Singapore's food scene is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and Por Kee Eating House 1996 is a gem among them. But here's where it gets interesting: this zi char restaurant stands out not for its unique dishes but for its mastery of classic Cantonese cuisine.
A Tiong Bahru Icon Since 1996
Por Kee has been a beloved fixture in the Tiong Bahru neighborhood for over two decades. With a menu boasting more than 40 Cantonese dishes, it's a haven for food enthusiasts. Despite ordering just three dishes during our visit, we were blown away by the quality and taste.
A Carnivore's Dream: Champagne Long Rib
The star of our meal was undoubtedly the Champagne Long Rib. At $12+ per piece, this dish is a carnivore's paradise. The pork rib, glistening with a red glaze and served with chye sim, is a sight to behold. The house-made champagne sauce adds a caramelized touch with a hint of alcohol, creating a flavor explosion. While some might find it slightly sweet, the fall-off-the-bone tenderness of the meat is hard to resist.
Cereal Prawns: A Classic, But...
Cereal prawns are a zi char staple, and Por Kee's version doesn't disappoint. The crunchy cereal flakes and curry leaves enhance the relatively fresh and sweet prawns. However, the size of the prawns was a slight letdown, leaving us wanting more substantial bites.
HK-style Steamed Fish: A Delicate Balance
For a well-rounded meal, we ordered the HK-style Steamed Fish, a dish that showcases the restaurant's finesse. The seabass, drenched in a light soy sauce, was cooked to perfection. The delicate flesh, with its subtle sweetness, contrasted beautifully with the more robust flavors of the other dishes, creating a harmonious balance.
A Nostalgic Ambiance
Stepping into Por Kee is like taking a step back in time. The old-school Chinese restaurant decor transports you to a different era, adding to its charm. This nostalgic vibe, combined with its famous zi char offerings, makes Por Kee a must-visit destination.
A Solid Choice for Zi Char Lovers
Por Kee is a top choice for those seeking delicious, traditional zi char food. The dishes we sampled were impressive, and we're confident the rest of the menu won't disappoint. For those exploring zi char options, Kok Sen Restaurant is another great pick, and for those across the border, our Johor Bahru zi char guide is a must-read.
Details and Ratings
Por Kee Eating House 1996 is located at 69 Seng Poh Lane, #01-02, Singapore 160069. It's a 12-minute walk from Outram Park MRT Station. The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 11 am to 2:30 pm and 5 pm to 10:45 pm.
Our review highlights the pros, including the succulent Champagne Long Ribs, the excellent HK-style Steamed Fish, and the charming old-school interiors. However, the Cereal Prawns' size and the sweetness of the ribs might be minor drawbacks for some.
And this is the part most people miss: Por Kee's ability to elevate classic dishes to new heights is what makes it truly special. So, do you agree that sometimes, the classics done exceptionally well can be more impressive than unique creations? Share your thoughts in the comments!
