Nestled in the lush greenery of the Botanic Gardens lies a long-established restaurant called The Halia. Meaning “ginger” in Malay, this quaint eatery with indoor and outdoor dining serves up halal-certified meals and non-alcoholic beverages. Set in a unique atmosphere, this is the place for family and friends to gather in nature and also the best place for a romantic setting.
The Halia has a specially made Date Night Special at $75 for a minimum of two, of course. It is a three-course meal with a mocktail session to top it off. Yes, you can make your own and your partner's drink – Halia Mint Berry – in a fun way with the enthusiastic staff.
Called the Herbarium Experience, impress your date by following along with the bartender as you gather then muddle your ingredients of ginger, blueberry, lime and mint leaves to bring out their flavours. Then, add your mix into a glass with ice and top it up with lemonade soda. Make sure to take photos of this refreshing drink that helps you cool down in the warm weather while seated in the outdoor area overlooking the lush greenery.
On to the food – starters involve Irish oysters with a ginger flower sambal and lemon. Tangy with a hint of spice, it is a great way to begin the dinner. The smoked duck paste with fish roe is also a hit as you scoop up the paste into tiny kueh pie tees. This satisfying starter leaves you wanting more.
For mains, the Wagyu Rump is tender and juicy with a delightful black pepper sauce that makes you dance a little in your seat with every bite. The grilled Hokkaido scallop with a side of dory fish in a curry oil distinctly stood out. Together, it rounds the dish up well.
Dessert time included a sweet potato ice cream with fermented blueberry – another hit with a smooth texture and mild taste that doesn't overwhelm the sweet tooth. And the Valrhona chocolate tart served with an indulgent chocolate ice cream is a surprise taste worth experiencing.
For a setting where you feel like you are out of Singapore and staff that are knowledgeable with recommendations, very friendly that they made you feel so comfortable and just all round excellence in service, The Halia is a great place for date night and something a little different to do in our island city.