LeVeL33 really needs no introduction.
But if you’re unfamiliar with this craft beer and dining destination in Singapore’s financial district, it’s not too late to plan for a visit. Besides being an award-winning rooftop concept, it is also known as the world’s highest urban microbrewery—with stunning views of Marina Bay to boot.
The upscale establishment’s relatively new executive chef, Jake Kowalewski, is no stranger to working inside kitchens built at dizzying heights. Prior to running the culinary team at LeVeL33, he helmed the now-closed Salt Grill & Sky Bar located at ION Orchard’s 55th floor.
When Covid hit, the Australian chef had to head back home down under for 14 months.
“These guys [LeVeL33] eventually approached me to see if I was interested to come back,” explained Kowalewski. “I said yes and everything fell into place.”
He’s currently focused on designing a new menu for the restaurant (which should be launching in March), and familiarizing himself with the “Contembrewing” cuisine the eatery is famed for. For those who aren’t well-versed with its beer-inspired fare, it’s simple to digest (pun fully intended): the menu integrates all the beer-making ingredients into its food.
“After they brew the beer and strain the grains off, we cook it and turn it into crackers or make a risotto,” he said. “The beer flavors are quite pronounced.”
Guests who attended Native’s exclusive 3-Course Beer-Pairing Dinner at LeVeL33 on February 8 indulged in some of chef Jake’s mouthwatering creations. He placed a lot of emphasis on creating dishes that pair well with its house brews, which helped bring out the best flavors in both the food and the beer.
Some of the featured plates included Hand-Cut Beef Tartare with blond lager pickles, In-House Koji Dry Aged Westholme Wagyu Tri-Tip with beer jus, and Spent Grain Valrhona Chocolate Tart with stout and caramelized chocolate ganache. The beer elements were carefully designed and incorporated into each menu item, which truly sets LeVeL33 apart from other restaurants.
“I think what we do here with the Contembrewing is quite unique. We’re the only ones in Singapore pairing beer with food so in-depth,” said Kowalewski. “I’m trying to focus on the food now as well, and bring to it another level when we change the menu.”
When we asked whether the craft beer, food, or the breathtaking views take center stage at LeVeL33, the chef hesitated to give a quick response. But in the end, it was an easy answer.
“It’s the whole package,” he said with a smile.
