Shake Shack and KEK Seafood are both iconic in their own realms—Shake Shack for its American-style burgers and fries, and KEK Seafood for its Michelin-selected hawker fare. When these two popular names join forces, the result is an exciting fusion of flavours that doesn’t disappoint. Shake Shack Singapore has introduced a limited-time Zi Char-inspired menu, featuring dishes like the White Pepper Burger, Coffee Glazed Chicken, and Buah Long Long Lemonade, blending American classics with bold Singaporean flavours. The menu launches on 17th October 2024.
A Night at Shake Shack Neil Road: Our Review of the New Menu
We had the chance to try the new Zi Char-inspired dishes at a fun, disco-themed party held at Shake Shack’s Neil Road location. With the music pumping and the lights flashing, it was a night to remember—though we were more interested in tasting the food than hitting the dance floor!
White Pepper Fries: A Peppery Kick
We started with the White Pepper Fries, and they were a game-changer. Shake Shack’s signature crinkle-cut fries have always been a favourite, but this time they were topped with a rich Sarawak white pepper sauce. This wasn’t your ordinary fries experience—the sauce was creamy, with a strong, earthy pepper flavour that had a real bite. Every fry was perfectly coated, and the spice level was enough to give a warming kick without being overpowering. The white pepper added a unique complexity that really elevated this dish. It was indulgent, satisfying, and had us reaching for more. Honestly, we could have had another serving!
Coffee Glazed Chicken: Bites or Burger?
One of the menu’s standout items was the Coffee Glazed Chicken, offered in two forms: a burger and bite-sized pieces. The Coffee Glazed Chicken Burger featured a juicy chicken patty, perfectly cooked and drenched in the signature coffee glaze. The glaze had a subtle sweetness, complemented by the slight bitterness of the coffee, which reminded us of eating coffee glazed ribs at KEK Seafood. Paired with slaw and coriander, it offered a balance of fresh and rich tastes. The soft potato bun added a familiar comfort, but the glaze brought an exciting twist to the table.
However, it was the Coffee Glazed Chicken Bites that truly stole the show. These bite-sized pieces allowed more surface area for the coffee glaze to coat, ensuring every bite delivered a strong punch of flavour. The sticky glaze clung to each piece perfectly, intensifying the sweet and savoury notes with every mouthful. They were not only convenient to eat but also packed more intense flavour than the burger, making them a winner for us. If you love a strong, sweet-savoury combo, the bites are a must-try.
White Pepper Burger: A Bold Kick
Another key dish on the menu was the White Pepper Burger, which carried the same bold flavours of the white pepper fries but took it up a notch. This burger was stacked with a juicy beef patty, caramelised onions, and the Sarawak white pepper sauce that delivered a spicy, bold kick. The pepper sauce worked beautifully with the rich beef patty, adding a layer of complexity that enhanced the overall taste. The caramelised onions brought a slight sweetness to the burger, balancing the heat from the pepper sauce.
The patty itself was cooked to perfection, with a charred exterior that added depth of flavour, while the interior remained tender and juicy. Together with the pepper sauce, this burger was packed with bold, punchy flavours without being overwhelming. If you’re a fan of spicy, savoury burgers, this one is not to be missed.
Buah Long Long Lemonade: A Refreshing Local Twist
To complement the robust flavours of the menu, Shake Shack also introduced a new drink—the Buah Long Long Lemonade. This refreshing beverage, inspired by a local favourite, features the tropical buah long long (also known as golden apple or ambarella) combined with sour plum. It offers a tangy, sweet, and slightly sour flavour that pairs perfectly with the spicier dishes on the menu.
The sourness of the sour plum adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, bold flavours of the food, helping to cleanse the palate between bites. It washes down the peppery kick from the fries and the sweetness of the coffee glaze, allowing you to savour each dish without feeling overwhelmed. The drink’s light, fruity profile makes it the ideal companion for a meal packed with strong, rich flavours. We found it to be a perfect balance to the meal, offering a cooling, refreshing sip after each spicy bite. It’s not just a drink—it’s an essential part of the experience.
More Menu Highlights: What Else to Expect
While the Zi Char dishes are the stars of the new menu, Shake Shack’s classic menu is also available, offering a variety of crowd favourites that you can enjoy alongside the new items. Their ever-popular ShackBurger remains a go-to, with its perfectly seared beef patty, soft potato bun, and signature ShackSauce. Pair that with one of their creamy milkshakes—whether you opt for vanilla, chocolate, or something more unique like their seasonal flavours—and you’re in for a satisfying meal.
For those who prefer something lighter, the Shroom Burger, a vegetarian option featuring a crispy-fried portobello mushroom filled with melted cheese, is an excellent choice. It’s rich and indulgent, even without the meat. Of course, you can’t forget their classic Cheese Fries, which are as decadent as they are delicious, with their smooth, cheesy sauce draped over crinkle-cut fries.
For dessert, Shake Shack’s frozen custard is a must. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a Concretes (dense frozen custard blended with mix-ins), it provides a sweet and creamy end to your meal. At Neil Road, the location offers localised Concretes, such as the Eye of the Tiger, which blends vanilla custard with lychee, raspberry, and shortbread, for a fun twist on local flavours.
The Location: Neil Road’s Unique Atmosphere
Shake Shack’s Neil Road outlet is a perfect blend of contemporary design and local charm. Located within the historically rich neighbourhood, the restaurant’s glass façade and clean, modern lines offer a contrast to the surrounding heritage buildings, creating a unique dining experience. The open-concept dining area gives off a casual, laid-back vibe, ideal for catching up with friends or enjoying a quick bite in a stylish yet unpretentious setting.
The neighbourhood itself is worth exploring if you’ve got time before or after your meal. Neil Road is home to a mix of trendy cafes, independent boutiques, and art galleries, making it a hotspot for both locals and tourists. The combination of cultural heritage and modern energy is palpable, and Shake Shack fits right in with its own fusion of classic and contemporary food offerings.
Our Final Thoughts
Overall, the Zi Char menu at Shake Shack Neil Road exceeded our expectations. The collaboration with KEK Seafood brought authentic local flavours to classic American dishes in a way that felt fresh, exciting, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re in it for the White Pepper Burger’s bold kick, the addictive Coffee Glazed Chicken Bites, or simply to enjoy the lively atmosphere at Neil Road, there’s something for everyone on this menu. The addition of the Buah Long Long Lemonade provided the perfect refreshing complement to the rich, spicy dishes, helping to balance the meal.
We can’t wait to go back and experience it all again. With such a creative fusion of flavours, Shake Shack has once again proven why it’s a standout in the fast-casual dining scene.
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