The hype: The Potato Head Family’s iconic burger concept Three Buns gets its very own standalone location, in a spacious 80-seater at Robertson Quay. There you’ll find the same quality burgers that first put the brand on the map, some outlet-exclusive additions, and an unparalleled island vibe that brings some comfort to the upscale area.
The vibe: Deviating from the whimsy of its Keong Saik sister, the decor here is more laidback and island-inspired; very fitting for a brand hailing from the holiday central of Bali. A focus on sustainability and zero waste sees the place fitted with upcycled materials and lush potted plants.
The food: Fret not, the kitchen is still headed up by Executive Chef Adam Penney of Lonsdale in London, and patties are made of grass-fed Australian meat. You can get the Potato Head Folk signature Smokin B-Boy ($23) here, but you’ll want to try the five new burgers exclusive to this outlet—which are a lot easier on the wallet too. For fromage lovers, there’s Bun DMC ($16), a cheesy delight that features unique watermelon rind relish for an extra flavorful kick; or Da Cheese Master ($15), Chef Adam’s take on a classic greasy food-truck cheeseburger, brought to life with a burst of mustard. Also new is the Red Man Burger ($28)—he was listening to rapper Red Man when he created it—that goes local with soft and tender rendang beef cheek and a bun made of coconut oil and coconut milk.
If you’re getting a dog, opt for a Seng Dog ($12) with matcha bread and wasabi mayo—which pairs surprisingly well with your choice of chicken or beef. To share, definitely the new Miso Dirty Fries ($9) that come drenched in miso bearnaise and floss; or the house favorite Naughty Fries ($9) if you want something less rich.
There are also brunch mains (only on weekends) and desserts available at the full-service outlet. We’ll recommend the Blueberry Basic ($15) pancakes, crumbly Blackcurrant & White Chocolate Cheesecake ($8) and Sticky Icky Wicky ($7)—a deadly sticky date pudding oozing gula melaka and toasted coconut butterscotch sauce.
The drinks: Pick your poison—cocktail or milkshake. Three Buns serves up expertly crafted tropical cocktails like G&T reiterations Strawberry Fields ($18) and the Royal Gin & Juice ($18). But we’re here for the milkshakes, available in both boozy and non-alcoholic variations. Between the chocolate-rum concoction Aye Sailor ($18) and banana-based 3 Monkeys ($18), the latter is an instant favorite for its banana with a light whiff of whiskey that makes for easy drinking even in the day.
Why you’ll be back: For days when you don’t feel like making a whole day of heading to Potato Head Folk, Three Buns is a fun and comfortable alternative where you can get the same top-quality burgers for less. The boozy milkshakes and breezy Bali aesthetic (which fits perfectly on Robertson Quay) only make it better.
