For those who live on the other end of Singapore, a long drive away from the Alexandra precinct, like myself, you probably have not been to (or heard of) ARC –Alexandra Retail Centre. To my surprise, the mall is bustling with crowd.
On weekends, activities at the atrium keep the noise level at a constant high –but not excessive to the point of disturbance. We see mostly families with children during weekends, while the working crowd brings life to the mall on weekdays. It’s not surprising to see children’s activities abound; there are enrichment and education centres located within the mall, such as Art Boot Camp, Berries World of Learning School and Cristofori Music School.
Cappuccino ($5.50)
To ardent coffee lovers, I have a piece of good new to share: you have one more place to add to your to-go list –ROOM coffee.bar. Serving up cups of organic USDA Certified coffee that also sport the Rainforest Alliance certification, discerning coffee drinkers will be pleased.
Taylors of Harrogate Tea, Blackberry & Elderflower ($5)
Non-coffee drinkers can also sip on quality Taylors of Harrogate teas, imported from the UK.
What attracts me most to this place is the atmosphere. The façade suggests happiness –something beautiful and soothing. The interior immediately gives off a relaxing and comfortable vibe. The owner describes this look as ‘Scandinavian Chic’.
Regulars of ROOM coffee.bar include senior executives, expatriates, ladies-of-leisure, coffee hunters and Internet geeks.
Don’t be shy to make use of their complimentary WiFi and power point sockets. Dwell in its unhurried pace and laid-back setting, and enjoy an aromatic cup of your favourite brew at your own leisure.
Red Velvet Cake ($6.50 per slice, $65 for whole)
The owner is also a passionate baker. The baking-on-site concept keeps things fresh; she bakes in small batches to maintain the quality and freshness of the products.
The Red Velvet Cake is a highlight. The luscious slather of cream cheese icing provides satisfaction in every mouthful.
Seafood Oyster Pepper Linguine ($14)
Peppery Asian pasta served with scallops and prawns
Pastas at ROOM coffee.bar are exceedingly popular with the office crowd. Do check out their affordable weekday lunch promotions.
Skinny Carbonara ($12.50)
For a Carbonara without the cloying and fatty creaminess, order the Skinny Carbonara. It is tossed with bacon and caramelised onion, and very discreetly spiced.
Laksa Pesto Spaghetti ($14)
The Laksa Pesto and Basil Pesto pastas are best sellers.
The Laksa Pesto Spaghetti turned out a tad dry for my liking, although the robust flavour is apparent.
Basil Pesto Spaghetti ($14.50)
Tossed with chicken strips and freshly made pesto
The Basil Pesto Spaghetti is a personal favourite. You can taste the freshness of the herbs, from the generous coating of pesto that clings on each strand of pasta inseparably.
Kimchi & Bacon Fettucine
The Kimchi & Bacon Fettucine is a new addition to the menu. Though unorthodox and inventive, in general Kimchi and I do not click. Those who enjoy kimchi will be able to appreciate this thoughtful creation.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
For something light, the Cream of Mushroom Soup is recommended. The earthy aroma is present in the foam and till the last sip. I secretly wished they had used a larger cup!
Hot Wings & Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with side salad and Japanese Sesame Dressing (tasting portion)
Other snacks include Chicken Wings ($7.50) and Teriyaki Chicken Skewers ($9.50), both equally succulent. I especially enjoyed the Teriyaki Chicken Skewers – chicken thigh marinated in teriyaki sauce – that comes with a fragrant sesame-infused dip.
Belgium Waffles ($8 with butter & maple syrup, $12 with fresh fruit, vanilla ice cream & chocolate sauce)
The Belgium Waffles here remind me of A&W’s –there’s a familiarity in taste, in which each bite elicits memories of my childhood days, bonding with the family over A&W’s waffles. Since it’s hardly possible that A&W makes a comeback in Singapore, the closest we can get is ROOM coffee.bar’s rendition.
I’m eager to try their breakfast items! For that, I’ll have to wake up early… but I’m sure it’ll be worth it.
ROOM coffee.bar
460 Alexandra Road #01-18
PSA Building (Alexandra Retail Centre)
Singapore 119963
Tel:
Email:
Website: www.roomcoffeebar.sg
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am – 8pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 9am – 6pm