It doesn't get more secret society than an underground Chinese restaurant. Of course, secret societies don't exist anymore (or do they?), nor is the place actually below ground, so think of The Dragon Chamber as a backdoor playground for non-traditional Chinese food. It's fun from the outset—disguised behind a decent wanton mee store and decked with a menu that has crocodile penis soup (fun).
The Space
Speakeasy entrances are never meant to be easy to find, but it's another thing when it's hidden in plain sight. Especially at peak hour where the kopitiam facade is more kopitiam than facade, you'd have to know what you're looking for when you get there. In this case, a fridge door.
The dining interior has elements of old Chinatown gambling dens, but sits somewhat like a cafeteria with the kitchen in view. Walls are washed with luminescent artworks from local artists (shout out Sabotage), and true to pseudo-clan style, has a private dining area and VIP room to plot your enemies' demise over dinner.
Must-try
The Firecracker Chicken and Maple Fritters join the prevailing Ma La trend with deep fried diced chicken dosed in a level of Sichuan peppercorn that feels optimal, and goes so well with the crunchy maple-bathed you tiao that is surprisingly not an overkill.
Dick jokes aside, Dick Soup actually has all the goodness of a hearty double-boiled soup sealed in. Much to everyone's delight (unless you're into some really weird things), there's no overpowering strange flavour. Just soothing herbal nuances from its chicken and pork base with a touch of different.
For homely Chinese food, the deboned, tender texture of the Sweet and Spicy Plum Pomfret Fillet tastes like comfort.
The Star
It's not just the waft of truffle gravy, perfectly poached egg, or the premium A4 Kagoshima Wagyu. The damn flat noodles of the Wagyu Truffle Beef Hor Fun are great just standalone because of the deep-fried strips embedded in the wok fried ones. Don't try to figure that out, you'll get it when it comes.
How we feel about it in a gif
The Dragon Chamber is located at 2 Circular Road, Singapore 049358.
