The Best Restaurant I Have Tried So Far This Year + They Have Cloudy Bay By The Glass @ Grand Konak, Singapore
- Great, colouful ambience
- Beautiful, colourful tableware
- Generous portion sizes
- Has wine to pair food with (please do not underestimate this—-this is increasingly rare to find)
- Meticulous attention to detail, exemplified by the thoughtful addition of sliced oranges for palate balance
After the excellent Shabestan, which serves Iranian cuisine and is in my opinion, possibly the best restaurant in Singapore, I found myself trying Middle Eastern food again. This time, it was at the Grand Konak.
Nestled along the vibrant Clarke Quay, Grand Konak beckons with a tantalizing fusion of Turkish and Lebanese cuisine, promising a culinary journey through the heart of the Middle East. With its picturesque riverside setting and proximity to the Clarke Quay MRT station, Grand Konak offers not only exquisite flavors but also a captivating ambiance, inviting patrons to savor their meals amidst the breathtaking views of the river. Whether indulging in traditional Turkish delights or savoring the aromatic spices of Lebanese specialties, guests are assured an unforgettable dining experience at this esteemed establishment
Stepping into Grand Konak is like entering a world where modern elegance harmonizes with timeless tradition. Beyond its doors, guests are embraced by an ambiance that marries luxurious sophistication with the vibrant hues of ethnic charm. Set against the backdrop of calming riverside views and adorned with colorful tiled walls, floors, and ethnic cushions, Grand Konak offers not only a feast for the palate but also a visual symphony for the senses.
Grand Konak stands as a culinary haven, enticing patrons with its extensive and eclectic menu that showcases the rich tapestry of Turkish and Lebanese flavors. From the refreshing allure of cold mezzas to the comforting warmth of hot mezzas, the journey through their offerings unfolds like a culinary odyssey. Indulge in the delicate layers of pide-pastry or the aromatic charm of freshly baked pizzas. Savor the succulent delights of shawarmas and wraps, or opt for the sizzling perfection of kebabs and seafood. For those seeking hearty mains or the exotic allure of tagines, Grand Konak offers a diverse selection to satisfy every palate. And to complement the exquisite fare, an array of beverages awaits, from signature cocktails and mocktails to a curated selection of wines, sparkling wines, and spirits including whisky, vodka, gin, and rum.
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand) $18 (glass) $80 (bottle)
Grand Konak proudly boasts a rare gem among its beverage offerings: Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, available by the glass. Pale straw green in hue, this Sauvignon Blanc tantalizes with its fragrant bouquet, exuding ripe stonefruit and lively citrus notes complemented by hints of blackcurrant leaf and tomato plant spice. On the palate, it delivers a fine yet succulent texture, showcasing zesty citrus flavors underscored by refreshing acidity. The wine culminates in a lingering, crisply defined finish, enhanced by an appealing plushness. Sourced from grapes harvested during the cooler night and early morning temperatures, the fruit undergoes meticulous handling, including cold settling for 48–72 hours before fermentation in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures to preserve its inherent freshness. At the blending bench, only components reflecting the true essence of their vineyard origins are selected. Grand Konak’s offering of Cloudy Bay by the glass is a testament to its commitment to providing discerning patrons with exceptional and rare wine experiences.
Pairs excellently with the Cheese Roll below.
Hot Mezza
Cheese Roll (4pcs) $18
With its unassuming appearance, this humble pastry belies a burst of savory goodness that leaves a lasting impression.
From the first bite, you’re greeted with a tantalizing aroma that promises a symphony of flavors. The outer crust, perfectly golden and crisp, gives way to a warm and gooey interior, generously filled with a melange of cheeses. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures, with the creamy cheese melding seamlessly with the flaky layers of pastry.
What sets this cheese roll apart is its simplicity done to perfection. No need for extravagant embellishments or fancy toppings; it’s all about letting the quality of the ingredients shine through. And when paired with a glass of Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, the experience is elevated to new heights. The crisp acidity and vibrant citrus notes of the wine beautifully complement the richness of the cheese, creating a match made in culinary heaven.
To add a final touch of perfection, slices of fresh orange on the side provide a burst of citrusy brightness. They offer sweetness and acidity which are a great balance to the savory richness of the cheese roll. Details matter!
Imam Bayildi $18
Ottoman cuisine consisting of whole aubergine stuffed with onion garlic, and tomatoes and simmered in olive oil
Imam Bayildi, a jewel of Ottoman cuisine, captivates with its simplicity and depth of flavors.
The dish begins with whole aubergines, their deep purple skins hinting at the richness within. Each aubergine is carefully stuffed with a tantalizing mixture of onions, garlic, and tomatoes, creating a symphony of savory goodness. But it is the slow simmering in olive oil that truly elevates Imam Bayildi to culinary greatness.
As the aubergines gently cook, they absorb the fragrant olive oil and meld with the aromatic flavors of the stuffing. The result is a dish that is as indulgent as it is comforting, with each bite offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
Pairs excellently with Tulloch E.M. Chardonnay.
Tulloch E.M. Chardonnay (Australia) $14 (glass) $65 (bottle)
Crafted with care and matured to perfection, the Oak-Aged Chardonnay presents a symphony of flavors that dance gracefully on the palate. Aged in a combination of new and one-year-old French oak puncheons for eight months, this wine exudes elegance from the very first sip.
In the glass, it boasts a brilliant straw color with delicate hints of pale gold, inviting the connoisseur to indulge in its beauty. The nose offers a delightful melody of citrus and toast, with subtle undertones of roasted almond and a touch of spice, promising a sensory journey like no other.
On the palate, the wine reveals its true character with textured flavors of ripe nectarine, zesty citrus, and warm toast, all elegantly intertwined. As it unfolds, hints of light spicy almond and honeycomb add depth and complexity, leading to a clean, dry, and moderately creamy finish that lingers on the palate.
With each sip, the aftertaste evokes memories of sun-ripened nectarines, golden toast, roasted almond, and the lingering sweetness of spicy honeycomb, leaving a lasting impression that beckons the discerning palate to savor every moment.
Pastry-Pidde
Pide Pepperoni $27
Freshly made pide with Turkish sun-dried salami and mozzarella
I had the pleasure of trying their freshly made pide topped with Turkish sun-dried salami and gooey mozzarella cheese, and I must say, it was an absolute delight.
From the moment the aroma of warm bread and savory spices wafted to my table, I knew I was in for a treat. The pide itself was a work of art – golden-brown and perfectly baked, with just the right amount of crispiness on the edges. As I took my first bite, I was greeted by a burst of flavors that danced across my palate.
The Turkish sun-dried salami provided a rich, smoky taste that was perfectly complemented by the creamy mozzarella cheese. Each bite was a harmonious blend of savory and tangy notes, leaving me craving more with every mouthful.
Alongside the delectable pide, slices of fresh orange are served, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the dish. This thoughtful addition elevates the dining experience, ensuring that every flavor is savored in perfect equilibrium.
Main Course
Fesenjan Stew $39
Caspian-style braised duck or chicken cooked in a walnut and pomegranate sauce. Served with basmati rice.
From the moment the dish arrived at the table, I was captivated by the stunning array of colors that greeted me. The deep mahogany hue of the rich sauce contrasted beautifully with the vibrant red of the cherry tomatoes and the crisp green of the coriander. On the side was the warm hues of the basmati rice. All these shades created a visual tapestry that hinted at the explosion of flavors to come.
This Caspian-style masterpiece features tender braised chicken (you have the choice of duck too) bathed in a sumptuous walnut and pomegranate sauce, served alongside fragrant, nutty basmati rice. Prepare to be transported to a realm where flavors dance on your palate and every bite tells a story.
As soon as the dish arrived, I was enraptured by the rich aroma that filled the air – a tantalizing blend of earthy walnuts, tangy pomegranate, and savory meat. The first spoonful was a revelation, as the velvety sauce enveloped my senses with its complex layers of sweetness and depth. The tender or chicken soaked up the flavors like a sponge, resulting in a harmonious union of textures and tastes.
What truly sets the Fesenjan Stew apart is the masterful balance of ingredients. The walnuts impart a luscious creaminess to the sauce, while the pomegranate adds a subtle tartness that keeps your palate intrigued with each mouthful. Paired with the deliciously nutty basmati rice, it’s a symphony of flavors that leaves you craving more long after the last bite is gone.
Recommended pairing with the stew is the Chateau D’Esclans Whispering Angel Rose below.
Chateau D’Esclans Whispering Angel Rose (France) $12 (glass) $85 (bottle)
At first glance, the wine’s appearance is a sight to behold – a vision of pale coral pink that glimmers like a gem in the sunlight. This visual allure sets the stage for what is to come, hinting at the exquisite flavors that await within.
Upon nosing the wine, one is greeted by a symphony of aromas that dance gracefully from the glass. Red fruit bursts forth with vitality, accompanied by the subtle fragrance of fresh herbs that adds a layer of complexity. Tangy pink grapefruit notes linger in the background, tantalizing the senses and inviting anticipation of the first sip.
And what a sip it is. Whispering Angel is the epitome of elegance and polish, with an easy drinkability that belies its underlying depth. The palate is impeccably structured, offering a harmonious balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality that delights at every turn. Yet, beneath its surface lies a hidden complexity, revealing layers of nuance with each subsequent taste.
From its delicate pale coral pink hue to its captivating bouquet and sophisticated palate, every sip of Whispering Angel is a journey through the realms of elegance and flavor.
Desserts
Kunafa $18.90
Traditional middle eastern dessert made from cheese pastry soaked in sweet sugar-based syrup
As soon as the dish arrives, you’re greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pastry. The sight of golden-brown strands of pastry is enough to make your mouth water in anticipation. You add the syrup served on the side according to your taste.
Upon the first bite, you’re enveloped in a whirlwind of flavors that dance across your palate. The cheese pastry is rich and creamy, with a subtle hint of saltiness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the syrup. Each bite yields a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of sweetness that lingers on the tongue, leaving you craving more with every mouthful.
Lebanese Coffee $7.90
A bold and aromatic cup steeped in tradition and warmth.
Grand Konak Turkish and Lebanese Restaurants
Blk D River Valley, #01-05 Clarke Quay, Singapore 179023
Tel: 8208 9123
