Korean food fans may already be familiar with Song Gye Ok, the Korean grilled chicken specialist that has earned a loyal following for doing something many restaurants overlook.
Yes, chicken and not beef.
The brand began in Seoul, where it gained attention for its charcoal grilling technique and its focus on specific cuts, including parts often considered secondary.
After the success of its first Singapore outlet at Telok Ayer, it has opened its second location right in town at The Centrepoint.
This Centrepoint outlet feels more refined and less ‘chaotic’ than its predecessor.
With a larger and better laid out dining room, the space copes well even when grills run continuously through service.
The open kitchen sits comfortably within the space, allowing diners to watch their food being BBQ-ed without feeling overwhelmed by smoke or noise.
Chicken is still the star here.
If you come with a friend, the Combo Set for two ($98) allows diners to choose between the SGO Classic Set or the SGO Selected Set, paired with one shareable dish and grilled rice balls.
The Prime Set for four ($148) includes the larger SGO Signature Set, two shareable dishes, and grilled rice balls, offering a fuller view of the restaurant’s range.
(But wait a minute, I walked past it the other day in June 2026, and realised prices have increased quite a fair bit.)
On the grill, the SGO Classic Set features tenders, thigh, soft bone, marinated thigh, and seasonal grilled vegetables, while the SGO Selected Set introduces organ cuts such as gizzard and heart alongside breast soft bone, thigh, and tenders.
I liked the thigh best which was the most tender cut (guess I enjoyed something ‘safe’ too), with a clean smoky char that hit the right notes.
Organ cuts like heart and gizzard bring firmer, chewier textures that may not appeal to everyone but remain true to the brand’s intent.
Some people may find the seasoning light though. Worry not, as a selection of condiments (like the awesome garlic) is provided to adjust seasoning.
The shareable dishes include SGO Cheongguk Doenjang Stew, Bibim Noodles, and Jidori Udon. Oh, that’s Samgyetang too.
This is offered through its collaboration with the viral MODU, where the soups are slow cooked for over 12 hours, resulting in broths that feel clean yet deeply nourishing.
Options include Truffle Samgyetang ($46), Perilla Seed Samgyetang ($38), Hangover Samgyetang ($37), and Hanbang Samgyetang ($35). Pricing is slightly on the higher side.
For those expecting bold marinades or large portions, it may feel ‘reserved’ or not filling enough.
Also, a pity about the relative huge increase in price compared to when the restaurant first opened.
For those curious about a disciplined approach to Korean grilled chicken, especially beyond the usual cuts, it offers a well-executed experience.
Song Gye Ok 송계옥 – Centrepoint
The Centrepoint #02-53, 176 Orchard Road, Singapore 238843
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
Song Gye Ok 송계옥 – Telok Ayer
113 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068582 (Near Telok Ayer / Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Opening Hours: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm (Sun – Thurs), 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 11pm (Fri – Sat)
Other Related Entries
Bancheria (Beach Road)
Bulgogi Syo (VivoCity)
Gagahoho Ox Bone Soup (Burlington Square)
Tonshou (Tras Street)
MODU Samgyetang Specialty Korean Restaurant (Mandarin Gallery)
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