Nestled on the second floor of the Zouk complex is Capital Kitchen, a pop-up dining experience by Zouk Group. Catered to working professionals and those with a love for fine-dining, Capital serves up delicious Western and Asian delights, and sometimes it is a delectable blend of both. It is also Zouk Group’s fourth concept that comprises a plush seating area, dance floor, an island bar, and another intimate cocktail bar, Queens.
A stroke of genius? Probably. I for one would never have expected Zouk to survive after the government doubled down on their COVID-19 regulations, shutting down any form of nightclubs and karaoke establishments. This has caused many businesses to shut their doors, but Zouk adapted and emerged stronger with its pop-up dining concept set against the luxurious backdrop of Capital Lounge.
It is unknown when Singapore’s nightlife pilot will officially start and allow clubs to open again, but Zouk does not seem to be worried about that. Capital Kitchen is now thriving and bustling with up to 100 pax per night, and it does not plan to stop anytime soon. Take note that they operate from Wednesdays to Saturdays, 5pm to 11pm.
Let’s take a look at the dishes that are cooked up by their RedTail kitchen. Be sure to pair any of their dishes with their wide variety of wines, spirits, or sakes for the best experience.
To start off, a great appetiser would be the Truffle Flatbread ($20) which is great for sharing as well. Topped with button mushroom, truffle sauce, and mozzarella cheese, the Truffle Flatbread is a great vegetarian choice and is generous with the truffle flavour. It reminded me of a mini pizza, but don’t worry, it is not as filling.
Next up is a dish that is very much East Meets West, and a favourite of Zouk’s CEO, Andrew Li! @Liski_li’s Fiery Famberi Aglio Olio ($25) is a must-try and is arguably Capital Kitchen’s signature dish. The recipe is given by the CEO himself, and the aglio olio is paired with fresh tiger prawns, chili, garlic, tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil. It is not your usual aglio olio, but I assure you that it tastes just as appetising.
If you’re looking for a safer option that also satisfies your local cravings, the Signature Broth Congee ($15) should be right up your alley. How often do you see congee being served with scallop and roasted duck? To make the dish even better, it is also topped with prawn, carrots, mushrooms, and spring onions, coming together as a comfort dish. The broth is savoury, and it is known as a favourite of those who regularly frequent RedTail Bar.
Do remember to leave room for dessert. Their Paparch Burnt Cheesecake ($15) may look a bit pricey, but it is worth every dollar. This is the result of Capital Zouk’s collaboration with Paparch, a home-based business selling basque burnt cheesecakes. Light, fluffy, and with a molten centre that is to die for, it is an amazing way to end off the meal. The Paparch Burnt Cheesecake will even tempt you to lick the plate clean (I know I almost did!). This trending molten centre cheesecake is constantly sold out on their website, proving exactly how good it is. If you visit Capital Zouk without having the Burnt Cheesecake, it’s basically a sin.
Pairing your dishes with a glass of wine, spirit, or sake is a must. You can try any of their bottled cocktails ($68 each) with flavours that range from assam guava, teh peng, and milo gao, or you can request for any of their specialties. If you go on Wednesday, it is also Ladies’ Night, where you can enjoy two complimentary drinks! Choose from their house pours or specially-selected cocktails that include Spiced Collins and Glasgow Sunshine. You can also enjoy $10++ house pours all night and a $20 voucher for your next visit.
Take note that the minimum age requirement is 18 years and above to dine here. More information about reservations can be found here.
Address: 3C River Valley Road, Clarke Quay, Block C, #01-06, The Cannery, Singapore 179022
Opening hours: Wednesday to Saturday 6pm–10.30pm
Contact: 9006 8793
