This review took place in November 2018 and is based on a visit to the restaurant without the restaurant's knowledge. For more on BK's review policy, click here.

Hidden behind a line of dense trees and bushes surrounding 137 Pillars Suites, Phrom Phong’s hip all-day-dining cafe feels like something of a hidden secret.

If you happen to find your way in, the light-filled, boutique resort-like space is charming: colonial-style tiles and old-school explorers' equipment sit amid soaring glass walls, high ceilings, cool marble tables and herringbone floors.

The place has become the neighborhood's go-to brunch spot, and it’s hard to argue with the creative classics they have on offer—fluffy quinoa pancakes (B250) come layered with grilled bananas and olfactory whipped orange butter; the Spanish-style farmer’s omelet comes packed with boerewors sausage, goat cheese and roasted pimento pepper (B290).

The eggs Benedict (B340) is served with smoked salmon and sautéed spinach on a buttery baguette, though we found the hollandaise to be liquidy and overly tart compared to the creamy, slightly sweet sauce we expected.

Moving on to the main menu, you get an even greater selection of comfort dishes from around the world—something we find far more exciting than their brunch menu. The grilled butter fish tastes amazing with its crisp skin coated in a crunchy olive crust, piled on top of smooth lemon-basil mashed potatoes (B520); the baked Petit Camembert (B550) with rosemary and truffle oil is a must order with its rich and creamy, almost custard-like, interior wrapped in a slightly chewy, golden exterior—perfect for dipping breadsticks.

However, it can be hit-or-miss—the Middle Eastern-inspired roasted chicken seems to be heavily coated in sumac spice (B520), but tastes under-seasoned and a little too dry, whereas the Bali-inspired beef rendang (slow-simmered beef chuck with rice and sauteed veg, B440) offers a nice balance of fiery spices.

For dessert, an explosion of chocolate lava cake (B280) sounds pretty simple, but is made something special with the addition of rich and creamy whipped mascarpone and honey ice cream. The mango pannacotta (B280) with vanilla-infused banana and aromatic coconut sauce is a comforting, smooth, treat with Thai-inspired flavors.

While the sleek, light-filled space and attentive hotel service make for a decent dining spot, we wouldn’t recommend this over Toby’s or Roast for brunch—instead, head here for lunch or dinner for a taste of their real strengths.