The hype: A clear overlook of the Marina Bay skyline is probably the main draw of this rooftop level restaurant and bar, which was most formerly ME@OUE. The same owners have taken away the open kitchen concept and revamped it into VUE (expect a view to match its name), with two main offerings—grill dining and spritz bar.
The vibe: The 60-seater main dining area is a cavernous, high-ceiling space that is intimate yet roomy at the same time thanks to good use of full-length windows. Smart mood lighting then adds to the cosy ambience. Over at the 36-seater spritz bar, lounge comfortably as you take in the sights, cocktail in hand. You can choose to sit by the terrace too, for front row seats to watch the world go by.
The food: Dry-aged beef grilled over binchotan are the stars of VUE’s dining programme. Choose USDA Prime Black Angus ($88-158) or A4 Black Wagyu ($108-228) cuts, depending on your preference for greater beefiness or marbling. Each steak is served alongside onion marmalade, red wine jus and snowflake rice-salt.
You’ll want to try their other dishes. French oysters and seafood platters are available, but it’s the charcuterie that impresses. There’s a good selection of pressed meats, sausages and cold cuts to choose from. Take the chef’s choice ($38 for 3 kinds; $58 for 5) to get a good variety for sharing, that comes with condiments and sides.
For appetisers, the halibut and scallops ceviche ($38) won’t disappoint. It’s a generous bowl of seafood, corn, nuts and shallots mixed with a homemade citrus-based spicy tiger’s milk emulsion, perfect for an addictive and satisfying start to your meal. And other than the aforementioned steaks for your main, there’s something for everyone whether you’re craving pasta, risotto, fish, pork or vegetables.
The drinks: There’s a massive wine list here, with a good number of them available by the glass ($17-23). Or get VUE’s signature cocktails that ranges from the refreshing Straits Gimlet ($20) to the Old Fashioned-like American Dream ($28). If you’re mainly here for drinks and the view, definitely opt for a seat at the semi-alfresco spritz bar area or the terrace instead. There’s a full-on spritz cocktail menu with drinks that are perfect for relishing in our weather.
Why you’ll be back: Most will be drawn to VUE for, well, the view (which is fine). But this penthouse establishment offers more than that. Those dining at the restaurant get treated to a live carving ceremony every sunset. Having drinks at the spritz bar? You get complimentary canapes to whet your appetite with every Spritz ordered. Reservations can even be made through WhatsApp. It’s a breeze to make VUE your regular haunt.
