Strangers’ Reunion is probably one of ‘pioneer’ hipster cafes in Singapore.
After they announced their “Come bid goodbye… We will be closed… till further notice,” some fans were obviously upset with their ‘closure’.
Emmmm, they are back in 3 weeks with a new look. O…kay. Lesson learnt: Don’t play with our feelings lah.
Some background of Strangers’ Reunion: It is home of the current World Siphon Coffee Champion, 3-time Singapore Barista Champion, 3-time Singapore Latte Art Champion & ASEAN Barista Champion 2013 Ryan Tan.
Many other popular baristas who went on to open cafes (successful ones) actually had their beginnings at Strangers’.
I thought that this revamp was much needed, and on-point. Though it looked vaguely similar to I sister café Curious Palette at Prinsep Street.
And I will be honest to admit, I didn’t like Strangers’ Reunion that much in the past – possibly pretentious vibes and certain food offerings, but they have probably improved in those aspects.
They might have borrowed ideas here and there. I could see similarities in menu items, presentation and execution to cafes in Sydney and Melbourne, but at least there was attention to details.
How water bottles were labelled and packaged, ‘uniforms’ the staff were having, the choice of music… all these played a part in the entire café-immersion experience.
Taking about staff, some of the servers were attentive (good), one walked with swag in rhythm to the music, another had the ‘how’s-it-going’ expression.
(Photo credit: Nicholas Tan @stormcape)
There are a few new additions to their menu, such as Aburi Mentaiko Spghetti ($21.90), Pumpkin Saffron Risotto ($18.50), and Pesto Chicken Tagliatelle ($17.90). We liked the pink-looking Mentaiko Pasta ($21.90) – creamy, al dente, generous servings.
FYI, every other table seemed to be having (and photographing) the Crabcake Reunion ($18.90) but I was in the mood of Spicy Baked eggs ($15.50, $3 more for Italian Sausage topup). One of the more tasty and interesting versions I have eaten of late, with a twang of curry.
People go to Strangers’ Reunion to eat their buttermilk waffles.
I was kind of indifferent to their version. Had the Matcha and Azuki Beans ($12.90), and it was crispy with a crunch. If the inner portion could have been fluffier, this would be a winner.
To appeal to the health-conscious, there is also an introduction to ‘superfoods’ desserts – Coconut Chia Pudding ($11.90), Acai Smoothie Bowl ($11.90) and Avocado Smoothie Bowl ($11.90).
I liked the Acai Smoothie Bowl best, but it would have a thicker consistency (ie not so watery). The Coconut Chia Pudding on the reverse, was dense and clumpy, but I believe they are working towards a better version.
So Strangers’ Reunion. Welcome back (kind of). Glad to know you are better.
Strangers’ Reunion
33/35/37 Kampong Bahru Road Singapore 169354
Tel: +65 6222 4869
Opening Hours: 9am – 10pm (Mon, Wed, Thurs, Sun), 9am – 12am (Fri, Sat), Closed Tues
Other Related Entries
Curious Palette (Prinsep Street).
Ninja Bowl (Duxton Road)
Alchemist (Tanjong Pagar)
Chong Wen Ge (Telok Ayer)
L’ÉCLAIR by Sarah Michelle (Clemenceau Avenue)
* Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated. Disclosure: The Acai Smoothie Bowl was on the house.
The post Strangers’ Reunion – Reopens, Back Better And More Hipster appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.