Cover Singapore’s top Cantonese chefs, Edward Chong, Cheung Siu Kong, and Ricky Leung, on the best suckling pig in Singapore
Singapore’s top Cantonese chefs, Edward Chong, Cheung Siu Kong, and Ricky Leung, on the best suckling pig in Singapore
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Singapore’s culinary maestros share their go-to spots for the best suckling pig for Chinese New Year 2025
There is no denying the extravagance of Chinese New Year feasts. However, no matter how lavish the spread looks, it never really feels complete without this starlet: the roast suckling pig. As Tatler Dining ushers in the magnificent Year of the Snake, we ask these top Cantonese chefs—each a master in the art of roasting the exemplary suckling pig at their respective strongholds—for their go-to hog spots to attain a sliver of piggy nirvana. From hole-in-the-wall jaunts to high-end establishments, these are Singapore’s finest roast suckling pigs, where each textural bite promises squeals of delight.
Read more: The best Chinese restaurants in Singapore for a lavish family feast
1. Lei Garden
Above Signature roast suckling pig at Lei Garden (Photo: Lei Garden)
Signature roast suckling pig at Lei Garden (Photo: Lei Garden)
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Cheung Siu Kong, chef de cuisine of Summer Pavilion
“A perfectly roasted suckling pig is defined by its ultra-crisp skin that shatters delicately with each bite. The skin should be thin and glassy, with no room for chewy or rubbery spots. The ratio of fat to meat is quintessential, where the fat beneath the skin adds richness and ensures a silky mouthfeel without being overly greasy; while the meat remains moist, tender and easy to pull apart yet retaining structural integrity. Achieving this gold standard requires meticulous attention at every step, from sourcing the finest young pigs and mastering precise roasting techniques to ensuring no trace of boar taint.
Lei Garden holds a special place in my heart. It was where my culinary journey began in Singapore, outside of Hong Kong. Under the guidance of founder Chan Shu Kit, I not only got to hone my culinary skills but also witnessed his dedication to roasting the perfect suckling pig. Even when he was not feeling well, Chan could still be found beside the pit fire, meticulously roasting. His passion and commitment continue to inspire my craft today.”
Lei Garden
Address: 30 Victoria Street, #01-24 Chijmes, S(187996)
2. Golden Peony
Above 2025 Lunar New Year roast suckling pig at Golden Peony (Photo: Conrad Centennial Singapore)
2025 Lunar New Year roast suckling pig at Golden Peony (Photo: Conrad Centennial Singapore)
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Liu Ching Hai, executive Chinese chef of Summer Palace
“Roast suckling pig is a delicacy I look forward to indulging, especially when Chinese New Year is around the corner. And chef Ku Keung from Golden Peony, a long-time industry peer I greatly respect, never fails to take this classic and add his personal touch every year. This year, he includes layers of glutinous rice, studded with textured treasures of abalone, sea cucumber and fish maw. From the ubiquitous crisp skin to tender and flavourful meat, Ku celebrates premium ingredients by thoughtfully harmonising them with the comforting classic. It stands out for me as each bite beautifully captures nostalgic flavours and memories of my childhood growing up in Hong Kong.”
Golden Peony
Address: 2 Temasek Boulevard, Conrad Centennial Singapore, S(038982)
In case you missed it: The best crispy roast pork in Singapore, according to top Cantonese chefs
3. Chin Lee Restaurant
Above Signature whole roast suckling pig at Chin Lee Restaurant (Photo: Facebook / @y_lyn)
Signature whole roast suckling pig at Chin Lee Restaurant (Photo: Facebook / @y_lyn)
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Edward Chong, executive chef of Peach Blossoms
“You can find my favourite suckling pig at this traditional Teochew restaurant in the heartlands of Bedok North. The winning combination of crispy skin and succulent meat makes the perfect suckling pig. However, it is easier said than done. In most restaurants, this gold standard isn’t commonly achieved but I dare say Chin Lee lives up to that promise. I first discovered this restaurant over a food programme on television. Since then, I have always returned. It also evokes fond memories of the time when I first arrived in Singapore as a young chef.”
Chin Lee Restaurant
Address: 115 Bedok North Road, #01-285, S(460115)
4. San Shu Gong Private Dining
Above Signature whole roast suckling pig at San Shu Gong Private Dining (Photo: Facebook / @calvinisonfacebook)
Signature whole roast suckling pig at San Shu Gong Private Dining (Photo: Facebook / @calvinisonfacebook)
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Ricky Leung, executive Chinese chef of Hai Tien Lo
“Some places tend to prepare the roast suckling pig way too early but not at San Shu Gong Private Dining. Seasoning the pig with premium five-spice powder as part of a secret spice blend, the restaurant will only roast the pig 90 minutes before your reservation, ensuring the freshest and juiciest suckling pig. The result is golden, crispy skin that shatters upon first bite and into rich and juicy meat. There is also an aromatic housemade sauce to enhance the overall dish, leaving a lasting impression that fuels yet another visit. The masterpiece isn’t available at your beck and call though, so make sure you pre-order it when making your reservation.”
San Shu Gong Private Dining
Address: 135 Geylang Road, #01-01, S(389226)
