The latest venture by the Awfully Chocolate group, housed in the Esplanade, occupies a sprawling space which on several visits was unnervingly empty. That raw industrial feel with concrete flooring and bare grey walls might work well for other spots, but in Loola’s case, the chilly vibe (and temperature) left us cold; we’re not fans of the white metal ‘grater’ chairs either. Although we’d be the first to concede that some effort is made to warm up the spot in the form of cheery, well-meaning staff and the sounds of lite jazz and easy listening loungey music. Pass on the truffle oil-tossed chilled capellini with hollandaise sauce and ikura ($15). You’ll fare better with mains such as the pan-seared pork belly ($26); crisp lotus root chips and bubble and squeak serve as interesting escorts. Even better is the spatchcock chicken ($36). Accompanied by caramelized fennel and string beans, it’s a very decent sized portion that comfortably serves two as advertised. As with all Awfully Chocolate-associated eateries, it would have been remiss to skip dessert. So we ordered a signature floating island ($15), a good decision on our part that saw the flambé of a moreish meringue-topped brownie table-side. Perhaps not the most exciting or original meal to date, but for a casual restaurant, the food’s good and they get points for effort (they sliced, portioned and served our chicken). One of the better eateries in the area and worth at least a visit; the flambé performance is a great pre- or post-show treat.
Don’t miss: Pork belly. It’s one of I-S Magazine’s 50 things to eat in Singapore before you die (2012).
