The girls picked the place this weekend. These days when the young ladies actually want to have dinner together, you do not ask too many questions. That was how we ended up at Odem in New Bahru, tucked inside a refreshed old school compound that now feels like a creative neighbourhood of food, craft and quiet energy. It is easy to miss if you rush, but once inside, the mood settles you down. Warm lights, earthy ceramics, low conversations and a calm confidence that tells you to take your time.

We ordered the way we always do as a family, sharing plates and pouring makgeolli freely. Cloudy, gently fizzy and easy to drink, it set the tone for the night. The soy glazed brioche with seaweed butter came first, warm and glossy, sweet and savoury in a way that feels both indulgent and comforting. The kimchi mozzarella pancake followed, crisp on the outside with that familiar tang and a soft cheesy centre that kept everyone reaching back for more. The savoury donuts were playful and satisfying, one of those dishes that sparks curiosity and smiles around the table.

Fresh oysters arrived next, clean and briny, topped with a kimchi granita that added a cold spicy lift. It woke up the palate nicely before the heavier plates. The grilled whole kombu aged fish was a highlight for me. Simply cooked, beautifully moist, the kombu ageing giving the flesh a deeper savoury sweetness without overpowering it. It was honest cooking and quietly confident.

For meats, we shared the secreto iberico and barbecue ribs. The pork was juicy and rich, grilled just right, while the ribs were smoky, sticky and deeply satisfying.

Dessert was a gentle close. The chapssal donuts dusted with cinnamon sugar tasted uncannily like churros, crisp on the outside, chewy within. The black garlic tart with berries surprised us with its balance, sweet and earthy with just a savoury edge, made even better with the smoked jujube ice cream alongside.

It was a simple family dinner, plates passed around, opinions exchanged, laughter mixed with food and drink. Odem felt right for this kind of evening. Relaxed but thoughtful, modern yet grounded. A place where good food brings the family back to the table and lets time slow down, even just for a while.

Odem
46 Kim Yam Rd
#01-17 NewBahru
Singapore 239351