The Place How often do we get a standalone restaurant in Singapore, let alone one nestled within a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Housed in a gorgeous spot surrounded by lush greenery at Singapore Botanic Gardens, the newly opened Tembusu is the latest concept by the Fleursophy Group. 

The interior opens up into a garden-facing conservatory that frames the greenery perfectly. The biggest bonus? It is one of the very few cafes or restaurants in Singapore that is fully pet-friendly indoors. You can actually sit in air-conditioned comfort with your furry companions. 

The Food Expect local and regional heritage flavours with a contemporary touch. The menu transitions from morning items like Nanyang Kopi and homemade Kaya Toast to an all-day menu built for sharing. 

For starters, I had their Signature Otak-Otak Slider (S$20) where the seafood patty is made of spiced Batang fish and tiger prawn, served slider-style and brightened with a citrusy kaffir lime aioli. 

There is also the Stuffed Chicken Wings (S$18/3 pieces) where the boneless chicken wings are packed with a juicy prawn paste stuffing. 

The Singapore Chilli Crab Pasta (S$30) is an al dente rigatoni tossed in a rich, sweet-and-spicy chilli crab sauce, loaded with blue swimmer crab meat, a runny sous vide egg, and a whole crispy soft-shell crab. 

If you prefer something more brunch fare, there is the Joggers Big Breakfast (S$28) which is a hearty platter featuring toasted sourdough, savoury kombu-infused mushrooms, creamy scrambled eggs, avocado, and crispy bacon. 

For dessert, I had their Biscoff Cheesecake (S$14) where the velvety cheesecake comes with Lotus Biscoff cookies. 

Interestingly, there are also Chinese dessert options on the menu such as their Freshly Ground Black Sesame Paste (S$6.90). 

For drinks, you can opt to go local with Kopi or go western with Americano, all served in beautiful vintage cups.

Rants Be prepared for massive crowds on weekends so do reserve well ahead. During busy periods, service can feel a little stretched. 

Will I Return Again? The space itself is relaxing. Finding a spot where you can enjoy refined Straits-inspired dishes indoors with your pets makes it a bonus win. 

TheRantingPanda says:
Taste bud: 3.5/5
Hole in the pocket: 4/5
Ambience: 3.5/5
Overall Experience: 3.5/5  

Tembusu  
1 Cluny Road, Ginger Garden, Singapore Botanic Gardens,  
Singapore 259569 
Tel: +65 8988 6658 

Opening Hours 
Sunday to Thursday: 8am to 6pm 
Friday & Saturday: 8am to 9pm 

Ranted by The Ranter