Have heard about Runes’ latest outlet at Biopolis Street — the cafe takes up a shop space located in one of the lobbies of the headquarters of Wilmar International Limited, and is open to the public. While Runes’ first outpost at Lau Pa Sat does not serve hot food, their latest outlet here do serve up proteins, sandwiches and salad bowls that seem to be intended more for takeaway operations (despite having quite a well-sized dine-in space). For those who may not be in the know, Runes is a concept from the same folks behind Glyph Supply Co. and Dough (yes, the “Korean-inspired” bakery at CHIJMES).

Opting for the Salmon, the proteins for the day were listed on the menu to come with broccoli and potatoes usually — they had replaced broccoli with pumpkin on the day of my visit as they had run out of broccoli when I had visited them for late lunch (around 2pm plus). Served in disposable ware, I actually found the portion of salmon to be pretty generous — considering how this bowl costs $14, at least we were not served a slab as measly as other places may do. Also particularly enjoyed how the salmon does carry its distinct flavour here that is pretty undisturbed by the other elements, even though it does come with a slightly-charred slice of lemon for a citrus-y tang. I am also a sucker for salmon served with skin-on that comes crisp — the one here certainly ticked that off the check list without any dispute. The roasted potatoes were decent; pretty clean-tasting without being overly seasoned in salt, whilst being chunky yet soft — carried a soft bite. The same can be said about the pumpkins, which also added a natural sweetness to the protein bowl.

Unlike Runes at Lau Pa Sat which seems more to be like a coffee stand rather than an actual cafe, their latest outlet at Biopolis does present itself like a full-fledged cafe intended for the office folks around Biopolis who are looking for clean, healthy meals in a comfortable environment away from the crowds — especially given its location which is more in the outskirts of one-north. A spot for a conducive environment to get some work done, or just to soak in those idyllic vibes around.