The Plump Frenchman

The Plump Frenchman is Zouk Group's move into everyday French dining, set on the ground floor of Guoco Midtown II a few minutes from Bugis MRT. The room is busy and noisy in the evenings, with an open rotisserie where chickens turn in full view of the tables.

The rotisserie is the reason to come. A whole or half roast chicken arrives with mesclun, sriracha and pickles, while the French chicken rice, a sharing dish for the table, pairs a whole bird with pilaf rice, prawns and uni cream. Elsewhere the menu sticks to brasserie standards: onion soup under Emmental and Gruyère, beef bourguignon braised with bacon and mushrooms, duck confit, foie gras terrine and a dry-aged tomahawk sold by weight. The chocolate mousse is served at the table.

It suits groups and casual celebrations more than a quiet date. Book through Chope, especially for dinner later in the week. Executive chef Lorenz Hoja oversees the kitchen. Prices are before tax and service, and there is a short cocktail list alongside the wines.