Sun, 06/21/2009 1:14 PM | Supplement
The way I remember Esplanade is as "the blingbling twin durians". I just love the fact that I can never get hungry before or after any performance I see at this iconic theater in Singapore. Everywhere you turn, those appetizing cafes, bars or restaurants are just busy saying hello your eyes.
Some al-fresco ones allure more with their bonus of the welcoming evening chill. Barossa, for instance, sells hearty Australianinspired cuisine and offers a nice chill under the stars in its laidback outdoor area while you sip on a glass of wine.
In the mood for some sinful indulgence? Take your drooling mouth to H*agen-Dazs or SG Passion Caf*, which will make you swoon with its delectable range of coffee, cakes, pastries and local delights. There are also Max Brenner Chocolate Bar and Chocz, which are paradises for chocolate lovers.
For a more humble outdoor experience, there is the popular Makan Sutra Gluttons Bay where you can enjoy most local favorites such as satay, fried carrot cake and oyster omelet under the moonlight and by the bay.
Talking about humble, there is another musttry eatery called My Humble House. Serving contemporary Chinese cuisine, the place blends the traditional feel and modern elements in simple yet stunning ambience. And there's not only oriental dishes, the bay can also satisfy Indian appetites. At Mirchi, classic North Indian food is waiting in a sleek tribal art setting. Can't say no to your sushi cravings? Just remember there is an Ichiban Boshi here, which boasts its specialty of misobased dishes and kushiyaki, which is a sizzling skewer of meat and vegetables served piping hot off the grill and dipped in savory sauces.
And when the view does matter to you, step into Orgo, located on Esplanade's spacious Rooftop Terrace overlooking the bay. Led by renowned Japanese mixologist, Tomoyuki Kitazoe, Orgo will not just spoil you with its modern French menu but also with the unforgettable views from the Rooftop Terrace.
Of course, there are still a number of other eateries that you and your friends can explore while you chill out at Esplanade. So as long as you are at the bay, hunger will be the last thing you have.
-Kathy Petite/Contributor