This newly opened restaurant at this quaint part of town which was once famous for its clubs and trade guilds comes with a big reputation. Chef David Phua, who was from the old favourite Brassiere La Rotonde of the now defunct Marco Polo Hotel has formed a potent partnership with his daughter in establishing this new restaurant and bar on the premises left by Mozzaic. Together, they aspire to bring to their guests a quality epicurean experience in the comfort of a casual but romantic ambience.

• The Vibe
  You cannot miss this place as a giant signboard seems to hail your arrival. There is an air of formality as you enter but it is quickly dispelled by the modern minimalist design in the main dining area. You are easily ushered into a relaxed mood by the warm lighting while the canvas paintings accent some artistic flair to the interior of this 70- seater restaurant. The well starched white table cloths and the classy wine glasses atop the tables all indicate that one will be served panache gourmet food. You may then adjourn to the adjoining stylish bar for drinks and a hearty chat with your friends or loved ones.

• The Food
  As before, diners at Brasserie can expect classic French food moderated to suit the Asian palate. To satisfy the faithful following of the former Brasserie who has delightfully swarmed to Club Street , Chef Phua continues to serve traditional favourites such as the French onion soup ($12), panfried goose foie gras ($28) and baked butter escargots ($24). The menu is well balanced and gives clients a good choice of quality selections whether in starters, mains or desserts.

  You may start with the baked oyster florentine ($24) which is a hearty veritable dish which you would surely enjoy. Those who must have their dose of salads will be recommended the house specialty Caesar salad. However, the crispy caesar salad with parmesan cheese, bacon bits and garlic croutons ($14) did not blend so well with the dressing, and the bacon bits that were a tad too roasted also caused it to be a little too salty.

  Feel free to opt for the other two soup choices, namely the Lobster Bisque ($14) and the Lamb Consomme ($14) as they are both equally outstanding. The latter, reminds you of the local delicacy, mutton soup, but is milder and less overwhelming for the uninitiated.

  You are strongly recommended the Grilled Rack of Lamb ($36) under the meat selection. Two well seared juicy racks lounge on the plate, garnished with baby carrots, zucchini and baby potatoes. A cut exposes its medium rare interior, obviously to retain its natural flavours and texture. The Grilled Australian Angus Ribeye Steak ($39) is a good alternative as it is firm to the bite and yet tender enough to allow you to sink your teeth into it effortlessly. If you prefer seafood, you may try the Chilean Seabass Fillet ($30), white wine cream sauce adorn the pristine white flesh, a creation which whets the appetite of even the fussiest.

  The desserts make for the perfect full stop for a scrumptious meal. The signature dessert, the well-coiffed fluffy Lemon Souffle with Ice cream ($12) is like a jewel crusted tiara, its allure stealing the limelight from the rest. The Crepe Suzette with Orange juice and Grand Marnier ($13) is another great choice to sample, brilliantly matched with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream is definitely a worthy sinful indulgence. Stick with the simple but reliable Crème Brulee ($14) if you are not feeling too adventurous.

  After the meal, you may wish to cross over to the bar next door and enjoy some martinis. A must try is the refreshing Brasserie Special Martini ($9 during Happy Hours), whose range of delightful flavours swirl in your mouth as you wonder what goes into this wonderful concoction. If you are keen to know what actually goes into this secret brew, you must try it personally. Cosmopolitan, Apple Martini and Lychee Martini (all $9 during Happy Hours) are other house favourites which you may order at your leisure at the Brasserie.

• The Service
  At Brasserie, they aspire to provide quality fine dining service to accompany quality food. Hence, the waiters are all neatly dressed in dark shirts and pants and are polite and attentive. Co-owners, Janice and Eugene are also eager to ask for your feedback on their restaurant so do not be surprised if they come up to you and engage in a hearty chat with you.

SD Food Advisor's take on The Club Street Brasserie
The Brasserie targets a clientele of mainly yuppies, working crowds and expatriates, and is taking baby but steady steps towards establishing itself in a street peppered with upmarket restaurants and bars. Being of one of them, expect to pay much for the ambience and the guarantee of quality French fare. Its intention to establish itself as a leading French cuisine restaurant is as clear as the giant banner that cascades across the wall of the building. There is no reason why this hunger of success will not fuel Club Street Brasserie to relive better the achievements of the defunct Brassiere La Rotonde.