Philia is a form of love stemming from a mutual sharing of values and ideals. This form of affection is what this new restaurant of the same name, discreetly tucked away in a shophouse at Bali Lane , wants to bring to their customers. Chic and stylish, Philia comes across more like a manifestation of an enterprising business concept rather than a gourmet's love for food. Its focus is not the authentic Greek cuisine it serves (notwithstanding it is pretty decent too), but the “Philia” aspect of its service and atmosphere that makes dining such a pleasure.

• The Vibe
  With a capacity of just 30, the interior of the double-storey restaurant is bold and stylish. Dark hues are utilized to inject sophistication while huge mirrors cleverly reflect the warm lighting to create the illusion of space. There are also the LCD screens showing picturesque scenic shots of Greece taken by owner Marcus Lau. Enjoy also the lounge corner where the sofas are, ideal for a hearty chat over wine after a meal.
  
• The Food
  Those unfamiliar with Greek cuisine can take comfort in the fact that the staff will be happy to recommend you some dishes. Try the Elliniki Salata ($18.00), which is a salad. With specially imported feta cheese accompanied by a generous bowl of fresh aguri cucumbers, tomatoes, olive and other herbs, it is a Greek favourite. However, the locals may find the foreign-ness of the cheese difficult to appreciate and the ingredients might have been better savoured chopped into smaller, chewable pieces.

  The Tzatziki ($8.00) is made of finely chopped aguri cucumber and dill, mixed well with natural yoghurt. You can easily scoop spoonfuls up while savouring the tinge of sweetness of the yoghurt. The Red Cheesy Melitzanes ($9.50) are like eggplant croquettes. Topped with a mixture of tomato pieces, bacon bits, herbs and then baked with cheese, they are so soft, moist and juicy that even grandparents who are losing their teeth can enjoy them.

  Also, order the traditional Moussaka ($18.50), a creamy beef pie. The filling has a smooth and rich consistency, is especially tasty when warm. It is by no coincidence that it is the most popular item at Philia. The Kotopoulo ($18.00) is supposed to be grilled boneless chicken pieces stuffed with vegetables and herbs. There isn't much stuffing found but to its credit, it is a palatable dish as the chicken is tender and well grilled.

  No Greek menu will be complete without the Loukamades Honey Puffs ($5.00) (spelt wrongly as Lukamades in their menu); puff balls drizzled with honey syrup ought to be the delight of die-hard sugar aficionados. However, one may be deeply disappointed to find the honey puffs neither crispy on the outside nor soft or fluffy on the inside.

  Wash it all down with the Greek Coffee ($6.50), which bears an uncanny resemblance to the Turkish version. Do order one if you like dark thick coffee with a tinge of flavour that is reminiscent of chocolate.
  

• The Service
  The service staff at Philia is friendly and articulate. Worthy of special mention is the efforts to provide guests with personalised service. The restaurant keeps a database compiling all the preferences and feedbacks of the guests, and in doing so, they walk the talk of “Philia” love indeed.

SD Food Advisor's Take on Philia Charismatic
At Philia, you will enjoy a quality food in a cosy relaxed environment, almost like going over to your neighbour's house for dinner. You can lounge around and chat over drinks after dinner for hours just like a family would. Although there is still some room for improvement, it has nevertheless struck the right chords in the venue, food and people departments. It's definitely worth checking this place out!