A theatrical dining experience that delivers on both spectacle and substance
Singapore's dining scene continues to evolve at breakneck speed, and the latest addition to make waves is One Prawn, nestled in the increasingly trendy New Bahru estate. This isn't just another restaurant opening – it's a carefully orchestrated culinary theatre that manages to be both Instagram-worthy and genuinely delicious, a combination that's surprisingly rare in our oversaturated F&B landscape.
The moment you step inside, you're drawn to the open kitchen's mesmerising dance. Watching the chefs work their magic over crackling wood fires feels almost primal – there's something deeply satisfying about seeing your meal prepared with such elemental honesty. But it's not just about the flames; One Prawn's commitment to dry-aging extends beyond the expected beef to include fish, a technique that elevates umami to extraordinary heights.
The bar program deserves equal billing, with inventive cocktails that complement rather than compete with the food. Each drink feels thoughtfully crafted, incorporating Asian elements that echo the kitchen's philosophy without falling into tired fusion clichés.
However, it's the eight-course set menu at $100++ per person that truly sets One Prawn apart. In an era where tasting menus regularly breach the $200 mark, this pricing represents exceptional value – particularly when you consider the quality and artistry on display.
The journey begins with Ostra Regal oysters enhanced with lime, offering diners the choice between fresh and grilled preparations. Both are exquisite, but the grilled version adds a subtle smokiness that hints at the wood-fired mastery to come. The ankimo mousse with pink peppercorns follows, a study in contrasts that balances richness with aromatic heat.
The prawn toast with aioli proved to be an early highlight – a dish so perfectly executed it redefines your expectations of this familiar favourite. The okra with togarashi and bonito dressing continues the Asian influence with confident seasoning that never overwhelms the vegetables' natural sweetness.
Two standout courses elevated the meal to memorable territory. The octopus paired with assam pedas hummus and renkon chips showcases the kitchen's ability to marry Southeast Asian boldness with refined technique. But it's the 16-day dry-aged kingfish loin with green goddess that truly dazzles – the fish's concentrated flavours and silk-like texture represent dry-aging at its finest.
The jumbo tiger prawns with sakura, vermouth,= and burnt leek oil deserve special mention as one of the most visually stunning prawn dishes I've encountered. The delicate floral notes of sakura create an unexpectedly harmonious backdrop for the prawns' natural sweetness.
Even dessert maintains the innovative spirit with a burnt toast ice cream sandwich featuring banana crumbs and mint – playful yet sophisticated, much like the restaurant itself.
One Prawn succeeds where many ambitious openings falter by maintaining focus. Every element, from the theatrical open kitchen to the thoughtfully curated wine list, serves the greater goal of creating a cohesive dining experience. The Asian influences feel organic rather than forced, and the pricing remains accessible without compromising on quality.
New Bahru has found its culinary anchor in One Prawn – a restaurant that understands spectacle means nothing without substance to back it up.
a. 46 Kim Yam Rd, #01-10, Singapore 239351
fb. www.facebook.com/oneprawnnco
Did You Know?
New Bahru is fast becoming Singapore’s hottest dining enclave, and One Prawn is among the standout names shaping its reputation. With bold seafood creations, wood-fired mastery, and a $100 tasting menu that has food lovers talking, the restaurant is redefining modern Asian dining in the city. Discover more about One Prawn’s rise and its role in New Bahru’s culinary boom here
