Having made an indelible mark on Singapore’s culinary landscape, Platypus Cantina recently embarked on a new chapter by relocating from its East Coast Road home to the bustling CityLink Mall. With its Mexican-inspired cuisine infused with a unique local twist, accompanied by imaginative cocktails and an invigorating atmosphere, the gastrobar aspires to captivate the taste buds and ignite the senses of both locals and tourists alike. Through its unwavering dedication to delivering a vibrant, flavourful, and diverse dining experience, Platypus Cantina embodies the essence of culinary excellence.
Born from a shared love for exquisite food and beverages, Platypus Cantina has transformed from a humble passion project in 2009 to an extraordinary culinary venture. Originally known as Platypus Test Kitchen and situated in the vibrant heart of Singapore’s CBD, it enticed diners with its array of pasta dishes and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The next chapter unfolded three years later when the establishment took on a thrilling new persona as Platypus Lobster Shack & Food Bar, captivating patrons with its affordable gourmet lobster rolls and irresistible rice bowl creations.
From there, the team expanded their ventures by introducing Platypus Kitchen at Bugis Junction in 2010. This new establishment aimed to provide patrons with a comprehensive dining experience centred around exquisite pasta creations and a delectable selection of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Driven by an unwavering commitment to innovation, the Platypus team embarked on an exciting culinary odyssey, reimagining the venue once more, when Platypus Cantina then emerged as a gem nestled within the vibrant surroundings of East Coast Road. While introducing a fusion of creative cocktails and an extensive menu of Mexican-inspired delights, the gastrobar remained rooted in its origins, preserving the popular mainstays and signature drinks which has captured the hearts of the local community.
Mexican-Inspired Dishes, Exceptional Drinks
At the all-new Platypus Cantina, the full-fledged kitchen now offers a menu that is a testament to nothing short of culinary excellence – from traditional favourites to innovative Mexican classics with a local twist. The Quesadillas with Braised Tempeh topping ($13.90++) is a delicious and light vegetarian option; or choose from the Pulled Pork Carnitas ($14.90++), Beef Carne Asada ($14.90++) or Pollo Asado Chicken ($13.90++) toppings for more meaty alternatives.
The Mac ‘N’ Cheese Platter and Tomatillo Rice Bowls come with a variety of toppings including Spiced Beef Rendang, Glazed Asian Pork Belly or Tempeh as a nod to local fare, while the Adobo Style Mutton Stew ($22.90++), Beef Caldillo Soup ($22.90++) and crowd-favourite Ale- Guajillo Seafood Soup ($29.90++) always makes for a warm and comforting meal. The Cantina also serves a wide range of tacos to cater to the most discerning tastebuds.
True to the saying that food is best when shared, Platypus Cantina offers a delectable medley of tapas designed for communal eating. Their selection features a tantalising array of flavours and textures to savour and share. From the fiery and succulent Angry Chicken Wings ($13.90++) to the crispy Beer Battered Shrimp Poppers (18.90++), each bite is a burst of culinary pleasure. For those seeking a touch of luxury, the Char-Grilled Truffle Beef Cubes ($24.90++) offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience with their tender beef and truffle-infused goodness.
Seafood lovers can indulge in the Colorado Calamari Rings ($18.90++), Mexican Soft Shell Crabby ($26.90++), and Flame-Charred Baby Octopus ($18.90++), each showcasing the vibrant and bold flavours of the ocean. With these delightful tapas options, Platypus Cantina invites everyone to come together, savour the moment, and create lasting memories over a shared culinary adventure.
Platypus Cantina, renowned for its extensive variety of Margaritas and Micheladas in the East, has carried forward its reputation to its new location. It is an extraordinary voyage of taste and innovation as a team of visionary bartenders rewrite the rules of mixology in their relentless pursuit of innovation— constantly exploring, creating, and redefining the familiar vintage classics. These master craftsmen have transformed the traditional Margarita into a transcendent experience. By expertly balancing freshly squeezed lime juice with the silky allure of Tequila Reposado, they create refreshing elixirs that transport patrons to sun-drenched shores.
However, it is their signature creation, the Hell’s Angel Spicy Margarita ($14++), that truly steals the show, offering a fiery delight crafted with precision, with Mexican chili, succulent pineapple, juicy mango, tantalizing spices, and the subtle sweetness of agave syrup. Their Micheladas are a fusion of diverse sauces, aromatic spices, fiery chilis, and luscious fruit purees, creating unconventional masterpieces. In addition, their celebration of Mexico’s revered rum tradition shines through their Classic Dark & Stormy (from $14++), a blend of El Dorado 12-year-old rum, handcrafted ginger syrup, and a zing of lime.
Daily Promotions and Happy Hours
In addition to its exceptional food and beverage offerings, Platypus Cantina is dedicated to making each day an adventure. From Members’ Monday to Taco Tuesday, Wondrous Wednesday, Thirsty Thursday, Fiesta Friday, Shocking Saturday and Sunny Sunday, the establishment hosts a variety of special promotions to satisfy every craving and quench every thirst. The restaurant’s Happy Hours, from 12pm – 8pm daily, provide an enticing opportunity to indulge in a tipple or two (or more) at an affordable price, starting from as little as $8++.
Adding to its appeal, Platypus Cantina offers daily lunch specials with savings of up to 50% from Monday to Friday. These specials showcase fresh salads, savoury burritos, tacos, ensalada, asado, and Oaxaca hot chicken, with specific highlights on Tuesdays to Thursdays. On Mondays, the Platypus Cantina’s one-of-a-kind pasta creations steal the show. Indulge in Cheesy Black Pepper Duck Spaghetti, Creamy Truffle Porcini Fettuccine, or the beloved classic beef meatball spaghetti, all priced as low as $9++ per serving.
“Platypus Cantina is about more than just great food and drinks. We want to craft an experience that lingers in the hearts and minds of our customers,” says Grace Chua, General Manager of Platypus Cantina. “The Platypus Cantina Experience is an intoxicating fusion of good food and drinks, vibrant ambience and fabulous service. We strive to exceed our customers’ expectations, leaving them with unforgettable memories that last until their next visit,” she continues.
Platypus Cantina caters to a variety of occasions, be it a relaxed gathering with friends, a special occasion, or a joyful celebration. With its fusion of Mexican-inspired soul food, delectable tapas, exceptional beverages, and unparalleled hospitality, Platypus Cantina offers an immersive and unforgettable gastronomic experience. For more information on Platypus Cantina, visit www.platypuscantina.net
