Introduction

As the Year of the Snake approaches on January 29, 2025, Singaporean chefs are embracing the culinary challenge of creating unique and breathtaking dishes that pay homage to this year's zodiac animal. Unlike the dazzling dragon, the snake is often viewed as less auspicious in Chinese culture, prompting restaurateurs to tread carefully in blending art with tradition.

Featured Chef and Dish

Executive Chef Aaron Tan of Man Fu Yuan at the InterContinental Singapore has perfected the art of crafting a stunning snake-shaped yusheng, stretching a grand 1.5 meters in circumference. 'The design has to convey grandeur, without crossing into the realm of being too ferocious or overly cute,' says Tan. His creation, the 'Blazing Snake Fortune Yusheng,' is not just a dish; it's an experience, featuring eight intricately designed snakes that symbolize blessings of peace, joy, and health, complemented by luxurious ingredients like abalone and rock lobster.

Eel: A Symbolic Ingredient

This year, eel also takes center stage in celebratory feasts, serving as a symbolic representation of snakes. Influences from various regions, including China, Japan, and Thailand, contribute to its presence in dishes like crispy deep-fried eel yusheng and grilled unagi claypot rice, delivering both flavor and a visual feast.

Booking Trends

Restaurants are already witnessing a surge in bookings for reunion dinners leading up to the festivities. Iconic dining spots including Jade at The Fullerton Hotel, Li Bai at Sheraton Towers, and Wan Hao at the Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel, are fully booked for Chinese New Year’s Eve. Not only that, the trend of increased bookings suggests that food lovers are eager to indulge more than last year.

A Sneak Peek into Some Delicious Offerings:

- **Jade**: Their Deluxe 'Sure Win' Yusheng ($688++) features a 3D snake made from steamed pineapple slices and is served with exquisite Norwegian smoked salmon and marinated abalone. - **Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant**: Here, you can enjoy eel in both crispy yusheng platter ($80 or $158) and claypot rice with grilled eel ($288 for six). - **Shang Palace**: This venue offers a visually stunning yusheng featuring a colorful mango and zucchini snake design ($268++). Guests can also enjoy a fun, oversized Snakes and Ladders lohei session on New Year's Day. - **Tablescape**: Sample the snake-shaped seafood yusheng ($188) topped with Josper-grilled octopus and local lobster for a unique twist. - **Madame Fan**: Take delight in their Bountiful Blessings halibut yusheng ($198++) that includes refreshing fruits like longan and mango, drizzled with honey grain mustard yuzu yogurt dressing.

Conclusion

With culinary innovations and rich traditions combining for this year's celebrations, now is the time to make your reservations at these top dining venues. This festive season not only promises a table filled with sumptuous dishes but also an experience steeped in culture and creativity. Whether indulging in elaborate yusheng or savoring fresh eel dishes, make sure you’re part of Singapore's vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations that will leave you breathless—and taste buds tingling!

Reserve Now!

Don't wait until it's too late! Book your table in advance to secure a spot at these highly coveted restaurants. Dive into the Year of the Snake with culinary masterpieces that are bound to impress!