Vietnamese food has to be among the healthiest with abundant use of herbs and vegetables in its dishes as well as meat being used as a condiment rather than a main course. Located snugly in a corner of the Amara Hotel lobby is a treasure trove, a restaurant and bar serving “the nouvelle cuisine of Asia .” In Hue Restobar (pronounced as ‘Hway'), you find a place in the heart of the bustling business district to indulge in a spread of authentic Vietnamese fare, a less guilty choice for those who have not found time to visit the gym.

• The Vibe
  With a largely contemporary minimalist interior, the enchanting charm of Hue 's Vietnamese culture works in tandem with a touch of deliberate modernism. Earth and woody tones were the theme of the furnishings while the indigo and gold drapes which adorn the main deck pervade the place with its brand of sophistication and alluring sensuality. An open concept kitchen allows the chefs to exhibit his culinary mastery to curious guests. The lower deck showcases a selection of over 170 imported lager and boutique wines displayed proudly in a ceiling-high wine rack where diners may purchase at retail prices. There is also the option of alfresco dining just outside for those who prefers the natural air or the warm caress of the sunlight.

• The Food
  Since its opening in December 2004, Chef Khoa Hong oang who was talent scouted from Vietnam , continues to spare no effort to bring to Hue 's guests quality traditional Vietnamese cuisine. The menu is small but what sets it apart from others is that orders can be made for either a sampling or regular portion. This is of wide appeal to ladies or children who would like to opt for a manageable smaller portion.

  Commence your meal with the Deep Fried Spring Roll ($8 sampling, $12.80 regular) which was crispy on the outside and steaming hot on the inside. The Fresh Spring Roll ($8 sampling, $12.80 regular) bursting with fresh and crunchy vegetables was a competent contrast to the fried version. Its skin was a bit thick though. Dip them in the Vietnamese Dipping sauce (Nước Chấm) for a satisfying complement. The Jackfruit Salad with Sesame Rice Paper ($9 sampling, $12.80) is also well recommended with its delightfully sweet and tart flavour. However, failing to match up to its counterparts was the Prawn Meat on Sugar Cane Stick ($4.50) which was a tad too tough and tasted rather insipid. Nevertheless, a sip of “Uong Tra”, a refreshing glass of mint-flavoured Vietnamese Iced Tea ($7) managed to brush the earlier blemish away.

  Revel in the novelty of the Vietnamese Stuffed Chicken Wings ($4 each) which were painstakingly de-boned and stuffed with pampering fillings of minced chicken, mushroom, spring onion and lime leaves. Another must-try for the main course is the Grilled Lemongrass Beef ($14 sampling, $24 regular). Hot and tender with a tinge of lemongrass, it was so good you can hardly resist taking another bite.

  Conclude your meal with the Glutinous rice with Mango ($6) which is somewhat like a cross between a nonya kueh and a sushi. The slice of mango is like a shimmering crown to the plainess of the rice.

• The Service
  The staff were humble and polite, helpful without being at all imposing. The waitresses don a short Áo Dài, a short light green tunic, indicative of the strong Vietnamese roots of the eatery. The initiative to change your plates was praiseworthy and similarly, you hardly have to suggest a refill of your glass of ice water.

SD Food Advisor's take on Hue Restobar
Although Hue has given a respectable account of herself to whipping up some of the most celebrated authentic Vietnamese dishes, there is still room for this sublime beauty to introduce more flamboyance to its menu. Being more adventurous with the flavours will help beef up a repertoire lacking of excitement. Nevertheless, Hue remains a quality choice for Vietnamese food fare. Bento sets at $22 and $26 for lunch and dinner respectively are excellent choices for the busy business executive who wants a fuss free selection of Hue 's favourites. Give yourself a breather during your lunch break!