




Food Picks: New menu at Spanish restaurant Asador, where you can share a meal with strangers


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Asador Launches Fresh Spanish Menu, Turning Dining Into a Social Adventure
In a city that prides itself on culinary diversity, Singapore’s Spanish grill Asador has taken an extra step to make dining an experience that goes beyond the plate. The restaurant, which has long been celebrated for its sizzling tapas and rustic ambience, has unveiled a brand‑new menu that not only showcases the finest Iberian flavors but also deepens its signature “table for strangers” philosophy.
A Warm, Authentic Setting
Nestled in the heart of the city, Asador sits in a charming, colonial‑style building that preserves the feel of a Spanish tavern. The space is divided into two main zones: a dimly lit, open‑fire grill where chefs showcase their searing skills, and a more intimate, communal dining area where guests can choose to sit side‑by‑side with strangers. The restaurant’s décor – exposed brick, wrought‑iron tables, and subtle nods to Spanish culture such as tiles and wooden barrels – creates an atmosphere that feels both inviting and adventurous.
The owner, Miguel Rodríguez, explains that the original vision was to recreate the “family‑friendly” vibe of a Spanish patio in a fast‑paced metropolis. “We wanted people to step away from the digital noise and, instead, connect over a shared meal,” he says. “The new menu is part of that mission: it’s a celebration of simple, honest ingredients that encourage conversation.”
The New Menu – A Journey Through Iberian Spain
Asador’s culinary team, led by Chef José Luis García, spent months scouting the Iberian Peninsula for seasonal produce and traditional recipes that would translate well to Singapore’s palate. The result is a menu that blends classic dishes with subtle, contemporary twists. Highlights include:
- Charred Iberian Jamón – Thinly sliced, the cured ham is drizzled with olive oil and served with crusty bread and a small glass of vermouth.
- Grilled Octopus – Tender tentacles marinated in garlic, paprika, and lemon, then finished over a charcoal grill to deliver a smoky, charred exterior.
- Patatas Bravas – The staple of any Spanish tapas, served in a spicy tomato sauce with a hint of smoked paprika.
- Chorizo al Vino – Coarse‑cut chorizo slowly braised in red wine, accompanied by caramelized onions and roasted bell peppers.
- Tortilla Española – A thick, hearty omelet filled with potatoes, onions, and a touch of smoked paprika, served with a side of aioli.
- Pisto Manchego – A vegetable medley similar to ratatouille but seasoned with saffron and fresh herbs, garnished with poached eggs.
- Paella Valenciana – A classic saffron‑infused rice dish featuring rabbit, chicken, and fresh mussels, finished with a touch of saffron oil.
The tasting menu—available in both a 3‑course and a 5‑course version—offers a curated experience that moves from light, palate‑cleaning starters to richer, heartier mains, ending with a sweet, aromatic dessert of caramelized figs and toasted almonds. All dishes are prepared with locally sourced produce wherever possible, ensuring freshness while keeping an authentic Spanish flavor profile.
A Table for Strangers – The Social Dining Concept
What sets Asador apart is its “table for strangers” concept. Guests can opt for a private table, a shared communal table, or even a mixed setting where strangers and friends are seated together. The communal area is intentionally designed to foster interaction: tables are long, the seating is flexible, and the staff are trained to prompt conversations—often through a shared dish or a question of the day. As a result, diners often leave with new acquaintances and a shared sense of adventure.
Chef García notes, “The magic happens when people open up. A shared meal creates a natural conversation starter, and the shared experience of savoring Spanish cuisine turns strangers into temporary companions.” The restaurant’s social media has seen a steady rise in photos and reviews from patrons who share stories of “meeting someone new over a plate of chorizo” or “bonding over grilled octopus.”
Pricing and Reservations
The restaurant offers a la carte options as well as set menus. A 3‑course tasting menu starts at SGD 45 per person, while the 5‑course version is priced at SGD 65. The shared communal table option is slightly cheaper, with a per‑person price of SGD 30 for the 3‑course tasting menu, making it an affordable choice for students and young professionals.
Reservations are recommended, especially for the communal tables, as they tend to fill up quickly on weekends. The restaurant’s online booking system is straightforward, and a “First‑come, first‑served” policy is followed for walk‑ins on weekdays. For larger groups or private events, Asador offers a special event space that can accommodate up to 30 guests, complete with a private grill and a dedicated chef.
What the Critics Say
After its launch, Asador has received positive reviews from local food critics. The Straits Times described the new menu as “a vibrant homage to Iberian traditions, delivered with a touch of modern flair.” Food blogger YummyInSG highlighted the communal dining concept, calling it “a breath of fresh air in Singapore’s dining scene.” Meanwhile, the Singapore Food Network praised the chef’s use of locally sourced ingredients, noting that it “brings a sustainable twist to classic Spanish dishes.”
Behind the Scenes
The new menu was conceived in part by chef García’s recent travels across Spain. His time in Andalusia, in particular, inspired the use of fresh seafood and the emphasis on grilling techniques. An article on Chef’s Notebook (linked within Asador’s press kit) delves deeper into the chef’s philosophy: “Cooking is an act of storytelling. Every dish has a narrative that spans cultures, history, and personal memories.”
Additionally, Asador’s website (which the Straits Times article linked to) offers a detailed breakdown of the menu’s sourcing, from Iberian ham that has been cured for months to fresh octopus harvested from the Adriatic Sea. The site also features a blog section where the chef shares behind‑the‑scenes stories and recipe tips, encouraging diners to recreate a taste of Spain at home.
Why It Matters
In an era where dining is often a solitary experience—think take‑out or food delivery—Asador’s approach offers a tangible reminder that food can be a catalyst for connection. By marrying authentic Spanish cuisine with a community‑centric dining model, the restaurant invites Singaporeans and tourists alike to step out of their comfort zones, meet strangers, and share stories over a shared platter.
Whether you’re a foodie craving authentic Iberian flavors, a social butterfly eager to meet new friends, or simply looking for a unique dining experience, Asador’s new menu and communal concept make it a must‑visit spot in Singapore’s vibrant culinary tapestry. As Miguel Rodríguez puts it, “When you share a meal, you share a moment. And those moments are what create lasting memories.”
Read the Full The Straits Times Article at:
[ https://www.straitstimes.com/life/food/food-picks-new-menu-at-spanish-restaurant-asador-where-you-can-share-a-meal-with-strangers ]