HYPE
The simple, tranquil and rustic charms of rurality have long been forgotten; skyscrapers and posh restaurants now dot the streets of our tiny island. Amber Chan & Isaac Tan bring you 2 places in Singapore that are quietly tucked away from the flurry of our cityscape. Perfect for chomping away and romantic dates.
Sunset Grill and Pub
Hidden within the East Camp in Seletar Airbase, sitting quietly beside a fenced up airstrip is Sunset Grill and Pub, also home to magnificent sunsets. With its humble decor and mismatched furniture, this is one place for lovers to go on an unpretentious date. Off the beaten track, this restaurant has none of the snooty vibes most fancy restaurants ooze; the food and setting actually feel like part of home. Be sure to arrive around 6pm to catch the sunset in time.
Appetite
1. Spicy Buffalo Wings ($17.50 for 6 pieces)
Start your meal with the spicy buffalo wings that Sunset Grill and Pub is famous for. There are 10 levels of spiciness to choose from. The first level of wings looked and smelt absolutely lethal. They were greasy mounds of crispy redness that seemed to glow. Don’t mind their appearance, for they will get you hooked. Juicy, flavourful and pretty spicy, the heat builds up with each bite you take. Add $0.50 for each subsequent level up.
There’s even a mystery level 30 for gutsy diners where, if reached, they get to sign their names on certificates to prove they’ve tried the spiciest wings. These certificates are pasted on the ‘Hall of Flame’ wall inside the restaurant. Remember, though, that potential side effects include severe stomachaches, swollen lips and fainting spells. You have been warned.
2. Blt Sanwich ($11.50) Imagine long, juicy strips of bacon tucked between fresh lettuce and salty melted cheese. This divine combination is then sandwiched between three slices of fresh, perfectly-toasted bread. Served with a side of fries and salad sprinkled with pepper, the BLT sandwich is worth every cent.
3. Beef Lagsane ($17.50)
The serving is too big for one so you can share it with your date. The layer of cheese covering the pasta is crisp on top, thick and gooey underneath, and leaves stringy strands when eaten. The pasta and beef are average at best, but its fresh and flavourful cheese sets it apart from other lasagne.
Address: 140B Piccadilly, Seletar Air Base East Camp, Singapore Flying Club
Opening Hours: Open from 4pm – late, closed on Tuesdays.
Sunrays nestle gently against the cradling waves as you take time to revel in the astounding beauty of your surroundings and your date. Enjoy great food in the luxurious comforts of the elegantly designed Privé Bakery Café with amazing scenery that is just too good to be true.
The journey to Privé starts your date on a crescendo. A nice stroll along Keppel Bay Drive reveals the beauty of the Marina at the end of the road.
Every step along the colossal Keppel Bay Bridge transports you further away from the bustling concrete jungle to a relaxing postcard-worthy backdrop. Take time to soak up the sun, drink in the salty sea breeze and soon you’ll forget all that’s unimportant in life and focus on the star of the night – your lovely date.
And as the night beckons, Privé starts to come alive. The beautiful tealight-lit atmosphere sets the mood for good dinner conversation. With great food, comfortable seating and one of the best views in Singapore, who could really ask for more?
Appetite
1. The N.Y Burger ($32.00)
The succulent taste of 200g of Wagyu beef lightens up your taste buds. As the food is served, you can’t help but appreciate the aroma of freshly baked bread. After all, Privé Bakery Café is a bakery. The portion is decent and the burger buns are soft and sweet on their own. Along with the tangy tomato relish, Wagyu beef and cheddar cheese, the dish is immensely satisfying.
2. Slipper Lobster Linguine ($25.00)
If you’re up for seafood, this’ll be a good pick. The lobster meat is fresh, the meat holds together and is nowhere near flaky. Chunks of lobster can be found in proportion to the pasta as well. Also, the light tomato base does not overpower the lobster meat nor leave you feeling too full. That said, the fishy smell of the crustacean may not be liked by some.
3. Tiramisu ($7.00)
Although small in serving, the cup of tiramisu sure packs a punch. After the first few tastes, the warmth of the coffee liquor creates a fuzzy feeling in your throat and soothes you into a languid, relaxed state without making you foolishly drunk by the end of the night. The soft but rich texture of the mascarpone layer, the delectable sponge cake and the intensity of the coffee liquor in the small glass makes this sweet treat sinfully luscious. 
4. Peanut Butter and Jelly Milkshake ($11.00)
Probably one of the best items on the menu, the clever transformation of the sandwich into a milkshake (without the bread, of course) is pleasantly appetising. The sweet and savoury peanut butter does not overpower, while the jelly remains sweet. We suggest taking a large sip and let your tastesbuds caress their way through the delectable slush. Due to its large portion, it’s a perfect drink for you and your date to share.
Address: No 2 Képpel Bay Vista, Marine at Képpel Bay, Singapore 098382
Contact: +65 6776 0777
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur & PH: 9am – 12am (last order 11.30pm)
Fri, Sat & eve of PH: 9am – 1am (last order 12.30am)
Email: info@prive.com.sg
Website: Privé Bakery Café