The Place When it first opened in Suntec City Mall, the snaking queue is a testament to its popularity. Longjing Restaurant (绿茶餐厅) is a well‑known Chinese restaurant brand from Hangzhou, China, specialising in Zhejiang (Jiangnan) cuisine, which emphasises lighter and refined flavours. The brand just opened its second outlet last month in Novena Square (Velocity @ Novena Square), where its interior takes on a tranquil Westlake inspired setting. 

The Food Zhejiang cuisine is known to be lighter than other types of Chinese cuisines like Sichuan flavours. It is an extensive menu, and I started with some of the lighter dishes like Sister’s Song Fish Broth (S$5.80), Hangzhou-style Pan Friend Buns ($7.80) and Hangzhou Braised Delicacies in Golden Seafood Broth (S$22.80). 

The Longjing Roast Chicken (S$23.80) is one of the signature dishes here with a hint of Longjing tea. The tea fragrance is quite subtle, though beyond that I find it to be quite a normal tasting roast chicken dish. If anything, the portion of the dish is quite big, so it is a good value protein dish. 

The Dongpo Pork Ribs (S$20.80) is inspired by the classic Hangzhou dish where the taste is flavourful and the sauce is quite sweet. 

I enjoyed the Vermicelli Wrapped Shrimps (S$18.80) where the vermicelli soaks up the jus of the shrimps, along with the fragrant garlic elements. 

One dish I recommend is also the Signature Stewed Taro (S$17.80) served in a claypot where the yam is extremely soft and the braised sauce makes it delicious. 

For carbs, I tried the Claypot Rice with Egg, Smoked Pork and Mushroom (S$15.90) which is a generous serving for its price, and quite an aromatic rendition. 

Dessert wise, you can expect shaved Mango Shaved Ice (S$11.80) and Leifeng Pagoda (S$4.80) which is inspired by one of Hangzhou’s signature landmarks. 

Rants No reservations taken, so expect a long waiting time. 

Will I Return Again? Overall, Longjing Restaurant at Novena Square succeeds by staying true to Zhejiang cuisine’s gentle, refined roots. It may not be the place for punchy flavours or spice‑forward dishes, but for diners seeking comforting, well‑executed Chinese food with nuance and balance, this is one to check out. I would not say the dishes are exceptionally good, but I can understand why Longjing is so popular as the prices are competitive in today’s dining environment in Singapore.   

TheRantingPanda says:
Taste bud: 4/5
Hole in the pocket: 3.5/5
Ambience: 3.5/5
Overall Experience: 4/5     

Longjing Restaurant (绿茶餐厅) 
238 Thomson Road 
#03-09/10 Velocity @ Novena Square 
Singapore 307683 
Tel: +65 6348 4476 

Opening Hours 
Monday to Friday: 11.30am to 2pm; 5pm to 10pm 
Saturday & Sunday: 11am to 2pm; 5pm to 10pm 

Ranted by The Ranter