After a brief closure in 2021, NOX – Dine in the Dark is back! For those of you who’ve not heard of NOX, it’s one of Singapore’s most unique dining experiences which lets guests dine in pitch-black darkness while being guided by visually impaired hosts.
Relaunching at a new two-storey space along Club Street, NOX is a feast for the senses.
Its new design is sleek and inviting with burnished copper furnishings and warm-toned interiors, adorned with a stunning RGB art wall that reveals different visuals with a 20-second interval, and their signature Braille-inspired wall installation.
Additionally, expect quirky cocktail creations by Sam Wong (a Diageo World Class finalist of Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall), and an extended wine list.
Not knowing what to expect as it was my first time, I entered the place and was pretty surprised at the dim-lit lounge. That’s when my host for the evening informed me that the first floor houses as a bar and doubles as a waiting room. Ah, so that’s the catch!
I started off with a glass of signature cocktail and palate-cleansing amuse-bouche before heading upstairs for the dining-in-the-dark experience to commence. Once done, I signalled to my host to let him know we were ready to head upstairs.
Full disclosure, I’m afraid of the dark hence the walk up, felt like an eternity to me. That, and I was hoping for the alcohol to calm my nerves for the fear of getting an anxiety attack. Led by a trained visually impaired host to offer guidance and reassurance to sighted guests, I put on my best front and went ahead.
However, I was filled with the spirit of carpe diem (and a slight alcohol buzz) which calmed my nerves.
After being led to our table (in pitch darkness), it took me a while to get adjusted to my seat and fumble around to have a mental image of where my utensils and glasses were. Here’s the deal— it felt like someone blindfolded me the entire time and I wasn’t allowed to take them off. Terrifying, I know, but mind over matter, right?
Once that was settled, my very patient host then informed us he’d be bringing out our starters, followed by mains and dessert. Do note that it’s a 12-course meal, where you’ll be served with four small portions of each course only to guess what it is later. I can be quite picky with my food so imagine my surprise after when I found out the dishes I enjoyed were the ones I usually avoid due to their outlook.
The various dishes taught me to rely on my other four senses and not be too dependent on my sight. Think texture and aroma. The multi-sensory Tasting Menu is priced at 88++ with the addition of 30++ (for wine flight) or 50++ (for cocktail flight). Reservations can be made here.
Other articles you might like:
7-Eleven collabs with Taste Asia to launch 2 new HK-style ready-to-go meals under S$3
The return of all-day McGriddles®, KIT KAT® McFlurry®, and exclusive 1-for-1 deals
NOX - Dine in the Dark
83 Club Street, Singapore 069451
NOX - Dine in the Dark
83 Club Street, Singapore 069451
