Open Door Policy introduces new brunch items and an updated cocktail menu that will help start your day right.

Open Door Policy, established in 2012, is by no means a new joint. Located in the heart of the superbly trendy district of Tiong Bahru, it has amassed a strong following among the bean-seeking, brunch-eating bunch.

Stepping through its doors, we can see why Open Door Policy keeps people coming back. It’s a modern bistro that oozes a cozy, comfortable vibe for easy, breezy weekends. Glass panels on the roof let in just enough natural light for perfect #foodporn pictures that are guaranteed #straatsnacks worthy. Overall, Open Door Policy is warm and welcoming.

Decor aside, Open Door Policy also keeps people interested by reinventing itself. Lately, it has done so by introducing a new brunch menu planned by head chef Daniele Sperindio. We were invited to give it a go and we happily complied.

Chef Sperindio, who hails from Italy, introduced eight new dishes that showcase his knack for staying true to his European roots while incorporating Asian flavors. Fusion food is often a hit-or-miss affair, but the Roast Wagyu Rump (S$28) was mostly definitely a hit.

Roast Wagyu Rump

The dish is made up of two perfectly done poached eggs laid atop lightly dressed ice berg lettuce and ratte potatoes on tender wagyu rump. For an Asian twist, Sperindio draped his creation with a home-made chilli béarnaise.

Another memorable dish was the Smoked Salmon and Scrambled Eggs Sandwich (S$24) with caper berries and pickled shallot. All this is housed in a brioche bun, wrapped in a New York Times paper packaging.

Buttermilk Pancake with Creme Patisserie

For those who yearn for something sweet, the Buttermilk Pancake Crème Patisserie (S$22) is a must-try. Three pancakes are layered and covered in homemade citrus-flavored sour pastry crème. Home-made brown sugar and vanilla ice cream brings this dish to perfection with freeze-dried raspberries and poached strawberries adding a touch of tartness. Pancakes this fluffy are not to be trifled with.

Kentucky Mary

Nursing a hangover from Friday night and not in the mood for a cuppa on a Saturday morning (even though Open Door Policy serves a mean latte)? Well, then thank god for its Kentucky Mary (S$18), a spin on the Bloody Mary with a gently smoked BBQ-infused finish. The drink is served in a high ball with Redemption Bourbon, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, tomato mix and red wine, garnished with a celery stick and dehydrated bacon.

If all this sounds fancy, it’s because cocktails served at the restaurant are created under the guidance of Tippling Club Head Bartender, Kamil Foltan, who sets out to update classic cocktails with innovative techniques or interesting tastes. This also means that if you’re not a fan of the Bloody Mary, there are plenty other tipple offered at Open Door Policy, and you’re bound to find something you’ll really like.

Open Door Policy is located at 19 Yong Siak Street (Yong Siak View). Visit its website for opening hours and full menu