Kotuwa

Singapore, Singapore

Honouring his Sri Lankan heritage while simultaneously putting his own stamp on the country’s famously diverse cookbook has become a trademark of the chef behind Kotuwa, Colombo-born, Australia-trained Rishi Naleendra. Naleendra is also behind Singapore’s Cloudstreet and the former Cheek Bistro, which he’s recently reopened as wine bar, Fool. Housed within the Art Deco-style Wanderlust Hotel, the 2020-opened Kotuwa is a casual affair offering takeaway as well as table dining and serving a menu that's a love letter to Sri Lankan seafood. Crab is a star, appearing in rotis, croquettes and as a market-price special cooked with cumin, fenugreek, chilli and coconut; while Naleendra’s short eats (a kind of stuffed, fried samosa), curries and meat dishes all deserve exploration. The cosy dining room, with its brick walls and Persian rugs, is the kind of place where it would seem churlish to rush off without ordering dessert: a standout is the Watalappam tart made with coconut custard, jaggery, pistachio, candied orange and spices.

Key Information

• Tasting menu from $45
• Lunch: Sat – Sun Dinner: Weds – Sun
• 6569707838
• Visit Kotuwa's Website

Location

2 Dickson Road, Calling, Singapore, 209494