South Korea’s celebrated grilled chicken restaurant, Song Gye Ok, has dramatically expanded its presence in Singapore with the official opening of its second outlet at The Centrepoint. Following its successful debut in the Telok Ayer district last year, the eatery, known for its focus on premium poultry cuts and expertly executed charcoal grilling, is now making its “heavenly” experience accessible to a wider audience. This expansion solidifies Singapore’s reputation as a key hub for authentic, high-quality Korean culinary experiences.
The Cult of the Charcoal Grill
Song Gye Ok, often frequented by prominent K-drama stars, has built a loyal following around its unique presentation of chicken, encapsulated by its bold tagline, “Waiting in Hell, Tasting in Heaven.” The core of the dining experience centers on precision charcoal grilling, where chefs prepare specialty cuts individually at interactive stations, ensuring optimal juiciness, texture, and flavor.
The restaurant elevates standard poultry into a sophisticated offering by specializing in six distinct anatomical cuts. Diners can explore rare options ranging from delicate neck fillets and softbone breast to the surprisingly rich chicken heart. Each piece is meticulously cooked over a searing charcoal fire, delivering a smoky depth that traditional methods often miss.
Beyond the grill, Song Gye Ok offers comfort in the form of elevated traditional Korean soups. A highly recommended choice is the Dageomtang, a rich, 12-hour slow-simmered chicken soup boasting a collagen-intensive broth, served alongside roasted chicken pieces and fresh regional vegetables.
Innovative Soups and Signature Flavors
Further diversifying its menu, the new outlet features an all-day collaboration menu with MODU centered around the classic Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). This limited-time offering introduces creative interpretations of the nourishing dish:
- Truffle Samgyetang: An earthy twist for upscale dining.
- Perilla Seed Samgyetang: A comforting bowl marked by a deep, nutty flavor profile.
- Hangover Samgyetang: Spiced with a proprietary sauce, targeting a restorative effect.
- Hanbang Samgyetang: Rooted in classic herbal medicine principles.
Patrons should also consider the restaurant’s staple dishes, including the expansive Assorted Grilled Chicken Platter, savory SGO Cheongguk Doenjang Stew, and fresh, hand-cut Kalguksu (knife-cut noodles). To complement the cuisine, a selection of house-crafted beverages, such as the fragrant Earl Grey Highball and the sweet, traditional rice drink Nurungji Sikhye, are available.
Bringing Old Seoul Charm to Singapore
The dining environment at The Centrepoint meticulously mirrors the dedication to authenticity found in the kitchen. The interior is designed with a hanok-inspired aesthetic, channeling the atmosphere of traditional old Seoul. Warm wood tones, subtle latticework, and the presence of open charcoal grills create an interactive, enveloping culinary space. This design philosophy is intended to transport guests, offering a holistic Korean dining journey that engages all the senses, not just the palate.
Song Gye Ok’s rapid expansion in Singapore underscores the growing demand for specialized, high-quality Asian dining concepts. The new Centrepoint location is set to become a destination for both dedicated K-food enthusiasts and casual diners seeking an authentic taste of sophisticated Korean grilling.