Fans of the Sitcom F.R.I.E.N.D.S, you are in for a treat with the cafe Central Perk opened. We aren’t fans of this US Sitcom, nonetheless, we checked out this theme cafe for its ambience and its food.
The space is categorized into 3 dinning area; the cast, studio and al fresco. For fans of F.R.I.E.N.D.S, you might find familar icons or decor present in the cast. However, I identified with none.
But what attracts me was the kitchen. I later then knew that it was the kitchen of the character “Monica” in F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
Over at the menu, Central Perk offers a pretty wide range though the menu can be confusing for those who aren’t familiar with the sitcom. As every dish is either food that the characters love or it might be related to a scene in the show. In short, diners will find salad, soups, sandwiches, Mains, Pizza, Pasta, Sides and Desserts.
As we were still craving for the Alter Ego’s Tater Tots, we turned to the potatoes The Way Joey Likes ($10). It is a pan full of fried harsh browns. Indeed, Tater Tots, plain.
Heart Attack ($15) was the other side we ordered. Nothing impressive. In fact, we find the flavour wierd maybe contributed by the spinach or it’s the combination. We didn’t bother to pin point what went wrong as we didn’t want to take a second bite.
Requested for less garlic in Monica’s “Too Much Garlic” Aglio Olio ($28). Expecting it light, since it is Aglio Olio. Strangely, it turned out otherwise, perhaps the excess garlic was the cause. It was a simple garlicky pasta with enough salt. Saving grace was the fresh prawn.
With the impressive presentation of Key Lime Pie ($16) built anticipation and expectation. A pity, hope dashed at the first mouth. The key lime custard was too fluid and flavours taste artificial. Tart base was flat without any buttery flavour.
NAHMJ Verdict
Every dish at Central Perk, we felt there are room for improvement. At the current pricing, we are expecting more. We are certainly impressed with their attitude towards constructive feedback.
Central Perk
1 Magaine Road, Central Mall #01-01, Singapore 059567
Tel: +65 9025 2524
Website: http://www.centralperk.sg/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/centralperksingapore/
Opening Hours
Tuesday – Sunday 1000 to 2200 | Closed on Mondays
Getting There
By MRT:
- Northeast line – Chinatown or Clark Quay station
- Downtown line – Chinatown station
By Bus:
- Central Square along Havelock Road 51, 143, 174, 174e, 186
- Opposite State Court along Upper Cross Street 51, 143, 174, 174e, 186
- Opposite Hong Lim Park along Eu Tong Seng Road 2, 12, 33, 61, 63, 80, 197, 961, CT28
- Hong Lim Park along New Bridge Road 2, 12, 33, 54, 147, 190, CT28
- Peoples’ Park Centre along Eu Tong Seng Road 54, 124, 145, 147, 166, 190, 851
- Chinatown Point along New Bridge Road CT8, CT18
Rating: 6/10