Stepping into the newly renovated Mandarin Oriental Singapore for the first time is a revelation. Filled with light, colour and a garden-like atmosphere, the lobby embraces guests with tropical warmth, a dramatic contrast with the previous club-like interior of the hotel.
The same must be said for Embu, Mandarin Oriental’s all-day dining restaurant on level three that was formerly known as Melt Cafe. Thanks to award-winning Silverfox Studios and the hotel’s principal designer Jeffrey Wilkie of internationally acclaimed design firm Designwilkes, Embu has been transformed into a lush green space, a botanical-inspired sanctuary inspired by the evergreen tembusu, one of Singapore’s most distinctive heritage trees.
Elements of the tree are all around the restaurant, from the ceiling artwork to the louvred timber canopy and leaf motifs. The flooring is decked in Peranakan black and white tiles, evoking Singapore’s rich heritage.
The expansive indoor area features communal tables and cosy sections in the main dining hall as well as an outdoor terrace that encompasses the grill and wood-fired pizza stations. There is also a playground for the little ones.
As for food, it does not disappoint. It serves local and international cuisines at 11 culinary stations, showcasing fresh seafood and succulent meats, a wide selection of sashimi and sushi, European and Asian delights, signature Indian and local specialties, and an ensemble of handcrafted desserts.
Highlights include freshly shucked Pacific and Atlantic oysters (up to four types, depending on availability), a luxe rendition of Singapore Laksa topped with king prawn and scallop, Tandoori Chicken infused with saffron, and the locally inspired Chilli Crab pizza.
For weekend dinners happening from Friday to Sunday, diners can enjoy a variety of barbecued specialties such as Tomahawk Steak, Rosemary Garlic Lamb Chop and Thai-style Grilled Pork Jowl from its alfresco grill station.
Look out for the highly anticipated Sunday Champagne Brunch and festive offers in the coming months.
Embu is at Mandarin Oriental Singapore, 5 Raffles Avenue, Marina Square, Singapore 039797.
