Anyone who frequents Bangkok, Thailand would have at least once on their trips dine at the famous Greyhound Cafe. An offshoot of business for the acclaimed Thai fashion label, Greyhound (known for its avant garde and wearable basics with a twist),  the cafe is loved for its innovative thai-western fusion that translates flavours of thai cusines to contemporary Italian and western dishes. Think Tom Yam style pasta with a spicy twist. But beyond satisfying your palette, Greyhound Cafe is an inspiration for all interior decor fans. The very playful and unexpected decor of their cafes is definitely an attraction of its own. I am always a fan of its eclectic mix of industrial modern and local design touches from the environment to even the cutlery and menu design.




So when I heard Greyhound cafe is opening an overseas branch in Singapore (after Hong Kong), I definitely jump for joy at the thought of being able to enjoy my favourite thai style fried chicken wings and river prawn pastas close to home! The new Greyhound cafe in Singapore is located at the ground level of Paragon, tucked at the back which quiet and shields you away from the busy shopping crowd. The cafe is not an enclosed space, more like an open concept dining corner in the midst of the walkways of a mall. So do not expect full blown artistic interior design as per what you see in Bangkok. But there are still touches of Bangkok’s design in this Singapore branch. Most memorable are the subway tiles marked with alphabets forming the brand. Cleverly arranged, they somehow still read Greyhound cafe in any direction despite the ‘chaotic’ arrangement.

The 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.
And now the most important part many of us are curious about... Is the menu the same as Bangkok? What about the pricing? Well, to all greyhound cafe fans, I will say most of the popular menu items are available. My favourite ‘pink cooler’ healthy cocktail, tom yam pasta and the most delicious fried chicken wings are all there. From what I have been told, there might even be Singapore exclusive specials coming soon. So rest assured, you may not have to travel to Bangkok just to have your favourites. That is if you are willing to pay more than in Bangkok.

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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