Resting serenely in Sembawang Park, the colonial house built around 1910 to house the Naval Base, has been transformed to a restaurant serving both Chinese and Western fares. Positioned to face the sea, the magnificent sea view that overlooks the Straits of Johor is bound to mesmerize you. Almost like a weekend getaway, its balmy and laid-back surrounds tosses your heavy thoughts to the back of your mind, merely leaving you with a light-hearted disposition to truly enjoy your food.

• The Vibe
  The first impression of the interior of Beaulieu house is of its lofty dining area. Extremely spacious, Beaulieu House needs no artificial cooled air from the air-conditioners as it is airy and breezy despite the sweltering heat outside. Its modest, traditional wooden chairs and tables are vaguely reminiscent of the kampong days when the entire family tucks in for a cozy meal. Unpretentious and humble, Beaulieu House echoes a sincere attitude to serve you their best.

• The Food
  Set yourself off on the right foot in the pleasant surroundings with the Masala Crab ($3.80 per 100g). According to owner, Mr Lim Hock Lye, this is the must-try dish when you are here. As seen on the images, Beaulieu's crabs are of a luminescent orange before its unique Masala gravy is poured over it. Forgo the typical chilli crab or pepper crab, this innovative dish cooked with Masala, a spice commonly used for Indian cuisines. It is simply oozing with rich greatness. The gravy is simmered with onion, chicken shreds, egg and green capsicum. The dish also comes with mantou buns to complement the delectable gravy and soak up every bit of it!

  A notable healthy dish would be the Home-made Beancurd with Wheat Grass ($12) embellished with a bird exquisitely carved out of fresh carrot and broccoli at the side. Simply presently but yet beautiful in its own way. The soft, green-colored bean curd is topped off with crunchy Honshimeiji mushroom and lightly drizzled with oyster sauce.

  For that homely feel, share a plate of Mee Goreng Special ($8) with your loved ones. Cooked with hearty portions of squids, prawns, chunky tomatoes, carrot shreds and beansprouts, this is one heartwarming dish pretty mild on the palate that could satisfy a craving for home-cooked food.

  Finally, round off your fulfilling meal with the Warm Chocolate Tarte with Vanilla Ice- cream ($10). Melted chocolate fudge instantly trickles out of the warm chocolate tarte when you cut into it. The vanilla ice-cream is served on a waffle cup next to the tarte so that it does not melt quickly.

• The Service
  The service staff is quick to refill your empty glasses with water. However, some staff is not completely sure of the name of the dishes. Nonetheless, they come across as friendly and approachable and would put you at ease for a good meal.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Beaulieu House
Beaulieu House's food and service are sincere and unpretentious, synonymous with the idyllic location it is situated at. However, the main draw of this dining house lies precisely in its exclusivity, where diners just want to keep the secret of Beaulieu House tucked away from the mainstream crowds. Its laid-back feel is bestowed by the absence of the bustling crowd, but it is also rather inaccessible to people who do not drive. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a quick getaway, Beaulieu House would be it.