Greyhound Cafe Singapore
December 05, 2016The industrial modern elements are also present here. There is a ‘house-like’ black metal structure anchoring the space, bringing attention through an eye catching element despite the restricted footprint. The use of wood and metal, a mix of high chairs and tables or leather tufted banquette seating are comfortable and reflects the casual smart attitude of the space. What I truly love is the use of plants to liven up the space. Greenery in an industrial style setting prevents the design from getting too cold and hard.
To be fair, Singapore is an expensive place to setup an F&B business especially in the heart of prime retail land in Orchard Road. So price increases are to be expected. The drinks costs a range of SGD14 for the healthy fruit cocktails and SGD12 for the Thai milk tea granita. And most pasta and rice dishes are priced in the mid SGD20s level. So be prepared to spend about SGD40 for a basic main and drink combination (and that is exclusive of GST and service charges.) Thankfully, the flavours justify the price. My Tom Yum Seafood Pasta still got that spicy kick and the generous serving crab meat fried rice is a delight too. However, the major complaint I had was that the prawns for my pasta. It was featured with a huge shelled river prawn on the menu imagery but I got baking soda soaked prawns in reality instead. The artificially enhanced crunchy baking soda soaked prawns is a no no for me. Greyhound Singapore should refrain from doing prawns this way as it taste artificial and does not bring out the freshness of the ingredient. In Bangkok, you always get perfectly seared fresh prawns. This is a disappointment which I hope they will rectify.
Greyhound cafe opens in mid December, (if I am not wrong) 15th will be the date. (I had the privilege to have a preview trial dining last weekend. Service was good and they are ironing out any problems during this period to ensure smooth operations when the cafe officially opens.)
Ambiance ★★☆☆
The cafe despite being an open concept space has nice interiors that reminds you of their branches in Bangkok. The industrial style is modern and yet cosy with warm woods and comfortable leather seating. The menu and cutlery also has creative graphics that delights you while you dine. However, if you want good instagram opportunities, it is limited. Especially with the enclosed interior lighting which can be quite harsh for foodie pics. But for a cosy get-together for food, it is quiet and non restrictive.
Flavour ★★☆☆
The dishes we tried taste like what we remembered in Bangkok. Still very delicious. Except the disappointment in the way my prawns were cooked. Baking soda soaked prawns decreases my ratings by a star. Hope they use fresh prawns in the future!
Pricing ★★☆☆
It is at least 30% more expensive than Bangkok. But since you saved on the airfare and you can dine in the comfort of your own home country... It is acceptable. But I feel as an open concept F&B space (not a proper shop space), the price is a bit steep even in Orchard Road. Be prepared to spend average SDG40 for a drink and main.
Ratings:
★★★★ Excellent. Highly recommended
★★★★ Great. Deserving a thumbs up
★★★★ Good. Fulfill its promise
★★★★ Mediocre. No surprises
Greyhound Cafe Singapore
Paragon
290 Orchard Road, Singapore 238859
Nearest Train: Orchard/Somerset
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