We are well into 2022 and Singapore’s restaurant landscape is in full swing – nevermind the dining restrictions and no alcohol after 10:30pm. This month, we’re seeing a trend in new restaurants opening in two particular areas: Orchard and the CBD.
The former has always been challenging when it comes to finding good places to eat while the latter is a sign of the times: that the CBD crowds are returning in numbers large enough to support the F&B ecosystem. Here’s more.
Caviar
IF there’s anything the pandemic has taught us, it’s that life is too short to restrain from indulging. This February, head to newly opened restaurant Caviar at Palais Renaissance which offers the biggest selection of the dark sturgeon roe anywhere on the island. The kitchens are presided by Head Chef Karleen Kasim who was previously at Cure and Na:eum. Keep a lookout for its seven-course Sunday brunch where dishes like kombu tart with uni custard and roast beef cooked over binchotan are all beautifully paired with caviar.
French Fold
When French Fold first opened in Telok Ayer in 2021, it drew long lines as diners flocked for a taste of its galettes and crepes. Now, the cafe, which is opened by the same owners as Merci Marcel has raised the shutters on the second outlet, this time at Palais Renaissance. Expect moodier interiors and new additions to the menu, like the simply named Number 11, which would remind locals of the much loved South Indian thosai. Here, a yellow curry base is paired with sautéed shrimps, leeks and the sweetness of onions.
Koal
It seems like Orchard Road is blooming with new restaurants this month as the Les Amis Group has just opened a new spot in the hip shopping district. Koal specialises in char-grilled meats so come prepared to dig in to hearty dishes like Crispy Pork Riblets and grilled Hanging Tenders, all of which will come with moreish sides like sesame Chimichurri and kimchi butter sauce which makes tucking in on these perfectly grilled pieces a real joy.
Aether House
Can’t have enough of French food? Aether House is the newest French restaurant to have set up shop. The kitchen here is overseen by chef Laurent Brouard who was previously the Group Executive Chef of Bistro Du Vin. Expect a French menu of light bites with petits plats (small plates) of l’escargot, foie gras terrine with sourdough toast and braised beef cheek with potato rosti and red wine sauce. Wash it all down with a fine selection of French wines. Plus, don’t leave without trying the kaya and pandan soufflé paired with gula melaka ice cream.
Sol & Luna
It seems no new office building these days can exist without two things: an built-in park and a reputable F&B joint. Newly opened CapitaSpring in the CBD has just welcomed Sol & Luna, a bistro with Latin and European inflections. Enjoy its homemade pastas like the ravioli and the tagliatelle Beef and Pork Bolognese while those skipping on the carbs can order up the delicious Wood-Fired Wagyu Bavette. If you’re only feeling slightly peckish, tapas are available from 11am – 10:30pm.
