Cafes across Singapore participated in the “Host a Dilmah Real High Tea” Challenge last week (20 June to 28 June 2015). Each cafe thoughtfully paired the Dilmah Exceptional premium tea series with their signature desserts. The Bark Cafe was one of nine participating cafes in Singapore and I had the chance to drop by to sample what they offered.

Prior to the high tea tastings, I tried some sides and main dishes because I was pretty starved after ending work. It was a weekday night so thankfully, parking lots were readily available upon arrival as it wasn’t too crowded. I appreciate a quiet hideout after work so I loved the place immediately upon arrival. Set in an alfresco dining setting, one can enjoy the natural breeze while having their meal (no worries if it gets a little warm, the ceiling fans were pretty cooling).

I would usually go for some truffle fries, but the Sweet Potato Sticks with parmesan mayonaise (S$13.90) caught my eye on the menu as it is something not as commonly found in cafes or restaurants.  The staff kindly informed me that the actual product will differ from the menu picture; it is slightly thicker and of a thicker texture, but hey, I think food is mainly about the taste. Not disappointed after trying it, the sweet potato fries were fried to a good texture and crispiness. It wasn’t as oily compared to other sweet potato fries that I have tried, so that was a plus point.

I tried the Seasonal Wedges with nachos cheese dip (S$9.90) because the cheese dip sounded good. Anything with nachos cheese dip would taste good, no? Anyway, I thought the wedges were fried to perfection, crispy on the outside and warm on the inside. I have had tasteless wedges before so these were pretty good – good finger food for sharing if you are heading down to chill with your friends.

The Bark Cafe Famous Chicken Wings come in two options – three pieces for S$8.90 and six pieces for S$15.90. I had to try this dish because I love chicken wings and it is a signature dish in the cafe. I really loved the flavour and I think I discovered the secret to their delicious chicken wings. There was a hint of prawn paste in the chicken and maybe some other secret ingredient; I really loved it! The meat wasn’t too tough despite it being deep fried.

For the mains, I originally wanted to try the pork ribs but decided on the Smokey Pepper Duck ($18.90) instead. The staff mentioned it was a good choice and I was pretty impressed with the strong flavour of the duck. Either it was marinated well beforehand or it was just cooked with the right heat and method.

The black pepper taste wasn’t too strong so people who are unable to take spicy or peppery food might actually like this. I like my salads without creamy dressings so I’m not loving the one here, but the main dish definitely did not disappoint. It is a must-try in this cafe.

The main reason why I visited The Bark Cafe was because of the Dilmah Tea Sets, each priced at S$17.90++ per set. Each set came with a club sandwich, a slice of cake and a cup of tea to your preference.

I really love this outdoor fusion dining experience. For those we don’t know, aside from western food, local delicacies such as crayfish hor fun is also available at the cafe.

The cafe is set in a cosy and comfortable environment, surrounded by lush greenery exuding a natural peaceful vibe. I will definitely return to this cafe/bistro with other friends, introducing them to the good food and drinks available. Impeccable service, friendly staff, quiet hideout from the city, satisfying delicacies – what’s there not to love about this place.

The Bark Cafe
1000 Upper Changi Road North
Singapore 507707
Tel: +65 6545 4118
Email: [email protected]

Opening hours: Mon – Thu 11 am to 1 am; Fri – Sat 11 am to 2 am; Sun 11 am to 1 am

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GIVEAWAY 

We are giving away 10 sets of a Dilmah Riihena Fine Porcelain Tea Set, Dilmah Tea-Inspired Cuisine and Beverage book and Hidden Kitchens of Sri Lanka book (worth a total of S$150 each set).

To win, simply do the following:

• ‘Like’ the Asia 361 Facebook page and/or Alvinology Facebook page, or follow the Asia 361 Instagram account @Asia361Official.
• ‘Like’ the Dilmah Tea Gastronomy Facebook page.
• Share this post on Facebook and tag up to three friends in your post.

The winners notified via Facebook, Instagram or email, and must be able to collect the prizes in person in Singapore. Contest ends 19 July 2015.