000 Won, SGD$195) for lunch, and The Feast (150,000 Won, SGD$171), Shilla (230,000 Won, SGD$264) for dinner.

The thorough and filling Propriety menu featured a Welcome Dish of Seaweed crackers and red date chips, Chilled Seafood Salad, Sauteed Dish, Char-grilled Beef Sirloin or Braised Korean Beef Ribs, Hot Pot Rice with Vegetables and Abalone, and a Dessert.

I ordered the main of Thin Slices of Korean Beef Marinated in Soy Sauce (additional 30,000 Won, SGD$34). Without exaggerating, this is one of the best Korean AND beef dish I ever had.

Every piece of the beef true to its name, thinly-sliced, delicate yet not lacking the bite beef should have. The meats are mildly marinated, subtle but still flavoursome. While the dish looked dry on its appearance, there was no shortage of succulence.

I must have let out an “OMG” when I first took a bite of the Braised Korean Beef Ribs, the allowing the piece to linger in the mouth, while relishing its softness of the texture, and leniently sweet sauce.

A Bibimbap is a typical dish found in a Korean restaurant, but La Yeon’s version brings it several levels up with the incorporation of abalone – why was that abalone so incredibly soft and pleasantly chewy. Like nothing I ever had.

Its accompanying side dishes of pear kimchi, crispy anchovies and spinach miso were all strong in their own ways. I can imagine the past Korean emperors craving for this.

Most of us would have impressions of Korean dishes which are robust, rich and marinated with excessive flavours. La Yeon goes quite the opposite way, subtle and not losing its focus.

On the flipside, in a culinary world where presentation strikes a strong impression, some may find the dishes plain, not fanciful enough.

Many of the dishes were presented simply in elegant (and probably expensive) tableware, without the elaborated plating one would expect from a fine dining restaurant.

Look beyond that, and let the quality of the food truly do its talking.

La Yeon
Hotel Shilla, 249 Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul 100-856
Tel: +82 2 2233 3131
http://www.shilla.net/seoul/dining/index.do
Google Maps

Other Related Entries
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2015
Jungsik (Seoul)

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[Seoul] While Dongdaemun Market has been popular with tourists for Korean local street food and cheap fashion buys, but you can also take about a kilometre walk down to Gwangjang Market – one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul.

Gwangjang Market is established way back in 1905, considered one of Korea’s largest traditional markets.

If you have craving for authentic Korean street food, then look no further.

When I stepped into the very entrance and walked for a few metres, you could see that it contains lanes after lanes of stalls selling Bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), Jeon (fried pancakes), Bibimbap (mixed rice), Hotteok (pancakes with brown sugar filling), Tteokbokki (stir fried rice cakes), Yukhoe (raw steak tartare), Sashimi, best eaten with some Makgeolli (rice liquor).

The other parts of the market also sell clothing, silk items, bedding goods, hanbok, kitchenware, supposedly at wholesale retail prices.

While there are parts of the market that are sparsely occupied, near the centre is the Jeon Alley where most of the crowd and action are.

The alley runs longitudinally, split into two lanes, containing no less than 10 stalls selling similar thing – Jeon (can be done as Jijim or Jijimgae).

Some stalls were so popular that there were at least 10 people in line, braving the smell of grease to get a Korean pancake deep fried in oil. Each cost about 4,000 – 5,000 Won.

Ajummas were making and cooking the mung bean pancakes in clock-work style as they mixed the flour with ingredients such as mung bean, vegetables such as leeks and green onions, and seafood or meat.

So warning, it can get VERY crowded that you may not have space to walk freely.

Live octopus, if you are up to it too.

Gwangjang Market 광장시장
88, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 서울특별시 종로구 창경궁로 88 (예지동)
Opening Hours
Google Maps 廣藏市場 광장시장
General stores: 8:30am – 6:00pm
Restaurants: 8:30am -11:00pm
Clothing stores: 9pm – 10am next day

www.kwangjangmarket.co.kr (Korean only)

Directions for subway: Jongno 5-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 1), Exit 8.
Euljiro 4-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 2 & 5), Exit 4

Other Related Entries
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Korea Samgyetang (Seoul)
Bongchu Jjimdak (Seoul)
Kyochon Chicken (Seoul)
Hello Kitty Cafe (Seoul)

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Shortly after the “Better Than Boyfriend” Churro101 came to Singapore at Bugis Plus, the Korean (food) wave continues to hit our shores with the introduction of Mr Churro. (Read: 10 Best Churros In Singapore)

With a total of 18 outlets in Korea, Mr Churro calls itself “an artisanal churros kiosk producing delectable churros with the best ingredients”, now opened as a takeaway kiosk at Orchard ION Basement 4.

The churros come in many different shapes, some in over-the-top fashion – curved, lengthy, or a few sticking out of a softserve cup. As if just one is not enough.

Mr Churro offers a 50 cm long (that is 19.7 inches long) Original Churro ($4.50), $0.50 for additional dips in flavours such as Blueberry, Dark Chocolate, Milk Custard.

Unique items include the Nutty Churro ($5.90), Ice Cream Churro ($6.50) with 2 flavours: Banana Milk and Vanilla and Filler Churro ($4.90) with Chocolate Custard and Milk Custard.

Other than Churros, Banana Milk or Vanilla Ice Cream ($3.50), Ade Green Grape ($3.50) and Frappe ($5.50) are available.

Churros are baked on the spot upon request. Waiting time for us was 10-15 minutes on a non-peak timing.

Each churro is deep fried to give it a golden brown crust, before dusting it with a specific ratio of sugar and cinnamon.

Not too sweet and overwhelming, with the right amount of cinnamon. We liked it.

The lengthy Original Churro cost $4.50 here, almost twice the price of what it would have cost back in Korea (KRW 2000, approx SGD$2.40).

Our favourite was the Banana Milk Ice Cream Churro ($6.50), with smoothly rich and milky milk softserve, with a lingering taste of bananas which reminded us of the Korean drink 바나나우유 (pronounced as ‘Ba-na-na ooo-you’).

The oats added some crunch, reminding us of a daily milk with cereal breakfast. Coupled with 4 sticks of churros sticking out, this is like a hearty ‘meal’.

The Nutty Churro ($5.90) came in a kacang-puteh look-alike takeaway cup – crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, decent chocolate sauce, but the added almond flakes and peanuts did little to enhance the taste.

The Chocolate Custard filled Churro ($4.90) looked similar to its competitor, though paled in comparison – less chocolatey, more expensive, not as colourful and varied.

There were also some consistency issues, with varying standards amongst those we tried. Some more crispy, some doughy.

And so yes, the boyfriend wins Mr Churro.

Our honest opinion? The local customers are not into churros as much as the Koreans, and this will just be another passing fad, rather than something consumers will order on a regular basis.

What 2015 taught us is: trends are getting shorter, and Mr Churro will need to churn out something more substantial to stand the test of time.

Mr Churro SG
ION Orchard #B4-61, 2 Orchard Turn Singapore 238801 (Orchard MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/MrChurroSG

Other Related Entries
10 Best Churros In Singapore
15 Soft Serves & Frozen Yogurt In Singapore
Churro101 (Bugis Plus)
AmaSoy (Ion Orchard)
Sweet Monster (Plaza Singapura)

* Written by Daniel’s Food Diary Cafe Correspondent Nicholas Tan @stormscape. Additional input by @DanielFoodDiary

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Korean BBQ, bingsu, Andong Jjimdak, Korean fried chicken, churros, softserve, candy floss coffee … the Korean wave is reaching us strong and fierce all right.

Some sumptuously tasty, some just pure photogenic. These are 20 Korean famous food brands that reached Singapore, most brought in by a franchise model.

My friend had a rude shock when he learnt that 4 Fingers is not a Korean brand “WHAT?!”, and interesting to note that most of the Korean Bingsu shop in Singapore are operated by Koreans who stay and work here, or local (not so much of a franchise model).

20 Popular Korean Restaurants & Cafes That Arrived In Singapore. The Year Of K-Food

Masizzim Singapore
313 Somerset #B3-02 (next to Chir Chir) 313 Orchard Rd Singapore 238895 (Somerset MRT)
Tel: +65 6509 5808
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (last order 9:30pm), 11am – 11pm (last order 10:30pm)

Masizzim (pronounced ma-see-zim, hard to spell, I know) is the combination of two Korean words – ‘masi’ which is short for ‘delicious’ and ‘jjim’ for stew.

The hip casual restaurant serves modern dishes at quite affordable rates friendly to the pocket. Expect signature stews, rice balls, pancakes and kimchi fried rice. Great for group outings. (Read: Masizzim Singapore 313 Somerset)

Andong Zzimdak
Raffles City Shopping Centre B1-44F, 252 North Bridge Road Singapore 179103 (City Hall MRT)
Tel: +65 6533 3951
Opening Hours: 11.30 am – 10 pm Daily

THIS IS HUGE, and SPICY. Please get some friends to share. Andong Jjimdak (the dish) is a seasoned and simmered chicken dish that originated in Gyeongsangbukdo, Andong. You may have seen Andong Zzimdak (the restaurant brand) at Myeong-dong where there are several other competing shops.

This popular Korean dish consists of chopped chicken parts, potatoes, onions, vegetables and sweet potato noodles, mixed with a spicy soy-based sauce and then simmered. Fresh green chili pepper called “Cheongyang gochu” is added to provide that distinct spiciness. (Read: Andong Zzimdak Raffles City)

Vatos Urban Tacos
36 Beach Road Singapore 189767
Tel: +65 6385 6010
Opening Hours: 11:30 – 11pm (Mon – Thurs), 11:30pm – 1pm

When one thinks of Korean cuisine, Kimchi Carnitas Fries and Tacos rarely come to mind, unless you are talking about Korean restaurant chain Vatos Urban Tacos. It was once termed by CNN as “the hottest new restaurant in Seoul”.

Other than the Kimchi Carnitas Fries, other recommended items include Galbi Short Rib Tacos (marinated short rib, ssamjang aioli, Asian slaw, cilantro, chopped onions, and roasted sesame seeds on a handmade tortilla) and Mango Prawn Quesadillas (chipotle marinated prawn flash fried and topped with cilantro lime crema and fresh mango salsa).

Banana Tree Singapore
26 Keong Saik Road Singapore 089133
Opening Hours: 11am – 9pm (Tues-Sat), 12pm – 7pm (Sun), Closed Mon

The arrival of this café has excited Korean pop culture lovers, café hoppers and food instagrammers, because it is THE Banana Tree café.

The South Korean café chain is popular for its banana theme decorations, yellow and white clean look, and pretty potted plant desserts. This is one of those days that you have coffee with cotton candy. How can? But works for pictures. Chio mah! (Read: Banana Tree Keong Siak)

Caffebene Singapore
Vivocity, 1 Harbourfront Walk #02-150 Singapore 098585 (between TCC and Sushi Tei)
Opening Hours: 8am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

The popular Caffebene, voted the best coffee brand in Korea has opened its first Singapore outlet at Vivocity.

Similar to other outlets around the world, there is that iconic Caffebene clock, indoor tree and a vintage touch in its interior. (Read: Caffebene Singapore Vivocity)

Paris Baguette Singapore
JEM #02-20, Tampines Mall #01-32, Bugis Junction B1-24/25, One Raffles Place basement, Changi Airport T2 Level 1 Public Area.

If you are thinking this is some French brand, nope. This chain is actually the top Korean bakery, receiving “constant love” for its freshly baked bread, cakes, sandwiches, desserts and brunch items.

It has over 3500 stores in Korea, US and China. None in Paris though.

The cakes we try – a strawberry cream Mille-Feuille, cute Wahaha Chocolate Cake, and Peach Tart (between $6.50 and $8.50), are pretty to look at, but not so pretty to eat. Some dry, some lacking that delicate touch. (Read: Paris Baguette Wisma Atria)

Tom N Toms
12 Gopeng Street #01-12 Icon Village Singapore 078877
Tel: +65 6225 6313

Tom N Toms 탐엔탐스커피 must be one of Korean’s largest café chains that can found internationally. It is also one of the earliest Korean café to set food in Singapore. Remember the ones at Far East Plaza and Vivocity? Unfortunately, the Korean fever was not waving that hard then.

Munch on toast, pretzels, pastries and bingsu – with flavours of Green Tea and Red Bean ($11.90), Mango ($10.90), Taro ($9.90), Yogurt Cheesecake ($12.90) and Milk Tea ($10.90). A favourite venue for CBD executive and groups of students for discussions and book-mugging. Free WIFI and quiet sitting area.

Churro101 Singapore
201 Victoria Street #04-01 Bugis Plus Singapore 188067 (Bugis MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm Daily

Churro101 has gained a huge fan base since its opening in 2011. Some of its fans include top K-pop groups likes Girls’ Generation, F(x), Miss A and Girls’ Days.

They say their churros are “Better than a boyfriend”. Whatever that means. The shop has adopted a show kitchen concept where people get to see how the churros are being prepared, making the process more visual and engaging. Long queues during opening days. Not anymore. (Read: Churro101 Bugis Plus)

Mr Churro
ION Orchard #B4-61, 2 Orchard Turn Singapore 238801 (Orchard MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

With a total of 18 outlets in Korea, Mr Churro calls itself “an artisanal churros kiosk producing delectable churros with the best ingredients”, now opened as a takeaway kiosk at Orchard ION Basement 4.

The churros come in many different shapes, some in over-the-top fashion – curved, lengthy, or a few sticking out of a softserve cup. As if just one is not enough. (Read: Mr Churro Singapore ION Orchard)

Milkcow
The Cathay #01-03, Velocity Novena #01-19, The Star Vista #B1-06, Bugis Juntion #B1-K3, Tampines 1 #B1-K17, Jurong IMM #01-K06, Jurong Point #B1 – 27

The Korean organic soft serve ice cream. Milk Cow’s soft serves are made from organic milk from grass-fed cow free of preservatives.

The popular flavours include the Milk Cube ($5.90) added with organic natural honey comb, Snow Drop ($5.90) which has an instagram-worthy cotton candy topping (which really ranges in portion), Milky Shot ($6.50) with a single shot of espresso, and Mocao Dream ($6.50) with handcrafted macaron and almond flakes. Warning: Melts super fast in this weather, even inside the malls. (Read: Milk Cow The Cathay)

Sweet Monster Singapore
Plaza Singapura, #B2-49, Singapore 238839 (Dhoby Ghaut MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

Korean franchise Sweet Monster ate its way into Singapore, known for its softserve covered with crispy popcorn, and landed a spot at Plaza Singapura as a takeaway kiosk.

Their signature Mix Flavour Popcorn Ice Cream ($6.80) comes with both cheese and caramel flavoured popcorns. Only available in one cup size (highly recommended for sharing because it is very sweet), the height of the ice cream could vary depending on the skill of the scooper. (The popcorn a bit lao long). (Read: Sweet Monster Plaza Singapura)

Vons Chicken
321 Clementi, 321 Clementi Avenue 3, #02- 09, Singapore 129905 (Clementi MRT)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

Popular Korean Fried Chicken, Vons Chicken, with more than 150 outlets worldwide (USA, China, Australia etc) since 1989 had opened their first outlet in Singapore at 321 Clementi Ave 3. The signature dish is their 4pcs Golden Wings – Soy Garlic ($5.40), only available as a fried option.

You can get the other flavours in 2 forms – Fried or Oven Roasted in options of 4pcs Wings & Drums ($5.40), 5 pcs Boneless ($5.90) and 2pcs Drumsticks ($7.20). Set meals with regular fries and drinks at an additional $2.50. Very value-for-money. (Read: Vons Chicken Clementi)

Chir Chir 치르치르
313@somerset #B3-04/05/06, Singapore 238895
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Thurs, Sun), 11am – 11pm (Fri-Sat)

Chir Chir Fusion Chicken Factory is a popular Korean restaurant chain specialising in deep fried Korean style chicken and other freshly cooked chicken dishes such as Spicy BBQ Roasted Chicken, Garlic Roasted Chicken and Crispy Fried Tenders.

Not forgetting the Snow Nest with deep fried chicken tenders swimming in a pool of rich creamy white sauce, a scoop of sweet salad hidden below. Diet plans have to step aside. (Read: Chir Chir 313 @ Somerset)

NeNe Chicken
*Scape 2 Orchard Link #02-39 Singapore 237978
Tel: +65 6509 0907
Opening Hours: 11am-10pm, last order 9:15pm daily (Mon-Thurs, Sun), 11am – 11pm last order 10:15pm (Fri, Sat)
Other branches at Star Vista, Bedok Mall, The Seletar Mall, Eastpoint Mall, Hougang Mall

I know everyone kind of jokes about their popcorn chicken – The NeNe Pop. Like, “Can I have two Nene Pops, please” can sound so wrong.

What I liked about NeNe was that despite the chicken being coated with rich sauce, the skin and batter still remains rather crisp. Though sometimes I had disappointing ones – mid-soggy and not so piping hot as it should had been. (Read: NeNe Chicken Scape)

Bonchon Chicken 본촌치킨
201 Victoria Street, #01-11 Bugis+ (former Illuma, opposite Bugis MRT), Singapore 188067, Tel: +65 6884 4768
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 11:0pm

Bonchon Chicken is enjoying greater fame overseas than our Singapore unit. Unfortunately. Service (or the lack of) and long waiting times were its greatest liability here.

Their chicken is deep fried twice – so the skin becomes crunchier and the meat less greasy when compared to the usual American fast food fried chicken. It feels kind of pricey though.

The skin comes off in pieces, with the sauces nicely enveloping it. The meat not quite like the usual, is tasty and not too oily. Plus point, it didn’t leave much of a stain on your fingers even if we used hands directly.

Bornga
VivoCity, #02-123/124, 1 Harbourfront Avenue, Singapore 098585. Tel: +65 6376 8268
The Star Vista, #02-24, 1 Vista Exchange Green, Singapore 138617. Tel: +65 6694 4696
Opening Hours: 11:30am to 10.00pm Daily

This is Korea’s leading BBQ restaurant, led by famous celebrity chef Jon Won Paik, and this restaurant franchise has more than 30 outlets across Korea, the US, China and Indonesia.

Chef Jon Won Paik wanted to create a new style of BBQ meat that could retain the natural colours and taste, unlike many other Korean style meat which are dark in colour due to over marinating. The result is the signature and patented Woo Sam Gyup – thinly sliced beef brisket dressed a special sauce. Like it, but expensive. (Read: Bornga Vivocity)

Yoogane Singapore
200 Victoria Street, Bugis Junction #02-47/48 Singapore 188021 (Bugis MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm

Yoogane (요가네 pronounced yoo-ga-nay is a chicken galbi restaurant from Busan Korea. It is established in 1981, is quite a famous ‘Dakgalbi’ restaurant back home – selling tender chicken meat in a spicy sauce marinate.

Fans who braved queues said that it tasted almost the same, just perhaps less in portions to the Korean counterpart. (Read: Yoogane Singapore Bugis Junction)

J-Story
NEUE B2-53 Capitol Piazza, 15 Stamford Road, Singapore 178906
Tel: +65 6384 1020

J-Story is better known as Juk Story back home, known for its Teuk Jeonbok Juk (Rice Porridge with Abalone).

Other than 8 types of porridge sold, including Abalone ($12.90), Ginseng & Chicken ($8.90), Crab ($12.90), and Mushroom & Vegetable ($8.90), the ‘health’ element is not too apparent on the menu. (Read: J-Story Capitol Piazza)

Chef’s Noodle
Habourfront Centre, 1 Maritime Square, #01-99/100, Singapore 099253 (Harbourfront MRT)
Tel: +65 6271 3033
Jurong Point Shopping Centre, 63 Jurong West Central 3, #B1-45/46, Singapore 648331 (Boon Lay MRT)
Tel: +65 6686 3108
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:00pm

The food is modernised by Korean Celebrity Chef Choi In Sun (sorry but I do not know who he is), known for his Korean food show “The Starking Series” and fedora hats. The signature is a Chef’s Guksoo which is kind of ramyun meets ramen, yet with its own unique quality.

The broth is an off-white light savoury- sweet flavoured beef broth, spicy but not the type of intense Korean-spicy you would have otherwise expected, and topped with stewed pork bulgogi, vegetables, and a signature rectangular egg-roll. Which is really like the sweet Japanese tamago found on sushi. (Read: Chef’s Noodle Harbourfront)

Bibigo
252 North Bridge Road, #B1-74 Raffles City Shopping Centre, Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 6336 4745
Suntec City Mall #B1-107, 3 Temasek Boulevard Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 65 6338 5809

The brand “Bibigo” is a Korean-English portmanteau from Korean bi-bi-da, to mix, and English, to-go, serving modern Korean dishes.

They are known for their Hot Stone Bibimbap, Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Stew) and Mandoo (Dumplings) – tasting healthier than the usual Korean restaurants though. You may have seen a PSY standee outside their restaurant.

What is your favourite? And which brand do you hope to see come to our sunny shores?
Other Related Entries
34 Places To Get Korean Bingsu In Singapore
10 Best Korean Cafes In Singapore
16 Best Korean Fried Chicken In Singapore
Masizzim Singapore (313 Somerset)
Vons Chicken (Clementi)

* Compiled by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary . Photos partly by Nicholas Tan @stormscape.

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Ice Lab has opened with a Big Bang (pun unintended) specialising in Bingsu (more), churros (more more) and toast. It took over House of Robert Timms at Orchard Shopping Centre,

This Ice Lab is opened by none other than Korean Comedian Shin Jung-Hwan – famous for his comic dance and silly acts. This marks his first venture overseas.

Doesn’t matter Shin-who, the café is filled with video clips of Korean celebrities such as Running Man cast Haha, Gary and Kim Jong Kook, and 15 opening bouquets with Korean congratulatory messages written on them – enough to send non-Shin fans for a look.

We were impressed with the 1.5 storeys high, 80 seating capacity, snow making machine that created falling snow in the middle of a round table, 6 bingsu making machines to make 6 different flavours of bingsu (each machine is a 5 figure sum) and a clean, white and spacious interior.

Jinjja extravagant, and jinjja white.

Korean Bingsu competition will be stiff with Nunsaram at Orchard Central, O’ma Spoon Korean Dessert Cafe at 313 Somerset, and Ice Lab at Orchard Shopping Centre, all 3 buildings right next to one another.

As for churros, there are Churros Factory at Orchard Central, ‘Better Than Boyfriend’ Churro101 at 313@Somerset and Ice Lab at Orchard Shopping Centre.

Same same, close proximity, tough fight.

The menu features 6 flavours of Bingsu in 2 sizes – Small ($15.30 – $19.30) and Large at an additional $4.

Churros are available at $4.30 with 6 different sauce dips ($1.20) – choco, white choc, honey, cream cheese, caramel, blueberry jam.

Something different will be the Korean Toast ($8.50) and Matang ($13.30) with sweet potato drenched in honey and nuts.

Our favourite was the Green Tea Bingsoo ($17.20 for small, $21.20 for large) with fine shaved milk topped with a scoop of green tea ice cream, azuki beans, sunflower seeds and cashew nuts.

To increase efficiency, each Bingsu machine produced one Bingsu flavour with a specific proportion mixture for the shavings, so each snowflake is slightly different from one another.

The snowflake shavings were refined, rich, milky, slightly on the sweeter side which could overpower the green tea taste at times. Liked the contrast in texture from the nuts and seeds though.

Being the most expensive Bingsu on the list, the Mango Bingsoo ($19.30 for small, $23.30 for large) could be a tad costly compared to other cafes. The milk shavings were less milky and melted rather quickly.

Toppings were generous with large chunks of sweet mango, kiwi and a scoop of mango ice cream with a refreshing take on the usual milk bingsu.

Still, the mango syrup added was a tad sweet for our liking.

We enjoyed the Churros ($4.30) served in a cooking pan. Very crispy and golden brown on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with the right amount of sugar and cinnamon. Mashisoyo!

The ambience was young and hipster, with K-pop music playing in the background (fan girls at our neighbouring table screaming at each song) and handsome/ pretty service crews in white lab coats which kind of reminded me of the Running Man characters.

Except, there is no name tag pasted on it.

The execution of a lab wasn’t as distinct, except for the lab coats. But well… let the experiment begins! Hwaiting!

Ice Lab
Orchard Shopping Centre, 321 Orchard Road #01-01/02, Singapore 238866 (Somerset MRT)
Opening Hours: 1:30pm – 1am (Mon-Thu), 10am – 1am (Fri-Sun)

Other Related Entries
34 Places To Get Korean Bingsu In Singapore
Churro101 (Bugis Plus)
O’ma Spoon Korean Dessert Cafe (313 Somerset)
Choo Choo Chicken (Orchard Cineleisure)
Nunsaram (Orchard Central)

* Written by Daniel’s Food Diary Cafe Correspondent Nicholas Tan @stormscape

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[Seoul] Having Korean BBQ is one thing, having it in Seoul is another. I was recommended to go to Maple Tree House 단풍나무집, and it wasn’t disappointing at all, at least to the tourists like me.

Maple Tree House indeed started as a restaurant in a small house at the scenic Samchong-dong, and has opened branches at Myeongdong, Itaewon and Gangnam.

It presents as traditional Korean dining concept in a modern setting. Plus point for tourists, the menu and websites are both in English, with directions and photos. Comprehensive.

Actually, some friends never got about the fuss about Korean BBQ, and I was never quite over the moon myself. BUT, Maple Tree House somehow managed to bring it a level up, and I really won’t mind coming back for seconds.

The answer to what makes them unique – their premium meats, said to be “treated with utmost respect”.

Selection include beef items such as Hanu Deungsim (rib-eye steak), Yangnyeom-galbi Kkotsal (marinated bottom sirloin triangle), Danpung Bulgogi, Usamgyeop (grilled beef loin); Jeju pork belly, neck and marinated black pork collar (16,900 – 17,900 Won for 150g); special menu of French Rack Lamb Chops (18,900 Won for 150g), USDA Prime Ribeye (29,000 Won) and Grilled Jumbo Prawns (29,000 Won).

As an indication, 10000 South Korean Won is about SGD$11.40, USD$8.20.
 

The service staff was professional, attempting to explain in English as she set up the grill with hot charcoal.

As we watched the Korean Jeju Black Pork Collar being barbecued, the sizzling sounds and slight-charred appearance with oil bubbles got us all super piped up.

The waitress grilled the meats, cut it up and served proficiently like she has been doing this for years, yet in an ajumma fashion like a mother fussing over her children.

The pork was tasty and tender, with the right amount of fats, best eaten with a small clove of garlic sandwiched between fermented sesame leaves.

After which, the grill covering was immediately changed, and we wondered why.

“Different meat, different grill.”

The Beef Short Plate – delectably thin short-plate brisket slices coated in a faint sweet marinate; and Grilled crunchy Jumbo Prawns were both prepared one after one another, using different types of grill, most suitable for the meals to be cooked.

The exhaust system seemed to be working sound, as the environment was clean, orderly and not-smoky. Hurray for those who intend to further their shopping without smelling like barbecued meals.

Maple Tree House
Myeong-Dong
B1F, 8-1, Myeong-dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Tel. 02-771-9700
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:30pm

Gangnam
BF1 Mokwha Milart, 113 Teheran-ro, Gang nam gu, Seoul
Tel: 02-569-8200
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:30pm (Closed Sun)

Itaewon
Hamilton Hotel 2F, 116-1 Itaewon-ro 27ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Tel: 02-790-7977
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:30pm (Sun – Thurs), 11:30am – 12am (Fri – Sat)

129-24 Samchong-dong, Seoul
Tel: 02-730-7461
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:30pm

Other Related Entries
Gwang Jang Market (Seoul)
Myeongdong Kyoja (Seoul)
Korea Samgyetang (Seoul)
O’sulloc Tea House (Seoul)
Line Friend Store & Café (Seoul)

The post Maple Tree House – Awesome Korean BBQ At Myeongdong, Itaewon, Gangnam, Samchong appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Before you go “These are Korean stews in a Japanese restaurant?” feeling immaterially confused, Tokyo Sundubu IS a chain from Japan opened at Suntec’s City Eat At Seven.

Eat At Seven which happens to be backed up by airline ANA, comprises of other Japanese restaurant concepts such as Maguro Donya Miuramisakikou Sushi & Dining , Menya Takeichi, and Nigiro Café.

Sundubu is a type of Korean jjigae featuring tofu cooked with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meat and seafood.

The dish gained popularity after a restaurant specializing in Sundubu opened in Los Angeles by a Korean immigrant.

Just treat this like a fusion of Japanese and Korean cultures.

There are a total of 24 Sundubu types offered here, from Japanese Oyster, 5-Vege, Kimchi, Seafood, Asari Clam, Kuro-Buta, Miso Butter, Cheese to Curry. Each Sundubu bowl comes with ingredients of house-made Tofu, Egg, Spring Onions, Asari Clam,

The price ranges from $15 to $30, which is complemented with a bowl of rice and namuru (vegetable side dish).

Three bases are available, of which the Japanese Miso and Salt & Ginger are spicy.

For a start, I would recommend a Level 2 “Japan Standard” of spiciness. This goes up to Level 4 of “Extra Spicy”.

I got a Health and Beauty Sundubu ($18) Level 3 “Singapore Standard” with a miso base. This comes with extra pieces of chicken and a glob of “collagen” which you mix in while sizzling hot.

When it is rainy, this is the kind of food you can crave for.

Anyway, the gochujang and miso base probably covered up the collagen taste, but the house-made tofu which contained soy milk was incredibly tasty and smooth. This was the highlight of the entire bowl.

Compared to a usual jjigae which could have that one-dimensional taste at times, this Sundubu had many layers, and felt more comforting and heartening. Even a friend who usually refrain from gochujang-added dishes, gave this a thumbs up.

The spiciness was also more subtle instead of straight-on-fiery, such that the natural tastes of the ingredients still managed to shine through.

Thin and crisp style Korean Pancake “Chijimi” ($10 – $24), an Dak Galbi ($12) – spicy stir fried chicken are also available.

Japanese? Korean? Considered this the best of both worlds.

Tokyo Sundubu
3 Temasek Boulevard, #03-312, Suntec City Mall Tower 1, Eat At Seven, Singapore 038983 (Promenade MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm, 5:30pm – 10pm Daily

Other Related Entries
A Healthy Taste Of Miyzaki Food
Menya Takeichi (Suntec City)
Vatos Urban Tacos (Beach Road)
Seorae Singapore (Plaza Singapura)
Da Bang (Tanjong Pagar)

The post Tokyo Sundubu – Korean Stew With Collagen In A Japanese Restaurant appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.