Forget the predictable Saturday brunch formula, where the drinks often outshine the food. Tattu’s Black Dragon Brunch takes a very different approach – less standard fare and more an event, with striking surroundings, carefully crafted dishes and cocktails that immediately sets it apart from the crowd.
Served beneath Tattu’s famous blossom tree, the Black Dragon Brunch is designed to be shared, with a series of dishes arriving in waves alongside 90 minutes of free-flowing drinks. Here, the atmosphere strikes a very appealing balance between celebratory and sophisticated, with a live DJ providing the soundtrack throughout, adding energy without overpowering conversation.
Within half an hour of being seated, the restaurant was packed with diners, creating a lively buzz that only added to the sense of occasion. And despite the music and cocktails, there was something refreshingly grown-up about the experience, with groups of friends and couples lingering over lunch and the whole afternoon feeling stylish rather than rowdy.
We opted for the Silver package, which includes cocktails such as Aperol Spritz, Espresso Martinis and Tattu’s signature Koko Tattu – a tropical blend of Takamaka coconut, lychee and lime that proved dangerously easy to drink. Food arrives over two courses before the finale dessert. As a vegetarian, I was pleased to discover a meat-free menu that felt thoughtfully created rather than an afterthought. The Wild Mushroom and Black Truffle Spring Rolls were crisp and deeply savoury, while the Sesame Salad provided freshness and crunch. The standout dish, however, was the Kung Po Tofu, which delivered plenty of flavour and texture, with pineapple, green beans and lotus adding sweetness and bite to the rich sauce.
Across the table, my dining companion tackled the main menu, opting for the Wok Fired Angry Bird chicken as his main. It arrived glistening in a sesame honey soy glaze, packed with cashews, roasted chilli and just enough heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming the dish. Earlier highlights included the Royal Koi Fish Gau and the aromatic duck spring rolls, while the steamed jasmine rice and salted edamame provided the perfect foil to the bolder flavours.
The meal concluded with Tattu’s Milk Chocolate Dragon Egg, a beautifully presented dessert combining chocolate, coconut, passion fruit and mango. Like much of the menu, it delivered a touch of drama without sacrificing flavour. Service was also exceptional throughout. Staff were warm, knowledgeable and attentive, effortlessly keeping drinks topped up and dishes arriving, yet at no point did we feel hurried.
What makes the Black Dragon Brunch particularly successful is that it never feels like a compromise between food and entertainment. The cocktails are excellent, the setting remains one of the most visually striking in the city and the food is genuinely worth turning up for. For special occasions, celebrations or a leisurely Saturday with friends, Tattu has created a brunch experience that feels indulgent, stylish and distinctly different.
You’ll find Tattu at 18 Barwick Street and the Black Dragon Brunch is available on Saturdays, from 12.15pm.
