Pop-ups can be one of the best places to discover new food. Or to get your hands on something you’ve been dying to try but haven’t had a chance, like I did today at the @parkbenchdeli X @roastparadise event. The latter’s “char siew” and “sio bak” are legendary and I have yet to brave the queues for them, so this pop-up presented the perfect opportunity. Plus knowing how good the sandwiches at “Park Bench Deli” (PBD) are, it’s a sure-win sitch.
So I hustled over there once my lunch event at “Birds Of A Feather” ended. And even though I was feeling quite full at that point, I got myself the “Roast Meat Banh Mi” ($18). This thing of beauty comprised of a light, crisp French roll spread with a thick layer of chicken pate and chunky cuts of the two meats from “Roast Paradise” that have long been on my wishlist. The richness of those was balanced deliciously with carrot and daikon pickles, fresh coriander, cucumber and mustard aioli. I couldn’t help but whack the whole thing, with a little help from a refreshing cocktail by @leontbk of @nativebarsg that complemented the flavours beautifully.
The next PBD collab I’m very excited for is the one with “Rumah Makan Minang” (@minang.sg) happening on Sunday, 29th July. Whatever they will be serving (did someone mention a Beef Rendang Sandwich?) will have mocktails to match. Yes, out of respect for their halal partner in this pop-up, they will not be serving any alcohol.