Go Round the World at CALI Novotel Singapore on Kitchener

Zulfadli

It’s amazing that there’s something new to write about, thanks to the recently opened restaurant, CALI, at Novotel Singapore on Kitchener.

Yesterday, I visited CALI to try it out, as it’s a new restaurant offering a variety of cultural flavors that are unmatched by other establishments.

Given my petite appetite, I could only try a few items, but their extensive menu offers options for everyone, whether you’re craving Chinese, French, American, or Caribbean cuisine. I decided to ask for their recommendations, and for appetizers, I had the Fiery Caribbean Shrimp Delight.

I’ve always underestimated non-Asian spicy food, but I was proven wrong this time. I had never tried salsa before, and having seen how some of my Western friends have a low tolerance for spice, I assumed salsa would be mildly spicy. To my surprise, I found myself perspiring as I ate it! Thankfully, the restaurant wasn’t too crowded at the time, or I would have looked ridiculous sweating away. But guess what? I cleaned the plate of every last bit of salsa — it was too good not to finish! If you’re a shrimp lover, this dish won’t disappoint.

For the main course, I had the Rich and Spicy Nali Bhuna. It’s served with a bowl of basmati rice and a slow-cooked lamb shank. The flavorful, aromatic gravy is indeed hot, but the real highlight was the lamb shank itself — tender, perfectly prepared, and free of any gamey taste.

After a lineup of spicy dishes, my palate was soothed by a curated selection of desserts — the European-Caribbean Fruit Fusion Dessert Platter. It includes ice cream, cut fruits, spiced banana cake, and a Macadamia Fudge Brownie. The dessert platter is perfect for sharing between two, especially if you’re going for the full course. It was a delightful way to end the meal.

Overall, since CALI is newly opened and relatively unknown, it’s an excellent spot for lunch or casual meetings, especially for groups from different cultural backgrounds. Not only can everyone enjoy their own cultural favorites, but they can also share these flavors with others under one roof without needing to visit a specialty restaurant.