Chatterbox is not just a restaurant; it is an institution, a marker of celebration, a place where special occasions are elevated by the simple joy of a well-prepared meal. And now, where better to gather with your loved ones to celebrate Chinese New Year (CNY) than at Chatterbox?
The CNY set menu, priced at $80++ per guest (minimum two), was crafted with the spirit of reunion and togetherness in mind.
A proper Lunar New Year meal begins with the ritualistic tossing of yusheng. At S$88++, Chatterbox’s rendition of this auspicious dish was a vibrant medley of fresh raw fish, crispy crackers, and an intricate balance of sweet, tangy sauces. The dish delivered in both symbolism and taste—a harmonious blend of textures and flavours, and a promising start to the meal.
The menu commenced with a Mini-trio Appetiser, featuring Golden Crumb Scallop, Kueh Pie Tee, and Chicken Satay. Each bite was a nostalgic embrace. The kueh pie tee was reminiscent of those we used to snack on at street fairs, its crisp shell giving way to a well-seasoned, slightly sweet turnip filling. The satay had just the right char and peanut sauce.
Mini-tri Appetiser. Photo © Asia 361
Moving to the Sharing Plates, the Wok-fried Prawns with Homemade Soy Sauce were a standout, cooked just right, their briny sweetness enhanced by the rich, umami-laden sauce. The Deep-fried Trout with Grilled Chilli Paste was another highlight, boasting a beautifully crisped exterior and a smoky, slightly spicy glaze that lent it an irresistible depth. Then came the Braised Sea Cucumber, Abalone, and Mushrooms with Seasonal Vegetables, a dish that spoke of tradition and indulgence. The abalone was tender, the mushrooms earthy, and the sauce tied it all together in a way that felt utterly celebratory.
Braised Sea Cucumber, Abalone, and Mushrooms with Seasonal Vegetables. Photo © Asia 361
Yet, it was the return of the Mandarin Chicken Rice that held the most weight for me. How many bowls of this iconic dish had I devoured in my childhood? The fragrant, glistening rice, the tender poached chicken, the triumvirate of chilli sauce, dark soy sauce, and ginger paste—it was all there. If the chicken rice at hawker stalls are considered rustic, Chatterbox’s version is, well, an elegant and cleaner rendition of this classic Singaporean dish.
Mandarin Chicken Rice. Photo © Asia 361
The meal ended on a tropical note with Chatterbox’s Signature Coconut Ice Cream. Light, creamy, and refreshing, it provided the perfect balance to the richness of the dishes before it.
For those looking to elevate their meal further, Chatterbox offers additional indulgences, such as a Mini Portion of Bak Kut Teh (S$10++), featuring tender Sakura pork ribs in a herbal broth. The Mini Portion of Lobster Laksa (S$15++) is another luxurious option with its rich coconut broth, brimming with Boston lobster, quail eggs, and fish cake.
No celebration is complete without a toast, and diners can choose between Castillo Perelada Cava Brut NV or Osmanthus Oolong Sparkling Tea (S$55++ per bottle).
Chatterbox has long been woven into Singapore’s culinary fabric, and its Lunar New Year menu pays homage to its legacy while embracing the spirit of celebration.
Chatterbox
333 Orchard Rd
#05-03 Hilton Singapore Orchard
Singapore 238867
