PUBLISHED July 1st, 2019 07:00 am | UPDATED May 18th, 2020 03:14 pm
There’s no question that Dempsey‘s an institution in the Singapore dining scene. The luxe, sequestered oasis surrounded by lush greenery is home to favourites like JAM at Siri House and the classy drinks lounge Maduro. Culina at COMO is the latest addition to join these ranks, and while it was previously situated at Block 8, the gourmet food purveyor has since revamped with cool new offerings and convenience for gourmands.
You can discover not only a bistro accommodated in the restored army barracks, but also a bakery, marketplace and even a floral boutique. Yes, you heard that right. The first thing you’ll notice when you step into the building is the high-ceiling draped with ornate chandeliers. Coupled with all-white walls and French-inspired decor, you’ll feel like you’re in the European countryside when wining and dining in the palatial setting of Culina. As such, we could see couples heading to this idyllic romantic haven. There’s also an alfresco seating area ideal for casual brunches and family days out, considering it’s just adjacent to the indoor playground Go-Go Bambini.
You should be aware by now that Culina offers some of the more unconventional gourmet foods and ingredients that can’t be obtain elsewhere in Singapore. If you’re a cheese connoisseur, you’ll be pleased by the assortment of artisanal cheeses produced by the Parisian affineur Allèosse – which is the very definition of exclusivity due to their in-house ageing process. We don’t blame you when you find yourself wanting to get a taste of it immediately, and if that happens, simply order it to the table. The Cheese Platter (S$28) is plated alongside a selection of breads, crackers and fruits, dressed with jam for an added sweetness.
Other prominent products to look out for include Rosso Di Mazara‘s red prawn elixir “Message In The Bottle” that serves as the perfect complement for pasta dishes, and the rope-hung smoked salmon by House of Kaviari, featuring tender goodness and crust traditionally charred with beech wood. Just thinking about its rustic flavour is enough to kick start the cravings.
Corresponding to its theme, the bistro specialises in contemporary European cuisine. We’ve been told that diners can regularly witness the chef touring around the marketplace in search of ingredients, so rest assured that freshness is particularly emphasised when it comes to their dishes. To start your food journey, go light with classics like the French Onion Soup (S$15) and Beef Tartare (S$32), before proceeding on to more complexity with the Petuna Ocean Trout (S$32), prepared with beluga black lentils, in addition to Maori Lakes Lamb Rack (S$42) that’s catered to all those carnivores.
When you’re ready to leave, don’t forget to pick up some housemade pastries from the Bakery or fanciful flowers from Grandiflora – the brainchild of acclaimed Sydney florist Saskia Havekes. Expand your knowledge on flora and fauna by browsing through their many lifestyle books, or if you’re big of scents, some of their perfumes. Whichever the case, there’s pretty much everything and anything at Culina at COMO Dempsey.
Culina at COMO Dempsey is located at 15 Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249675, p. +65 6474 7338. Open daily 11am — 11pm.