The idea of France is just so romantic! It fascinates me and inspires me to live my life with more passion and zest. So, obviously, when my editor invited me to an exclusive tasting at one of Singapore’s most exquisite French bistros, I had to go. So France is everything you want a French restaurant to be and more!
I got the chance to enjoy dinner at their recently-launched establishment on Claymore Road, located just a couple of minutes’ walk from Orchard MRT Station and tucked next to the iconic Orchard Road shopping strip. This is So France’s Second outlet with the first venue located at DUO Galleria. So France Claymore offers a refreshed menu with a modern interpretation of some of the most decadent Gallic recipes in a relaxed and chic environment.
Every bit a French bistro with modern design finishes and striking pop art, the main dining hall is vibrant, elegant and inviting. Relaxed banquette seating, cosy corner tables and an alfresco terrace that gives diners a myriad of seating options and injects just the right je ne sais quoi quality for lunch catch-ups, romantic dinner out, or food and drinks with friends after work.
A Dinner That’ll Stay With You
We were an intimate group of five and dinner at So France was a celebration. The extensive menu took us on a culinary history that includes rustic French dishes, and timeless regional classic recipes with robust flavours served with an elegant contemporary touch.
Our specially-curated menu for the night included Salmon Tartare, Beetroot Tartare, Beef Tartare, Garlic Butter Escargot, Homemade Pate, Foie Gras Terrine, Pan-Seared Foie Gras, Chilean Sea bass, Duck Confit, Duck à l’orange, Braised Lamb Shank, Scallops and Beef Bourguignon. And, of course, our meal was paired with a chef-curated range of champagne and white as well as red wines. Every single dish was like a French culinary celebration in my mouth but if I had to pick winners, I’d say I fell in love with the Braised Lamb Shank, Garlic Butter Escargot, Chilean Sea bass and Duck Confit. By the end of the dinner, I was so full; I don’t remember the last meal I had that was this hearty and delicious.
Vegans And Vegetarians Are Welcome Too!
Ditching the traditional French fare, So France welcomes vegans and vegetarians as well. The kitchen has injected a creative flair to craft a colourful, fresh, and delicious selection for both vegetarians and vegans. Green Asparagus Salad ($22) Tendril with peas or the Mediterranean Salad ($18) served with hummus, grilled aubergine, peppers, and artichokes are lovely starters.
While, the roasted Beetroot Tartare ($20-28), textured vivid purple and red colours are layered with fresh hazelnuts is a must together with Zucchini Gratin ($24), the oven-baked ratatouille with layers of zucchini. I can vouch for the Beetroot Tartare- it is probably the most delicious beetroot recipe I have ever tasted!
Added Bonus: Shop All-Things France At Their Retail Outlet
One-of-its-kind, So France has a dedicated grocer with a 100% French assortment of delicacies, wines, cheeses, and confectionary and premium gift hampers for the perfect soiree.
Step into the wine room and shoppers will discover a myriad of wines from the most prestigious, innovative, and seductive French wine-makers. Browse the shelves and you’ll find a wonderful selection of classic bottles from Bordeaux, Burgundy, Loire Valley, Champagne, and the largest to the smallest wine-producing region of France. Shoppers have a choice of biodynamic and natural wines to fortified and absolute classics. Price ranges from $40 to premium $2,100 – showcasing the comprehensive choices for wine lovers.
The cheese selection remains a favourite amongst shoppers with up to 50 varieties to indulge in. The provenance of each cheese is critical and the team sources only from independent, boutique fromagers to complete the well-chosen selection. Comté, matured for 40 months to develop a rich and complex flavour, is a semi-hard cheese while Cremeux Truffle de Bourgogne, the subtly sweet with earthy tones of truffle pairs beautifully with the delicate creaminess of triple cream cheese, gives just a glimpse of the extensive selection.
With three to four shipments scheduled annually, shoppers get seasonal treats together with everyday classics. From Pommery in distinct flavours to premium butter selection (Bordier, Janier), duck confit, Foie gras and sardines. Add on a fresh crusty baguette, or freshly baked quiche and pastries to complete the perfect dinner party.
This Weekend, Go Visit France In Singapore
I highly recommend this amazing bistro to anyone and everyone looking for an amazing French night with family, friends and loved ones. In fact, why not consider planning a visit this weekend?
They have an amazing dedicated weekend brunch menu that includes thin and as delicate as chantilly lace, light and addictive sweet and savoury crêpes. The menu also offers La Complète (cooked ham, Emmental, egg), La Poulette (Béchamel, chicken, Emmental, mushroom), or the La Norvégienne (Smoked salmon, spinach, crème Fraiche) as well as La Sucrée (sugar with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice) and sinful La Caramel (homemade salted butter caramel sauce).
THE LIFESTYLE COLLECTIVE 