The Secret Garden By Zeekri: A Halal French Bistro Experience in Kampong Glam on Baghdad Street
I’ve walked past 19 Baghdad Street countless times, usually drawn by the familiar, comforting scents of rich spices and teh tarik near Bugis. But on a rainy Tuesday afternoon around 2 PM, I decided to step into a completely different world. The Secret Garden By Zeekri is a halal French-inspired restaurant located in the heart of Kampong Glam, Singapore.
This charming secret garden bistro offers an elegant floral-themed décor that gives the space a garden-meets-bistro vibe with warm sunlight filtering through.
Walking in, the ground-level seating immediately felt a bit tight. The tables near the pastry counter, where you can find an enticing selection of pastries and coffee, are quite close together. I asked the host if I could be seated upstairs, and it was definitely the right call. The upper level is much more spacious, serene, and conversation-friendly, making it feel like a little home away from home.
Savouring Classic French Flavours and Starters
Once settled, I started with the classic French Onion Soup ($14), a popular starter on their all day dining menu. It arrived steaming hot, accompanied by toasted bread topped with melted mozzarella cheese. The broth was deeply savory and rich with sweet, heavily caramelized onions, offering the comforting taste you want on a gloomy afternoon.
For my mains, I chose the Truffle Mushroom Pasta ($28), but the menu also offers a delightful smoked duck aglio olio, a unique fusion dish that combines smoked duck with garlic and chili spaghetti. The moment the server set the plate down, an earthy, luxurious scent of truffle completely took over the table. The pasta was cooked to a perfect al dente, coated beautifully with a rich cream sauce.
However, the sauce was a bit heavy for a single serving, so sharing is a good choice if you want to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Explore Diverse Culinary Traditions in Singapore
If you enjoy the fusion of different culinary traditions, Singapore’s dining scene offers a wide range of experiences—from Peranakan to French fusion. To discover more of these exciting dining options, check out Top Singapore Restaurants for the best spots to satisfy your culinary cravings.
Fresh Salads and Local-Inspired Desserts at The Secret Garden
The menu also features fresh salads, such as the mesclun salad accompanied by cherry tomatoes and a light dressing, perfect to balance the richer mains. I intentionally saved room for dessert, specifically to try their famous Ondeh Cake ($10). This pastry is a brilliant nod to local flavors, blending pandan sponge with coconut and gula melaka, offering a light and fragrant sweetness that rounds off the meal beautifully.
Excellent Service, Reservations, and Practical Tips
The service throughout my meal was stellar. The staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely hospitable, pacing the courses to let you enjoy the taste and ambiance of this secret garden restaurant. If you plan to visit on a Saturday or Sunday, making a reservation is essential, as wait times can easily stretch past 30 minutes.
Expect to spend around $30 to $60 per person for an a la carte dinner. They also offer weekday lunch sets that are more wallet-friendly at around $18++. One practical tip: for bills under $50, payment is by cash or PayNow only; card payments are accepted above that amount.
Closing Thoughts
The Secret Garden By Zeekri beautifully bridges classic French bistro fare with Singapore’s vibrant halal dining scene. Located on Baghdad Street in Kampong Glam, this restaurant offers a cozy, intimate setting perfect for intimate dates or leisurely catch-ups over coffee, toast, and pastries.
Ideal for: Diners seeking a varied all-day menu with a selection of starters, main courses, and desserts served in a warm and refined atmosphere.
Not recommended if: You need a quick meal, prefer generous portion sizes, or are dining with a large, lively group.
Don’t miss the chance to find this hidden gem and enjoy a unique taste experience accompanied by warm service and a charming ambiance filled with sunlight streaming through the floral decor.