Few things are more quintessentially French than a cosy bistro serving up delicious food, and that’s what the new French Fold at Palais Renaissance embodies. The sister to the Merci Marcel flagship outlet, which is located on the same premises, French Fold promises a delightful gastronomical experience in the form of galettes and crepes, plus a refreshed cocktail menu for thirsty diners.
Opened in mid-January this year, the space features an al fresco and indoor dining area, as well as a bar situated at the entrance and overlooking Palais Renaissance’s concourse. The latter is the pièce de résistance of the place, exuding ‘70s charm with its deep emerald hues and ceramic tiles. A boxwood bead pearl curtain by 1909 Perle de Bois, handmade in France, greets diners as they walk in.
The interior of the restaurant is a study in rustic minimalism, characterised by earthy tones, bold lines, and verdant greenery. Conceptualised by Singapore-based studio Hui Designs, these elements lend a welcoming, cosy atmosphere to the 140sqm space. The Merci Marcel Group also spared no expense in sourcing materials and furnishings to achieving the ideal finish: you’ll find chairs designed by French studio Starck, Mediterranean-inspired sofa fabrics by Dedar, and an array of vintage mahogany furniture sourced in France and Europe, all of which are softly illuminated by Louis Poulsen lamps.
The space has fulfilled its goal of being the more avant-garde counterpart to its original outlet in Telok Ayer. “While the new French Fold retains the essential galettes and crepes experience, we wanted the space to be more experimental,” says Antoine Rouland, the founder of Merci Marcel Group.
This also translates to a refreshed menu where diners will find a marriage of local flavours with the traditional French galettes and crepes that French Fold is known for. The variety includes No.11, which has a yellow curry base served up with fresh sauteed shrimps and leek fondue and onions, and No. 14, a savoury galette featuring tandoori coconut milk sauce, pineapple and chicken. Health-conscious diners will be glad to know that all of the savoury galettes are gluten-free, and made with exclusively imported buckwheat flour.
Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy crepes such as No. 28, which combines the tanginess of lime coulis with the decadence of dark chocolate chips and milk chocolate. There’s also the option of pairing your crepe with ice cream flavours from local gelato brand and partner Birds of Paradise.
In true French fashion, the drinks menu doesn’t disappoint. Quench your thirst with cider-inspired cocktails like the Eurostar, rose cider stirred with Widges gin and a hint of lemon juice, or one of their organic and sustainably vinified wines from their curated selection imported directly from France. Non-alcoholic options include traditional teas from Kusmi Tea, tea infusions from UMÀ Infusion, and fruit nectar from Patrick FONT.
“Launching French Fold in 2020 was a bold move by the group given the pandemic situation. However, we are appreciative of the huge positive response from the public and opening this second outlet felt like a natural next step for the group,” says Antoine. “As always, we welcome all to join us at this new space; be it a casual catch-up session or special dining occasions, French Fold opens its doors to you.”
French Fold Palais Renaissance is located at 390 Orchard Road, #01-02.