Who says fine dining has to be all about Western cuisine? These days, more and more Asian restaurants are embracing gourmet dining and we’re all for it. It brings a fresh twist to date nights and it makes our ancestors proud!
One cuisine that’s increasingly offering a more elevated alternative in Singapore is undoubtedly Indian cuisine, as seen from the growing number of Modern Indian restaurants popping up.
27 Degrees West is the newest kid on the block, conveniently located at Orchard Road (perfect for shopping afterwards!). The restaurant, helmed by Mumbai celebrity chef — Varun Inamdar, boasts a chic interior with subtle nods to Indian design.
It’s split into two sections, with the kitchen in the middle. You’ll step into the cocktail bar through the outdoor area facing the street. Grab a seat, kick back, and watch the bartenders work their magic. At the back is where you’ll find another outdoor and indoor seating area (for those who can’t live without aircon).
For appetisers, I particularly like the Togarashi Tossed Bhindi Jaipuri (S$15). Crispy fried okra is sprinkled with shichimi togarashi (Japanese spice) and accompanied by a beetroot chutney ketchup.
I’ve got to admit, I despise beetroot but I couldn’t stop myself from going back for more. The sauce had a noticeable BBQ flavour, so it balanced the earthly taste of the okra wonderfully.
I then moved on to the mains, starting with the Jowar Khichdi (S$25). This dish is made with millets and desi ghee, and topped with crackers for an added crunch.
All in all, it felt comforting and familiar, satisfying my Asian taste buds even without a trace of rice or carbs. If I had to be picky, a light drizzle of cream would have elevated the dish and provided a rounded taste.
Another standout for me was the Smoked Lamb Rack, Beliram (S$55), with the lamb marinated in Kolhapuri masala and served alongside Punjabi Beliram gravy.
The lamb was cooked to perfection, tender enough to slice through like butter. It can be slightly heavy on the stomach, so I’d recommend having this for dinner. Feel free to pair it with wine for the ultimate indulgence.
I also had the Naan (S$6), which comes in six flavours: Plain, Cheese, Black Pepper, Butter, Truffle, and Garlic. They had a light crisp on the outside, with a soft and fluffy center but, most importantly, they weren’t so chewy that I felt like I’d be chewing for days.
Whether you’re dipping your naan in the lamb sauce, jowar khichdi, or the signature Butter Chicken, you really can’t go wrong. All three of them complemented the naan well.
Once we were done with our savouries, it was time for desserts. Chocolate Mess (S$15) is the chef’s pride and joy as it was crafted specially for the Obamas — and now you can get a taste of it.
Was it worthy for the ex-President of the United States? Absolutely. Not only is the plating simply beautiful but also the chocolate ganache was decadent and complex. The mix of cranberry and raspberry added much-needed colour to the dish and fruitiness to amplify the flavour notes.
Throughout the meal, I washed down with The Prince of Cocoa — a concoction featuring cacao nibs-infused Sailor Jerry rum, demerara sugar and bitters. It’s a bold drink, so if you’re like me and appreciate a stiff tipple, you won’t be disappointed.
For something lighter, opt for the Indian Ocean. True to its name, the drink mimics the sea with its mesmerising blue layers. It’s enhanced with edible glitter, creating a dazzling, sparkly effect when you give it a swirl.
All cocktails are priced at S$24 each.
Given 27 Degrees West’s elegant ambience, location, and the calibre of the chef, I anticipated higher prices. So, you can imagine my surprise when I discovered that the dishes are actually quite affordable.
I don’t say this often but I’d definitely be coming back, be it for date nights or casual dinners with the girlfriends. In fact, every Wednesday is ladies’ night from 8pm to 9.30pm, with free-flow prosecco and house wines.
Ready to spice things up?
27 Degrees West
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📍362 Orchard Road, Singapore 238887
🕐 11.30am–11pm (Sun to Thu), 11.30am–12am (Fri to Sat)
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Photos by Sheree Chua
