Sexy little hideaway
Maggie Joan's is literally a hole in the wall.
It has a small door, with a discreet signboard, and is situated in a back alley behind Amoy Street.
Getting there is an adventure so make sure you get directions before you set off. On Club Street, look for Gemmill Lane. That should take you there, fingers crossed.
Maggie Joan's is created by the father-son duo of Glen and Daniel Ballis from Moosehead, and named after Daniel's grandmothers.
Like Moosehead, the food is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. But in terms of decor, Maggie Joan's is the sexier, more sophisticated sibling.
The food here - the kitchen is helmed by Oliver Hyde, formerly of Pollen - is simple but confident and gorgeously plated.
It's also dark inside, perfect for a romantic date.
FAVOURITE
My favourite dish is the roast Jerusalem artichoke & manchego ($8). The textures are lovely and the earthy flavours are seductive and delicious.
PRETTY, TASTY
The prettiest dish is the scallop carpaccio, peas & ham ($21) and it's one of the tastiest too. The pea puree is delicious and compliments the fresh scallops.
NO IMPRESSION
The one-bite egg, dukkah & saffron mayo ($6) is pretty but didn't leave an impression.
TENDER
The grilled Iberico pork jowl, prunes & cauliflower ($34) is another pleasing dish. The pork is cooked in a sous vide style for 12 hours, so you can imagine how tender it is.
TRANSFORMED
The lemon orange glaze brushed onto the yellowtail sashimi, carrots & brandade ($23) transforms the dish by brightening it up with a touch of crisp.
WHAT Maggie Joan's Dining & Bar
WHERE 110, Amoy Street (Entrance from Gemmill Lane)
WHEN Weekdays: Noon to 2.30pm, 6pm to 11pm, Saturday: 6pm to 11pm
CALL 6221-5564
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