When we heard that Austrian culinary maestro Stephan Zoisl was reimagining his beloved Chef's Table concept, we couldn't resist booking a table at the newly minted Chef's Tavern on Craig Road. What we discovered was nothing short of revelatory – a dining experience that marries the precision and artistry of Michelin-starred cuisine with refreshingly accessible pricing.
For those who mourned the closure of the original Chef's Table, Chef's Tavern emerges as a phoenix from those ashes, offering the same exceptional standards we fell in love with, but in a more relaxed, approachable format. Zoisl's genius lies in his seamless fusion of European technique with Japanese sensibilities, creating dishes that feel both familiar and utterly unique.
The lunch service showcases this philosophy beautifully through their special Omakase offerings. We began with a trio of starters that immediately signalled we were in for something special. The Anchovy Puff Pastry arrived as a masterclass in balance—flaky pastry cradling creamy ricotta, punctuated by the brine of gordal olives and the gentle heat of horseradish, all brightened with fresh chives and lemon zest. At under $20, it's the kind of dish you'd expect to pay double for elsewhere.
The Hamachi Sashimi demonstrated Zoisl's innovative approach to ingredients. Grapes compressed in Kracher Auslese wine provided an unexpected sweetness that played beautifully against the buttery fish, while shiso added an herbaceous note and verjus brought welcome acidity. Meanwhile, the Hokkaido Scallop Crudo transported us straight to Peru by way of Japan, with its vibrant mango leche de tigre, pop of trout roe, and aromatic sawtooth coriander oil.
The mains continued this East-meets-West narrative with stunning results. The Prawn & Lobster Bisque Ramen exemplifies fusion done right—rich European bisque techniques applied to Japanese ramen, elevated with premium Argentinian prawns and a perfectly jammy ajitsuke egg. Our personal favourite, however, was the Cold Kombu Angel Hair Pasta, where Italian technique meets Japanese umami and Thai aromatics in the form of tom kha coconut, creating something entirely new yet inherently satisfying.
Zoisl hasn't forgotten his Austrian roots either. The Schnitzel 'Wiener Art' pays homage to his heritage while adding contemporary touches—the breaded pork loin remains traditional, but the accompaniment of cranberries, butterheadlettuce, and anchovy butter elevates it beyond nostalgia. The Maple Leaf Duck Breast proved equally impressive, its perfectly rendered skin giving way to rosy meat, complemented by sweet caramelised onions and the bitter char of leeks.
For those seeking value without compromise, the lunch bento sets at $28++ represent extraordinary worth. Whether you choose Japanese or European style, you receive a complete meal—protein, vegetables, soup, salad, rice or bread, and fruit—all artfully arranged on an impressive tray that makes lunch feel like an occasion.
Desserts showcase Zoisl's pastry prowess with playful sophistication. The Piña Colada Pineapple Sorbet transforms a beach cocktail into refined refreshment, while the Dark Chocolate Gateau with yuzu sorbet demonstrates his ability to balance rich indulgence with bright acidity.
Chef's Tavern succeeds brilliantly in democratising fine dining without sacrificing quality or creativity. It's proof that exceptional food needn't come with exceptional price tags, making it an essential addition to Singapore's dining landscape.
a. 20 Craig Rd, Singapore 089692
fb. www.facebook.com/chefstavernsg
Did You Know?
Looking to continue your culinary journey beyond the plate? Don’t miss Hopscotch’s bold 10-year anniversary cocktail menu. The homegrown brand’s milestone celebration brings together innovative mixology and nostalgic local flavours at its Gillman Barracks location. Think kaya-infused cocktails, roasted peanut washes, and elegant reinterpretations of childhood snacks in liquid form. With its vibrant vibe and curated drink list, Hopscotch is the go-to destination for Singapore’s cocktail connoisseurs and expats alike. It’s the perfect post-dinner spot if you’ve just dined at Chef’s Tavern and are in the mood to toast to great taste and creative flair.
