The recently-revamped Shelter in the Woods looks brighter, yet the familiar comfort of a cosy log cabin still beckons one to enter, and to be greeted by wafting aromas
Going back to Shelter in the Woods after some time feels like returning to a cosy haven.
It is good to see that the good service of the staff and homeliness of the overall ambience still prevail. Most importantly, the question was how the food would be like with a brand new chef at the helm.
Michelin-Starred Experience
What’s interesting is that Shelter in the Woods’ new chef, Masashi Horiuchi, cut his teeth at Michelin-starred restaurants in Switzerland, France and the UK, for more than 20 years.
Prior to arriving in Singapore last year, Masashi-san had been Chef at the 2 Michelin-starred L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in London for five years.
Chef Masashi’s style is unique, being an amalgam of Japanese sensibilities and deft skills acquired from more than two decades of honing in traditional European gastronomy. As such, Shelter in the Woods offers classic European cuisine that is hearty and rustic yet underpinned by deep and refined flavours, reflecting diverse culinary knowledge as well as evoking a strong sense of comfort.
Starting Highlights at the Haven
The Creamy Corn Soup Trio, using Japanese corn that’s roasted, boiled and popped, was a refreshing and delightful start to the meal.
It was amusing to see (and taste) popcorn in the soup! The DIY Steak Tartare, using Black Angus beef, also brings a smile with the petit quail’s egg (with its tip cracked open) sitting atop.
For appetizers, Shelter in the Woods has a range of charcuteries and pâtés but one that stood out was the Charcuterie Duck a l’Orange. The sweet and zesty flavours of the fruit complement the duck well, and it is excellent to revitalise your palate or to perk you up after a long day.
The Mains & the Verdict
The best things at the new Shelter are from the ‘old’ rotisserie, such as the Rotisserie Rack of Lamb comprising an herb-encrusted four-rib New Zealand lamb rack and the Rotisserie Suckling Pig with rotisserie pineapple. The rotisserie truly elevates and enriches the deep, tasty flavours of both the crisp suckling pig as well as the juicy, fresh pineapple.
The Rotisserie Pineapple Crumble is also not to be missed, for dessert. There still remains a daily choice of Shelter’s Tarts and Pies, served with ice cream. The pretty-looking tarts include the Apple Tart, Fig Tart, Lemon Meringue Tart and Raspberry Clafoutis.
On the whole, it is an interesting dining experience. One thing that’s sorely missed, however, from the old Shelter in the Woods, is its range of delectable macerated rums. That was quite unique and set the establishment apart. Somehow, some way, they should consider bringing them back.
Shelter in the Woods, 22 Greenwood Avenue, Singapore 289218, Tel: 6466 6225
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