BOTANY, nestled in Robertson Quay, has undergone a refreshing transformation into a warm, botanical-themed space. By day, it serves as an all-day dining spot; by evening, it becomes an intimate venue for any occasion. Founder Cassandra Riene commits to providing a diverse menu that caters to various dietary preferences, including meat, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with the outdoor area overlooking the scenic river, and ideal for diners with pets. Indoors, a cosy, laid-back ambience prevails, enhanced by a chill playlist.
A range of promotions adds to the experience:
● Ladies’ Night: 1-for-1 Botanical Cocktails (U.P. $18 each) every Wednesday from 6pm to 9pm
● Men’s Night: 1-for-1 pints on Thursdays from 6pm to 9.30pm
● Daily Free Flow: $48++ for house wine, draft beer, and Moscato with a 2-hour limit starting at 6pm
Mocktails
We kicked off our meal with refreshing albeit sweet mocktails: Dancing Petals ($12), featuring a blend of assam tea, lemon, raspberry, and honey, and Younger Days ($12), made with apple juice, cinnamon, and rosemary.
Gochujang Cauli 3.5/5
First up was the Gochujang Cauli ($15), lightly battered cauliflower coated in a sweet gochujang sauce with spring onions and sesame seeds. I personally found the sauce too sweet and a bit overpowering, and I thought a lighter touch would have enhanced the dish.
Otah Fritters 4.2/5
Next, we had the Otah Fritters ($15), which were a standout. Slightly crisp on the outside, the fritters revealed a tender otah interior with chunks of fish and prawns, perfectly spiced for a satisfying bite.
Scallop Truffle Capellini 4/5
For mains, we started with the Scallop Truffle Capellini ($29), a chilled capellini dish dressed in truffle salsa and sakura ebi, topped with torched scallops and salmon roe for delightful pops of briny savouriness.
‘Hae Mee’ Pasta 4.2/5
We then tried the ‘Hae Mee’ Pasta ($29), BOTANY’s twist on our local prawn noodles. While I thought the spaghetti could be a touch more al dente, the pasta was bathed in an umami-rich prawn bisque and crowned with a torched tiger prawn and tobiko.
Impossible Rendang Meatball with Mash 4.2/5
A pleasant surprise was the Impossible Rendang Meatball with Mash ($22). The Impossible meatballs, simmered in an aromatic rendang sauce, paired wonderfully with the creamy, buttery mash, making it a hearty plant-based option.
Signature Basque Cheesecake 4.2/5
We couldn’t resist the Signature Basque Cheesecake ($12) for dessert, and the decadent piece did not disappoint. It was super cheesy and just slightly creamy in texture.
Overall, our lunch experience at BOTANY was delightful, with friendly service. We recommend making a reservation, especially if you prefer the cosy indoor seating.
Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.
BOTANY
86 Robertson Quay
#01-03
Singapore 238245
Tel: +65 6951 4861
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Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 9am – 10pm
Sat-Sun: 830am – 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight down Havelock Road towards Four Points by Sheraton. At Four Points by Sheraton, walk to the river. Cross the river and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]