From a modest stall in a hawker centre to 2 restaurants, Saveur has certainly come a long way. The folks here pride themselves for bringing quality French cuisine to the masses at wallet-friendly prices.
Upon entering, I was impressed with the warm ambience as I expected monochrome, simple interiors, similar to the relatively unadorned branch at Purvis Street. It was already full house when we arrived at 12 noon. We left our name and contact details and left for some window-shopping. Approximately 10 minutes later, we received a call inform us that our table was ready. Its’ nice of them to provide this service instead of expecting diners to stand around waiting. Saveur does not accept reservations, so come early or be prepare to queue.
The menu is simple, with no French terms to confuse you. Prices are indeed very affordable, but portions are so small, so you will have to order quite a bit before your tummy is satisfied (I had 2 appetizers, a main course and a dessert plus shared a side with 2 friends).
Mushroom Cappuccino ($4.90) arrived in a cute coffee cup and frothy foam atop. Thick and creamy, bursting with earthy flavors, it warmed my digestive system for more to come.
The Instagram-worthy Saveur Pasta ($4.90) fell short of our expectations. Its essentially capellini tossed with chilli oil, fine chopped Konbu and minced pork sauce, glittered with Sakura Ebi. Sadly the pasta was overcooked, and the sakura ebi lacked crunch to give the starter its much-required texture.
W thoroughly enjoyed her pan-seared Foie Gras ($7.90) with creamy lentils and pickled pearl onion. The generous portion pleasantly surprised us.
As we heard good things about the Saveur’s duck, all of us ordered Duck Confit ($12.90). The leg sat on a bed of homemade mashed potatoes; on the side were sautéed shiitake mushrooms, orange segments and orange infused natural jus. The duck leg was well browned and crisp on the outside, while remaining tender inside. I like that the meat was not overly salty and the orange added a zesty kick that brightens the dish.
If you are not a fan of duck, other main course options include Pork belly ($10.90), Chicken roulade ($9.90), Sea bass ($14.90), Lamb shoulder ($16.90) and Beef Bourguignon ($16.90).
Potato Gratin side left a lingering garlicky flavor in the mouth. However, lacked a layer of golden crust characteristic of the culinary technique.
Cookies and Milk ($9.90) dessert arrived looking quite the enigma. Dig deeper and discover a patty of icy cold cookie dough ice cream, cherries kirsh, sparkling candy and peanut butter. Awesome combination of flavors and textures, accompanied with a fun popping sensation in the mouth.
Chocolate and Hazelnut ($8.90) was nothing to shout about. Chocolate mousse with crushed hazelnuts, broken raspberries, roasted rice puffs, chocolate tuile and praline. The mousse was pitifully normal and overwhelmed the hazelnut’s nutty aroma.
Overall, an OK place for a casual meal dates and catch-up with friends. I’s stop short of recommending Saveur for first dates or deep conversations, as the layout of the place is too cramped.
For pictures and full review, pls visit:
http://madamechewy.com/2014/06/24/saveur/
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