PUBLISHED July 14th, 2017 07:00 am
Long accepted as a classic combination, fried chicken and waffles are the cornerstone of classic Southern cuisine. And it’s through their food that you see the Southern values of honesty and hospitality shine. The Bird is a manifestation of just that, with generous portions, hearty meals, and a sort of homeliness enhancing the generous two-storey restaurant and bar.
The brainchild of renowned restauranteur John Kunkel, The Bird is the first Asian extension of his award-winning Yardbird Southern Table & Bar. With locations in Miami and Las Vegas, Kunkel has set his Singaporean fixture apart with specials inspired by local food, such as the Low Country Laksa ($38). Made with red snapper, Carolina gold rice pirlau, and a caramelised ginger coconut broth, it’s a Southern interpretation of a familiar favourite.
Familiar flavours abound in The Bird’s menu, and the simple, farm-fresh ingredients employed by the outlet certainly do shine through. The Shrimp n’ Grits ($39) are great example of this, with large, juicy seared shrimps, roasted tomatoes, and aged Kentucky chicken ham delivering strong, bold flavours. These elements studded a bed of creamy, velvety grits, which rounded out the dish well with its density and subtlety. Equally unctuous, the Macaroni & Cheese ($14), is set to be an easy crowd pleaser. Baked with five artisanal cheeses and a crispy herb crust, this side will add another level of indulgence to the already sinful dishes on the menu.
Less heavy is the Fried Green Tomato BLT ($18), a fresh starter with green tomato, frisée lemon vinaigrette, and pimento cheese bundled with a thick wedge of house smoked pork belly, fixed in place with a healthy dollop of smoky tomato jam. Meaty and tender, the pork belly is a definite show stealer.
Of course, a visit to The Bird isn’t complete without an order of the eponymous bird itself. The Chicken ‘n’ Watermelon ‘n’ Waffles ($45) adds to the usual with the inclusion of chilled spiced watermelon, which serves to refresh and keep things exciting between the savoury bites of chicken and waffle. Brined for 27 hours and fried with a secret blend of spices and flour, the chicken is juicy, well seasoned, and satisfies perfectly. While you can never go wrong with fried chicken, this is a serving that far surpasses merely making the mark. Fans of fluffy waffles will enjoy the cheddar cheese waffle, which goes great with the accompanying bourbon maple syrup. While not quite spirit forward, the syrup is a departure from its sickly sweet counterparts and brings a new flavour dimension to the plate.
True to the concept, bourbon features heavily at the bar, with options like Pappy Van Winkle, Jefferson’s Aged At Sea, and rare expressions of Blanton’s laying behind the counter. Cocktail lovers can also look forward to tipples such as the Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade ($27). Served with a mason jar and made with Wild Turkey bourbon, blackberry puree, fresh lemon, and angostura bitters, it’s a tangy blend that cuts through the greasiness of the food. The Watermelon Sling ($24) is another refreshing drink, featuring Death’s Door white whiskey, fresh lemon and watermelon juice, Aperol, and just a hint of rosemary.
With its large portions, heavy mains, and a reliance on the deep-fryer, food at The Bird is definitely made to be shared. So gather your friends and family, and delve into the warmth of Southern cuisine and hospitality.
The Bird Southern Table and Bar is located at #B1-07 (Galleria Level) & #L1-82 (Bay Level), The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018972, p +65 6688 9959. Open from 11am – 11pm daily.