First dibs: Bites & Brews — Shanghai chain opens 1st SG outlet with Asian-Western fusion Mapo Tofu Lasagna & Jian Bing Burrito

There’s a new kid on the block in the Joo Chiat enclave— Bites & Brews has just opened on 18 Apr 2024 along 15 Crane Road.

Bites & Brews is a well-known restaurant chain originating from Shanghai, and their Joo Chiat outlet marks their first foray into Singapore. This 60-seater restaurant dons a rustic appearance with its decor consisting of second-hand furniture and recycled woods.

What makes the restaurant stand out is its unique fusion menu that blends Asian and Western flavours and concepts together in a creative manner.

Brunch menu items consist of delights ranging from the simple B&B Breakfast (S$23), consisting of chickpea stew, sourdough toast, eggs, chilli potato gratin, grilled tomato & mushroom and arugula-avocado salad and Prawn Toast (S$13) to more unique creations, such as Lamb Shawarma Benedict (S$28) and Gold & Purple Hummus (S$18).

My favourite dish of the day was undoubtedly the Jian Bing Breakfast Burrito (S$16)— instead of the usual flour tortilla, this treat is made with a Chinese jian bing wrapped around BBQ beef brisket, spring onion omelet, coriander, bean sprouts, hoisin sauce and spicy mayo.

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The Half-Soy Ginger Spring Chicken (S$28) is another fusion dish worth trying, featuring tender spring chicken served atop a bed of barley risotto. The flavours of this dish reminded me of chicken rice, with its mild ginger aroma and light taste. Traditional risotto lovers may find this a bit too bland in comparison to the normal version, though.

Head down after 5pm to enjoy their dinner menu, with exclusives such as the Spicy “Piña Colada” Red Snapper (S$45), a tender fish dish stuffed with Chinese cabbage, kaffir lime and ginger.

The Shawarma Lamb Pide Pizza (S$28), made with harissa labneh, feta, mint and peppers is another must-try item. I was obsessed with how cheesy and oozy it was, with the lamb being tender and not too gamey.

For dessert, we enjoyed the Berries & Cream Waffle (S$18)— while satisfying and fluffy, I thought that there could have been more ice cream to adequately coat the waffles more evenly.

Other fusion dishes on the menu include the Mapo Tofu Lasagna (S$21) and Persian Chicken Pide Pizza (S$23). Bites & Brews also has a variety of beautiful drinks and cocktails to sip on while enjoying your meal.

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