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2013-12-17
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The only restaurant nestled within the Flower Dome of Gardens by the Bay, Pollen Singapore is an offshoot of One Michelin Star Chef Jason Atherton's flagship restaurant- Pollen Street Social in London. Collaborating with local hotelier Loh Lik Peng once again (other partnerships include Esquina, Keong Saik Snacks and 22 Ships in Hong Kong), the interior of the space- designed to mirror the experience of dining in an indoor garden has floor to ceiling glass paneled walls showcasing a backdrop of
Though Pollen has been around for at least 1 year now and has received rave reviews from both the media and friends alike, I had not found an occasion special enough until my sister's birthday last week, to try the Mediterranean-inspired modern European cuisine served here. Reservations are highly recommended so that the restaurant can arrange a complimentary buggy-ride for you right to the doorstep of Pollen. And especially if you are dressed to the nines with heels and all that, that ride is absolutely necessary. Alternatively, you can also choose to take a slow 15 minute stroll from the main entrance.We had the Festive Set Lunch (available from 1 Dec 2014- 1 Jan 2014) and paid $65++ for a 3 course meal which ended off with coffee/tea and Petit Fours.
Our server started us off with an amuse bouche of warm homemade baguette roll with seaweed butter on the side and Parmesan Truffle Rice. We particularly enjoyed how the umami rich seaweed butter glided on the slice of baguette so smoothly and every bite was gloriously satisfying. A simple pairing that scored points with both of us.
Probably the best course of all three, the mains were the highlight for me.The first we had was the Poached Cod Fillet which was thick, fresh and sweet. Everything you could ask for in the taste and texture of a good cod, they nailed it. Complimented with some Eastern influence as promised by their concept, the fillet sat on a bed of savoy cabbage and light curry sabayon. The hint of spices was unmistakeable and brought this dish to a whole new level of exotic.
Next was a Bronze Turkey with Pork and Apricot Stuffing- a necessity in all festive menus, the turkey was moist with every bite and sweetened so subtly by the apricot stuffing. Loved how the confit carrots and brussels sprouts added to that rustic overall look.
For desserts, JAAL was a tad intense and colourful with Pollen 76% chocolate. The bittersweetness of the chocolate with a slight acidity from the dark plum and playfulness of the puffed rice pulled this whole dessert together with flair and elegance.
Overall, food and service were both impressive. Contrary to multiple reports that the latter was spotty and inconsistent when Pollen first opened, my experience this time could not have been more different and I was very well looked after by all the servers. A place I would definitely recommend to bring that special someone.For full review and photos: http://gninethree.com/2013/12/10/pollen-gardens-by-the-bay
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