Review: CAFE REN Reopens With A New Menu Including Japanese-Inspired Dishes
In the bustling café scene of Farrer Park, you are spoilt for choice with numerous brunch spots. However, one that is worth a visit is CAFE REN, making its return after a year of hiatus. But here's the kicker: they're back with a fresh menu, including Japanese-inspired dishes!
If you have not heard of them, they started as a home-based business, KUKI, known for their open-faced lava cookies, and Café REN marks their first physical establishment. The space boasts a cozy and inviting ambience, decked with a clean and minimalistic interior.
REN Karaage
We started with the REN Karaage ($13), which was perfectly seasoned using Sichuan Five Spice, elevating the flavour of the chicken. It was accompanied by their tartare sauce infused with dill, imparting a rich and zesty taste with a refreshing twist, creating a delightful pairing with the chicken.
Oyakodon
Next, we had their Oyakodon ($17), expertly seasoned with Shiitake Dashi and served with a generous amount of chicken and egg. It boasts a light and delicate flavour profile that hits all the right notes.
REN White Curry
Another highlight was the REN White Curry ($24), featuring a selection of seafood goodness, including Tiger Prawns, Mussels, and Asari Clams. We were given the option of pairing it with either sourdough or rice, and we went for the sourdough. This dish offers a savoury umami flavour with a gentle touch of spiciness. The seafood, notably the prawns, was exceptionally fresh and succulent.
Pistachio REN Lava Cookie
To satisfy our sweet tooth, we went for their signature Pistachio REN Lava Cookie ($11) served with Hokkaido Milk Ice Cream. The cookie was incredibly soft and oozing with chocolate goodness. That's not all! It came with a velvety and nutty pistachio sauce that perfectly complemented the rich chocolate cookie.
Beverages
We also could not resist trying their Sweet Potato Latte ($6) after noticing it on the drinks menu. The sweet potato flavour is subtle and aromatic, giving a refreshing twist to the classic latte.
If you are looking for something rejuvenating, you can go for their House Lemonade ($6.50), made with housemade lemonade and bluepea flowers. It provides a harmonious blend of tartness and sweetness, making it the ideal beverage choice for the hot and humid weather.
Final Thoughts
CAFE REN is a must-visit spot if you are in Farrer Park! While it might be a bit pricier than some other cafes, you will find the portions to be quite generous. If you are a seafood lover, we cannot get enough of the REN White Curry, and we highly recommend giving it a try.
If you are looking for more Japanese cafes in Singapore, be sure to check out Baristart and Usagi Pan!
CAFE REN
Location: 681 Race Course Road, #01-305, Singapore 210681
Opening Hours: Tue to Thu, 11am - 5pm | Fri to Sun, 10am - 8pm
