Singapore’s dining scene just got smokier—and tastier. Namu Bulgogi, known for its theatrical oakwood smoke-grilling, has opened a new outlet at Hillion Mall, with another at Northpoint City following close behind.
Their newly launched menu highlights the Oakwood-Fire Tongdak-Gui (Roasted Chicken)—a bold, flavour-packed dish that’s already gaining attention. But is it truly worth the hype? Here’s everything on the table that stood out—and why it deserves a spot on your Korean food radar.
🔥 Oakwood-Roasted Chicken That Lives Up to the Hype
The Oakwood-Fire Tongdak-Gui is not your typical Korean roasted chicken. Roasted rotisserie-style in a storefront oakwood-fired oven, it comes out deeply smoky, impossibly juicy, and golden-crisp on the outside.
Each portion is paired with a house-made Kimchi Cheong—a tangy, umami-rich kimchi jam that elevates the chicken with every bite. You can opt for half (from $16.90) or a whole chicken (from $24.90), and layer on bold sauces like Gochujang, Mala Rosé, Rosé Cream, Jjajang, and the daring ultra-spicy Cheongyang Cream.
📌 Pro Tip: The Cheongyang Cream version is a fiery delight. Pair it with sides like fried tteok, gimmari, or the addictive corn cheese.
🍗 A Duo Worth Devouring: Smoke-Grilled 2-in-1 Chicken Chop
For a two-in-one flavour bomb, the Smoke-Grilled 2-in-1 Chicken Chop combines their original marinade and spicy gochujang glaze on juicy boneless chicken thighs, grilled over oakwood for that signature depth.
Each tray set comes with two sides and sauces served separately, letting you mix, match, and dip to your heart’s content. Corn cheese and mashed sweet potato were standout sidekicks.
Also available in:
- Gochujang (spicy & smoky)
- Black Pepper (aromatic kick)
- Green Chili (tangy & bright)
🥩 Meaty Highlights Beyond Chicken
For the carnivores, Namu Bulgogi’s grill menu offers serious depth. The Prime Ribeye was flame-seared, juicy, and rich, while the L.A. Galbi packed a satisfying, savoury punch.
Other standouts include:
- Beef Bulgogi (Original or Spicy)
- Oxtail Stew, slow-braised for 8 hours
- Lamb Chops with soy garlic or black pepper
- Spicy Baby Octopus & Grilled Squid
- Salmon Steak, flake-perfect and lightly charred
📌 Editor’s Pick: The ribeye is a must if you’re after indulgence with oakwood finesse.
🍜 Soul-Warming Korean Comforts from $7.90
Affordability meets authenticity in Namu’s comfort food menu. Their Bibimbap bowls start at just $7.90, layered with vegetables and protein options like jjajang chicken, minced beef, or spicy tuna.
On the lighter side, the Bibimguksu (cold somyeon noodles) delivers a refreshing, spicy tang—great for hot days. The Chicken Sundubu Jjigae brought classic Korean comfort in a bubbling, tofu-rich stew.
Other warming bowls include:
- Beef Gomtang
- Kimchi Jjigae
- Hand-cut Kalguksu noodles with braised beef or flower clams
📌 Must-Try: The Chicken Sundubu Jjigae—satisfying, savoury, and portioned generously.
🍳 Don’t Skip the Sides
The side dishes here could be meals on their own. Highlights include:
- Cheesy Gyeran Jjim (fluffy steamed egg)
- Spicy Korean fish cake
- Mashed sweet potato
- Gimmari (fried seaweed rolls)
- Garlic spaghetti, corn cheese, and more
📌 Banchan Faves: Try the seasoned spinach and potato quail egg jangjorim when available.
🧋 Drinks with a Twist: Bandung Hwa Chae & Milo Banana Milk
To balance out the heat and spice, Bandung Hwa Chae was a refreshing, dessert-like drink with chewy fruit bits and rose milk. The Milo Banana Milk surprised with its creamy, nostalgic flavour—think banana milk meets childhood Milo in one slurp.
Final Verdict: Is Namu Bulgogi at Hillion Mall Worth a Visit?
From the oakwood-fired roasted chicken to the smoke-grilled meat platters and comforting stews, Namu Bulgogi at Hillion Mall hits all the right notes. It’s hearty, affordable, and packed with flavour—perfect for casual meals, group gatherings, or even a quick solo lunch.
Whether you’re craving fiery spice or mellow umami, this new Korean hotspot in Bukit Panjang offers an experience that’s both exciting and comforting in equal measure.
📍Find them at Hillion Mall: 17 Petir Rd, B2-55/56, Singapore 678278
🕐 Open daily: 11:30am – 10:00pm
Urban Ladies 