As Singapore celebrates its diverse culinary landscape, Merci Marcel, a beloved French dining destination, adds another remarkable chapter to its story with the opening of its fifth location at Robertson Quay. Aimed at enhancing the riverside dining experience, this new venue brings an elevated dining concept, where modern French cuisine meets exceptional hospitality. In collaboration with the renowned French chef Bruno Ménard, this establishment showcases a menu that expertly blends traditional French flavors with contemporary culinary innovations. Let’s explore how Merci Marcel at Robertson Quay promises to deliver a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
A New Chapter in the Merci Marcel Legacy
Founded in 2017, Merci Marcel has long been recognized for its artisanal approach to French dining. Led by founders Antoine Rouland and Marie-Charlotte Ley, the group has grown from strength to strength, offering a fresh take on modern French cuisine. The addition of the Robertson Quay location marks an exciting milestone, bringing their distinct culinary philosophy to one of Singapore’s most vibrant waterfront destinations.
Located in a beautifully restored 19th-century warehouse, the new venue offers a stunning setting, with the restaurant’s coastal decor evoking the charm of the French Riviera, while complementing the modern vibrancy of Singapore’s riverside lifestyle. The architecture, with original archways and an outdoor terrace, creates the perfect atmosphere for intimate dinners or large celebratory gatherings.
With this new location, Merci Marcel continues to honor its commitment to refined ingredients, warm hospitality, and a focus on celebrating life’s simple pleasures, whether that’s through sharing a delightful meal or enjoying a memorable moment by the river.
Meet the Master of French Culinary Arts
At the heart of this exciting venture is Chef Bruno Ménard, whose collaboration with Merci Marcel takes the dining experience to new heights. With over 30 years of experience in French cuisine, Chef Ménard has gained recognition across Asia for his expertise in blending traditional French culinary techniques with modern influences. His work has helped shape the menu at Merci Marcel Robertson Quay, ensuring that every dish reflects his mastery and respect for French gastronomic traditions.
Chef Ménard expresses his enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting, “What drew me to this partnership was the strong identity of Merci Marcel and their genuine commitment to hospitality. Together, we focused on the essentials that make French cuisine truly special: exceptional ingredients, time-honored techniques, and flavors that speak for themselves.” For Chef Ménard, the location at Robertson Quay provided the perfect environment to express his culinary vision—one that celebrates French culinary heritage while embracing fresh perspectives.
A Symphony of French Flavors
The Merci Marcel Robertson Quay menu is a testament to the enduring appeal of French cuisine, elevated with contemporary twists that surprise and delight diners. The dishes highlight the finest seasonal ingredients, sourced from both local and international purveyors, ensuring that each bite delivers maximum flavor.
Starters that Delight
The starters set the tone for an unforgettable meal. The Cévennes onion soup is a rich, velvety option, showcasing the sweet, earthy flavors of onions from southern France. Generous chunks of pan-seared foie gras and delicate truffle Chantilly add an indulgent touch. For something lighter, the beetroot tartar and crab croquettes offer refreshing flavors, with the latter incorporating a playful nod to local Singaporean tastes by pairing it with chilli crab mayonnaise.
Main Dishes That Are A Celebration of French Culinary Techniques
The main course options at Merci Marcel are designed to satisfy a range of tastes, from the elegant wild porcini ravioles — delicate pasta pillows filled with wild porcini mushrooms in a creamy cep sauce — to the hearty grilled ribeye steak (600g), which is complemented by Cambodian Kampot pepper and crispy string potatoes. Seafood lovers will relish the poached snapper & scallop quenelle, which showcases classical French cooking techniques with a delicate balance of flavors.
Another standout is the perfectly roasted chicken breast served with a tomato-raspberry sauce, blending savory and sweet elements in a masterful pairing. Each dish demonstrates Chef Ménard’s skill in using high-quality ingredients and refining traditional French recipes.
Delectable Desserts To Cap The Experience
For dessert, Chef Ménard offers his interpretation of some of France’s most beloved treats. The rum baba, inspired by his father’s cherished recipe, is enhanced with a passionfruit glaze and a generous dose of Plantation Dark Rum. Other sweet offerings include the indulgent chocolate espuma and the refreshing coconut spoom—perfectly balancing richness and lightness for a satisfying end to the meal.
A Journey Through French Vineyards
A French meal is never complete without a carefully selected wine pairing, and at Merci Marcel Robertson Quay, the wine list reflects the depth and diversity of France’s vineyards. From bold Bordeaux reds like the Saint-Julien 2006 from Château Léoville Barton to the refined Nuits-Saint-Georges 2021 from Domaine Jean Chauvenet, the wine offerings complement the menu with an impeccable balance of flavor.
The wine list is meticulously curated, featuring both well-known labels and hidden gems from France’s many wine regions. Wine enthusiasts can explore a wide range of options to find the perfect accompaniment to their meal, whether it’s a glass of elegant Burgundy or a more robust selection from the South of France.
A Dining Experience for Every Occasion
Merci Marcel Robertson Quay is designed to cater to every occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal for two, celebrating a special event, or hosting a business dinner, the restaurant’s versatile atmosphere and refined ambiance make it the ideal venue. The spacious outdoor terrace offers stunning riverside views, adding to the experience, while the interior’s relaxed coastal decor creates a welcoming environment for all guests.
Open from Tuesday to Sunday until midnight, the restaurant serves dinner until 10:30 pm, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely, late-night dining experience along the river. Guests can enjoy the delicious food, exceptional wine, and serene atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Final Thoughts
The collaboration between Merci Marcel and Chef Bruno Ménard at Robertson Quay marks an exciting new chapter in Singapore’s food scene. With its elevated menu, exquisite wine pairings, and chic riverside setting, this location promises to become a key destination for food enthusiasts seeking a refined French dining experience. Whether you’re a fan of French cuisine or new to the flavors of France, Merci Marcel Robertson Quay offers an exceptional dining experience that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
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