Author: Alexius Chua
The Garden Club opened last August with an agenda – to let diners party the night the health-conscious way. Served with the hook of visual appeal, the food was certainly healthy (no negative connotation whatsoever) and the cocktails memorable. Situated in a stunning rooftop setting with vivacious music, it’s certainly live up to its #NotYourOrdinaryFoodClub moniker.
The dishes I had were visually stunning, and the ones I liked were flavourful and hearty yet in a health-conscious manner. Take for instance the Smoked Tofu Slab. The boldness of the flavours hooked me. The tofu is smoked with applewood flakes, caramelised fennel and veggie au jus raises the umami levels to such a pleasant high.
Pardon me for jumping around courses here, the appetiser Summer Medley is such a beautiful plate. Its citrus infused compressed assorted fruits topped with basil gel and tarragon oil makes a treat to the body so strangely satisfying I can only beg for more.
Oh no carbs. But this sinful plate comes with a healthy twist. Thee Garden Ragu Fettuccine flavours hit all the right notes and with the minced texture of the house-made specialty Beyond MeatTM ragu sauce, you would never imagine you’re eating healthy.
I am a fish person, and it’s such a pleasure to savour this dish. While the Grilled Barramundi may look the most subtle among the other dishes (though I am still stoked by the plating), but the grilled sea bass is stunningly rounded and rich. The sesame tofu puree seals the deal for me.
Its easy to like this Apple Rosette Tart. While the taste is not particularly thrilling as compared to its cookie shell, it’s the type of dessert that will please all, so it’s just easier to order this for everyone to share.
Here to redefine conscious consumption as we know it, The Garden Club array of tantalising cocktails and fresh juices – pressed and squeezed on the spot – also pleased the senses inside and out. There’s the Rasa Sayang, a refreshing cooler of white wine, lychee and lemon soda, and my personal favourite which also happens to be the popular choice – The Kensington Cooler which is made of Hendricks gin, earl grey fresh lemon juice and dry lavender buds.
The Garden Club @ OUE Downtown Gallery
6A Shenton Way, #05-01, Singapore 068815
Website: www.thegardenclub.sg
Facebook: thegardenclubsg
Instagram: @thegardenclubsg
Hashtag: #thegardenclubsg
