“Big O”, as its name suggests plays on innuendo, deliver to its patrons a delectable dining experience. Although a sister company to NYDC, The Big O holds its own, delivering fine cuisine and prides itself on its wide selection of pastries and menu selection which tends primarily to young executives. Named after its popular cheesecake, Big O, has seen its fair share of celebrity diners like Andre De Cruz to international rock-band group, Linkin Park.

• The Vibe
  Big O has a contemporary, open concept layout. Comfortable, wood furnishing complements the overhead lightings ensures both comfort and privacy. The use of warm colours like orange and red, accentuated with well-placed lighting, creates a sense of rejuvenation for in-coming patrons. Overall, Big O gives a homely and lively feel for an enjoyable dining experience.

• The Food
  To quench one's thirst, one might want to try the smoothie. Perky “Walking on Sunshine” ($8.95) is a tangy, zesty smoothie that brings on a refreshing, tropical delight. The ice-cool concoction tingles the senses and revitalizes one's being. Big O carries a formidable selection of smoothie concoctions to choose from and is priced at an average of $10.

  For a choice of appetizers, one would want to try the restaurant's recommended “Smoked Salmon and Organic Egg Salad.” ($10.95) Pleasing to the eye, the smoked salmon was neither too dry, nor too salty. The smoke salmon, wrapped a warm poached egg with a runny yolk centre. Paired with fresh salad greens, diced tomatoes and drizzled lightly in dressing, this irresistible yet healthy dish, reveals a mesmerizing explosion of flavours for the tastebud.

  The Crispy Fried Tofu and Portobello Mushroom burger ($13.80) is a popular choice amongst the ladies as well as vegetarians. Dive into the hearty sized, Portobello Mushroom ‘buns', stacked between golden fried to-fu, fresh greens and alfalfa. The warm and juicy Portobello mushrooms gives off an aromatic flavour, sending diners craving for more. This popular dish, however, is subject to availability of large Portobello mushrooms, which needs to be at least 4 ˝ inches in diameter to pass Big O's quality control.
  
  For the taste of the sea, diners can satisfy their desire with the “Pan Fried Cod Fish Fillet” ($18.60), Big O's best selling dish. The codfish fillet was superbly prepared, drizzled in a delectable light, cream sauce topped with raisins, giving the dish an added sweetness. Seared to perfection, the cod sports a thin crispy exterior while encasing a flavourful interior. The meat peels away gently with each attack of the fork, revealing more of the juicy interior.

  Big O, like NYDC, carries a wide selection of cakes, made exclusively by their bakery. Most of its cakes are themed around chocolate and are a pleasant complement to end any meal on a sweet note. The cakes are priced on average at $9.95 a slice.

• The Service
  Service at Big O was prompt, friendly and the staff are indeed knowledgeable on the dishes. Big O advocates training for all employees and cultivates a warm friendly ambience amongst the staff. As always, happy staff equates better service, hence a better dining experience for diners.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Big O
With the open concept and constant flow of pedestrians in front of Big O, along with louder patrons from across the diner; the exquisitely prepared food may not have the exclusivity and ambience it deserves. Nonetheless, the signature dishes are worth an order in terms of its value for money for the quality provided; however, commonly seen items in western menus can take a pass. Diners with bigger appetites take heed; main courses are just barely enough to fill your appetite. Notably, in terms of quality and comparative pricing, there are better alternatives available. One ought to look out for Big O's frequent, fabulous promotions, to get the best deals and offers available.