What started as a small neighbourhood shack selling roast chicken on paper plates has evolved into a cosy bistro dishing out comforting French-inspired fare on quirky mismatched plates. Summer Hill was once tucked away in Sunset Way, but now welcomes guests at Claymore Connect in Orchard. Still, it greets customers like family in its warm and inviting space reminiscent of a quaint French courtyard.
Start with small plates like marinated tomatoes ($19) dressed in housemade ricotta with basil, mint, and parsley. Other must-tries include the duck fat potato pavé ($16) and savoury cornbread madeleines ($8).
Then, move on to hearty mains that are ideal for sharing. The classic roast chicken ($62) sounds unassuming, but look past its simple appearance and you'll get why regulars rave about this. Brined for 24 hours then herb-butter roasted, even the chicken breast is fork-tender and uber succulent. It comes served with a housemade chicken demi-glace, though in our view, it's great even on its own. Chef-owner Anthony Yeoh used to helm the kitchen of Bird Bird and Cocotte so you know he knows his way around fried fowl. Make sure to pre-order this in advance.
Don't miss out on the Kurobuta pork belly porchetta as well ($231). This comes at a heftier price, but its perfectly executed crackling and juicy middle might be well worth a one-time splurge. This serves four to five people and comes with four types of condiments, including a spicy green pepper dip and a pungent but addictive mustard sauce.
The restaurant also recently launched a unique brunch trolley concept — a refreshing take on the traditional Chinese dim sum trolley. The experience (from $69 per person) is available on weekends and features a spread of French comfort food served on a roving trolley. Think unlimited servings of egg cocotte, trout rillettes, duck confit, desserts, and more.