Celebrated Singaporean Chef Haikal Johari is serving up French-inspired classic cuisine in alkove, a casual bistro in the midst of a quiet neighbourhood in Kovan. Right at the corner of Simon Plaza where the road intersection is at, alkove is aptly named – the bistro is lined with wide window alcoves to let the light in. It feels like a perfect place to enjoy a freshly brewed cuppa in the morning or a cosy family dinner in the evening.

For entrée, we have the Charcuterie Plate ($17), comprising of four different cold cuts, crostini, green apple slices, tiny cheese cubes and a variety of nuts. To be honest, the photo on the menu looks a lot more substantial that what is being served on our plate. Nonetheless, the charcuterie is a good grazing prelude to our mains, whetting up a good appetite for what is to come.

The Wagyu Onglet Steak Frites ($29.90) is delicious and tender, a cut of pure muscle meat that is intensely flavourful. The medium rare steak is perfectly complemented with caramelised onions and red wine reduction sauce, every bite is a pleasure.

The good old classic Chicken Cordon Bleu ($22.90) also does not disappoint. Wrapped in layers of chicken thigh meat, cheese and ham, the chunky roll is breaded and deep fried into a golden-brown hue, served with a creamy sauce. Despite it being deep fried, the chicken remains tender and juicy when eaten with the ham and melted lava cheese. Both mains are served with a generous serving of rocket salad and thick cut fries.

There is only one dessert on the menu, which is Crème Caramel ($11.90) and fortunately, it is done really well. The custard is smooth and silky and the caramel sauce gives a delightful charred taste of sugar that carries a hint of bitterness. Not satisfied with just one dessert, I ordered a slice of Lemon Basil Loaf ($5.20) from the counter. To my pleasant surprise, it is served warm, with a small dollop of clotted cream. I love lemon desserts and this one hits the spot for its unapologetic tanginess and zest. The texture is a little dense, somewhat like a cake, and the thin layer of sweet icing balances out the sour notes of the gateau. For other sweet options, you can order petit fours like canelés, financiers or madeleines that are baked fresh daily.

This cheerful bistro feels welcoming and unpretentious for anyone who wants to dine in a relaxed atmosphere, choosing from a small array of classic French dishes that are hearty and delicious. The menu is not very extensive but it contains kids’ options and a great selection of freshly baked goods, coffee, tea and wine.

alkove
2 Kovan Road, #01-10 Simon Plaza Singapore 548008
10am – 9pm, Monday, Wednesday-Friday
9am – 9pm, Saturday & Sunday
Closed on Tuesday

Food: 7.5/10
Price/value: 7/10
Décor/ambience: 7/10

This was an invited tasting. Written by Cheang Shwu Peng.