We're usually weary of what we see on Instagram. More often than not, good looking pictures don't make for good tasting plates. But shots of Korio's cheesy sandwiches loaded with various other toppings and doughnuts glazed in various shades of pink, white and brown caught our attention. And its close proximity to the Time Out Singapore office, we decided to give this Instagram pleaser a try.
Korio's tiny space within Far East Square is pretty bare. It probably fits about five people at a time and there are no seats available. A glass case of doughnuts tempts us as we read the letterboard menu outlining the daily specials: Tuna Melt ($12) on Mondays, Grilled Halloumi ($13) on Tuesdays, Peking Duck Sammy ($14) on Wednesdays, Vegan Sammy ($13) on Thursdays and Pulled Porkless ($11) on Fridays. The signature Grilled Cheese ($9) and the Breakfast Sammy ($9) are available throughout the week, although the latter tends to sell out by lunchtime.
We managed to get out hands on a tasty grilled halloumi sandwich on Tuesday, which comes generously packed with rocket leaves and tangy roasted cherry tomatoes and caramalised onions between two greased up slices of sesame sourdough. The combination worked seamlessly, with a little bit of sweet, sour and spicy with each bite. We also enjoyed the Grilled Cheese ($9) oozing with cheddar and American cheese over whole-wheat slices of sourdough. We appreciated the sweetness the onions provided but thought it could use a touch of heat to balance out the richness of the cheese – maybe some jalapeño or mustard?
As for the doughnuts, we ordered the white chocolate glaze with desiccated coconut flakes as well as the pb&j. They were both light, pillowy and had just the right amount of chew without being cloyingly sweet. But we'd still recommend going halfsies with a colleague so that you can sample more (or dial back on the calories).