A Taste of Tranquility: Weekend Brunch at Air CCCC in Dempsey’s Verdant Setting

Surrounded by the rich greenery of Dempsey Hill, AIR Circular Campus & Cooking Club (Air CCCC) is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful contrast to the lively city life of Singapore. As you stroll along the winding footpath through the lush gardens and expansive lawns, it’s hard to believe you’re still in the heart of the city. The serene ambiance creates a sense of being far removed from the urban landscape. When we visited, the sky was gray and the weather was rainy and gloomy, which added a certain moody charm to the place. However, I can imagine how stunning it would look against a clear blue sky, with the greenery even more vibrant and inviting.

The main dining area is located within the historic CSC Dempsey Clubhouse, a structure dating back to the 1970s that beautifully preserves its traditional charm while incorporating modern elements. Architects David Gianotten and Shinji Takagi have skillfully designed the space to feel open and connected to its natural surroundings. Large windows offer uninterrupted views of the lush greenery outside, while the timber that flows from the outdoor footpath to the main floor creates a harmonious transition between the exterior and interior, merging the two environments seamlessly.

We opted for a weekend lunch, where the menu offered a two-course meal for $58 per person or $68 with dessert. To fully experience what Air has to offer, we decided to sample a variety of dishes. For starters, we had Grilled Prawns with pickled radishes and Marinated Heirloom Tomatoes. While both were delicious, the highlight was the Young Salad—crisp, refreshing, and bursting with freshness in every bite. It was the perfect way to begin our meal.

When it came to the main courses, we opted for the Glazed Kampong Chicken with snake beans, lemongrass, and chunky herb chimichurri. Though I had hoped it would be a good choice for the kids, the dish had a bit of spice that might not suit younger palates. The Grilled Vegetable Frittata, however, was an excellent option for the kids—it was so tender that it practically melted in the mouth.

We also added Steamed Heirloom Rice with roasted koji vinegar to our order, and it turned out to be a big hit with the kids. The rice had a woody, smoked flavor that was both unique and comforting, making it a delightful addition to our meal.

The star of the meal, however, was the Grilled Line Caught Sea Bass. The sauce was a revelation—I'm convinced there was coconut milk involved, lending it a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complemented the fish.

One area for improvement is the absence of a dedicated kids' menu. Although the Grilled Vegetable Frittata and Steamed Heirloom Rice were nice additions and worked well for the little ones, a few more child-friendly options would be a great enhancement. Overall, our experience at Air was a delightful journey through flavors and nature. The setting, combined with the carefully curated menu, makes for a memorable dining experience that feels miles away from the city, even though it’s right in the heart of Dempsey.