Restaurant Andre was a dream come true for the chef, who once dreamt of a small restaurant with an olive tree outside and a blue door. It felt quite romantic having learnt about this story, and his ability to make his dreams a reality.
Not everyone has the determination to realize their dreams, and Chef Andre does so well with his cooking and passion to entertain every diner.
The decision to lunch at Restaurant Andre was straightforward – it’s a better timing for photography. The lunch menu isn’t as complicated as their dinner offering, where Chef Andre focuses more on his “Octaphilosophy” cooking ideas. A fancy term coined to represent his ideals – which i still find it hard to understand. I was hoping to have a few words with the chef to hear more about this, but apparently he was too busy in the kitchen to spare some time.
The lunch is a good demonstration of his French culinary techniques. My favourite was their mushroom broth with black bone chicken egg. The yolk felt exceptionally dense and creamy. The finger food was also curiously interesting – a touch of miso on top of the eggplant puree, and the cracker provides the texture.
Having the chance to try both Andre and Jaan (at the Swissotel Stamford), I’d say I prefer Restaurant Andre, though Jaan felt more like a fine dining spot. If it’s culinary skills you’re looking for, Restaurant Andre feels more refined. Nevertheless, Jaan would better suit a more formal occasion (and views from Singapore’s tallest hotel is a plus), while Restaurant Andre felt cozy and at home.
Restaurant Andre
Address: 41 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore
Tel: +65 6534 8880
Visited on: 15 Jan, 2013
Price: SDG$128 – 298
Hours: Lunch, Tues – Fri ; Dinner, Tues – Sun
Chef: Andre Chiang