This amazing new Mediterranean dining spot in the CBD offers delicious European grub and casual class
Singapore’s CBD isn’t short of relaxed coffee spots, nor does it lack top-notch restaurants, but how about somewhere in the middle; where do you head if you want to eat fabulous food in a laid-back, come-as-you-are setting? Introducing Delicacy, on Gemmill Lane.
A minute from Club Street, this new oh-so-friendly Catalan-inspired has three carefully-considered and affordable menus that are designed perfectly to synch up with every time of day. A charming European brunch selection for a chilled out breakfast meeting, a colourful deli vibe for those busy lunchtimes and an innovative Mediterranean menu teamed with fine wine and cultured ales to wash away a long day come nighttime. All of the above are happily presented by GM Yiyeksi Marhoulova, who feels like an old-friend before your bum hits the seat.
Stalwarts of Singapore’s food scene, with a smorgasbord of dining experience across the Red Dot, Yiyeksi and Chef Victor Caballe Molina know a thing or two about satisfying stomachs in Singapore. And Delicacy is where they plan to bring their valuable experience together.
After one visit to Delicacy, we can easily see this fresh, airy spot becoming a regular feature in our foodie routine. When we stopped by, Chef Victor had thoughtfully conjured up an exciting menu that gives the option of a hearty set of tapas (unique combinations and healthy portion sizes, all for under $50) or a selection of exquisite a la carte plates (think fine dining in flip flops).
When you find yourself fighting with your other half over who should have the last piece of the appetizer, you know you’re in for a treat. The heavenly olives, marinated with orange and shallots, almost caused a food-based fall out!
Fortunately, we had one each of the Catalonian-style cooked eggs with sobrasada on toast, in which Spanish sausage meat is lightly-grilled on toast to bring out an incredible smoky flavour. This compliments the egg, which is resting joyfully on a bed of chili salsa.
The comforting walnut croquetas with truffle mayo are great for soothing the palate, before the arrival of perfectly grilled tiger prawns. We’ve all been disappointed by dry, over-grilled prawns before, but not at Delicacy; there wasn’t a dry crustacean in the house! Let’s just take a second to scream about the chilli soya cream sauce. It sounds a little odd, but when doused over a prawn (which, judging by the size of it, had come straight from the gym) it’s absolutely sublime.
A true Catalan chef could be judged by his mastery of Iberico pork – and even Simon Cowell would give Chef Victor a standing ovation. The unexpected combination of iberico pork collar, baked apple and kimchi aioli was a rich explosion of flavours that offered a combination of textures; soft pork meat, melt in your mouth apple and good ol’ tooth-cracking crackling.
Round off your delightful stuffing session with a treat or two from the dessert menu. The uber fresh Crema Catalana is both delicate and powerful, with a hint of sexy cinnamon. Crema Catalana’s indulgent partner in crime came in the form of Churros with a twist – we’ll see your thick chocolate dipping sauce and raise you a chilled shot of rich chocolate milk (that you’re encourages to send straight down the hatchet once you’ve finished dipping).
Thanks to the addition of Delicacy, Gemmill Lane is fast becoming one of Singapore’s most credible dining destinations, with neighbouring restaurants including Luke’s and more exciting developments to come (if our foodie sources are correct!).
Delicacy, 10 Gemmill Lane, Singapore 069251