Film lovers and movie buffs rejoice - you no longer have to resort to just popcorn and coke whilst watching their favourite actor on screen. Welcome to a new concept recently introduced in Singapore – where food meets film and vice-versa. In Screening Room, this five-storey building explores the fine cuisines of the great Mediterranean juxtaposed with different themes of films shown during dining periods.
The Vibe Each level takes on unique identities yet bearing the similar concept of film and dine, at the same time. At the basement, a bar countertop with two wall-mounted screens overlook a cosy gathering of sofas and cushions. Adjourn upwards to the bistro restaurant, a casual dining environment with hints of spring in its interior decor. Large mirrors create an illusion of an open environment as one indulges in a hearty fare from the ala carte menu. Further up the levels include a private screening room dressed with plush sofas, lounge-chairs and armchairs of all designs, as well as a rooftop bar overlooking the bright lights of Chinatown area.
The Food Featuring Mediterranean influence as well as food themes from movies, Executive Chef John See enjoys creating never-ending culinary delights and improving his menu. Indulge in the fresh greens of Greek Bread Salad with Poached Egg ($14), and be rewarded with a pleasant surprise of warm egg yolk encased in crusted bread. Or there is Fresh Anchovies & Salmon Fillet ($17.50), a blend of spice and fresh garden greens, with the tingling satisfaction of fresh smoked Scottish salmon. The Soup au Pistou ($15), adapted from the film, GodFather , matches up in its exquisite blend of tastes and sensations through its tomato-based soup. Sour and refreshing, yet rich with melted cheese, the senses are thoroughly awakened indeed.
Main courses are equally enticing with dishes like Chicken Tanjine ($26) and Tandoori Swordfish Loin ($28). A famous Morrocan dish, the ChickenTanjine is served with delicious butter pilaf rice and cooked with preserved lemons. Tender strips of chicken with a sour tinge, freshens the palate yet maintain their flavour at the same time. The tandoori swordfish loin features a sashimi cut of lightly grilled swordfish with raw flesh encased within. Marinated with zattar herbs, the firm flesh of fresh fish crumbles delicately in the mouth and leaves an aftertaste very much to be desired for repeated helpings.
To conclude the lovely meal, sweet treats are not to be missed. White and Dark Chocolate Bunuelos ($15) is smooth and aromatic, yet not as creamy and sweet. Similarly, the Raspberry and StrawberryGazpacho ($15) oozes the essence of both fruits rather than a very sweet reddish sauce. A favourite will be the aptly named Sticky Date Pudding ($15), which paves the way to dessert heaven – oven-warmed, sweet, sticky and ultimate indulgence.
The Service Sensitive to every patron's needs, be assured of warm and friendly service no matter which level you are dining at. Ultimately, their service is the icing on the cake, creating a unique and eye-opening dining experience at the Screening Room.
The SD Food Advisor's take on Screening Room This standalone building gives an edge on Screening Room – patrons will be amazed by the size and interior decoration of the all five storeys. It is not only a discovery of culinary Mediterranean delights, it is also an adventure of experiencing the different vibes of each level – be it an open and relaxed dining environment of the bistro, the cosy underground chill-out ground of drinks and film, or the alfresco lounge and chill area on the roof. Be on the lookout for special events or host one yourself, for Screening Room lives it up in both food and film – a perfect marriage between the two.