Our private dining exploration this round brought us to Cutlery Optional Private Dining by Vasunthara Ramasamy, a contestant from MasterChef Singapore Season 2. Specialising in South Indian cuisine, her home dining concept stood out to us, as most private dining experiences in Singapore lean heavily towards Peranakan or Chinese cuisine. This was one we had been especially looking forward to.
Plantain Chips & Chutney 3.8/5
We started the evening with Plantain Chips & Chutney, a light and crispy bite made addictive with the aromatic and spice-laden chutney. A simple yet impactful appetiser that teased the palate for what was to come.
Coconut Toddy Thosai 4.5/5
Malabar Chicken Curry 4.8/5
The Malabar Chicken Curry was a highlight. The chicken was tender, soaked in a robust curry brimming with depth and fragrance. What elevated the dish further was the freshly made Coconut Toddy Thosai which was soft, fluffy, and carrying a beautiful hint of coconut. Perfect for mopping up every last bit of curry.
Spicy Fried Fish Fry with Coconut Topping 4/5
Next came the Spicy Fried Fish Fry, crisp on the outside and moist within. The addition of coconut topping added a welcome lift in both flavour and texture.
Pork Fry 4.2/5
The Pork Fry reminded us of Chinese sio bak, yet with an unmistakable Indian twist. Crispy, succulent, and deeply savoury — it was addictive enough to keep going back for seconds.
Prawn Green Mango Curry 5/5
The Prawn Green Mango Curry emerged as one of my favourites of the evening. Large, succulent prawns were paired with a mild, balanced curry. The fruity tang of green mangoes complemented the natural sweetness of the prawns, making this dish stand out.
Mix Vegetable Thoran 4/5
To refresh the palate from the richer dishes, the Mix Vegetable Thoran was perfectly timed. Crunchy and light, it provided a nice balance to the heavier curries and roasts.
Crab Roast 4.5/5
Another memorable dish was the Crab Roast. Unlike the familiar Singaporean renditions of chilli crab, black pepper crab, or salted egg yolk crab, Vasunthara’s version showcased a spice-forward, aromatic profile that paired beautifully with the crab’s sweetness. A refreshing take that still held its own against our beloved local styles.
Mango Ice Cream 4.2/5
The meal concluded with Mango Ice Cream. Bursting with the intensity of ripe mangoes, it was refreshing and vibrant. It almost like eating the fruit itself. A fitting end to a flavourful journey.
Cutlery Optional Private Dining is a rare gem in Singapore’s private dining landscape, offering authentic South Indian flavours with personal touches from Vasunthara. It’s a feast that bridges familiarity and discovery, making it an experience well worth seeking out.
Cutlery Optional Private Dining
Ang Mo Kio Ave 9 / Yio Chu Yang
Nearest MRT: Yio Chu Yang (NS Line)
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