Earle Swensen’s (Jem)

Though the Ice-Cream at swensens have always been addictive to me and the legendary earthquake a big hit for birthday celebrations, I was here on a sunday afternoon not for anything sweet but because I hear that they are bringing back the free-flow salad bar and boy was the spread good.

At level 3, next to the corridor towards the toilet, it can get a little crowded at the entrance but the restaurant has got ample space and seating arrangement is good for a solo quick lunch or noisy softball team. We were shown to our table shortly after indicating our desire to dine in at the entrance counter and while we weave through the other diner's tables, we noticed the main courses that were ordered were full sized and of a pretty good portion. A little more than what a lady can eat, as such we tried to order smaller mains as we would love to try everything on the free flow salad counter.

An all American beef burger (S$17.90) and a minced beef cottage pie (S$19.90) was the mains we ordered and with every main ordered we get to enjoy the free flow salad bar.

The all american beef burger is made up of the regular cheese, sauteed onions, pickles and beef patty with 2 slabs of burger covers and chunky chips by the side. The patty is juicy and pretty thick however a little over cooked. The minced beef cottage is a delicious moist beef covered by a layer of mash on the top baked till golden brown. Creamy and savoury, a good mixture of the crusted top with moist and tangy minced beef. Made pretty well but we expected a little more herbs and spices that will bring out the WOW factor in this dish.

The buffet bar is a very pretty and clean looking counter that serves up a good array of greens and crispy vegetables. I spotted some really nice stuffs like olives, strawberries, melons, pineapples and various sauces ranging from asian light soy based dressing to thick and creamy cheese sauce. Love the different noodle and pasta salads available, premixed and the fruit salad is also a tasty option if you want something easy to go down after a heavy meal. Crispy deep fried stuffs are also available. Wanton skin fried till golden brown and potato chips add some crisp to you salad and crunchy lightweight round cheese biscuits are also available. The buffet counter is a good mix of everything and I could almost just went for salad alone as a meal. Good spread and thanks for bringing back the salad buffet with such a good variety to choose from.

Location: 4/5 (connected to Jurong East Mrt Station) Service: 3.5/5 (friendly and efficient, topped up my water every halfway) Food Quality: 4/5 (fresh and made pretty well) Food Selection: 4/5 (Good selection on the menu with a good deal of desserts to choose from. The salad bar just adds on the thrill) Cleanliness and Ambience: 4/5 (The place is generally clean and though the seats are quite regular but they put an effort in trying to make the environment as cosy as possible with paintings and some wall art)

Will I return: Yes

Will I bring my friends: Yes