Jiak Kim House - Award Winning Modern Asian Dining Experience

Remember the legendary nights at Zouk? Well, prepare for a completely different kind of sensory experience. The iconic 1920s warehouse that once hosted Singapore's most epic dance parties has been reborn as Jiak Kim House, and it's creating just as much buzz in the culinary scene.

The Space

Walking into Jiak Kim House feels like stepping into a beautifully preserved time capsule. The soaring timber trusses and distinctive scallop-shaped roof pediment remain untouched, but gone are the pounding bass lines and strobe lights. In their place, contemporary Asian elegance meets heritage architecture. The 120-seater space now radiates warmth with its thoughtful east-meets-west design, banquette seating, and sculptural lighting that illuminates rather than disorients.

The Culinary Vision

Behind this transformation is Chef-Partner Seow Tzi Qin, better known as Chef TQ. With over a decade of experience including stints at prestigious establishments like Les Amis and Fullerton 1919 Waterboat House, Chef TQ brings serious culinary credentials to this modern Asian concept. His mission? Transforming dining into a communal celebration of culture, stories, and flavour through dishes that blend traditional Southeast Asian ingredients with contemporary techniques.

Must-Try Dishes

Tingkat of Memories ($28)

This appetizer platter is pure nostalgia on a plate. The herbed crab cake arrives crispy on the outside with tender, sweet crab meat within, elevated by a tangy assam mayo that adds the perfect acidic punch. The lamb goulash croquette offers rich, slow-cooked flavors encased in golden breadcrumbs, while the mint coriander coulis provides a fresh contrast. The Spanish mackerel otak-otak reimagines the classic street food with silky fish mousse infused with aromatic spices and green curry notes. Finally, the chilli crab pie tee delivers that beloved Singapore flavor in delicate, crispy cups that shatter satisfyingly with each bite.

Tandoori Lamb Rack ($48)

Chef TQ's interpretation of this classic showcases perfectly pink lamb with a aromatic spice crust that doesn't overpower the meat's natural flavors. The tender rack is complemented by thoughtfully chosen sides that balance the dish's richness, making each bite a harmonious blend of Southeast Asian spicing and refined technique.

Hay-Smoked Wagyu Hamburg ($28) 

Inspired by Vietnamese Bo La Lot, this dish showcases Chef TQ's ability to blend cultures seamlessly. The chargrilled patty combines wagyu chuck, short ribs, and pork belly, wrapped in aromatic shiso leaves that impart a refreshing minty fragrance. The hay-smoking process adds an earthy depth that elevates this beyond any regular burger into something truly special.

Jiak Kim Dessert ($22)

The restaurant's namesake dessert literally means "eat gold" in Hokkien, and it lives up to its luxurious name. The earl grey mousse base provides sophisticated tea notes that aren't overpowering, while the berriolette compote adds fruity sweetness. Roselle hawthorn jelly contributes floral tartness, and the final gold leaf garnish makes this a true Instagram moment - though the flavors are memorable long after the photos are posted.

Mushroom Herbal Tea 'Macchiato' ($22) 

Chef TQ's brilliant reinterpretation of bak kut teh is served in a coffee cup like a sophisticated latte. The peppery mushroom consommé is steeped in a fragrant herb and spice medley, topped with an airy green peppercorn foam that mimics coffee's milk foam. Mini dough fritters arrive on the side for dipping, channeling the classic pairing of you tiao with doujiang. It's comfort food elevated to fine dining heights while maintaining its soul.

The Experience

This isn't just about the food - it's about dining where history happened. The heritage warehouse setting adds gravitas to every meal, making it perfect for special occasions or impressing clients and visitors. Service is attentive, with staff knowledgeable about both the dishes and the venue's fascinating backstory.

Quick Details

Average Price: Fine dining pricing (expect $80-120++ per person)

Location: 5 Jiak Kim Street, #01-17, Singapore 169425

Operating Hours: Mon-Sat: 12pm-3pm, 6pm-11pm (Closed Sundays)

Reservations: Highly recommended - call +65 9831 5430

Pro Tip: Book the private dining enclave for special occasions, and don't miss their Southeast Asian-inspired cocktail menu

Bottom Line

Jiak Kim House successfully honors both its heritage location and Singapore's evolving culinary landscape. While it's a significant investment, the combination of Chef TQ's skillful modern Asian cuisine, the stunning heritage setting, and impeccable service creates a dining experience that's uniquely Singaporean. Whether you're a longtime Zouk veteran or a newcomer to the space, this restaurant offers a compelling reason to revisit Jiak Kim Street.