Nestled in a quiet corner of The Grandstand lies the newly relocated Kult Kafe. This half covered, half al-fresco venue proves a quiet contrast to its previous location in the buzzy Emerald Hill. The five-year old establishment was a popular spot amongst the local community for good food, good drinks, and good vibes.
While it’s tucked away, the first thing we thought as we stepped into its new premise was how colourful it was. Keeping in line with its previous theme, psychedelic murals by local artist Soph O lend a futuristic yet retro vibe to the food-and-drink premise.
At the same time, the overarching atmosphere here was relaxed and unrushed. The indoors area, illuminated by neon lights and wooden decals, was much more dimly-lit. We much preferred the bright, airy al fresco area.
Affectionately named “Kultails”, the cocktails here all have a uniquely local twist. We tried the Kult Julep, a refreshing blend of kaffir lime leaves swizzled with homemade gula melaka and a spritz of lime. I had mine served with rum, as per the bar manager’s recommendation. The sweet concoction proved dangerous — the flavours masked the alcohol, but that doesn’t mean they are one to skimp on it — it’s definitely there!
Bloody Belachan brings an Asian twist to a well-known Western favourite, the Bloody Mary. Instead of tabasco — well, you may have guessed it — belachan is added to the mix. Definitely worth a try, if you ask me. The drinks are available in mocktail form as well, so even if you don’t (or can’t) drink, you won’t be left out of the fun.
On to the main event: the food. The Argentinian-inspired menu features a smorgasbord of delights, from the likes of meat platters, burgers, pitas, and more.
We got to sample one of Kult Kafe’s signature menu items, the Pita Fries. Featuring deep-fried pieces of pita bread served with a garlic aioli, the fried morsels of bread proved extremely addictive — we couldn’t stop eating them. If you like your fries extremely crispy, you’ll be sure to enjoy this creation.
We were also treated to a meat platter. I mean, just how delightful does this assortment of items look? Meat-lovers are sure to enjoy this offering. Served with a variety of sides and sauces and bursting with colours, this platter was a glory to behold.
Featuring steak, pork sausage, chicken thigh, and lamb patty, this platter would be any meat-lovers’ dream come true. The steak was tender and had good flavour to it, without being overly jelat. You could taste a delicate char. The meat paired nicely with the accompanying salsa verde and salsa. However, we did find the lamb patty on the drier side. Nonetheless, it was very much a belly pleaser.
Once the pandemic situation settles down, there are plans to use the outdoor area for live barbeques! How fun is that?
We would have loved to sample more, but at this point we were simply stuffed. Some other interesting menu items we eyed include the Pita Churros, served with a generous sprinkling of sugar and chocolate sauce, the Angus Steak & Salsa Verde Pita, another signature menu item, as well as the Roasted Curried Cauliflower Pita.
We were afraid the al-fresco area would get a little hot and humid, as it does on our sunny island. Thankfully, the premise was littered with some pretty high-powered fans and the occasional breeze. I could see nothing better than whiling my weekend away here, with a cocktail in hand, munching on some of those pita fries. Fur babies are very much welcome here, and we don’t see why any furry friends wouldn’t enjoy themselves.
Perhaps it may be a little out of the way, but it has its loyal customers coming back. I wouldn’t be surprised if people specifically travel here to scout out its offerings — surrounded by greenery, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is definitely the place to be if you’re looking for an enjoyable spot to kick back and hang out.
Kult Kafe
Address: 200 Turf Club Rd, 01 The Grandstand, 19B, Singapore 287994
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 3:00 pm to 10:30pm
Contact: 9389 2185
