Following the success of its outlet at Chomp Chomp in Serangoon Gardens, Friends at Jelita along Holland Road embraces a similar concept of serving fine European cuisine in a semi-formal setting. Embarking on a mission to bring his patrons on a epicurious journey of delectable European cuisine, owner Mr Thomas Chiam and his kitchen crew constantly dishes up new culinary delights with the freshest ingredients. For the convenience of patrons, Friends also provides free parking in the vicinity for its diners after office hours.

• The Vibe
  The décor is modern contemporary yet minimalist, relying on clean lines and a neutral mix of greys and browns. The cushioned chairs and sofas with high neck-rests were specially custom-made for comfort, ensuring a pleasurable dining experience with a touch of class and elegance. A see-through classic brown drape is used to separate a certain section of the restaurant from the main dining hall, functioning as a private room for a business luncheon or private party.

• The Food
  The restaurant boasts a menu of new items previously not found at its Chomp Chomp outlet. Perk yourself up with the Salad of Mesclun, Walnuts, Blue cheese, Pear & Asparagus, Shallot herbs Vinaigrette ($15.90). The cripsy leafy greens drizzled with the refreshing in-house salad dressing which accentuated the taste, literally bursting with flavours, was a inviting appetiser to begin with. The pear and blue cheese added a twist to the salad, giving it a bittersweet yet salty hint, while the walnut balanced it out with a crunchy texture. Seafood lovers can look forward to the house specialty would be the Seasonal Oysters served either fresh or baked. A firm believer of offering only the best in freshness to his patrons, Thomas imports different kinds of oysters from over the world, depending on their season. The large Baked Oysters were served with the egg-yolk atop and stuffed with spinach fillings to retain the lusciousness of the oyster within, hence keeping its flavour sealed within the oyster. One bite and one could taste the freshness oozing out from within, such an indulgence to the senses!

  A unique dish to endeavour will be the Roasted Rock Garoupa on Warm Nicoise Garlic Anchovy Butter Sauce ($27.90). Roasted to perfection with its skin crispy but firm and succulent within, the Garoupa was a winsome dish, refined and gratifying. This would definitely be a welcoming treat for diners who are so used to having steamed Garoupa in chinese restuarants or Dory/snapper fillet in western restaurants. Meat-lovers should attempt the Australian Lamb Rack ($35.90) which was tender and juicy, without the strong flavour or smell associated with a usual serving of lamb dish. The au jus sauce complemented the lamb rack impeccably with its light texture, and hence was not too overpowering. Diners could savour the full flavour of the marinated lamb rack and finish off the dish without feeling too overwhelmed and yet, still have reservations for desserts; not forgetting the Warm Varholna Chocolate Cake Served With Passion fruit Sorbet. Freshly prepared only upon order, the warm chocolate cake will enthrall diners with its molten French Varholna chocolate oozing out and its rich dark chocolate aroma captivating any chocolate connoisseur in the know. The Passionfruit sorbet served as an accompaniment to balance off with a tinge of sourness to an otherwise, bittersweet cocoa affair. Set lunches and set dinners are available on a daily basis for those who prefer to have a variety of dishes in smaller portions.

• The Service
  Decked in a smart black attire, the staff appeared neat and professional. Staying true to its mission to provide its patrons with a pleasurable gastronomic experience, service staff has been educated on the importance of making each dining experience a delightful one.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Friends @ Jelita
Having taken great pride in the quality and presentation of the food served, one can be assured of a delightful epicurean experience at Friends. Coupling wine with gourmet food, Friends offers its patrons the option to purchase the wine they have tasted at its premise. The prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity served. Be it for special occasions to celebrate in the restaurant or catering to other premise, Friends has it set to meet your needs for that one special timeless moment in your life. The health-conscious will be elated to note that Friends is also the only restaurant in Singapore that is Cohen-certified. Diners under the Cohen weight-loss program can bring their prescription to the restaurant, where the chef will prepare a customized meal accordingly. One can't help but conclude that Friends has it all set to go with you on the extra mile.

Contest Questions

 
FRIENDS Restaurant has 2 outlets in Singapore. Name both