It seems a little funny how I’ve been to PeraMakan probably close to 20 times already over the last few years, but somehow never thought of writing a post on it.

I guess it could be because Peranakan food doesn’t feature strongly on my favourite foods list, though I do like it quite a bit as well. Peranakan food sometimes seems like the forgotten second cousin, in the culinary world – it has great history, needs a lot of skill to prepare, and tastes really unique and also delicious yet somewhat neglected by many and doesn’t get quite so much recognition, I feel.

I wouldn’t say I’m an authority on authentic Peranakan food, but I do know a good beef rendang when I taste one. The one at PeraMakan has to be the best beef rendang I’ve had in Singapore so far.

Superb flavours in the thick, viscous sauce and wonderfully tender chunks of beef and tendon that melt in your mouth. Absolutely lovely. The rest of the dishes there are pretty good too.

The idea of eating a poisonous (when not prepared properly) nut/seed seems a little strange to me, but I guess since many people have been eating this quintessential Peranakan dish for years without anything wrong I suppose it is alright.

The Ayam Buah Keluak at PeraMakan was again nicely done with a thick, tasty sauce over the tender chicken, and a slightly sharp and bold tasting spiced nut flesh filling, which I quite liked.

The Ayam Kleo, which is like chicken curry, also never fails to disappoint with its milky, fine taste and texture. The chap chye is quite enjoyable as well, it was not too soggy and well seasoned (both pictured in the first image).

I also liked their Sambal Belachan ladies’ fingers or okra salad, as the spicy and sour toppings of onions, belachan and tiny shrimps lent a good bite to the crunchy okra.

As for desserts, I’m not really a big fan of Asian desserts but I must say I do love their Durian Chendol. This comes with a generous dollop of rich, strong tasting durian paste which really complements the milky, sweet chendol.

As for pricing, I can’t remember the exact prices of all the dishes but I think they range from about $10 (vegetable dishes) to $16 (beef rendang etc), and around $5 or $6 for the desserts. It probably comes up to around $20-$30 per person, depend on what you order. I always feel satisfied after a meal there though, so this is fine with me.

Check it out if you like Peranakan food… or Beef Rendang!

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Level 3, Keppel Club
10 Bukit Chermin Road
Singapore 109918 (5 minutes drive from Vivo City/HarbourFront)
Tel: 65 6377 2829
(They have a East Coast branch at Santa Grand Hotel too)

Website: http://www.peramakan.com/

Open everyday for lunch from 11.30am to 3.00pm and dinner from 6.00pm to 10.00pm, including Sundays and public holidays.