Situated along a quieter stretch of Lavender, Viva Lavender brings together modern European flavours, house-aged meats and a breezy, welcoming space that transitions nicely from bright daytime dining to a warm, intimate evening ambience. With a strong focus on charcoal grilling and a surprisingly robust tapas/appetisers selection, the restaurant also offers one of the more attractive weekday happy hour deals in the area.
Truffle Mushroom Croquette 3.5/5
Perfect as a starter to warm up the palate, Truffle Mushroom Croquette ($8 for 2 pcs) comes crispy on the outside and creamy within. The truffle is intentionally subtle, allowing the mushroom filling to stand out without being overpowering. A comforting, easy-to-like bite.
Gambas Al Ajillo 3/5
A classic Spanish dish - Gambas Al Ajillo ($22) featuring four shrimps and toast. The house-made chilli oil adds personality, but we wished for a more potent garlic punch and more of that sizzling olive oil base to mop up with bread. Still enjoyable but could be bolder in flavour.
Padron Peppers 3.5/5
Padron Peppers ($16) came in a generous portion, ideal for sharing. Mildly spiced, light cream sauce on the side and topped with shaved cheese. Works well as a snack between heavier dishes or with drinks. Simple but satisfying.
Charred Cabbage 3.8/5
One of the more memorable vegetable dishes is the Charred Cabbage ($16), where the wedges of cabbage are juicy inside, served with herb yoghurt and house chilli oil, and topped with crispy kale for texture. While delicious, smaller wedges might allow the charred flavour to develop even more deeply. Still a solid, well-balanced plate.
Spanish Vintage Chilled Striploin 3/5
Known for dry ageing and grilling their meats, we were recommended the Spanish Vintage Chilled Striploin ($42/300g). It was well-seasoned and delicious with the grilled garlic, but the cut leaned a little ‘veinier’ than ideal for us. That said, it showed enough promise that we’d gladly return for their Tomahawk next time.
Braised Lamb Shoulder 3.5/5
Fork-tender and deeply comforting, this Braised Lamb Shoulder ($36) comes with silky pomme purée and yoghurt. The flavours reminded my dining partner of a refined rendang, which is rich and aromatic. Best shared, as the dish becomes quite heavy after several bites.
Miso Black Cod 4.5/5
A standout for me is the Miso Black Cod ($45) - buttery, silky, and melts instantly - complemented by a luscious tobiko beurre blanc that adds brininess and depth. A dish we would order again without hesitation.
Saffron Risotto with Hokkaido Scallop 4.5/5
Another favourite of the night is the Saffron Risotto with Hokkaido Scallop ($38), which was exceptionally fresh, and the ponzu pearl rice carries beautiful umami with each spoonful. A luxurious, well-executed entrée.
Hot Yuzu Margarita and Negroni
Espresso Martini and Mimosa
Viva Lavender runs a Monday–Thursday Happy Hour (4:30-6:30pm):
• 1-for-1 cocktails from $15
• Housepour wines at $10/glass
• Beer Bucket at $35 for 5 bottles
We tried four cocktails, including their Hot Yuzu Margarita, Negroni, Espresso Martini and Mimosa, and all were surprisingly well-balanced. Definitely worth stopping by early for drinks.
Viva Lavender strikes a balance between cosy neighbourhood charm and polished modern European dining. While a few dishes could deliver a punchier flavour profile, the seafood plates and lighter tapas truly shine, making it a spot worth returning to, especially with their generous weekday Happy Hour.
The restaurant also caters well to private events and group bookings, offering two private sections: a contemporary front bar area ideal for smaller, social gatherings and a warm, semi-private rear dining space suited for seated meals or intimate celebrations. Both areas are available with a minimum spend requirement, providing flexibility depending on the group size and occasion.
Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.
Viva Lavender
161 Lavender Street
#01-02/03/04
Singapore 338759
Website
Nearest MRT: Bendemeer (DT Line), Lavender (EW Line)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 230pm, 430pm - 1030pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 1030pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Bendemeer MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road at the traffic junction of Lavender Street and Kallang Bahru. Turn right and walk down Lavender Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]
2) Alight at Lavender MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to the bus stop at Lavender MRT station (Stop ID 01311). Take bus number 133 or 145. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to Foch Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]
3) Alight at Lavender MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Horne Road. Walk down Horne Road. Turn right onto Tyrwhitt Road. Walk down Tyrwhitt Road. Turn left onto Lavender Street and walk down Lavender Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 15 minutes. [Map]
