Since 2019 is about to come to a closure, it seems fitting for us to grieve over our losses of acclaimed eateries that have sadly departed our local shores — including those that are about to roll down their shutters for good.
Given Singapore’s competitive F&B industry with high rental fees and ever-changing consumer tastes, it is no wonder many chains have gradually lost their appeal. Though we have witnessed the rise, then fall, of well-loved establishments, rest assured there will be new, upcoming ones that are sure to take Singapore’s market by storm again!
So, brace yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions, as we announce 11 iconic eateries that we bid sayonara to this year.
When Pablo Cheese Tart first opened at Wisma Atria back in 2017, we remember seeing snaking queues along its storefront; everyone wanted a piece of that coveted cheese tart. Despite major fanfare, they ceased operations in March 2019 after 19 months.
Pablo fans can still look forward to their gooey, fluffy tarts at their overseas outlets: Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Canada and Philippines.
Despite opening to much hype three years ago, Gudetama Café has ended their contract with Sanrio Co., and will be shutting doors on 17 November 2019.
However, fans have one last chance before they wave goodbye to this languid egg. From 10 October to 17 November, Gudetama Café will be having a special discount on their egg-citing menu and merchandise.
Photo Credit: My Melody Cafe Singapore
Opened in 2018, My Melody Café is conveniently located right beside Gudetama Café in Suntec City. Just like the egg-themed establishment, My Melody Café is set to close on 17 November 2019, and will be offering discounted prices on their food and merchandise from 10 October onwards.
Sanrio-themed cafés have really taken a blow in Singapore; perhaps kawaii culture is not a hit with the locals here. We will be sad to see the hooded bunny go!
Hailing from Hokkaido, BAKE Cheese Tart took the nation by storm with its cheesy goodness. Their other outlets have shut down, with remaining flagship store at Ion Orchard set to close at the end of October this year.
We will definitely miss this Japanese tart for many months to come, though this is not the end of their journey. BAKE Cheese Tart is opening sister store Croquant Chou ZakuZaku, which will occupy BAKE’s former space!
Hello Kitty Orchid Garden was the first 24/7 Hello Kitty café to set up shop in Singapore! Well received by Hello Kitty and Dear Daniel fans, everyone was eager to try out their themed, Instagrammable goodies.
Yet, another one bites the dust, as we soon said our goodbyes to this well-loved feline paradise back on 8 February 2019.
#6 JPOT
Famed for their Singapore-style hotpot, Jpot is one hotpot chain we will never forget. Their signature soup broths, such as their Fish Head Soup and Jpot Superior Broth Soup, were so iconic, they remain undefeated as one of Singapore’s best hotpots!
They too, have closed down all their outlets. Their last outlet at Tampines 1 ceased operations on 16 June 2019.
We are all familiar with Non Entrée Desserts, a café specialising in innovative, local savoury-looking desserts. During the four years they have been here, they have greatly inspired our café scene.
Sadly, they have decided to shut down the business, and their last day is on 20 October 2019. Do drop by the café and try out their desserts one last time — we promise you won’t forget it.
Photo Credit: IndoChine Supertree
#8 INDOCHINE SUPERTREE
This iconic, elevated restaurant and bar has been an al fresco dining venue for many couples, best known for its scenic views and atas food. Despite being a successful eatery, Gardens by the Bay did not renew IndoChine’s lease.
IndoChine Supertree has closed its doors end of April this year and converted to an observatory deck. Thankfully, diners can still visit their CHIJMES outlet!
Esteemed among locals for serving homely Australian cuisine and coffee for over 20 years, many Dome Café regulars were sad to see them leave. They were even one of the first few cafes serving specialty coffee!
Dome Café originally had five outlets in Singapore, and their last branch at Parkway Parade officially pulled down its shutters on 23 June 2019.
We have witnessed the closure of various fast food chains and overseas diners in Singapore, and now Chili’s has joined its ranks. The American casual dining chain originally had four outlets here, but they have closed all of them as of 24 March 2019.
#11 GLORY CATERING PERANAKAN RESTAURANT
Acclaimed for their Nyonya dishes, popiah and kueh, Glory Catering Peranakan Restaurant has finally decided to call it a day after six decades of operating the eatery. Though they have shut their doors on 31 August 2019, the folks here are still providing catering services!
This iconic Katong restaurant will always remain in our hearts, and we will miss heading there for their traditional comfort food.