Crystal Jade Seafood is located among the seafood restaurants at the UDMC seafood area along East Coast. It's at the very right end, facing the sea. They have 2 dining areas - 1st floor for al fresco dining and 2nd floor for air conditioned dining. While other restaurants (except Jumbo and Red House) packs in moderate crowds, Crystal Jade was quite packed, perhaps due to the brand name.
Staff was prompt to get our order, and within 10 minutes, we started eating. Our first dish was this Deep fried bean curd with salt and pepper (S$6). It is simple to make this dish (tofu, flour, hot oil, salt + pepper), yet very addictive.
Stewed E-fu Noodles (S$14) - It was a birthday dinner, and that is why we had noodles. I doubt chefs in Singapore can do anymore special things to this long time favourite dish in almost all Chinese restaurants in Singapore. The version here is good.
BBQ Tilapia with Nonya Chilli (S$28) - I read on a review that the BBQ Tilapia is a must order. True enough, the fresh live fish was charcoal grilled with a savoury and zesty nonya chilli paste. The end result is sweet fresh meat with spicy tangy chilli paste. Two thumbs up for fans of BBQ seafood.
Since this Charcoal Roast Duck was free, we didn't expect it to be really good. However, this duck dish was so good it became the best dish of the night. The meat was very fragrant and tender, not to mention juicy. Skin was not too oily and crisp due to the charcoal roasting technique. This is a must order here.
避风塘 (Crispy Fried with Garlic) style Sri Lanka Crab (S$48) - This is a very famous and popular way fo eating crabs in Hong Kong. The most popular being at this place which is frequently referred to as "below the bridge" area in Hong Kong, where there is a stall there which cooks very good crabs.
Here at Crystal Jade, the crabs were no doubt big and sweet. However, I think we still prefer the "wet" style of crabs, such as chilli or black pepper style. I do like the crunchy garlic though.
Ended our meal with the Taiwanese Mango Snow Ice (S$4.90) and Fresh Milk Snow Ice (S$2.90) .
Crystal Jade Seafood BBQ
Blk 1202
East Coast Parkway
#01-01
East Coast Seafood Centre