Eat First (食之为先)
Desmond's Creation (吃饱先) and Eat First (食之为先) are no strangers to the local food scene, enchanting foodies with their delectable Cantonese cuisine. What makes these eateries even more remarkable is their shared origin - a rich culinary legacy passed down from their late father, Mr. Chia Kok Hoong, who helmed the renowned Sik Wai Sin (食为先) Eating House near Geylang Lorong 13.
Trained under their father's watchful eye, brothers Desmond and Steve Chia honed their skills in the kitchen of Sik Wai Sin (食为先). Today, they continue to carry forward their father's culinary traditions, delighting diners with dishes that reflect their deep-rooted Cantonese heritage.
The menus at Desmond's Creation (吃饱先) and Eat First (食之为先) showcase a remarkable simplicity that lets the flavours shine through. Cantonese Tze Char steamed dishes, such as the mouthwatering steamed song fish head and the delectable steamed minced pork with salted fish, are among the highlights. These dishes perfectly capture the essence of Cantonese cuisine, with their delicate textures and harmonious blend of ingredients. Wok-fried delights also take center stage at these eateries, with dishes like beef kailan and prawn tofu tantalizing taste buds with their sizzling flavours. Each dish is a testament to the Chia brothers' dedication to their craft and their commitment to serving authentic and delicious Cantonese fare.
It is worth mentioning that both eateries have developed their own dedicated fan bases, with loyal supporters who appreciate the distinct offerings of each establishment. Debating which eatery is better would be subjective, as the true beauty lies in the diversity of culinary experiences they provide.
Three weeks ago, diners bid farewell to the Eat First (食之为先) outlet at East Coast Road (Siglap). However, exciting news awaits, as the eatery is set to reopen at its father's restaurant's original location on Geylang Road in July. This reopening promises to bring back the nostalgic flavours and warm memories associated with the family's culinary heritage.
Before the closure, my colleagues and I had the pleasure of dining at the East Coast Road outlet, savouring the exquisite dishes that have made Eat First (食之为先) a beloved name in the local dining scene. The flavours and the shared moments were truly memorable, leaving us eagerly anticipating the reopening at the original Geylang Road address.
As we celebrate the culinary legacy of the late Mr. Chia Kok Hoong and the culinary journeys of both Desmond's Creation (吃饱先) and the soon-to-be-reopened Eat First (食之为先), let us appreciate the individuality and loyal following that each establishment has garnered. It is a testament to the passion and dedication of the Chia brothers, as they continue to delight diners with their unique interpretations of Cantonese cuisine.
Join me in raising a toast to the Chia family, their unwavering commitment to their father's legacy, and the delightful flavours that continue to captivate the hearts and taste buds of Cantonese food enthusiasts.
Eat First 食之为先
287 Geylang Road
Singapore 389334
Lunch
11:45am - 2:30pm
Dinner
5:45pm - 9:30pm
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
