Discovering Amor: A Taste of Spain in Singapore
Spanish cuisine may not dominate the culinary scene in Singapore like Italian or Japanese fare, but it certainly has carved out a niche for itself. For those who relish the vibrant flavors of tapas and the comforting embrace of paella, Amor is a new gem that promises to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. Spearheaded by Head Chef Yu Wang Leung and hospitality expert Azad Sharma, this restaurant is a fresh take on traditional Spanish dishes, set against a backdrop of lively decor and a welcoming atmosphere.
A New Culinary Venture
Yu and Azad’s journey began at Olivia and Noa Lounge, where they honed their skills and developed a shared passion for innovative cuisine. With Amor, they aim to create a space that not only serves delicious food but also fosters a sense of community among diners. Located on Amoy Street, Amor joins a vibrant lineup of eateries, including the rustic Kulto, but distinguishes itself with a more dynamic and colorful ambiance, perfect for date nights or festive gatherings.
The Atmosphere: A Feast for the Eyes
As you approach Amor, the colorful mosaic sliding door beckons you inside. The entrance features a stunning trencadís mosaic bar, a nod to the artistic influences of Catalonia and the legendary Antoni Gaudí. Once inside, the decor bursts with bold colors and patterns, creating a lively atmosphere that sets the stage for an exciting culinary adventure.
A Culinary Journey Through Tapas
The menu at Amor is a delightful exploration of traditional Spanish dishes, each given a creative twist. One standout is the barbecued oysters, priced at $10 each. These juicy morsels are elevated with a savory escabeche sauce that beautifully balances their natural brininess. The jamón Ibérico croquettes ($14) are another highlight, featuring a crispy potato crust and a rich, creamy filling, topped with a glistening sheet of cured ham. These croquettes are not just good; they are among the best you’ll find in recent memory.
Signature Dishes That Dazzle
One of Amor’s signature dishes, the Happy Eggggg ($18), is a visual and gastronomic delight. Served in long-stemmed glasses, this parfait-like creation combines pumpkin purée, truffle sabayon, a perfectly cooked 65°C onsen egg, crispy jamon chips, and brown butter sourdough croutons. The medley of flavors and textures is nothing short of tantalizing, leaving diners eager for more.
No Spanish restaurant would be complete without gambas, and Amor’s version does not disappoint. Featuring plump, sashimi-grade jumbo prawns, cooked to perfection and resting on a bed of smoked potato foam, this dish is a celebration of flavors. The garlic-infused olive oil adds a fragrant touch, although a side of crispy bread would have been a welcome addition for soaking up the robust sauce.
Mains That Impress
For mains, the wagyu short ribs ($34) are a must-try. These tender, beautifully plated ribs carry the subtle aroma of charcoal, complemented by a refreshing salsa-like dressing, pickled red cabbage, and a buttery artichoke sauce. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on the palate.
The lobster arroz meloso ($76) is another showstopper, featuring a whole barbecued lobster atop a bed of seafood-enriched rice. While the lobster is undeniably fresh and tender, the rice falls slightly short of expectations, arriving a bit overdone. For a dish at this price point, diners might hope for a more perfect execution.
Sweet Endings
Desserts at Amor are commendable, with the hazelnut almond lava cake ($18) pairing beautifully with coconut ice cream. The bombas ($10), a delightful orange and white chocolate confection, serve as a refreshing palate reset, rounding off the meal on a high note.
Final Thoughts
With a rating of 4 out of 5 from Time Out, Amor is open from Monday to Saturday, offering lunch and dinner services that cater to both casual diners and those looking for a special night out. Located at 107 Amoy St, Singapore 069927, it stands as a testament to the growing appreciation for Spanish cuisine in Singapore, inviting adventurous eaters to explore its vibrant flavors and creative interpretations.
