Singapore’s nascent specialization trend for Samgyetang (Korean ginseng chicken soup) expands this month with the debut of Bomul, a new culinary establishment in Chijmes, arriving on the heels of the city-state’s first dedicated eatery, Modu. Bomul, set to officially open on November 27, distinguishes itself by offering an unprecedented 10 variations of the restorative Korean soup, utilizing premium, locally-sourced ingredients and complex, health-focused broths, marking a significant step in the sophisticated presentation of Korean cuisine in Singapore.
The arrival of Bomul signals growing consumer demand for this traditionally restorative dish. Until this year, specialty restaurants focused solely on samgyetang were non-existent in Singapore. Modu, located at Mandarin Gallery, introduced the concept and quickly gained popularity, often drawing hour-long queues. Bomul, situated on the ground floor of the historic Chijmes complex, now elevates the offering by presenting the broadest menu of samgyetang recipes available locally.
Elevating the Traditional Broth
What sets Bomul apart is its rigorous attention to ingredient quality. The restaurant sources local, organic free-range spring chickens, specifically raised for 50 to 60 days to yield optimal texture and flavor. Each young chicken is meticulously stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, garlic, and jujubes before being slow-cooked in a complex, 18-ingredient broth designed for maximum health benefits.
This carefully concocted broth is infused with various traditional Korean and Chinese medicinal ingredients, transforming the soup into a nutritional powerhouse. Examples include dried gardenia fruit, traditionally used for liver support; polygonatum odoratum for moisturization; deer antler for enhanced vitality; and mulberry leaves for cardiovascular health. This focus aims to replicate the traditional belief that samgyetang is as beneficial as natural medicine.
A Menu of Ten Specialty Flavors
Bomul’s extensive menu experiments with classic and contemporary flavor profiles, moving far beyond the standard preparation. The 10 specialized samgyetang options include:
- Collagen ($29): Featuring aged premium ginseng and oriental herbs.
- Spicy Cure ($32): An intense, extra-spicy preparation with chili peppers and fresh herbs.
- Vitality ($40): Infused with black ginseng, processed using the traditional kujeongkupo steaming and drying method.
- Rejuvenation ($36): Characterized by the deep, complex flavor of aged black garlic.
- Black Truffle ($38): A contemporary, aromatic take on the classic soup.
- Anti-Ageing ($79 for two): A luxurious combination featuring herbal chicken, ginseng, octopus, and abalone.
For those seeking an alternative, the menu also offers Samgyejuk (Korean ginseng chicken porridge), maintaining the same commitment to premium spring chicken. Signature porridge selections include the maesaengi abalone porridge, utilizing fine, thread-like maesaengi seaweed known for its rich flavor, and subtly sweet pumpkin porridge.
Beyond the Soup Bowl
To complement the rich, flavorful stews, Bomul offers an array of Korean side dishes and snacks, appealing to diverse tastes. Selections range from savory items like duck and chicken breast ddukgalbi ($22) and assorted savory pancakes (minari or seafood, from $22) to more indulgent night-time snacks such as spicy chicken feet ($18). These snacks are ideal pairings for traditional Korean beverages, including makgeolli (rice wine).
Limited-Time Opening Promotion
In celebration of its debut, Bomul is offering a limited-time 1-for-1 promotion on all samgyetang flavors, excluding the Anti-Ageing option. This promotion runs from November 27 through December 6, available while stocks last.
Bomul is located at 30 Victoria Street, Chijmes, #01-11/12, Singapore 187996. The restaurant operates from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday and Sunday, extending hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Singapore’s expanding Korean culinary landscape suggests that consumers are increasingly ready to support specialized dining concepts that emphasize authenticity and health-conscious preparation.