Discover Swing By @ Thomson Plaza: Your Neighborhood Dining Haven

Maureen
Maureen
December 27, 2024

Nestled conveniently next to Upper Thomson MRT station, Swing By @ Thomson Plaza is a vibrant dining and lifestyle enclave that offers something for everyone. From tantalizing local flavours to international cuisines, this multi-concept space is home to an array of unique restaurants and eateries. Whether you’re planning a casual meal or a family gathering, Swing By @ Thomson Plaza is the perfect destination to satisfy your cravings and enjoy the best of what the neighbourhood has to offer!

I’m excited to share some of my favourites with you—trust me, you’ll want to swing by too!

Betsubara (#01-K3)

If you’re an ice cream lover, Betsubara is a dessert haven you can’t miss. Known for their premium Hokkaido milk base, Betsubara’s ice creams are incredibly creamy, smooth, and rich with the unmistakable flavor of high-quality dairy. Every scoop feels indulgent, making it the perfect treat after a meal or a pick-me-up during the day.

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One of the most popular flavours, Lavender Hokkaido Milk, immediately catches your attention with its light floral aroma. The lavender is subtle but unmistakable, perfectly balanced with the creaminess of the milk base, making it both refreshing and elegant. If you’re looking for something fruity, the Rock Melon Hokkaido Milk is a must-try. The melon flavour is natural and vibrant, with a sweetness that pairs beautifully with the velvety texture of the ice cream.

One of my personal favorites is the Summer Strawberries, made with real strawberries. The natural tartness of the strawberries cuts through the creaminess of the base, making it vibrant, and fresh. It feels like biting into a perfectly ripe strawberry on a warm summer day.

The ice cream is served in generous portions, either in a crispy cone or a cup, and their friendly staff are always happy to recommend flavours if you’re feeling indecisive (which is easy to do with so many great options).

Bistro Box (#01-107)

Bistro Box by Uncle Penyet, making its debut in a mall for the first time within Swing By @ Thomson Plaza, offers hearty and flavourful meals.

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The crowd-favorite Ayam Penyet here is nothing short of stellar. Picture perfectly fried smashed chicken—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—served with Famous Signature Sambal Belachan Chilli that packs just the right amount of heat, and a side of crunchy crackers. Each bite is an explosion of flavours, and the sambal ties everything together beautifully for that authentic, homely touch.

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If you’re looking for something comforting, the Curry Chicken Stew with Roti Prata is an absolute must-try. The rich, creamy curry stew, brimming with tender chicken and aromatic spices, pairs wonderfully with the soft, flaky roti prata. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a rainy day—perfect for anytime you need a little pick-me-up.

Taking a modern twist on a traditional favourite, Bistro Box offers Baked Nasi Lemak, a fragrant dish that comes with two delicious protein options. Whether you choose the Grilled Spring Chicken, seasoned to perfection, or the Shrimp Paste Chicken Cutlet with its crispy, umami-packed crust, you’re in for a treat. The signature nasi lemak rice, cooked in rich coconut milk and baked for extra aroma, is the perfect complement to these delightful mains.

Hajime Tonkatsu & Ramen (#01-110)

When it comes to Japanese comfort food, Hajime at Swing By @ Thomson Plaza is one of my favourite places to visit. It’s the kind of restaurant where the flavours are always consistent, the dishes feel like they’re crafted with love, and the warm, inviting atmosphere keeps me coming back.

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One dish I always look forward to is their Toji Pork Loin. Served sizzling on a tamago hotplate, the pork loin is juicy and tender. The egg base, paired with shimeiji and shiitake mushrooms, cabbage, carrots, caramelized onions, and nori, adds a creamy richness that ties the dish together beautifully. It’s hearty and indulgent, yet not overwhelming—a perfect balance of textures and flavours.

On days when I want variety, I go for the Ebi & Pork Fillet Set. The panko-breaded Nobashi prawns and pork fillet are fried to golden perfection, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. What makes this set so satisfying is the thoughtful accompaniments—homemade Tonjiru soup, refreshing pickles, watermelon, and free-flow Niigata rice and freshly sliced cabbage. It’s a complete, well-rounded meal that always hits the spot.

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And then there’s the Kurobuta Shabu Ramen, the 12-hour-simmered Tonkotsu broth is comforting, paired with tender Kurobuta pork belly and fresh Nama noodles. Topped with napa cabbage, mushrooms, and a hint of chili powder, it’s the kind of ramen that warms you from the inside out.

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy authentic Japanese comfort food, I can’t recommend Hajime enough. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, it’s the kind of restaurant that keeps you coming back for more. Maybe I’ll see you there!

iVegan (#01-109)

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For those looking to enjoy healthy, plant-based meals without compromising on taste, iVegan at Thomson Plaza is a gem worth visiting. Offering a diverse menu of natural and wholesome dishes, this eatery proves that vegan food can be satisfying.

During my visit, I tried three standout dishes. First up was the Black Bean Burger, a hearty and protein-packed option. The burger patty, made with black beans and a mix of spices, was flavorful and perfectly paired with oven-roasted sweet potato wedges. The sweet potatoes added a natural sweetness and crisp texture that complemented the burger beautifully.

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Next, I sampled the Curry Platter with Bread, an aromatic and comforting dish. The curry was rich and full-bodied, with a delightful blend of spices that warmed the palate. The accompanying bread was soft and fresh, perfect for scooping up every last drop of the delicious curry.

Their Bibimbap features a colorful and vibrant bowl of fresh vegetables, rice, and house-made gochujang. The gochujang sauce added a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and umami flavours, bringing all the ingredients together in every bite.

If you’re planning to visit iVegan at Thomson Plaza, don’t miss out on their limited-time promotions! Enjoy 50% off Curry with Bread* or receive Free Starters*, both available for the first 100 customers daily. These deals are valid until 31 March 2025 but are not offered on the 1st and 15th of each lunar month, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. It’s the perfect chance to try their delicious plant-based dishes at a great value—don’t wait too long, as quantities are limited!

Peach Garden (#01-88)

Peach Garden is the perfect place for weekend dim sum buffets with family, where we indulge in endless baskets of steamed dumplings, crispy spring rolls, and silky egg tarts. But beyond the weekend brunches, Peach Garden also shines during festive seasons, making it a popular choice for Lunar New Year reunion dinners and other celebratory gatherings.

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One of the highlights of Peach Garden’s festive menu is the Golden Premium Traditional Pen Cai. This stunning dish is more than just food—it’s a beautifully arranged centerpiece that symbolizes abundance and prosperity. Packed with over 10 premium ingredients, including tender meats, fresh seafood, and flavorful vegetables, it’s the ultimate indulgence for any special occasion.

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Another must-have during Lunar New Year is their Traditional Yusheng with Love and Prosperity. Tossing yusheng is such a joyful tradition, and Peach Garden’s version is a classic. Vibrant and fresh, it’s loaded with crisp vegetables, sweet-tangy sauce, and crunchy crackers, making every toss an exciting way to wish for luck and prosperity in the coming year.

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Of course, no visit to Peach Garden is complete without their iconic Roasted Crispy Peking Duck. This dish is pure indulgence, with its perfectly roasted, crackling skin and juicy, tender meat. Paired with traditional pancakes, cucumber, and hoisin sauce, every bite never fails to impress.

Celebrate Lunar New Year with Peach Garden’s special promotion! Receive complimentary snacks* with every purchase of a Traditional Yusheng with Love and Prosperity (large). This offer is valid for dine-in or takeaway and can be redeemed any day during the CNY period, until 12 February 2025. Please note that it cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts. Don’t miss this festive treat!

San Ren Xing (#01-122/123)

If you’re craving authentic Chinese cuisine that brings together the bold flavours of Fujian and Sichuan, look no further than San Ren Xing at Swing By @ Thomson Plaza.

For something unique, the Handmade Popiah with Shredded Pork is a must-order. Thin, soft popiah skin wraps around tender, well-seasoned shredded pork, along with fresh vegetables for added crunch.

The Braised Nanping Noodle is a must-try for noodle enthusiasts. Springy noodles are cooked to perfection and coated in a savoury sauce that is rich, fragrant, and deeply satisfying. When paired with the signature chilli sauce, every bite is packed with umami goodness, making it the ultimate comfort food.

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No Chinese meal is complete without dumplings, and San Ren Xing’s Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao is a treat for dumpling fans. These delicate dumplings are filled with juicy, flavourful pork and a delightful burst of broth, making them the perfect appetizer.

For those who love a little zest in their meals, the Sauerkraut Fish is a standout. Tender fish slices are served in a tangy, spicy broth that’s both refreshing and addictive. The balance of heat and sourness makes it a dish that keeps you coming back for more.

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San Ren Xing is offering an exclusive 10% discount on all dishes* (excluding beverages and juices) from now till 30 April 2025! This promotion is valid for dine-in only and cannot be combined with other promotions. Available to the first 200 customers, so head over soon to enjoy delicious Fujian and Sichuan flavors at a great value!

Tsukada Nojo (#03-50)

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When December rolls around with its rainy, cooler days, there’s nothing better than cozying up with a warm, hearty hotpot from Tsukada Nojo. Their signature Beauty Collagen Pot (Bijin Nabe) starts with a jelly-like mound of collagen-rich chicken broth made from premium Jidori chicken, simmered for hours until it’s packed with nutrients and flavour. Watching the broth melt into a silky, creamy soup as it heats is part of the magic.

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My personal favorite at Tsukada Nojo is their Double Flavour Pot, featuring the rich Tomato Collagen Broth and the delicate Spinach Collagen Broth. Once the broth is ready, you can cook an array of fresh ingredients. I always order the Vegetable Combo—a colorful mix of farm-fresh produce—and the Meat Combo, which includes tender chicken, pork, and beef slices. Each ingredient soaks up the rich, savoury flavours of the broth, turning this hotpot into a satisfying and wholesome feast, especially on a chilly, rainy day.

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Before diving into the hotpot, I love indulging in Tsukada Nojo’s appetizers. The Mentaimayo Tamagoyaki is a personal favorite—soft, fluffy layers of Japanese omelette topped with creamy, savory mentaiko mayo that melts in your mouth. For a spicier kick, the Chicken Nanban Spicy is a must-try. It’s perfectly fried, juicy chicken coated in a tangy, spicy sauce that packs just the right amount of heat.

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If hotpot isn’t your thing, Tsukada Nojo offers a fantastic alternative: the Miso Butter Beauty Collagen Ramen. This dish combines the richness of their collagen-infused broth with the umami flavors of miso and butter, creating a creamy, satisfying bowl of ramen. Topped with tender chicken and premium vegetables, it’s an indulgent option that’s perfect for a quick, comforting meal.

Wonderful Bapsang (#01-112/113/114)

For a taste of Korea right in the heart of Swing by @ Thomson Plaza, Wonderful Bapsang is the perfect spot to indulge in authentic Korean dishes that are both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re dining with family or friends, this eatery has something for everyone.

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The new Bunsik Wangpan is a must-try for fans of Korean street food. This generous platter is perfect for sharing and features all-time favorites like savory Corn Cheese, fluffy Gyeranjjim (steamed egg), and fun-to-make Rice Balls. It’s a festive dish that’s ideal for gathering with loved ones.

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For a meat lover’s delight, the Galbi BBQ is simply unforgettable. The beef, with its perfect marbling, grills to tender, juicy perfection, delivering a burst of rich flavors in every bite. It’s a dish that brings the vibrant essence of Korean barbecue to life.

Yukhoe Bibimbap is a standout for those looking to try something unique. The dish pairs marinated raw beef slices with fresh vegetables and rice, all tied together by the robust seasoning of the Yukhoe. Each bite showcases the quality of the ingredients and the skillful preparation.

Don’t miss out on Wonderful Bapsang’s special promotion! For every Wangpan purchased, members can enjoy 2 free soft drinks* of their choice. It’s the perfect way to complement your meal and make your dining experience even more enjoyable. Be sure to take advantage of this offer during your next visit!

Sign up for L Privileges!

Swing By @ Thomson Plaza has really become my happy place. Whether you’re craving something new or classic, you’ll find it here. Don’t miss out on signing up for L Privileges! Use my promo code ‘MTCSBTP’ to get a $5 E-voucher, redeemable at any of the 8 featured stores. For more information, visit swingbythomsonplaza.com.sg

*These special promotions are for L privileges members only and the deals can only be redeemed on the app catalogue.