Forrest

Mention Mandai and the first thing that comes to my mind is the zoo and the word "ulu". Never would I have expected to find any restaurants in the area (those in the zoo excluded). So imagine my surprise when I found out about a restaurant, Forrest, nestled in one of the Orchid plantations just off Mandai Road.

Located at the Orchidville Orchid plantation, Forrest caters mainly to private functions like weddings but walk ins are always welcome(provided they are not booked). Step into the restaurant and a totally different world comes into the picture. Flora and Fauna become an integral part of this rainforest themed restaurant, which is complemented by a greenhouse like roof to partially let in sunlight. There's no question about the heat though even in the afternoon as the whole place feels cool with the extensive air conditioning system. Tables are spaced far apart to give that relaxing and spacious feeling. Honestly, words don't do the place justice. You'll have to see it for yourself.

Tofu Treasure - Homemade Tofu with carrots and mushrooms, deep fried and served with sweet Thai chilli dipping - The tofu wasn't exactly as silky as I would have liked it to be, but it was a commendable effort nonetheless. The skin was a little crispy while the inside was relatively smooth. There was a nice slight pan fried taste to it which I personally liked. Couldn't really make out the carrots and mushrooms though.

Knuckleduster - Forrest's signature dish, the Knuckleduster, came highly recommended and the truth was, I was quite impressed by it. Not exactly the bowled over by it kind of impress, but more of the I certainly didn't expect it kind of impress, if you catch my drift. The skin was crispy to a crackle and the meat was tender, fibrous yet not overcooked, as evident by its reddish tinge. Only bone I had with it was that it was quite fatty under the skin, which basically throws any healthy ratings out of the window. On a positive note, the knuckleduster was meant for 2, but my gf and I had a hard time trying to finish it. Oh and the accompanying noodles were a little springy and tasted rather sourish from all the vinegar. Nice taste contrast though.

Chinese Pancake a La Mode with Raspberry Coulis - I ordered this dessert only because it sounded fancy and it was the only dessert which was available. The pancake tasted rather normal and the Raspberry Coulis was nothing more than red bean paste (tasted like it).

$33 for 2 pax in a serene and therapeutic environment such as Forrest is really quite value for money in my humble opinion. Add in the fact that the food is quite decent and service is good and its a clear winner (to me that is). No GST and service charge is definitely a plus here as well.

See all my pictures here