AQUAMARINE

Marina Mandarin Singapore, Level 4, 6 Raffles Boulevard, S(039594) TEL: 6845 1111

This Halal-certified buffet restaurant is popular not only for its warm and welcoming vibe, but also for its variety of cuisines. They’re served in rotation—think themes like Peranakan and Malay Kampung—enough to excite diners who have a taste for the exotic. When the spotlight is on Peranakan fare, the ayam buah keluak is a must-try. Its piquant flavours pair well with the minty herb garnishes and spiciness of the nasi ulam istimewa. The restaurant’s Singapore-style chilli crab is a delightful interpretation that uses a soft-shell variety (flower crab) instead of the usual mud crab. It’s hard to restrict yourself to one cuisine, so start with your favourites and take note of the highlights. We recommend checking out the sushi bar, dipping into some Indian food, and assembling your own nyonya crabmeat popiah and kueh pie tee. Leave some space for the elaborate kueh section—the apom bokwa with pisang pengat is a delicious finale.