Singapore’s Best Szechwan Chinese Restaurant on Orchard Road

It is the product of a proud culinary legacy that began with the founding of Japan’s first Szechwan restaurant back in 1958 by Chen Kenmin, who is regarded as the “Father of Szechwan cuisine” in Japan, before entrusting his culinary vision to his eldest son, Chen Kenichi, nicknamed the “Szechwan Sage” and was acclaimed as one of Japan’s most celebrated iron chefs.

Rooted in the culinary traditions of Chengdu, Szechwan cuisine is defined by its masterful use of the peppercorn, delivering the characteristic numbing spice, or mala, that sets it apart from any other cuisine in the world.

At Shisen Hanten, these ancient flavours are revived through an exacting Japanese sensibility, rendered with finesse, quality ingredients, and a respect for regional heritage.

Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro is celebrated as Singapore’s sole specialist in Chūka Szechwan Ryori, a distinctive style of Japanese-Szechwan cuisine.

At the helm is Chef Chen Kentaro, the third generation heir of Shisen Hanten. In 2014, he established Shisen Hanten in Singapore as his own venture, carrying forward his family’s rich culinary heritage.

From the legendary Mapo Tofu to wok-fired meat dishes and theatrical tableside specialties, every plate tells the story of a legacy spanning three lifetimes, from China to Japan and Singapore.

Mapo Tofu is one of the most iconic dishes in Szechwan cuisine, born in 19th-century Chengdu and celebrated across the world for its bold, numbing spice and unmistakable character.

At Shisen Hanten, the best Mapo Tofu that Singapore has to offer is prepared with fermented bean paste aged over three years in the Pi Du District of Chengdu, combined with silky tofu, ground pork, chilli oil, and Szechwan peppercorns, a recipe close to Chef Kentaro’s heart since childhood.

From delicious Mapo Tofu and handcrafted dim sum to barbecued specialties and live seafood, every dish at Shisen Hanten is a testament to the depth, exclusivity and bold elegance of Szechwan food. These are the flavours that have solidified our reputation as one of Singapore’s most celebrated Michelin-recognised dining destinations.