If you’re visiting the Gillman Barracks in Singapore, Hopscotch offers a place to get some food after a tour of some of Singapore’s past history.
The Ambience, Service and Staff
Hopscotch has a small indoor dining area with about 9 tables, and an enormous alfresco area. We had made a reservation through Quandoo (use the referral code: DEBASHIS5259JNW for new sign-ups). The staff are friendly and attentive, and had us seated quickly. We were given a choice of a standard table that was at the edge of the alfresco area, or a high table near the edge of one of the buildings (which we chose). The Menus are really cool, bound in leather and graphically illustrated. It was a pleasant evening, and the restaurant had music playing at a level that was low enough to enjoy while having a conversation. We were served with water immediately, and the staff came back shortly to take our order.
The Food
We ordered a Hendrick’s Gin and Tonic and a Coke Zero for our drinks, and went with went with the XO Sticky Back Ribs and the Black Garlic Ribeye Steak for our mains. Shortly after we ordered, the staff came back to tell us that the waiting time for the food was going to be an hour which took us slightly aback, so we ordered a starter of onion rings, which they were nice enough to bring out in 10 minutes. The portion of the onion rings was generous to take care of two adult diners as we waited for our mains.
The drinks came out soon after. They do have a happy hour; the Hendrick’s G&T is a premium pour.
Our mains came out — not after an hour, but after 30 minutes — which all things considered, was a good outcome. The steak led the way. It was well prepared medium rare and presented tastefully on a flat, slate platter with a garlic mash and a mushroom ragout. The ribs came out a few minutes later. They were cooked beautifully – slightly crispy on the outside, and the meat fell off the bone with very little effort. It was slightly sweet without being overwhelmingly so. It was served with prawn crackers and Nonya achaar with a peanut sauce. Portions were generous.
The Price Point
We spent just under $90 for our meal which was was a reasonable price for the portions, and the location.
The Final Verdict
Hopscotch offers a nice place to dine when visiting the Gillman Barracks. Their alfresco area is huge and is dog friendly (we saw a table with a large dog). They keep their music at a decent level. Their service staff are friendly and attentive. This is a good place to have dinner after a tour of the barracks, particularly on a nice evening.
Address: 45 Malan Rd, Singapore 109455.
Phone: +65 6339 0633.
Website: https://www.hopscotch.sg/
