The pit masters from Red Eye Smokehouse definitely know a thing or two about quality meats. So much so that after eight years of slinging out smoked brisket and ribs, they’ve built up an appetite for steaks. And that gave way to Rex, a fun casual steakhouse in the up-and-coming Jalan Besar District, beside the prominent smokehouse.
Contrary to its laidback vibe, the steakhouse takes no prisoners when it comes to what they put onto their plates. From sourcing only high-quality cuts from reputable yet responsible farms down to how each cut is butchered to best reflect its qualities, it is all about attention to detail and keeping prices friendly.
Aside from typical cuts of ribeyes and striploins, steak purveyors can also look forward to lesser-known cuts (from $32) such as the flavoursome picanha, ultra-tender zabuton (Denver steak) and even the tri-tip (also known as the Poor Man’s Brisket). And as steakhouses go, pink in the middle with a nice charred bark isn’t much of a tall ask. At Rex, they arrive exactly as expected.
Smoking techniques are also introduced into dishes, whenever possible, as a reminder of their smokehouse origins. Think smoked tomato confit, which adds a ton of umami to the delicate whipped burrata and pistachio pesto starter ($20), and smoky beef brisket ($13), which comes layered with spiced potatoes and wrapped in a crispy pastry blanket. There is also piquant miso burnt butter paired with a medley of grilled vegetables and shavings of parmigiano reggiano ($17).
Other mains that should make your eat list are the smash cheeseburger ($17) and the brick chicken ($23). The former stars juicy beef patties with a bit of a rougher grind, stacked between lovely brioche buns while the latter is perfectly seasoned and cooked till succulent, served with burnt lemon on the side. And if you’re looking to wash down the grub, consider the affordable-priced alcoholic libations – house wines start from just $13 and crafted cocktails are priced from $18.
Great steaks don’t always need to cost an arm and a leg. Rex knows just that – and if honest good food isn’t enough to satisfy you, we don’t know what else will.
