MAGGIE JOAN’S

01-01, 110 Amoy Street, S(069930)

TEL: 6221 5564

With its moody dining room and nondescript Gemmill Lane side entrance, Maggie Joan’s is a holein-the-wall gem. Step through its doors and be rewarded with a modern European meal accentuated with inspired Asian touches—such as the light-as-air shiso tempura, substantiated with slicks of taramasalata and nori, and spruced up with lime zest.

The dishes are creative and fun, but not overly fussy, and while portion sizes are on the modest side, they’re great for sharing with a companion. Other top plates include the Hokkaido scallops with miso beurre blanc (best savoured with chunks of the house-baked sourdough) and the faultlessly tender spiced lamb loin, which found its match in a side order of sweet and subtly spiced roast carrots. Servers are friendly but non-intrusive, and the restaurant is a favourite among couples on a date due to its sexy ambience. The wine list is varied and extensive, with Old and New World labels to choose from. Service staff give spot-on recommendations, so don’t hesitate to ask.