Suki-ya (Bedok Point)

Location: On the third floor of Bedok Point, a short walk away from Bedok bus interchange/MRT station (EW5), two levels of underground parking in the building. The quieter of the many other F&B outlets on level 3, easily identified by the gentle wafts of steam.

Staff: Generally pleasant and helpful, they are also quick to remove used plates from the table. However, they don't seem to have much initiative to top up drinks and have to be asked. (which is unusual because free-flow drinks are a commonly-used buffet cost control tactic).

Stock: There are several stocks to choose from: shabu-shabu, sukiyaki, wasabi, touya-miso and butaniku. We chose the last two, which turned out to be very flavourful. Hint: throw in some glass noodles to absorb the flavours of the stock instead of drinking it straight from the pot.

Meats: We each ordered and managed to finish one tray of sliced chicken, on tray of sliced pork and one tray of sliced beef, mainly because the portions are not very large. The slices are very thin, so cooking is quick and you can control how well done you want your meat to be. Excellent!

Buffet Spread: Quite a reasonable selection of vegetables, mushrooms and the usual fish-paste pot-fillers. Must try the quirky selection of cheese-filled items as well. Don't fill up too much on veggies, remember the meats are free-flow too! :)

Dipping Sauces: Aside from the usual ponzu, sesame and chilli sauces, there is a miso-tare sauce which you can customise using the provided minced garlic, chopped spring onions and cut chillis. It tastes great with everything, though we recommend slathering on cooked food instead of dipping, as the soup stock will dilute the dip quite quickly and clash with the stronger flavours of the sauce.

Dessert: Selection of B-grade ice-creams from Thailand: vanilla, strawberry and lemon sherbet were available. Go for the sherbet as it's a great palate cleanser after the savoury and spicy meal, and the iciness counterbalances (and puts out) the fire in your tummy.

Pricing: Adult: $18.90/$24.90 (L/D) and Child: $14.90/$17.90 (L/D) with a $2 surcharge from Fridays to Sundays. Still quite affordable for a weekday meal. Look out for promotions on their website.

Verdict: Worth a second visit, especially on quiet weekday evenings when they are not so strict about the dining time (80/100mins).