11 must-go eateries at Keong Saik
PUBLISHED ONApril 04, 2014 5:22 AM
Among all the hopping 'hoods in our fine dining capital, one that's killing it right now is Keong Saik Road. Tucked between New Bridge, Kreta Ayer and Neil Road is perhaps the hippest and most underrated dining hub in Singapore.
This Chinatown offshoot is bustling with some of the best culinary talent in the city, with cuisines to suit every craving. So we've rounded up the best and brightest of Keong Saik Road (and neighbouring lanes) for the authoritative rundown on all that is good and tasty in the area.
1. Esquina
Taking tapas to the next level, famed chefs Jason Atherton & Andrew Walsh put a stylish, hip spin on Spanish bites that are so inventive, it's been drawing a crowd to the corner nook since its doors opened. Order the Georges Bank Seared Scallops or Mini Spanish Breakfast, and try not to gawk over the sleek counter seating at the chefs' masterful work. Or else grab an al fresco table - definitely date night worthy!
2. Mariko's
This sexy Japanese concept is so much more than just a smashing cocktail bar. Venture away from the standing crowds outside to the dining area for sleek decor and sensational ramen, yakitori and tempura!
3. Lime House
It's time to lime! (That's Caribbean lingo for chilling with friends.) Diners' voted and named this one of their most coveted spots to make table reservations with Chope, and we couldn't agree more. Caribbean fare is a tasty yet rare find in the Singapore dining scene, with island classics like curry goat with sweet plantains, juicy jerk chicken and umbrella-worthy cocktails done just right.
4. Magma German Wine Bistro
For classic German comfort food, head here for some prime pork knuckle and schnitzel, but don't miss lesser-known favourites like "flammkuchen"- just don't call it a German pizza!
5. The Study (Formerly Keong Saik Snacks)
This cool eatery has taken a page from the book of its epically cool, clandestine bar neighbour, The Library, and rebranded itself The Study. Offering throwback British cooking with an updated and elevated approach, the Baked Bone Marrow, Fish and duck fat Chips and Doughnuts are especially crave-worthy. Despite its bookish name, the vibe is anything but!
6. Bartini (Formerly The Retrospective)
The Retrospective has had a blast from the past with an updated menu featuring classic Western comfort food to match the vintage diner vibe. Not to worry, die-hards, the famous mac & cheese is still available!
7. Oca Grassa
Single-handedly changing the widespread perception in Sinagpore that Italian cuisine is all pizza and pasta, this protein-focused kitchen is grilling premier cuts like the 1.2kg Fiorentina steak that easily satiates 4 or more diners. Seasoned simply with Himalayan sea salt and charcoal-grilled to perfection, it is a delicious demonstration of rustic Italian fare, and we are not even missing the carbs!
8. OSO Ristorante
It doesn't get more quintessentially Italian than classic decor, homemade pasta, super fresh carpaccio and a delightfully heavy hand with the black truffle. OSO is an authentically delicious experience!
9. Hashi
Hashi is a year-round gem with its zen-inspired decor and laser-focus on precise Japanese gastronomy. It is helmed by Executive Chef Tadashi Takahashi, who last headed the kitchen of Nobu Melbourne, Sushi and Sashimi Chef Kondo Mayasuri, most recently at the acclaimed Nogawa Japanese Restaurant.
10. Vida Vino
A sleek and sexy wine and tapas bar, the futuristic decor is just something you will need to see to appreciate. The fare is classically Spanish, which matches the highly unique wine list perfectly.
11. Taratata Bistrot
Rustic French cuisine doesn't get any more charmingly bona fide than this checkered-tile and red-boothed bistro. Sporting a chic vibe, sounds of clinking classes and scents of roasting and stewing, Taratata transports you to an eatery along the streets of Paris. The kitchen helps in setting the scene, churning out some of best homey French fare in not only the area, but perhaps in the city, if you ask us!