If you love exploring rich food heritage and authentic flavours right here on our sunny island, we’ve got some exciting news for you!
From 23 October to 26 December 2026, Orang Laut SG is taking over Chef X at Clarke Quay Central for its very first café-style pop-up: Terumbu (which translates to "coral reefs")!
Brought to life by fourth-generation Orang Laut and Orang Pulau descendant Firdaus Sani and his family, this meaningful pop-up serves up cherished recipes passed down from former Pulau Semakau islanders alongside an intimate community gallery.
It's a rare and precious opportunity to experience the vibrant flavours, traditions, and living heritage of Singapore’s Southern Islands through hearty food and heartfelt storytelling.
Recipes Rooted In Island Life & The Sea
Guided by the traditional islander cooking philosophy of ikut hati kau ("follow your heart"), Terumbu's dishes are deeply connected to the sea's natural rhythms and coastal life. Rather than following rigid written measurements, the kitchen relies on intuition, instinct, and decades of family culinary memory passed down from Nenek Ninah to Firdaus' mother, Mdm Noorani, and aunt, Mdm Rohaini.
Here are the signature highlights you definitely can't miss:
The Pulau Bowl (S$15.90): A hearty, mouthwatering introduction to island cooking served over fluffy jasmine rice. It features Asam Pedas Ikan Karang—made with freshly caught reef fish from the waters surrounding the Southern Islands (with the fish variety changing based on the season!) simmered in a spicy, tangy gravy of turmeric, dried chillies, and black pepper.
It also includes Sambal Udang and the iconic Sotong Hitam, made using tender Sotong Nos (green-eyed squid sourced from the southern shores of Singapore around the Riau Islands and traditionally caught using line fishing rather than nets), slow-cooked in a rich, savoury ink gravy.
Bubur Lambuk Tenggiri (from S$11.90): While Bubur Lambuk is widely enjoyed during Ramadan, this comforting mackerel rice porridge holds a special place in the everyday life of islander families as a nourishing meal made from the day's fresh catch.
Slowly simmered with mackerel, lemongrass, coconut milk, and aromatics, you can enjoy it topped with prawns (S$11.90), squid (S$11.90), or a combo of both (S$13.90)!
Traditional Malay Kueh: End your meal on a sweet note with familiar treats like coconut-forward Kueh Koleh-Koleh or luscious Kueh Puteri Salat.
Visit Terumbu At Chef X
Whether you're curious about Singapore's lesser-known coastal past or simply looking to enjoy a wholesome meal prepared with love, make sure to pop by before the residency ends in December!
Dates: 23 October – 26 December 2026
Location: Chef X, Clarke Quay Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, #03-103/104, Singapore 059817
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Closed on Sundays & Mondays)
Halal Status: Muslim-owned initiative / Muslim-led kitchen using halal-sourced ingredients.
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Don't miss out on this incredible cultural and culinary journey!
Have you tried traditional Southern Islander food before? Share this with your foodie friends and plan a lunch date together at Clarke Quay Central today!
