The buzz: Arguably Singapore’s first dedicated Portuguese restaurant has taken over this quaint three-story shophouse space formerly occupied by Italian restaurant Oca Grassa.
The vibe: The place is pleasantly airy, the type of joint where you could plonk down at the bar and have some tapas and a glass of wine after work. Each floor has its own theme, with an open bodega feel on the first, a sit-down dining room with booths on the second and a wine, olive oil and cheese bar on the third floor. The interiors are super gorgeous and come in cooling shades of blue and a soundtrack of croony, salsa-esque tunes interspersed with bossa nova beats.
The food: Most plates are meant for sharing and showcase the best of Portuguese cuisine. There’s a refreshing and tender octopus salad ($24) with a medley of capsicum and onions; the boozy flamed chourico ($28) that’s burned with brandy; and the homey shrimp bread porridge ($28), a staple in Portuguese homes. Don’t miss the famed bacalhau ($28) comprising dry salted cod, black olives and a cracked egg.
The drinks: There’s an extensive, Portuguese-leaning wine menu that extends beyond the usuals of vinho verde and Port. Easy drinkers include the white Quinta de Gomariz G. Escolha ($16/glass, $79/bottle), as well as the red Quinta do Vallado from Douro ($16/glass, $80/bottle).
Why you’ll be back: Gorgeous and breezy decor aside, Portuguese food has tons of comforting flavors. It’s not the most refined compared to its European counterparts but that’s why it’s a great option for after-work drinks or a lazy weekend lunch.
