Paya Lebar Quarter has transformed the Eastern dining landscape with an impressive collection of approximately 160 food and beverage outlets. After exploring the mall’s diverse culinary offerings, it’s clear that PLQ has successfully positioned itself as a serious dining destination rather than just another shopping mall food court. Here’s my comprehensive take on what makes PLQ’s food scene worth your time.
The Solo Dining Revolution: Yakiniku Like
One of PLQ’s smartest additions is Yakiniku Like, which completely reimagines the Japanese BBQ experience. Gone are the days when enjoying quality yakiniku meant gathering a group or spending a fortune. This fast-casual concept delivers individual grilling stations where you can enjoy premium cuts without the awkward solo-diner stigma.
Menu Highlights:
- Set Meals (from $9.90): Include protein choice, rice, soup, and salad
- Karubi 100g ($4.90): Premium beef with beautiful marbling
- Pork Belly ($3.90 per 100g): Fatty, flavorful cuts
- Chicken Thigh ($3.50 per 100g): Juicy and tender
- Harami Skirt Steak ($7.90 per 100g): For the premium experience
- Kalbi Short Rib ($6.90 per 100g): Rich, beefy flavor
- Additional sides like kimchi and extra rice available
The value proposition is remarkable. Set meals starting under $10 include your choice of protein, rice, soup, and salad. While these sets are budget-friendly, the a la carte options reveal the restaurant’s true quality. The Karubi beef at $4.90 per 100g showcases beautiful marbling and melts on the tongue with that characteristic beefy richness. The quick service model means you’re in and out efficiently, making it perfect for lunch breaks or when you’re craving Japanese BBQ without the commitment of a two-hour group dinner.
Breakfast Done Right: Fong Sheng Hao
Taiwanese breakfast culture has finally found a proper home at PLQ through Fong Sheng Hao, a brand with deep roots in Taipei’s famous Shilin Market. Their specialty lies in charcoal-grilled milk toast, and the Patty With Egg Cheese set exemplifies why this technique matters.
Menu Highlights:
- Patty With Egg Cheese ($8.60): Thick minced pork patty, egg, cheese on grilled milk toast
- Ham & Egg ($7.20): Classic breakfast combination
- Tuna With Egg ($7.80): Lighter protein option
- Peanut Butter Toast ($5.20): Sweet breakfast alternative
- Fong Sheng Signature Milk Tea ($4.80): Roasted black tea with milk
- Soy Milk ($2.80): Traditional Taiwanese breakfast drink
- Black Tea ($3.20): Pure tea option
- Toast Sets (from $5.20): Various sweet and savory combinations
The thick minced pork patty delivers savory depth, while generous melted cheese adds indulgent creaminess. What sets it apart is the toast itself, grilled to achieve a subtle smokiness and pillowy texture that absorbs flavors without becoming soggy.
The Fong Sheng Signature Milk Tea deserves special mention. Unlike the overly sweet milk teas that dominate the market, this version allows the roasted black tea to shine through with just enough sweetness to balance the natural bitterness. It’s a refreshing departure and pairs perfectly with their hearty toast sets. Opening from 7:30am daily, it’s become a reliable spot for those seeking a substantial breakfast that goes beyond the usual kaya toast routine.
Swiss Comfort Food: Wursthans Switzerland
Wursthans Switzerland brings an unexpected cuisine to the PLQ lineup, and it’s a welcome addition. The restaurant’s chic, wood-accented interior immediately sets a comfortable tone.
Menu Highlights:
- Signature Pilatus ($21.90): Swiss-style chicken schnitzel
- Build Your Own Swiss Meal (from $16.90): Mix and match protein, rosti, and sauces
- Proteins: Bratwurst, chicken schnitzel, pork schnitzel, salmon
- Sides: Rosti (signature), fries, salad, vegetables
- Sauces: Mushroom, cheese, peppercorn, tomato
- Zurich Geschnetzeltes ($23.90): Veal strips in white wine cream sauce
- Cheese Fondue ($38.90 for 2 pax): Traditional Swiss cheese pot
- Raclette ($28.90): Melted cheese with potatoes and pickles
- Swiss Wurst Platter ($32.90): Assorted sausages with sides
- Rosti variations (from $18.90): Different toppings and proteins
Their signature Pilatus, essentially a Swiss-style schnitzel, showcases careful preparation where chicken is pounded thin, battered, and grilled until achieving that satisfying crisp exterior.
However, the real star is their Build Your Own Swiss Meal concept starting from $16.90. This mix-and-match approach lets you customize your rosti base with various proteins, sides, and sauces. The rosti itself provides that essential Swiss comfort element, crispy on the outside with tender potato goodness inside. It’s hearty, filling, and offers enough variety that repeat visits won’t feel monotonous. The portions are generous, making the price point quite reasonable for the quality delivered.
All-Day Izakaya: NeNe Neko
NeNe Neko demonstrates impressive versatility by successfully operating as a cafe during the day and transforming into an izakaya at night.
Daytime Menu:
- Yakiniku Gyu Don ($15.90): Grilled beef rice bowl
- Mentaiko Udon with Salmon ($20.90): Creamy cod roe pasta-style udon
- Teriyaki Chicken Don ($13.90): Classic glazed chicken
- Katsu Curry Rice ($14.90): Breaded pork cutlet with curry
- Set Meal Upgrade (+$3): Adds gyoza, soup, and sencha tea
Evening Kushiyaki (Skewers):
- Mentaiko Yakitori ($3.60): Cod roe glazed chicken
- Bacon Asparagus ($3.80): Wrapped and grilled
- Jidori Tsukune ($3.60): Chicken meatball skewer
- Negima ($3.50): Chicken and leek
- Shiitake Mushroom ($3.20): Grilled mushrooms
- Pork Belly ($4.20): Fatty, flavorful skewers
- Beef Tongue ($5.80): Premium cut
Drinks:
- Happy Hour Beer ($10 for full pint, 12pm-7pm)
- Sake selections (from $12)
- Highballs (from $10)
The daytime menu features solid options like the Yakiniku Gyu Don at $15.90 and Mentaiko Udon with Salmon at $20.90. The $3 set meal upgrade adding gyoza, soup, and sencha represents excellent value.
Where NeNe Neko truly excels is during evening hours. Their kushiyaki selection spans from Mentaiko Yakitori at $3.60 to Bacon Asparagus at $3.80, with each skewer showing careful preparation and proper char. The happy hour running from 12pm to 7pm offers full pints at $10, positioning the restaurant as an accessible after-work gathering spot. The extended hours, including Friday and Saturday service until midnight, fill a genuine need in the area for casual drinking venues with quality food.
Western Cafe Culture: Jimmy Monkey Cafe
Jimmy Monkey Cafe’s expansion from its popular one-north location to PLQ brings much-needed specialty coffee expertise to the East. The cafe operates custom-built Slayer coffee machines, which serious coffee enthusiasts will appreciate for their temperature stability and extraction precision.
Food Menu:
- The Hulk ($17++): Sourdough with avocado and feta cheese
- Cheesy Vegemite Toast Soldiers ($14++): Toast fingers with Vegemite, cheese, and soft-boiled eggs
- Truffle Scrambled Eggs ($18++): Creamy scrambled eggs with truffle oil
- Smoked Salmon Benedict ($22++): Poached eggs on English muffin
- Jimmy’s Big Breakfast ($24++): Full breakfast spread
- Mushroom Aglio Olio ($16++): Garlic pasta with mushrooms
- Chicken Pesto Pasta ($18++): Grilled chicken with basil pesto
- Salted Caramel French Toast ($16++): Sweet brunch option
Coffee & Drinks:
- Flat White ($6.50): Signature espresso drink
- Cappuccino ($6.50): Classic milk coffee
- Long Black ($6): Pure espresso experience
- Pour Over (from $8): Single origin selections
- Cold Brew ($7.50): Smooth, less acidic
- Specialty Lattes (from $8): Various flavored options
This translates to consistently excellent brews with clean, bright flavors. Beyond coffee, the food menu embraces playful creativity. The Hulk toast features generous avocado and creamy feta on sourdough, a combination that works surprisingly well. The Cheesy Vegemite Toast Soldiers might sound quirky, but the umami-rich Vegemite with melted cheese creates an addictive savory profile that pairs beautifully with soft-boiled eggs for dipping. The adorable monkey mascot and quirky dish names add personality without feeling forced. Operating from 8am to 10pm daily, it accommodates various meal times and doubles as a comfortable workspace with reliable WiFi.
Elevated Nightlife: Tipsy Bird Gastrobar
Tipsy Bird Gastrobar attempts to bridge casual dining and upscale entertainment, offering live music alongside serious culinary offerings.
Premium Mains:
- Angus Beef Tomahawk ($100++): Dry-aged premium cut
- Pork Tomahawk ($26++): Value alternative
- Moonlight Truffle Beef Hor Fun ($26++): Fusion dish with Wagyu striploin
- Grilled Lamb Rack ($38++): Herb-crusted lamb
- Pan-Seared Salmon ($28++): Atlantic salmon with sides
- Lobster Thermidor ($48++): Classic French preparation
Sharing Plates & Starters:
- Crispy Calamari ($14++): Fried squid rings
- Truffle Fries ($12++): Hand-cut with truffle oil
- Chicken Wings (from $12++): Various flavors
- Bruschetta ($10++): Tomato and basil on toast
Lunch Promo (12pm-3pm):
- Main Course ($14.90++)
- Add Drink + Side (+$3)
- Options include pasta, burgers, rice dishes
Cocktails & Beverages:
- House Cocktails (from $15++)
- Wines by Glass (from $12++)
- Draft Beer (from $12++)
- Mocktails (from $10++)
The Angus Beef Tomahawk at $100 and Pork Tomahawk at $26 represent significant investments, though the dry-aging process justifies the premium on beef.
More interesting are their creative fusion dishes like the Moonlight Truffle Beef Hor Fun at $26. This dish successfully elevates a local classic with truffle perfume and Wagyu striploin without losing the essential wok hei that defines good hor fun. The lunch promo from 12pm to 3pm at $14.90 with optional drink and side for $3 makes their cuisine accessible for those hesitant to commit to full dinner pricing. The venue’s operating hours extending to 1am on weekdays and 11pm on Sundays position it as one of PLQ’s few late-night options.
Handmade Noodle Mastery: Western Mahua Noodles
Western Mahua Noodles brings over a century of Chinese culinary tradition to PLQ, and the experience shows in their hand-pulled noodles. Watching the noodle-making process reveals genuine skill, with each strand pulled extra thin to achieve maximum surface area for sauce absorption.
Signature Beef La Mian:
- Signature Bone Broth Beef La Mian (from $10.80): Clear broth with hand-pulled noodles
- Spicy Bone Broth Beef La Mian (from $11.80): Chili oil version
- Braised Beef La Mian (from $13.80): Rich dark soy sauce flavor
- Premium Beef La Mian (from $15.80): More tender beef cuts
Other Noodle Dishes:
- Dan Dan Noodles ($9.80): Spicy Sichuan classic
- Zhajiang Noodles ($10.80): Fermented bean sauce
- Tomato Egg Noodles ($9.50): Comfort food option
- Vegetable La Mian ($8.80): Plant-based choice
Side Dishes:
- Beef Pancake ($4.80): Flaky, savory pastry
- Cucumber Salad ($3.80): Refreshing side
- Spicy Wontons ($6.80): Chili oil dumplings
- Braised Beef Cubes ($8.80): Extra protein
Beverages:
- Soy Milk ($2.50): Hot or cold
- Plum Juice ($3.50): Sweet and tangy
- Herbal Tea ($2.80): Traditional Chinese tea
The Signature Bone Broth Beef La Mian exemplifies their philosophy. Using three kilograms of bones to produce one kilogram of soup creates a deeply concentrated broth with remarkable body. The extra-thin noodles practically drink up this aromatic liquid. For those seeking bolder flavors, the Braised Beef La Mian incorporates rich dark soy sauce and fatty beef pieces that provide satisfying mouthfeel. The halal certification makes it accessible to a wider audience, and prices starting from $10.80 represent fair value for the handmade quality and generous portions.
Vegetarian Fine Dining: elemen
Elemen challenges preconceptions about vegetarian dining by presenting plant-based cuisine with the care and presentation typically reserved for fine dining establishments.
Course Menus (Reservation Required):
5-Course Menu ($28.80++):
- Amuse-bouche or Soup of the Day
- Appetizer (e.g., Seaweed Tempura Tofu with Avocado Roll)
- Main Course Choice:
- Wild Mushroom with White Truffle Pizza
- Salted Egg Pasta
- Teriyaki Plant-Based Protein
- Side Dish
- Dessert
8-Course Menu ($33.80++):
- Extended tasting experience with additional courses
- Includes premium items and seasonal specialties
- Greater variety of cooking techniques
- More elaborate plating
Signature Dishes (also available à la carte):
- Wild Mushroom White Truffle Pizza ($18.80++): Thin crust with assorted mushrooms
- Salted Egg Pasta ($16.80++): Creamy, umami-rich sauce
- Seaweed Tempura Tofu Roll ($14.80++): Crispy tempura with avocado
- Teriyaki Bowl ($15.80++): Plant-based protein with vegetables
- Truffle Mushroom Soup ($12.80++): Rich and earthy
Beverages:
- Fresh juices (from $6)
- Specialty teas (from $5)
- Coffee selections (from $5.50)
Their course menus at $28.80 for five courses and $33.80 for eight courses demonstrate exceptional value considering the complexity involved.
The variety across courses is impressive. Salted Egg Pasta delivers rich, creamy umami without any seafood. Seaweed Tempura Tofu with Avocado Roll balances textures beautifully between crispy tempura and silky avocado. The Wild Mushroom with White Truffle Pizza showcases how premium ingredients can elevate vegetarian dishes beyond simple vegetable preparations. Reservations are required through their website, which helps manage expectations and ensures proper pacing of courses. Even non-vegetarians will find the experience compelling and satisfying.
Premium Bubble Tea: CHICHA San Chen
In Singapore’s saturated bubble tea market, CHICHA San Chen distinguishes itself through unwavering commitment to tea quality.
Signature Tea Series:
- Dong Ding Oolong Tea ($3.80): Roasted oolong with deep flavor
- Four Seasons Spring Tea ($3.80): Floral and refreshing
- Jasmine Green Tea ($3.80): Fragrant and light
- Ruby Black Tea ($4.20): Rich and robust
- Osmanthus Oolong ($4.50): Floral infusion
Milk Tea Series:
- Dong Ding Oolong Milk Tea ($5.30): Their signature with fresh milk
- Classic Milk Tea ($5.30): Traditional bubble tea flavor
- Brown Sugar Pearl Milk ($6.50): Caramelized sweetness
- Tieguanyin Milk Tea ($5.80): Iron goddess oolong base
Special Drinks:
- Cheese Foam Series (add $1.80): Salted cream cheese topping
- Fresh Fruit Tea (from $6.80): Seasonal fruits with tea
- Yakult Series (from $6.50): Probiotic drinks
Toppings:
- Pearls ($1): Classic tapioca
- Fresh Milk ($1.50): Premium dairy
- Coconut Jelly ($1): Light and refreshing
- Pudding ($1.20): Smooth custard
- Aloe Vera ($1): Fresh and cooling
Their signature Dong Ding Oolong Tea at $3.80 uses high-quality roasted tea leaves that produce a deep, slightly bitter body with lingering sweet oolong aromatics. This isn’t tea as an afterthought to sugar and toppings; it’s tea as the star attraction.
Adding fresh milk for $1.50 introduces richness without overwhelming the tea’s essential character. The pearls at $1 maintain proper texture, chewy without being gummy. Beyond aesthetic cups that photograph well, CHICHA delivers substantive quality that rewards those who appreciate good tea. The $6-7 price point for a fully customized drink feels justified given the ingredient quality and care in preparation.
Authentic Indonesian: Pondok Jawa
Pondok Jawa expands from its Scotts Road original to bring authentic Javanese cuisine to the East. The halal certification combined with genuine Indonesian flavors addresses a real gap in the market.
Rice Dishes:
- Ayam Penyet ($9.90): Smashed fried chicken with sambal
- Nasi Goreng Jawa ($9.90): Javanese-style fried rice
- Nasi Ayam Bakar ($11.90): Grilled chicken with rice
- Nasi Bebek Goreng ($13.90): Fried duck with rice
- Gado Gado ($9.90): Vegetable salad with peanut sauce
Signature Mains:
- Rendang Jawa Timur ($14.90): East Javanese beef rendang
- Udang Petai Balado ($21.90): Prawns with stink beans in chili
- Ayam Rica Rica ($12.90): Spicy Manado-style chicken
- Ikan Bakar ($15.90): Grilled fish with sambal
- Sate Ayam ($10.90): Chicken satay with peanut sauce
Sides:
- Telor Balado ($4.90): Eggs in spicy chili sauce
- Lontong Sayur ($9.90): Rice cakes in vegetable curry
- Perkedel ($3.90): Indonesian potato fritters
- Tempe Goreng ($3.90): Fried fermented soybean cake
- Sayur Asem ($5.90): Tamarind vegetable soup
Beverages:
- Es Teh Manis ($2.50): Sweet iced tea
- Es Jeruk ($3.50): Fresh orange juice
- Es Kelapa Muda ($4.90): Young coconut water
- Teh Talua ($5.50): Padang egg tea
Classic dishes like Ayam Penyet at $9.90 and Nasi Goreng Jawa at $9.90 provide accessible entry points, while family-style dishes showcase the cuisine’s depth.
The Rendang Jawa Timur at $14.90 demonstrates proper slow-cooking technique, with meat that’s tender and thoroughly infused with complex spice blends. Udang Petai Balado at $21.90 brings those distinctive petai beans that polarize diners, but for fans, it’s prepared excellently with proper wok breath and balanced spicing. Don’t skip sides like Telor Balado, where eggs are transformed through sambal coating into something considerably more interesting than simple hard-boiled eggs.
Thai Milk Tea Specialists: ChaTraMue
ChaTraMue’s flagship store at PLQ represents the brand’s serious intent in Singapore. Everything here uses authentic Thai cha yen from their own plantations, ensuring consistency and quality control.
Classic Thai Tea:
- Thai Milk Tea (Red) (from $5.60): Signature orange-red tea with milk
- Thai Green Milk Tea (from $5.60): Matcha-style green version
- Thai Black Tea ($4.50): Pure tea without milk
- Thai Lemon Tea ($5.20): Citrus-infused refreshment
Specialty Drinks:
- ChaTraMue Signature ($6.80): Premium blend with special toppings
- Thai Coffee ($5.80): Strong Thai-style coffee
- Thai Cocoa ($6.20): Chocolate milk drink
- Ovaltine ($6.20): Malt chocolate beverage
Cold Treats:
- Thai Milk Tea Soft Serve ($5.80): Ice cream made with their tea
- Thai Tea Float ($7.50): Soft serve in Thai tea
- Thai Tea Smoothie ($7.20): Blended frozen version
- Thai Tea Frappe ($7.50): Coffee-style iced drink
Toppings & Add-ons:
- Pearls (add $1): Chewy tapioca
- Grass Jelly (add $1): Herbal jelly cubes
- Coconut Meat (add $1.50): Fresh coconut pieces
- Extra Condensed Milk (add $0.50): Sweeter version
The classic red and green Thai milk teas starting from $5.60 deliver that distinctive Thai tea flavor, strongly brewed with characteristic sweetness and creaminess.
Beyond beverages, they offer soft serves and other items all incorporating their signature tea. For those who find Thai tea too sweet, chocolate and coffee alternatives are available. The dedication to a single ingredient source might seem limiting, but it ensures every product maintains the authentic Thai character that fans seek. The flagship status means slightly higher foot traffic, but service remains efficient.
Wine and Dine: The Providore
The Providore’s Free Flow Wine promotion starting at $45.90 per person for two hours presents intriguing value for wine enthusiasts.
Free Flow Wine Package ($45.90++ per person, 2 hours):
- Self-service tap system with multiple selections
- Red wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz
- White wines: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio
- Dessert wines: Sweet selections
- Must order food items
Mains:
- Braised Beef Ribs with Truffle Mash ($49.80++): Slow-cooked tender ribs
- Lobster Mac & Cheese ($28++): Decadent pasta dish
- Grilled Ribeye Steak ($48++): 250g premium beef
- Salmon Wellington ($32++): Puff pastry-wrapped fish
- Lamb Shank ($38++): Braised until tender
- Wagyu Burger ($28++): Premium beef patty
Starters & Sides:
- Sichuan Chilli Pepper Chicken Wings ($13.80++): Spicy, numbing heat
- Truffle Fries ($12++): Hand-cut with truffle oil
- Burrata Salad ($18++): Fresh mozzarella with tomatoes
- Oysters (from $4.50++ each): Fresh shucked
- Soup of the Day ($10++)
Pasta:
- Carbonara ($22++): Classic cream and bacon
- Aglio Olio ($18++): Garlic and olive oil
- Seafood Marinara ($26++): Mixed seafood in tomato
- Truffle Mushroom ($24++): Creamy truffle sauce
Desserts:
- Chocolate Lava Cake ($12++): Molten center
- Tiramisu ($10++): Italian classic
- Panna Cotta ($10++): Silky Italian custard
The self-service tap system includes red, white, and dessert wines, encouraging exploration without the commitment of full bottles. This format works particularly well for groups wanting variety.
Food offerings lean upscale with dishes like Braised Beef Ribs with Truffle Mash at $49.80 and Lobster Mac & Cheese at $28. The Sichuan Chilli Pepper Chicken Wings at $13.80 provide a spicy counterpoint to richer mains. Quality is consistent, though not exceptional. The real value lies in the wine program combined with comfortable seating and operating hours extending to midnight, making it suitable for longer, leisurely meals.
Korean Bakery Cafe: Paris Baguette
Paris Baguette’s 2,400 square foot space with seating for 80 establishes it as one of PLQ’s larger cafe options. The size accommodates both quick coffee runs and extended laptop sessions.
Signature Bakes:
- Royal Pudding ($5.50): Custard-filled pastry
- Milk Cream Cheese Buns (from $2.90): Korean cow’s milk filling
- Croissants (from $3.20): Butter-layered pastry
- Danish Pastries (from $3.50): Various fruit and cream fillings
- Garlic Cheese Bread ($3.80): Savory option
- Red Bean Bun ($3.20): Sweet bean paste filling
Cakes & Desserts:
- Strawberry Shortcake (slice $7.50): Classic layered cake
- Tiramisu Cake (slice $8.20): Coffee-soaked layers
- Chocolate Gateau (slice $7.80): Rich chocolate
- Fruit Tarts (from $6.50): Seasonal fruits on pastry
- Macarons ($3 each): French meringue cookies
Dine-In Menu:
- Sandwiches (from $8.90): Various fresh combinations
- Salads (from $9.90): Healthy meal options
- Quiche ($7.50): Egg and cheese tart
- Pasta (from $12.90): Hot meal options
- Toast Sets (from $9.90): Breakfast combinations
Beverages:
- Americano ($5.50): Espresso coffee
- Latte ($6.50): Milk coffee
- Iced Tea (from $5): Various flavors
- Fruit Ades (from $6.50): Fresh fruit drinks
- Smoothies (from $7.50): Blended fruit
Their Royal Pudding at $5.50 demonstrates proper custard technique with silky texture and balanced sweetness.
The milk cream cheese buns made with premium Korean cow’s milk starting from $2.90 represent their bread-baking expertise. The cream cheese filling is notably less sweet than typical Asian bakery items, allowing the quality of the dairy to show through. Fresh bakes rotate throughout the day, meaning morning visits offer different selections than afternoon stops. It’s reliable rather than revolutionary, which has its place in a food court context.
Japanese Donburi Excellence: Donburi King
Donburi King focuses specifically on seafood rice bowls, and this specialization shows in the quality and variety offered.
Signature Donburi Bowls:
- Aburi Salmon Belly Ikura Don ($25.80++): Torched salmon belly with salmon roe
- Aburi Mekajiki Belly Don ($20.80++): Torched swordfish with minced tuna
- Chirashi Don ($22.80++): Assorted sashimi on rice
- Unagi Don ($24.80++): Grilled eel with sweet sauce
- Bara Chirashi Don ($19.80++): Mixed chopped sashimi
- Salmon Oyako Don ($21.80++): Salmon and salmon roe parent-child bowl
- Maguro Avocado Don ($23.80++): Tuna with creamy avocado
Cooked Bowls:
- Gyudon ($14.80++): Beef bowl
- Katsu Don ($15.80++): Breaded pork cutlet with egg
- Chicken Teriyaki Don ($13.80++): Glazed chicken
- Ebi Tempura Don ($16.80++): Prawn tempura bowl
Side Dishes:
- Chawanmushi Truffle Oil ($7.90++): Silky egg custard with truffle
- Tako Yaki Ball ($4.90++): Octopus balls
- Ebi Fry ($4.90++): Breaded fried prawns
- Gyoza ($5.90++): Pan-fried dumplings
- Miso Soup ($2.50++): Traditional soup
- Edamame ($4.50++): Salted soybeans
Combination Sets:
- Donburi + Udon Set (add $5++): Bowl with noodle soup
- Donburi + Soba Set (add $5++): Bowl with buckwheat noodles
- Mini Don + Main (from $18.80++): Smaller bowl with another dish
The Aburi Salmon Belly Ikura Don at $25.80 loads torched salmon belly and salmon roe generously over rice. The torching adds essential textural contrast and brings out the fish’s natural oils.
The Aburi Mekajiki Belly Don at $20.80 features swordfish, a less common but worthy alternative to salmon. Fatty torched swordfish provides mild, clean flavor complemented by minced tuna. Sides like Chawanmushi with Truffle Oil at $7.90 show attention to detail, with the delicate egg custard enhanced subtly by truffle without overwhelming the dish’s fundamental nature. Prices reflect the seafood quality, and portions satisfy without feeling excessive.
Irish Duck Specialists: London Fat Duck
London Fat Duck introduces Irish duck, marketed as the Wagyu of ducks, to the PLQ dining scene.
Roasted Duck:
- Quarter Duck ($21++): Individual portion
- Half Duck ($41++): For sharing or hearty appetite
- Whole Duck ($78++): Group or family meal
- Deboning Service (from $6++ per duck): Optional bone removal
Duck Rice Sets:
- Quarter Duck Rice Set ($24++): Includes rice, vegetables, soup
- Half Duck Rice Set ($44++): Complete meal for one or two
- Braised Duck Rice ($18++): Soy-braised version
Other Mains:
- Roast Chicken (from $18++): Alternative poultry
- BBQ Pork Ribs ($22++): Glazed pork
- Duck Noodle Soup ($14++): Soup with duck meat
- Duck Congee ($12++): Comfort food rice porridge
Sides:
- Stir-fried Vegetables ($8++): Seasonal greens
- Roasted Potatoes ($6++): Crispy outside, fluffy inside
- Duck Giblets ($10++): For adventurous eaters
- Preserved Vegetables ($4++): Traditional accompaniment
Sauces:
- House Plum Sauce: Tangy-sweet complement (included)
- Chili Sauce: Spicy kick (included)
- Ginger Sauce: Aromatic dip (included)
A quarter duck at $21 provides ample meat for one person, while half at $41 or whole at $78 accommodate groups. The optional deboning service starting from $6 per duck removes a common barrier to duck enjoyment.
The secret in-house marinade delivers flavor throughout the meat, not just on the surface. Roasting technique achieves the crucial balance between rendering fat properly while maintaining juiciness. The meat benefits significantly from their house plum sauce, which cuts richness with tangy sweetness. Located right at the basement MRT entrance makes it convenient for quick takeaway dinners. The duck’s quality justifies the pricing, though it’s not an everyday expense.
Spice Challenge: Papa Ayam
Papa Ayam brings Indonesian-style fried chicken with customizable spice levels from 1 to 15, and even beyond for the adventurous.
Main Dishes:
- Ayam Geprek Original ($7.90): Crispy fried chicken with sambal on rice
- Ayam Geprek Indomie ($8.50): Same chicken with noodles instead of rice
- Ayam Geprek Mozzarella ($10.90): Topped with melted cheese
- Ayam Geprek Salted Egg ($10.90): With salted egg yolk sauce
- Ayam Geprek Cheese Sauce ($9.90): Creamy cheese topping
Spice Levels:
- Level 1-5: Mild to moderate heat (beginner-friendly)
- Level 6-10: Medium to spicy (for regular spice eaters)
- Level 11-15: Very hot (serious heat seekers)
- Level 27: Challenge level (free if completed in 5 minutes)
Side Dishes:
- Extra Sambal ($1): Additional chili paste
- Fried Egg ($1.50): Classic accompaniment
- Vegetables ($2): Fresh cucumber and lettuce
- Extra Chicken ($5): Additional piece
- Kerupuk ($1): Prawn crackers
Beverages:
- Iced Tea ($2.50): To cool the heat
- Lemon Tea ($3): Citrus refreshment
- Milo ($3.50): Chocolate malt drink
- Bandung ($3.50): Rose syrup milk
- Teh Tarik ($3): Pulled milk tea
The Papa Ayam Challenge:
- Upsized portion at Level 27 spiciness
- Must finish in under 5 minutes
- Free meal if successful
- Wall of fame recognition
- Sign waiver before attempting
The Ayam Geprek Original at $7.90 features crispy battered chicken smothered in sambal at your chosen intensity. The batter maintains crunch even under sauce, crucial for textural enjoyment.
The Ayam Geprek Indomie at $8.50 substitutes noodles for rice, adding another textural element to the dish. For thrill-seekers, the spicy challenge offers free meal and wall of fame placement for finishing an upsized Level 27 portion in under five minutes. Even without attempting the challenge, the ability to precisely control spice level means everyone from timid to fire-breathing can find their comfort zone. The Muslim-owned establishment ensures halal compliance.
Sichuan Specialist: Tai Er
Tai Er’s global presence with over 600 outlets speaks to their Sichuan cuisine’s broad appeal.
Signature Dishes:
- Signature Suancai & Fish (from $33++): Fresh fish in tangy-spicy sauerkraut soup
- Small (2-3 pax)
- Medium (3-4 pax)
- Large (4-5 pax)
- Stir-fried Beef with Pepper ($22++): Tender beef in mildly numbing spicy sauce
- Mouthwatering Chicken ($18++): Cold chicken in chili oil
- Spicy Boiled Fish ($36++): Sichuan-style poached fish
Hot Pot & Soup:
- Spicy Boiled Beef ($24++): Tender beef in chili broth
- Mapo Tofu ($16++): Classic spicy tofu dish
- Hot & Sour Soup ($12++): Tangy and spicy soup
Stir-Fries:
- Kung Pao Chicken ($18++): Peanuts and dried chilies
- Twice-Cooked Pork ($20++): Crispy belly slices
- Dry-Fried Green Beans ($14++): Crispy Sichuan beans
Mild Options:
- Braised Cabbage with Soup ($10++): Comforting vegetable dish
- Garlic Glass Noodles Prawn ($19++): Vermicelli with prawns
- Sweet & Sour Pork ($18++): Classic Chinese-American dish
- Stir-fried Seasonal Vegetables ($12++): Simple greens
Rice & Noodles:
- Dan Dan Noodles ($12++): Spicy Sichuan noodles
- Steamed Rice ($2++): Plain jasmine rice
- Fried Rice ($8++): Simple egg fried rice
- Steamed Buns ($6++ for 4): Fluffy mantou
Desserts:
- Brown Sugar Glutinous Rice Balls ($8++): Sweet soup dessert
- Fried Ice Cream ($9++): Crispy shell with ice cream
The Signature Suancai & Fish starting from $33 exemplifies their approach where fresh fish swims in balanced tangy-spicy sauerkraut soup. The sourness cuts through the inherent fattiness of the fish while spice builds gradually rather than overwhelming immediately.
The Stir-fried Beef with Pepper at $22 delivers tender beef in mildly numbing spicy sauce, showcasing proper mala flavor without the excessive heat that sometimes defines Sichuan cooking outside China. To balance the intensity, their Braised Cabbage with Soup at $10 and Garlic Glass Noodles Prawn at $19 provide familiar, comforting flavors. The combination of bold and mild dishes across a meal demonstrates how Sichuan cuisine should be experienced rather than just endured through heat.
Artisanal Bubble Tea: Playmade
Playmade differentiates itself in the crowded bubble tea market through handmade pearls in multiple flavors.
Handmade Pearl Flavors:
- Original Pearl: Classic brown sugar tapioca
- Pink Cactus: Fruity, floral notes
- Black Sesame: Nutty, aromatic
- Burnt Caramel: Sweet, toasted flavor
- Yam: Purple sweet potato
- Peanut: Creamy, savory-sweet
- Earl Grey: Tea-infused pearls
Milk Tea Series:
- Classic Milk Tea ($6): Traditional bubble tea
- Brown Sugar Pearl Milk ($6.50): Caramelized sweetness
- Matcha Latte ($6.50): Japanese green tea
- Hojicha Latte ($6.50): Roasted green tea
- Oolong Milk Tea ($6): Floral tea base
Fruit Tea Series:
- Passion Fruit Green Tea ($6): Tangy and refreshing
- Lychee Black Tea ($6): Sweet floral fruit
- Grapefruit Green Tea ($6.50): Citrus burst
- Mixed Berry Tea ($6.80): Assorted berries
Seasonal Specials:
- Changes regularly based on ingredients
- Often features unique flavor combinations
- Limited time offerings
- Usually priced from $6.50-$7.50
Customization Options:
- Ice level: 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%
- Sugar level: 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%
- Pearl choice: Select any handmade flavor
- Add toppings (additional $1 each)
Additional Toppings:
- Aloe Vera ($1): Refreshing gel cubes
- Pudding ($1): Smooth custard
- Grass Jelly ($1): Herbal jelly
- Red Bean ($1): Sweet bean paste
This attention to the oft-neglected topping component shows commitment to the complete bubble tea experience. Each pearl variety brings distinct flavor that complements rather than just adding texture.
While base tea flavors follow standard bubble tea shop offerings, their seasonal drinks regularly introduce interesting combinations worth trying. Prices averaging $6 reflect the handmade pearl premium and sit in the upper-middle range of the market. The investment in pearl variety pays off for those who consider toppings essential to the bubble tea experience rather than optional extras.
Gourmet Hot Dogs: Super Sub
In Singapore’s burger-dominated fast casual landscape, Super Sub’s focus on gourmet hot dogs fills an underserved niche.
Signature Hot Dogs:
- Chicken Pesto ($8.80): Grilled chicken with basil pesto sauce
- Yuzu Crab ($9.80): Crab meat with yuzu mayo
- Truffle Egg Mayo ($9.80): Truffle-infused egg salad
- Spicy Korean ($8.80): Gochujang sauce with kimchi
- BBQ Pulled Pork ($9.50): Slow-cooked pork with BBQ sauce
- Mentaiko Mayo ($9.80): Cod roe sauce
- Teriyaki Chicken ($8.80): Japanese-style glazed chicken
Classic Options:
- Classic Beef Hot Dog ($7.80): Traditional sausage
- Cheese Dog ($8.50): Melted cheese topping
- Chili Cheese Dog ($9.50): Beef chili and cheese
- New York Style ($8.80): Sauerkraut and mustard
Sides (All include tortilla chips):
- Dip Selections (add $3 each):
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Cheese sauce
- Sour cream
- Jalapeño dip
Combo Meals:
- Hot Dog + Drink (add $3): Any soda or iced tea
- Hot Dog + Loaded Fries (add $5): Fries with toppings
- 2 Hot Dogs Special ($16): Mix and match any two
Loaded Fries:
- Cheese Fries ($6.80): Melted cheese sauce
- Chili Cheese Fries ($8.80): Beef chili and cheese
- Truffle Fries ($7.80): Truffle oil and parmesan
Beverages:
- Soft Drinks ($2.50): Coke, Sprite, etc.
- Iced Tea ($3): Lemon or peach
- Fresh Lemonade ($4): House-made
- Coffee ($4.50): Hot or iced
Sausages with toppings like Chicken Pesto at $8.80, Yuzu Crab at $9.80, and Truffle Egg Mayo at $9.80 demonstrate creativity beyond standard mustard and ketchup.
The generosity of toppings is notable, essentially creating a fully dressed sandwich rather than a simple hot dog. All orders include tortilla chips with optional dips for $3, adding value to the base price. The combination feels more substantial than typical hot dog meals, justifying the higher price point compared to traditional hot dog stands. It succeeds as fast casual dining that’s interesting enough to choose deliberately rather than just convenient.
COLLIN’S Western Grill
COLLIN’S has recently revamped their menu to feature hearty Western staples and fusion classics, positioning itself as a family-friendly option that won’t break the bank.
Appetizers & Starters:
- Crispy Szechuan Mala Chicken Wings ($9.50++): Numbing Sichuan peppercorns and chili
- Calamari Rings ($12.50++): Fried squid with aioli
- Soup of the Day ($8++): Changes daily
- Caesar Salad ($10++): Classic romaine with dressing
- Garlic Bread ($6++): Toasted with herb butter
Signature Grills:
- Signature Roasted BBQ Pork Ribs ($20++ half slab, $35++ full slab): Fall-off-the-bone tender with smoky BBQ sauce
- USDA Ribeye ($38++): 250g premium beef
- Australian Lamb Chops ($32++): Herb-marinated
- Grilled Chicken Chop ($18++): Herb-crusted breast
- Salmon Steak ($24++): Atlantic salmon with lemon butter
Reserve Menu (Dry-Aged & Premium Cuts):
- Dry-Aged Ribeye ($58++): 28-day aged beef
- Wagyu Sirloin ($68++): Premium Japanese beef
- Tomahawk Steak ($88++): For sharing
- Bone Marrow ($15++): Roasted with toast
Pasta:
- Carbonara ($16++): Creamy bacon pasta
- Aglio Olio ($14++): Garlic and olive oil
- Bolognese ($16++): Meat sauce
- Seafood Marinara ($20++): Mixed seafood
Seafood:
- Fish & Chips ($18++): Beer-battered cod
- Grilled Prawns ($26++): Garlic butter
- Lobster Thermidor ($42++): Classic preparation
Sides:
- Mashed Potatoes ($6++): Creamy or truffle
- Fries ($6++): Hand-cut or sweet potato
- Coleslaw ($5++): Tangy cabbage slaw
- Grilled Vegetables ($7++): Seasonal selection
Wine Menu:
- Specially curated selections to pair with grills
- Red, white, rosé, and sparkling options
- Wines by glass (from $12++) or bottle (from $48++)
Start off the meal with their Crispy Szechuan Mala Chicken Wings at $9.50, where chicken is marinated with numbing Sichuan peppercorns and chili for a shiok, spicy kick. For mains, choose between pastas, seafood dishes, and their grilled meats, including their famed Signature Roasted BBQ Pork Ribs starting at $20 for half a slab, starring fall-off-the-bone tender pork ribs brushed with a smoky barbecue sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, dig into meats from the Reserve portion of their menu, and tuck into dry-aged steaks, as well as more premium cuts.
Paya Lebar Quarter has assembled a food and beverage collection that goes well beyond typical mall offerings. The diversity spans breakfast through late night, casual to upscale, local to international, with thoughtful attention to dietary requirements including vegetarian, halal, and allergy-conscious options.
What impresses most is the concentration of specialized concepts. Rather than generic chains, PLQ features restaurants focused on specific cuisines or formats executed well. Yakiniku Like reimagines solo Japanese BBQ, Western Mahua Noodles brings century-old traditions, elemen elevates vegetarian dining, and CHICHA San Chen prioritizes tea quality in an industry often focused elsewhere.
The pricing structure accommodates various budgets. Quick meals under $10 exist alongside premium experiences exceeding $50 per person. Most offerings land in the $12-25 range per person, reasonable for the quality and portions provided. Happy hour promotions and lunch specials add value for time-flexible diners.
Service quality varies by establishment but generally meets expectations. Higher-end venues like The Providore and Tipsy Bird deliver appropriately attentive service, while fast-casual concepts prioritize efficiency. The mall’s newness means facilities remain clean and well-maintained across venues.
If there’s a weakness, it’s that the sheer number of options creates decision paralysis. With 160 F&B outlets, first-time visitors might feel overwhelmed. Starting with the highlighted establishments in this review provides a solid foundation for exploring the broader offerings.
For East-siders, PLQ represents a significant upgrade to the dining landscape. No longer do residents need to trek West or into town for quality specialized cuisines. The mall successfully delivers both everyday dining and special occasion meals, casual gatherings and business lunches, quick bites and extended experiences.
Whether you’re seeking hand-pulled noodles made with century-old technique, properly executed Swiss comfort food, specialty coffee from Slayer machines, or customizable spice-level Indonesian chicken, PLQ delivers with consistency and quality that justifies repeat visits. The food scene here isn’t just convenient, it’s genuinely compelling, making Paya Lebar Quarter worth the journey even for those outside the immediate area.