If you love seafood, you’ve probably heard of Ah Hua Kelong or even dined at Scaled by Ah Hua Kelong. Now, Wong Jing Kai (or Kai), the farmer-turned-restaurateur behind both concepts, is back with his latest project: Smolder. This new farm-to-table seafood grill restaurant brings the freshest seafood from the farms directly into the table.
What sets Smolder apart is its unwavering focus on freshness. Kai, who has been running Ah Hua Kelong since 2014, knows the value of fresh seafood. Every day, at dawn, fish are harvested from the kelong—one of Singapore’s last three traditional floating farms—before being delivered to the restaurant the very same day. Their minimal seasoning, simple grilling, and natural flavours take their dishes to a whole different level.
The Location
Located along Outram Road, the store is just a short 6-min walk from Havelock MRT (Exit 2). The entrance is fairly unassuming during the day, but a glance for the Smoulder sign makes it easy to spot and you’ll know you’ve arrived.
The Space & Vibe
Smolder feels like a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. It’s intimate and warm, and the ambient lighting adds onto the vibe, making it easy to relax and catch up with friends over shared plates.
Reservations are highly recommended since the restaurant fills up fast once the dinner crowd comes in. Walk-ins are possible if space allows which, according to the staff, might be rare. The seating capacity is 90 pax.
What’s the menu
Small Plates & Sides
Zucchini and Parmesan Fritters ($10)
This is our favourite starter. Crispy on the outside, soft and flavourful on the inside. The combination of zucchini and parmesan works so well, and it’s surprisingly light, not oily at all, making it super easy to snack on.
Octopus and Potato ($16)
Served cold, this appetiser is refreshing and smoky with a vinegar tang that really opens the appetite. The octopus is chewy but fresh, and the potato with bacon bits tossed in, ties everything together nicely.
Cornbread ($6)
This dish tasted more like a cake than bread with bits of grilled corn inside. It was slightly dry, but its sweet and crunchy texture grew on me and I actually liked it more than expected.
Broccolini ($16)
Crunchy and charred with a smoky grilled flavour reminiscent of loklok. Topped with the salty romesco sauce, it’s a simple but addictive side.
Mains
Portuguese Seafood Stew
A hearty bowl packed with big, fresh prawns, mussels, clams, and tender pork belly. The paprika and tomato-based broth was full of seafood flavour—comforting, filling, and perfect for sharing. The garlic bread was grilled to perfection and tasted so good dipped into the broth.
Whole Seabass ($58)
Ah, the showstopper of the night! Huge and perfect for 2 to 4 people, the seabass was fresh, sweet, and cooked beautifully. Simply seasoned with salt and pepper to let its natural flavours shine and their house chilli and lime added the perfect kick of spice to every bite. Totally addictive.
Desserts
Olive Oil Cake
Served with honey whipped cream, the cake unlike its name is not heavy or oily but instead light and citrusy. A refreshing way to end a meal.
Spiced Apple Wontons with Vanilla Semifreddo
A fun dessert twist on a wonton which many of us know and love. Crispy wonton skin with sweet fried apple filling, served with semi-frozen Italian mousse and topped with smoked honey and toasted almonds. Slightly sweet, but the textures and flavours make it a satisfying, flavour-packed dessert.
Drinks
What makes Smolder’s drinks menu special is the flexibility: anything marked with a “0%” can be served as a mocktail or cocktail, so everyone can enjoy, regardless of whether they consume alcohol.
Five Rings Spritz
A slightly sweet but strong cocktail featuring Hendrick’s gin, Hashi Imo Nanko Umeshu, sparkling sake, rosemary, and peach. Smooth and easy to sip.
Beekeeper’s Fog
Blended whisky with charcoal honey, lavender, and ginger beer. Potent and heavy, definitely for those who like strong drinks.
Verdict
Smolder delivers on its promise of fresh seafood cooked simply but well. The focus on same-day harvest from Ah Hua Kelong really shows while eating, the seafood is plump, sweet, and full of flavour without needing any heavy sauces. What I really like about Smolder is its fixed-price menu, which takes the stress out of ordering seafood. Unlike most seafood restaurants that charge based on the weight of the fish, here you know exactly what you’re getting charged without any surprises.
Would I come back? Definitely, with such a wide menu, there are still so many dishes I am excited to try out. Prices lean a little higher (it’s not an everyday spot), but for the quality and story behind the food, it feels justified. Perfect for groups who love sharing plates, seafood enthusiasts, or anyone who wants a taste of Singapore’s last kelongs brought straight to the city.
Smolder Seafood Grill and Bar
Address: 271 Outram Road, Singapore 169062 (Nearest MRT: Havelock Station – Exit 2)
Operating Hours: Tues -Thurs: 5PM-11PM (Last Order 10PM),
Friday, Saturday,Sunday: 12PM-230PM (Last Order 2PM), 5 PM-1AM (Last Order forfood 10PM, Last Order for Drinks 12AM)
Seating Capacity: 90 pax
Reservations: https://smolder.sg/
Do take note that this restaurant is not halal-certified.
Note: Prices are subject to GST and service charges.
Read other food reviews here.