High hopes for Clifford

Stepping in to the gorgeously tiled lobby of the Fullerton Bay Hotel, hopes are as high as the ceilings here for an unforgettable lunch. 

Incredible detail is paid in the swanky interior of Clifford. There's a sense of regality without the usual stiffness. The glass panelling which frames the riverside view and the CBD allows for just enough natural lighting to fill the restaurant with a certain sense of cheer. 

Service is impeccable. The staff are attentive and I must have had at least 3 wait staff come up and ask if we've placed our orders yet. Once seated, the water arrive promptly, served with a smile and we're off to a good start.

My appetiser: 

Utilising a well played mix of colours, the plating of the heirloom beetroot was fresh and inviting. It's so pretty I can't bear to ruin it. It's a bit like a mini experience on a plate with beetroot done in varying styles such as roasted and poached. From the chilled beetroot's natural sweetness paired with the tang of the vinegar to the crunchier version paired with a slightly salty cream cheese reduction, each bite is a delightful surprise. 

Alt appetiser: 

Hearty goodness in a bowl. It's a winner my dining partner says. And I'm inclined to agree. Given my distaste for onions, I rather enjoyed my spoonful of soup, the gruyere cheese was just the right amount of cheesy goodness to top it all off. I'd come back for this.

My main dish:

The confit was slightly dry for my liking but the mash was pure unassuming goodness that I scraped clean every bit of. It was creamy with a clean hint of truffle. Compared to the appetiser, the plating was simple and lacked colour. However the creamy mash paired with the confit was a delightful sensation in my mouth. Could be better but pretty good still.

Alt main:

The herbed crust and vegetables made for rather colourful plating which was pleasant on the eye. The salmon was cooked to perfection, with chunks flaking off easily and melting in the mouth. The mains were nothing to shout about but were fairly enjoyable.

Dessert:

The sorbet was refreshing and very good but was unfortunately overpowered by the compote which was too sweet and too sour at the same time. Beginning to think I should have opted for the molten chocolate. 

All in all, a very enjoyable lunch, the company was delightful, the ambience pleasant, the service impeccable, and the food a welcome change from my usual foodcourt lunches. 

Thumbs up for this one. I'll be back to try their regular menu soon!

Clifford@ Fullerton Bay Restaurant

80 Collyer Quay