Rochester Commons’ latest addition sees HUI, a cosy restaurant set in a picturesque colonial mansion. Helming the kitchen is Chef Liinson Heng as he showcases his culinary chops with his creative take on authentic Chinese flavours and French gastronomy. Previously the Chef De Partie of now-defunct three Michelin-starred Joel Robuchon restaurant and Chef De Cuisine of Olivia Cassivelaun Fancourt, the young chef’s French training does show in his confluence cooking.
Highlights of the menu
The concept prides itself on the seasonality of produce so the best way to acquaint yourself with the unique style of cuisine is through the seven-course menu ($158). You’d come to notice that dishes here are intentionally plated to please your cameras before your tastebuds. But by no means does it show a lack in the flavour department.
Starting off with mouth-watering blue crab tartare, the sweet crustacean is masked behind razor-thin layers of beetroot and topped off with fine Kaluga queen caviar. The elegant dish holds a surprise hidden beneath the ruby red dome: Szechuan avocado puree. This creamy yet bright expression is the key to uplifting the dish with vibrancy.
There are also creamy Hyogo oysters. Here it is gently poached and served with savoy cabbage, smoke-kissed for a textural crunch. It comes along with a mildly spiced chilli beef mince but we reckon to add just a tinge to avoid overshadowing the oyster. The fork-tender Juku wagyu was equally satisfying as it was paired with delicate yet woody morel mushrooms and Szechuan pepper jus.
If the dinner menus seem too big of a commitment to the unfamiliar style of cuisine, consider the modest three-course lunch priced affordably at $38. This approachable preview will most likely charm your tastebuds with its fresh produce and balanced flavours.
Space and ambience
The Manchurian-themed main dining hall is set to fit 60 diners in its cosy yet convivial space. Taking centre stage is none other than the staggering wall-to-ceiling LED screen illuminating the entire floor – highly instagrammable and a great way to distract the kids. While the indoor space is suited to large groups and families, it is the alfresco area that turns up the romance when the sun goes down. For more privacy, two VIP rooms are available fully furnished with a sound system and lounge chairs. Perfect for business, parties or the occasional cigar toking session.
Book here.