This happened:
Went to Oriole Coffee + Bar at Pan Pacific Suites (Somerset) with these two! Bert still had her bangs then, which has since grown out to a side-fringe (this thus gives you an indication of how long ago this occurred).
If you frequent the Somerset 313/Cineleisure area, you
probably know where Oriole is. You've probably walked past it a million
times. It's just a little way down from Marche (which is within 313),
and it's opposite Brotzeit. There's something about Oriole... The
rather inviting front entices you to step in. However, there's just
something about its location - smacked right at the spot where seas of
people are passing by - that makes you want to walk right by as well. IF you're a coffee-lover, resist all urges to skip Oriole! Because they have excellent coffee, no-nonsense and simple.
There're both seats inside the bistro and al fresco dining; the latter highly recommended in the evening to casually scope out the ongoing people-traffic.
Melcher got the Philly Steak & Cheese sandwich (S$18)
Bert decided on the Garlic Prawn Risotto (S$25) on my recommendation! It's as a risotto should be, creamy and the arborio grains are al dente (with a bite!).
And I got the Beef Cheek Tagliatelle! A generous amount of tender beef slices, soaked in red wine reduction.
Their main courses fall in the "It's yummy but I won't specifically return for the food" category. I think with Oriole you pay for the atmosphere and the privacy (if you pick a table in the depths of the cafe). Plus the good coffee, of course!
Tried the desserts for the first time!
I don't really remember this past it being a crumble with caramel drizzled over the biscuit crumb bits!
Also got the red date pudding, which is really yummy!!!! :D Decadently sweet thou, so those who don't like sweet treats, please stay far away.
Stayed pretty long at the place chatting away!
Waiters need not have good photography skills.
Had better luck out of the bar after pouncing on an unsuspecting stranger!
I recall that a young punk approached me shortly after Bert and Melcher left me (I was in search of socks at Uniqlo!) and invited me to a party the next day. Needless to say, I was highly amused and kindly declined the invitation.
Good god, children nowadays.
Labels: dinner, Oriole Cafe & Bar, Somerset
