Singapore-born Malaysian celebrity chef Redzuawan, or fondly known as Chef Wan, has opened a new ala-carte venture at the Singapore arts hub Esplanade. His latest restaurant known as Chef Wan’s Kitchen offers a menu bursting with Peranakan, Morrocan, Javanese and Spanish flavours.
The venue itself is an airy space with tasteful decor and floor to ceiling windows (almost) looking out to the Esplanade outdoor performing theatre. For Muslim families who previously found little food choices at the Esplanade for a family meal, Chef Wan’s Kitchen opens up a delectable option.
The food items available at Chef Wan’s Kitchen are the result of not only the eponymous owner’s experience but also those of his mother and grandmother. Here are the top five picks from the expansive menu which would be worth both your palette and wallet!
Chef Wan’s Oxtail Soup
Served to and praised by royalty such as the Brunei Sultan, this soup (S$17.90) is definitely a treat for the tastebuds. Simmered and boiled for many hours with a medley of spices, the result is a flavourful broth that is rich in fats and yet light to sip. The meat itself is tender and packs a unique flavour.
Chef Wan’s Oxtail Soup ($17.90). Photo: Chef Wan’s Kitchen.
Lawar
A must-have staple in any traditional Balinese feast, the Lawar Salad (S$17.90) is made with a potpourri of ingredients, namely garlic, chillies, lime, palm sugar, coconut, turmeric and black pepper. The ingredients come together to give a refreshing tilt, whilst the jackfruit adds a beautiful touch.
Lawar ($17.90). Photo: Chef Wan’s Kitchen.
Moroccan Harira Lamb Meatball Soup
Somewhat a departure from the primarily Javanese offerings on the menu, the Moroccan Harira Lamb Meatball Soup (S$17.90) is a must-try. Chef Wan learned to cook this dish during his travels in Morocco. The meatball soup is served with four large juicy and tender meatballs perfect for sharing. The hours of stewing result in the meat soaking up the goodness of the ingredients, such as chickpeas and coriander.
Moroccan Harira Lamb Meatball Soup ($17.90). Photo: Chef Wan’s Kitchen.
Ayam Percik
In this dish (S$18.90), roasted chicken is bathed in a spicy sauce. Chef Wan’s rendition of this simple classic dish is a hearty choice which you must try.
Ayam Percik (S$18.90). Photo: Chef Wan’s Kitchen.
Chef Wan’s Selangor Beef Rendang
The best dish has been left to the last, for it leaves a lasting memory. Sweet, spicy, and all things nice, the Selangor Beef Rendang (S$22.90) boasts a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Be warned — try this and you may not be able to find another rendang that quite matches up thereafter.
Selangor Beef Rendang. Photo: Chef Wan’s Kitchen
Editor’s note: At the time of publishing, the Halal certificate has been applied for by the restaurant and is pending approval. The process takes approximately three months. The author was assured all ingredients and cooking methods are halal.
Chef Wan’s Kitchen
8 Raffles Avenue, #02-14,
Esplanade Mall
Singapore 039802
Tel: +65 6397 4911
Email: [email protected]
Opening hours: 12pm to 2.30pm, 5.30pm to 10.30pm daily
