Peppermint has once again pulled off a culinary coup, bringing back the inimitable Chef Beh Gaik Lean, the mastermind behind Penang’s one-MICHELIN-starred Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery. The result? A dazzling Peranakan buffet that’s a symphony of flavours, textures, and aromas.
Running from now to 11 August, the “Savour the Straits Peranakan Buffet” is a celebration of heritage cuisine, elevated to new heights by the combined talents of Chef Gaik Lean and Peppermint’s Chef de Cuisine Leon Yee. The duo’s passion for Peranakan flavours is evident in every dish, creating a spread that is as authentic as it is indulgent.
For durian lovers, the buffet is a dream come true. Every Friday and Saturday evening, Peppermint’s Urban Farm transforms into a durian paradise, offering a free-flow of the king of fruits in various delectable forms. From the creamy richness of Mao Shan Wang and Red Prawn to the complex sweetness of D24, the durian selection is simply divine. A unique highlight is the grilled durian, which imparts a smoky depth to the fruit’s natural sweetness.
Beyond the durian delights, the buffet boasts a breathtaking array of Peranakan classics. Chef Gaik Lean’s signature dishes, including the tangy Sambal Udang, the perfectly cooked Cincaru Rempah, and the vibrant Kerabu Bee Hoon with Tiger Prawn, are must-tries. Her Egg Belanda, Nasi Ulam, and Assam King Prawns are also crowd-pleasers, offering a taste of Penang’s rich culinary heritage.
Of these, the Kerabu Bee Hoon with Tiger Prawn stood out especially for the AVENUE ONE team. A refreshing burst of Nyonya brilliance, this rice vermicelli salad is a symphony of textures and tastes. The sweetness of prawns, the zest of kaffir lime, and the subtle heat of sambal belacan create a harmonious ensemble.
Chef Leon Yee’s contributions are equally impressive. His Ayam Buah Keluak, with its complex interplay of flavours, and the tender Itek Sio are standout dishes. Seafood lovers will be captivated by the Giant Stingray Kuah Lada and the fiery Rock Lobster with Charred Chilli Chuka. The accompanying appetisers, such as Ngoh Hiang with White Timun Achar and Gado Gado, add depth and variety to the buffet.
To enhance the dining experience, Peppermint has cleverly timed the buffet to coincide with Singapore’s National Day celebrations. On Saturday evenings, diners can enjoy the breathtaking spectacle of fireworks while savouring their meal, until 9 August.
The “Savour the Straits Peranakan Buffet” is priced from S$72++ per adult for weekday lunch to S$128++ per adult for weekend dinner with free-flow durians. Peppermint is located at 6 Raffles Boulevard, Level 4, PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore, Singapore 039594.
