From the baby blue interior to the lovely plating and delicate food flavours, the new Royal China has the potential to attract (and keep) a loyal female crowd.
When the Just Woman team reviewed the restaurant during lunchtime one Friday, noise levels were well within the bearable range, and conversation across the large round tables was not too difficult. However, we noticed that the restaurant caters mostly to groups of diners, so it might be better for those get-togethers with your ex-classmates or former colleagues, rather than cozy tete-a-tetes.
Service was attentive and personable. and some dishes were so good we were almost rendered speechless. This is one restaurant where the food firmly takes centrestage. It is a big plus if you are holding a reunion for ex-classmates whom you have not seen in years: the good food will serve as a talking point should you run out of things to say to one another.
Contact details
#03-09 Raffles Hotel Arcade
328 North Bridge Road
Tel: 6338 3363
Cuisine
Refined, elegantly presented Chinese food. No MSG is used.
Portions
Dainty without being stingy. Expect to walk away feeling full, but not too bloated.
Setting
The baby blue interior with white furniture and gold finishings will appeal to your inner Tai-Tai. Two private rooms are available, so do call ahead if you are coming in a large group.
Must-tries • Baked BBQ Pork Puff ($4.80 for 3 pieces): Crispy, flaky skin surround a generous, savoury, chunky meat filling.
• Soup of the day ($28 per pot): The chef tailors the daily soup to the weather, and includes herbs and other ingrediennts that are supposed to be have beneficial effects on one's health and complexion.
• Aloe Vera Jelly ($8): This dessert was very refreshing after a full meal. Dried sour plums add a wonderful kick to the light jelly which includes a variety a fruits such as peaches, blueberries and strawberries.
Price factor
About $35 per person for lunch/dim sum; $70 per person for dinner
Things you didn't know
Some of the best items at Royal China are not on their a la carte menu. Do call ahead and ask for these dishes:
• Braised Inamiwa Noodles with African King Prawn ($15): These silky Japanese rice noodles are a must-try.
• Simmer Winter Melon with Assorted Seafood ($10): Light yet satisfying.
• Silken Treasures ($8): A medley of very light custard, superior stock, fried mushrooms, abalone mushroom and vegetable.
Verdict Best for group outings with your former schoolmates for those semi-regular meet-ups. Brides-to-be looking for a cozy wedding banquet venue might want to check this out as well.
