Overview
The 2026 Lunar New Year yusheng scene in Singapore promises innovation alongside tradition, with restaurants pushing boundaries while respecting the ceremonial roots of lo hei. From nostalgic bak kwa collaborations to sustainable seafood and Peranakan-inspired twists, this year’s offerings cater to diverse palates and values. Here’s our detailed analysis of the top contenders.
Restaurant Reviews & Dish Analysis
1. White Restaurant – Golden Horse Abundance Bak Kwa Yusheng
Rating: 9/10
The Innovation: White Restaurant’s collaboration with Bee Cheng Hiang represents the most audacious yusheng concept this season. By integrating Singapore’s beloved CNY snack directly into the toss, they’ve created a dish that bridges nostalgia and novelty.
Dish Analysis: The bak kwa element transforms the textural landscape of traditional yusheng. Where conventional platters rely on crackers for crunch, the grilled meat adds a smoky, caramelized sweetness that interplays beautifully with the tangy plum sauce. The savoury depth cuts through the usual sweetness, creating a more complex flavour profile that appeals to those who find traditional yusheng one-dimensional.
Two Versions:
- Gui Fei Version ($38+): The entry-level option delivers solid value, featuring quality ingredients with the signature bak kwa integration
- Abalone Version ($48+): Premium upgrade adds luxurious ocean flavour, though the bak kwa remains the star
Customisation Options: Smart add-ons include superior abalone, pok chui crackers for extra crunch, and Bee Cheng Hiang’s crispy pulled pork twist. The ability to personalize makes this ideal for groups with varying preferences.
Best For: Families seeking a uniquely Singaporean twist; bak kwa enthusiasts; those wanting Instagram-worthy innovation
Value Proposition: The 18% discount for members and Citi cardholders sweetens an already competitive price point. At $38-48 base, this offers excellent value for creative execution.
2. Mimi Restaurant – Heritage CNY Experience
Rating: 8.5/10
The Setting: What sets Mimi apart isn’t just the yusheng itself but the entire experience. Housed in one of Singapore’s two remaining conserved Chinese mansions, dining here feels like celebrating CNY as it was meant to be—steeped in tradition and family togetherness.
Dish Analysis: Mimi takes a refined approach with three options integrated into their set menus:
Prosperity Lo Hei (Fortune & Prosperity Feast sets): Classic salmon-forward preparation that nails the fundamentals. The fish quality is excellent—fresh, properly cured, with that delicate sweetness. Vegetables are julienned with precision, crackers stay crispy, and the sauce achieves the perfect sweet-tangy balance.
Premium Salmon & Sliced Abalone Lo Hei (Majestic Feast): The abalone addition elevates proceedings significantly. Tender, flavourful slices add oceanic umami without overwhelming the lighter elements. This is for those who want traditional flavours with premium ingredients.
Vegetarian Prosperity Lo Hei (Auspicious Vegetarian Feast): Surprisingly robust. The plant-forward approach doesn’t compromise on texture or complexity, proving that yusheng can be inclusive without being bland.
Best For: Multi-generational gatherings; those valuing ambiance and tradition; set menu convenience seekers
Consideration: You must dine in and order set menus ($88++ to $148++ per person) to enjoy these. No standalone takeaway option limits accessibility, but the riverside heritage setting justifies the investment.
3. 5 ON 25 at Andaz Singapore – Sustainable Elegance
Rating: 9/10
The Philosophy: Chef Lim Hong Lih’s approach centers on sustainability without sacrificing luxury—a challenging balance that this yusheng achieves beautifully.
Dish Analysis: The Petuna ocean trout is a revelation. This sustainably-sourced fish offers richer, butterier flesh than standard salmon, with a silkier mouthfeel that coats the palate. The curing process enhances natural oils, creating an almost creamy texture.
Component Breakdown:
- Crisp Whitebait: Adds delicate crunch and subtle brininess
- Candied Nuts: Sweetness and textural contrast, likely almonds or cashews providing sophisticated crunch
- Fresh Greens: Brightness and clean vegetal notes to balance richness
- Plum Dressing: The binding element—sweet, tangy, symbolic of renewal
Customisation Excellence: The add-ons show serious thought:
- Jade Tiger Abalone: Premium addition for luxury seekers
- Marinated Jellyfish Head: Crunchy, slightly sweet, adds authentic textural complexity
- Vegetarian Bak Kwa: Ingenious plant-based nod to tradition
Best For: Environmentally conscious diners; those seeking refined flavours; couples or smaller groups (3-6 pax portions available)
Value Assessment: At $88 for 3-6 pax or $148 for 7-10 pax, the pricing is mid-to-premium but justified by ingredient quality and culinary execution.
4. Peach Garden – Reliable Classic
Rating: 8/10
The Reputation: Peach Garden built its name on consistency, and their 2026 yusheng lineup reinforces why they’re a perennial favourite.
Dish Analysis:
Salmon Yusheng ($98++): No-frills excellence. Fresh fish, generous portions, vibrant vegetables, and that classic sweet-tangy sauce everyone expects. This is yusheng done right without reinventing the wheel.
Golden Abalone Yusheng ($138++): The premium option layers in luxury seafood for those wanting to impress. Abalone quality is consistently good—tender with proper ocean sweetness.
Pistachio & Almond Vegetarian Yusheng ($78++): This is the standout. Moving beyond the usual mock meat approach, the nut-forward profile creates richness and crunch that rivals seafood versions. Pistachios add vibrant colour while almonds provide satisfying bite. The flavour profile is sophisticated—nutty, slightly sweet, with enough complexity to stand on its own merits.
Best For: Traditionalists; large gatherings needing reliable quality; vegetarian households wanting a memorable option
Accessibility: Multiple locations (Chinatown Point, The Heeren, The Metropolis) make Peach Garden highly convenient. The early ordering window (from December 2) also allows advance planning.
5. Ellenborough Market Cafe – Peranakan Innovation
Rating: 8.5/10
The Concept: Applying Peranakan culinary wisdom to CNY traditions creates two distinct offerings that challenge yusheng conventions.
Dish Analysis:
Peranakan-Style Yusheng ($88+): The tamarind dressing is a game-changer. Where traditional plum sauce offers straightforward sweetness, tamarind brings tangy complexity with subtle sourness and deeper fruit notes. This completely transforms the flavour architecture.
Component Harmony:
- Tender Abalone: Premium protein that justifies the price
- Sweet Potato (Shredded): Unusual inclusion adds natural sweetness and earthy notes
- Crispy Glass Noodles: Delicate crunch, almost ethereal texture
- Smoked Salmon: Familiar element grounds the innovation
- Colourful Vegetables: Visual and textural balance
The umami-richness described in the article comes from the interplay between abalone, tamarind, and possibly belacan or other Peranakan seasonings working behind the scenes.
Prosperity Yusheng with Chia Seed Dressing: The health-conscious option featuring smoked salmon with nutritious chia seeds creates a lighter, more refreshing toss. The chia seeds add subtle nuttiness and visual interest while providing omega-3s—guilt-free indulgence.
Best For: Adventurous eaters; Peranakan cuisine lovers; health-conscious celebrants; those seeking conversation starters
Savings Opportunity: The 25% early bird discount (code “HC25”, valid Jan 2-31) makes these already-competitive prices even more attractive. Free delivery on $450+ orders is ideal for office gatherings or large family orders.
Delivery & Ordering Options Comparison
Delivery Available:
- White Restaurant – Online ordering for takeaway and delivery across multiple outlets (Jewel Changi Airport, VivoCity, Suntec City)
- 5 ON 25 – Available via Andaz online shop for takeaway and delivery
- Peach Garden – Online ordering for takeaway and delivery across multiple locations
- Ellenborough Market Cafe – Online ordering with FREE delivery on orders $450+ nett
Dine-In Only:
- Mimi Restaurant – Yusheng only available as part of set menus for dining in (closed Feb 17)
Ordering Windows:
- Earliest Availability: Peach Garden (from Dec 2, 2025)
- Early Bird Savings: Ellenborough Market Cafe (Jan 2-31, 2026 – 25% off with code HC25)
- Peak Season: Most restaurants available Jan-Feb 2026
- Extended Availability: Most options available through March 3, 2026
Delivery Considerations:
All takeaway yusheng should be tossed within 2-3 hours of collection/delivery for optimal freshness. Order timing is crucial—arrange delivery 1-2 hours before your reunion dinner. Most restaurants provide ice packs or insulated packaging for fish freshness.
Recommendations by Preference
For Traditionalists: Peach Garden’s salmon yusheng offers no-surprises excellence
For Innovators: White Restaurant’s bak kwa collaboration or Ellenborough’s Peranakan-style
For Sustainability: 5 ON 25’s Petuna ocean trout with thoughtful sourcing
For Vegetarians: Peach Garden’s pistachio & almond version (surprisingly luxurious)
For Experience Seekers: Mimi Restaurant’s heritage mansion setting (dine-in required)
For Budget-Conscious: White Restaurant’s Gui Fei version at $38 with 18% discount potential, or leverage Ellenborough’s early bird 25% off
For Large Groups: Peach Garden’s multiple locations and generous portions; Ellenborough’s free delivery on $450+
For Customisation: White Restaurant and 5 ON 25 offer extensive add-on options
Final Verdict
This year’s yusheng scene rewards both loyalty and adventure. Traditionalists can count on Peach Garden’s consistency, while innovators have compelling reasons to try White Restaurant’s bak kwa fusion or Ellenborough’s Peranakan interpretation. The emergence of sustainability-focused options (5 ON 25) and genuinely impressive vegetarian versions signals a maturing market that respects both tradition and contemporary values.
Top Pick Overall: White Restaurant for innovation, value, and accessibility
Top Pick for Quality: 5 ON 25 for ingredient excellence and refined execution
Top Pick for Vegetarians: Peach Garden’s pistachio & almond version
Top Pick for Experience: Mimi Restaurant for ambiance and heritage
Order early, customize boldly, and toss high—here’s to a prosperous Year of the Horse!