Mischief: Celeb restaurant celebrates first year
Mischief turned one in March.
And in the unpredictable F&B scene, that's cause for celebration, especially when a new menu is rolled out for its first anniversary.
Mischief - opened by local actresses Cynthia Koh and Michelle Chong, along with the owners of Rookery, Suprette and Tab - is still serving American street food, but with a twist, mixing in ingredients such as charcoal and mentaiko.
The vibe has not changed. It's still a boisterous yet relaxed place for letting loose. Thank goodness the new menu doesn't add fussiness to the atmosphere.
I am glad there is something like Mischief as an added choice for diners (not just because I know some of the owners).
There are days you don't want the formality of a restaurant, to wear what you want, eat with your fingers, and laugh loudly - everything Mischief seems to encourage.
The Cod Fish Charcoal ($16) is not pretty: Pieces of black lumps, the size of a baby's fist, looking like the aftermath of a week of constipation. But the cod is juicy and the crunch is heavenly. I don't understand the charcoal coat because it doesn't add to the taste, but it'll start (or end) conversations.
The Grilled Iberico Slices ($16) is jowl cooked for 12 hours, marinated with maple and soya sauce. The sweet and sour sauce is an able accompaniment too.
I was surprised by the sunny side up egg at the bottom of the pan of Baby Calamari ($18). It's such a fun discovery. The squid is appropriately crispy too.
I have mixed feelings about the Grilled Wagyu Cubes & Bone Marrow ($26). The beef portion is tender, nicely seasoned and tasty, but the bone marrow is flat and flavourless. It feels like it's all oil, no flavours.
Chicken wings at a bar are expected, and Mischief's version - Garlic Soy Wings ($14) - is nice enough but not remarkable. I wish the garlic is more prominent or if there's a touch of spice to give it a kick.
WHAT Mischief
WHERE Esplanade Mall #01-12
WHEN Monday to Thursday 5pm-1am, Friday and Saturday 5pm-3am, Sunday 5pm-11pm
CALL 6532-0481
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now