There are a few players in the roast duck market in Singapore, but thereās none quite like Dian Xiao Er, who celebrate 20 years since their inception this 2022. Today, their latest two openings at Downtown East and City Square Mall bring them to 16 locations spread across the islandāsatisfying a craving for their herbal roast duck has never been easier.
Their Signature Herbal Roasted Duck comes in three variations: Duck Roasted w Angelica Herb (from $17.60++), Duck Roasted w Ten Wonder Herbs (from $17.90++), and Duck Roasted w Wild Ginseng (from $18.60++), but their bestselling is the first with angelica herb, AKA dang gui. Fun fact: Dian Xiao Er sells more than 20,000 roast ducks a month!
Unlike some of the tough, bony birds you might get elsewhere, Dian Xiao Er only uses ducks from Cherry Valley, who are the worldās leading breeder of Peking ducks. These are roasted daily in specially-procured ovens, which ensure that every duck is cooked to perfection.
Complementing the duck is an aromatic, herbal gravy that goes exceptionally well with plain rice, but youāll find the meat itself is tasty on its ownāthanks to long hours of marination in a secret blend of spices and herbs.
Another must-try dish here is Signature Wheatgrass Tofu with Seafood (from $16.60++), starring silken house-made tofu thatās been infused with wheatgrass for its pale green shade. Donāt let that put you off, because itās got all the nutritious properties of wheatgrass, without its fresh, green flavour.
If thatās too tame for your palate, order yourself a portion of Dian Xiao Erās Hotplate Fiery Sambal Squid & Prawns with Petai (from $18.90++). Their take on the popular BBQ seafood dish sees a house-made sambal, and stalks of fresh lemongrass stalks fried in for that extra kick.
While weāre on spicy seafood dishes, the Sliced Garoupa in Assam Style (from $23.90++) is one deserving of an extra bowl of rice. Tangy and not overwhelmingly spicy, thereās also slices of pineapple here that lend a touch of sweetness.
Youāll find your usual suspects of eggplant and ladiesā fingers in this pot, while fussy eaters will appreciate the fleshy, boneless garoupa fillets.
Finally, cleanse your palate and get your daily dose of greens with Lotus Roots, Sweet Pea, Water Chestnut with Macadamia Nuts (from $15.30++). This plate of crunchiness looks plain, but it allows the ingredients to shine, with the natural sweetness of sweet peas and water chestnuts complemented by the earthy macadamia nuts.
If youāre an East-sider, youāll be pleased to know this new outlet at Downtown East, while maintaining touches of traditional decor, is also bright and spacious. Thereās even a large round table by the window that would be great for family gatherings.
For those living in the more central parts of Singapore, the City Square Mall outlet means youāve got an outlet near you too.Ā
And if youāre always stumped by the queues for a meal at Dian Xiao Er, get a headstart on mealtimesāwhether itās to dine-in or da baoāand enjoy up to 25% off on regular a la carte items at specific times daily. Terms and conditions apply.
Downtown East
Address: 1 Pasir Ris Close, #02-319, E!Avenue, Singapore 519599
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 3pm, 4:30pm to 9:30pm
Tel: 6970 2550
City Square Mall
Address: 180 Kitchener Road, #03-37, City Square Mall, Singapore 208539
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 3pm, 4:30pm to 9:30pm
Tel: 6970 0612
Website
Dian Xiao Er is not a halal-certified eatery
Photos taken by John Lery Villanueva
This post was brought to you by Dian Xiao Er
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