Charismatic places to dine, compliments of American Express Selects
There is no shortage of after work watering holes, especially around Dempsey, Boat Quay and Robertson Quay. These have become the choice hot spots for drinks and bites. For a jolly good time, ambience seems to be the primary factor to make or break a place. HungryGoWhere recommends three charismatic food places, all with attractive views accompanied by familiar meat dishes that now come in bite-sized portions. American Express Cardmembers enjoy dining privileges at these restaurants.
House
‘Kong bak pau’ at the barracks
This former British military barracks has been transformed into the huge 35,000 square feet House, with a touch of quirkiness and a sense of old-English comfort. You can choose to sit at the outdoor café, which overlooks a large space of soothing greenery. House is operated by the Spa Esprit Group, and it makes good sense to have a spa or nail treatment upstairs before heading for wine and drinks.
Although the ambience in House exudes a largely English feel, the Asian delicacies dish up a local touch. We recommend the Asian Sliders ($23), more commonly known as ‘kong bak pau’ – pork belly cuts braised with dark soya sauce and stuffed into steaming hot white buns. The lip-smacking pork belly melts in your mouth while the soft and fluffy buns will leave you equally light on your feet. The crispy taro fries sides are wickedly addictive too.
American Express Cardmembers enjoy 10 per cent savings on their total bill with a minimum spend of $100. Terms and conditions apply.
House | Address: 8D Dempsey Road, Levels 1 & 2 | Tel: 64757787 | Opening hours: Mon-Fri noon-10.30pm, Sat-Sun 9am-10.30am
Loco Modern Tapas and Wine Bar
Angus beef by the river
We love the idea of having tapas al fresco style while slurping sangria along the river front area of Boat Quay, overlooking the museums and the Singapore Flyer. While Boat Quay is usually a buzzing place, especially during weekday nights, Loco Modern Tapas has found itself a quieter spot in the middle for nibbles, ice cold beers and wines at an affordable price from $45 per bottle.
Loco Modern Tapas and Wine Bar (which used to be known as Loco Spanish Tapas Bar) has moved away from traditional Spanish tapas, featuring miniature versions of contemporary dishes instead, such as mini beef sliders, baked escargots, and sautéed tiger prawns. The Angus beef tenderloin cubes ($15) are worth a try. Offered up in bite-sized morsels, the servings remain surprisingly tender and juicy. They are good to ‘pop’ down with wine, and suitable for those who prefer cutesy portions compared to beefy cuts.
American Express Cardmembers enjoy 15 per cent savings on their total bill. This offer is valid until 31 July 2013 and extends to regular priced items only. Terms and conditions apply.
Loco Modern Tapas Bar | 48 Boat Quay | Tel: 65352841 | Opening hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-midnight
The Merry Men
Mini-burgers in a warehouse
Parked alongside the Singapore River, a restaurant whose name reflects the personae of the people who started it – The Merry Men – serves up simple yet quality tapas and drinks at affordable prices. The premise used to be a warehouse, but is now a relaxing bar with a rustic feel at Robertson Quay.
Down a glass of their signature black forest mojito ($15) – a hand-muddled drink complete with a ‘forest’ of fresh berries – and sink your teeth into the beef and blue cheese mini burgers ($14). The delectable butter roll buns will not fail to delight your palate while the allure of the truffle-scented fries will have you reaching for mouthfuls.
American Express Cardmembers enjoy 10 per cent savings on food and beverages. Terms and conditions apply.
The Merry Men | 86 Robertson Quay, #01-02 Robertson Blue | Tel: 67359667 | Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5pm-midnight, Fri 3pm-1am, Sat 3pm-2am, Sun 11am-4pm & 4pm-midnight
