196 322
WINE&DINE
196
July14
The Clifford Pier
80 Collyer Quay
6597 5266 | fullertonbayhotel.com
There’s no chope-ing tables and
definitely no lining up for food at new,
hawker-inspired restaurant The Clifford
Pier, and no plastic chairs either. Think
the exact opposite: monogrammed cloth
placemats, cushioned lounge chairs,
courteous staff, soft lighting and the
quiet efficiency of a five-star hotel. A
part of Singapore maritime history, the
1930s jetty was once as well known for
its vibrant hawker culture as it was as a
transport hub.
Harking back to this food heritage is
a menu focused on hawker favourites.
Heritage rolls
MUST-TRY DISH:
Heritage rolls, a mixed platter of six
crisp, fresh rolls with dipping sauce
A standout is the fresh
popiah
($12),
paper-thin crepes encasing shredded
turnip, prawns, egg and sprouts. The
kong bak bao
($18), a slice of soy-
braised Iberico pork belly on steamed
white buns, is not to be missed. Classics
are done to perfection, including
carrot
cake
(wok-fried turnip cake in sweet and
spicy soy sauce with prawns, $16), and
an oh-so-fresh
oyster omelette
($16).
Traditional flavours are re-interpreted
with a contemporary twist in the
wagyu
rendang hanger steak
($28) and the
lobster roll
($29). Ice cream lovers
won’t want to miss the pandan ($9)
offering.
Drinks range from Tiger beer ($17)
to unusual non-alcoholic creations like
Virgin Red Lantern ($14), a refreshing
cucumber, lime, watermelon and
sugar cane juice, so named after the
lanterns that guided ships to port. This
is not a cheap hawker, but with quality
ingredients and a talented chef serving
food in glorious surroundings it is worth
every cent.
Katie Roberts