Chef Jay Siaw loves Asian food and flies its flag as much as he can at 15 Stamford
by Alvin Leung, where he serves as resident chef. His penchant for fire and smoke is clear in his favourite places to eat at when he’s not in his white overalls. He selects four dining spots in South-east Asia for the culinary adventurer seeking a different kind of experience.
Peranakan Inn
There’s nothing more distinctively unique to Singapore than the Peranakan culture. Its cuisine is a beautiful medley of different colourful cultures, and each dish is bursting with rich, bold flavours. I particularly enjoy the ambience of Peranakan Inn that exudes an old-school charm.
Nan Hwa Chong Fish Head Steamboat
This oldest fish head steamboat restaurant in Singapore still serves the dish in a traditional charcoal pot, bringing you piping hot, bubbly goodness. While it is as comforting as it gets during rainy days (think sweater weather!), it is also undeniably satisfying eating this on a hot day and wiping sweat off your brow. The fish is fresh and the charcoal pot gives it an additional dimension of flavours.
Bahn Mi Phuong
Make your way to this little, unassuming stall in the old town of Hoi An in Vietnam and you will understand why there’s always a snaking queue outside. The loaf of bread is freshly made—crusty on the outside and airy, slightly chewy on the inside. Go for the smoked pork hock version, bursting with flavours from the fresh herbs and condiments. This is probably one of the best things S$2 could get you!
Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin
At the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, the one-Michelin-starred Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin offers fine Thai cuisine in an elegant, intimate setting for an experience not to be missed. Go for the “Create Your Own Journey” option where you get to be creative and pick whatever tickles your fancy.
