CHEN'S KITCHEN

Singapore's vibrant culinary scene welcomes CHEN'S KITCHEN, a distinguished Chinese restaurant that offers a unique and delightful dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Situated in the heart of Orchard Road at Paragon Shopping Centre, CHEN'S KITCHEN stands out in the diverse category of Chinese restaurants by artfully blending the bold and fiery flavors of Szechuan cuisine with the meticulous techniques and subtle nuances of Japanese culinary arts. This innovative approach, known as Chuka Ryori, promises a comforting yet refined dining experience that caters to a wide range of palates.

CHEN'S KITCHEN is conceived as a casual family-dining concept, providing a welcoming and relaxed environment for gatherings of all sizes. The restaurant's ambiance is contemporary and comfortable, featuring a mix of regular table settings and limited cozy booth seats, making it suitable for quick meals, family outings, and casual get-togethers. The design aesthetic avoids overly formal or overly casual vibes, striking a pleasant balance that encourages diners to feel at ease while enjoying high-quality food.

The culinary philosophy at CHEN'S KITCHEN revolves around presenting familiar Chinese dishes with a touch of finesse, elevating them through the integration of Japanese techniques. This results in a menu that is both accessible and exciting, offering a range of options from classic Szechuan staples to innovative creations exclusive to CHEN'S KITCHEN.

A standout signature dish, undoubtedly, is the Mapo Tofu. This iconic Szechuan dish, a testament to the restaurant's culinary heritage, is crafted with a harmonious blend of tingly-numb (麻), spicy (辣), hot (燙), fragrant (揚), crispy (酥), tender (嫩), fresh (鲜), and aromatic (香) elements, embodying the essence of Chuka Ryori. Variations of this beloved dish, including perhaps a decadent Black Mapo with diced Wagyu beef, might be exclusive to the Paragon outlet, offering a unique draw for those seeking an elevated experience.

Beyond the renowned Mapo Tofu, the menu at CHEN'S KITCHEN features a variety of thoughtfully prepared dishes. The XXL Szechwan La Zi Ji, an elevated take on the popular Szechuan Popcorn Chicken, showcases crispy karaage chicken pieces accompanied by soy puffs, garlic chips, cashews, aromatic spices, and dried chilies, delivering a bold flavor and irresistible crunch. Unlike traditional La Zi Ji, the use of chicken nugget-sized pieces provides a more substantial bite, while the addition of soy puffs introduces an interesting textural contrast.

Seafood lovers might be drawn to the Poached Fish Fillet in Golden Broth, a store-exclusive dish featuring chunky, moist fish fillets simmered in a rich broth made from Japanese pumpkin, complemented by mushrooms, asparagus, and a hint of sansho pepper for a subtle heat. Other enticing options include Chen's Pork Shumai, steamed dumplings filled with juicy minced pork and conpoy, topped with a touch of mala radish paste. While the mala flavor might be delicate, the plump texture of the shumai is noteworthy.

Vegetarian options are also available, such as the Szechwan French Beans & Mushrooms, wok-fried with minced pork and Szechuan spices, offering a flavorful and textural experience. For rice enthusiasts, the Szechwan Spiced Chahan with Sakura Shrimp presents a delightful fried rice dish with a prominent shrimp aroma and a non-greasy finish.

CHEN'S KITCHEN aims to provide a dining experience that is both satisfying and affordable. The pricing is considered reasonable, making it an attractive option for both quick meals and more leisurely family gatherings. This commitment to sustainable pricing without compromising on the quality of ingredients and the execution of flavors is a key aspect of the restaurant's appeal.

The service at CHEN'S KITCHEN is described as decent and friendly, with staff members like Jack being particularly helpful in offering personalized recommendations. Sharing dishes is encouraged, allowing diners to sample a wider variety of the bold and delicious flavors on offer.

While the flavors at CHEN'S KITCHEN are rooted in Szechuan cuisine, the adaptation to Japanese tastes means that the spice levels might be more approachable for a broader audience. Dishes like the poached fish fillet and La Zi Ji might not possess the intense numbing and spicy characteristics of traditional Szechuan fare, catering instead to a Chuka Szechwan Ryori profile that balances richness and subtlety.

CHEN'S KITCHEN represents an opportunity to experience the culinary artistry of Chef Chen Kentaro, renowned for his Michelin-starred Shisen Hanten, in a more accessible and casual setting. It bridges the gap between a high-end dining experience and everyday comfort food, offering a diverse menu that suits group dining and individual preferences alike.

For local users in Singapore seeking a Chinese restaurant that offers a unique blend of flavors, a comfortable ambiance, and affordable prices, CHEN'S KITCHEN at Paragon presents a compelling option. Whether you are a fan of spicy, umami-packed dishes or prefer comforting, home-style cuisine with a refined twist, CHEN'S KITCHEN is well worth a visit to explore the exciting intersection of Szechuan and Japanese culinary traditions.

Located at 290 Orchard Road, Paragon Shopping Centre #B1-43, Singapore 238859, CHEN'S KITCHEN welcomes diners from Monday to Sunday, 11 am to 9:30 pm. It is a place where bold flavors meet thoughtful preparation, promising a memorable dining experience for all who appreciate innovative and delicious Chinese cuisine.