Quietly taking over the former space of Alma, PLU Singapore arrives in Singapore with little fanfare but plenty of pedigree. Hailing from Bangkok and backed by a Bib Gourmand accolade, PLU marks its first international outpost, setting up home within the charming grounds of Goodwood Park Hotel. Named after the wild betel leaf and Bangkok’s Suan Plu Alley, the restaurant offers a space that blends colonial elegance with modern touches, providing a tranquil dining sanctuary amid Orchard’s bustle.
Burmese Tea Leaves Salad 4.5/5
The Burmese Tea Leaves Salad ($20), or Lahpet Thoke, is a rare find in Singapore and a standout starter. Built around fermented tea leaves, the dish delivers a fascinating interplay of textures and flavours. A medley of crunchy elements, particularly the toasted peanuts, adds depth and contrast, while a punchy dressing of fish sauce, lime juice and peanut oil ties everything together. It is bright, nutty and deeply aromatic, a refreshing yet complex opening to the meal.
Chicken with Galangal Coconut Soup 4.5/5
The Chicken with Galangal Coconut Soup ($28), better known as Tom Kha Gai, showcases a comforting balance of richness and fragrance. The broth, made from chicken stock enriched with coconut milk, is luxuriously silky without being overly heavy. Lemongrass and makrut lime leaves lend a lifted citrusy aroma, while tender chicken pieces and mushrooms soak up the creamy, flavourful soup beautifully.
Chicken Green Curry 4.5/5
A staple done right, the Chicken Green Curry ($28) delivers on all fronts. The curry strikes a harmonious balance of spice, sweetness and savouriness, enriched by the creaminess of coconut milk. The tender chicken pairs perfectly with the thin, fragrant gravy, which begs to be soaked up with steamed rice. It’s a comforting, well-executed classic and an essential order.
Stir-Fried Baegu Leaves with Egg 4.2/5
The Stir-Fried Baegu Leaves with Egg ($22) introduces a lesser-known Southern Thai speciality. The Baegu leaves are surprisingly approachable, with a mild, nutty sweetness and no bitterness. Even after stir-frying, they retain a pleasant, slightly waxy bite. The addition of softly scrambled eggs, forming tender curds that cling to the leaves, adds richness and aroma. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that offers a welcome respite from the bolder flavours on the table.
Shrimp Pad Thai 4.5/5
The Shrimp Pad Thai ($29) is a quintessential representation of Thai street food done with finesse. The noodles boast a glossy sheen and a beautiful reddish-bronze hue from the tamarind. Each bite delivers the signature Thai balance of sweet, sour and savoury notes, complemented by the fragrance of toasted nuts and a hint of caramelisation. A highlight here is the egg, which retains a slight runniness, adding an extra layer of richness often missing elsewhere.
PLU Singapore may have opened quietly, but it certainly makes a strong impression. With its refined yet approachable dishes and a menu that balances familiar favourites with lesser-seen regional specialities, it brings a slice of Bangkok’s culinary charm into the heart of Singapore. The thoughtful execution and well-calibrated flavours make it a worthwhile addition to Orchard’s dining scene.
PLU Singapore
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 9750 5888
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am – 2pm, 5pm – 9pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]