Discovering Casa Mori: A Culinary Gem in Dempsey
A Stunning Ambiance
Nestled in the vibrant Dempsey area, Casa Mori stands out not just for its culinary offerings but also for its breathtaking design. Housed in a beautifully restored barrack, the restaurant exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a sun-dappled courtyard in Spain. With high ceilings, terracotta hues, and earthy tones, the space is a visual delight. The design, crafted by local studio Produce, features columns that mimic towering tree trunks, creating a unique and enchanting dining environment. Whether you’re seated beneath these artistic ‘trees’ or enjoying the open space, the ambiance sets the stage for a memorable meal.
Culinary Collaboration
Casa Mori is the brainchild of two culinary heavyweights: Chef Willin Low, known for his pioneering ‘Mod-Sin’ cuisine at the former Wild Rocket, and José Alonso from Kulto. Their collaboration brings together Singaporean and Asian flavors with a distinct Spanish twist, resulting in a menu that is both innovative and comforting. This fusion of culinary traditions is evident in the dishes, which aim to surprise and delight diners.
Must-Try Dishes
One of the standout offerings is the kalipoquetas ($16 for four pieces), a delightful fusion of curry puff and Spanish croqueta. Stuffed with chicken and potato curry, these bites are served with a dab of curry aioli, making them a comforting crowd-pleaser. Another table favorite is the garlic huajiao prawns ($32), where the subtlety of huadiao wine pairs beautifully with the oily confit garlic base, enhanced by the zing of Sichuan pepper. The accompanying bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.
However, not all dishes hit the mark. The Iberico secreto pork satay ($24 for three pieces) presents a challenge with its overly sweet and salty glaze, which overshadows the quality of the Iberico meat. Served piping hot, the skewers can be tricky to navigate, making the dining experience a bit cumbersome.
Mains That Miss the Mark
Moving on to the mains, the squid ink fried rice ($38) served in a claypot sounds promising but ultimately disappoints. Lacking the expected squid ink flavor and smoky wok hei, it tastes more like ordinary fried rice, despite the addition of crunchy tobiko and baby squid tempura. Similarly, the black cod ($38) leaves diners scratching their heads. While the buttery fish is tender, the accompanying ingredients—pickled olive leaves, takana, tomatoes, and edamame—fail to create a harmonious dish.
In an attempt to reinterpret Singapore’s beloved chicken rice, Casa Mori offers spring chicken ($36) seared in a Josper oven. Unfortunately, the chicken is slightly dry and underseasoned, lacking the punchy chili and ginger elements that make traditional chicken rice so iconic.
Overall Experience
Despite some culinary missteps, dining at Casa Mori is as much about the experience as it is about the food. The restaurant’s stunning setting and inviting ambiance encourage leisurely meals, making it an ideal spot for gatherings. The $35 weekday lunch set offers solid value, while the weekend brunch is perfect for family outings. Diners have also raved about other menu items like the Casa Wagyu Burger ($34), oyster omelette pasta ($28), and Hokkien mee fideua ($58), which are sure to be on the must-try list for future visits.
Practical Information
Casa Mori is located at 11 Dempsey Road, #01-17, Singapore 249673. The restaurant operates from Tuesday to Friday, 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, and on weekends from 11 AM to 10 PM.
Whether you’re drawn by the beautiful design, the innovative menu, or the promise of a leisurely dining experience, Casa Mori is a destination worth exploring in Dempsey.
