Alex - Here have what I know

ANDRE
Rather an unsung hero. It’s hugely popular at lunchtime - and with good reason - although quieter in the evenings, as is the problem for many restaurateurs in the CBD. Really good, straightforward French food at very reasonable prices. The escargot, duck confit and creme brulee are excellent. Give it a try.
206 Telok Ayer Street, tel: +65 6223-4548.

AU JARDIN
One of the most romantic restaurants in Singapore. Its location in a black and white colonial house nestling in the lush greenery of the Botanical Gardens is unsurpassed. This is fine cotemporary French dining at its best; just remember that it’s set menus only so do give them advanced warning if you have any food issues. Service is impeccable and as for the wine list… this is the Les Amis group after all. Sunday brunch here is sensational - a winner if you have guests staying.
Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road, EJH Corner House, tel: +65 6466-8812.

AU PETIT SALUT
Popular exec chef Pattick Heuberger and the Dempsey location have proved a winning combination for Au Petit Salut. Chef Heuberger has stuck to the same formula of well-executed provincial French cuisine except now the surroundings are much more of a conversion piece. Lunchtime is popular but the restaurant comes into its own with nightfall. Must tries include cote de boeuf, foie gras and escargots. Sommelier Elodie Jaglin is a font of knowledge, so do ask her advice.
40C Harding Road, Singapore, tel: +65 6475-1976.

BISTRO PETIT SALUT
Still a popular stalwart of Holland V, despite the exec chef moving to the sister restaurant at Dempsey, food has remained consistent and the crowd has stayed loyal. Expect the same bistro dishes you always enjoyed here, from lobster bisque and duck confit to irresistible desserts such as souffle and profiteroles. Atmosphere is as friendly and cosy as ever and service commendable. Reservations are essential for a terrace table.
#01-54 Chip Bee Gardens, 44 Jalan Merah Saga, tel: +65 6475-1476.
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BLU
While the decor doesn’t seem to have changed perceptibly since Blu first opened, it has seen a whole host of changes in concept: originally Californian, then modern European and now French-inspired contemporary cuisine. Not that we’re knocking those modifications; they say that if something ain’t broke don’t fix it, then the opposite must also be true. British chef Robin Zavou brings Michelin-starred-restaurant experience with him and has created a stylish menu of pure flavours. We’re rather keen on sauteed crayfish with linguine and shellfish foam, roasted turbot in mussel and clam chowder and roasted venison with bitter chocolate sauce - it works, trust us. Service is immaculate.
Level 24, Shangri-La Hotel, 22 Orange Grove Road, tel: +65 6213-4598.

BROTH
Still a firm favourite here at Expat. Proprietor Steven Hansen, may be Australian but the recently rejigged menu is modern European and the mood is definitely Continental. There’s nothing better than sitting out on the pavement and soaking in the unique, peaceful atmosphere of Duxton Hill over a bottle of wine. Broth is one of those restaurants where the experience is just as enjoyable whether at lunch or at dinner. The lamb loin coated in herbs is still a standout dish after all these years and whatever you do, don’t miss dessert.
21 Duxton Hill, tel: |65 6323-3353.

BROWN SUGAR
Great little restaurant in an unusual location, namely the StarDus clubhouse on River Vally. Loved it for lunch; probably fun for dinner with a group, but we’re not sure it would suit dinner a deux. Decor is simple and contemporary and food is modern brasserie style: think along the lines of mushroom cappuccino, sauteed squid, pan-seared tuna with lemon and tomato couscous, roasted veal loin. The pineapple and banana crumble was superb. Good value set lunch at S$23 for two courses or S$27 for three.
#01-04 Stardus Clubhouse, 277 River Vally Road, tel: +65 6333-6612
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