Neon Pigeon

They're having a promo for their 10th anniversary, with select dishes and drinks going for just $10 - yes just $10, which is almost half-priced for some items!

Place was moody and vibey, great for a post-work gathering or even an evening date. We started off with the Tokyo Hummus ($12), which was made with edamame giving it a unique flavour different from the traditional chickpea. Topped with a layer of furikake and served with mini toasted bread slices, this was a great appetiser to start off the meal. Next were two $10 items we chose - the Unagi & Foie Gras Donabe and the Pork Aparagus Kushiyaki (2pcs). $10 for unagi and foie gras is really such a steal, an the dish did not disappoint at all. Delicious, with the sweet-savoury teriyaki-esque sauce, my only complaint would be that they could hold back a little with the sauce. On the other hand, the kushiyaki was just alright, and the pork tasted like salty bacon to me.

However, I was pretty disappointed by the charge of $3 per pax for water, especially since it was not made known to use at the time of ordering. The waitress asked if we wanted still or sparkling water, and we replied that we just wanted tap water to which she just said "ok" and did not inform upfront of the charge. I did not know until I saw the bill! And when I mentioned this to the staff, he just said something to the tune of "yes it's like that". No apologies, no clarifications, quite disappointing and ended off the meal on a poor note.

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Along with their brunch menu, there was this cocktail called ‘Boshi-Maker (S$20.00). This gin-based beverage also comprised ingredients such as Umeboshi (salted Japanese plums), blueberry, lemon and Hitachino White Ale, so the drink came across as refreshing, fruity and a wonderful start to a good meal.

Brunch was quite interesting at Neon Pigeon. While they have a menu with some mix of Japanese and Western mains, the most intriguing item on their list was The Duck Confit Ramen (S$20.00), which had limited servings available daily.

When the staff served the noodles, the first impression I got was more like Ramen in thick gravy (think Lor Mee), but at the same time the ingredients felt luxurious, with sliced Foie Gras and pink duck meat beautifully plated on top of the noodles. Digging in, I was excited by the flavours of the respective items, but I was also fascinated by how everything came together so well: rich but not too cloying.

Of course, one might not be full eating this, because the portion was not hearty (probably good things should also be taken in moderation), but that also gave us the perfect excuse to order more mains or appetisers for sharing.

One for the gram for the bright colours presentation. A Korean version of our chicken rice, the chicken was deep fried and served on a bed of rice with sesame crackers and pickled veg. Mixed all up together with the egg yolk and gochujang, it tasted creamy like a risotto filled with Asian flavours. The flavour was on a heavier side but satisfying and filling.

Looks can be deceiving and true enough for this unassuming dish. The edamane dip was unbelievably creamy, smooth and flavourable; and topped with furikaka for that unami flavour. Served with it was the "curry chips" that were light and crunchy, that elevated the flavour of the dish with a nice touch of spice. It was a very different flavour profile from the hummus I've had before and definitely must-order and must-have! 👍👍