Taking a different approach to revolutionise dining of chinese cuisine at Vivocity, Mr Andrew Tjioe discarded the rich hues, mahogany round table tops, golden chandeliers for the pristine white interior, modern and minimalist look.
The Vibe Set against the glaring bright sunlight in colossal Vivocity mall, the restaurant which stands by the Waterfront facing Sentosa, can be easily missed. However, once the sky darkens in the evening, Signatures becomes a dazzling jewel to behold. Blessed with a panoramic sea view, the changing colours of the artificial waves-patterned ceilings illuminates it like a shining pearl in the dark ocean. The L-shaped main dining area features a mirror panel with lighted pebbles that also subtly changes colours in the evening. Those having a social gathering may want to book any of the two private rooms available.
The Food As the name Tung Lok Signatures suggests, this restaurant offers all your Tung Lok's favourites under one roof as well as new creations by Chef Li Ngai Man, who is a highly experienced chef from Hong Kong . The menu targets the mainstream shopping crowd and is comparatively budget-friendly.
The starters' menu features two dishes exclusive to Signatures. The Deep Fried Fresh Bamboo Fungus ($6+++), cripsy and addictive and also the Sichuan Zha Cha ($4+++), spicy and cruchy, works as excellent starters to whet up your appetite so much that you could be asking for another serving.
The Crispy Roast Pork Belly ($9+++) is not to be missed. Only 15 servings are prepared for each meal and what is so special is that it has to be roasted thrice to finally get a less fatty, tender yet crispy texture. Try the Barbecued Pork Shoulder ($16+++)which is tender and juicy, and the Deep Fried Coriander Cheese Balls ($14+++) stuffed with some chopped coriander and deep fried to a crunchy golden crust. Imagine it oozing out with warm cheese on your first bite,oh such pleasurable delight!
The Doubled Boiled Soup of Sea Treasures with Chinese Herbs ($28+++, 2 to 3 persons) boasts the sea whelk, cucumber, chicken feet and meat. Although valued for its nutrition value, those who prefer light clear soup may find it a tad too salty for their preference. The Steamed Layered Beancurd with Barbecued Pork, Mushrooms and Gingko ($20+++), an interesting showpiece, is a plate of expertly sliced beancurd arranged in a circular manner. It is an appropriate dish for those preferring a more bland and healthy meal.
To indulge, try the Baked Live Lobster with White Wine Sauce ($48+++). Poached from the aquarium only when ordered, its freshness is ensured and its taste enhanced by the rich creamy sauce. The Poached Crispy Rice with Diced Garoupa in Fish Broth ($32+++, 3 to 4 persons) though not on menu, is still served on prior requests. The rice is steamed, dried, baked and then deep fried into lip-smacking crunchy pellets which are then added into the pot of fish broth for the final touches resulting in a nutritional yet delightful wholesome meal.
To end the meal on a high note, try the chilled Hashima and “Gui Hua” Honey ($6+++), a refreshing dessert encompassing both health and complexion benefits. The Mango Mousse Rolls Sprinkled with Coconut Flakes ($8+++), refined and smooth, tasted as good as it is looked. It has strong peranakan overtones, considering its usage of the tropical mango and coconut flakes closely associated with “nonya kuehs”.
The Service The waiters and waitresses at Tung Lok Signatures have specially designed outfits which blends tradition and contemporary style. However, the service proficiency varies according to the crowd, as the young restaurant has quite a few new servers on their roster. However, the Group's culture of constantly striving for improvement will likely see Signatures fine tune these aspects in months to come.
SD Food Advisor's take on Tung Lok Signatures Tung Lok Signatures looks like another success for the Group. Its family friendly menu items are likely to capture a significant of the diners at Vivocity looking for good Chinese cuisine. It has a non-intimidating setting which is perfect for some casual family laughter. However, those seeking a romantic ambience will have to bear with a cacophony of loud chatting and the noises of cutlery which may make it less appropriate for that special occasion.