The buzz: A fresh addition to hip neighborhood Jalan Besar, this affordable bistro is headed by chef Nixon Low who trained at top fine-dining establishments such as Saint Pierre and Restaurant ANDRE.
The vibe: It looks like the typical three-star hotel cafe. There’s a buffet set up just by the kitchen, generic prints of food on the walls and pleather banquette seats. Laminated menus and mainstream pop music contribute to the decidedly low brow vibe.
The food: Far better and more ambitious than the décor would imply. Chef Low puts out artfully and precisely plated starters like roasted cauliflower with truffle scent and brioche toast ($7), and a house mesclun salad with ume and sesame ($8)—which is served on a trendy slate board—as well as mains such as chicken confit with braised purple cabbage ($13). Dessert offerings include Blackforest ($7) a deconstructed take on the classic cake comprising “hazelnut soil” served with a mini spade. In stark contrast to these offerings, there’s also a selection of local delights like char kuay teow ($7).
The drinks: Non-alcoholic beverages like juice ($5), coffee ($4) and tea ($4). Plus, standard spirits like Beefeater gin ($12), Martell VSOP ($14) and Absolut vodka ($12).
Why you’ll be back: If you can get past the rather dive-y feel of the space, the food is actually pretty darn good and great value too.
