Located along the banks of the serene Singapore River, this refined Australian restaurant takes residence at a charming 1920s restored warehouse that features a warmly lit cozy dining area within, and a modest alfresco space on the outside, with green vines curling themselves along its exterior walls, awarding this restaurant a tranquil garden ambience.

The indoor dining space bears a striking resemblance to a polished Ikea showroom, with its lacquered parquet wood flooring and white bookshelves showcasing rows of wine and other knick-knacks, and simple oil paintings that accessorize the white walls within. Although it is small in size, the tables are generously spaced to allow sufficient privacy to ensure pleasant dining experiences for all their patrons. The food selection offered at Rivercafé is more about quality than quantity, as can be testified by many of their loyal guests. Inspired by the changing Australian seasons, their menu is far from being static; their evolving brunch menu and dish creations will keep diners constantly intrigued.

• Entrees
  Serving an adequate array of entrees, soups and salads, the reasonable prices will also not intimidate. I was served the Salmon Tuna Carpacio in Verjuice Vinaigrette ($16) that was spiced with zucchini and topped off with some tangy salmon roe. This was an excellent start to the meal, offering a smorgasbord of tastes which was light and refreshing at the same time. Another sumptuous appetizer that is a must try is the Garlic Butter Squid Ring ($14) garnished with chopped asparagus spears and roasted cherry tomatoes. The strong aromas extracted from the garlic butter, combined with the lightly grilled squid was truly addictive!

• Mains
  Although the entrees were good, the main courses served were less impressive. I went with their recommendations and tried the Australian beef tenderloin ($25) that was prepared medium rare, with melted blue cheese that was melded into the meat beneath and served on a bed of pecan paste and carbenet glaze; and the Middle Eastern Spatchcock with minted yoghurt and cumin falafel ($23), which was accompanied with red onions and a serving of rocket salad.

  Although the beef was still pink on the inside, I was surprised at the rough texture of the meat that was difficult to cut through as well as consume. However, I do appreciate the addition of the pecan crust to this meal as it differs from the usual. Also, those who are looking for something out of the ordinary should definitely give the middle-eastern spatchcock a try. Tasting like something right out of Turkey , this mint-flavoured dish was a surprisingly touch to the conventionally Australian Rivercafé menu.

• Desserts and Drinks
  We closed our meal with two of Rivercafé’s most outstanding desserts; the Flaming Angel Cake Bomb Alaska and Wild Berries ($14) and the Chocolate Mud cake and Raspberry Sorbet and Brandy Cherry ($14).

  As suggested by its name, the flaming angel cake was drizzled with alcohol and then served with it being lit on fire. Although the flames only lasted for approximately 5 seconds, it sure rates high on the novelty scale. In addition, I was very much amused by the fact that it resembled Singapore ’s arts icon, the Esplanade Centre!

  My favourite dish of this restaurant has got to be their richly flavoured and incredibly smooth chocolate mud cake that is one of the best mud cakes I have tasted thus far. The raspberry sorbet resting on a bed of almond flakes served as an accompaniment to this luxurious mud cake further added a tangy twist to the combination.

The SD Food Advisor’s take on Rivercafé
Having had rave reviews from countless publications like Harper’s Bazaar, Business Times and Sunday Times, Rivercafé remains surprisingly humble and unpretentious. I went to dine with high expectations, and have to say that although I was mildly disappointed with the main courses, the other delectable dishes plus its excellent service more than made up for it. On the whole, I had an enjoyable meal at Rivercafé and will recommend this restaurant for anyone who is looking for a well-rounded dining experience that has an alluring ambience and is able to serve up considerable culinary standards coupled with a superb service.