As we step into the festive season, there’s one dish that takes center stage in Singapore during Chinese New Year – yu sheng (鱼生). This delightful raw fish salad has become an integral part of our celebrations, and it’s a tradition that’s uniquely Singaporean and Malaysian. With its rich symbolism and the joyous act of tossing it high for good luck, yu sheng is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural experience that brings families and friends together. In this article, we’re going to take you on a journey through some of the best yu sheng offerings in Singapore for the year 2024. So, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s not only delicious but also filled with auspicious meaning.
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What to Say When Preparing Yu Sheng
Yu Sheng is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, especially during the Chinese New Year, and it’s often associated with a ritual where specific phrases are said as each ingredient is added. These phrases are typically auspicious and convey well-wishes for the coming year. Here’s a traditional sequence of phrases and what you can say as you prepare Yu Sheng:
1. Raw Fish (usually salmon or other types of sashimi):
Say: “招财进宝!” (Zhāo cái jìn bǎo!) – Attract wealth and treasures!
2. Pomelo or Lime:
Say: “大吉大利!” (Dà jí dà lì!) – Good luck and great prosperity!
3. Pepper and Cinnamon Powder:
Say: “招桃花运!” (Zhāo táohuā yùn!) – Attract romantic luck!
4. Oil and Plum Sauce:
Say: “甜甜蜜蜜!” (Tián tián mì mì!) – Sweet and harmonious!
5. Shredded Carrots:
Say: “鸿运当头!” (Hóng yùn dāng tóu!) – Good luck is upon us!
6. Shredded Green Radish:
Say: “青春常驻!” (Qīngchūn cháng zhù!) – Eternal youth!
7. Crushed Peanuts and Sesame Seeds:
Say: “金银满屋!” (Jīn yín mǎn wū!) – Household filled with wealth!
8. Shredded White Radish:
Say: “风生水起!” (Fēng shēng shuǐ qǐ!) – Prosperity and success in business!
9. Crushed Fried Crisps:
Say: “好事连连!” (Hǎo shì lián lián!) – Continuous good fortune!
10. Plum or Sweet Sauce:
Say: “甜甜蜜蜜!” (Tián tián mì mì!) – Sweet and harmonious!
11. Fried Flour Crisps (Golden Pillow):
Say: “一本万利!” (Yī běn wàn lì!) – Making a thousand times the profit!
As you and your guests add these ingredients to the Yu Sheng, say the corresponding phrases to invoke good fortune and blessings for the coming year. It’s a fun and meaningful tradition to enhance the enjoyment of the dish and celebrate the Chinese New Year.
Best Yusheng in Singapore
1. Crystal Jade
In anticipation of the Lunar New Year, Crystal Jade’s array of dining outlets offers an impressive culinary journey for every palate, from casual to fine dining. Among their standout offerings, the Premium Yusheng takes center stage, boasting a delectable blend of flavors and textures. At its core lies a perfectly poached Boston Lobster Tail, accompanied by torched raw scallops that infuse smoky richness into the dish. The Yusheng’s uniqueness shines through an array of fresh and dried fruits, including red dragon fruit, green mango, longan, pomelo, apricot, and jackfruit, creating a tropical symphony of taste and color. With vibrant veggies like purple cabbage, crisp cucumber, and crispy yam strips, all harmoniously dressed in scallion oil and Okinawa acerola juice-infused plum sauce, this creation is a visual and gustatory masterpiece. Crystal Jade’s Premium Yusheng reimagines tradition with a modern twist, promising a Lunar New Year celebration filled with abundance and prosperity.
| Crystal Jade |
| Rates Premium Yusheng with Boston Lobster Tail, Aburi Scallop & Fruits (Small/Large): $150.42/$226.72 Reunion Yusheng with Norwegian Salmon (Small/Large): $58.64/$86.98 |
| Details Click here to view all locations |
| Links Facebook | Instagram | Website |
2. Man Fu Yuan 满福苑
Upholding a cherished tradition, Man Fu Yuan welcomes the Chinese New Year with the spectacular ‘Dragon’s Wealth’ Yu Sheng 龙飞凤舞喜捞生 ($888++, serves up to 10 guests). This culinary masterpiece features a magnificent dragon head and tail, symbolizing strength, power, health, and good luck. Each ‘Dragon’s Wealth’ Yu Sheng is meticulously crafted, adorned with opulent ingredients like rock lobster, sea urchin, ikura, shredded dried Hokkaido scallops, salmon sashimi, and crispy fish skin, elegantly dressed in honey miso golden peach dressing and shallot oil. Adding a fun twist, it comes with four lucky numbers for an auspicious New Year ahead. Available exclusively for dine-in with an advance order of 2 days, it serves up to 10 guests. Alongside, Man Fu Yuan presents a range of delectable Yu Sheng options, including Prosperity Yu Sheng, Abundance Yu Sheng, and Happiness Vegetarian Yu Sheng, all available for dine-in and takeaway, ensuring a festive celebration with loved ones.
| Man Fu Yuan 满福苑 |
| Rates ‘Dragon’s Wealth’ Yu Sheng 龙飞凤舞喜捞生 Prosperity Yu Sheng 瑞龙呈祥齐捞 |
| Details 📍 80 Middle Road Level 2 InterContinental Singapore, Singapore 188966 🕒 Mon – Fri, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm | Sat – Sun, 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm ☎️ +65 6825 1008 |
| Links Facebook | Instagram | Website |
3. Hua Ting Restaurant 華廳
Hua Ting Restaurant, a celebrated culinary gem nestled in Orchard Hotel since 1992, boasts an enduring reputation for its authentic Cantonese cuisine. With a rich history of accolades honoring its timeless signature dishes, expertly crafted dim sum, and sumptuous roast delights, Hua Ting continues to delight diners with a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Diners can savor the decadence of their yu sheng platters, with the “Dragon Dynasty” yu sheng stealing the spotlight. Adorned with South African abalone and Australian lobster, it presents a jaw-dropping dragon design on a bed of French ice lettuce, promising an auspicious start to any year. The restaurant invites patrons to share their dining experiences and reservations are welcomed for an unforgettable culinary journey.
| Hua Ting Restaurant 華廳 |
| Rates Hamachi (Japanese Yellow Tail) “Lo Hei” Yu Sheng (Small/Large): $88/$148 |
| Details 📍 Orchard Hotel Singapore, Level 2, 442 Orchard Rd, 238879 🕒 Daily, 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm ☎️ +65 6739 6666 |
| Links Website |
4. Shang Palace
Celebrate the Year of the Dragon in style with Shangri-La’s exquisite CNY feasts! Shangri-La, renowned for its culinary mastery, presents a tempting Yusheng selection featuring premium ingredients such as lobster, Scottish smoked salmon, and South African abalone. With a wealth of experience and a dedication to tradition, their skilled chefs craft these delectable dishes to perfection. Trust in the quality and safety of the ingredients, as Shangri-La ensures utmost freshness and rigorous quality control. Elevate your CNY home celebration with their Prosperity luxury combo set, including a Yusheng adorned with succulent abalone. Plus, take advantage of early bird discounts available until January 21, 2024. Place your order today and savor the flavors of prosperity with Shangri-La!
| Shang Palace |
| Rates Auspicious Dragon Yu Sheng ⾦⻰迎春: $238 Fortune Yu Sheng Poached Lobster ⻰⻢精神: $188 / $298 Fortune Yu Sheng Norwegian Smoked Salmon⻛⽣⽔起: $98 / $168 Fortune Yu Sheng Abalone 包罗万有: $128 / $238 |
| Details 📍 22 Orange Grove Rd, Singapore 258350 🕒 Mon – Fri, 12pm – 2.30 pm, 6pm – 10 pm | Sat – Sun, 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm ☎️ +65 6213 4473 |
| Links Website |
5. Yan 宴中餐馆
Step into the world of culinary artistry and cultural inspiration at YÀN, an enchanting dining destination nestled in National Gallery Singapore. YÀN invites you to indulge in a symphony of delectable Cantonese flavors, expertly crafted by a team of seasoned chefs. Each dish is meticulously executed, unveiling a repertoire of traditional Cantonese delicacies that span the continuum of pleasure. By deftly combining classic recipes with contemporary techniques, YÀN achieves a harmonious fusion of traditional flavors and modern culinary expertise. From the delicate artistry of dim sum to the tantalizing allure of perfectly roasted meats, each creation is a testament to their dedication and embodies the spirit of Cantonese cuisine. Among their culinary delights is the Prosperity Yellowtail Yusheng, a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of the Chinese New Year, featuring a symphony of fresh ingredients and exquisite flavors. Visit YÀN to savor this exquisite dining experience and embark on a journey of taste and tradition.
| Yan 宴中餐馆 |
| Rates Prosperity Salmon Yusheng: $78/$98 Prosperity Yellowtail Yusheng: $88/$108 |
| Details 📍 1 St Andrew’s Rd, #05-02 National Gallery, Singapore 178957 🕒 Daily, 11.30 am–2.30 pm, 6pm – 10 pm ☎️ +65 9272 7522 |
| Links Facebook | Instagram | Website |
6. Tajimaya Yakiniku
Indulge in the exquisite Prosperity Yusheng at Tajimaya Yakiniku, starting at just $88++. This lavish dish boasts an array of sashimi wonders, including hamachi, tuna, salmon, akami, swordfish, and salmon belly, catering to sashimi enthusiasts’ discerning palates. The sashimi’s exceptional freshness and premium quality shine through, making Tajimaya Yakiniku a trusted name for Japanese cuisine. This delightful creation seamlessly marries tradition and innovation, with vibrant veggies and a unique Ume Honey Dressing that adds a sweet Japanese twist. As the Dragon Year approaches, Tajimaya Yakiniku’s Prosperity Yusheng is the epitome of abundance and celebration, making it a must-try for a memorable New Year’s feast. Discover this culinary gem and elevate your festivities with Tajimaya Yakiniku’s culinary mastery.
| Tajimaya Yakiniku |
| Rates Tajimaya Prosperity Yu Sheng (5-6pax): $88 Tajimaya Prosperity Yu Sheng (8-10pax): $128 |
| Details VivoCity 📍 1 HarbourFront Walk, #01-102/103, Singapore 098585 🕒 Mon -Thur, 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm | Fri – Sun, 11.30am – 10pm ☎️ +65 6377 0070 Great World 📍 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #B1 – 115, Singapore 237994 🕒 Mon -Thur, 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm | Fri – Sun, 11.30am – 10pm ☎️ +65 6970 5976 |
| Links Facebook | Instagram |
7. Ju Xing Home 聚興家
Celebrate Chinese New Year 2024 at Ju Xing Home with their debut Yusheng, a harmonious blend of fried yam, carrots, purple sweet potatoes, dried oranges, ginger, melon, and cucumber. Diners have the option to choose between the sumptuous salmon or tender abalone, or even both, with prices starting at just $46 for a group of four to six. But the magic truly unfolds when you drizzle the house-made mixed fruits plum sauce over the dish, infusing it with delightful sweet and tangy notes. Ensure you reserve your Yusheng between January 8th and January 20th for either dine-in or takeaway, with collection available from January 22nd to February 25th at Ju Xing Home, located at B2-36A Takashimaya’s Event Square. Embrace tradition, relish in delectable flavors, and welcome the new year in grand style at Ju Xing Home.
| Ju Xing Home 聚興家 |
| Rates 发财鱼生 Prosperity Yu Sheng (Plain): $48 七彩鲍鱼鱼生 Prosperity Abalone Yu Sheng: $108 烟熏三文鱼鱼生 Smoked Salmon Prosperity Yu Sheng: $78 鸿运鱼生 Smoked Salmon + Abalone Prosperity Yu Sheng: $138 |
| Details 📍 Oasia Resort Sentosa Hotel, 23 Bch Vw Rd, #01-02 Palawan Ridge, 098679 🕒 Daily, 7am – 11am, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30 pm ☎️ +65 6818 3333 |
| Links Facebook | Instagram | Website |
8. Hanare by Takayama
Hanare by Takayama is a renowned haven for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts, celebrated for its culinary mastery and authenticity. With a legacy steeped in the art of Japanese cooking, the restaurant exudes expertise and authority in the realm of culinary delights. Their star offering, the yusheng dish, comes in two sizes – the regular yusheng at $58 boasts a vibrant medley of vegetables and eight slices of premium salmon, while the larger variant, priced at $88, doubles the delight with 16 luscious salmon slices. Accompanied by a delectable house-made yuzu and plum sauce, each bite is a symphony of flavors. For those seeking an opulent experience, the option to enhance the meal with Hokkaido scallops ($38) or Japanese abalone ($58) is an irresistible proposition. The restaurant’s dedication to sourcing the freshest ingredients and meticulous adherence to quality standards has solidified its reputation as a trusted epicurean destination, making every visit an exquisite culinary journey. Explore and savor the remarkable flavors of Japan at Hanare by Takayama, where every dish is a testament to their culinary prowess.
| Hanare by Takayama |
| Rates Regular Yusheng: $58 Large Yusheng: $88 |
| Details 📍 391 Orchard Road #03-07, Takashimaya Shopping Centre Ngee Ann City, 238872 🕒 Daily, 11.30am – 10pm ☎️ +65 8298 9369 |
| Links Facebook | Instagram | Website |
9. Ya Ge 雅閣
Renowned for its culinary prowess, Ya Ge offers an unforgettable Chinese New Year (CNY) dining experience. With a team of skilled chefs, the restaurant expertly crafts CNY menus featuring premium ingredients like Australian lobster, abalone, Chilean cod, and crab. Their standout yusheng rendition, starting at $95.92, is a true delight, featuring raspberry-flavored dragon pudding treats atop crispy strips of eel, yellowtail, carrots, radish, and pickled ginger, all elevated by a zesty passion fruit and kumquat dressing. Ya Ge’s consistent quality has earned it numerous accolades and the trust of its patrons, ensuring a memorable CNY celebration. Whether dining in or taking out, indulge in Ya Ge’s exquisite CNY offerings and savor the flavors of tradition.
| Ya Ge 雅閣 |
| Rates Crispy Golden Eel and Yellowtail Yu Sheng (6 persons): $88 Crispy Golden Eel and Yellowtail Yu Sheng (10 persons): $128 |
| Details 📍 1 Tras Link, Level 3 Orchid Hotel Singapore, Singapore 078867 🕒 Mon – Sun. 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm ☎️ +65 6818 6831 |
| Links Facebook | Instagram | Website |
10. Sakae Sushi
Dining at Sakae Sushi is a delightful experience in Singapore. The restaurant, known for its many conveniently located outlets, offers an array of mouthwatering dishes, with their signature Rong Yu Sheng taking center stage. This exquisite dish features a harmonious blend of fresh salmon sashimi, crisp white radish, flavorful gingers, brown melon, carrot, cucumber, lettuce, tantalizing jellyfish, candied lime, crunchy peanuts, sesame seeds, and Pok Chui crackers, all elegantly drizzled in yu sheng plum sauce. The highlight is undoubtedly the sliced salmon sashimi, renowned for its exceptional freshness. Sakae Sushi’s appeal also lies in its affordable prices and vibrant, casual ambiance. For those seeking an even more indulgent experience, the Golden Abalone Yusheng offers an enticing variety of ingredients, including abalone, seaweed, seasoned jellyfish, and more. Come savor the flavors at Sakae Sushi and discover the culinary treasures that await.
| Sakae Sushi |
| Rates Spring Yusheng (3 – 4 pax): $55.94 Spring Yusheng (6 – 8 pax): $79.69 Golden Abalone Yusheng: $128.88 |
| Details Sengkang 📍 1 Anchorvale Street #01-32 Singapore 544835, Sengkang General Hospital 🕒 Daily, 11.00am – 9.00pm (Last Order: 8:30 pm) ☎️ +65 60122606 / sengkanggh@sakaesushi.com.sg East Coast Road 📍 19 East Coast Road #02-01 Singapore 428746 🕒 Mon – Thu, 11am – 9.30pm | Fri – Sun, Eve of PH & PH, 11am – 10.30pm ☎️ +65 62422610 / sakae_ecr@sakaesushi.com.sg Tradehub 21 📍 28 Boon Lay Way #01-175/176 Tradehub 21 Singapore 609971 🕒 Mon – Thu, 11.30am – 9.30pm | Fri – Sun, Eve of PH & PH, 11am – 10pm ☎️ +65 6795 2201 / tradehub21@sakaesushi.com.sg |
| Links Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok | Website |
Where To Eat Yusheng In Singapore
As we usher in the Lunar New Year of 2024, let’s embrace the traditions and flavors that make this season so special. Yu sheng, with its vibrant colors and symbolic ingredients, is a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings good fortune and togetherness. We’ve taken you on a journey through some of the best yu sheng options in Singapore, each with its own unique twist on this beloved dish. Whether you prefer the classic combination or want to try something innovative, these yu sheng offerings are sure to make your celebration memorable. So gather your family and friends, utter auspicious phrases as you toss your yu sheng, and savor the delicious flavors of the season. May the Year of the Dragon bring you prosperity, happiness, and a table filled with delectable delights.恭喜发财 (Gong Xi Fa Cai)!
