Affordable Wines and Bold Plates: Why Viva Lavender is Worth Discovering

Nestled in the vibrant Lavender district, Viva Lavender is positioning itself as more than just another new restaurant — it’s a place where modern European techniques and Asian influences come together in unexpected, flavour-packed ways. Helmed by Head Chef Colin Peh (previously of Tapas Club and Kulto), alongside Sous Chefs Danny and Andy, the team presents a dinner menu that balances precision and comfort, boldness and subtlety. 

With a wine list curated to be both thoughtful and accessible, the restaurant has its sights set on becoming a neighbourhood staple for both casual dining and celebratory evenings.

The opening plates at Viva Lavender leaned more towards comfort than punchy introductions. The Beetroot Salad ($18) combined earthy roasted beetroots and sweet butternut squash with the crunch of walnuts and the salty tang of feta. It was wholesome and well-balanced in flavour, though it lacked the refreshing lift that might have made it more memorable — perhaps a touch of acidity, like balsamic-pickled beetroot, could have brought more vibrancy.

The Charred Cabbage with Herb Yoghurt and Crumble ($16) offered something more distinctive. The smoky char on the cabbage gave depth, while the tangy yoghurt added brightness. A drizzle of house-made chilli oil introduced an Asian edge, though it tipped slightly towards the oily side.

Meanwhile, the Tuna Tostada ($13) was a clear standout among the starters. The soy-marinated tuna was fresh and clean, paired with creamy guacamole on a crisp tortilla shell. Each bite balanced umami, creaminess, and crunch — a neat showcase of the kitchen’s playful fusion style.

The Garlic Prawns ($20) arrived in garlic-chilli oil, with tiger prawns that were impressively plump and juicy. While they delivered on size and succulence, they lacked the firm, snappy bite that would have elevated the texture. The garlic oil, too, could have carried a stronger aromatic punch to live up to its promise.

The Miso Black Cod ($45), however, was a memorable dish. Fatty and tender, the cod melted on the tongue, enriched by a creamy tobiko beurre blanc. The beurre blanc itself — luxurious and buttery — was given surprising bursts of briny savouriness from the tobiko, while a lightly blanched broccolini on the side helped balance the richness.

The Scallop and Saffron Risotto ($38) was another dish that impressed. The risotto was cooked al dente, each grain retaining a pleasant bite rather than turning mushy, showing good control in execution. The seared scallops that crowned the dish were plump and succulent, their natural sweetness pairing beautifully with the delicate perfume of saffron that ran through the rice. 

Meat lovers like myself will appreciate the Australian Wagyu Flank (260g) ($45). Though a secondary cut, the flank boasted gorgeous marbling, surprising tenderness, and a flavourful sear. Finished with sea salt flakes and paired with garlicky, herb-forward chimichurri, it was a dish that showcased both restraint and boldness in equal measure.

For sharing, the Dry-Aged French Lemon Sole ($68) introduced a unique fusion: a gochujang beurre blanc that combined the chilli paste’s fermented heat and subtle sweetness with the buttery French classic. The addition of fried capers brought acidity and crunch, keeping the dish from veering into heaviness. It was an adventurous pairing that worked surprisingly well.

Desserts at Viva Lavender strike a balance between tradition and innovation. The Burnt Manchego Cheesecake ($13) stood out for its clever savoury-sweet interplay, with blue cheese adding just the right touch of funk to the creamy filling. The base was a classic combination of digestive biscuits and butter, unfussy yet effective, letting the richness of the cheesecake shine. A side of mixed berry gelato added brightness and a refreshing counterpoint.

The Lava Cake ($12) delivered exactly what it promised: a decadent, molten-centred chocolate indulgence. Meanwhile, the Crema Catalana ($12) brought Spanish flair with its custard-like texture, topped with passionfruit sorbet and lemon syrup. 

Viva Lavender is carving out its space in the neighbourhood with a menu that dares to take risks, marrying European refinement with Asian boldness. The restaurant succeeds in creating memorable flavours and delivering strong value — especially with its extensive yet affordable wine list. Whether for a casual weekday dinner, a long-overdue catch-up with friends, or a celebration, Viva Lavender offers an experience worth exploring.

Viva Lavender
161 Lavender Street
#01-02/03/04
Singapore 338750

Opening hours: Mon to Thu — 11am to 10pm; Fri — 11am to 10.30pm; Saturday — 9am to 10.30pm; Sunday — 9am to 10pm