NAE:UM

Taking inspiration from Seoul's rich and varied ethnic heritage, NAE:UM offers the best of both worlds: a harmony of Western techniques and Korean flavours shaped by decades of international culture in South Korea's capital city.

The name NAE:UM roughly translates to ‘fragrance that evokes memories' and the restaurant embodies just that- Creating dishes that would transport diners back in time.

yourwinefix nae:um chef louis

Originally from Gangnam, a fast-paced neighborhood in Seoul, Chef Louis Han is the man behind the airy space and golden wood finishes. Growing up, he lived in a fusion of Western cultures and Korean traditions, which shapes his cooking style today. Before becoming the head chef of the former Kimme restaurant in Singapore, his culinary wanderlust took him to places like Abu Dhabi.

The idea for NAE:UM began around the end of 2019, and Chef Han took a year off to get back in touch with his hometown in Seoul. Having spent six months as sous chef of two Michelin-starred Mosu, Seoul, he decided to return to Singapore to bring his restaurant to life.
Even in the midst of the pandemic, he stuck to his guns, and we are thankful he did.

yourwinefix naeum bream

Along the streets of Telok Ayer, the brightly lighted shop house is accented with minimal decorations, overlooking an open kitchen and 28 seats.

More than a simple course-by-course menu, every episode of Nauem's episodic menu tells a story of food and inspiration for Chef Louis. The menu is dependent on seasonal ingredients, so it may change if you're lucky.

The restaurant's current episode 2 is titled Mountain Range, which offers 6 - 8 courses and petit fours for $168 - $218. Fancy a sip while you dine? Non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages pairings are available at $78 - $188.

No stranger to the press, reservations are required for this popular dinner joint. Be sure to book ahead and have yourself a seoul-ful dinner!

RESTAURANT AMBIENCE:

yourwinefix nauem ambience