With a slew of new restaurants and dive bars opening shop in its vicinity, the Keong Saik Road neighbourhood has been buzzing with tonnes of action lately. The newest kid on the block is Olivia Restaurant & Lounge, a bright and airy Mediterranean eatery located in the new KēSa House complex.
Designed by Barcelona-based Lazaro Rosa-Violan, the restaurant was designed to transport you to the Mediterranean coastal city. Exposed whitewashed brick walls and terracotta floor tiles frame blonde wood furniture pieces nicely, while handmade ceramics and sculptures flown in direct from Barcelona further adds to the dynamic yet cosy ambience. But the most unique feature of the space has to be the open kitchen situated right in the centre of the restaurant, where diners are treated to a visual spectacle of all the behind-the-scenes bustle involved in the creation of flavours inspired by Barcelona.
The 75-seater space has been thoughtfully arranged into distinct areas that can accommodate the needs of a diverse demographic of diners. Regardless of whether you’re flying solo at the bar, having an intimate date night in one of the curved booths or celebrating with big groups of friends at their large wooden communal tables, diners are afforded privacy while basking in the warm hospitality typically found in a quintessential Spanish home.
Like most contemporary restaurants these days, the carefully-thought-out menu by award-winning chef and co-founder Alain Devahive blends traditional Barcelonan cuisine with updated renditions of familiar classics. From appetisers to starters, mains and desserts, Olivia uses hearty and honest flavours to channel the diversity and eclecticism of the cosmopolitan city. If you’re after something creamy and indulgent, the Homemade “Catalunya” Lobster-Avocado Roll ($29) is a must, which carries notes of umami and acidity from the ponzu and roe punctuating through rich avocado slices. Other highlights include the decadent Wagyu Striploin with Truffle Sauce & Confit Piquillo Peppers ($38) and the hearty Grilled Catch of the Day with Onions and Garlics ($108).
Beyond the delectable plates, Olivia also boasts an expansive selection of hand-selected Spanish and international wines that have been specially curated by former Michelin sommelier Miquel Sabria. Feeling adventurous? Take a pick from the “liquid art” section, which features bespoke concoctions like the Beautiful Melody ($18) – a refreshing cocktail that boasts fruity undertones, and Olivia’s signature Gin Me !! ($19).
Address
Olivia Restaurant & Lounge
55 Keong Saik Road
#01-03
tel: 6221 0522
