Diva

Oomphatico's

Tucked into a little corner in Tanglin Mall and opening out onto the area between the shopping centre and Trader's Hotel is a gem of an eatery.

It's hard to categorise Oomphatico's - its prices are mostly cafe-like, with a decent dish to be had for less than $15, while the large, spacious yet cozy layout reminds one of a restaurant. The dishes are also mostly better than your standard cafe fare, with truly unusual and wonderful creations on every page of the menu.

This is an ideal place for getting together with your girlfriends, be it a cosy tete-a-tete (we suggest getting a table by the window) or a larger group gathering. Also, its delicious yet healthy food will give you the perfect excuse to pig out without feeling guilty.

Do note that it is best to go during dinner and tea time for a more relaxed, chill-out vibe. If you are looking for a nice place to have a drink with the girls after dinner, Oomphatico's serves a mean sangria ($45 per jug) as well as several other wines and non-alcoholic drinks and juices. Try the Oomphatuation ($7), a pretty drink of apple and grape juice with pomegranate seeds.

Contact details
#01-03 and #01-35/36 Tanglin Mall
163 Tanglin Road
Singapore 247933
Tel: 6733 9088

Opening hours
8am - 11pm (12 midnight on weekends)

Cuisine
Predominantly Western/Italian, with several Thai dishes.

Portions
Generous - most of the items we tried are good for sharing if you have small appetites, but will fill you up nicely if you are dining alone.

Setting
Eclectic, cheery, homely. Just walking into the eatery lifts one's mood instantly. We also like the laid-back feel and the gorgeous coloured lamps that add a touch of psychedelic happiness. Music levels can be a bit loud if you are sitting directly under a speaker (mostly near the corner seats) so do be sure to ask for a table somewhere in the middle or side of the restaurant.

Must-tries
• Tomm Khaa Kai ($18++) - This light Thai dish is great comfort food. Very light coconut milk is infused with an abundance of herbs that you actually don't mind eating. We love the fact that it is savoury and sweet at the same time, with an aromatic herbal aroma.
• The Morning Pizza ($12++) - A deceptively simple dish of arugula, avocado, feta and tomatoes on a thin, crispy crust made with organic flour. All vegetables should taste this good!
• Passionate Pomelo ($14++) - Light, refreshing and good enough for a light lunch. Pomegranate seeds add colour and nutritional value, while crunchy peanuts contrast beautifully with the juicy pomelo sacs.

Price factor
Dishes substantial enough for a main course start from $12. Budget around $25-$35 per person if you intend to have dessert and drinks.

Things you didn't know
Oomphatico's owner Jay is a holistic nutritionist who believes that healthy food can and should be a pleasure to eat.
If you have special dietary needs, do check with the wait staff if ingredients in your chosen dish can be replaced.
Oomphatico's staff also have their own little impromptu dance routine.

Verdict
A place that women will love to hang out in. The decor and ambience appeal to our inner quirky goddess, while the delicious, nutritious dishes leave you feeling energised, not bloated.

~Amy Yeong