Asiaone Just Woman

Oriole Cafe & Bar

Hidden from sight by the construction site that is fronting Somerset Road, and located right inside the new Pan Pacific Serviced Suites, is the spanking new Oriole - an all-day cafe with a full bar that will surely bring out a girlish 'ooh' at first sight.

Cafe culture is evident here - you can order a main course and a coffee or just hang out at the bar and indulge in side of fries with your cocktail anytime. It's easy to get comfortable with some of your best girlfriends and soak in Oriole's easy vibes and relaxed atmosphere.

When Diva popped by for a chill-out evening, the finger food did not disappoint. We ordered three appetisers, shared among four, and are happy to note the portions were sufficient for sharing as we spaced them out among our drinks.

While the fare was commendable, it was the cocktails which wowed. Don't let exotic-sounding names like Breakfast Cocktail ($15++) and Strawberry Pepper Margarita ($15++) put you off, as the mixtures are blended to perfection. When we were there, owner Keith Loh and bartender "Bear" began experimenting with new flavours such as bubblegum and lemongrass. Mr Loh explained that he was on the constant lookout for new drink recipes.

Contact details
96 Somerset Road, #01-01
Pan Pacific Serviced Suites
Singapore 238163
Tel: 6238 8348

Opening hours
Weekdays: 10.30am - 10.30pm
Weekends: 10.30am - 11,30pm
Breakfast is available from 10.30am - 12noon on Sundays and public holidays

Cuisine
American-inspired with a local touch.

Portions
Good for sharing, especially if you want to try variety. A good selection of appetizers double up nicely as bar food.

Setting
Laid-back atmosphere, with lots of booth seats. But if you're into your drinks, we recommend the bar seats so you can watch the bartender at work. Music is at a comfortable volume, so you need not shout for your friends to hear you. However, noise from the construction works outside is a constant background accompaniment.

Must-tries
• Salted codfish croquettes with a lemon aioli dip ($11.50++). Each piece is a hearty-sized portion that comes beautifully served with a side of salad.
• Braised lamb shank in veal jus & wine with mash and savoy cabbage ($28++). Ordered as a main course, the meat was tender and aromatic and soft enough to come off the bone without much effort.
• Ginger & Lime Daiquiri ($18++). Made with gingerbread syrup to give the cocktail a mild, agreeable taste that still has hints of ginger.

Price factor
Be prepared to spend about $30 - $40, more if you do decide to order a main course, including drink

Things you didn't know
The cafe was opened in December 2008, by the same owner at Whitebait & Kale. So you can expect good food..

Verdict
Good place to head to for after-dinner drinks. Or if you just want to hang out in the same place all night, order dinner and drinks there.