[Review] Explore a Modern Asian Culinary Adventure with Asian Wines at VITIS Wine Bar & Bistro

Nestled within the sleek confines of DUO Galleria, VITIS Wine Bar & Bistro is a hidden gem to celebrate Asian winemaking, aptly paired with a menu of modern Asian cuisine.

Helmed by founder Gary Low and Executive Chef Kenneth Lin, VITIS seeks to offer a multi-sensory culinary journey that seamlessly marries food, wine, and design for the discerning.

First-time restaurant owner, Gary Low, is an established figure in Singapore’s wine scene, with a distinguished career as Head Sommelier at acclaimed restaurants like Burnt Ends, Corner House, and JAAN by Kirk Westaway. Gary has garnered accolades such as the Platinum Award for Best Old World Wine List and Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence. At VITIS, he champions Asian wines and winemakers, curating a unique selection that transcends traditional labels and complements the menu’s contemporary Asian flavours. Gary’s mission is to inspire a deeper, more inclusive wine culture that invites exploration and new perspectives.

Trained at At-Sunrice GlobalChef Academy, Kenneth honed his craft through leadership roles at establishments like Jaan, DB Bistro Moderne, and Michelin-starred Burnt Ends. As Executive Chef of VITIS Wine Bar & Bistro, Kenneth curates a menu of contemporary Asian flavours thoughtfully paired with wines, emphasising precision, creativity, and attention to detail to deliver memorable meals.

VITIS’ differentiation from other fine dining establishments is its exclusive focus on wines from Asian vineyards—a rare offering in Singapore. From China’s 2020 Silver Heights Chardonnay, Family Reserve, Ningxia to India’s NV Fratelli Grand Cuvée Brut, Sanhan Valley, Maharashtra, these selections challenge the dominance of traditional wine regions, showcasing the depth and diversity of Asian terroirs:

Our tasting began with a crisp GranMonte Cremant from Khao Yai, Thailand, a brilliant pairing for the menu’s lighter starters.

To go with the Asian wine selections, Chef Kenneth’s menu is thoughtfully curated, offering bold reinventions of classic Asian dishes. Think familiar flavours, but with a surprising twist for a different interpretation.

We started with oysters, available au naturel or with unique condiments like Tiger’s Milk (a citrus-based marinade commonly used in Peruvian cuisine to cure seafood, particularly for ceviche dishes) & Dill Oil or Ponzu Mignonette.

The delicate flavours of the oysters paired beautifully with the Thai sparkling wine, set the tone for an exciting gastronomic experience.

The Chilled Tomato dish followed. Juicy and refreshing, the horseradish and ponzu added depth, while the nashi pear provided a subtle sweetness.

Next, the Singapore-inspired ‘Hae-Mee’ Mussels, features fresh mussels bathed in an aromatic prawn bisque and served with crusty sourdough. The dish delivers a comforting umami punch, perfectly matched with the creamy yet balanced Chardonnay from Ningxia, China.

Among the mains, the Assam Glazed Ribs was our favourite. The glaze’s tangy sweetness complemented the tender meat, while the accompanying rojak salad provided a vibrant contrast.

If you prefer something lighter, the Steamed Daily Fish, prepared Cantonese-style with soy sauce and Asian herbs, showcased the chef’s mastery in highlighting natural flavours without overwhelming them.

The Grilled Sumi Ika, stuffed with glutinous rice and topped with Kecap salsa, offered an adventurous blend of textures and smoky undertones. The rich flavours of the squid is balanced with the lighter rice interior.

The meal concluded with a Deconstructed Chocolate Cake, where Valrhona chocolate met the tropical notes of lychee, a dessert that was as artistic as it was indulgent.

The ambiance of VITIS deserves mention. Designed by Emma Maxwell Studio, the interiors blend natural materials with refined finishes. A mirrored ceiling and a monolithic granite tasting counter create a setting that mirrors the artistry of both winemaking and cuisine.

VITIS Wine Bar & Bistro is a bold addition to Singapore’s dining scene, offering a unique focus on Asian wines paired with creative dishes that seek to honour and elevate regional flavours. The wines are as important as the dishes at VITIS and not just an afterthought. This is a must-visit for wine lovers who would love to sample from a curated selection of some of the best Asian wines, paired accordingly with the right modern Asian cuisine.

VITIS Wine Bar and Bistro

Address:
7 Fraser St, #01-46/47, DUO Galleria, Singapore 189356

Contact Number:
+65 8823 3993

Email:
reservation@vitis.sg

Operating Hours:
Monday – Friday
Lunch: 12pm to 2:15pm (Last seating)
Dinner: 5pm to 10:15pm (Last seating)

Saturday
Dinner: 5pm to 10:15pm (Last seating)

Closed on Sunday