If you are looking for an unusual, laidback restaurant for that next girls-get-together, Riders Cafe might just be right up your alley.
Situated inside Bukit Timah Saddle Club, the year-old cafe boasts a tranquil setting, complete with the occasional sight of horses trotting by. The charmingly rustic ambience is completed by the high ceiling and ceiling fans which help ventilate the non-airconditioned premises. Ladies who are sick of being stuck in freezing air-conditioned rooms everyday will find this cafe a welcome relief.
The food is also surprisingly good. The menu has more than just your regular salads and sandwiches, and the cafe even serves wine and alcoholic cocktails for those who just want to chill out.
Riders Club is usually packed on the weekends, so do call ahead. Otherwise, we suggest this for a weekday lunch or dinner - the casual atmosphere is sure to help you unwind, and the occasional sight of magnificent horses being led for a walk is sure to thrill the animal-lover in you.
Cuisine
Mostly western dishes. Expect salads, sandwiches, pastas and meats.
Portions
Fairly generous and good for sharing if you and your friend have small appetites.
Setting
Despite the lack of air-conditioning, the cafe is well ventillated by ceiling fans and French windows which open out onto a balcony overlooking the stables. The high ceiling also creates a more spacious feel, while the unpretentious wooden furniture add to the rustic charm of the place.
Must-tries • Herb-crusted Lamb Rack ($30++) - The three racks of lamb are very well-prepared: tender, slightly pink in the middle, yet full of flavour without any offensive gamey odour. Even non-lamb lovers should give this a try.
• Chipotle-Lime Pork Chop ($26++) - Yorkshire pork is used for this dish, and the tender meat is white, not grey. The chipotle and lime marinade bring out the flavours of the juicy cut, while the simple sauce enhances the savoury taste of the meat.
• Death By Chocolate ($12++) - Served with vanilla ice cream, this generous serving of moist and rich chocolate cake is drenched in chocolate fudge.
Price factor
Budget around $25-45 per person, depending on whether you order drinks and desserts.
Things you didn't know
The cafe occupies the former premises of the clubhouse of Bukit Timah Saddle Club, and it is easy for patrons to roam around the club's grounds. However, do respect the horses - do not touch them, scare them or attempt to take photographs of them until you have been given permission by their owners.
Verdict A great venue for those times when you and your girlfriends just need to getaway from the city, but have no time for a beach retreat. Some surprisingly good dishes and the laidback ambience make this cafe worth a visit or two.
