Having undergone a massive revamp, The Summerhouse is set to be a perfect spot to chill. With beautifully manicured gardens, it is a wonderful setting for weddings and private events plus a pet-friendly café on the side.
Walking around this large black and white bungalow gave me a sense of relaxation that set the mood for my visit to Au Balcon, a French Dining Room, housed on the second-floor. As I climbed the stairs, the first thing that struck me was “wow a great venue for a wedding.”
Moving through this indoor area, light streaming through the closed outdoor area, was like a breath of fresh air. White furniture lifted the space while sleepy willow adorned some parts of the walls, cascading softly to accentuate a meltdown mood. I was ready to kick back and relax with a Citrus Mint Squeeze. White wine, gin, lemon and mint! How refreshing.
French flavours with a twist, Au Balcon felt like a summer escape. As starters were served, the aroma of chargrilled octopus wafted through the air. One bite into this tender protein coupled with lettuce, potato and olives, I liked the different take on Nicoise Salad. Kelong Tiger prawns sourced locally, another difference to this dish, were sweet to the taste.
Star of the seared Atlantic scallops dish was the Romesco sauce it sat on. Almond and chargrilled bell pepper blended to give a charred, sweet flavour. I was inspired to make this the next time I had guests over. It made for a delicious accompaniment.
Cauliflower puree lovers could choose the baby spinach and Truffle vinaigrette combo with a prized Florentine organic egg that pulled this dish together. So many more entrees on offer plus a variety of charcuterie if one was into artisanal cold cut varieties.
Focus of the afternoon turned to mains, amidst the chatter of rebalancing diets after a plethora of festivities that had come before. It was on our minds but there we were, a table of 12 stuffing our faces, yet again. Social animals we called ourselves, loving the friendships and exposure to fabulous restaurants around Singapore.
Kuhlbarra Barramundi pan-seared, served with a creamy polenta. Yum! A drizzle of crustacean reduction found itself meandering around the plate, lifting this fish to an even more delicious level.
I am a Kuhlbarra fan. That is what I eat at home. Sustainable farming that yields depth of flavours, usually requiring no condiments. Yet this was one instance when a full-flavoured reduction made such a difference.
My favourite for the afternoon though was the Pluma Iberico that followed. Bursting with flavour accompanied by an amazing apple celeriac puree that was out of this world. I could not follow this at home (I don’t think) for it definitely came from expert hands.
Many raved about the charcoal-grilled Wagyu striploin that was served rare with broccolini and smoked potato puree. Vegetarians had the option of a cauliflower steak or squash risotto.
As coffee orders were taken I felt like a walk around the garden again. Enjoying the serenity that it brought, this gave me reprieve to step away for a break. Noticing a pavilion on the side I could imagine many who would have tied the knot here.
Chef appeared with her last two offerings for the day – dessert who many hold out for. Not me. I loved a scoop of the citrus crème brulee served with home made ice cream. Well priced at $16 shared by three of us, all of whom were really only looking for a palate cleanser.
Paris Brest a choux pastry dessert filled with hazelnut cream was divine. Full of flavour it was a delicious dessert one I would recommend that isn’t found in too many restaurants.
My take on the Summerhouse? If I were looking for a chill spot far from the madding crowd that was well priced this would be it. Dinner on weekdays and brunch that starts at 11.30am to 3pm on weekends, this is a lovely way to let time stretch.
Au Balcon at The Summerhouse’s new dinner menu is available daily except Tuesdays from 1 February, alongside a refreshed brunch menu that is served on the weekend.
a. 3 Park Ln, Singapore 798387
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