I have actually been to Novous at the National Museum before with some girlfriends and we tried their degustation menu at the full price. I recall not liking it and finding the menu a little too interesting for my taste buds so I really can’t fathom what ‘possessed’ me into making a reservation here again for Restaurant Week. 2nd chance perhaps? Whatever the reason, the verdict is the same, possibly with more conviction this time. I came with 2 different girlfriends and they echo my thoughts.
The ambience at Novous is actually really nice which makes it quite a pity that their food just isn’t up to standard. The decor is classy, cosy and quite perfect for a romantic dinner or a girly night out. The high ceiling makes it rather grand and the terrace outside makes for a good post-dinner chillout. The bar is also has a rather exquisite vibe to it, and the place doesn’t feel local.
So what’s wrong with the food? I think the chef tries to be creative and combines a unique mix of ingredients with every dish. Each item on the menu has your familiar basics but prepared in a way that just doesn’t work. Everything tastes either bad, bland or weird. It was just difficult to enjoy the food. I remember when the main course came, I barely touched it. I believe I took 2 spoons and told the waiter to clear it. I don’t like to waste food, especially not when I am paying so much for it (there was an additional for Novous so it was at $55++/head)! But I just couldn’t eat it.
Whilst the staff weren’t particularly rude, they also lacked an enthusiasm or positive energy. I get it that it is a fine dining restaurant and I wasn’t expecting the waiters to be jumping and hopping around, but I guess there was just a lack of “life”; everyone just seemed listless and going with the motion.
I did like how they have a piece of cardboard explaining each dish they served. I thought that was a nice touch.
I’m really sorry to be giving this verdict but Novous is a no-go for me. I won’t be going back and I won’t recommend it. Maybe for drinks.
