Shelter in the Woods: For the true French cuisine lovers

Let’s get this straight, Shelter in the Woods is nothing like any other French restaurant for two reasons. First, they boast of an acclaimed Japanese chef who has brilliantly mastered French cuisine, and second, they serve up delectably made and wholesome rustic French dishes that have actually become hard to find elsewhere.

The tavern-style interior features wooden tables and chairs and is full of bespoke details such as kettles, barrels and pinecones. But what would a hunting lodge be without a stunning deer head trophy? Which is why the animal centerpiece adorns the wall above the fake fireplace. Besides the carefully designed space, here the main attraction lies in the large red rotisserie, which sees large joints of beef, pork, and chicken. Rotisserie is a traditional manner of cooking meat that keeps it tender and juicy. Today it is becoming rare to find food prepared this way, which makes Shelter in the Woods a bit more interesting.

While there, we kicked off the dinner feast with a homemade platter of pâtés (SGD33++) and pork rillettes (SGD16.50++) with condiments and baguette. While rillettes can sometimes be too fatty, here the meat was packed with flavours. Nevertheless, the most spectacular piece was ‘pâté en croûte’ (SGD18++). From the traditional cut to the golden crust, it was sheer perfection! Once you make the first cut, it’s a foodie’s delight right there with the herbs, spices and pistachios ready to tickle your taste buds. At this point, you’ll need to order a glass of red wine if you’ve not already done so.

Another starter that stood out was the ‘creamy corn soup trio’ (SGD15) that was sweet and nutty, smooth and crispy – a great way to whet your appetite. For suckling pig amateurs, this crispy delicacy, presented with colourful notes of pineapple, gravy and onion, can be ordered as an individual portion (SGD35++) too. You also have the option to pre-order the whole pig (SGD300++) at least 24 hours prior to your visit and regale with friends and family at the communal table.

Now for the main delight, there’s the menu straight from the rotisserie. We truly reveled in the classic yet timeless chicken with herbs, and baby potatoes with mellow garlic cooked with the skin (starting SGD21++). Though a simple dish, it was well executed – moist as you would expect. For a fancier dish, the lamb of rack coated with an herb crust and still pink inside will be a good choice. Nevertheless, the rotisserie is not the only option as Shelter in the Woods has crafted a luscious hearty seafood casserole as well (SGD39++) which includes a mix of fish and seafood baste in a rich broth with fresh and crisp vegetables.

Finally, desserts can either ruin or cap off your meal elegantly, so we tend to always be a little anxious. Here, we suggest going with the apple of chocolate tart as it’s simple, good and light – no doubt your dining experience will round up beautifully.

So even though the venue veers slightly off the city center, Shelter in the Woods is worth the effort.

Shelter in the Woods | 22 Greenwood Avenue | Tel: 6466 6225

Céline Manoukian