Au Petit Salut

Nestled along Jalan Merah Saga is a charming breed of restaurants that are quickly changing the scene of this once sleepy stretch of old shophouses. Joining the ranks of casual mid-scale dining here is Au Petit Salut, an offshoot of the better known Salut in downtown Tanjong Pagar. Does it have what it takes to wear the same badge as its more popular sister? The four of us decide to find out!

Our first impression of the place - Homely. - A stark contrast from the poshier Salut. The ambience is excellent. A perfect setting for a romantic night out. For those who prefer to enjoy the cool night breeze, there is the option of al fresco dining. The list of entrees is quite extensive. We decide to have a go at the traditional appetizers - escargots and foie gras. We are also happy to accept the waitress' recommendation of Baked Portabello Mushroom and Grilled Marinate Baby Octopus. While waiting for our entrees, we are served delightful warm walnut bread.

The Grilled Marinate Baby Octopus is a hit. It is grilled to just the right consistency - resilient and very palatably served on an avocado salad with an excellent dressing of balsamic vinegar and olive oil - very appetising indeed. The classic burgundy snails baked with garlic butter are a tad rich as an appetiser but it is nothing too extraordinary. Their signature Baked Portabello Mushroom is a must-try. The huge mushroom cap is stuffed with deliciously sauteed forrest mushrooms and mozzarella, and served on a bed of rocket salad. It is delightfully tasty without being overpowering. But the Foie Gras takes the cake, literally. Served atop corn cake, Banyuis wine and orange reduction, it is a "die, die must try" dish.

Feeling satisfied, we are ready for the main course. As with all French food, the presentation doesn't disappoint and is a feast for the eyes.

The Pan-fried Veal Medallions with Macadamia Nuts Crust draws a mixed response. The veal is tender and well complemented by the dry black cherries jus. But as for the dry linguine, well, --instant noodles come to mind. Otherwise, it is a tempting main course.

The Pan-Seared Duck Breast, served with potato pancake & salad is a slight letdown Although the duck breast is nicely roasted, the raspberry vinegar jus is a little too sweet and could not complement the flavour of the duck.

On the other hand, the Grilled Salmon Tournedos is a song in our mouths. The creamy sea urchin sauce is very smooth and harmonises well with the salmon. A must-try for salmon critics and lovers alike!

Although their menu is periodically changed, the Roasted Rack of Lamb is consistently featured. Its popularity withstands the change. The lamb chops are drizzled with rosemary jus and served with delicious accompaniments of mashed potatoes and ceps and steamed kailan. The meat is well marinated and tenderly cooked. However, don't expect a rack of lamb or you will be disappointed. The portion is small - 2 pieces to be exact.

The grand finale of a meal here is definitely the dessert. Almost a cult status here. We fall for the Assortment of Cakes and Tarts for 2 persons, the Warm Almond Pudding and the Wild Strawberries and Blueberries Crème Brulee. All the desserts are heavenly-we guess they must have a dessert angel toiling in the kitchen. We love the Crème Brulee, which is not too sweet, just the right taste that keeps us longing for more. The Warm Almond Pudding is masqueraded somewhat as a souffle, but just a lot tastier. The berries in the pudding are a lovely highlight. The dessert sampler includes pastries such as profiteroles (cream puffs with a fancy accent, if you must), apple pie and tiramisu. The one pastry that we really love is the Praline Parfait made with fresh apple and sultana sauce. It is effortless eating two portions of this.

Although it is a quiet evening, credit must be given for their service. This complete meal averages S$60 a person, excluding wine. The charming al-fresco and smart casual atmosphere is a good dinner lure or simply a place to head over for an after dinner sweet fix.

by Eugene Lim and Harold Ma

Where:	Au Petit Salut Blk 44 #01-54 Jalan Merah Saga, Chip Bee Gardens Singapore 278116 Tel: 4751976
When:	Open Daily: 11:30 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. (Mon - Fri) 8 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. (Sat - Sun)
Food Rating:	Excellent
Desserts Rating:	Excellent