Culina Enoteca Dempsey Bistro

Culina, the expat butcher of choice, has finally ventured into the bistro business. Whereas they previously were just a gourmet grocer cum butchery, Culina now serves up a fairly extensive menu of European cuisine. Their flagship bistro is located in the lush Dempsey Hills, facing the similarly-conceptualised Jones the Grocer. But unlike the inconsistent, middling fare at Jones the Grocer, we thought the food at Culina was well-executed and refined; a delicate hand had been employed to highlight the sparkling freshness of the ingredients here. 

The Pan-Roasted Atlantic Cod ($33) was stellar, moist and flaky and torched with just the right amount of caramelization. Sauteed endives, wilted spinach and crunchy hazelnuts lent texture, while a luscious brown butter sauce accented with capers provided libation.

The Crispy Skinned Ocean Trout ($32) was beautifully done, paper-crisp skin, and soft flaky flesh. This was accompanied by a fennel, sundried tomato, cucumber & dill salad, and a drizzle of basil dressing

The Pan-Roasted Iberian Pork Rack ($40), lip-smackingly juicy, was complemented with the most divine jus, softened by a creamy mustard & cider butter, and braised kale.


The Beef Brisket & Portobello Mushroom Pot Pie ($32) was well-rounded, hearty and heftily portioned.

But, I wish they were just as generous with the gravy as they were the beef; there wasn't enough gravy to mop up the buttery pastry top. 

The Truffled Mac & Cheese ($18) hit all the right flavour points but was unevenly yoked. The top layers were a bit dry, while the bottom was flooded with bechamel. We had to toss this up on our own.


A favourite staple of mine, the Pan-Fried Mixed Mushrooms ($8) was just earthy wholesome goodness.

The complimentary Bread Rolls were superb; crusty, fragrant and piping hot.


Culina Dempsey Bistro
Blk 8 Dempsey Road #01-13
Dempsey Hill
Tel: 6854 8703
Open Mondays to Saturdays from 9am to 8pm;
Sundays and PH from 9am to 6pm
Website: www.culina.com.sg

Comments

Unknown said…
they have been in e bistro business for at least 4 years
21.5.15
Bern said…
REALLY????? Wow, i'm damn slow on the uptake!!

thanks for the correction!! :)
21.5.15
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