Tucked away in the basement of 18 Cross Street, JIHO Samgyetang marks its first international outpost in Singapore, bringing with it over three decades of heritage in Korean herbal cuisine. Founded in 1991 by Dr Lee Ji-ho, the brand has built a strong reputation across Korea and beyond for its dedication to hanbang (traditional herbal medicine) cooking, particularly its signature samgyetang. Backed by SBCD F&B Group, known locally for its speciality Korean concepts, JIHO’s arrival introduces a wellness-driven take on Korean comfort food to the CBD dining scene.
At the heart of JIHO’s menu is its patented herbal blends and the use of young, tender chickens, slow-simmered to extract maximum nourishment. Unlike the robust and sometimes intense ginseng broths found elsewhere, JIHO’s rendition leans towards a cleaner, more refined profile — making it especially appealing for modern diners seeking both flavour and health benefits.
Beauty Samgyetang 4/5
We began with the Beauty Samgyetang ($29.80), a signature offering tailored for skin health and vitality. Served piping hot, the young spring chicken is exceptionally tender, with meat that gently falls off the bone. Hidden within is a stuffing of glutinous rice, fully infused with the essence of the herbal broth. The soup itself is light yet deeply comforting, silky on the palate with a delicate sweetness from red dates and ginseng, without veering into overly medicinal territory. It’s a restorative bowl that feels indulgent yet nourishing, perfect for a midday recharge in the bustling CBD.
Squid & Minari Salad (Avocado & Seaweed) 4.2/5
A refreshing contrast comes in the form of the Squid & Minari Salad ($29.80). This vibrant dish showcases tender squid paired with crisp minari (water dropwort), offering a fresh, herbaceous bite. The addition of creamy avocado lends a modern twist, balancing the spicy-sweet dressing with its buttery richness. Diners are encouraged to wrap the ingredients in seaweed sheets to create a harmonious bite that is smoky, zesty, and texturally dynamic. It’s an excellent communal dish that cuts through the richness of the mains.
Perilla Samgyejuk 4/5
For something heartier and more fuss-free, the Perilla Samgyejuk ($32.80) is a comforting alternative. Instead of a whole chicken, this dish features shredded chicken in a thick porridge base. The inclusion of finely ground perilla seeds elevates the dish, lending it a nutty aroma and a velvety consistency. Each spoonful is rich and satisfying, with a rustic depth that complements the savoury chicken notes. Its hearty, “stick-to-your-ribs” quality makes it especially comforting on a rainy day or when you need something soothing yet substantial.
Vegan Fried Dumpling 4.5/5
Rounding out the meal is the Vegan Fried Dumpling ($15.80), a surprisingly standout side. Deep-fried to a golden crisp, the dumplings boast a thin, delicate skin that shatters lightly with each bite. Inside, a well-seasoned filling of glass noodles and vegetables delivers a satisfying savoury profile without any greasiness. It’s a simple yet well-executed dish that provides a delightful textural contrast to the otherwise soup-centric menu, and a thoughtful inclusion for plant-based diners.
JIHO Hanbang Samgyetang’s entry into Singapore offers a refreshing perspective on Korean cuisine — one that centres on wellness without compromising on flavour. With its refined broths, quality ingredients, and comforting dishes, it stands out as a destination for those seeking nourishing meals in the heart of the city. Whether you’re looking for a restorative lunch or a wholesome dining experience, JIHO delivers a bowl of tradition with a modern, health-conscious touch.
Note: This is an invited tasting.
JIHO Samgyetang SBCD
Cross Street Exchange
18 Cross Street
#B1-01
Singapore 048423
Tel: +65 8242 6988
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Bugis (DT, EW Line)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am – 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk down Cross Street. Walk to Capri by Fraser. Locate the escalator beside Capri by Fraser. Take it down to the basement. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]
2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to the traffic junction of Cross Street and South Bridge Road. Cross the road. Walk to Capri by Fraser. Locate the escalator beside Capri by Fraser. Take it down to the basement. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]