It’s challenging finding halal versions of popular western dishes like BBQ ribs and meat platters. But, this restaurant in Bugis is proving to be a real game changer.
Located in the heart of Kampong Glam, RIB Soul Food is a muslim-owned restaurant specialising in Southern BBQ ribs. The restaurant is helmed by the folks at The Halal Mixologist and seriouslyfuncollective, so if there’s anything that’s guaranteed here its that you’ll definitely have a fun time.
The fun begins with the complimentary Welcome Shot — don’t worry, all the drinks here do not contain any alcohol. We had the Death Shot which, contrary to its name, will not kill you. Instead, it comprises the sweetness and fragrance of honeydew which paired brilliantly with the sour zing from the lemon juice.
Honestly, this was a combination of flavours that I did not think would work, but it certainly did. And it definitely woke up my appetite.
One of their most popular dishes is the Freddy’s Lamb Ribs (S$22.90). It features two thick ribs drenched in a homemade barbecue sauce, alongside roasted vegetables and cready and super cheesy homemade mac and cheese.
I typically avoid lamb because of the gamey aftertaste, which thankfully R.I.B managed to expertly remove, while still ensuring that the ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender. However, I would have preferred if they had seasoned the meat a little bit more so that it would be more flavourful.
If you prefer your ribs to be done a specific way, then you can go for the Build-Your-Own Ribs (S$22.90) where you get to choose your cut of ribs, preferred sauce, and sides.
Another must-try dish here is the Louisiana Seafood Gumbo (S$24.90), and having tried this, I can see why it’s so popular. Starting with super umami seafood broth, it was garlicky with a prominent seafood flavour. The seafood broth also has a strong smokey aroma which elevated the seafood flavours. Seafood lovers definitely cannot miss out on this one.
The dish comes with a medley of fresh seafood like prawns, mussels, clams, fish and squid, as well as a serving of fragrant corn rice. This dish was so comforting and would be the perfect dish to have on a cold rainy day. No surprises that I’ll be back for more of this!
This next dish had me in a bit of a pickle (see what I did there?) I usually avoid pickles in my burgers but when I saw that RIB Soul Food had fried pickles (S$9) on their menu, I just knew that I had to order it. The pickles were coated in a well-seasoned batter made from poppers flour and spices, served with a tangy tomato ketchup on the side.
The fried pickles on their own were crunchy and sour. If you’re not a fan of the taste of pickles, I recommend dipping it in the ketchup for a tangier bite. As someone who doesn’t like pickles, I found this dish very addictive — another dish that I would be ordering it again.
Other sides unique southern sides include Deep Fried Okra (S$8.50), Hickory BBQ Wings (S$13.90), , or even the Creole Corn Ribs (S$8.90) — yup, it’s corn! My favourite was the Corn Chips with Southern Meat Dip (S$14.90). It comprises both fries and corn chips along with the signature housemade meat dip. I personally preferred the crunchy corn chips as it really elevated the sweetness and smokiness of the meat dip.
Drinks-wise, they’ve got plenty of quirky mocktails that are very vampire-inspired like the Bloody Injection (S$16), Bell Witch (S$16) and Goblin’s Sip (S$15). But, if you’re all for the theatrics, then you should go for the Vampire’s Venom (S$15). It comes served in a blood bag complete with a tube — need I say more?
There’s always room for dessert and in true southern fashion, you have to get the Peach Cobbler (S$11) or the Southern Banana Pudding (S$13). It is the perfect way to end of your visit to the wild west.
In the mood for something meaty? Head down to R.I.B for a seriously fun time!
Reservations can be made here.
RIB Soul Food
Instagram | Website
📍 8 Jalan Kubor, #01-01, Singapore 199207
🕒 5.30pm—11pm (Mon to Fri), 11.30am—11pm (Sat & Sun)
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Photos by Marcus Leong
I'm either mean or a meme, there's no in between.