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2014-01-12
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Dian Xiao Er is one of our favourite Chinese restaurants when it comes to casual dining. Like the olden days, Dian Xiao Er (which literally translates to servers at inns or taverns) symbolizes a pit-stop for travellers to rest and replenish their energy before setting off to continue hectic journeys. In the modern context, I guess we all need to take a pit-stop to load up on calories before jetting off on a hectic journey of shopping!When we first arrived at Dian Xiao Er, we were warmly greeted
When we first arrived at Dian Xiao Er, we were warmly greeted by the receptionist with smiles. It warmed our hearts immediately and the vibe we received was friendly and homely. Sometimes, I feel that it is that extra effort taken by the staffs which made all the difference to a meal, be it a simple sincere greeting or a hearty smile.
Apart from the customer service which touched us, can the food at Dian Xiao Er impress us?
Prosperity Salmon Yu Sheng - 风生水起(三文鱼鱼生)- starting from S$22.80/++ for small portion
Admittedly, the Yu Sheng was not a dish that impressed. On a fairer note, it tasted pedestrian but adjusted to the liking of most Singaporeans whereby it uses sweet plum sauce as the main condiment over the sliced radish and array of other accompaniment sides.
Fish Maw Soup with Crab Meat & Conpoy - 四喜临门 (蟹肉干贝花胶鱼鳔羹)- starting from S$16.90/++ without crabmeat
Herbal Roast Duck (药材烤鸭)- S$12.90 onwards
The angelica herb (当归) bore a slight tinge of sweetness while ten wonder (十全) is the preferred safe choice for many and is what Dian Xiao Er is famous for. It would surely appeal to those with a more savoury appetite. Conversely, the wild ginseng (泡参) would suit those with an inclination for a stronger herbal taste and opting for this sauce would come at a slight premium, in terms of pricing.
Silver Cod Fish in Superior Soy Sauce - 年年有余 (豉油皇银鳕鱼)- S$25.90/++
The clever use of superior soy sauce subtly enhanced the flavours and allowed the natural freshness of the cod to be delivered across to the diners' palate.
Savoury Pork Roll "Firecrackers" - 鸿运当头(爆竹升升)- only available as part of CNY set menu
We were asked for our feedback as the chefs behind the scenes look to improve this new dish recently introduced to the menu. I liked that the chefs were receptive to diners' feedback and moving forward, I felt that constantly changing and adapting to the customers preference is key to success within the competitive F&B scene.
Overall, it was a good dish but requires some improvement to make it a more palatable dish.
Luxurious Seafood in Claypot - 富贵荣华(江南一品锅) - only available as part of CNY set menu
Osmanthus Jelly Dessert - 桂花糕 (S$3.60/++)
Dishes are generally served very quickly (even when we visit on a normal occasion, i.e. not tasting session) For those new to their dishes, the mains tend to be on the savoury side and incline towards heavier flavours and tastes (重口味). It would however be suitable to enjoy the dishes with white rice.
My takeaway from visiting Dian Xiao Er over the past years had always been consistent, that warm and friendly feeling which resonates a homely meal. Customer service have always been meticulous and surely lives up to the restaurant's name of Dian Xiao Er!
P.S: The Chinese New Year set is only available from 18 January 2014 onwards till 14 February 2014. Prices of the set menu range from S$108 for 3 pax to S$598 for 10 pax.
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