Came across Cherki on social media recently; a new Peranakan fusion concept that had opened its doors fairly recently at Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre — for those unfamiliar with the location, the building is located behind the Singapore Chinese Orchestra building, and the eatery had seemingly replaced the now-defunct Déjà Brew Cafe. Operating as somewhat is a bistro bar, the food menu is split into sections comprising of “Small Plates”, “Rice/Noodles”, “Mains” and “Sharing Plates” — the establishment also serves up a wide variety of cocktails amidst other alcoholic beverages as well, with choices of non-alcoholic beverages revolving around mocktails only.

While the Truffle Itek Popiah that we have also had was more on the abstract side of things and is also a relatively interesting attempt on a fusion item, the Otah Chawanmushi was something that may resonate with those that are looking for a fusion item that is more relatable for its composition. Some may argue how the Otah Chawanmushi seems more like placing a Nonya element to steamed egg just for the fusion, but we found this to be quite decently executed given its composition. While I would have preferred a more punchy hint of rempah spices for the Otah, the mellowed flavours and spiciness seem to tie up with that of the clean-tasting Chawanmushi — found the textures of both elements to be consistent throughout as well; a proper fusion of both elements without the Otah causing a varying density to the overall mouthfeel of the item. The Chawanmushi also comes with other elements such as shrimp; those were pretty fresh and added a bite with a slight hint of natural sweetness to it.

While we did enjoy the Otah Chawanmushi and Truffle Itek Popiah, we did wish that they could do slightly more with items such as the Nyonya Herb Crusted Snapper — the fusion just didn’t seem strong enough for how it felt like a Western item that comes with “Peranakan fusion” because it is served with achar and blue pea rice (the secret blend of herbs seem to have lacked a Peranakan influence); perhaps a better approach might be to use a dry rempah spice rub with the herb crust instead. That being said, Cherki is an interesting dining option; albeit hidden in a lesser-known corner of the Central Business District, that would work well for drinks after work for the office folks in the area — pretty intrigued with their cocktail selection with options like “Pulut Hitam” and “Potpourri” amongst others in the menu.