Binary — Singapore’s Most Confused Duo
When you walk into Binary on Orchard Road, you might think you’re stepping into another fancy “East‑ties‑West‑or‑both” spot. But instead of one grand fusion, you’re offered a menu that feels like a relationship – two chefs from opposite worlds sitting on a shared table with a stern “Let’s get to the point.” Each dish is split into a crazy “her or its” version, and they both try to be the best with the same ingredients.
What’s the Vibe?
Set in Palais Renaissance, the 45‑seat haunt boasts smooth blonde timber, marble tables, and an outdoor terrace where you can watch the traffic rage while sipping. Its address, #01‑01A, is a nod to binary code, but the restaurant’s name actually comes from a binary star – two suns orbiting each other so closely they look single. The menu is a nod to that concept: every dish comes in two flavors that never mix but somehow coexist.
The Starter Shock
- Cheese ($18) – You could go deep‑fried burrata (Italian) or tandoori paneer (Indian). Both are cheese‑pieces that have decided to get a spouse. Pretend you’re trying a new relationship.
- Chicken Wings ($18) – Buffalo wings or a nasi lemak version (ginger, turmeric, cumin, a side of sambal tumis). Pick the spicy one and watch your tongue do a salsa move.
- Tomato Bruschetta ($14) – Think tomato, thyme, and a tangy plum‑sauce twist. It’s refreshing until you hit the Homemade Kubaneh Bread ($14), which is like knitting a loaf out of the soul – fluffy, buttery, garlic‑buttered, and a great way to “fa la la” before the main course.
Mid‑Game Delights
- Tiger Prawns ($18) – Either Asian‑style prawn fritters or gambas al ajillo (Spanish garlic shrimp). We went for the garlic one, because who can resist a good olive‑oil garlic combo?
- Octopus ($28) – Grilled, crisp, tender. You can fancy a pesto al genovese or go for the Lao Gan Ma chili crisp. For the non‑spicy outfit, the Chinese style with black bean sauce and black vinegar keeps it tame.
- Iberico Pluma ($38) – Marinated with either chimichurri or gochujang. The Korean version had a dry Iberico pork in a spicy gochujang sauce, served with a DIY lettuce wrap: green coral lettuce, kimchi, and spunky ssamjang.
Side Bites That Stick
- Mushroom Fritti ($14) – Deep‑fried oyster mushrooms with karaage flour for crunch.
- Parmesan Bacon Cauliflower ($14) – Covered in parmesan and breadcrumbs, teasing your taste buds with garlic.
Sweet Finish
The dessert section is small but hits the mark. Think classic fudge brownies, or go bold with the Hong Kong Egglet ($16). It’s a fluffy egg waffle, crunchy and fragrant, topped with sea‑salt ice cream and yuzu jam.
Wine, Draft & Savings
You can lounge with over 60 wines, many slotted in the $16 range or cheaper for wines by the glass. The binary-themed craft brew is a smooth, light‑bodied cream ale, made by local Rye & Pint. It’s a good way to finish up a date or just chill with friends.
Location & Hours
390 Orchard Rd, Palais Renaissance #01‑01A, Singapore 238871 – Call +65 9363 0101. Open daily from 11.30 am to 10.30 pm.
Binary is the place to test your palate’s “for my partner” versus “for my partner” options. It promises conversation, laughter, and a tastefully dichotomic menu that’s guaranteed to have you asking, “Which side do I pick first?”
