The Gem of Nyonya has been an establishment that we had been wanting to try out for quite a while ever since we had spotted them opening at the basement of Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre. It does seem that these folks are in a phase of expansion however; these folks had just opened yet another new outpost this time in the basement of Capitol Singapore. This location would be a The Gem of Nyonya (Express) outlet, and this outlet is situated right next to that of 800 Bowls 八百碗 there. For those whom are unaware, The Gem of Nyonya is a concept by the sane folks behind Big Elephant Penang Signature that has been operating at Havelock 2 for quite a while. Being branded as an “express” outlet, The Gem of Nyonya (Express) at Capitol Singapore does feature a different menu as compared to the Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre location; the menu at Capitol Singapore being a much more simpler version offering patrons four different dishes featuring chicken, pork, fish and prawn paired with Blue Pea Rice which works great for individual diners.

Much like what one would expect, the Nyonya Braised Pork Rice at The Gem of Nyonya (Express) does consists of elements such as the Nyonya Braised Pork, Blue Pea Rice, Braised Egg and a Sambal on the side — all rice set items also do come with a canned beverage of the patron’s choice on the side which the patron can help themselves to in the display fridge beside the counter. The Blue Pea Rice that accompanied the Nyonya Braised Pork Rice does come in a beautiful shade light indigo; the braised egg coming with a fully-cooked egg yolk as well. The highlight here is undeniably the Nyonya Braised Pork which sets it apart from braised pork dishes from other cultures — the cut of pork chosen here does come with a balance of leanness and fattiness; not too gelatinous, but yet provides a good meaty bite. The meat has also seemingly absorbed the flavours of the braising liquid as well; whilst carrying a distinct sweetness from the caramelisation apart from the savoury notes going on here — this also matched very well with the zippy sambal chili served on the side that provides a bright, zingy spiciness that tickles the tastebuds even for those whom are tolerable to moderate levels of spiciness.