Call it a glow up. The Fat Prince has transformed into The Prince. Previously a kebab cafe-bar serving modern Middle Eastern fare, the restaurant has been given a makeover and now serves traditional Arabian cuisine with a contemporary flair.
It’s a dining experience that’s supposed to beguile guests with the bewitching saga of a fictional Prince, a “sojourner whose journey through the sands is imbued with the desert’s enigmatic splendours”. He gradually discovers the true spirit of the land, echoed in the energetic pulse of its inhabitants and joyful communal feasts that celebrate life’s simple yet profound pleasures.
It’s all meant to captivate the romance of the Arabian desert, and yet, it makes for a slightly uncomfortable encounter as we are encouraged to view the desert landscape, its people, as well as the restaurant, through an exotic lens.
Compared to its former self, The Prince’s “abode” is more elegant, plush and homely, thanks to sandstone hues and natural materials like polished wood and marble. Other elements, however, like the statement Arabic calligraphy artwork on the walls, and a fusion deep house soundtrack with Middle Eastern/Arabic harmonies, are less enchanting. Yes, they are part of The Prince’s narrative but they are akin to oversized Chinese lanterns and dragon motifs in a Chinese restaurant – it’s a tad too much.
Then comes the menu itself. The cover page is decorated with Arabic writing – when asked what they mean, no one is sure.
An oasis of flavours
Luckily, beneath the fairy tale is a menu befitting a prince. But first, exactly what is traditional Arabian cuisine? It’s as diverse as the Arab World which consists of 22 countries in the Middle East and North Africa. While aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon, slow-cooked meats, hummus and kebabs commonly feature on tables, the dishes at The Prince are a more imaginative, contemporary take on the cuisine, all wrapped in the Arab tradition of hospitality and generosity.
It’s also why the dinnertime four-course Karam menu (“karam” in Arabic means generosity) is named as such. Starting at $78++ per person, this highly recommended prix fixe menu is The Prince’s invitation to communal celebration, so bring family, friends and colleagues – the dishes are best enjoyed together.
The meal starts with the generous nine-dish Mezze Platter comprising Cashew Hummus, Salmon Pastirma, Pumpkin Baba Ghanouj (a twist on the classic with butternut squash), and more. They are accompanied by warm, freshly baked bread. It’s tempting to indulge (you get unlimited servings) but pace yourself because there’s more to come.
The next course is the Lobster Shorbat Addas, a robust soup of spices, lentils, and tender lobster meat. For the main course, vegetarians can choose between the Romanesco Steak or Sweet Vine Peppers. Meat lovers can top up (from an additional $32 to $68) to enjoy the Lamb Porterhouse, Black Hog Tomahwak, USA Prime Ribeye, or Whole Mediterranean Seabass. End the meal with an Arabian classic, the Kunafe dessert topped with pistachio cream and rose syrup.
The Prince also offers a four-course Set Lunch Menu ($32) with one dip, two mezze, two kebabs, and dessert; and a four-course Brunch Set ($65) that includes a dip, a mezze, a hearty main, and dessert.
The restaurant is not halal as it offers a diverse beverage selection, including cocktails. The drinks menu features spice-infused cocktails and exquisite wines sourced from Arab vineyards, as well as an array of zero- and low-alcohol options.
Should we bend the knee to The Prince? The answer is yes, as long as the food continues to be delicious. Take away the mysticism and grand tales, and The Prince is one we all love to meet.
The Prince is at 48 Peck Seah Street Singapore 079317.
