VIOS at One Raffles Quay is a modern Mediterranean grain bowl spot conceptualised by the family behind Blu Kouzina. Named after the Greek word for “life”, VIOS is the brainchild of Gigi Tsakiris, daughter of Blu Kouzina’s founders. Drawing from her family’s heritage and her knowledge of food systems and nutrition, VIOS is built around providing nutritious and nourishing meals for the busy individuals in the CBD.
The Greek 4/5
Each bowl begins with a wholesome base of grains or greens, layered with proteins, seasonal vegetables, and housemade dips and sauces prepared daily without additives or seed oils. Among the eight signature creations, I tried The Greek ($18.50), featuring grass-fed meatballs on a bed of organic bulgur, accompanied by harissa dip, tzatziki, a tomato and onion mix, diced cucumber, and Greek feta. The organic bulgur was nutty with a firm bite, providing a sturdy base for the boldly flavoured harissa and meatballs, which were well-seasoned, tender, and juicy with a satisfying bite. Freshness came through from the tomato-onion mix and crisp cucumber, while the tangy tzatziki tied the elements together, rounding out the bowl with balance and cohesion. Every VIOS bowl is finished with a generous drizzle of the Tsakiris family’s extra virgin olive oil, harvested from centuries-old groves in the Messinean Basin of Greece. These ancient trees yield koroneiki olives, prized for their high polyphenol content, which delivers antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits, and a peppery flavour lift.
Pulled Beef Wrap 3.5/5
There are also wrap options. I tried the Pulled Beef Wrap ($17.50), which features a Greek pita filled with grass-fed beef, tzatziki, and a tomato-onion mix. The beef, braised with sundried tomato, brought a welcome depth of flavour. However, the filling was overly wet, which diluted the tzatziki and left the wrap partially soaked. Still, the pita managed to hold together and contributed a gentle wheatiness that complemented the filling.
Tomato Focaccia 4.5/5
The lineup of bakes was sumptuous. I had the Tomato Focaccia ($6.50) and the Spanakopita, both of which were wholesome and delicious. The focaccia, served warm with its base soaked in olive oil and paired with an additional amount of the Tsakiris family’s extra-virgin olive oil, was one of the most flavorful I’ve had, especially with the sundried tomatoes generously strewn across the top, intensifying every bite.
Spanakopita 4.5/5
The Spanakopita was delicious with pronounced herbaceous notes and a well-proportioned balance of flaky pastry to savoury filling.
Aegean Glow, Salt & Sol
Drinks bring an interesting twist. I tried two refreshing concoctions - Aegean Glow ($6.50), a bright blend of citrus, cinnamon, and Greek herbs; and Salt & Sol ($6.50), a piquant mix of brine, lime juice, chilli, honey, sea salt, and chilli flakes.
For those who prefer to customise, DIY Bowl options are also available. On lighter days, the soups, mezzes, and sides would make appealing alternatives, which I would love to try someday.
Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.
VIOS
One Raffles Quay
South Tower
1 Raffles Quay
#01-02
Singapore 048583
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Wed: 830am - 730pm
Thu-Fri: 730am - 730pm
(Closed on Sat & Sun)
Direction:
1) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk straight down Central Boulevard Road to Raffles Quay Road. Turn right on Raffles Quay. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]
2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station.Take Exit I. Walk straight to Raffles Quay Road. Turn right onto Raffles Quay Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]
