There is a hidden backyard garden café at Cluny Court; to uncover its entrance, you will have to first walk down a bamboo-flanked pathway. And those who make the trek will be greeted by the idyllic alfresco deck of Prairie by Craftsmen – a sunroom-inspired space filled with various potted greens.
Some of the best seats in the house are located underneath the skylights, dotted with overhanging air plants. Settle down outside to soak in the botanical charm of the café, or choose to head indoors (equally cosy) to escape the heat.
It is unfortunate that the café does not have an all-day brunch offering; Prairie by Craftsmen rewards early risers with a breakfast spread that runs from 8.30am to 11.45am. Drop by after, and expect to tuck into the usual hearty selection of pasta, sandwiches, burgers, and meats.
Herb-dusted calamari ($12) makes for an addictive snack to nibble on while waiting for the mains to arrive. The roasted half poulet ($26) is a decent showing of a tender organic corn-fed bird, served alongside roasted vegetables and sautéed potatoes. Steak sandwich ($27), served with waffle fries, and might require some extra chewing from the medium-done ribeye.
The café is opened by the team behind Craftsmen Specialty Coffee, which could be a reason why the drinks menu fared better. Arabica beans are used in its espresso-based brews, which run the range from the classic flat white to cups of latte flavoured with coconut, macadamia nut, butterscotch, and more. Not in the mood for caffeine? Sip on the iced taro latte ($8) instead.
