Discovering Amor: A New Spanish Culinary Gem in Singapore
A Fresh Addition to Amoy Street
Nestled in the bustling heart of Amoy Street, a new Spanish restaurant named Amor has emerged, bringing with it a wave of Mediterranean flavors and a passion for culinary innovation. In a city where dining options are abundant and competition is fierce, Amor sets out with earnest ambitions to carve its niche in Singapore’s vibrant food scene.
Navigating the Spanish Culinary Landscape
Singapore’s dining landscape is a tapestry of diverse cuisines, and Spanish food is no exception. With established players like Tapas Bar and Grill and Gaudi Bar dominating the scene, introducing something novel can be a daunting task. Even the beloved Basque cheesecake, a staple in many Spanish restaurants, was popularized by Olivia Restaurant & Lounge, where Amor’s executive chef, Yu Wang Leung, previously honed his skills.
A Bold Approach to Tapas
Despite the challenges, Amor embraces the spirit of innovation with dishes that aim to surprise and delight. One standout offering is the Happy Eggggg ($18++), a visually stunning creation served in a martini glass. This dish features a 65-degree Celsius onsen egg layered with roasted pumpkin coulis, truffle sabayon, crispy jamon chips, and brown butter sourdough croutons, garnished with dill and chervil. The presentation is almost dessert-like, and the combination of flavors creates a delightful experience that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
While the Happy Eggggg impresses, not every dish hits the mark. The foie gras terrine tart ($16++) attempts to reinterpret escalivada but falls short, with the foie gras overshadowed by the stronger flavors of roasted eggplant, onion, and capsicum. This highlights the delicate balance required when blending traditional Spanish elements with modern twists.
Celebrating Classic Flavors
For those who prefer the classics, Amor excels with its gambas al ajillo ($34++), featuring fresh prawns sautéed in garlic and served with a smoky potato foam. The jamon iberico croquettes ($14++) are another must-try, offering a silky texture encased in a crunchy potato chip coating, a delightful twist on the traditional panko crust. These dishes are also available as part of a $38++ set lunch, making them accessible for a midday indulgence.
A Seafood Lover’s Dream
If paella isn’t your preference, the lobster arroz meloso ($76++) presents a fantastic alternative. This dish features rice cooked to perfection in a rich seafood broth, topped with succulent barbecued lobster. While the flavors are robust, a touch more salt could elevate the dish even further.
Meat Dishes That Impress
Amor doesn’t shy away from meat either. The charcoal-grilled wagyu short rib ($68++) strikes a harmonious balance between sweet and savory, enhanced by a tangy sofrito and artichoke puree. This dish showcases the kitchen’s ability to elevate classic ingredients into something truly memorable.
Decadent Desserts to End on a High Note
No meal is complete without dessert, and Amor offers tempting options like the hazelnut and almond lava cake ($18++) and the Basque burnt cheesecake ($16++). The latter is also included in the set lunch, which features three courses and can be enjoyed in a vegetarian version, catering to a wider audience.
Visit Amor
For those eager to explore this new culinary destination, Amor is located at 107 Amoy Street, just a short walk from the Telok Ayer MRT station. The restaurant welcomes guests from noon to 3 PM and again from 7 PM to midnight, Monday through Saturday. For more information, you can visit their website at amorsingapore.com.
With its ambitious menu and dedication to quality, Amor is poised to become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of Spain in Singapore.
