Contemporary interpretation of a traditional Chinese inn serves authentic cuisine & drinks
October 13th, 2014
A thoughtfully crafted take on traditional Chinese rural inns, Ke Zhan in Singapore combines authentic Chinese provincial cuisines with a nostalgic interior design to create a unique dining and sociable drinking experience. Opened in late 2013 within the Suntec City financial district of Singapore, Ke Zhan appeals with its clear differentiation from the plethora of conventional Chinese restaurants in the city. Eschewing the ubiquitous round banquet tables for unpretentious combinations of rustic timber bench table and seat settings, and heavy timber barrel tables and stools in the outdoor space, Ke Zhan seeks to replicate the atmosphere of a bygone era. Complementing the thematic decor, the kitchen serves up an impressive assemblage of authentic Chinese dishes- drawing mostly from the provincial cuisines of Sichuan and Canton (Guangdong), whilst the bar quenches thirsts with Chinese wines, plus a plentiful selection of sake, shochu, Japanese whiskies and beers.
Ke Zhan (translates as “traditional inn) is a new dining concept from the local BLVD Group – who are best known for their upscale gastrobars under the Boulevard banner. Conveniently located on the street level promenade at Millenia Walk,, adjacent to the Suntec City office complex, Ke Zhan offers both street front and interior spaces – ideal for casual lunches and after-work gatherings. A colorful row of artificial cherry blossom trees across the facade reference the country-side origins of the traditional inn and make for an attractive entrance.
Open daily, Ke Zhan serves lunch and dinner weekdays, with dinner only on the weekends. The compact interior seats around 70 guests – bookings are recommended for busy evenings and private functions.
Ke Zhan interior
Ke Zhan – specialty dish highlights
Diners at Ke Zhan can enjoy the simple provincial style cooking prepared in the open kitchen. The expansive menu features an abundant selection of reasonably priced dishes drawn mostly from two popular provincial cuisines – the bold and spicy flavour profiles of Sichuanese cooking, and the more refined tastes of Cantonese cuisine. A number of notable specialty dishes include the Poached Fish in Mala Broth 水煮鱼 ; Specialty Roast Chicken 客栈特色烤鸡; and Steamed Fish with Chopped Chili 剁椒蒸鱼块. In addition to the generous portions of the main dishes (designed to be shared), the kitchen also offer a large selection of Savoury Dishes, Grilled Skewers, and Dim Sum.
