Standing for “the golden age” in French, La Belle Epoque is the latest addition to the vibrant riverfront F&B belt that is Boat Quay. Helmed by Chef Firduaz, who brings over a decade’s worth of experience and tutelage from the industry’s best mentors, La Belle Epoque boasts an eclectic take on contemporary European cuisine. 

With gorgeous views of the Singapore River, Le Belle Epoque looks to be one of the up and coming hangout spots in the CBD. Skins ($8++), which is composed of a variety of fish, chicken, pork, and seasonal vegetable skins gives off intense umami flavours which are best paired with a pint or two. 

Vegetarian and keto-friendly options are aplenty here, and the Hummus Taco ($10++) is not to be missed if you’re looking for delicious bites that don’t exceed your calorie quota. The hummus is made with smoked chickpeas that add a smoky aftertaste to this addictive combination. Watch out for that extra kick from the chillis! 

The Oyster & Iberico ($26++ for 3 pieces) is made for indulgence. The fresh oyster is perfectly seasoned by the crispy iberico ham, while the tomato salsa and Avruga caviar add a touch of decadence to this luxurious shellfish. A must-try for oyster lovers. 

The Chacuterie Platter ($8++ per serving per meat) is as straightforward as they come. After all, it’s hard to mess up a grazing board. The price per portion is notably steep, and you can find more price-worthy versions elsewhere. Diners can enjoy 4 cold cuts and cheeses of their choice for $28++. 

The Cauliflower Steak ($12++) is another vegetarian-friendly item that sounded promising. However, the smokey flavour did overwhelm the senses and got a tad cloying as we made our way through the dish. Full marks for the purple pommes potato though, which nailed it in terms of flavour. The actual cauliflower could have fared better if it was more integrated with the other elements on the plate, instead of simply being smoked and cured. 

The Beef Short Ribs ($28++) was highly welcomed by our table after a slew of vegetarian dishes. Marinated with local spices and cooked for 48 hours, the inner parts of the short rib yield fork-tender meat that blends perfectly with the aged port wine sauce. This would have been a home run if the outer parts were not so dry in comparison. 

While an experimental and innovative menu is one of the things that makes a restaurant stand out, classics are still classics for a reason. Certain dishes like the Creme Brûlée Au Foie Gras ($15++) and Lemon Tart ($10++) could prove a little too experimental for diners’ palates. 

 

 

Diners who are seeking a little familiarity amid all that eclecticness that is La Belle Epoque’s cookery can find a spot of comfort in the Guerre Stellari ($10++), also known as Star Wars for the triangular-shaped dark chocolate shell taking after the Imperial Star Destroyer. The rum chocolate mousse is rich in flavour, while the tartness of the raspberry sorbet refreshes your tastebuds. 

Overall, some hits and misses at La Belle Epoque, but I’m convinced some fine-tuning could help it find its niche in Singapore’s food scene. 

Address: 63 Boat Quay, Singapore 049851
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place EW14/NS26
Opening Hours: 
Monday to Saturday: 3pm – 11.30pm 
Closed on Sunday
Contact: +65 6732 1687

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