Tucked away in a quiet corner of Sculpture Square is a new option for those looking for a relaxed space for a casual meal. Helmed by first-time restaurant owner Bjorn Shen, Artichoke takes over the space previously occupied by Secret Garden. The simply-designed indoor dining space is reminiscent of little neighbourhood cafes one would find in Melbourne, and this is complemented by an al fresco area perfect for pre-prandials on a cool evening.
 
The food here is just like the décor:  simple yet comforting. Familiar café offerings such as lamb burger and grilled chicken wings are made different with the use of fresh, quality ingredients (we were told that they take pride in using a high quality, award-winning olive oil from Australia in their cooking) — and a hint of spice. Bjorn’s love for Moorish cuisine is the inspiration behind many of the dishes, and a hint of Moroccan spices such as sumac, dukha, zaatar, chermoula can be tasted in most of the dishes. Some of our favourite dishes tried include a dish of pan-fried haloumi cheese with mushrooms, a bunch item of sausage with Bubble & Squeak and tomato chutney, and their succulent lamb burger, topped with a fried egg and house-made pistachio dukkah. Apart from the comforting classics on the menu, also try the daily specials written on the chalk board wall.
 
The menu is a little lacking in the dessert department, and service from the young team might be a trite inefficient at times. But the spirit is right and this little café, which opened on 6 August, shows good potential on the whole —and we certainly hope to see them grow. 161 Middle Road. Tel: 6336-6949
 

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