Saffron Indian Bistro

I was looking through the food photos in my Blackberry, trying hard to think what kinds of food I would introduce to revitalize this blog. Then it struck me when I remembered this memory vividly. This particular restaurant was somehow linked to the previous post on Baikouken Ramen. It was when I was hungry for Ramen a second time that I brought my besties to the same place, near boat quay. It was a Monday and Baikouken just happens to close on Mondays, CARELESS ME!! It was really by chance that we decided to sate our North Indian taste buds as we stumbled upon Saffron just moments later. Yes, the two restaurants are really close. 

Ambiance: Saffron certainly was quite the different setting and don’t be fooled by their quiet environment, this here bistro actually has a long list of guests waiting to patronize it. There’s always been a significant difference when you think North Indian as compared to other Indian cultures. The North Indian cultures are closer to Arabic cultures and there is just one thing about lighting they seem to like to play with. Along with the scents of mint or herbal spices and leaves, they bring about this sensual environment. Yes, I mean relaxing and rather sensual. Lights dimmed down to allow the table candle more presence in your dinner company. The bistro definitely gets a thumbs up for bringing you into the mood for some “kick back and relax” moments. North India never felt so close, though I could’ve done with some nice live dinner music but the perfect radio station choice was a pass on their part. Furniture also plays a part and the Bistro has done wonderfully in matching the colours well, one wouldn’t think the overly-red surroundings to be anything of an eyesore. That’s if you have an eye for Indian embroidery and are in the mood. 

Food: I wouldn’t say I tasted 90% of the menu but the two things to not miss here as of the Chef’s recommendation, would be the Naan and Biryani. The Biryani originated in South Asia and is popular in most Muslim countries, not forgetting North India and Arabia. It is a rice dish that is cooked with spices and herbs in layers before being served with meats of different types. The meats include mutton, chicken and fish not forgetting the occasional eggs and vegetables of different sorts which come in a curry. The curry I ordered was mutton, my personal favourite and definitely the pride of their very culinary skills. The other curry was my bestie’s choice of Fish. (cause she don’t like them chicken!)

It feels like a union of two very different, very balanced blend. Remember the word, UNION. Biryani rice layered in different smells and spices accompanied by the hard-hitting flavours of the curry, that is the UNION. Smooth textures of the mutton with its crisp, rubbery bite size coupled alongside the slightly olive tasting rice was just astounding. The fish was very well cooked as well, eliciting the fine aromas of herbs sliding slowly down its steaming sinews. Food bliss! *CAUTION: Do not underestimate this small portion it comes in as it would fill your stomach right to the brim, somehow.*

The other recommendation by the chef that night was the Naan. The North Indian specialty source of carbohydrates which go perfectly with the curries. However, the Naan did not originate from North India but came from Persia? The Persian bread boasts a great texture which leaves the mouth watering and wanting more. I would describe it as a breath of air through each bite since I always believed it was a play with the foldings in the makings of it. The air spaces perhaps created a space for the perfect crusting of the bread inside and out as it cooks on the flat grill. The curries which are carefully cooked with the addition of different herbs and spices, this three-way combination would knock your socks off!

There was one other thing that spiced my interest and want to advertise this restaurant. That being their very special mint sauce. Unfortunately, the chef didn’t reveal the secret blends behind the special sauce which went so well with the meats in the curry and a dip for the Naan. Something you wouldn’t want to miss!! Always a plus for a mystery in the menu, no?  

Extra info:

 1) Most foods here are cooked in spices and herbs. If you have bad allergies to some herbs, please consult with the chefs or waiters. It’s not nice getting all puffy in a setting of red.  

2) Did you know? Saffron in cooking or Saffron Crocus is actually a spice first cultivated in Greece and still holds the long-standing most expensive spice in weight. It is also commonly mixed up with its wildly common cousin, the meadow saffron? Also, saffron herbs are poisonous to a certain dosage! They’re in the Biryani! Oh no! Don’t worry too much though, it won’t be in a killing dosage for our adaptable human tummies. So, feel free to eat as much of it as you like!! :)

Location Address:

50 Circular Road, Singapore 049405 (Parking at UOB Plaza)

Tel : 6536 5025 Fax : 6536 0852 

Operating Hours:

Mon to Sat : 11am - 11pm (Last order at 10.30pm)
Closed on sunday

[Don’t be a careless one like me and go there stomping off in rage cause they aren’t open!]

Overview: Well, it’s time to settle the scoreboards here on my review. On a scale of 1 to 10. I would give this restaurant a nice 8. It’s definitely got my tummy wanting another nice visit for its delicious array of North Indian and I did realize Persian, Arabic, etc foods. Perhaps, I would review it again for the rest of its menu very soon. Can’t wait!! FYI, rates can always drop… or RISE! *big star eyes* 

Well, till next time,

 "wash your hands before you eat!"