Stella - Singapore

This is a review of lunch with a colleague at Chit's Bar and Restaurant. The restaurant was selected by my colleague. This is a relatively waterside restaurant. It maintains a airy open feel. This is true for both the outdoor and indoor seating. It looked like the kind of place that would be wonderful for an evening of drinks. Ah, but this was just a lunch and since it was during the mid day heat, we selected an indoor seat just under a fan. [hidden link] [hidden link] The server was very friendly, professional, and efficient. The food came out relatively quick. The food ranged from good to very good. Chocolate Shake and Lime Juice Both of these were pretty good. But neither of them were great. The shake was a bit dense and lacked a depth of chocolate flavour. The lime juice was not as refreshing as some. I doubt if it was fresh. [hidden link] [hidden link] Fish n Chips When they arrived, I noticed they did not look like traditional fish n chips. The coating was more bread like. Something more like I would expect to see on a schnitzel. But, when I gave it a go, I was pleasantly surprised. The fish was very good. The coating was crispy. The fish was tender, flaky and flavourful. It was served with some fresh greens and some fries. The fries were just ok and the portion was small. Since the portion for the fish was generous, I did not leave hungry. [hidden link] Spaghetti Bolognese My colleague had the spaghetti. It actually looked very good. He enjoyed it. [hidden link] Receipt (Lunch for 2 $60.62) At just over $60 for two people, this is another spot that isn't exactly a budget lunch. But it is a nice spot to get a break from the office and see the ocean and some palm trees. [hidden link] Overall I really enjoyed Chit's Bar and Restaurant . I think I would like it even more in the evening. The food was freshly prepared and quite good. The service was friendly. It has a bit of a feel of being on a beach side holiday. I would have no issue with returning.

For a reason unknown, this restaurant reminds me of my childhood. Perhaps its the 80s 90s like architecture, and the general distance from civilization that makes it feel less like Singapore with all its clutter. The best thing about this restaurant could also be the worse thing about it for some people. The airplanes are at an amazingly close distance, it is loud and big and just pure incredible. For me its a joy just to sit by the sea, enjoying the breeze and some seafood whilst watching airplanes take off one by one. Another plus point for me is that the live band generally play the oldies, 60s,70s, 80s, and some 90s. The food is not too bad, the prices are decently matched with its quality. Service is friendly and attentive. This is one of my favourite places in Singapore, a definite 5 stars.

Chit's, you're killing me. Your location is perfect, your staff are attentive and friendly, your prices are affordable and reasonable. But the food, man. You've gotta fix the food. It's not that it's 100% bad all of the time. It's that you're inconsistent. I could visit on four consecutive weekends, have the same dish, and have four completely different experiences. And I have. Then, just when I'm ready to give it up and break it off for good, you serve a damn fine meal and you've got me coming back for another 3 disappointing months. I'm begging you, guys, fix it. I want to like you. I want to have no hesitation in coming back to Chit's because I love the location and the vibe so damn much. But I fear that the day is fast approaching when I'll finally hit my limit and never, ever come back and that would be a crying shame. Oh, and watch out for the parking. It's a nightmare.

Five star location, vibe and service. Three star food. Not anything awful, just not anything to write home about.

If you are looking for a place right by the sea, outdoor, quiet except for the planes flying above, with live music, serves draft beer, this is it.