Nestled in the nocturnal charm of Jalan Besar, Cha Chaan Teng (CCT) beckons diners on a journey to the vibrant streets of 1990s Hong Kong cinema, infused with the authentic flavors of Hong Kong’s beloved cha chaan tengs (茶餐厅).
With a muse drawn from Hong Kong’s dynamic food culture, CCT’s menu stands as a testament to the marriage of tradition and innovation. The tapas-style offerings, a delightful ensemble of bite-sized wonders, breathe new life into familiar classics, with each morsel bursting with the robust flavors of Hong Kong.
Embark on a culinary adventure where Frog legs take the stage in the Har Cheong Tin Gai (虾酱田雞/ Prawn Paste Frog), featuring a house-fermented shrimp paste. The Chun Gyun (春卷/ Spring Rolls) transforms into an open-faced delight with a sweet-spicy twist. Wu Tau Gou (芋頭糕/ Yam Cake) undergoes a modern metamorphosis, becoming fries accompanied by a hae bee hiam salt crafted from prawn heads and dried shrimp.
While innovation takes the lead, CCT pays homage to tradition with Siu Yuk, Siu Aap, and Char Siu, staying true to the HK-style. The Siu Yuk (燒肉/ Roasted Pork Belly) tantalizes with delicate crispy bites, while the Siu Aap (燒鵝/ Roasted Duck) undergoes a 48-hour air-drying process before roasting, served with a house-made XO Plum Sauce. Char Siew (叉燒/ Barbecued Pork Belly) is marinated overnight and presented with CCT’s specialty chili sauce.
As the sun sets and the ambiance turns intimate, CCT’s cocktails steal the spotlight. Creativity knows no bounds as they showcase HK’s rich flavors with spirited and balanced concoctions.
The Tong Pak Fu (唐伯虎), inspired by Stephen Chow’s Flirting Scholar (唐伯虎點秋香), blends gold rum and smoked plum-infused (乌梅) Coca Cola, creating a refreshing finish with hints of smokiness and Chinese Five Spice. For every mood, there’s the playful Nei Hoi Sum Jau Ho (你開心就好), a twist on the classic Pomelo Sago dessert, blending gin with house-made pomelo sago syrup and fresh lemon juice.
The 24-flavour tea (廿四老味茶), known for its herbal benefits, is transformed into a milk punch in Nei Tai Mm Dou (你睇唔到). Topped with a hawthorn CO2 foam, it offers a balanced sweetness, enhancing the drink’s complexity.
Beyond being a tapas and cocktail bar, CCT emerges as a vibrant community space, echoing the lively cha chaan tengs of Hong Kong. Sourcing select ingredients from fellow Jalan Besar businesses, CCT becomes more than a dining spot—it’s a community hub where interactions intertwine to create memories under the radiant glow of Jalan Besar. It’s not just a cocktail bar; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and a distinctive vibe.
CCT’s Prosperous CNY Offerings
As the Year of the Dragon unfolds, immerse yourself in the nostalgic charm of 90s Hong Kong at the HK-inspired tapas haven, Cha Chaan Teng (CCT). Stepping into the festive spirit, CCT invites you to embark on a culinary journey that fuses traditional Chinese New Year (CNY) festivities with the allure of 90s Hong Kong style.
Among the array of traditional CNY delights at CCT, the Prosperity Yu Sheng 吉祥魚生 takes center stage. Symbolizing abundance, this dish features meticulously cured sea bream and salt-aged scallops, harmoniously paired with an assortment of fresh vegetables. Drenched in the Chef’s special Kumquat Plum Sauce, it serves as a vibrant tribute to prosperity and good fortune.
Adding to the festive banquet is the Happiness Poon Choi 幸福盆菜 – a luxurious medley of prawns, abalones, and CCT’s signature house-made roasted pork, all nestled in a decadent 12-hour mushroom broth. This opulent creation is a true feast, epitomizing the essence of prosperity and joy for the coming year.
Reunion Dinner Extravaganza
For those seeking a more elaborate celebration, CCT presents reunion 9-course dinner set menus. Available for groups of 4-6 and 8-10, these menus showcase a culinary symphony featuring Oriental Wor-Tip, Fish Maw Soup, and the acclaimed Pork Lard Rice, along with a delectable choice of desserts. It’s an invitation to bring friends, family, and loved ones together to create cherished memories.
Zesty Libations to Usher in the Festivities
To infuse some spirit into the celebrations, CCT introduces the 5-Way Mandarin Orange cocktail. Crafted through five unique techniques, from Oleo Saccharum to CO2 Carbonation, this cocktail is a delightful symphony of zesty sweetness and effervescent magic. It serves as the perfect companion to elevate the festive cheer. Embrace the traditions of the season with a touch of 90s Hong Kong flair at Cha Chaan Teng.
Cha Chaan Teng Details:
- Address: 284 Lavender Street, Singapore 338802
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun (except Tuesday), 5 pm-late
- Reservations: +6597720752
Thank you, Publico, for offering this enchanting culinary experience.