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Japanese Sake Takes Center Stage in Singapore’s Culinary Scene “Discover New Harmonies with Japanese Sake” Unveils a Refined Gastronomic Journey Featuring 38 Pairings Across the City’s Most Celebrated Tables
This year’s “Discover New Harmonies with Japanese Sake” campaign brings together 19 culinary destinations, each offering a distinct lens into the art of pairing. Among the standout participants are the Michelin-starred WHITEGRASS, where French finesse meets Japanese elegance; the genre-defying NOURI, known for its cross-cultural storytelling; the bold and convivial The Boiler Seafood Bar & Restaurant, a local favourite for Cajun-style feasts; and the refined The Spot, where modern European cuisine is infused with Southeast Asian flair. From haute cuisine to heartwarming comfort fare, these restaurants have crafted pairings that go beyond seafood—embracing meat and vegetables—to reveal sake’s quiet brilliance across the plate. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or newly curious, this campaign invites you to experience sake as a versatile companion to global gastronomy.
Where Harmony Meets Haute Cuisine: A Curated Look at Four Distinctive Culinary Collaborations
– WHITEGRASS (Michelin-starred)
Michelin-starred | French-Japanese Fine Dining | Chijmes, Singapore
Located within the historic Chijmes enclave, WHITEGRASS is a sanctuary of refined French cuisine delicately laced with Japanese sensibility. Under the direction of Head Chef Takuya Yamashita, whose culinary journey spans Michelin-starred kitchens in Tokyo and Paris, the restaurant is known for its nature-inspired philosophy and poetic plating. For this year’s campaign, WHITEGRASS presents two exquisite pairings:
- Lobster with Kabu and Yellow Yuzu, a dish that balances oceanic sweetness with earthy turnip and citrus brightness, paired with Nanbu Bijin Junmai Ginjo Ginginga, a sake that enhances umami while leaving a clean, lingering finish.
- Amadai with Sauce Dugléré and Tokachi Mushroom, where the creamy elegance of French sauce meets the subtle depth of Japanese mushrooms, elevated by the dry, structured grace of Kuromatsu Hakushika Yamada Nishiki Karakuchi Junmai Silk. Each pairing is a study in restraint and refinement, echoing the restaurant’s ethos of seasonality and cross-cultural elegance.
– NOURI (Michelin-starred)
Michelin-starred | Crossroads Cuisine | Amoy Street, Singapore
At NOURI, food is philosophy. Helmed by Brazilian Chef Ivan Brehm, whose heritage spans six cultures and whose resume includes Per Se and The Fat Duck, NOURI is built on the idea that no cuisine exists in isolation. Its “Crossroads Thinking” approach explores the intersections of global culinary traditions, resulting in dishes that are both intellectually provocative and emotionally resonant.
- Black Gold, a composition of fragrant Koshihikari rice, Kampot peppercorns, and black fig sofrito, finished with gold leaf, reflects the timeless exchange of rice and spice. It is paired with DASSAI Future – with Farmers, a sake that celebrates the purity of rice and the dedication of its cultivators.
- Boeuf à la Presse, featuring A5 Keisan-gyu wagyu ribeye with crisp white kimchi and pressed jus, is a meditation on meat as sustenance and ritual. The pairing with Heavensake Label Noir bridges French joie de vivre with Japanese craftsmanship, creating a dialogue across continents. NOURI’s pairings are not just culinary—they are cultural narratives told through flavour.
– The Boiler Seafood Bar & Restaurant
Homegrown Cajun Seafood Boil | Raffles Avenue, Singapore
Founded in 2008, The Boiler is Singapore’s spirited answer to the Southern seafood boil—bold, communal, and unapologetically flavourful. Led by Chef Jay, whose 18 years of experience infuse every pot with precision and passion, the restaurant is known for its eleven-spice signature blend and lively dining atmosphere.
- The Signature Chilli Crab, slow-cooked in a rich, spicy-sweet sauce, is paired with Keigetsu CEL24 Junmai Daiginjo 50, whose fruity notes and clean finish refresh the palate between bites.
- The Grilled Lobster with Secret Spiced Glaze, flame-kissed and caramelised, finds its match in Hourai Junmai Daiginjo Irootoko, a sake with melon aroma, creamy mouthfeel, and crisp finish. The Boiler’s pairings bring sake into the realm of comfort and celebration, proving that elegance can be found in the most joyful of feasts.
– The Spot
Contemporary European with Southeast Asian Flair | Marina One, Singapore
Situated in the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District, The Spot is a modern restaurant and bar that blends European technique with Southeast Asian soul. Led by Chef Louis Lee, whose training in modern European gastronomy and Japanese-fusion cuisine informs every dish, The Spot is a destination for business lunches, intimate dinners, and after-work indulgence.
- Hay-Smoked Bonito Tataki, kombu-cured and gently smoked over hay, is served with wasabi ponzu and yuzu-chilli coulis. The pairing with Shuchuzaishin Daidai Junmai Ginjo offers crisp acidity that balances the dish’s smoky depth.
- Binchotan-Grilled Sawara, dry-aged and charcoal-grilled, is layered with koji-zucchini purée, miso-butter rice vinegar sauce, and ikura. Paired with Niwa no Uguisu Junmai Ginjo 60, the sake’s soft fruit notes and gentle acidity mirror the dish’s complexity. The Spot’s pairings are a masterclass in balance—where boldness meets restraint, and sake finds new resonance in contemporary cuisine.
The Elegance of Pairing: A Refined Toast to Sake’s Global Cross-Cultural Harmony
“This year’s campaign is a tribute to culinary diversity—an ode to the richness of ingredients, the convergence of cultures, and the boundless artistry of pairing,” shared Ms. Akiko Onishi, Senior Director of JFOODO. “With Discover New Harmonies with Japanese Sake, we invite diners to reimagine sake not merely as a traditional libation, but as a refined and versatile companion to global cuisine. Whether gracing seafood, embracing meat, or accenting vegetables, sake brings a quiet sophistication—one that deepens flavour, bridges traditions, and celebrates the universal language of taste.”
The campaign runs throughout November, inviting food lovers to embark on a curated journey of taste and tradition. Each pairing is a dialogue between chef and brewer, plate and glass—an invitation to discover new harmonies.
For complete restaurant listings and pairing menus, please see below:
Appendix 1 – List of participating restaurants (*Alphabetical Order)
| Restaurant Name | Address |
| 8picure | 428 River Valley Road, #01‑04, Singapore 248327 |
| Appetite | 72A Amoy Street, Singapore 069891 |
| Café Nesuto | 2 Orchard Turn, #04‑27 to 32, ION Orchard, Singapore 238801 |
| CASA CICHETI | 78 Guan Chuan Street, #01‑41, Singapore 160078 |
| Fiasco by Juice | 66 Kampong Bugis, Level M, Singapore 338987 |
| Imperial Treasure Bar + Grill | 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #02‑111, Great World, Singapore 237994 |
| Joo Chiat Oyster House | 328 Joo Chiat Road, #01‑05, Singapore 427585 |
| Koki Alternative Bread Bar | 60A Duxton, #02‑01, Singapore 089524 |
| Lerouy | 7 Mohamed Sultan Road, Singapore 238957 |
| NOURI | 72 Amoy Street, Singapore 069891 |
| Pastaro | 36H Dunearn Road, #02‑45, Chancery Court, Singapore 309433 |
| Pulsii French Bistro & Bar | 55 Tras Street, Singapore 078994 |
| Sage by Yasunori Doi | 150 Orchard Road, #01‑36, Orchard Plaza, Singapore 238841 |
| Tapasu Oyster Gastronomiya | 29 Stanley Street, #01‑01, Singapore 068738 |
| The Boiler Seafood Bar & Restaurant | 8 Raffles Avenue, #01‑13A, Singapore 039802 |
| The Shelling Co | 25 Opal Crescent, Singapore 328419 |
| The Spot | 5 Straits View, #01‑26/27, Marina One East Tower, Singapore 018935 |
| WAKANUI Grill Dining | 5 Straits View, #04‑02, Marina One West Tower, Singapore 018935 |
| WHITEGRASS | 30 Victoria Street, #01‑26/27, Chijmes, Singapore 187996 |
Hashtag: #pairwithsake #japanesesake #discovernewharmonies
https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/jfoodo/
https://www.facebook.com/jetrosingapore/
https://www.instagram.com/jetrosingapore/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About JFOODO
JFOODO, which stands for The Japan Food Product Overseas Promotion Center, was established in 2017 by the Japanese government as part of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). JFOODO collaborates with industry partners to showcase the quality, diversity, and authenticity of Japanese food and beverages through various campaigns and events. The mission is to enhance the export of Japanese agricultural, forestry, fishery, and food products and to brand and promote these products globally.
In Japanese, culture can be expressed as 「風土」(pronounced as “fudo”), which incidentally rhymes with “JFOODO.” The name also reflects their aspiration to increase worldwide recognition and appreciation for Japanese food, akin to how other aspects of Japanese culture have gained international acclaim. In Japanese, the kanji character「道」(read as “dō”) symbolises “the way” or “the code.” JFOODO strives to embrace and promote “the way of food” alongside Japanese culture to captivate global audiences and cultivate a deep appreciation for Japanese food and its rich heritage.
Check the official website for more information:
https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/jfoodo/
Media OutReach
PolyU research teams and startups shine at CES 2026, winning three prestigious innovation awards
Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation), remarked, “PolyU is committed to nurturing innovative research talent with both national and international outlooks. We empower our teams by leading them to major international innovation events and fostering close collaboration among industry, academia, research and investment sectors on a global level, creating opportunities for the overseas expansion of PolyU startups. PolyU was the sole university from Hong Kong to exhibit at the event, with its participating teams making up 30% of the Hong Kong delegation, contributing to Hong Kong’s advancement into an international innovation and technology hub. Our record-breaking performance at this year’s CES affirms international recognition of PolyU research and innovation, propelling our teams to continue striving along the path of innovation and technology to create even more profound social impact.”
Leveraging its robust research strengths and its unique startup ecosystem, PolyVentures, the University actively supports its research teams and startups in developing innovative technologies, bringing Hong Kong research achievements to the global stage. The Smart Firefighting Robot, developed by Mr WANG Meng, a PhD candidate of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering as well as Founder of PolyU startup Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited, along with his team, achieved the highest score in the “Products in Support of Human Security for All” category and earned the prestigious “Best of Innovation Award”. The Powered Rehab Skateboard, developed by Prof. Kenneth FONG, Associate Dean of the Graduate School and Associate Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, received an “Innovation Award” in the “Accessibility and Longevity” category. The FattaLab® Fatty Liver Diagnostic Device, developed by a team spearheaded by Prof. ZHENG Yongping, Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering, Chair Professor of Biomedical Engineering, and Founder and Chief Scientist of PolyU startup Eieling Technology Limited, also won an “Innovation Award” in the “Digital Health” category.
The three award-winning innovations aim to enhance human security or health through cutting-edge technologies. The AI-driven Smart Firefighting Robot features autonomous patrol, burning materials classification, fire extinguishing and real-time data sharing functions in smoke-filled environments, protecting firefighters and the public simultaneously. The Powered Rehab Skateboard is a portable and cost-effective robotic system that supports home-based and community rehabilitation for stroke patients. The skateboard facilitates motor recovery in hemiparetic upper limbs and allows users to engage in effective therapy. The FattaLab® Fatty Liver Diagnostic Device is the world’s first lightweight intelligent assessment system for fatty liver detection. Weighs only 120 grams, the device can complete fatty liver assessment within 30 seconds, achieving detection accuracy at medical-grade standards.
Organised by the Consumer Technology Association, CES is one of the world’s largest and most influential consumer electronics exhibitions, spotlighting cutting-edge technologies for modern living. This year, CES attracted over 4,500 exhibitors from around the globe. The PolyU startups participating in the exhibition were as follows:
| PolyU Startups | Featured Innovations | Company Representatives |
| AniMed Technology Limited | Contactless real-time AI-driven health monitoring | Dr LYU Weimin Co-founder and CEO, AniMed Technology Limited |
| CyanSE Smart Energy Tech Limited | AI-powered energy optimisation platforms for smart buildings | Ms Amber ZHANG Co-founder, CyanSE Smart Energy Tech Limited |
| DRESIO Limited | AI-powered physiotherapy assessments software solution | Mr Alexander YING CEO, DRESIO Limited |
| Eieling Technology Limited | FattaLab® Fatty Liver Diagnostic Device (CES 2026 Innovation Award) |
Prof. ZHENG Yongping Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering, Chair Professor of Biomedical Engineering, PolyU; Founder and Chief Scientist, Eieling Technology Limited |
| Entoptica Limited | Cutting-edge ophthalmic diagnostic technologies | Dr Mukhit KULMAGANBETOV Senior Research Fellow, InnoHK Centre for Eye and Vision Research; CEO, Entoptica Limited |
| Feelings Group Limited | AI-powered computer vision solution | Dr WONG Wing-sze Research Assistant Professor, Department of Language Science and Technology, PolyU; Clinical Consultant and Co-inventor, Feelings Group Limited Ms YIP Chi-hay |
| Gembody Limited | Next-generation portable AI ultrasound system | Ms MAO Qian CEO, Gembody Limited Dr YANG Fan CTO, Gembody Limited |
| ImageVector MedTech Limited | AI-Vision for Joint Degeneration
|
Dr JIANG Tianshu
Executive Director, ImageVector MedTech Limited |
| Immune Materials Limited | Innovative long-lasting antimicrobial self-disinfection materials | Prof. Chris LO Kwan-yu Professor, Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, PolyU; Co-founder, Immune Materials Limited Prof. KAN Chi-wai |
| Innobound Limited | Portable smart terminal for emotional interaction, health monitoring and daily living assistance | Ms GAO Lan CEO and Founder, Innobound Limited |
| MedVision Limited | AI-powered medical imaging solution | Prof. CAI Jing Head and Professor, Department of Health Technology and Informatics, PolyU; Consultant, MedVision Limited Dr MA Zongrui |
| Mirror Caring Limited | Knee health management solution | Prof. Stephen WANG Jia Professor, School of Design, PolyU; Founder, Mirror Caring Limited |
| Nuvatech Limited | Next-Gen Fashion OS powered by Multi-modal AI | Mr DENG Yanheng Founder, Nuvatech Limited |
| On-Skin Wearable Technology Limited | Wearable Biomedical Electronic Device | Dr Rayman GONG Founder and CEO, On-Skin Wearable Technology Limited |
| ReSaTech Limited | AI solutions for product reliability | Mr Ricky LAW CEO, ReSaTech Limited |
| UbiquiTech Innovations Limited | Edge-AI robot for autonomous inspection and cleaning in confined spaces | Prof. CAO Jiannong Vice President (Education), Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Professor in Data Science, Chair Professor of Distributed and Mobile Computing, PolyU; Founder and Chief Scientist, UbiquiTech Innovations Limited Dr LIANG Zhixuan |
| Vcare Vision Technology Limited | Non-invasive myopia prevention solution | Dr TANG Yuk-ming Senior Lecturer, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, PolyU; Co-founder, Vcare Vision Technology Limited |
| Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited | Smart Firefighting Robot
(CES 2026 Best of Innovation Award) |
Mr WANG Meng PhD candidate, Building Environment and Energy Engineering, PolyU; Founder, Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited |
| XOXO Beverages Limited | Automated Cocktail Machine for improvements event and hospitality efficiency | Mr Nicholas YU Wo-ping Founder, XOXO Beverages Limited |
Hashtag: #PolyU
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
Starlight Centre Launches New Program For Students with Autism Entering Mainstream Primary Schools.
Peer Modeling
Starlight Centre has provided specialised care services for children with high-functioning autism from primary 1 to 6 and have supported many students who are now ready to demonstrate positive behaviours from the programmes. Through peer modelling, younger students can observe and learn from their more experienced peers, helping them understand the acceptable boundaries of good behaviour.
RISE™
The Starlight RISE™ Primary School Readiness Program effectively prepares young children for formal education by developing their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive skills through engaging, play-based activities.
By actively involving parents in the process through comprehensive evaluations and strong partnerships, Starlight Centre aims to make parents feel valued and confident that their child’s development is being supported holistically, beyond just basic skills.
Hashtag: #AutismEducation #SpecialNeedsEducation #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ParentingSupport #StarlightCentre
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Starlight Centre
Starlight was founded by a group of parents and seasoned autism professionals who have experienced first-hand the challenges of finding the most effective therapy programs, preschools, and after-school care services. We understand what you’re going through and are here to help. No matter your child’s needs, come to us, and we will connect you with the right resources.
Media OutReach
Final Weeks to Visit UABBHK 2025 — Explore AI-Enhanced Architecture Before Exhibition Closes on 24 January
Reimagining Architecture as Civic Performance
Under the theme “TECHFORMANCE: Technology, Platform and Performance”, UABBHK 2025 explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the architectural discipline — from static design to dynamic, participatory experience. Featuring over 25 exhibits across two venues, the Biennale brings together architects, designers, artists, and researchers to examine how emerging technologies such as generative design, robotics, immersive media, and machine learning are transforming authorship, spatial storytelling, and public engagement.
Exhibits Worth Revisiting
As the Biennale draws to a close, the curatorial team invites visitors to experience some of the most thought-provoking and visually striking works.
At Oi!, “Sanctum in the AI Age: Redefining the Human-Deities Nexus in Urban Future” by Jessica Kong and Nam Wu offers a compelling exploration of AI-generated shrine designs and spirituality in hyper-dense urban contexts. Nearby, “Island Totem” by Island Works presents a poetic memorial column using water, light, and soundscape to reflect on the overlooked histories and geographies of Hong Kong’s islands.
At EKCC, “Sentient Mirror – Genius Loci” by XCEPT invites visitors to contribute personal memories and emotional data which are transformed into a dynamic “memory-scape” of Hong Kong architecture. “Stone Synergy: AI-Driven Community Housing” by Olivia Chen proposes a design platform that empowers communities to co-create sustainable housing using local materials and machine learning. In “Collaborative Ephemeral Pavilion – Design with Technology”, Prof. Tris Kee and students from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University repurpose metal scaffolding into a community-built pavilion that shares local stories through interactive media. Meanwhile, “Computational BioPhilia: Culture-Nature Synthesis in Biomimicry Fabrication” by Patrick So, Bojia Xiao and Polly Heng presents a biodegradable architectural prototype that nurtures soil regeneration using AI and modular design, blending ecological restoration with digital fabrication.
Upcoming Programmes — Tech Sunday and Guided Tours
On 18 January 2026, UABBHK 2025 will host its final Tech Sunday at Oi!, featuring two sessions. The morning session, “Cultural Identity & Ritual in the AI-Enhanced Urban Realm”, includes presentations by Ashley Wong, Jessica Kong, and Vicky Lam, exploring informal shrines, afterlife economies, and AI-generated flower market futures. In the afternoon, “Craft, Algorithm, and Robotic Fabrication” brings together Kristof Crolla, Garvin Goepel, Su Chang, and others to discuss AI-enabled design and fabrication practices.
To complement the forums, free guided tours are available at both venues on 11 and 18 January. Prior registration is available at UABBHK 2025’s website.
Cross-Border Dialogue Continues in Shenzhen
Beyond the Hong Kong venues, UABBHK 2025 is also being showcased in the Shenzhen & Hong Kong Bi-city Biennale of Urbanism Architecture (Shenzhen) (UABBSZ), which has been opened on 31 December 2025, at the Hetao Science and Technology Innovation Center. Themed as “City Theater”, UABBSZ positions Shenzhen as a city of performative stage where architecture, technology, and civic life intersect. In Shenzhen, a symbolic tunnel portal installation of UABBHK 2025 is set, linking Shenzhen and Hong Kong as a gesture of spatial and curatorial continuity.
Exhibition and Admission Details of Hong Kong part of UABBHK 2025
- Venues:
- Oil Street Art Space (Oi!), 12 Oil Street, North Point
- East Kowloon Cultural Centre (EKCC), 60 Ngau Tau Kok Road, Kowloon
- Exhibition Period:
Now until 24 January 2026 - Admission:
Free - Link to free guided tours registration:
https://uabb2025.hkia.org.hk/en/programme
For updated schedules, programme registration, and more information, please visit UABBHK 2025’s website: https://uabb2025.hkia.org.hk/en. For detailed exhibitor list and installation descriptions, please refer to the appendix.Hashtag: #UABBHK
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Biennale Foundation
The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Biennale Foundation is a non-profit making organisation established and incorporated in 2014 for charitable purposes. The objects for which the Biennale Foundation is established are:
- To promote creativity and advance the understanding, appreciation and interest of architectural and design excellence
- To encourage cross-border and cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaboration among creative professionals from Hong Kong, other parts of the Greater China region and overseas
- To support art, design, architectural and cultural education for students and youth, the community, and policy makers
- To create a favourable environment for study, research and experimentation of design, art and architectural works in an exhibition scale
- To energise and revitalise specific sites of interests by introduction of cultural and creative events
About the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency
The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) since 2009, was established in June 2024. CCIDA is a dedicated office under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative sectors with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate development of the arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. CCIDA’s strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and multi-disciplinary collaboration, promoting industrialisation of the arts, culture and creative sectors under the industry-oriented principle, and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community, thereby reinforcing Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and our positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
2025 Hong Kong & Shenzhen Bi-City Biennale of UrbanismArchitecture (Hong Kong)’s Disclaimer:
The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.
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