Opened by The Astronauts Group, Ninja Bowl is the third brainchild of former 987FM radio deejay Darren Wee. Perhaps not the newest kid on the block by now, this hip dining joint situated along Duxton Road first opened its doors in April 2016, establishing a solid fan base since then with its hearty one-dish meals - an extensive range of vibrant Japanese-inspired grain bowls and unique all-day fusion brunch items. Geared towards providing healthy, fuss-free meal options to cater to the busy CBD workers seeking a quick bowl of nutrition during their short lunch hours, it is also the perfect spot of weekend brunch indulgences for the unconventional brunch or rice bowl go-getters.
A recent revamp of its menu features a whole new slew of exciting dishes to choose from, and patrons are bound to be spoilt for choice. The different types of bowls come carb-free with its default ingredients, and diners can choose to add on a bed of carbs of their choice, such as the ninja rice (+$2), orzo pasta (+$2), garden greens (+$2) or Quinoa (+$3) at an additional cost for a more filling meal.
Ushi 4.2/5
One of the bestsellers in the menu, the Ushi ($22) is a remake of a popular bowl that made its debut back in Sep 2016. It features slices of tender grass-fed marbled Australian tenderloin steak, glazed with fragrant truffle leek butter, a myraid of vegetables, and runny onsen egg to pack a good variety of textures and flavours to this bowl of goodness. With an add-on of Quinoa for just $3, it is the perfect option for those seeking a high protein meal.
Kabuki 4.2/5
The Kabuki ($16) comes with a whole maple mustard glazed smoked chicken leg confit and generous servings of vegetables, with the quintessential presence of an onsen egg to boot. The highlight of this dish – that huge slab of chicken leg boasts a beautifully crisp brown skin and tender juicy meat within. To round off the meal, I had the Orzo pasta for an additional $2, which is essentially short-cut pasta shaped like rice grains and tossed with honey, multigrain mustard, miso and chilli.
Torinosu 4.5/5
The Torinosu ($18) features a nest of crispy shrimp and vegetable tempura kakiage, accompanied by an onsen egg atop, together with a medley of vegetables and a bed of Ninja rice underneath. Slice into the egg, let that glorious runny yellow flow over, as you break the "nest" and mix all the ingredients together. A tad different from the aforementioned rice bowls, the Torinosu is not overly complicated at all, and all the elements are essential complements that gel together just right. This is one gem of a dish that is definitely worth trying.
Merry Melon 3.8/5
Last but not least, desserts to round off a perfect meal. The Merry Melon ($19) arrives in a huge block of brioche french toast, with a lightly browned toasted exterior and delicately plated with an assortment of accompaniments. It already constitutes as an aesthetic enjoyment on its own. Perhaps the french toast was not coated substantially with enough egg batter, it does not boast a soft pillowy texture, and leans slightly towards the stodgier side. Slathered with thyme shiso infused honey, and with the addition of fresh rock melons, watermelons, and a scoop of rock melon ice cream to boot, it contributes to a luscious sweetness of the dish, while the parma ham chips provide a strong hint of saltiness and smokiness to balance it off. Overall, a pretty decent dessert with a balanced salty.
With a strong focus on Japanese-inspired rice bowls, Ninja Bowl infuses a healthy twist to their menu prolific of creative offerings - also a refreshing change to the usual brunch dishes elseplace. Made al-la-minute to ensure freshness, I liked how the bowls can be lighter or heartier depending on personal preferences too.
Words and photos by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting
Ninja Bowl
15 Duxton Road
Singapore 089481
Tel: +65 62228055
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 930am - 730pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 6pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchid Hotel. At Orchid Hotel turn right onto Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road to the opposite side of Tanjong Pagar Road. Walk along Tanjong Pagar Road to Duxton Hill. Turn left onto Duxton Hill and then turn right on Duxton Road. Journey time about 15 mins. [Map]
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