Dismal food experience

I always hesitate to spend exorbitant amount of money on very average food. Especially in Singapore where there are unfortunately too many restaurants that give you that experience. For the birthday of my special half, I set aside my misgivings and gave it a go at Salt Grill and Sky Bar located in Ion Orchard. 

The reviews seemed good, with many accolades given for the view. And the executive chef has a renowned reputation in Australia for modern classics. Very reminiscence of the food scene in Melbourne and Sydney. 

And so we went with high expectations. It will be a costly meal, since it's smack in the heart of Orchard. I hope I will not be disappointed. The view was indeed phenomenal. Panaromic views of the downtown skyline. The setting and atmosphere is quite elegant and chi chi. We were given a table right at an unblocked window so it started off on the right note. Service was what you would expect at a fine dining restaurant and nothing to shout about. The menu seems sophisticated with some interesting dishes. 

Well, the food turns out to be good, above average but not great. We had a more memorable dining experience at Buku Nero for the half the price of SGD200 per head. With less pretence. So what went wrong? I think it's really the quality of the ingredients and the overall execution. We had better foie gras at Chez Papa for a much bigger portion at half the price. Oysters were so small it's almost a pain to eat them. My duck breast was a tad better than the venison. The beetroot purée was too overpowering. 

Would I head back again? For the view, yes. Otherwise, I feel less cheated at Chez Papa.