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The Singapore outpost of Tokyo’s La Luna Rossa has opened its doors at Scotts Square.
When True Blue re-located from East Coast Road to its current location at Armenian Street, the general feedback from diners was that the food was still good but very pricey for the small portions served. Furthermore, what drew flak from the press and public were the extra charges for pre-meal items such as prawn crackers and pickles, that added up to a rather hefty bill. Although pricing and portions haven't changed that much, the staff have been trained to ask diners if they want these extra bites before placing them on their tables. This at least gives them a choice instead of an unpleasant surprise at the end of the meal.
At the end of the day, dining at True Blue is all about the experience. The floral scent that fills the dining hall, the atmospheric setting, the floral arrangements, the antique lanterns and other charming décor are reminiscent of a gorgeous Peranakan residence of yesteryear. Aside from aesthetics, owner Benjamin Seck continues to ensure that food is cooked from the heart. Although True Blue doesn't serve pork, the dishes here are nicely executed and laboriously prepared sans shortcuts.
A series of small-sized dishes were presented not long after we placed our orders. We started with the kacang botol salad - thinly sliced, crunchy winged bean and fresh prawns tossed in an appetising sweet, sour, spicy dressing. Next was the bakwan kepiting. The restorative soup brimmed with julienned bamboo shoots and meatballs filled with fresh crabmeat. The golden brown pieces of ngoh hiang were highly satisfying too - the minced chicken meat was studded with waterchestnuts for a lovely crunch.
For mains, we chose the Nonya speciality of ayam buah keluak. The flavours were bold and piquant, with enough depth overall. You need to scoop out the meaty nut to enjoy with the well-balanced gravy. The chap chye was not just any token vegetable dish but a true star at our table. The flavourful mixture of soft cabbage with slippery tanghoon, wrinkly tau kee, dried lily buds, black fungus, and mushrooms, stewed with tau cheo was perfectly balanced in taste and texture, and woven with a large dash of soul.
Our lunch for two cost about $60 per person. Although the bill won't break the bank, it's still considered pricey for a Peranakan restaurant. We would nevertheless recommend this place to anyone who would like to bring overseas guests for a meal, or those wanting to celebrate a special occasion with satisfying authentic Nonya flavours.
47/49 Armenian Street, 6440 0449
