Fine Wine Meets Omakase Zi Char
What happens when thoughtfully selected European wines meet one of Singapore's most unconventional Zi Char experiences?
On 21 July, our latest Wine Discovery Dinner brought guests to Chiderful Eating House, where Chef Kelvin Lim showcased his signature take on Omakase Zi Char—a concept that's quietly earned a loyal following at the unassuming City Plaza eatery.
Unlike a traditional Zi Char restaurant, there is no rigid menu. Every morning, Chef Kelvin heads to the wet market to source the freshest ingredients before deciding what he'll cook for the day, letting seasonality guide the dining experience. It's a philosophy shaped by more than two decades in hotel kitchens, but delivered in a warm, no-frills setting that feels more like dining in a friend's home than a restaurant.
For the evening, guests were treated to a seasonal menu featuring drunken chicken, spicy drunken chicken, smoked duck, soya grilled prawns, mixed vegetables, black pepper beef, and a comforting abalone pork knuckle pot, alongside a daily soup to begin the meal.
Each course found a companion in one of five carefully selected wines. We started with the lively Quinta da Raza Family #1, before exploring three expressions from Fattoria di Lamole (Chianti Classico, Riserva and Gran Selezione) showcasing the elegance and versatility of Sangiovese. The evening concluded with the beautifully structured Podere Il Cocco Brunello di Montalcino 2018, proving that great wine doesn't have to be reserved for European cuisine.
The evening was a reminder that some of the most memorable pairings come from stepping outside tradition. In Chef Kelvin's hands, familiar Zi Char dishes became something worth rediscovering and with the right glass in hand, so did the wines.
The conversations did not stop when dinner ended. Guests carried the evening's energy into a lively KTV session, where good wine, good food and good company gave way to laughter, music and a few enthusiastic performances. It was the perfect finish to a night built around discovery, connection and shared experiences.
We thank everyone who joined us and look forward to welcoming you to the next DV Club Event, where more stories, wines and unforgettable pairings await.