Marmalade Pantry at the Stables (Fairways Drive) – Bistro Delights with a Touch of Nature

Tucked within the lush greenery of Singapore’s countryside, away from the bustling city crowd, The Marmalade Pantry at Fairways Drive serves up contemporary bistro favourites in the casual-chic ambiance of a colonial house.

Going a different direction from its ION Orchard outlet, Pantry at the Stables, which has taken over the now-defunct Mimolette, entices customers with a new unique dining experience.

Choose between the cosy, stylish indoor dining or the charming outdoor area. If you’re headed down for weekend brunch, I’d definitely recommend a table outdoors to fully take in the idyllic surroundings. For dinner, I would advise indoor seats as it gets pretty dark quickly in that area.

Starters

Mexican chicken salad
S$22++

For those who like a kick to jump-start the appetite, the Mexican chicken salad is for you. With crisp tortilla chips, juicy bits of chicken, spiced corn, salsa and avocado, this hearty salad is a balanced mix of textures and flavours. A definite must-try!

Pan seared haloumi
S$21++

Served on a bed of uplifting fresh roma tomatoes and watercress herb salad, the flavours in the pan seared haloum – a firm, salty cheese made from sheep and cow’s milk – are accentuated. The sweet tomato slices highlight the saltiness of the cheese, while the seared parts lend a smoky taste.

Mains

Spaghetti carbonara
S$24++

I am a huge fan of cream sauce pastas, so I just have to order the recommended spaghetti carbonara. As much as I like the presentation and the strong aroma of the cream sauce, the dish falls flat. The poached egg is overdone and pasta clumped together before I can even begin to dig in.

Pan roasted red snapper
S$28++

Presented atop a bed of tasty ratatouille, the pan roasted red snapper with a light herb crust is a delight. While the tomato-based sauce masks the parsley in the crust, it helps to smooth out the slightly dry texture of the fish.

Steak and eggs
S$38++

Served in an adorably small skillet, the steak and eggs – the most expensive item on the menu – is a highlight of the evening. Besides some edges being slightly burnt, the steak has been executed well and pairs nicely with its accompanying brown sauce. The mashed peas, which have replaced the traditional side of potatoes, are a welcome breath of fresh air and goes surprisingly well with the steak.

Desserts

Sea salt caramel cheesecake
S$$8++/slice, S$60/whole cake

A friend has been bugging me to try the sea salt caramel cheesecake ever since The Marmalade Pantry opened at Fairways Drive. The dessert is a smooth, well-bodied cheesecake with sinful bits of caramel within. I find the savoury component too faint. If it was a smidgeon saltier, it would have been perfect.

Lemon brulee tart
S$14++

I usually swear by chocolatey desserts to end a meal, but this time round the lemon brulee tart almost made me a convert. With a thin, light caramel top, the tart is just the right mix of sweet and sourness, and is delicious both alone or when paired with whipped cream. A highly recommended item if you still have room for desserts.

While Pantry at the Stables may be hidden away from the lively city area and is not easily accessible by public transport, this enchanting family-friendly establishment is worth a trip. With the impeccable service and a great locale, I foresee this becoming the next popular chill-out place amongst friends.

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