Cassandra Xu isn’t your typical chef. She started as a graphic designer. Then she became a full-time mom. In 2013, she created Singapore Home Cooks — one of Singapore’s biggest cooking communities on Facebook.
Fast forward to 2024. Cassandra launched On Embers. It began as intimate private dining sessions at home. Now she’s taking over Chef X from October 10 to November 2, 2025.
The best part? Her grown kids work alongside her. Talk about a family affair that’ll warm your heart (and your stomach).
What Makes On Embers Special
Open-fire cooking is the star here. Everything gets grilled over real flames. The result? Smoky, charred, absolutely delicious food that you can’t get anywhere else.
The signature dish? Nasi Bakar — fragrant grilled rice infused with aromatics, herbs, and coconut oil. It’s Indonesian street food elevated to new heights.
The Menu That’ll Make You Drool
Babi Bakar: The Crowd Favorite
This is the dish everyone’s talking about. Iberico pork collar sliced shabu-shabu thin, folded, skewered, and grilled to perfection.
The secret? A house-made bumbu seasoning and kecap manis glaze. Think crispy charred edges with a juicy, tender center. Every bite delivers different textures and explosive flavors.
- 120g portion: S$19
- 250g portion: S$24
Ayam Bakar: The Classic
Tender boneless chicken leg marinated in fragrant spices. Grilled over open flames until smoky and savoury. Paired with Nasi Bakar, it’s comfort food done right.
Price: S$16
Cumi Bakar: The Seafood Star
Fresh squid gets the same spice treatment. Grilled to perfection with that signature smoky char. This one’s only available during the Chef X residency.
Price: S$24
Trio Platter: Share the Love
Can’t decide? Get everything. This feast includes:
- Babi Bakar (250g)
- Ayam Bakar
- Cumi Bakar
- Three portions of Nasi Bakar
Perfect for 3-4 people. Price: S$58
Why You Need to Visit
Chef X gives talented home cooks a chance to run a real restaurant. On Embers is resident number 9. It’s a rare opportunity to taste food that usually only private dining guests get to enjoy.
The space lets Cassandra cook with fire without filling her home with smoke. You get the benefit of her perfected recipes in a proper restaurant setting.
Plan Your Visit
Where: Chef X at Clarke Quay Central (#03-103/104)
When: October 10 – November 2, 2025
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 9pm
Pro tip: The Ayam Bakar and Cumi Bakar are exclusive to this residency. You won’t find them on the regular private dining menu.
On Embers proves that home cooks can create restaurant-worthy magic. Cassandra’s journey from housewife to culinary entrepreneur is inspiring. Her food? Even better.
The open-fire cooking technique brings out flavors you simply can’t achieve any other way. Every dish tastes like it was made with passion — because it was.
Don’t sleep on this pop-up. Mark your calendars, grab your friends, and get ready to feast.
Always our pleasure to share good things with everyone 
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