Navigating the culinary landscape in the bustling heart of the CBD can be a challenge. Long queues and hectic schedules often make it difficult to find a quick yet satisfying meal. Enter Market Bistro at Marina Bay Financial Centre—a Wall Street-inspired eatery that brings a slice of New York’s vibrant food scene to Singapore.
Offering a chic and contemporary dining space, it’s perfect for both quick lunches and unwinding after a long day. Here’s a detailed review of my experience and a few must-try dishes.
Table of Contents
Starters and Sharing Plates
Fried Baby Squid ($15)
The fried baby squid is a standout starter that sets the tone for a delightful dining experience. The squid is crispy and perfectly paired with a house-made sauce that combines the kick of chilli oil with the creaminess of garlic aioli. The combination is nothing short of amazing, enhancing the calamari’s flavour and making each bite a joy. While some may find the batter a bit thick, the flavourful sauce more than makes up for it.
Daily Mixed Salad ($10)
A fresh and standard option, the daily mixed salad offers a mix of greens that are crisp and refreshing. It serves as a good palate cleanser before diving into the richer dishes that follow.
Gratinated Japanese Oysters ($16)
While these oysters are certainly fresh and generously topped with cheese, I found that the cheese’s strong flavour tended to overshadow the delicate taste of the oysters. It’s a decent dish, but one that could benefit from a more balanced approach to its ingredients.
Mains
Wagyu Burger Royale ($24)
This is, without a doubt, the crown jewel of Market Bistro’s menu. The Wagyu patty is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavour, all encased in a golden, perfectly toasted bun. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that make it a must-try for any burger enthusiast. Seth Lui agrees, highlighting it as the signature dish not to be missed.
Irish Duck Confit ($28)
The Irish duck confit is another highlight, featuring tender meat that falls off the bone effortlessly. The crispy skin adds a delightful texture, while the sweet potato mash provides a sweet contrast to the savoury duck. The dish is well-balanced and showcases a sophisticated blend of flavours that are sure to impress.
Steak Frites ($28)
The steak frites, while decent, didn’t quite hit the high notes. The steak was tender and came with herb butter, but it lacked the wow factor. The fries were standard, and overall, it felt like a dish that could use a bit more refinement to truly shine.
Desserts
Raspberry Cheesecake Parfait ($12)
This dessert is a fascinating mix of sour and salty profiles. The tangy raspberry pairs intriguingly with the creamy, slightly salty cheesecake, creating a dessert that is both refreshing and complex. It’s an interesting combination that stands out from more conventional dessert offerings.
Chocolate Brownie ($12)
The chocolate brownie is a heartwarming end to the meal. Rich, gooey chocolate is paired with creamy vanilla ice cream, making for a comforting and indulgent dessert. It’s a simple yet effective way to satisfy any sweet tooth and is best enjoyed shared.
What We Like
If you’re planning a visit to Market Bistro, make sure to try their standout dishes. Start with the Fried Baby Squid ($15), where crispy calamari meets a delectable house-made sauce. For mains, the Wagyu Burger Royale ($24) is a must-try, featuring a tender, juicy patty perfectly balanced with a golden bun. The Irish Duck Confit ($28) offers tender meat with a delightful crispy skin, complemented by a sweet potato mash. Finally, don’t miss the Chocolate Brownie ($12) for dessert—rich, gooey chocolate paired with creamy vanilla ice cream, providing a heartwarming and indulgent end to your meal.
Final Thoughts
Market Bistro offers a compelling dining option for those working or visiting the CBD. With its Wall Street-inspired decor and a menu that promises high-quality, flavourful dishes, it’s a great spot for both casual lunches and more formal gatherings. While some dishes could use a bit of tweaking, the overall experience is enjoyable and worth repeating. For anyone in the area, the Wagyu Burger Royale and the Irish Duck Confit are particularly worth a try.
Next time you find yourself in the CBD, craving something quick yet satisfying, head over to Market Bistro. Whether you’re there for the succulent duck confit or the indulgent chocolate brownie, you’re sure to leave with a smile.
