A Review of Meh'r, Singapore

Meh'r by Inderpal

42 South Bridge Road, #05-01

Singapore 058676

The entry to Meh'r is via Carpenter street. As we were walking down this way, I kept asking my dinner partner whether we are actually on the right track. But watch out for the large yellow door! Thankfully, this building is newly renovated and has lift access. So no walking up 5 flights of stairs.

I start by apologising for the atrocious photos to come. Unfortunately we didn't get a table with great lighting and we were having trouble moving around. It was incredibly tight. By that I meant that we were almost sitting elbow to elbow with the people next to us Parisian style and we couldn't get out without pulling the table away. Maybe that is the concept, but I'll be honest, I absolutely hated it. The tables assigned seemed like a luck of a draw. There are ones in the center which seem appropriately spaced and then the ones tucked along wall side was extremely tight.

For dinner tonight, we went with the tasting menu (188++):

• Amuse Bouche - Watermelon, Honeydew, Dragonfruit Tossed in Dehydrated Basil, Laksa and Curry Leaves

• Nasi Padang - Bergidil Pave, Mushroom Rendan, Sambal Ijo Aioli

• Bak Bak Wings - Hainanese Chicken Rice Stuffed Wing, Banana Chilli

• Ramly Duck Slider - Duck Fat Toaster Brioche, Duck Patty, Omelette, Smoked House BBQ Sauce

• Palate Cleanser - Soursop Sorbet, Hot Honey and Shaved Chocolate

• Scallop Ceviche - Scallop Ceviche, Tom Kha Reduction, Thai Mango, Thai Basil, Ikura

• Lamb Briyani - Tandoori Lamb Rack, Coconut Briyani, Eggplant Pachidi, Burnt Cucumber Raita

• Roti Canai - Roti Prata Crumbs Tossed in Sweet Rasam Powder, Curry Caramel, Peach Brulee, Spicy Tapioca Chips

I am trying not to be biased by the fact that my first impression of being squashed in a sardine can at the restaurant. For that reason, I left this review sitting for a while. I wanted to love an establishment like Meh'r. One that represents modern culinary in Singapore, blending influences from different cultures whilst still standing true to Chef Inderpal's roots. However, I thought Meh'r didn't really hit the right notes. Perhaps if you are not familiar with SEA flavours, you might be impressed. But for me as a local, I wanted and needed something more.

Too cute

Booking

There is availability at Meh'r one week ahead and reservations can be made directly through their website.

Accessibility

Located behind South Bridge Road on Carpenter Street, I am sure you will be questioning yourself whether you are at the right location. But you are. It is convenient to get to with Clark Quay Station just a 5 minute walk away.

The Damage

It was a very expensive night for us. At 188 ++ per pax and cocktails at 18++. We spent approximately 500 SGD for the meal.

Would We Recommend?

Unfortunately, it is a no for us. We have had plenty of fine dining Indian, from Nadodi to Thevar and we know what it can achieve when done right. Although Meh'r is not a fine dining establishment, the tasting menu and its price point tells us that it wants to be one. Unfortunately, it didnt quite hit the mark. For those visiting, we would highly recommend taking the ala carte menu for a start.