Dining is an experience, one to be enjoyed and shared. Xperience Restaurant from Sofitel So Singapore does just that, thanks to the fresh, creative new take on French luxury by one of Singapore’s youngest executive chefs, Chef Trevor Paulo. Expect the best ingredients coupled with his love for local flavours and passion for theatrics all on one dining table in his new signature menu.
Starters
The gastronomic journey begins with his Spanner Crab (S$25) and Poached Sweet Prawns (S$26). Both were a beautiful play between savoury and sweet, showing Chef Trevor’s love for Japan’s obsession with umami – well, and all of us too.
Of the two, the latter won me over with its sweet mirin, sake and soy poached prawns. The aroma was inviting, and the textures of the succulent prawns matched with the fresh crunch of granny smith and baby radish carpaccio.
Mains
The main course is just as stellar. One bite and you might just agree with me, that the Beef Short Rib (S$38) has got to be one of life’s greatest pleasure. Just look at that juicy chunk of beef. It is so tender it falls off the fork if I so much as breathe on it.
If you’re a connoisseur of succulent, quality meat, then this mouth-watering Lamb Confit (S$38) dish is right up your alley. Caressed for hours in a luxurious layer of fat, each bite was a burst of flavours. It is accompanied by a selection of vibrant heirloom carrots and ginger carrot puree, reminiscent of Sunday roast. This is comfort food taken up a couple of notches.
Dessert
Desserts is where Chef truly played around with his love for theatrics. Starting off, we have the beautiful Chocolate Dome (S$24). Served with hot vanilla cremeux, the dome melts to reveal a delicious, delicious mess of bittersweet Araguani chocolate, chocolate sponge and a scoop of hazelnut ice cream.
Those wanting a little more refreshing end to the meal can go for the Textures of Meringue (S$22). This vibrant dessert features various flavoured meringues decorating a light, tart blend of persimmon sorbet, tomato jam and olive oil sponge.
Celebrations
And, if you’re really looking to impress, Chef Trevor knows how to put on a show. He brings the entire Xperience straight from the kitchen on your dinner table in Celebrations (S$100).
Set upon a metallic plane, he plates a visual feast of fruit purees, meringues and berries, laying the base for the ultimate surprise.
The surprise being a golden chocolate egg filled with all the sweet treats to satiate any sweet-tooth. A lucky diner will be asked to join in the fun to “let the ball drop” onto the plated feast, revealing a Willy Wonka-esque dream come true!
A Whole New Way to Xperience French Cuisine
Culinary Designer? While it threw me into a loop when Chef Trevor was introduced as such, all doubts were lifted the moment I had a spoonful of his Spanner Crab starter. The rest of the dishes? It just got better and better. For his new signature menu, he has taken luxurious French cuisine and turned it into a exceptional dining experience, theatrics and all, wowing even the most discerning diners.
Xperience Restaurant & Bar
Lobby Level, Sofitel So Singapore
35 Robinson Road, Singapore 068876
+65 6701 6800 | h8655@sofitel.com
