ASU, located at 30 Labrador Villa Road, Singapore 119189, is the latest venture by Chef Ace Tan. Open for dinner only from Wednesday to Sunday, 6 pm to 11 pm, this new restaurant offers a fresh and innovative perspective on Chinese cuisine, blending it with influences from Korea, Japan, and Thailand.
A Personal and Unique Name
Ace Tan has always been known for his creative restaurant names, from “Ards” to “Aisa” and even a stint at “1-V:U,” a name with a peculiar lack of consonants. However, ASU, his latest creation, has a deeply personal connection. The name comes from the way his Korean colleagues mispronounced his own name during his time in Seoul. Though unintentional, this marks his most personal project yet, after years of refining his culinary vision.
Chef Tan’s Journey to ASU
Tan has long been recognized for his culinary talent, but his path to success has been unconventional. Despite being technically proficient and having a clear vision, he had struggled to find the right platform to fully showcase his skills. With ASU, he has finally found a space where both his ideas and the diners’ desires align perfectly.
Opened in October last year, ASU’s “Origins” menu offers a fresh take on progressive Asian cuisine. While some feared the menu might delve too deeply into esoteric discussions of Chinese food and its cultural connections, Tan’s vision proved both accessible and exciting. One standout moment came when he reinvented the classic orh luak (oyster omelette), transforming it into a crystal ball that quickly won over diners.
A Balanced Approach: Flavors Without Ego
At ASU, Tan strikes a balance between intellectual exploration and culinary delight. The food is undeniably Chinese but with subtle influences from Korea, Thailand, and Japan. His diverse career experiences and focus on flavor have shaped a menu that is both innovative and approachable. The dishes are complex yet easy to appreciate, making each meal a unique and satisfying experience.
A Beautiful Dining Space
Located in a tranquil bungalow in Labrador Park, ASU offers a serene, destination-dining experience. The restaurant is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from the bustle of the city. The décor is subtly Oriental, with original artwork depicting Chinese winters to complement the seasonal menu. A traditional Chinese medicine cabinet serves as the backdrop for the open kitchen, while diners sit at a winding counter, surrounded by intricately painted picture cards that explain the ingredients used in each dish.
A Menu That Delights the Senses
The dinner menu at ASU starts at S$188, with additional supplements costing an extra S$100 for a complete experience. One of the highlights is Tan’s take on orh luak, which is transformed into a delicate kuzu starch dumpling filled with oysters marinated in sheng yan sauce. The dish retains the signature chili-vinegar kick of the traditional oyster omelette but without the egg, making it a novel and satisfying bite.
Other notable dishes include pidan tofu, a smooth tofu custard topped with crunchy clam and century quail egg. The dish is finished with a touch of chili oil, adding an unexpected heat that creeps up as you eat. Tan’s VIP version of Chinese New Year prawn rolls features a crunchy spring roll skin filled with sakura ebi and minced drunken prawn—a refined take on a classic dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
For an extra S$20, the crab gyoza is worth the price. Handmade and filled with winter snow crab meat and roe, the delicate skin is pan-seared to perfection, with crispy tuile topping that adds texture. The dish is juicy and flavorful, providing a satisfying end to the meal.
A Memorable Dining Experience
ASU is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where tradition meets innovation. Chef Ace Tan has created a space where diners can experience Chinese cuisine in a completely new light, without losing the essence of what makes it special. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking for an exceptional dining experience, ASU offers something truly unique.
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