The first Putien opened on Kitchener Road in 2000 as a humble coffee shop specialising in Heng Hwa cuisine. After two decades, the food still retains its hearty, home-cooked feel on the palate and plate. As its name suggests, this casual Chinese restaurant has its roots traced to Putian, a coastal town in the Fujian province of the Middle Kingdom. It imports ingredients like its clams and sun-dried bee hoon from the town, creating a sustainable farming community for locals.
The bian rou soup, made with pork pounded into translucent wonton skins, is a masterclass in technique. And when the clams are in season, the simple stir-fry lets their natural sweetness shine. Look out for seasonal specials featuring rare ingredients from Putian, such as loquats in February and lychees in May, to experience the full breadth of Fujian cuisine. Even with 17 local outlets now, the food remains consistent and deeply satisfying.