Our infatuation with the Kilo brand is no big secret – its stellar Asian fusion menu, its Kilo Lounge alcove in Kallang that’s hosted everything from yoga workshops to fashion parties, and even a breezy branch all the way in Bali; we dig ’em all. But the Kilo folks have come up with yet another concept that’s knocked our socks off and made our mouths water – introducing Camp Kilo Charcoal Club, a hip BBQ restaurant located right below Kilo Kallang at Ture Building. We recently swung by the club for a lil’ taster, and to see if it was worth all the hype.
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The aroma of smoke and BBQ meat hit us immediately once we stepped through the Ture Building gates, welcoming us as we casually sat ourselves down in the alfresco patio that overlooked an open kitchen and charcoal grill (we suggest wearing light if you’re the sweaty kind). The décor is simplistic yet inviting – wood-topped tables and chairs laid across a concrete floor, adjacent to booths of rusting metal that we hear might be used for impromptu DJ sets during BBQ backyard parties. But it’s the food that’s the real MVP; as expected of the Kilo culinary philosophy, the menu is a mish-mash of influences, such as American, French, Spanish and even Thai. With raging appetites, we tried a bit of everything.
Starting with the whole roasted pig – marinated with spices, lemongrass, garlic and spring onion – its meat was easy to chew, and its taste balanced both the smokiness of the grill and the natural gaminess of the pork. And the skin? Crackling, fatty perfection, without being too oily. Likewise, the pork ribs here slide off the bone (we didn’t even need a knife), and the soft meat is addictive when dipped into the mildly-sweet chipotle BBQ sauce.
And it’s not just the pork dishes that impress; the Kai Yang roasted French poussin comes out as a small whole chicken packed with exotic Asian spices and is fuss-free to eat. But don’t stave off the sides; from tom yum stewed beans and sweet creamy corn, to patatas bravas and coconut rice, these are all punchy accompaniments that will turn your feast into a communal fiesta. So join the club while it’s hot; Camp Kilo’s all set to grill the competition.
Camp Kilo Charcoal Club, #01-01 Ture Building, 66 Kampong Bugis, Singapore 338987, p. 6467 3987.