[Review] Nomáda: A Culinary Journey Through Modern Spanish Cuisine

nomada
Credits: NÓMADA

Nomáda specialises in authentic Spanish cuisine combined with a refreshing modern twist and creative presentations. Their highly-curated menu features several small plates, paella, mains like seafood and a couple of desserts.

The new gem on the iconic Keong Saik Road, is the brainchild of renowned Chef Gonzalo Landin, a culinary visionary who brings together the essence of Spain’s rich gastronomy with bold global influences.

Before launching Nómada, he spent eight years as the Executive Chef at Binomio and Set of Six, honing his craft in both traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine. Now, at Nómada, he weaves a tapestry of flavors and stories, taking diners on a journey through Spain’s diverse landscapes, while reimagining Spanish classics with avant-garde flair. 

Nómada’s rustic charm is highlighted by the warm, dim yellow lighting, with each table adorned with its own lamp, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. A small bar area also invites guests to enjoy inventive small bites, perfect for those looking to indulge in a more casual yet equally dynamic dining experience.

Homemade Flat Bread with Za’atar ($16)

For Appetizers, we had the Homemade Flat Bread with Za’atar. It had a tough, crispy crust with a chewy interior. The bits of cheese sprinkled on top melts-in-your-mouth, gently complementing the bread’s earthiness. This dish is good for sharing between 2-4 people. 

Sautéed Wild Mushrooms ($18)

The Sautéed Wild Mushrooms are presented with a sauce that needs to be mixed in when served, while the dish is still warm. You can do this yourself, or have the server assist. The dish feels somewhat familiar, akin to a stir-fry mushroom dish, with a subtle truffle taste that enhances each bite.

Hokkaido Foie Gras Scallops ($32)

The Hokkaido Foie Gras Scallops dish was plated beautifully. The scallops, while leaning towards the saltier side, contrast with the rich, melt-in-your-mouth foie gras. The foie gras is both crisp on the outside and tender within, creating a luxurious bite. The foie gras is served atop soft bread which soaks up the savory sauce and adds another layer to the dish.

Squid, Lemon and Parsley Sauce with Squid Ink Emulsion ($26)

The Squid, Lemon and Parsley Sauce with Squid Ink Emulsion is undoubtedly the highlight of the meal at Nómada. The squid is impeccably cooked, soft and delicate. The perfect pairing of the zesty lemon with squid is an unexpected yet delightful combination, with the citrus adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the squid. The addition of brown crisps provides a unique texture, offering a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender squid.

Foie Gras and Figs Rice ($68)

The Foie Gras and Figs Rice is a rich and indulgent dish that offers a balance of flavours, though it might lean a bit towards the fatty side due to the generous use of foie gras. The portion is ideal for sharing, comfortably serving 2-3 people. Although the pan is shallow, its wide surface ensures a thin, evenly spread layer of rice, allowing for a delightful paella-like texture. The rice itself is tangy, bringing along a pleasant acidity with a slight crunch.

Pistachio and Raspberries Tart ($16)

The Pistachio and Raspberries Tart showcases a well-balanced combination of textures and flavors. The pink raspberry cream on top of the moist and perfectly baked cake provides a fruity, refreshing contrast, tying the cake together with a burst of vibrant flavour. The pistachio ice cream served alongside adds a creamy richness, complemented by crunchy crumbles that enhance its texture. The two desserts create an interesting shift from one flavor profile to the next, offering a dynamic dessert experience.

Credits: NÓMADA

Verdict

The restaurant’s atmosphere, a blend of rustic Spanish charm and modern elegance, creates the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. Food is generally decent and dishes are good for sharing. While the service is generally okay, the setting is undeniably ideal for special occasions, suitable for romantic date nights or celebrating milestones.

Additionally, many tables were occupied by groups of colleagues after a day of work, indicating that Nómada is also well-suited for corporate gatherings. Overall, Nómada is a great destination for both casual indulgence and more sophisticated dining affairs.

Nomáda

Address: 1 Keong Saik Rd, #01-05, Singapore 089109  

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, Lunch (12:00pm – 2:30pm), Dinner (5:30pm – 11:00pm).

Closed on Sundays.

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