Many of us are excitedly(!!!) planning a European winter sojourn over the coming months now that travel restrictions are easing. So to remind of us all of the splendid gastronomy we can expect in Europe, look no further than the quintessential Burgundian style bistro Gaston.
Gaston is nestled into the heart of the famed Keong Seik Rd and represents an authentic, vibrant bistro from the delightful region of Burgundy (famed for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir – incidentally two of my favourite wine styles).
We are warmly greeted in French by the owner and host Geoffrey – who true to his French origins wears a charming Beret. With a nod to its wine heritage, the space is immersed in French wine art and memorabilia creating a casual, warm and entertaining atmosphere.
Reporter Rebecca Assice and husband Robin at GASTON Burgundy Bistro
Settling down at a cosy table for our lazy lunch, we are offered a range of Saturday lunch specials including a dozen Fine de Claire oysters with a bottle of stunning Perrier Jouet Blanc de Blancs champagne for only $188++ (this divine premium drop is normally $169++ on its own).
We choose the very special seasonal mussels to start ($38++), flown in from Mont St Michel (a beautiful island in Normandy of which we have fond memories having visited it the day after the French hubby proposed). These perfectly small and plump mussels were easily the best we have had all year – such a sweet and succulent flavour served mariniere style.
The impressive Rumpsteak Angus is up next – 1.2kg of slow cooked to perfection meat with crème fraiche, mustard dressing and fries – it immediately brings a beaming smile to hubby’s face. More than enough for two (or even four) and very well priced at only $108++ for the Saturday lunch special.
Dessert is always a difficult decision to make in a French bistro and Gaston is no different – taking recommendations from our host we indulge in the Peche Melba - poached peach with raspberry coulis, vanilla ice cream and crumble along with the Tarte au Chocolat Valrhona Guanaja – a decadent praline and ganache dark chocolate tart with vanilla ice cream. Both sinfully divine in all the right ways.
Sharing many a nostalgic moment of our trips to France over those few blissful hours, we emerge jovial, satisfied and content from our lazy Saturday lunch in the heart of Burgundy.
Gaston is a perfect Saturday lunch destination for those moments were you want to indulge in fine food, fine wine and fine service but not go over the top crazy a la the classic Champagne brunch style.
Gaston Burgundy Bistro & Wine Bar offers a delicious Saturday Lunch option which includes a selection of Fine de Claires No 3 La Fine Saint Kerber. Slurp up six Oysters and a bottle of Chablis 1er Cru at SG$138 or 12 Oysters plus a bottle of Champagne Blanc de Blancs SG$188.
For the heartier appetite order up the Rumpsteak Angus Slow cooked Angus beef rump with crème fraîche, mustard dressing and fries SG$108. Bookings are required. Kitchen closes at 2pm but restaurant stays open all day for drinks, cold cuts and desserts.
With dishes crafted with the utmost respect for tradition, enjoy the freshest, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from artisanal producers at Gaston. Champagne Perrier-Jouët Blanc de Blancs is also available at SG$148 a Bottle and One for One Pint Lager Trouble Brewing (12PM-6PM)
A meal isn’t really fulfilled without a glass of wine - look forward to an extensive selection of quality, great value wines of close to 350 labels from France and beyond.
Jeffrey the owner operator is a champion explaining the dishes as you tuck into delicious bistro style fare that you would expect being delivered direct to table from a kitchen smack in the middle of Burgundy - France.
Visit Gaston Burgundy Bistro & Wine Bar
a. 25 Keong Saik Road Singapore, Singapore 089132
s. www.facebook.com/gastonsingapore
t. +65 6909 8120