Dropped by Gim Tim for dinner with my parents, who had heard much about it but never really gotten down to trying. Just a little background on Gim Tim. It started out as a humble restaurant in its present location, at the corner of a row of shophouses in the midst of a sleepy HDB estate. From there, it has since grown into 4 outlets but with only the original outlet retaining the Gim Tim name.

If its your first visit, some topography skills are required as the restaurant is located behind a market in a quiet cul-de-sac facing a block of HDB flats. The interior holds no allure, save for the fact that its air conditioned.

Braised Boneless Duck with Sea Cucumber - We ordered this dish thinking that it was sufficient for 3 people. It turned out to be much bigger than expected ( I estimate it to be for about 5 pax) and we had to doggy bag the left overs. The duck meat was tender yet firm and fibrous while the sea cucumber was not too soft and chewy. Both came in generous servings. Just a little something that I learnt about the cooking procedure for this dish. The duck has to be fried first till crispy and then simmered in the gravy to let it absorb all the flavours. Thats why the duck meat still manages to remain firm when served.

Broccoli with Prawns - A most excellent dish with the sizeable prawns fresh and crunchy and the broccoli cooked just right. Simple yet tasty.

Home Made Beancurd with Spinach - A little crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, the homemade beancurd was decent, but still had room for improvements. One major flaw is its lack of taste, even with the spinach. I did like the mushrooms that came with it though, wildly refreshing yet not overpowering.

$75 for 3 pax might seem a little too much given the variety of food and cost of items. However, no one complained. Honestly, I think the quality and potions more than justify the price. Throw in good service minus the service charge and this place goes into my book of must return places.

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