Nassim Hill Bakery Bistro Bar

It was a lazy Saturday morning when we decided to have a late breakfast at Nassim Hill Bakery Bistro Bar. Saw a few empty tables as we walked into the bustling place but was told those were reserved and there were no available seats. Wondered aloud why others managed to reserve when its website clearly states that reservations are only accepted from 3pm onwards on Saturdays and Sundays. Staff however could not be bothered to explain or make an attempt to say, re-arrange the non-reserved tables. In fact, the service (except for that of the boss or manager in-charge) disgusted us so much that we would not be back. Especially since similar food choices could be found at nearby Dempsey, Hediard at Tudor Court and Benjamin Browns Bakery & Bistro at Forum The Shopping Mall. Most reviews raved about its bread from Freshly Baked by Le Bijoux but I could just visit the bakery itself at Killiney Road, couldn't I?

There was a laid-back vibe about the spacious place with concrete floor, lots of wood (think tables and chairs) and a few stain glass windows. Tucked at the back of Tanglin Post Office, it was hidden away from the main roads – Napier Road and Tanglin Road. All breakfast sets were supposed to come with two pieces of toast with butter and jam on the side, but we were served an Artisan Bread basket instead. Yes, only one basket with five slices for a table of six though we ordered 3-4 sets and a Hot Reubun sandwich. Loved the soft and fluffy inside of the breads, especially sweet Almond Brioche, and how well Rye Cereal and White Ciabata went with the fruits preserves. As well as the Speculoos, what I know as Belgian caramelised biscuit, served with coffee and tea. I always think they are a perfect match and this came with almond. The bitter cappuccino was nothing to rave about or fault while the hot chocolate was not thick enough.

We loved our eggs done sunny-side up, so had a set with honey baked ham and added salmon to another set with bacon. Salmon was tad salty for my liking and crispy bacon reminiscent of bak kwa was more hard than melt-in-the-mouth. These were salvaged by eggs done just right, with runny yolks, and well-balanced by raw greens and tomatoes in a tart dressing. Thought the steak and eggs were the best among the items we ordered (neither tried nor took photo of the Hot Reubun sandwich) with the former tender, juicy and full of flavour. My tongue could hardly pick out the subtle difference between wholemeal Belgian waffle and the usual ones, possibly due to the accompanying butter and maple syrup. No longer crispy on the outside when I ate, it was cold and moist. Ended our meal with Nutella Swiss Roll and Jaffa Cake, and while the latter was soft and fluffy with a tinge of orange taste in it, neither impressed.