The Keong Saik hood is kicking these days with tons of new restaurants and drinking dens opening shop, and we couldn’t be happier because many of them are within walking distance of our HQ. The newest kid on the block is Olivia Restaurant & Lounge, a bright and airy Mediterranean eatery located in the hip new KēSa House complex. We decided to pop in last week, and we’re already planning a trip back soon.
Our experience:
As soon as our group of three stepped through the door, we were instantly taken with the rustic decor and bright pops of colour going on in the dining room. The whitewashed brick walls, terracotta floor tiles, and blonde wood furniture contrast nicely with the deep blues of the booths and ceramic artworks on the walls. The open kitchen also creates a welcoming vibe and adds a touch of liveliness to the room.
The menu had some great options, so we asked our server to helps us decide. Our top choics of the night were the mushroom and truffle croquettes ($9), which came piping hot, golden and crispy on the outside, and filled with a smooth, flavourful filling. For mains we opted for the ham, mozzarella, and truffle open omelette ($22) and the black rice with grilled calamari ($32) both of which were hearty and hugely satisfying and definitely will be reordered when we go next.
There are so many more dishes we want to try, so we’ll definitely be back to work our way through the menu. To be honest, we find that Singapore is a bit lacking when it comes to decent Mediterranean places, so we’re stoked to see a new addition to the scene. If all of our visits to Olivia are as great as our first one, we’ll truly call this one of our top picks on the island. Also, the prices of wine are very reasonable, which always means plus points from us.
About:
Chef and co-founder Alain Devahive previously cooked in the kitchens of El Bulli and the now defunct Catalunya, so he knows a thing or two about good food. The restaurant is named after his daughter, which we think is ultra sweet, and he aims to bring a bit of Catalan soul to the space and the food. The result is a homey space and hearty food that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
UJ Tidbit:
There’s a cute cocktail bar in the back of the restaurant that would make for the perfect place for pre-dinner drinks. And speaking of drinks, be sure to try at least one of the cocktails because they have some seriously tempting tipples to choose from.
Olivia Restaurant & Lounge, 55 Keong Saik Road #01-03, Singapore 089158. p. +65 6221 0522. Open Tues – Thurs 11:30am – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm, Fri – Sat 11:30am – 2pm, 6pm – late
