There seems to be quite a trend for indie grocery these days to include a cafe or dine-in element — Surrey Hills Grocer being a really good example of an establishment that does just that. Walking around Joo Chiat after our visit to 233 Banh Mi the other day, we found out about Bleu — a seafood grocer retailing gourmet meat and seafood at 175 Joo Chiat Road that had opened its doors in late 2022. Most of its space is dedicated for the retail element of the concept — so much that there isn’t exactly a proper dine-in area that is dedicated to the bistro element itself; there are only three tables that seats two pax each, with two tables being located at the back of the shop and one table being located at the front of the shop. The food menu at Bleu consists of some sharing plates, signature dishes, rice bowls, pasta and protein — most of the dishes featuring seafood elements that showcases the produce that they have brought in via their grocer, though there are some non-seafood dishes such as that of the Beef Steak that is listed in the Proteins section of the menu, as well as crowd pleasers such as Truffle Fries. There is no specific menu dedicated to beverages that is available at Bleu, though one can easily pick up something that is being retailed in the display fridge there.

Skimming through the menu on the seafood items which they have to offer, we found ourselves going for the Miso Cod; the dish is being described in the menu to come with elements such as French Cod Fish and Miso Sauce — the slab of fish also comes with bonito flakes being sprinkled over the top, as well as a wedge of lemon and garden salad on the side. The French Cod Fish is supposedly the highlight of the show here, considering how it does seem to be the intention behind those whom have created the dine-in menu to showcase the freshness of the produce that they have at Bleu. If anything, the French Cod Fish was actually pretty fresh — we liked how juicy and moist the slab of fish was; all that whilst being tender and flaky. Being cod fish, the texture was sufficiently firm, yet easy to chew through — it also carried an inherent sweetness that was just so alluring and good to have on its own as well. With the Miso Sauce atop, the Miso Sauce adds a hint of bean-like earthiness that compliments the fish’s natural sweetness without overwhelming it, while the bonito flakes atop adds on to the umami factor of the dish. Overall, a very thoughtful pairing of flavours that would actually highlight the quality of the produce used; all that done with great execution and is quite an experience to have in a grocer setting.

Bleu is not an establishment that is primarily set for dine-in; that being said, it does seem that they have placed in a lot of thought and effort to create the dishes that highlights the produce that they are retailing — a great way to educate consumers on the various types of fish that they have to offer, as well as to suggest the different dishes that can be done with them without much fuss; all that whilst showcasing the freshness and quality that they have to offer. If anything, this approach does seem more like an all-rounded approach as a grocer, providing the shopper with a multi-sensory experience whilst shopping within their premises. We had also given their Fish Burger a try; the Fish Burger being one of their signature dishes which features elements such as Red Grouper, Brioche Bun, Cheese and their Homemade Tartare Sauce — the fish is interestingly done in a way that replicates that of Fish & Chips; seemingly coated with crisp beer-infused batter. The overall product being one that is simple, yet highlights the freshness of their Red Grouper — again moist and flaky inside considering how it has been deep-fried and covered in a batter; the batter being delightfully crisp and free from grease, which we found to be very well-executed. Prices of the main dishes on their food menu may be a little bit on the higher side for some, especially considering how the portion sizes aren’t quite meant for a full meal — the prices range from $16.80 for their signature items such as the Fish & Chops and Fish Burger, all the way to $48.80 for the Grilled Lobster; most items being priced in the sub-$20 category. Still, Bleu is a spot that we would highly recommend a visit for those who love their fish and seafood dishes; no doubt not a spot that is meant for a proper dine-in experience, but one which we found to be an eye-opening experience that is also satiating!