Ordered a few items to split between 3 people. Everything was average or bad. Normally I wouldn’t bother leaving a bad review and just avoid returning, but one of the dishes was done so badly I had to say something. We ordered a $27 grain bowl containing steak. Reference photos and photos from other reviews led us to believe it would be cooked to medium-ish but it arrived cooked to well-done. After tasting a piece, which was very chewy, we decided to send it back and informed them it was because the steak was overcooked. We were then given another bowl with a few pieces cooked right but a few pieces that were similarly overcooked. The upsetting part is that the difference was so big it seems like the kitchen just left a few overcooked slices from the previously served steak, hoping we wouldn’t notice… Other items tried were a seafood linguine, truffle fries and beef cheek. Beef cheek was tough and the other items were average. Will not be coming back.

Dropped by Populus for a random Thursday lunch. The food was decent and well-prepared, though nothing particularly memorable. Portions were reasonable and the overall dining experience was pleasant. The highlight for me was definitely the coffee. Smooth, well-balanced, and expertly made — a great cup that lived up to Populus’ reputation as a café. The atmosphere was comfortable and relaxed, making it a nice spot for a casual lunch or coffee break. While the food was average, I’d happily return for the coffee and café vibe. ☕️

+3

Food was great. Each dish showed the great cooking of the establishment. We ordered the Pesto ($22+), Pulled Lamb Burger ($25+) and a rice bowl ($20+). Rice bowl was a repeat order and would recommend. Pulled Lamb Burger was filling and the burger sauce was amazing. Only downside would be the price. For that price, one would expect more sides with the Burger. As we sat on the second floor, service was not as good. Servers often neglect this part of the building and hence, they were not as proactive in filling up empty bottles. However, upon request, they would do so promptly. One also could not get hold of a server if they were up there serving a customer. Atmosphere was good and we thoroughly enjoyed the homely atmosphere where one could have candid discussions. Overall, would recommend this place though price would be on the steep side.

Finally had the chance to visit this lovely cafe. Made a reservation at 12pm on a Sunday & the staff served us right away. There were a few tables available. Service was great & food came within 10 minutes upon ordering. Ordered the Spring Pancake & Fried Chicken, which was surprisingly good! Fried chicken is well fried & seasoned, so is the pancake which is rich in flavour. The ranch sauce was a great touch. Next up was the Wagyu Beef Grain Bowl which was great as well. If you’re someone looking for a ‘green’ bowl, do give it a try. The Wagyu was cooked in medium doneness and suits the other ingredients in the bowl. For drinks we got an Ice Latte & Ice Matcha. Both drinks were great! The latte was to my liking, with the first sip giving a slight soup note to it. Matcha latte was very smooth, matcha taste was rather mild & you can taste the sweetness from the milk. Overall, good atmosphere & food but on the rather pricey side at $92.92 (with taxes) for 2. Will be interested to visit again for their popular French Toast. If you’re around the corner, do give them a try!

Food was okay, but disappointed with the drinks. I ordered fried eggs but it came runny like poached eggs and the ciabatta was toasted until it was too crispy to go with any foods in the breakfast platter. I was also taken aback that the ciabatta didn’t come with any butter as shown in the photo listed in the menu. On the other hand, the beef cheek was great, pastas were flavourful and portions were large. Mocha fell short with not much of a coffee taste (it tasted more like iced chocolate drink) and the artisanal teas were rather bland without much tea notes - definitely not worth paying the bucks for. The teas felt a lot more watered down and bland for the iced versions. There was also no waiting space when it was full house, customers started gathering at the entrance, making it difficult to enter and exit the cafe during lunch crowds.

+2