Before the arrival of Western sweets, Singapore had nonya kueh. Captivatingly colourful, scrumptiously sweet (and sometimes, savoury), whimsically wobbly, strikingly shaped, and all-around alluring, nonya kuehs have managed to defy the attrition of time, and has firmly ingrained itself into the nation’s collective palate.

Nonya kueh (or Malay kuih) is a type of dessert created in the South-East Asian region, serving as bite-sized snacks for the peckish to intersperse throughout the day. More than a tea-time snack of the elderly or an occasional treat your adoring grandparents indulged you with, nonya kueh forms an integral part of the Peranakan culinary heritage.

While many traditional desserts are struggling to stay relevant to present-day dessert preferences, nonya kuehs have not only seamlessly transitioned into modernity, the recent resurgence of interest in Peranakan fare has skyrocketed them to the forefront of our consciousness as well.

Whether you’re kueh-ving for a classic treat or something with a more contemporary spin (or even both!), we have put together a guide for you to track down all your favourite kuehs and more!

Photo Credit: https://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/ah_meng/

AH MENG

A place with no shortage of good food, Hong Lim Market hides another gem: Ah Meng. Huddled on the second floor, passersby who wander into visual range are instinctively drawn to the array of kueh and the perpetual fragrance of coconut.

Renowned for having kuehs with delightfully velveteen textures, some regulars swear by the Sweet Potato Ondeh Ondeh for having the optimal ratio of skin to filling, while others consider the Gula Melaka Tapioca Kueh with its literal burst of caramel their favourite treat instead.

Block 531A Upper Cross Street
Hong Lim Food Centre, #02-45
Singapore 051531
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/babachewssg/

BABA CHEWS

The resident restaurant of Hotel Indigo, Baba Chews is notable for effortlessly converging traditional Peranakan flavours with Western and local flavours. While the restaurant does not serve traditional nonya kuehs, the one kueh they do serve has received nothing short of stellar reviews from locals and visitors alike: Kueh Durian.

Inspired by kueh dadar, the dish comprises of a wonderfully creamy durian mousse wrapped in aromatic pandan crepes before being topped with a scoop of honeyed gula melaka ice cream. A perfectly nectarous treat!

86 East Coast Road
Katong Square
Singapore 428788
Tel: +65 6723 2025
Daily: 6.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/f/fClX3PKU

BOROBUDUR SNACKS SHOP

On the exterior is a weatherworn, greying shop front that looks like it has been taken straight out of a time machine; in contrast, a bright, vivid assortment of neatly lined nonya kuehs sits just by the entrance. This is one of Bedok’s best-kept secrets: a longstanding Indonesian sweets specialist that serves kuehs with tastes from a bygone era.

While their traditional kuehs – they have uncommon classics too! – are fantastic, the all-time customer favourite is their Durian Ambon with its rich durian flavour held within a spongy, airy texture.

537 Bedok North Street 3
Singapore 460537
Tel: +65 6442 7637
Daily: 6.30am – 6.30pm

Nearest Station: Bedok North

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/candlenut.sg/

CANDLENUT

The first Peranakan restaurant to achieve the prestigious Michelin Star, Candlenut’s fare is one that celebrates the time-honoured flavours of Peranakan cuisine with the occasional modern twist.

Wishing to share a taste of his childhood, and wanting to show the world that our humble dessert is worthy of a spot in a Michelin-starred establishment, Chef Malcom offers a handmade, elevated version of his favourite kueh, the kueh salat, every night in his restaurant. The catch? Due to the laborious process, only 20 plates are available daily.

17A Dempsey Road
Singapore 249676
Tel: 1800 304 2288 (Local calls only)
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown

Photo Credit: http://www.harrianns.com/

HARRIANNS NONYA TABLE

A homegrown family brand, HarriAnns started in 1940s as an unassuming pushcart business in the Tiong Bahru district. Since then, the brand has blossomed into a chain that offers not just nonya kueh, but several self-contained Peranakan mains as well. Despite that, the linchpin of the brand still resides in its nonya kueh, each carefully handcrafted with cherished family recipes.

Their Rainbow Lapis Kueh is the brand’s unexpected signature; boldly vibrant and delicately supple, the best way to fully appreciate this treat is to savour it by layer.

230 Victoria Street
Bugis Junction Towers, #01-01A
Singapore
Tel: +65 6238 1200
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 8.30pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 8.30pm
Nearest Station: Bugis
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: www.hjmaimunah.com/

HJH MAIMUNAH

One of the more acclaimed nasi padang establishments in Singapore, Hjh Maimunah serves homecooked-styled Malaysian and Indonesian nasi Padang. Besides savoury dishes, you can find one of the most extensive collections of traditional kueh in Singapore.

With a variety of thirty available, you can find everything from the popular kueh kaswi to rarer alternatives like the kueh wajik (a saccharine, sticky glutinous rice morsel). The secret to the almost magical consistency and quality of the kueh? You can thank Chef Supinah, the brand’s dessert chef for her unwavering exacting standards!

11 & 15 Jalan Pisang
Singapore 199078
Mon to Sat: 7am – 8pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Tel: +65 6297 4294
Nearest Station: Bugis
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

JI XIANG CONFECTIONARY

For fans of ang ku kueh, listen up. An ang ku kueh specialist (their menu only comprises of the oval-shaped treat), Ji Xiang has been serving this snack from 1985, gradually reshaping the public’s perception of it with their palatable rendition since.

Adopting the nonya style, the skin of the kueh here is chewier, providing a more gratifying mouthfeel. As of writing, it has a selection of 8 flavours that include the traditional peanut filling and sweet bean paste, to more modern additions like coconut and their seasonal durian variants.

Block 1 Everton Park
#01-33
Singapore 081001
Tel: +65 6223 1631
Mon to Sat: 9am – 5pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Outram Park

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/kimchookuehchang/

KIM CHOO KUEH CHANG

“A taste of culture, borne from traditions” – since 1945, Kim Choo Kueh Chang has been a proud custodian of Singapore’s nonya history and culture, presenting the public with an authentic, homely taste of Peranakan fare.

In addition to its outstanding rice dumplings, Kim Choo still produces old-school nonya kuehs. Although the selection is less robust today, the kitchen handcrafts each kueh with unpretentious precision, doling out flavours reminiscent of a relative’s kitchen at reasonable prices.

109/111 East Coast Road
Singapore 428801
Tel: +65 6741 2125
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Marine Parade
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/KUEHGARDEN011245/

KUEH GARDEN

Another ang ku kueh specialist, Kueh Garden has taken a similar approach to Ji Xiang by including a choice selection of new flavours alongside its traditional offerings. Unlike Ji Xiang’s, the skin of the kuehs here are thinner; a bite will split the skin apart easily, revealing the thick layer filling within.

Besides the usual red bean, green bean and peanut flavours, the brand’s more unique flavours include coffee and green tea for caffeine lovers, and a creamy durian version that is available year-round.

348 Jurong East Avenue 1
Singapore 600348
Tel: +65 6294 9182
Mon: 7.30am – 3.00pm
Tue to Sat: 7.30am – 7.00pm
Fri: 7.30am – 5.00pm
Nearest Station: Chinese Garden

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/LekLimNonyaCake/

LEK LIM NONYA CAKE CONFECTIONARY

Food heritage brands in Singapore are naturally disappearing, with many younger generations scions unwilling to take on the task of upholding typically laborious traditional techniques and methods. This could have been the fate of Lek Lim too if current third-generation owner, Gavin, did not trade his corporate job to take over his parents’ legacy.

Besides their glistening, sizable ang ku kuehs and usual collection of sweet nonya treats, the brand offers a mixture of equally appetising savoury morsels – including their chive kueh and soon kueh – as well.

Bedok North Street
Block 84, #01-21
Singapore 188017
Tel: +65 6449 0815
Mon to Sat: 5am – 5pm
Sun: 5am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Tanah Merah
**  Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@phoebetingsy

LINA CONFECTIONARY & TRADING

Most of the kuehs in Singapore have a predominant local Peranakan or Malay influence. But for those seeking treats with more of an Indonesian twist – usually holding a sweeter profile – besides Hjh Maimunah, Lina in Alexandra can provide you with kuehs moulded closer to the flavours of our south.

Since 1989, Lina has been hand-making all their confectionaries, an arduous tradition that endures even today. Besides their Steamed Rainbow Lapis and lapis cakes, try their kueh dadar for a tongue-tingling taste experience.

124 Bukit Merah Lane 1
Singapore 150124
Tel: +65 6271 6996
Daily: 9.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/MakkoTeckNeo/

MAKKO TECK NEO

Hidden in the quiet estate of Telok Blangah is a Peranakan café specialising in nonya comfort food. Despite its modest choice of location, Makko Teck Neo always seems to have at least one occupied table in its premises, a testament to the quality of its fare.

Featuring a full-fledged kueh menu, take your pick from 16 distinct sweet and savoury morsels from Kueh Talam to Rempah Udang. Typically served in either pairs or triplets, these desserts are both wallet-friendly and marvellous for sharing with your tablemates.

Block 35 Telok Blangah Rise
#01-303
Singapore 090035
Tel: +65 6275 1330
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 9.45am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Telok Blangah

MILK MOONS

The sister brand of Chalk Farm, Milk Moons is a spinoff that focuses on the colourful flavours of the region while retaining the rustic charm the siblings’ cakes are known for.

While the display tends to be filled with a satisfying sight of perfectly smooth and round cakes, closer observation shows that some of these creations are really just enormous cylinders of kuehs. For a truly indulgent kueh experience, grab a hefty slice (or even the entire cake) of their bestselling kueh salat and kueh lapis.

391 Orchard Road
Takashimaya, #B208-5
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65
Daily: 10am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/MollyNonyaCakeandConfectionaryPteLtd/

MOLLY’S NONYA CAKE & CONFECTIONARY

A true-blue family-run establishment, after Molly’s husband-wife founding duo retired, their dream to propagate the flavours of nonya treats to the nation was inherited by their son and daughter, both of whom continue to serve their parents’ 50-year-old recipes today.

Packed shoulder to shoulder, to disperse any potential choice paralysis from their very respectable offering of kuehs, try their ondeh ondeh – with a coconut-infused gula melaka centre – and their special Red Bean Lapis for a taste of a home away from home.

104 Hougang Avenue 1
#01-1121
Singapore 530104
Tel: +65 6286 4234
Mon to Sat: 5am – 7.30pm
Sun: 5am – 7.30pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

Photo Credit: https://www.mrskueh.com/

MRS KUEH

There are many ways a parent can showcase their love. Perhaps it’s through gift-giving, or maybe it’s through bringing their kids on adventures; for others, it’s through food. That was the case for the real Mrs Kueh, the mother and inspiration of the brand’s founder, Maureen.

Effortless creative, stylishly contemporary and a wicked cook – these are the distilled values that Maureen hopes to impart into her sweets. Available only online or at Clan Café, the lovingly crafted classic kueh salat is a luxurious treat not to be missed.

97 Frankel Avenue
Singapore 458222
Mon to Fri: 11am – 5pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Kembangan
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.rainbowlapis.com/

RAINBOW LAPIS

No prizes for guessing what Rainbow Lapis’ signatures are. (Not just the Rainbow Lapis, but its Lapis creations in general!) Created with the hope of preserving and extolling the heritage of kueh in Singapore, all sweets here are crafted to a quality sufficient to uphold the significance of these sweets to our culinary history.

Besides the two obvious customer favourites, other sweets you should try include their fluffy apong belak, and if you’re lucky, maybe you’ll be able to sample the brand’s very own interpretation of the Eurasian kueh putugal.

101 Upper Cross Street
People’s Park Centre, Level 1
Singapore 058358
Tel: +65 6244 8719
Daily: 8.30am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/RumahBebeSG/

RUMAH BEBE

Found right next to Kim Choo, Rumah Bebe is one-half a heritage boutique cum private museum specialising in Peranakan paraphernalia, and one-half a traditional Peranakan restaurant. Sticklers for tradition, the food here brims with the rich flavours of the cuisine. The downside? Get ready to pay for said quality.

For lovers of kueh ambon, why not try its cousin, kueh bingka here instead? Similarly crafted from tapioca, the cake is denser, thus inviting a more intense tapioca and coconut flavour than its ambon counterpart.

113 East Coast Road
Singapore 428803
Tel: +65 6247 8781
Tue to Sun: 9.30am – 6.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Eunos / Paya Lebar

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TheBlueGinger/

THE BLUE GINGER

A staple for fans of nonya food, The Blue Ginger has long been a beloved brand of many of Peranakan lineage, and has recently achieved recognition with its delectable yet sensibly priced fare.

Offering a rotational selection of kuehs – with the exception of the evergreen kueh salat and kueh bingka at their Great World branch – whether you are greeted with the prismatic colours of their rainbow lapis or the lively flavours of their springy ambon, it will likely be an exquisite treat well worth the surprise.

97 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088518
Tel: +65 6222 3928
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

TIONG BAHRU GALICIER PASTRY BAKERY

A stalwart bastion of nonya sweets, Tiong Bahru Galicier has been enamouring senses since its inception, enrapturing with its beautiful array of traditional kuehs. So prominent is its reputation that regardless of the time, you will likely find a mix of the curious and hungry in its midst.

Go for the classics here for a taste of nostalgia – their kueh kosui and ongol-ongol are results of a precarious culinary balancing act, and their putu ayu have both a coconut and gula melaka crown for added flavour and texture contrast.

Block 55 Tiong Bahru Road
#01-39
Singapore 160055
Tel: +65 6324 1686
Tue to Sun: 10am – 8.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/Tok-Panjang-Nonya-cafe-149218025748186/

TOK PANJANG NONYA CAFÉ

If the spirited owner of the café catches you eyeing his enticing assortment of nonya sweets, you can expect to be the recipient of a heartfelt spiel about his kuehs. For those who sample his wares, you’ll understand why he is as resolute as he is: his kuehs are really good.

The counters typically empty by midday – his especially plush kueh koswee tend to be the first to disappear – so head over early to avoid disappointment. If you’d prefer to get an all-encompassing taste of his sweets, try the 5-kueh platter instead.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-52C
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 9273 7979
Daily: 9am – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: King Albert Park

Are you someone who jumps out of the bed with vigorous gusto the second you hear your alarm buzz? Do you like getting a head start on your day before the masses descend upon the streets? Unfortunately for early risers, the gears of the city usually start grinding only later in the day.

So, if you happen to fancy a hot breakfast without wanting to prepare it yourself, you may think you’re out of luck. Thankfully, there are some cafés that open when the proverbial rooster crows: here is a guide to 28 cafés in Singapore that open early for breakfast before 10am.

When we think of breakfast spots in Singapore, it is easy to conjure up the image of freshly baked goods from our neighbourhood boulangerie. However, when you are trying to rid yourself from the stupor of sleep, sometimes you just covet biting into a piping hot meal. No matter how marvellous an iteration of toast with spread you have, the comfort of having a warm dish to rejuvenate your empty stomach is an incomparable luxury

While many hardworking hawkers start the day before dawn, this guide caters to those who prefer, or are looking for the occasional western-styled breakfast treat. With work and school monopolising most of our days, not many of us will be willing to elbow our way through the weekend crowd to get our brunch fare fix. To circumvent that, a more viable option is to visit a café for breakfast during the early hours of the morning. Thus what we want to help you with today is not just provide a list of any breakfast places, but more specifically that of elusive cafés that open their doors at dawn.

ATLAS COFFEEHOUSE

One of the best cafes for breakfast in Singapore, Atlas Coffeehouse continues to regale with its focus on precision, seasonality and quality in all aspects of their operations. Post-renovation, Atlas still retains its iconic chill industrial vibe and its perpetual comforting scent of freshly brewed coffee. Known for serving up mean brunch fares and an even meaner cup of joe, Atlas is the place to be if you want a rustic and honest breakfast without jostling with the interminable CBD crowd.

6 Duke’s Road
Singapore 268886
Tel: +65 6314 2674
Tue to Sun: 8am – 7pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

BAKER & COOK

A familiar sight in several estates, passers-by can identify Baker & Cook from the shelves of golden loaves that adorn its warmly lit interiors. Morning is the best time to visit for a simple reason: the bread is fresh from the oven. If you want to take away bread, this is prime time to do so. If you wish to have a hot meal instead, go for menu items with a bread base for an optimal sampling of the chain’s signature sourdough bread.

77 Hillcrest Road
Singapore 288951
Tel: +65 6469 8834
Sun to Thu: 7am – 8pm
Fri & Sat: 7am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

BREAD & HEARTH

Fans of European-styled bread should pop by Bread & Hearth to sample their extensive bread selection. Featuring age-old European bread-making techniques, you will be ensured of quality loaves made not just with careful rigour but with heartfelt passion as well. The dine-in options are no less excellent, with many menu items accompanied by their bread creations. We suggest trying their Legendary Croissant; it really lives up to its namesake as one of the best croissants in Singapore!

18 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089125
Tel: +65 6534 7800
Daily: 8am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Outram Park
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

CHYE SENG HUAT HARDWARE

Confused as to how a hardware store made it into our guide? Despite its handle, CSHH is one of the most popular coffee shops in Singapore and is famed for its brew and its nonchalant industrial-chic vibe.

Visiting early means not only do you get a rare chance to pick your ideal seating spot in this popular haunt, but you also get the luxury of lounging with breakfast and coffee before the crowd descends.

Better yet, if you have a competitive streak, try your hand at the retro arcade boxes – what better way to start your morning than to get that adrenaline pumping!

150 Tyrwhitt Road
Singapore 207563
Tel: +65 6396 0609
Tue to Thu & Sun: 9am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 12am
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Lavender

COMMON MAN STAN

A well-loved spot by the CBD crowd, Common Man is the place to grab a coffee at if you need that extra pick-me-up. What allows Common Man to thrive despite the competition is how much attention is paid not only to the quality of brews offered but to the food prepared as well.

With its popularity, good luck trying to find a seat – yes, even if you are willing to dine al fresco in this weather – during lunch. Thus to avoid the lunch rush, the early bird really does get the hearty breakfast and coffee combo!

11/12 Stanley Street
Singapore 068730
Tel: +65 6877 4855
Daily: 7.30am – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

CRAFTSMEN SPECIALITY COFFEE

Well-loved for its delectable selection of sweet and savoury waffles, Craftsmen is a popular place for café lovers to unwind at. Having as much pride in their food as their coffee, the vast array of dishes is freshly made with care on the premises, infusing the space with a delightful scent of sweetness that is characteristic of the chain’s hearty breakfast fare. The generous portions served makes this not just a choice spot for working adults looking for some pre-work nourishment, but also families sharing the platters over lively and animated conversations.

2 First Street
Siglap V, #01-01
Singapore 458278
Tel: +65 9658 0769
Sun to Thu: 8.30am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 8.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bedok
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/DaPaoloGastronomia/

DA PAOLO GASTRONOMIA

Some of you may recognise the Da Paolo Group from its Italian food fame, but the focus of our attention here is on one of its multiple spinoff concepts: Da Paolo Gastronomia. This gourmet deli cum café offers patrons a convenient option for freshly made European-inspired food at all hours of the day. Whether you prefer a DIY bowl or you want a grab-and-go alternative, Da Paolo Gastronomia caters to your brisk lifestyle without making you settle for a lesser compromise.

2 Bayfront Avenue
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, #01-87
Singapore 018972
Tel: +65 6688 7161
Sun to Thu: 8am – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 11pm
Nearest Station:
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

DUTCH COLONY COFFEE CO.

Sometimes all you need in the burgeoning hours of the morning is a friendly smile and a kind voice to set the right tone for the rest of your day. With a brand motto of “Brewing Moments, Inspiring Relationships”, Dutch Colony Coffee Co. interweaves amiability and excellence in their products offered and services rendered. For epicureans with a predilection for the sweeter things in life, their House Pancakes is a saccharine treat that is as exquisite in taste as its appearance.

113 Frankel Avenue
Singapore 458230
Tel: +65 6448 5852
Mon to Thu: 8am – 6pm
Fri to Sun: 8am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Kembangan
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

FREE THE ROBOT

Behind an unremarkable door along the Telok Ayer stretch is a quaint robot-themed café. Slipping under the radar of most of the CBD population, Free the Robot serves up adorably named and charming food at much more wallet-friendly prices than many of the other dining spots in the vicinity.

For under S$20, you can indulge in a substantial Big Brekky that is sure to subsist you (at least until lunch hour). For those of you who are a tad mournful at needing to have your first meal of the day alone, get a B.A.E. (bacon and eggs) to accompany you instead!

118 Telok Ayer
Singapore 068587
Tel: +65 6438 1836
Tue to Fri: 8.30am – 4.30pm
Sat: 9.30am – 5.30pm
(Closed on Sundays & Mondays)
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

Photo Credit: https://www.foodforthought.com.sg/

FOOD FOR TOTS CAFÉ

Found amidst the lush greenery of Singapore Botanic Garden’s Jacob Ballas Children Garden, this nature-themed café is the ideal spot for families looking to bond over an early meal. The newest concept of the Food For Thought group, this café features multiple eco-friendly installations and hosts weekly activities for children. With an interactive area and a picturesque view of the gardens just beyond, parents can idle with a mix of local and western breakfast options while their little ones gambol about the intimate space.

1H, Cluny Road
Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, #01-K1
Singapore 259604
Tel: +65 6338 4848
Tue to Sun: 9am – 7pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

FORTY HANDS CAFÉ

Created as a neighbourhood café serving caffeine junkies in the Tiong Bahru area, Forty Hands Café continues to dole out consistent cups of coffee and scrumptious food nine years down the road. With their all-day offerings, morning folks will no longer need to lament at a restricted menu; if you want a cheese-drenched burger at 9 in the morning, you get to have precisely that! The brand is vegan/vegetarian-friendly as well – if a menu item catches your eye, the kitchen is able to convert it into a version suitable for your dietary restrictions.

78 Yong Siak Street
Singapore 163078
Tel: +65 6225 8545
Mon to Fri: 7am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 7.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

GROUP THERAPY

Group Therapy lives up to its moniker, providing a comfortable space befitting for the gathering of souls away from the daily rush characteristic of the CBD. Dining among the cosy couches and pastoral charm may seem more suited for an evening’s reprieve instead. However, for those looking to catch a breather before a hectic day, having an extensive pick of western dishes available in the laidback ambience and casual rhythm of the space is more than welcomed.

30 East Coast Road
Katong V, #01-11
Singapore 428571
Daily: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Dakota
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

JONES THE GROCER

An Australian-based speciality grocery and café, Jones the Grocer caters to the abundant brunch crowd that populates the area with accessible gourmet brunch fare. The dual space of the establishment means that you get a pleasant experience of dining in view of the fine produce used in the creation of your meals. The tall windows and bright interior is especially alluring in the morning light, with dawn break casting a hue of warm gold on your tables of meticulously curated dishes.

9D Dempsey Road
Dempsey Hill, #03-03/04
Singapore 247697
Tel: +65 6476 1518
Sun to Sat: 8am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

KITH CAFÉ

One of the most successful cafe chains in Singapore, Kith Café has expanded its empire to many outlets across the island, most of which open at an early enough hour to cater to those looking to enjoy the luxury of a kitchen-made breakfast. While the fare offered is mostly routine café food, Kith does not shy away from its offerings and is instead proud to offer honest and warm food. If you want breakfast food that is familiar and reinvigorating, Kith is an easy and accessible option that does not disappoint.

9 Raffles Boulevard
Millenia Walk, #01-44/45
Singapore 039596
Tel: +65 6333 4438
Daily: 7.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Promenade
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

KNOTS CAFÉ AND LIVING

If you are looking for a temporary escape from the daily grind of your routine, Knots Café and Living is a gorgeously decorated place that is suggestive of a whimsical garden getaway. Located in Paya Lebar, visitors will be greeted by a shelf of beaming Jellycat plushies before entering a space draped in greenery and complemented by warm wooden furnishings. Besides the usual breakfast fare, the café offers more robust options like the Leg of Lamb and French Toast with a side of popcorn chicken.

160 Paya Lebar Rd
Orion @ Paya Lebar, #01-07
Singapore 409022
Tel: +65 6817 0383
Tue to Thu & Sun: 9am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Macpherson

OBERSTRASSE

Oberstrasse, or Upper Street for those of us unfamiliar with German, is an industrial-styled café found in Kitchener Complex along the café-lined district of Lavender. Well-known for its affordable all-day brunch offering, regulars have been applauding the café’s consistent food quality since its inception. For morning folks looking to satiate their appetites in a homely and non-intrusive environment, give Oberstrasse a visit. You may just revise your new favourite spot to grab your morning coffee at!

809 French Road
Kitchener Complex, #01-50
Singapore 200809
Tel: +65 9652 5336
Tue to Sun: 9am – 9pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Lavender

ONE MAN COFFEE

An unassuming coffee place found along Upper Thomson, One Man Coffee is a tiny space that is easy for passers-by to miss. Past the doors, however, you will find a cordial café spot that will cater to all your breakfast options. Need a cuppa before you are functional for the day? OMC’s blends are aromatic and smooth for easy drinking, but pack quite a punch! Craving for some brunch food but tired of the typical variants? OMC’s offerings include a unique touch that is sure to perk up your palate for the day! We suggest trying their Pomegranate Chicken Salad – the tangy dressing really livens up what is otherwise a tame dish.

215R Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574349
Tel: +65 9658 1685
Sun & Mon, Wed to Sat: 9am – 5pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Marymount
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

ORIOLE COFFEE + BAR

Nestled along the busy Somerset stretch, Oriole Coffee + Bar is one of the few places that offer up a proper menu of breakfast items before the surrounding malls open. Customers looking for a pre-shopping or work meal can expect a healthy serving of their choice breakfast item alongside a lusciously smooth cup of joe. For those with a more moderate appetite, we suggest sharing the dishes; you don’t want to induce a premature food coma this early in the day, do you?

96 Somerset Road
Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard, #01-01
Singapore 238163
Tel: +65 6238 8348
Sun to Thu: 8am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 12am
Nearest Station: Somerset

PENNY UNIVERSITY

A popular hangout spot in the east, Penny University is one of the few Halal cafés in Singapore that have persisted through the years. You can find a constant flow of customers at all hours of the day, most of whom are after the establishment’s lengthy brunch menu. For those looking for a heavier meal choice to subsist through the remainder of the day, their customer favourite of Full English Breakfast is a sizable number that will placate even the most voracious of appetites.

402 East Coast Road
Singapore 428997
Tel: +65 6345 9055
Daily: 8.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

RIDERS CAFÉ

Located in the compound of Bukit Timah Saddle Club, the aptly named Riders Café is a fetching eatery the exudes an old-world charm redolent of English establishments of decades yonder.

Located on a verdant plot, it is easy to forget that you are still within the confines of Singapore when reclining with your drinks on the patio. The assortment of food available includes intricately prepared dishes featuring ingredients that complement the place’s English influence. Moreover, the occasional glimpse of budding equestrians and their horse companions ambling in the yard in the morning does make seem like you are residing in the English countryside!

51 Fairways Drive
Singapore 286965
Tel: +65 6466 9819
Sun to Thu: 8am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Sixth Avenue

SARNIES

Open from the bright and early hour of 7.30am, Sarnies is another CBD spot that seeks to bring a hint of homemade comfort to the population in the area. Notable for their speciality beans, regulars have long associated the lingering aroma of roasted beans to be an immutable part of their experience here. With such attention to detail paid to the coffee-making process, many working professionals elect to get their morning brew here. Their bites are no less coveted, with folks appreciative of the simple customisability of the brand’s multiple breakfast options.

136 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068601
Tel: +65 6224 6091
Mon & Tue: 7.30am – 10.30pm
Wed to Fri: 7.30am – 12am
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/SlappyCakesSG/

SLAPPY CAKES

With a tagline like Pancakes+Drinks+Fun!, it is no surprise that you can expect nothing short of an eating experience filled with playful cheer at Slappy Cakes. This family-friendly chain encourages its patrons to explore their culinary talents by customising and cooking your own pancake creations. On slow mornings, this DIY food-themed activity is perfect for livening up the start of your days. For those who lack culinary finesse, don’t worry; just pick from the hefty list of delicious breakfast fare ranging from the classic toast dishes to savoury waffles.

26 Sentosa Gateway
Resorts World Sentosa, #01-29
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6795 0779
Daily: 8am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

THE BOOK CAFÉ

A superb spot for fellow bibliophiles, The Book Café is one of the few longstanding book-themed cafés that has endured past the capricious shifting of café trends. With an astounding few hundred copies of diverse reading materials available, it is easy to lose oneself in the ebb and flow of the texts away from the bustle of the city beyond the worlds. Dining here allows you to unwind with a warm breakfast meal during the quiet hours of the morning, and the plush seaters make it easy to feel at home with a new book friend by your side.

20 Martin Road
Seng Kee Building, #01-02
Singapore 239070
Sun to Thu: 8.30am – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 8.30am – 12.30am
Nearest Station: Fort Canning

THE BRAVERY

Dedicated to serving mouthwatering brunch food at all hours of the day, this Halal-friendly cafe hits all the right notes for a successful café: a tantalising list of breakfast fare, delightfully smooth coffee blends, and a casual relaxed vibe that is prime for prolonged periods of spirited conversations. What is special about the food here is how the kitchen tries to incorporate a mix of sweet, sour, and salty into all their dishes. The next time you get to sample the menu, see if you can identify the sources of these distinct flavour profiles!

66 Horne Road
Singapore 209073
Tel: +65 9388 2973
Mon, Wed, Thu & Sun: 9am – 6pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 10pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Bendemeer

THE PROVIDORE

With multiple branches island wide, The Providore is a trusty choice for those looking for a wholesome breakfast option. Although their breakfast menu may seem plain at first glance, most of the items feature recipes inspired by the produce available in their grocery and deli concepts. The core of these dishes lies not in the elaborate embellishments that lesser places will lean on as a crutch. Instead, diners can expect the focus to remain on the simple but vibrant flavours courtesy of the quality of ingredients used.

7 Raffles Place
Singapore 048625
Tel: +65 6533 1352
Mon to Sat: 8am – 10.30pm
Sun: 9am – 6pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Raffles Place
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

TWO BAKERS

Another gem found in the café enclave of Lavender, Two Bakers offers French and fusion-inspired fare. Unlike the static menu of many of its counterparts, Two Bakers has a continually evolving list the features seasonal ingredients alongside some noteworthy fusion creations. Those who wish to have a breakfast experience that deviates from the normal café fare can choose from its menu of unusual culinary innovations. Some of our favourites include the exquisitely fluffy Pandan Pancakes and the piquant flavours of the Aburi Salmon Crepe.

88 Horne Road
Singapore 209083
Tel: +65 6293 0329
Mon to Thu: 8am – 6pm
Fri to Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Bendemeer
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

WILD HONEY

Wild Honey has cemented itself as Singapore’s resident gourmet breakfast café following on its continued success over the years. Featuring an enormous menu dedicated solely to breakfast and brunch offerings, Wild Honey does not only have an ordinary something for any potential customer – it has an exquisite answer to any traditional brunch cravings you may have. Whether you want to go for a classic European fare of poached eggs on toast or the more intriguing Tunisian with it bold spices, you can be assured of starting your day off on the right foot with Wild Honey’s impeccable execution.

6 Scotts Road
Scotts Square, #03-01
Singapore 228209
Tel: +65 6636 1816
Sun to Thu: 9am – 8.30pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 9,30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Please note that for cafés that have multiple outlets, not all of them may open before 10am. Please check their individual opening hours before you pop by for a visit!

Let’s yum cha! Dim sum has traditionally been a popular choice for communal meals in Singapore. Whether you are dining with family or friends, sharing steaming baskets of bite-sized goodies is a fantastic way to encourage bonding.

Unfortunately, this activity becomes less accessible when accommodating for vegetarian family members and friends. Even for popular Chinese restaurant chains, their vegetarian dim sum selection tends to be uninspired, and is sparse at best.

To maintain the spirit of dining together, here is a list of restaurants that offer a more robust menu of vegetarian dim sum items, and are led by chefs with sufficient imagination and skill to recreate non-vegetarian dishes into original vegetarian alternatives.

By serving up palatable vegetarian dishes, these places prove that meatless doesn’t mean tasteless!

Photo Credit: https://www.pscafe.com/chopsuey-cafe-at-dempsey-hill/

CHOPSUEY CAFÉ

Chopsuey Café, the Asian spinoff of PS. Café, has matured from a maladroit eatery into a restaurant adept at serving modern interpretations of Chinese dishes. Located in Dempsey, diners can find repose in the colonial-styled dining space while sipping on infusions inspired by regional flavours.

Amidst its menu, one can find a comfortable selection of dishes that are either fully vegetarian or can be modified into vegetarian alternatives.

Start off with their dim sum selection – the refreshingly light Vegetarian Crystal Dumplings and the mildly honeyed Vegetarian Char Siew Pau are choice picks.

To supplement your meal, their San Choy Pau is laced with a kaleidoscope of flavours and textures, while the vegetarian Chopsuey Satays – with alternating tofu chunks! – retain the sweet-savoury profile of its meat counterpart.

Block 10, Dempsey Road
#01-23
Singapore 247700
Tel: +65 6708 9288
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 4pm, 4pm – 6pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 4pm, 4pm – 6pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/vegetarian.sg/

DIVINE REALM VEGETARIAN

Initially a vegetarian steamboat buffet restaurant, after being subsumed under the Zizai Restaurant brand, Divine Realm streamlined its menu into an eclectic mix of vegetarian zichar offerings.

Besides more unusual vegetarian options like ramen and prata, the restaurant offers all-day dim sum dishes. Due to the consistent quality of ingredients and careful craftsmanship, even tables not expressly looking for dim sum dishes are fond of padding their order with these morsels.

Customer favourites include the succulent siew mai and the piquant fried dumplings – both brimming with an assortment of sliced vegetables, the former induces a burst of fresh sweetness with each bite, while the latter’s sinfully savoury profile makes it dangerously easy to pop.

Hougang Avenue 8
Block 501, #01-630
Singapore 530501
Tel: +65 6387 2058
Daily: 7.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hougang

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/empresssg/

EMPRESS

Hidden in the Asian Civilisations Museum, Empress reinterprets Chinese cuisine by interweaving traditional offerings with vibrant contemporary flavours. Overlooking the Singapore River, customers can enjoy spectacular views of the waterfront and skyline while sampling the restaurant’s lively modern fare.

By leveraging on a recent meat substitute called Omnipork, Empress utilises this invention to reconstruct pork-based dishes without forgoing the dominant textures and flavours of said protein.

Using a combination of Omnipork and Impossible Meat, Empress is able to recreate favourites from char siew to sweet and sour pork balls with an astonishing likeness to their original counterparts.

For an added surprise, these weekend dim sum brunches at Empress entail unlimited servings of your favourite dim sum items for a truly indulgent dining experience!

1 Empress Place
Asian Civilisations Museum, #01-03
Singapore 179555
Tel: +65 6776 0777
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 4pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

Photo Credit: https://www.fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-singapore/

JADE

Found in the historically preserved The Fullerton Hotel, Jade is more than a restaurant that serves impeccable Chinese food. Possessing a space evocative of a time-worn past and a spread rooted in authenticity, Jade has evolved into a present-day keeper of our culinary heritage.

Although a standalone vegetarian dim sum menu isn’t available, Jade offers vegetarian and vegan set menus. These sets present an extensive six-course spread, of which the first two courses include creative dim sum bites.

For patrons more partial to traditional Chinese vegetarian fare, the vegetarian menu is a homely and comforting mix of familiar flavours. Those looking for something more unusual, the aptly named “Taste The Future” vegan menu heavily features Omnipork in its adaptations of non-vegan favourites.

1 Fullerton Square
Level 01, Fullerton Hotel
Singapore 049178
Tel: +65 6877 8911 / 8912
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm (Dim Sum), 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

LINGZHI VEGETARIAN

A vegetarian offshoot of TungLok Group, LingZhi Vegetarian is one of the linchpins of Singapore’s vegetarian scene. Spending nearly three decades redefining what scrumptious and healthy vegetarian food should taste like, LingZhi maintains the gourmet quality representative of its lineage.

Prepared à la carte fashion, the lunch buffet provides the freedom to mix and match a free flow of your preferred dim sum items, making this the perfect spot to hold family gatherings at.

With twelve distinct dim sum dishes available, be it more uncommon flavour combinations – ever considered trying a chrysanthemum dumpling? – or harder to find vegetarian alternatives – fancy a vegetarian “char siew” sou? – chances are if they’re not found in LingZhi menu, you’ll be hard-pressed to find it elsewhere.

541 Orchard Road
Liat Towers, #05-01
Singapore 238881
Tel: +65 6734 3788
Daily: 11am – 3pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/LotusVegetarian/

LOTUS VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

Iconic in the vegetarian circle for its comprehensive buffet spread, Lotus is a popular location to host large family gatherings or celebrations at. Between Friday to Sunday, a sojourn into the Asian Buffet showcases both progressive Chinese vegetarian dishes and local favourites.

Diners can help themselves to pickings of meticulously recreated staples – the unassuming Wild Mushroom Crystal Dumpling holds within its gossamer skin a rich and colourful flavour – alongside more unique dim sum originals such as the BBQ King Oyster Bun.

Head over to chefs-manned stations after to pick up a warm serving of Chicken Rice or Laksa; whichever your pick of comfort food, their scent profiles are comparable to their original inspirations.

201 Balestier Road
Quality Hotel Marlow, Level 2
Singapore 329926
Tel: +65 6254 0090
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm (Dim Sum), 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Farrer Park
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

MITZO

Few will believe that this unorthodox, glitzy interior belies an authentic Cantonese restaurant. Mitzo seeks to reinvent Cantonese dining without relinquishing its foundational essence; serving uncompromising Cantonese fare in a space steeped in flamboyant and deconstructed transmutations of traditional Chinese elements.

Available all day, the Vegetarian Steamed Dim Sum Platter for two is a splendid addition to any meal. Although the vegetable dumplings are well-balanced in flavours, the crowning dish goes to the sheer aromatic potency of the Wild Mushroom Truffle Bun.

To complement the initial tasting, diners can peruse the à la carte menu for more substantial vegetarian dishes. Consider adding on the deep-fried monkey head mushrooms; they provide an excellent textural dimension to your meal, and pair marvellously with a bespoke cocktail from the bar.

270 Orchard Road
Grand Park Orchard, Level 4
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8855
Sun to Wed: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Thu to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm, 10.30pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Somerset

MOUTH RESTAURANT

Since its inception in 1988, Mouth Restaurant has been doling out traditionally crafted and handmade classic Cantonese dishes to its patrons. Post menu revamp in 2013, Mouth has added on more inventive dishes, including ingredients once considered unconventional into its kitchen mix.

Although the non-vegetarian dishes received the bulk of this modernisation, updated vegetarian dim sum dishes include the fragrant Steamed Truffle Crystal Dumpling and the sublime moistness of the Extra Soft Coconut Sugar Sponge Cake.

For the insatiate few, feel free to add on a hearty vegetarian carb dish: either the Braised E-Fu Noodles or Vegetarian Fried Rice with their smoky wok hei will pair wonderfully with the lighter profiles of the dim sum items.

38 Maxwell Road
Airview Building, #01-01/02
Tel: +65 6438 5798
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 4.30pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 10pm (Dim Sum)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/newfutkai/

NEW FUT KAI VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

New Fut Kai pays homage to its divine namesake by offering a communal space conducive for bonding over meals at, and providing a cordial service ubiquitous to respected Chinese dining establishments.

Beyond its mainstay of Chinese dishes, New Fut Kai’s menu is peppered with regionally diverse items, with a commonality only residing in said dishes’ popularity with Singaporeans. Expect an extravagant mix of vegetarian-friendly local delicacies and traditional dim sum fare not found anywhere else – fancy some bak kut teh with a side of kung bak pao?

With one of the largest yet most affordable vegetarian menus in the market, bring your pickiest vegetarian relative or friend here. Given the sheer size of the restaurant’s offerings, there’s bound to be something that piques their interest!

282 Jalan Besar
Singapore 208945
Tel: +65 6398 0836
Daily: 10am – 3pm (Dim Sum), 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Farrer Park

Photo Credit: https://www.yantingrestaurant.com/

YAN TING

At Yan Ting, the anchor Chinese restaurant of St. Regis Singapore, diners can seek an intimate respite in the restaurant’s serene ambience, and enjoy their gastronomical retreat while under the graceful attendance of their service staff.

Renowned for its award-winning Weekend Dim Sum Brunch, the resident masterchefs plate up an exquisite array of Cantonese-inspired creations that feature an effortless blend of traditional and modern.

Unlike other establishments, Yan Ting presents vegetarian fare that is more than an awkward hodgepodge of garden greens. These specially-crafted dishes are a compelling blend of meat substitutes and spiced vegetables.

From time-honoured favourites like spring rolls and mushroom dumplings to specially-requested Impossible variants of non-vegetarian dishes, you can look forward to an exciting afternoon of intricate vegetarian delights at Yan Ting.

29 Tanglin Road
Level 1U, The St. Regis
Singapore 247911
Tel: +65 6506 6887
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 3pm (Dim Sum), 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/belindasaw.ailin/

YUAN XIANG VEGETARIAN

With an extensive menu rivalling even its non-vegetarian equivalents, Yuan Xiang is the prime choice for families with older members whose palates prefer the familiarity of typical Chinese vegetarian fare.

Unlike places that serve plates of reheated premade items, patrons can revel in the sight of their dim sum baskets piled high at Yuan Xiang. Cooking up fresh vegetarian alternatives to dim sum staples at all hours, go early to snag them before they sell out for the day.

The radish cake is a perennial bestseller: its centre retains the dish’s characteristic salty zest through clever use of mushrooms, while its exterior is pan-fried to an addictive crispiness. Other popular items include their saccharine char siew bao and delicate steamed dumplings.

134 Changi Road
Singapore 419720
Tel: +65 6344 3239
Daily: 9.30am – 10pm (Dim Sum)
Nearest Station: Eunos
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

It’s no secret that Singaporeans love their food. But do we love food enough to supersize it? Across the world, we have seen food lovers take this love for eating to the next level, some going all out with extravagant feasts in their mukbang videos, while others preferring to challenge themselves with exorbitantly-sized dishes. Now that this trend has finally reached our shores, it’s our turn to get on the supersized train.

When we think of cuisines with disproportionately exaggerated sizes, we tend to look towards American and Korean fare. However, there is a new entrant to the giant food scene: Thai cuisine. Traditionally conservative in portion sizes, the easily scalable nature of many of its food items has made it one of the best contenders for supersizing. Moreover, the growing global palate for Thai fare has only perpetuated this trend.

Thai food lovers, this one is for you! Bring along your friends with the most robust appetites and iron-clad palates to embark on an unforgettable Thai XXL journey. From addictively slurpable pork spines to red, hot tom yum bound to set your tongues alight, here is a list of 5 mouth-watering Thai XXL dishes to binge on, and challenge your friends to!

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/flyingwok/

FLYING WOK [HALAL]

Opening this list is a dish quintessential to Thai cuisine: tom yum soup. If you’ve ever felt that the modest pots of tom yum soup outside aren’t enough to satiate your cravings, order Flying Wok’s Jumbo Mama Wok (S$13++ for 1-2 pax; S$22++ for 3-4 pax; S$79.90 for 8-10 pax) to never again experience the lingering want of an unfulfilled tom yum craving.

Requiring three litres of soup to fill, each pot includes a heap of assorted seafood – clams, crab meat, scallops, shrimps, and squid – amongst more routine ingredients like eggs, chicken, and meatballs atop a very sizable nest of instant noodles.

Good news for folks with a more moderate spice tolerance, due to the size of the wok, the soup ends up with a milder spicy tang than it would with your typical tom yum soup. Instead, spend your time indulging in the abundance of ingredients – all that for under S$10 per person! – and watching the clock lest your noodles steep past their original springiness.

105 Canberra Street
Singapore 752106
Tel: +65 8776 1795
Daily: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Sembawang

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/ImThaiKitchen/

IM THAI KITCHEN

A Thai street food classic, Phad Kra Pao (Thai holy basil chicken) is beloved by locals and foreigners alike for its all-encompassing nature that features all essential food groups in a simple, portable dish. Capitalising on the familiar flavours and scalable modular nature of the dish, Im Thai Kitchen offers two sizes of Giant Thai Basil Chicken Rice at the economical prices of S$11.50++ (regular) and S$15.90++ (large).

Keeping in line with traditional iterations, Im Thai’s version includes a respectably-sized, mildly crisp, and delightfully fluffy omelette draped over rice. Unlike other places that subsist on carbs, this variant arrives with a generous mountain of minced chicken and beans alongside traditional garnishes of choice.

Deceptive in appearance, the challenge of this dish lies in the heartiness of all its components. While the egg is airy, it is especially adept at soaking up sauces, and even though the meat is minced, the rich wok hei aftertaste saturates your palate quickly, with the inclusion of beans only serving to more effectively fill up your stomach.

658 Punggol East
#01-10 Stall 6
Singapore 820658
Tel: +65 9224 5992
Daily: 11.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Kadaloor
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

LENG SAAP AT ROT FAI MARKET

For the uninitiated, Leng Saap can be thought of as the Thai version of bak kut teh. More specifically, it refers to a spicy pork spine soup that is prepared by boiling pork bones for multiple hours until the meat is fork-pulling tender and has been infused with the accompanying herbs and fish sauce.

Instead of drinking the broth as with bak kut teh, the highlight here is instead the pork bones – stacked as you would a firewood pile, they are then flourished with a heavy-handed serving of sliced chilli padi and cilantro for added zest.

Named after its main offering, Leng Saap is housed inside Singapore’s equivalent of little Thailand, Golden Mile Complex. Available in four sizes, M (S$19.26) serves 2, L (S$26.75) serves 3, XL (S$42.80) serves 4 to 5, while the eye-popping XXL (S$58.85) number is meant for 6 to 7 people. Advertising its dish as being comparable to Bangkok’s rot fai (railway) markets’, this is one of the best places locally to get an authentic taste of the more unique side of Bangkok’s food offerings.

6001 Beach Road
Golden Mile Tower, #B1-65
Singapore 199589
Tel: +65 8119 6664
Daily: 12pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Nicoll Highway

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thaigoldminekitchen/

THAI GOLDMINE KITCHENER

Another contender for supersized tom yum dishes, Thai Goldmine Kitchener’s traditional offering is the Jumbo Goldmine, which features a mix of seafood and pork-based protein items for S$38. Alternatively, you can choose to supplement your hotpot with just pork (S$38) or a more luxurious mix of seafood (S$48). For the undecided, Thai Goldmine offers á la carte additions to suit the exact preferences of each table as well.

Regardless of your preferred ingredients, all patrons have a choice of four spice levels: Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and the supposedly infamously hot Level 10. Take note that even for the lower levels, a prominent bite of spice is present in every mouthful.

While its hotpots may pale in comparison size-wise to its counterparts, Thai Goldmine’s claim to fame originates not from gimmicks, but from serving quality Thai fare. With multiple awards over the recent years for excellence in its food offerings, be prepared to join the near-permanent queue if you wish to partake in its voluminous hotpots.

147 Kitchener Road
Singapore 208524
Tel: +65 6909 2020
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Farrer Park
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/timeforthaisg/

TIME FOR THAI [HALAL]

Rounding off the list is a place that does not just one, but two colossal dishes at their Cheong Chin Nam and Simpang Bedok outlets – XXL Leng Saap (Mutton) (S$45++) and XXL Seafood Bucket (S$50++).

Offering what is probably the only Halal-friendly Leng Saap dish in Singapore, the kitchen substitutes pork spines for mutton. Seemingly threadbare, add up the individual sticks and you’ll have a platter suitable for sharing between a table of four or so. Instead of just eating the meat straight from the bone, don’t forget to sample it with the 15-herbs-infused broth as well to get a full taste experience of the dish.

For those who prefer seafood, try the XXL Seafood Bucket instead. Filled to the brim with a potpourri of succulent seafood like crabs, prawns, mussels and more, each bowl contains enough for a hungry table of 3 to 4. Unlike the typical tom yum broth, this one isn’t as sour, with the infusion of seafood rendering its profile smoother and sweeter.

15 Cheong Chin Nam Road
Singapore 599739
Tel: +65 6909 3903
Daily: 11am – 3am
Nearest Station: Beauty World
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Amble within the concrete jungle of Singapore and you’ll likely be met with the defined lines and reflective glass characteristic of modern urbanity. However, if you peer a little closer between the neatly-lined blocks and along hidden streets, you can still find traditional Chinese teahouses hidden in plain sight.

Typically relics of the past seemingly frozen in time, these teahouses provide a temporary respite for all those enchanted by the comforting fragrance of their soothing brews. Broach past the wooden doors and you will be transported into a space resistant to the erosion of time and modernity.

There will likely be an array of speciality teas from black to white awaiting your perusal, with each unique blend offering a distinct flavour meant to whisk you back to the misty mountains of China’s historical past. Besides a cup of your preferred tea, these teahouses provide a safe, self-contained opportunity for introspection amidst the hushed melodies of Chinese instruments.

More than just a drink for our parents and grandparents, with its milder taste profile that belies easy drinking and purported health benefits from being anti-inflammatory to having cleansing efforts, the next time you seek a cuppa, why not swap it for a cup of pleasant, warm Chinese tea instead? To begin you on your journey, here is a list of 9 Chinese teahouses in Singapore that offer quiet escapes from the bustle of our daily lives.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/camelliateabar/

CAMELLIA TEA BAR

Camellia Tea Bar can be best described as a quintessential display of what a modern Chinese teahouse would look like: a fine blend of traditional elements in an otherwise contemporary space, with an age-old dedication to fine teas not unlike that of its traditional predecessors, and serving exquisite brews alongside cultural appreciation courses and events.

Visit Camellia if you’re a fan of oolong tea and sustainability. Specialising in the opulent wuyi rock oolong – a renowned tea that was once employed as an imperial tribute for its excellence – this teahouse only sources leaves from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wuyi Mountains, to ensure its products are all sustainably grown and harvested.

Due to their stringent sourcing requirements, the tea plants are grown in mineral-rich volcanic soil and nurtured by microclimates. Thus, you can expect the oolong leaves here to be of unparalleled quality.

88 East Coast Road
Katong Square, #01-08
Singapore 428788
Tel: +65 8783 1993
Daily: 11am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Dakota

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/selenajoy2/

CHINESE THEATRE CIRCLE’S CHINESE OPERA TEA HOUSE

Did you know there is a functioning Chinese opera theatre in Singapore? Even if you did, are you aware that it contains a teahouse where patrons can enjoy their tea to live professional Chinese opera showcases?

With opera at the core of its operations, bask not just in the cosy atmosphere reminiscent of mid-90s era tea spaces, take the time to learn and appreciate a part of Chinese culture and history that you will rarely come into contact with. Don’t forget to take the chance during these live opera performances to get up close and personal with the intricacies of this rapidly disappearing art.

Despite its quiet reputation locally, the Chinese Theatre Circle has performed in 29 countries and territories, with over 2,500 performances under its belt to date. In attempts to modernise traditional plays for a wider market, the Chinese Theatre Circle has adapted the original scrips into full English performances as well.

5 Smith Street
Singapore 058919
Tel: +65 6323 4862 / 9630 2886
Tue to Sat: 12pm – 5pm
Sun: 2pm – 6pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Chinatown

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/KoongWohTong/

KOONG WOH TONG

Fancy some Chinese herbal dessert alongside your pot of Chinese tea? At Koong Woh Tong, not only has this Malaysian brand spent the past few decades researching on the herbal tea concoctions with the most pronounced health benefits, they have a similar dedication to their guiling gao (a type of herbal jelly) dessert as well.

Housed in a gold-draped and wood-lined interior adorned with large urn-like shiny metal dispensers, you get to enjoy the best of both worlds: the present-day conveniences of sipping tea in a modern shopping mall while enjoying the nostalgic notes of Koong Woh Tong’s herbal creations.

Especially welcomed on warm, humid days, their herbal jelly is an authentic, albeit expensive, treat unlike the manufactured, artificial flavours of commercial variants. Enjoy it with a herbal tea on the go for a fantastic way to beat the heat in a healthier manner.

90 Hougang Avenue 10
NTUC Hougang, #B1-22/23
Singapore 538766
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hougang
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/PSC1925/

PEK SIN CHOON

If you’re looking for a teahouse that still radiates an old-school charm, Pek Sin Choon has been providing traditionally roasted and prepared tea leaves since 1925. Currently helmed by the third generation of the founding family, the current owner did not just inherit the business, he inherited his predecessor’s knowledge and love for Chinese teas too.

Despite its nearly century-old legacy, the brand is still going strong despite the present-day population’s departure from the habit of drinking Chinese tea. Besides the requirement of suppling high-quality leaves, Pek Sin Choon attributes much of its success to the building and maintaining of relationships with its clients, be it individuals or businesses.

When appraising their sizable selection of China-imported tea leaves, you are encouraged to tap into the knowledge of the brand’s staff and owners. Whether you are seeking gentle notes of Royal Daffodil, the intense wafts from the Dragonball Supreme, or the classic Renowned Unknown Fragrance blend utilised by many notable bak kut teh stalls, few other places can rival the intricate profiles and nuances of their blends.

36 Mosque Street
Singapore 059514
Tel: +65 6323 3228 / 6323 3005
Mon, Tue, Thu & Sat: 8.30am – 6.30pm
Fri: 9am – 5pm
(Closed on Wednesdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Chinatown

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/teochewtea/

PHOENIX HILL TEA MERCHANT

Nestled along the heritage streets of Joo Chiat, Phoenix Hill Tea Merchant offers an intimate tea appreciation space filled with pieces whisked away from a long-gone era, managed by a family with roots that span not just space, but time as well.

Unlike other teahouses that import their tea from third parties, Phoenix Hill Tea Merchant achieved its moniker from the place where their tea plantation is located: Phoenix Hill in the Guangdong province. Specialising in traditional oolong tea, the family continues to monitor every step of the process from growing to charcoal-roasting to ensure that the leaves they offer will always be of impeccable quality.

Besides their signature oolong varieties, Phoenix Hill offers a vast array of other tea types as well. Whether you are looking for a peaceful place to rest with a warm drink, or perhaps you’re hunting for genuine traditional tea-making paraphernalia, Phoenix Hill has them all.

52 Joo Chiat Place
Singapore 427776
Tel: +65 9670 2699
Daily: 11am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://teabonezenmind.com/

TEA BONE ZEN MIND

After four moves, Tea Bone Zen Mind has finally settled down in the reticent neighbourhood of Emerald Hill, transforming two venerable, preserved three-storey shophouses into a relaxed museum of sorts for all things tea.

As with the intertwining Art-Deco and Chinese Baroque flavours of the space, the brand upholds a similar synthesis in the duality of their teas, unafraid of experimenting with the traditional to create new and exciting flavours suitable for the contemporary palate. Departing from more traditional teahouses, a visit here involves not just excellent brews, but a meticulous pairing of tea with a mix of gourmet and street fare.

Made to be approachable by both tea aficionados and beginners alike, the staff is happy to entertain requests to learn more about the teas on premises, and can cater to unseasoned palates by offering both commonly found teas and specially curated blends.

98 Emerald Hill Road
Singapore 229374
Tel: +65 6334 4212
Mon to Sat: 11am – 7pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Somerset

Photo Credit: https://teachapter.com/

TEA CHAPTER

If your tired self is looking for a place where time trickles just that bit slower, a place where your hurried thoughts of the day’s schedules can be stifled, and a place where you can properly revel in the present, and the present alone, seek solace in Tea Chapter’s muted space.

As one of the more prestigious teahouses in Singapore, Tea Chapter extols all aspects of the art tea brewing to its visitors. As their staff educate the room on the history of their brews and the culture that surrounds these teas, all dining patrons can sample from a host of traditional snacks like the assorted Dim Sum Platter and Dragon Rice Balls to accompany any ongoing tea explorations.

When you do manage to visit, feel free to partake in a workshop held by the brand’s own Grand Tea Master. Whether you are a student or a working professional, Tea Chapter’s workshops are a light, refreshing way to rediscover parts of our own history and culture through the medium of tea. With notable figures like PM Lee Hsien Loong and President Tony Tan among his clientele, a session with the Grand Master will undoubtedly be an invigorating and enlightening one.

9 Neil Road
Singapore 088808
Tel: +65 6226 1175 / 6226 1917
Sun to Thu: 11am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown

TIAN FU TEA ROOM

Looking for sumptuous Chinese fare before an equally lavish Chinese tea session after? Head over to your nearest PARKROYAL hotel and into their resident Chinese restaurant, Si Chuan Dou Hua and be indulged in a tea appreciation session unlike any other.

Much more accessible given its placement within an existing Chinese restaurant, Tian Fu maintains every other facet of a successful traditional teahouse: a hefty variety of 30 teas, a comfortable and tranquil ambience, gracious and graceful service, and an elegantly poised interior.

In addition to enjoying their teas, a trip here allows you to try your hand at tea brewing and engage in fine traditional Chinese arts like Chinese calligraphy. Moreover, given how the tea room shares a kitchen with its sister restaurant, patrons can expect the accompanying morsels to be of a quality exacting enough to properly complement the splendid brews.

Si Chuan Dou Hua
7500 Beach Road
PARKROYAL on Beach Road
Singapore 199591
Tel: +65 6505 5722 / 6505 5724
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Nicoll Highway
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/yixingxuan/

YIXING XUAN TEAHOUSE

For coffee lovers who scoff at the joys of tea drinking, spend some time with the owner of Yixing Xuan Teahouse, Vincent Low, and hopefully, you too will be able to understand the captivations of Chinese tea. An ex-coffee connoisseur, Vincent, along with his daughter, are eager to spread the craft of tea brewing in an uncomplicated and palatable way.

A trip to Yixing Xuan is akin to a trip to a friend’s dining room; unpretentious and strangely familiar, it allows for not just an informal and comfortable environment to learn and enjoy what could be an intimidating art for the uninitiated. Not only is it a space where the curious of all ages can savour fine teas, the family longs for it to be one that’s safe enough for strangers to bond over their love for teas as well.

Holding workshops every Saturday at 11am, the father-daughter duo personally demonstrates the constellating aspects of tea appreciation, coupled with a course of dim sum samples to complement the collection of premium teas. Be it a more special afternoon tea session or an educational experience, Yixing Xuan is more than happy to welcome those who have even the slightest fondness for tea between its doors.

78 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088499
Tel: +65 6224 6961 / 6226 1646
Mon to Sat: 10am – 8pm
Sun: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Outram Park

It’s a new year, and you’re trying to stick to your New Year resolution of eating clean. Sure, many of us are working on reducing our meat intake, but even for the most moderate of meat-eaters, there comes a time when we are overcome by an insatiable gnawing need to get our hands on a thick, juicy slab of steak. It’s one of life’s simplest pleasures, and one that many of us are unable (and unwilling) to give up.

However, dining at steakhouses can be an expensive affair, with limited portion sizes, substandard preparation, and unappetising steak cuts further compounding existing reluctance to placate said whims. Thankfully, there are still places in Singapore that serve good quality steaks without costing you an arm and a leg. You just need to know where to find them.

To alleviate that quandary, here is a list of 20 places to get affordable steaks for under S$30. Whether you’re looking for budget bulking options, or just want to luxuriate in some bargain steak binging, these places are bound to raise the steaks on a modern steakhouse experience!

Photo Credit: http://www.astons.com.sg/partners/bizen/

BIZEN OKAYAMA WAGYU STEAKHOUSE

Budget wagyu steaks? No, your eyes are not deceiving you; at BIZEN you’ll be able to enjoy Okayama wagyu cuts from the affordable price of S$18.90++, with all choices of Adventure Cuts available for under S$30++!

A brand concept from the Aston’s Group specialising in steaks, BIZEN’s ability to offer wagyu steaks at that low a price point stems from its exclusive partnership with Okayama cattle farmers. As cuts are limited, check which ones are available on their Facebook page before heading down to avoid disappointment.

107 North Bridge Road
Funan, #B2-22
Singapore 179105
Tel: +65 6970 0481
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/braseiro.sg/

BRASEIRO RESTAURANT

There’s a reason why this casual French steakhouse has been a recipient of TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence in both 2018 and 2019, and is constantly rated as one of the best steakhouses locally.

Redefining what affordable and palatable steaks mean, unlike in other establishments where you have to carefully scrutinise the myriad of cuts to determine which is of most value, Braseiro keeps things simple by having a set price of S$19.90++ for all its steaks. Even if you find the standard 200g cut too slight a portion, even their size L (S$24.90++) and XL portions (S$29.90++) are still within budget!

333 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427588
Tel: +65 9116 3304
Mon to Thu: 6pm – 11pm
Fri to Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/buddyhoagiesdj/

BUDDY HOAGIES

Western and steak restaurants come and go, many edged out by stiff competition or squeezed by burgeoning overhead costs. Buddy Hoagies, on the other hand, has been around since 2004, surviving through the decades with the support of its regulars who appreciate its honest fare and modest prices.

To get an idea for how good a value you’re getting, from just S$13.90++, you can enjoy a cut of chilled New Zealand steak with your choice of two sides (get the onion rings – they are fried to a sweet, crispy goodness). Be warned, the lunch hour crowd is unforgiving, so go early or be prepared to wait!

5 Ang Mo Kio Central 2
Djisun Mall, #01-08/09
Singapore 569663
Tel: +65 6752 8722
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Yio Chu Kang
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: http://chargrillbar.com.sg/

CHAR-GRILL BAR

Proving that you do not need to go to a proper restaurant to get your protein fix, Char-Grill Bar’s longevity and multiple branches islandwide are testaments to how the population appreciates its immense fare (it has over 50 items!), fuss-free experience, and general affordability.

From as low as S$11.80, you can partake in a regular steak option with your choice of two of the eleven sides available. If one meagre slab of steak isn’t sufficient, why not top up to S$16.80 for a mixed grill option to really satisfy that meat craving instead?

25A Lorang Liput
Singapore 277735
Tel: +65 6463 4908
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30am
Nearest Station: Holland Village
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

COLLIN’S GRILL

A common choice for those looking for a mid-tier yet casual environment to dine with their friends and family at, Collin’s has captured this wanting crowd with its generous offerings made even more attractive by multiple ongoing promotions.

To substantiate your meal, why not get a Black Angus Steak cut starting from S$16++? For more customisability, head over to Collin’s Common Grill outlets where you can pick your protein of choice before mixing and matching it with your preferred carbs, sides, and sauces. And no, you don’t have to pay above their usual grill menu prices for this added convenience!

Block 51 Havelock Road
#01-06
Singapore 161051
Tel: +65 9739 1341
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/patsytan19/

GRILL WERKZ

One of the more renowned hawker centre grill houses, Grill Werkz has over 20 outlets islandwide that touts its enormous menu of quintessential American grill items. Perfect for meat lovers, all its budget-friendly steaks New Zealand cuts are available for under S$20.

If you’re looking for other types of protein besides beef, Grill Werkz is also famous for their Combo Mixed Grill (S$15.80) which comes with six different protein items, your choice of sides, wedges, and a sunny side up egg. For bigger tables who want a feast for both stomachs and eyes, subsist on the Ultimate Sharing Platter (S$16.80) instead.

28A Dover Crescent
7 Stars Coffeeshop, #01-92
Singapore 130028
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Dover / One-North
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.hottomato.com.sg/

HOT TOMATO CAFÉ & GRILL

At Hot Tomato, you won’t be facing any vegetarian fare. It’s all hearty meat on fire action here, with a bonus of all their steaks being grass-fed beef cuts (from S$15.20++). What this entails is a more natural diet that reduces exposure to chemicals and toxins so that you can relish in your steak with a peace of mind.

If you visit their Funan outlet instead, you’ll be met with a menu that offers a special twist on the traditional surf and turf option: steak and sushi! For S$21.90++, you can revel in the robust flavours of the steak cut alongside refreshing pops of seafood from the chirashi for a unique taste experience unlike any other.

23 Serangoon Central
NEX Serangoon, #B1-47
Singapore 556083
Tel: +65 6753 4300
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest MRT: Serangoon
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/isteaksdiner/

ISTEAKS DINER

A brand synonymous with affordable steakhouse-quality cuts, iSTEAKS Diner has been gradually refining its menu to mimic the offerings of its more up-scale counterparts. While their prices have crept up over the years, this is partially offset by the consistent quality and sheer variety of cuts of beef available.

Identifiable by persistent snaking lines of eager diners during meal times, S$30 can get you any standard cut with your pick of two sides from their hefty list of twenty. To fully maximise your experience, bring along three of your best food buds to share the massive 1.2kg Wagyu D-Rump for just S$28.75++/pax!

Tampines Central 1
Tampines 1, #04-04/05
Singapore 529536
Tel: +65 6285 8839
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/meatnchill/

MEAT N’ CHILL

In line with its namesake, you can find this eatery packed to the brim with the bustling energy of friends and families alike especially during the weekends, big smiles and hurried chatter all-around within the bright and vibrant space.

What keeps this otherwise non-descript establishment busy is simple: considerable portions, amicable service, all served with an undertone of playfulness. When you next get their Flame-Grilled Steaks (250g) (from S$19++), skip the traditional sauces and turn up the fire with their Yolo Sauce. The team in the kitchen loves a challenge, and they appreciate customers who do so too.

805 Bukit Timah Road
6th Avenue Centre, #01-04
Singapore 279883
Tel: +65 8812 4455
Tue to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Sixth Avenue

Photo Credit: https://www.mediumrare.sg/

MEDIUMRARE BY SAVEUR

Easties might have seen MediumRare by the Saveur Group, drawn by its constant aroma of fresh grills and the modern chic space it offers. With multiple tables, even amidst the notorious Tampines lunch crowd, finding a seat will not require too extended a wait time.

With a good mix of economical (S$18++ and up) and premium cuts – their tenderloin is available for S$28++ – there is a suitable, scrumptious steak for all your dining needs at MediumRare.

Moreover, there is a Lunch Set promotion available between 12pm to 3pm daily where you can order your desired main – steak options include the ribeye (200g), striploin (200g) and flat iron (250g) – with a soup and drink for just S$16++!

2 Tampines Central 4
Century Square, #01-35
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 6789 1121
Daily: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/M4MEAST/

MEET 4 MEAT

Want Wooloomooloo quality of steak without paying the prices? Now you can do precisely that at Meet 4 Meat, the brainchild of Chef Jimmy, who used to work at Wooloomooloo, and was the old Head Chef of Rabbit Carrot Guns.

Believing that gourmet food and accessibility need not be mutually exclusive, Chef Jimmy leverages on his twenty-plus years of experience to provide premium free-range and grass-fed beef cuts at prices a significant margin below his former workplaces. Must-tries include their famed Beef Wellington (S$27) and a generous cut of ribeye (S$23) for under S$30.

228 East Coast Road
Singapore 428925
Tel: +65 8290 3605 / 9877 6264
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 3.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/steakout.sg/

STEAKOUT

No need to steakout for a good steakhouse, we’ve got you covered! Want chilled Australian and New Zealand cuts for solidly under S$30? Tired of GST and service charge tipping your choice cuts beyond budget? Steakout promises all the above with a side of your alcohol of choice.

You know a place is dedicated to its role as a steakhouse when its core offering is a ribeye cut (S$21.90 to S$36.90), and its S$29.90 Love-Me Tenderloin (200g) is a close second. If you want to stretch that dollar just a little, you can even get a full 400g Porterhouse for just S$31.90; what a steal!

89 Victoria Street
Singapore 188017
Tel: +65 6720 8103
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bras Basah

STEAKVILLE

Many times when we are looking for more economical food options, we forgo quality and freshness by settling for a mechanised supply chain that bypasses the authenticity and assurance that smaller farms provide. At Steakville, not only do you get a farm to table experience, you get to have it without breaking your bank.

The signature Hangar Steak here is priced at a fair S$20++, with all other cuts sans wagyu available for under S$30++. For something more opulent, why not add on sides like Raclette Cheese (S$8++) or a slice of Foie Gras (S$9++) to complete your meal?

91 Bencoolen Street
Sunshine Plaza, #01-56
Singapore 189652
Tel: +65 9233 5142
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Bencoolen

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/StirlingSteaks

STIRLING STEAKS

Stirling Steaks has been a mainstay for steak hunters in the East, popular for its traditional charcoal grilling technique that imparts a bold, smoky aftertaste reminiscent of more extravagant establishments.

While its cuts tend to be on the pricier side, there is a way to enjoy the unadulterated quality of Stirling’s steaks within budget – their value meal. At S$9.90++ you can get either a Flat Iron Steak or Hangar Steak (both 150g) with an addition of fries for S$1.50++. If the cuts are too scant a portion for you, doubling up only sets you back S$19.80++!

115 East Coast Road
Singapore 428804
Tel: +65 6958 0000 / 9788 2593
Mon to Wed: 6pm – 10pm
Thu to Sun: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

THE ARMOURY CRAFT BEER BAR & STEAK HOUSE

Fans of burgers would be familiar with The Armoury, renowned for its juicy, thick-set wagyu beef patties grilled to mouth-watering perfection. But did you know that their steaks are just as, if not more delectable?

Transferring that grill expertise to full steak cuts, patrons looking can look forward to wagyu options from S$20++ and up. If having one slice isn’t sufficient, gather your pals and try their Steak Buffet (S$30++/pax) instead. Available only during weekends and public holidays, get your week’s fill of protein by wallowing in all the steaks you can eat during the 90-minute duration!

36 Beach Road
#01-01
Singapore 189766
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 11pm
Fri: 11.30am – 1am
Sat: 11.30am – 12am
Sun: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thecarvingboardsg/

THE CARVING BOARD GRILL

A recent trend in Singapore’s food scene has been the blurring of lines between hawker food and traditional restaurants and eateries. Born out of this convergence is the brand, The Carving Board, a grill specialist operating out of a coffeeshop under an unremarkable HDB block.

Despite the higher price point, customers who frequent the establishment do so because they appreciate the hand-smoked flavour and grain-fed cuts. For example, a 100-days grain-fed Angus ribeye will only set you back S$26 unlike the over S$50 range of full-fledge restaurants.

Jurong Street 24
Block 252, #01-107
Singapore 600252
Tel: +65 9789 8262
Tue to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri: 12pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 3pm – 10.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Chinese Garden

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thefeatherblade/

THE FEATHER BLADE

As per its moniker, The Feather Blade specialises in a specific undercut, the feather blade cut. Found on the shoulder blade of a cow, this cut derives its name from the nerve that runs through its centre, bisecting it like a feather. Although flat, this cut tends to offer an especially tender and sweet profile.

With The Feather Blade Steak (S$21++) being the only enduring menu item, it is the natural signature dish. Although sauces, sides and toppings are all part of the á la carte menu, the cut alone is delightfully smooth and pleasantly rich courtesy of its browned butter glaze.

61 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088482

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TMH18chefs/

THE MEATHÖUSE BY 18CHEFS

More than just a steakhouse, The MeatHöuse offers hope for ex-convict to get a new lease of life through picking up a scalable life skill. Helmed by the 18Chefs Group, since 2007, Chef Benny has been helping ex-offenders reintegrate back into society while offering toothsome food that’s a cut above the competition.

Catering to all strata of society, whether you’re looking to treat yourself at the end of the week – the Salisbury Steak starts at S$16++ – or celebrating a more momentous occasion – their gargantuan 550g T-Bone is set at S$52++ –  dining here means you’re supporting more than just tasty food; you’re giving the green light to those looking for a second chance too.

2 Tampines Central 5
Century Square, #05-04
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 6260 1752
Sun to Thu: 11am – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TheRoyalsSteakhouse/

THE ROYALS STEAKHOUSE

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because The ROYALS Steakhouse is part of Halal-friendly The ROYALS brand umbrella. Despite being overshadowed by the popularity of its café, the steakhouse has been carving out a name for itself, receiving nothing short of rave reviews by regulars and newcomers alike.

While most of their steaks err on the premium end, their set lunch offers a chance to sample their celebrated protein fare within budget. For S$22++, you can savour their Ribeye Steak (160g to 180g) alongside either a soup or salad starter and your preferred side. A fair price when considering the standard they’re upholding!

10 Jalan Pisang
Singapore 199077
Tel: +65 6291 3326
Mon, Wed & Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 12pm – 11pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Bugis

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@100425

UNO BEEF HOUSE

Do uno about this neighbourhood steakhouse that has been quietly serving sizzling steaks for multiple decades? One of the last bastions of old-school Western cuisine specialists that plate up genuine fare, Uno ensures each plate is made fresh to order,  and comes with a piping hot, tender, and moist steak comparable to its more up-market counterparts.

While pricey for hawker fare, regulars continue to stand by their stalwart favourites of Black Pepper Sirloin Steak (S$13) and Tenderloin – available for only S$18! – over the years. A friendly tip: as all cuts are served on hot plates, order a step under your preferred doneness to have the steak just right when it finally arrives.

51 Lorang 5 Toa Payoh
#01-60
Singapore 310051
Tel: +65 9003 3832
Tue to Sun: 11.30am – 10.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Toa Payoh
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

What makes Singapore’s culinary landscape a peerless one is how it truly is a melting pot of literal flavours. As the home to a complex medley of cultures and heritage, this confluence brings forth a myriad of cuisines, each brimming with its own distinct palette of tastes and colours.

Beneath the veil cast by the dominant cuisines of major ethnic groups, there still exists multiple unique culinary heritages awaiting our discovery. Of this collective, one of the more prominent marginal ethnic groups is the Peranakan. With a lineage descended from a blend of Chinese, Malay and Indonesian backgrounds, many have since been assimilated into the broader Chinese or Malay ethnic groups.

Despite this dilution of cultural identity, an enduring aspect of their history is their inimitable cuisine. Renowned for having bright, vibrant flavours that are familiar yet fresh, these dishes and the equally rich history behind them have seen a recent resurgence in the local gastronomical scene.

From gourmet Michelin-starred restaurants to humble family-owned eateries, here is a collection of 18 places where you can sample a flavourful slice of Singapore’s Peranakan food heritage.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/babachewssg/

BABA CHEWS

Normally we don’t attribute much more than somewhat palatable food to a hotel’s main café and restaurant, but the in-house restaurant for the Peranakan-culture-laden Hotel Indigo, Baba Chews, deserves a special mention.

Housed in the preserved 1928 Joo Chiat Police Station, Baba Chews too draws its inspiration from the rich Peranakan heritage of its Katong location. You can find a mix of the usual Western and local favourites, except many are served with a hearty Peranakan twist – like their Salmon with Laksa Sauce and Ayam Buah Keluak Burger – making for a less intimidating introduction to Nonya flavours.

86 East Coast Road
Katong Square
Singapore 428788
Tel: +65 6723 2025
Daily: 6.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/Profile/tagohHS/

BUMBU RESTAURANT

Upon first glance, Bumbu may seem to be an odd choice for a Peranakan list with its predominantly Thai and Indonesian offerings. Although not widely advertised, it is one of the few restaurants that offer authentic yet fairly priced Nonya fare, with their Buah Keluak being a favourite among its regulars.

If you visit their Kandahar Street branch, not only do you get to dine under the shadow of the palatial Sultan Mosque, the interior of the restaurant is akin to a museum of Peranakan cultural relics from Singapore’s yesteryears.

44 Kandahar Street
Singapore 198897
Tel: +65 6392 8628
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Nicoll Highway / Bugis
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/candlenut.sg/

CANDLENUT

Upping the ante, Candlenut is no stranger to gourmands and connoisseurs of Peranakan cuisine. Upholding its title as the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant for the past three years, this is the place to be if you wish to revel in the intricacies of Nonya food.

Flaunting the rigidity of traditionalists, Candlenut showcases the malleability of Peranakan fare without compromising on authenticity. By creating contemporary dishes around the essence of the cuisine, patrons can expect exciting taste combinations such as Kueh Pie Tee with Boston Lobster and Wagyu Beef Rib Rendang.

17A Dempsey Road
Singapore 249676
Tel: 1800 304 2288 (Local calls only)
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown

CHARLIE’S PERANAKAN FOOD

Swinging to the other end of the spectrum, Charlie’s approach to Peranakan food is humble and homely, centred around the core of heartfelt cooking. A famed hawker stall in the past, Charlie (of the eatery’s namesake) found it difficult to stay away from his passion for cooking, returning in 2017 after an 8-year absence.

As though he hasn’t taken a break, Charlie continues to dish out genuine yet affordable Nonya fare for the masses, including the often overlooked but surprisingly robust Chap Chye, and the tender scrumptiousness of his Babi Pongteh.

505 Beach Road
Golden Mile Food Centre, #B1-30
Singapore 199583
Tel: +65 9789 6304
Daily: 11.30am – 7.30pm
Nearest Station: Nicoll Highway

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/chillipadinonyarestaurant/

CHILLI PADI

Another gem along the historic streets of Joo Chiat is Chilli Padi. The brand has been adorned with multiple accolades over the years for steadily cultivating the public’s palates for Nonya food over the decades with its exemplary yet reasonably priced fare. A feat considering interest in Peranakan food mostly burgeoned only in recent years.

While the food may not seem dissimilar to Chinese restaurants, the main difference here lies in the subtle difference in the seasoning and ingredients used. Expect flavours that are richer with a heavier dose of spices when dining here.

11 Joo Chiat Place
#01-03
Singapore 427744
Tel: +65 6275 1002
Daily: 11.30am –2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://godmama.sg/

GODMAMA

Despite being one of the newer Peranakan establishments, Godmama manages to entice with its modern Peranakan fare, netting a spot in the 2019 Chope Diners’ Choice Hall of Fame New Restaurant of the Year category

Helmed by a trio of Peranakans looking to keep the food of their heritage alive, you can find a blend of traditional favourites and modern iterations of Nonya cuisine inspired by their real-life Godmama. For the former, look towards either the egg skin popiah or the babi assam; for the latter, the Godmama’s Otak Otak Benedict and Buah Keluak Bolognese Pasta are popular choices.

109 North Bridge Road
Funan Mall, #04-07
Singapore 179105
Tel: +65 6970 0828
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

GUAN HOE SOON RESTAURANT

Operating since 1953, Guan Hoe Soon is one of the few remaining old-school Peranakan restaurants in Singapore. Found inside a shophouse along the streets of Joo Chiat, this eatery exudes a simple, time-worn charm similar to the comfort of a family dining room, finished with a small collection of Nonya vintage tableware.

From deceptively simple sides like their delightfully piquant otah, to more extravagant mains like the rich flavours of their assam pomfret, a meal at Guan Hoe Soon entails returning to the roots of the Peranakan heritage through an uncomplicated exploration of classic dishes.

40 Joo Chiat Place
Singapore 427764
Tel: +65 6344 2761 / +65 9633 2833 (Whatsapp only)
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

HOUSE OF PERANAKAN

 Bob Seah, owner of the House of Peranakan group of restaurants, is one of the bulwarks of the local Peranakan food scene. Besides upholding the traditional culinary culture of his heritage, Seah has reinvented multiple dishes without losing the spirit that defines the cuisine. This has accumulated into the introduction of claypot-based Nonya dishes like the Itek Sioh and into Peranakan-inspired items as with the Nonya Crayfish and Assam Prawns.

Still going strong, Seah continues to manoeuvre the kitchens of his establishments, handpicking his produce and experimenting with modern combinations of familiar Peranakan flavours.

103 Frankel Avenue
Singapore 458225
Tel: +65 6445 2404 / 6733 4411
Tue to Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Kembangan
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/indigobluekitchen

INDIGO BLUE KITCHEN

Indigo Blue Kitchen might initially feel like any other respected fine dining establishment with its bright interior and distinct lines. However, when you catch a respite within its walls, the sharpness of the environment softens with the warm service and homespun food, bringing about a relaxation not unlike that of visiting family.

Inspired by the memories of childhood flavours, the dishes here maintain the classic profiles of Peranakan cuisine, with the occasional injection of playfulness to ease the uninitiated into the fare. Despite its assuming appearance, their Nonya popiah is a must-try for its hidden kaleidoscope of flavours.

1 Scotts Road
Shaw Centre, #03-09/10/11
Singapore 228208
Tel: +65 6235 3218
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/whitehouse.indocafe/

INDOCAFE

One of the more alluring facets of Peranakan fare is the fluidity of its fare; drawing influences from foundational Chinese, Indonesian and Malay cuisines, Nonya food can take on a spectrum of flavours, with different iterations drawing more from one base cuisine over others.

Amidst the polished wood and burnished antiques, Indocafe sits in a stately colonial bungalow, The White House. Serving up Peranakan food with heavier Penang influences, patrons can look forward to food hued with a more intricate complexity of flavours. Among their signatures are the quintessential rendang dishes and their lavish version of Assam Laksa.

35 Scotts Road
Singapore 228227
Tel: +65 6733 2656
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Newton

Photo Credit: www.hungrygowhere.com/user/jenifer-tan/bb560b00

NONYA DELICATESSEN

Found in a kiosk-like area by an escalator in Bukit Timah Plaza, Nonya Delicatessen is testament to how a fancy kitchen is welcomed, but unnecessary in preparing genuine and tasty Peranakan food. Maintained by the second generation husband and wife duo, they spend each day preparing the menu through family-inherited traditional techniques.

Especially popular during lunch hour, keep an eye out for their aromatic Nasi Kunyit and luscious Nonya Laksa if you manage to beat the crowd. Complete your meal with some desserts; the nectarous Chendol and Chendol Agar Agar are longstanding crowd favourites.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-K69
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 6469 1166
Mon to Wed, Fri to Sun: 11.30am – 4pm
Thu: 11.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: King Albert Park

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/oldbibik/

OLD BIBIK’S PERANAKAN KITCHEN

Another gem located in the Peranakan enclave of Katong-Joo Chiat, Old Bibik is located on the ground floor of a hole-in-the-wall space along a row of dowdy shophouses. The interior is just as discreet, modestly decorated with marble-top tables and tiled floors; it can be easily mistaken for someone’s grandparents’ dining room if it weren’t for the bright menu hanging in its centre.

A wonderful spot to host family meals at, there are certain dishes that constantly make appearances on the surrounding tables. The foremost is Old Bibik’s Nyonya Curry Chicken, a much-acclaimed dish by regulars and newcomers alike.

328 Joo Chiat Road
#01-02
Singapore 427585
Tel: +65 8450 7996
Mon & Wed to Sun: 12pm – 10pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TheBlueGinger/

THE BLUE GINGER

While Candlenut is the only Michelin-star adorned restaurant thus far, there are other Peranakan establishments that serve just as enthralling fare without needing prospective diners to burn a sizable hole in their wallets.

Fitting this bill is The Blue Ginger, a Bib Gourmand awardee that prides itself in offering Nonya fare that doesn’t compromise on the cuisine’s abundant and nuanced flavours. A favourite by many of Peranakan lineage, but often overlooked for its glitzier cousins by the general masses, their signature Ngoh Hiang and Sotong Keluak might convince you to make this just your new go-to Nonya restaurant.

97 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088518
Tel: +65 6222 3928
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/ThePeranakanSG/

THE PERANAKAN RESTAURANT

True to its moniker, stepping into The Peranakan brings forth no doubt that you’re entering a Nonya abode, given how the place is embellished with constellations of geometric shapes and florals characteristic of traditional Peranakan décor.

Found in Orchard, a meal at The Peranakan is not meant to be a simple affair. Specialising in Tok Panjang, a type of Nonya feast commissioned by affluent Peranakan families to celebrate special and momentous occasions, dining here begets an opulent and elaborate selection of classic Peranakan dishes that will provide a comprehensive and decadent sample of what Straits fare is like.

442 Orchard Road
Claymore Connect, Level 2
Singapore 238879
Tel: +65 6262 4428
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/tingkatpm/

TINGKAT PERAMAKAN

For those familiar with the PeraMakan brand, TingKat PeraMakan is the dressed-down version of its original counterpart, serving a similar spread albeit at more conservative portions and prices. Instead of having a to order a collection of sharing plates, tables can opt to instead subsist on solo portions to better tailor to their individual preferences.

Having a more economical price point does not mean the food is of any lesser quality. Their trademark Buah Keluak is still a delectably creamy delight, and their rendang dishes are equally enrapturing with their fork-pulling tender profiles.

10 Bukit Chermin Road
Keppel Club, Level 3
Singapore 109918
Tel: +65 6377 2829
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@annachung

TOK PANJANG NONYA CAFÉ

Move aside Nonya Delicatessen, you now have competition, and one that is on the same floor! Run by a plucky Peranakan patriarch, do not conflate this eatery with the House of Peranakan’s Tok Panjang lest you incur a (mostly) good-natured telling off by said owner.

Offering a similar spread of local favourites, the difference here is not only stylistic (the food is a tad sweeter) – the portions are heftier, the food is more heartfelt, and the service is a lot more personable. Aside from their beloved mee rebus and mee siam duo, their assortment of kuehs are marvellous as well.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-52C
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 9273 7979
Daily: 9am – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: King Albert Park

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/truebluecuisine/

TRUE BLUE CUISINE

What better way to experience Peranakan culture than by dining within a restored century-old Peranakan mansion? In addition to savouring immaculately prepared Nonya dishes, all diners will have the opportunity to dine among the private collection of fixtures and mantelpieces of a wealthy Peranakan household for a true blue, immersive culinary experience.

After partaking in the restaurant’s Bib Gourmand awarded fare – their Udang Kuah Nanas and Oyster Omelettes are definitely worth a try –  continue your Nonya journey by heading to the Peranakan Museum next door to explore other aspects of the Peranakan culture.

47/49 Armenian Street
Peranakan Museum
Singapore 179937
Tel: +65 6440 0449
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Bras Basah
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

VIOLET OON

A darling of the local Peranakan food scene, Violet Oon has been steadily converting Singaporeans to her outstanding Nonya fare one dish at a time, enamouring palates and hearts alike with her exquisite flavours and elegant visuals. Each outlet is furnished in a contemporary palette and flourished with a liberal incorporation of traditional Peranakan elements.

Coalescing Peranakan classics with the gastronomical muses of her travels, from the refreshing sweetness of her Kuay Pie Tee to the poignant flavours of her flavourful fusion Buah Keluak Pasta, a visit here will bring you on a gastronomical round-the-world trip anchored by the familiar flavours of Nonya cuisine.

2 Orchard Turn
ION Orchard, #03-22
Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 9834 9935
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

We’ve all been there. It’s late, the clock’s ticking, and no matter how hard you try, you just can’t sleep. Or maybe it’s another night of burning the midnight oil, latent stress of deadlines impeding your rest. Or perhaps you’re just a night owl, preferring to expand your energy when the moon is high in the sky. Whatever the reason, past a certain hour, after the remnants of your dinner has long evaporated, hunger pangs start once more, rendering ineffective whatever it is you’re trying to accomplish.

The next time this happens, instead of subsisting on yet another packet of chips, grab your keys and wallet, and head down to one of these Muslim-friendly late-night establishments. Better yet, call a few of your fellow insomniacs for a late-night food hunting session – after all, food always tastes better when enjoyed with others right?

Featuring everything from dim sum to full-fledged zi char restaurants – yes, there is more to Muslim-friendly late-night snacking in Singapore than your usual prata options – here is a list of 15 places that offer midnight makan menus suitable for our Muslim friends. Because when living in a food haven like Singapore, you should never have to go hungry regardless of the hour!

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/ruff.yen.yong/

AL-AMEEN EATING CORNER [HALAL]

The north of Singapore isn’t exactly known for having a generous spread of food places to dine at, and this problem is compounded when you consider options available long after dark. Thankfully, Al-Ameen is here to provide late-night sustenance with their flavourful array of Indian food.

Even during the later hours, instead of settling for a premade prata, feel free to request for a fresh one to be made for you instead. For a light yet addictive snack, dip their coin pratas in your choice of curry for an easy-to-pop treat!

35 Marsiling Industrial Estate Road 3
#01-11
Singapore 739257
Tel: +65 6366 1740
Open 24 hours
Nearest Station: Woodlands
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/AlAzharRestaurantSG/

AL-AZHAR EATING RESTAURANT [HALAL]

Synonymous with late-night goers for supper fare, Al-Azhar’s hearty Indian-Muslim food is very much welcomed after a long night of activities. Boasting an extensive menu that includes everything from traditional Indian dishes to Thai seafood, there’s always a freshly cooked meal waiting for you regardless of the hour at Al-Azhar.

If you head to their refurbished Bukit Timah outlet, you can enjoy Italian and Mediterranean cuisine items on top of their usual selection. Be warned – the restaurant starts to fill up quickly once the sun begins to set!

11 Cheong Chin Nam Road
Singapore 599736
Tel: +65 6466 5052
Open 24 hours
Nearest Station: Beauty World
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/BLPNL/

BOON LAY POWER NASI LEMAK [MUSLIM-OWNED]

Far in the West corner of Singapore is Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak (BLPNL), a long-time supper favourite for those living in the vicinity. Contrary to your usual stalls, this stall’s queue mainly picks up after 10pm, when throngs of tired students and office workers start to congregate.

The longevity of this brand isn’t just from its monopoly of the West side’s supper crowd. So prominent is its nasi lemak’s reputation – their chicken wings are fried to golden perfection – that it is one of the only places in Singapore where you can request for islandwide delivery with no minimum order!

221B Boon Lay Place
Boon Lay Place Food Village, #01-106
Singapore 642221
Tel: +65 6266 4466
Mon: 4.30pm – 3.30am
Tue to Sun: 6.30am – 3.30am
Nearest Station: Lakeside

ENAK ENAK HONGKONG TEA HOUSE [HALAL]

Feeling peckish past midnight and want some bite-sized items instead of an overly heavy meal? If you’re tired of settling for heavy and oily options, pop by food haven, Simpang Bedok, to satiate your hunger with some Halal-certified dim sum!

A rare sight to behold considering how most teahouses stop serving dim sum before dinner, Enak Enak thrives off the thick throngs of insomniacs that frequent its establishment. To help narrow down their offerings for when you next covet these morsels, start off with their Har Kow and Pan Fried Carrot Cake.

340/342 Bedok Road
Singapore 469524
Tel: +65 6246 1211
Daily: 10am – 6am
Nearest Station: Tanah Merah
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Many dishes make up the foundation of Singapore’s delicious fare, however, many of the non-Malay cuisine items are inaccessible to our Muslim friends due to dietary restrictions. Wanting to fill this gap, Encik Tan offers a mixture of local Chinese favourites under its Halal-certified brand.

Craving Muslim-friendly fishball noodles as a post-OT supplement? Longing for the heartiness of wanton noodles to perk you up during a long night? Now every single Singaporean can enjoy the full extent of our local food collective, and at all hours of the day!

(Take note that only these following outlets are 24-hour: Northpoint City, Our Tampines Hub, Waterway Point and Changi Airport T3)

930 Yishun Avenue 2
Northpoint City North Wing, #01-07
Singapore 769098
Tel: +65 6370 1155
Open 24 hours
Nearest Station: Yishun
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/sayang_rahimah/

KAMPUNG GLAM CAFÉ [MUSLIM-OWNED]

Located just off Arab Street under the splendour of the area’s Sultan Mosque, Kampung Glam Café is a decently-sized café popular with the area’s residents and tourists alike. Typically crowded during meal times, you can find many tables enjoying their hefty plates of Nasi Lemak and dipping Roti Kirai into vibrant curries.

Night owls can enjoy authentic Kampung fare with a side of people-watching whilst seated by the bustling late-night crowd that populate the picturesque Bussorah Street.

17 Bussorah Street
Singapore 199438
Tel: +65 6294 1697
Tue to Sun: 8am – 2am
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Bugis / Nicoll Highway

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@rwan

MAK’S PLACE – THE HAWKERANT [MUSLIM-OWNED]

While zi char stalls are aplenty in Singapore, finding one that is Muslim-friendly is a more difficult task. Add on the criterion of staying open past midnight and you’ll be really squeezed for choices. However, you live in the East, there’s one such option at your doorstep, Mak’s Place.

Standing out not only with its diverse menu of Chinese-Muslim dishes but also its scrumptious fare – the Butter Sotong is a must-try – Mak’s Place is a wonderful location for when you’re looking for something more substantial a tad after traditional closing hours. Fair notice: while the food is usually worth the wait, expect a slow service on most days.

401 Changi Road
Singapore 419847
Tel: +65 6844 765
Tue, Thu to Sun: 4pm – 1am
Wed: 4.30pm – 1am
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Kembangan

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@springtomorrow

MR TEH TARIK EATING HOUSE [HALAL]

For late-hour cravings of all things local, find your way to Mr Teh Tarik Eating House for an eclectic and appetising array of zi char favourites and local delights. Fantastic for night-owls in bigger groups, the extensive fare is bound to satisfy even your fussiest member while keeping prices economical for all.

If zi char is too heavy a supper option, why not try some of their bestselling single-dish mains such as the enticingly aromatic Halal chicken rice or the burnished crisp of a protein penyet of your choice? Don’t forget to round off your meal with a helping of putu piring of Haig Road’s fame!

728 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6
#01-4200
Singapore 560728
Open 24 hours
Nearest Station: Ang Mo Kio
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.yelp.com.sg/user_details?userid=nF5ySHfiUS0v30njNniOjg

R.K. EATING HOUSE [MUSLIM-OWNED]

For the ultimate late-night prata experience, look no further than R.K. Eating House. Sure, prata houses are a dime in a dozen, but what makes R.K. a notable exception is simple: abundant (really abundant) food at seriously affordable prices.

Most renowned for their tissue prata, for just S$5.50, you will be met with a magnificent towering behemoth drizzled in your choice of sauce or syrup. And yes, it tastes just as good as its more conservatively-sized counterparts. If that isn’t enough of a challenge, wash it down with an equally colossal 5-litre milo or teh tarik tower.

1 Kensington Park Road
Singapore 557253
Tel: +65 6356 9003
Open 24 hours
Nearest Station: Serangoon

Photo Credit: https://spize.sg/

SPIZE [HALAL]

If you head over to Simpang Bedok, a stretch famed for late-night Muslim-friendly food options, there’s a good chance that most of the crowd there is converged around Spize. With a menu as comprehensive as theirs – Thai food? Check. Indian food? Check. Mediterranean food? That’s a check too. – it’s no wonder Spize is a magnet for supper food hunters!

Besides the usual prata options, Spize things up a little by trying their Mediterranean – the hummus is a surprisingly enjoyable number – and Thai fare. Alternatively, go for the perky Spize Burger, a favourite among the younger crowd for its easy-to-chow build and toothsome finish.

336 Bedok Road
Bedok Shopping Complex
Singapore 469512
Tel: +65 6337 7493
Sun to Thurs, Sun: 10am – 3am
Fri & Sat: 10am – 3.30am
Nearest Station: Bedok
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/srisunexpress/

SRI SUN EXPRESS [HALAL]

A quintessential supper food item, pratas are many of our choice of comfort food during the late hours of the night. Sri Sun Express knows that, and has spent the decades refining its prata menu to include a staggering 54 unique prata flavours!

Instead of settling for traditional flavours like egg and cheese, why not reinvigorate your faltering energy with their signature Sugar Rush Prata instead? For those in a big group (or looking for a challenge), liven up the table by ordering their jumbo three-litre tall drink tower to round off the night.

56 Serangoon Garden Way
Singapore 555952
Tel: +65 6282 2325
Open 24 hours
Nearest Station: Lorong Chuan
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/tang_tea_house_hong_kong_cafe/

TANG TEA HOUSE [HALAL]

No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you. There is another Muslim-friendly, late-night dim sum spot! Located mainly in the East as well, Tang Tea House is helmed by a kitchen team of Shanghainese chefs who have spent multiple years refining the art of dim sum making.

Be it dim sum staples such as siew mai, golden sand buns, or your favourite paus, at Tang, you can look forward to quality dim sum items easily comparable to any other respected establishment. Complement these goodies with popular zi char mains – we’re looking at the delectable Beef Hor Fun – for a fulfilling supper meal experience that’s both easy on your stomach as it is on your wallet.

357/359 Bedok Road
Singapore 469545
Tel: +65 6445 9100
Sun to Thu: 11am – 2am
Fri & Sat: 11am – 3am
Nearest Station: Tanah Merah
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/ramenstall/

THE RAMEN STALL [HALAL]

Want something other than prata for supper? Now you can add ramen to your list of supper places! At The Ramen Stall – sister brand to The Ramen House – not only do you get your pick of ramen, you’ve the main entourage of a typical Japanese restaurant menu at your disposal as well.

If a warm bowl of noodles isn’t sufficient to rejuvenate your spirit during cooler nights, turn up the heat with the stall’s signature Volcano Ramen. In the unlikely event that the chilli-padi-infused fiery red broth doesn’t heat you right up, few other things will!

787 North Bridge Road
Singapore 198755
Tel: +65 6655 0800
Mon to Fri: 5pm – 5am
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 5am
Nearest Station: Lavender

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Yassinkampung/

YASSIN KAMPUNG SEAFOOD [HALAL]

Designed to look as though you’ve just stepped into a kampung village of days yonder, Yassin Kampung Seafood holds within its space a rustic, timeworn charm reminiscent of not just a cultural, but also a culinary past.

True to its moniker, the brand specialises in old-school dishes, moderated for the modern palate by galvanising old combinations with contemporary ingredients. Traditionalists can look towards classics like the 3-Flavoured Fish and Chilli Crab, while those looking for more unique options can try the intriguing durian chicken and their striking ma la offerings.

676 Woodlands Drive 71
#01-03
Singapore 730676
Tel: +65 6667 3481
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11am – 1am
Fri & Sat: 11am – 2am
Nearest Station: Admiralty
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@68371

89.7 SUPPER CLUB [HALAL]

It’s late at night, your stomach’s rumbling, and you’re craving everything yet nothing at the same time. But where can you head to at this late an hour to satiate your cravings? Simple, pop by 89.7 Supper Club and let its huge variety direct your whims instead!

With all major cuisines offered here – Chinese (including dim sum!), Indian, Malay and Western – pick your favourites off its zi char styled menu, kick back with a drink, and let the comfort of having warm, late-night food revitalise you. (Pst, don’t overlook their chicken rice; its fragrant rice and silken chicken makes it worth the trip!)

5 Changi Village Road
#01-2035
Singapore 500005
Tel: +65 6214 1897
Open 24 hours
Nearest Station: Changi Airport
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

New year (not just any new year, but a new decade!), new me! Forget your holiday self, who went overboard with binge eating. That was 2019’s you – 2020 is the time of new beginnings, and you’re finally going to stick to your new year resolution! What better way is there to kick the decade off than with a healthier and trimmer you?

When we talk about health-conscious eating and dieting, the first food item that comes to mind is salad. Especially for those carnivores among us, the thought of eating salads regularly can seem an overly daunting task. It doesn’t help that many might imagine salads as being plain tasting, monotonous to prepare, and more expensive than more substantial food options; it is no wonder that few manage to see this particular resolution through to the year’s end.

Rather than embark on an insurmountable task of breaking your bank (and spirit), join us on a hunt for good, affordable, wholesome foods. We’ve compiled a list of salad bars that serve up fresh, palatable and affordable salads for under, or at, the S$12 mark. You can now have your green(back)s and eat them too!

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/sg.coldstorage/

COLD STORAGE SALAD COUNTER

The next best thing to making salads yourself, Cold Storage’s Salad Counter is heaven-sent for those of us looking for a more affordable option without compromising on portion size and quality.

At older bars, prices start at S$4.99 to takeaway a DIY salad with three toppings and free mixed seeds or dried fruits.

For the newer CREATE salad sections, you can choose either a DIY salad – S$7.90 for two toppings and additional meat – or a premade bowl to go or to have in-house. Besides having more premium items like Black Pepper Ragu, the house bowls are equally satisfying – we suggest the salmon-centric Fresh Off The Hook (S$11.40) and the Thai-inspired Suay Mak Mak! (S$8.90).

252 North Bridge Road
Raffles City Shopping Centre, #B1-01
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 6336 2676 / 2267
Daily: 8am – 11pm
Nearest Station: City Hall
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

MUNCH SALADSMITH

For those wary about not just price, but also the monotony of a vegetable-based dish, Munch Saladsmitth may just be the place for you.

Boasting a team with over a hundred years of cumulative F&B experience and with the motto of serving only food that the kitchen team is willing to eat too, you can expect even their salads to hold a heartiness and full-bodied flavour profile that is atypical of many of its contemporaries.

Fancy fish? Go for the lighter option of John Dory (S$12). Craving chicken? The Roast Chicken (S$12) is a flavourful take on the classic salad staple without incurring any sinful penalties.

1 Raffles Place
One Raffles Place, #B1-16
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 6438 1456
Mon to Fri: 8am – 9.30pm
Sat: 10am – 4pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Raffles Place
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/saladcosg/

SALAD CO. SG

Finding economical food in the CBD can be an uphill task, let alone something that is both easy on the calories as well as your wallet. Providing economical salads (from S$5.90) since its inception in 2016, Salad Co. SG provides a gastronomical (and economical) respite for the health-conscious population in the CBD.

Besides the price, Salad Co. SG has another draw: instead of being forced to subsist on a mandatory base, you can choose to go without here. Say goodbye to the days of filling up on undesirable vegetables; now you can eat what you really want to instead!

10 Anson Road
International Plaza, #01-17
Singapore 0799903
Tel: +65 6221 9556
Mon to Fri: 10am – 4pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

SALADSTOP!

If eating sustainably is as important as eating healthily to you, this brand fulfils that criterion and more.

As one of the pioneers to healthy eating in Singapore, Saladstop spent its years fostering ties to local communities while building on a portfolio of healthy and delicious food.

In its desire to pay homage to nature, the brand ensures that controllable ends of its supply chain comply with its core values to impart an element of sustainability in all its offerings. The next time you head over for a mix and match salad (S$9.90), you can rest assured that every item in the bowl served is honest, sustainable and trustworthy.

168 Robinson Road
Capitol Tower, #01-05
Singapore 068912
Tel: +65 6820 7670
Mon to Fri: 8.30am – 8.30pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.saladsnwraps.com.sg/

SALADS & WRAPS

As per its namesake, Salads & Wraps specialises in precisely those items. Its salads are as hefty as its wraps; their junior salad contains six toppings for S$7, while the regular with all throw-ins is at the wallet-friendly S$10. If you’ve a bigger appetite, the latter is the ideal option for you!

To start the new decade, why not venture out of your culinary comfort zone with something more interesting from the Speciality Junior Salads menu? For example, the Avocado Shrimp (S$8.50) is a wonderful alternative to more common protein bases and holds a hint of sweetness courtesy of its raisin addition.

12 Gopeng Street
Icon Village, #01-86/87
Singapore 078877
Tel: +65 9433 3860
Mon to Fri: 11am – 8pm
Sun: 11am – 3.30pm
(Closed on Saturdays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

SALMON SAMURAI

Most of us love salmon. Lusciously succulent with a wonderful brine-touched sweetness, for many of us, it is a perennial fish of choice for our salads. The next time you’re looking to scratch that salmon itch without jeopardising your diet or bank account, drop by Salmon Samurai for salmon, salmon, and more salmon.

The new concept of the Shinkansen team, Salmon Samurai has streamlined its salad bar into a DIY donburi place focusing on salmon instead. Before any weight-watchers turn away in disappointment at the inclusion of carbs, and single protein present, you can still craft a mixed greens salad (S$9.90) from this new menu that is just as substantial.

100 Tras Street
100AM, #01-11
Singapore 079027
Tel: +65 6543 6823
Daily: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/SimplyWrapps/

SIMPLY WRAPPS

Those who pick Simply Wrapps over its competitors do so for a very simple reason: there’s nowhere else in Singapore that serves up palatable salads with such an extensive list of nutritious ingredients – a whopping fifty toppings – and vibrant dressings – eighteen house specials – to pick from.

Worried about choice paralysis? Feel free to consult any of the friendly staff available, or try one of the fifteen chef creations instead. Ranging from S$9.90 to S$11.90, you can take a globetrotting taste adventure by sampling the range of country-themed bowls – if you’re cutting calories, try Amazing Thailand; for those with more leeway, Arabian Paradise is fantastically flavoured.

2 Orchard Turn
Ion Orchard, #B4-30
Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 6509 6008
Daily: 8am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://sumosalad.com/

SUMO SALAD

An Australian brand, Sumo Salad’s sole outlet in Singapore is in a rather unexpected location. Found inside Holland Village MRT Station – yes, we mean the actual station, not next to it – this kiosk capitalises on the busy footfall, and the working population and the residents in the vicinity.

Unlike the usual mix and match concept, customers get to choose from a set collection of salads (S$9.50 for small; S$10.50 for large): the Warm Moroccan Lamb is especially delightful with its blend of lemon acidity and spiced protein, while the Pumpkin & Pinenut is a sweet vegetarian alternative that’s light in flavour yet substantial in portion.

200 Holland Avenue
Holland Village MRT Station, #B1-11
Singapore 278995
Tel: +65 9088 4580
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/iceaxe/

SUNMOON FRESH

Predominantly a purveyor of fruits, the uninitiated will likely be oblivious that this is one of the most budget-friendly salads you can find in the CBD. Beginning at just S$5.80 – with additional S$1.50 top-ups for premium meats – you can get a lettuce base alongside five non-meat sides in a takeaway box.

What Sunmoon Fresh lacks in variety – they do have some interesting choices like pomegranate and guava – it makes up for in portion sizes. Deconstructing the salad during eating unveils a plentiful serving that will placate even the most voracious eaters. With unparalleled value like this, go early, or risk the daily meandering lunch queue!

114 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068583
Tel: +65 6634 3575
Mon to Fri: 8am – 7pm
Sat: 10am – 4pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/thedailycut.sg/?hl=en

THE DAILY CUT

Tired of boring, healthy meals? This 2020, there’s no need to test your will by eating bland and uninspired salads. The Daily Cut hopes to subvert that trend by plating up fresh, wholesome, nutritious food to show Singaporeans that eating healthy can be a delectable affair too.

While the menu is seasonal, the prices are not: bowls are S$9 for petite, S$12 for regular and S$15 for large.

Unsure of what to pick? This winter, go for the piquant halloumi or the alluring sweetness of the passion fruit vinaigrette to finish your salad. For the truly health-conscious, hop on their website for a detailed breakdown of your bowl’s nutritional information.

1 Raffles Place
One Raffles Place, #B1-31
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 6443 3391
Mon to Fri: 11am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

THE GREEN BAR

The Green Bar seeks to elevate the experience into a more gourmet one. How does it do that?

Firstly, it offers a curated array of freshly prepared house salads with an equally colourful mix and match selection. To really up the ante on luxury, house dressings here can contain up to thirteen ingredients!

Next, it provides cosy seating that’s comparable to any other respected establishment. Bathed in warm hues of brown, it’s comfortable and bright, making it a conducive place for the working crowd to convene during lunch hours.

The kicker? You can experience all that for between a very reasonable S$8.90 to S$13.90. What a steal!

9 Raffles Boulevard
Millenia Walk, #01-91
Singapore 039596
Tel: +65 6336 0780
Mon to Fri: 8am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: Promenade
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.thelawn.com.sg/

THE LAWN

Packed neatly inside bento boxes, The Lawn’s salads are a captivating kaleidoscope of technicolour, enticing in their vividness and brimming with freshness. By marrying style and flavours, the brand hopes to excite by moving salads from a boring, single-person dish into a viable sharing option between friends and colleagues.

While the premade bowls tend towards a pricier end of the spectrum, their Create Your Own bowls start are at a friendlier range of S$10.30 to S$10.90. Touting its tagline of “meat your greens”, you have a choice of either a traditional salad bowl with five toppings or a heavier carb-based bowl featuring your preferred grill(s) instead.

31 Biopolis Way
Nanos, #01-07
Singapore 138669
Tel: +65 6478 9739 / Whatsapp: +65 8403 3426
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

Photo Credit: https://www.thesaladbox.com.sg/

THE SALADBOX

Another salad bar furnished with a huge assortment of toppings and equally large portions, The Saladbox offers over forty ingredients – including more unorthodox items like shimeji mushrooms and red brown rice – and thirteen dressings for customers to customise to their hearts’ content.

With that vast a selection, you’d expect the luxury of choice to be translated into some form of price increment; on the contrary, the brand offers pick-your-own salads with complimentary dressing from just S$6.95. If the sheer variety is daunting, why not decide from the slew of all-day-favourites (from S$7.50) – get the timeless Crispy Caesar Salad at only S$8! – available instead?

11 Tanjong Katong Road
KINEX Shopping Mall, #B1-36
Singapore 437157
Tel: +65 6336 6265
Daily: 10am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

Photo Credit: https://www.thesaladcorner.com.sg/

THE SALAD CORNER

Yet another popular salad bar residing in the CBD, The Salad Corner has garnered a healthy crowd willing to brave the outlets’ enduring queues to get their fix of greens.

Given the intense competition in the area, The Salad Corner manages to stay afloat through the following combination: a robust serving, a broad range of toppings and an economical price tag.

While inflation has siphoned away its once extraordinarily suppressed prices, the brand keeps its regular salads under S$10, large salads around S$10, and extra-large ones around S$12 (all prices vary depending on outlet).

Here’s a hack for newcomers: send an SMS preorder to beat the queue instead!

7 Maxwell Road
Amoy Street Food Centre, #B1-41
Singapore 069111
Tel: +65 9853 4093 (SMS only)
Mon to Fri: 10am – 2.30pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar / Telok Ayer
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thesaladshopsg/

THE SALAD SHOP

A persistent quandary faced by establishments is finding balance between convenience and convictions.

For homegrown brand, The Salad Shop, this manifests through offering authentic, inventive meals that promote sustainability, while keeping prices reasonable. Additional initiatives include encouraging customers to reduce waste by bringing their own containers for a S$0.50 discount on any salad.

Keeping to its belief, its toppings and feeds are mostly common items, but with special flourishes. Whether you’re enjoying the refreshing flavours of the chilli lime cucumber or the spicy tang from the cauliflower curry turmeric, you will be promised a wholesome salad (S$9 and up) with a taste profile unlike others.

80 Raffles Place
UOB Plaza 2, #01-20
Singapore 048624
Tel: +65 6536 3686
Mon to Fri: 11am – 8pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Raffles Place
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

TOSS & TURN

Set up by the Cedele group, Toss & Turn is the chain’s answer to its customers’ demand for healthier and more customisable fare. Located mainly in the city centre, the brand serves the health-conscious population by giving them an easily accessible and affordable healthy alternative.

While most of the menu is slightly over the S$12 mark, Toss & Turn’s appeal lies in its seriously sizable salads and the fantastically full-bodied flavours contained within. To illustrate, their signature salads contain a staggering eight toppings – inclusive of protein! – a carb base, and a deliciously wicked dressing (the plum sesame is absolutely divine). Now that is a hefty meal!

290 Orchard Road
Paragon, #B1-09
Singapore 238859
Tel: +65 6974 2128
Mon to Fri: 9am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/WafukenSG/

WAFUKEN

 One of the forerunners in the local sous vide trend, Wafuken is proud to plate up food with an innate complexity of flavours without the need for excessive touch-ups, and dishes that retain the ingredients’ nutritional benefits courtesy of careful preparation.

Specialising in bowls, Wafuken’s menu is built similar to salad bars: mixing and matching protein and sides, then paying only for the items you’d chosen.

Need a protein on protein meal for gains? Sure, do you want duck, chicken, saba, or all three? Need a salad but can’t give up carbs? Why not add konnyaku and soba with your greens?

At Wafuken, the gastronomical creations are yours.

12 Marina View
Asia Square Tower 2, #02-05
Singapore 018961
Tel: +65 9459 6073
Mon to Fri: 11am – 8pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Downtown
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/WellDressedSaladBarSg/

WELL DRESSED SALAD BAR & CAFÉ

Would you believe us if we told you one of the most long-lived and popular salad bars in Singapore is vegetarian? Created by the Eight Treasures Vegetarian Restaurant group, Well Dressed Salad Bar has been quietly showing the health-conscious crowd that salads do not need a meat supplement to give it flavour and depth.

The secret to the magnetism of the brand – besides its humble from S$5.50 price range – lies not in offering extraordinary ingredients. Instead, it excels by providing toppings of an exceptional level of freshness, and by infusing extra dimensions to their bowls through dressings made by melding usually disparate flavours into a refreshing, cohesive new whole.

282A South Bridge Road
Singapore 058831
Tel: +65 6534 7787
Daily: 12pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/wheatbaum/

WHEAT BAUMKUCHEN

Rounding off the list is another Japanese-styled establishment that provides DIY bowls (from S$10). While their other outlets predominantly serve premade creations, WHEAT Design Your Own Bowl kiosks hand customers the ability to enjoy the brand’s healthy, tantalising fare – salmon sashimi in your salad, yum! – with the luxury of customisation.

Alternatively, if there isn’t a DYOB kiosk in accessible proximity, you can still opt for a premade salad at WHEAT’s other branches. Indulge in a full salmon slab atop a copious bed of greens for just S$12, or get the Penguin salad – no penguins here, just chicken and eggs – which features a soba base for only S$10.

313 Somerset Road
313@Somerset, #B3-46
Singapore 238895
Tel: +65 9012 3037
Daily: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Somerset
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Just thinking about the addictive crunch and tender interior of Korean fried chicken is enough to send many of us into a passionate frenzy; in contrast, the disappointment from a limp, oil-sodden number warrants a frenzied outrage. To prevent yourself from feeling similar disgruntlement, head over to Chir Chir for a clucking good time!

Not just any other Korean fried chicken brand, Chir Chir (say it with us, chi-re chi-re) doesn’t just hail from the birthplace of said dish, it is one of the more prominent chimaek – a Korean portmanteau of chicken and beer – franchises with over 100 outlets in South Korea. To preserve the authenticity of its fare, all Singapore outlets use sauces and marinades imported from South Korea. No watered-down flavours here!

Adding on to its extensive menu, Chir Chir is opening up 2020 with a host of 4 new delectable chicken mains: Cream Onion Chicken, Mala Chicken, Nacho Chicken and Yu-Ling Chicken. As each dish features a distinct, fusion-flavoured punch that’s perfect with an ice-cold beer, sample them all for a globe-trotting gastronomical Korean fried chicken experience unlike any other!

From 26 Feb to 10 Mar 2020, our readers can quote ‘ladyironchef’ to enjoy 25% off with an order of 2 mains* (all full-sized Chicken dishes excluding 6/12/18 pc chicken).

MALA CHICKEN

You’ve heard of Korean fried chicken slathered with the iconic deep red, sweet-peppery yangnyeom sauce, but have you ever tried mala Korean fried chicken? Keeping on a parallel spicy tangent with a regional twist, Chir Chir has decided to capitalise on the prevalent local mala craze by combining its bestselling chicken with the piquant spices of mala dishes to create Mala Chicken (S$25.90++) as part of its new Signature menu.

Hued in a milder red than with its yangnyeom cousin, the Mala Chicken pieces are deceptive in their colouration, with only the bits of mala spices adhering to the exterior of the chicken suggestive of the flavour within. Despite the glossy sheen, each piece holds Chir Chir’s signature crunch, with the fragments of mala spices further adding texture.

For those concerned about a blast of spice, fret not, for each mouthful brings about a slight bite of numbing spice – enough to jolt your taste buds awake without masking the taste of the chicken beneath. To get this rich, smoky mala spice infusion, the kitchen pan-fries the ready fried chicken in a heavy potpourri à la mala xiang guo dishes, mixing until the spices envelope and permeate each piece.

YU-LING CHICKEN

For the spice-shy, or those looking for something with both sinful and healthier halves, look towards the other new item on the Signature menu, the Yu-Ling Chicken (S$23.90++). Pivoting to an antipode of Chinese flavours, while the Mala Chicken has a husky smoulder of spice, the Yu-Ling Chicken subsists on a refreshingly tart profile courtesy of its relish.

Equally vibrant in visuals, the dish is an eye-catching array of colours: golden chicken strips adorned with vivid relish contrasted against the bright onion rings and lush green salad. More than a perfunctory combination, the salsa brings forth a compelling contrast between the full, richness of the fried chicken and effervescent lightness of the salsa, allowing for extended enjoyment without the onset of taste saturation.

More than a secondary thought, the salad is crisp and fresh, making it wonderful for interrupting the heavier flavours from the chicken and salsa. For an added flavour dimension, the leaves are drizzled with a hot bacon dressing that imparts a subtle spicy and savoury note that makes munching on greens that much more gratifying.

CREAM ONION CHICKEN

Before you decide to fill up on the Signature dishes, take a gander at the latest entrants to Chir Chir’s Special menu. Opening with the Cream Onion Chicken, it seamlessly combines two key elements that many adore into a single dish, allowing diners to fully appreciate the piquant zest from the cream without losing the crispness of the chicken.

Instead of creating a complex ritual of sour cream layering wizardry – which can easily throw off the crisp-moist duality that Chir Chir has perfected – the kitchen team came up with a simple yet effective solution: create a mouth-wateringly luscious cream onion sauce that doubles as a dip. A prime culinary example of Occam’s razor at work.

Each serving comes with a generous heap of sour cream finished with an equally abundant stack of finely chopped onion rings. Enjoy this dish by rolling your chosen chicken chunk in a gratuitous amount of sauce before chowing down. The brine of the chicken from its secret marinade is complemented by the tangy sauce, with the cream made even more flavourful by a tinge of sweet acidity from the onion slices. Don’t forget to pair the occasional mouthful with an onion ring; its invigorating freshness helps to keep any potential cloying at bay.

NACHO CHICKEN

Spinning over to our final destination of North America, Chir Chir’s other new Special menu inclusion is a Tex-Mex inspired number, Nacho Chicken (S$25.90++). A visual delight, the lively orange chicken tenders circled by a ring of corn tortilla chips make for a fantastic focal dish at any table.

Dusted in an abundant helping of hearty chicken chilli cheese powder, in line with its gastronomical influence, each bite of chicken tenders elicits the peppery profile of chilli complemented with a smoulder of cheese. Unlike other dishes that see one profile dominating the other, Chir Chir ensures that both are equally present – the chilli to bring an enticing thrill to each mouthful, and the cheese to intensify the intrinsic savoury flavour of the chicken.

Don’t forget about the chips! Have them with the chicken, have them as pre-meal finger food, or have them later on the side; regardless of your choice, the chips offer a textural variance against the juicy, tender bite of the poultry. Moreover, these chips go marvellously with a chilled drink of your choice, and keep your fingers busy with the ebb and flow of the table’s conversation.

For those who prefer to stick to more traditional flavours, or for patrons who would rather masticate on a single-person serving instead, take a look at Chir Chir’s customisable à la carte offerings instead.

Available in the classic Crispy, Garlicky, Spicy and Curry flavours, diners can decide on which type of cut (tenders or drumlets and winglets) they want, as well as the number of pieces (6pc for S$9.90++; 12pc for S$17.90; 18pc for S$24.90++) they are most comfortable having.

CRISPY FLAVOUR

Of the three flavours we will explore, the most unassuming albeit the most time-honoured of the lot is the Crispy Chicken. In line with its moniker, this variant has a no-holds-barred crunch that will put most fried chicken establishments to shame. Despite the crispiness, the batter is thin and airy, and does not leave a sheen of oil in its wake; a testament to the kitchen’s exemplary skill.

GARLICKY FLAVOUR

While a full-on garlic flavour may cause some of us to retreat in unease, Chir Chir manages to retain the zest of garlic in the seasoning process without incurring too pungent an aftertaste. This leaves behind a remarkably flavourful number that is made even more alluring by a suggestive simmering of spice from the presence of dried chilli slices.

SPICY FLAVOUR

A flavour quintessential to Korean fried chicken, this iteration is beloved for its extra dimension of sweetness while remaining every bit as palatable and sapid as the Garlicky Chicken. Despite the sticky, saccharine veneer, the chicken retains its trademark crisp exterior, creating a divergent mouthfeel between the softer pliant sauce and the crackling crunch beneath.

MAC & CHEESE

Still hungry for something else after your chicken main? Why not look towards Chir Chir’s list of sides to supplement your meal! For those seeking something else that is savoury, the Mac & Cheese is a particularly sumptuous option with its thick, mouth-watering layers of cheese.

Preceded by the characteristic earthy aroma of the cheese mixture, the dish arrives in a heavy iron-clad pan blanketed in a creamy heap of sun-touched gold. Cheese-lovers will be pleased to know that the blend is created from a composite of multiple cheeses and flourished with shavings of cheddar and mozzarella for the occasional spike of more intense flavour.

Pulling apart the mixture reveals a substantial condensed layer of macaroni. Deeply embedded in the bed of cheeses, each piece of pasta is not only drenched in the mix, the cheeses have permeated the space within as well, which makes for an especially delightful eating experience.

HONEY GRAPE SALAD

Prefer to subsist on something sweet instead? Opt for Chir Chir’s Honey Grape Salad (S$16.90++) for a post-meal dessert number that not only rejuvenates your palate, but helps whet any floundering appetites as well.

An enlivening dish that is as interesting on the palate as it is on the eyes, each mouthful invites an assortment of textures and flavours: the sweet dewiness of the grapes; the hard bite and mild taste of the almonds; the granular saccharine profile of the dried raisins; the slight bitterness of the walnut morsels. To coalesce the mix into a coherent whole, it is finished with homemade whipped cream, ricotta cheese and a light misting of honey. If the dish is too sweet for your liking, squeeze in a few drops of lemon to even the flavour out.

BEVERAGES

Alternatively, why not grab a cold drink to accompany your meal instead? Even if you’re a stickler for classic beverages, take time to peruse Chir Chir’s extensive list of unique concoction. Be it the fizzy, luminous flavours of a sparkling fruit drink, the smooth richness of a fruit smoothie, or a more playful alcoholic-infused variant – with a name like Lady Killer, it is bound to leave a frisky impression! – there is always a refreshing, ambrosial drink for you at Chir Chir.

The next time you feel the urge to luxuriate in the decadence of Korean fried chicken, grab a few of your food buddies and head over to Chir Chir. With an unparalleled selection of traditional and fusion fried chicken flavours, and an equally extensive list of in-house drink creations, all housed within a bright and inviting space with pleasant service, a chimaek gathering at Chir Chir will likely be a memorable one unlike any other.

ladyironchef x Chir Chir promotion
26 Feb to 10 March 2020
Get 25% off total bill with order of any 2 Mains*

*Mains = Signature Menu/Special Menu/Fried Chicken/Dakgalbi & Jjimdak/Roasted Chicken
Exclusions = Combos & Ala Carte 6/12/18pc Chicken/ Half-portion Jjimdak/Half-portion Chir Chir Mi Chir

Terms & Conditions:
- Quote “Ladyironchef” to enjoy this promotion
- Valid for dine-in only
- Discount only applies to full-priced items; not applicable to sets or 1-for-1 beer
- This promotion cannot be stacked with other discounts or offers

200 Victoria Street
Bugis Junction, #02-50
Singapore 188021
Tel: +65 6251 0598
Sun to Thu: 11am – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bugis
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

This post was brought to you by Chir Chir.

If you think going vegan means giving up all of your old favourite treats, think again. Gone are the days of needing to settle for a limited and uninspired palette of vegan items. With an increasing percentage of Singaporeans going vegan – be it by choice or due to health concerns – many F&B establishments have taken to including not just vegan mains, but adding vegan desserts into their menus as well.

With an abundance of vegan-friendly desserts currently available and many more being innovated by chefs islandwide, being vegan has never been this easy! Craving for a vegan cheesecake? Do you prefer to have it fluffy or dense? What about vegan ice cream and waffles? What flavour would you prefer to have it in?

Regardless of the specific dessert you are hankering after, there will likely be a vegan alternative already in existence. Otherwise, it is just a custom order away from one of the many talented vegan-friendly local chefs. To help all those with a sweet tooth out there, here is a guide to shops that sell vegan desserts to get your sweet fix at!

BERIWELL

Acai is great. So is soft serve. What if we told you that there is a place in Singapore that combines these two heavenly treats into a truly ambrosial dessert experience? That’s not all – what if said acai soft serves come in dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options too?

If that sounds too good to be true, it’s time to head down to Berriwell to give their signature healthy acai soft serves, or Superswirls, a taste! Not only are their colourful creations utterly mesmerising with their myriad of toppings, the quality ingredients allow them to taste as good as they look too!

19E East Coast Road
#01-01
Singapore 428746
Tel: +65 9182 0747
Sun to Thu: 9am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://carrotsticksandcravings.com/

CARROTSTICKS AND CRAVINGS

Eating healthy doesn’t always have to be a dreary affair. At Carrotsticks and Cravings, the culinary team strives to provide fresh and healthy options — including gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan items — without forgoing the essential taste factor. So palpable is their dedication to food that the brand shares selected recipes online to spread the joy as well!

Vegans can look forward to partaking in a creamy yet refreshing smoothie bowl garnished to camera-ready perfection. If a smoothie bowl is not your thing, a closer look at their offerings will point you to their equally enticing counterpart: Baked Chia Parfait.

75E Loewen Road
Singapore 248845
Tel: +65 8510 6313
Mon to Fri: 8am – 3pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

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CHEF ICON

For food defined by its essence rather than appearance, look no further than Chef Icon. Basing their business off the Avina Neutro concept, all items are presented in their barest forms – made using traditional methods and created with the same care and devotion as with nourishing a loved one.

The bakery-café is vegetarian and halal-friendly, and offers a smaller separate selection of vegan sweets. Whether you are tempted by the rustic array of vegan and eggless Chef Tarts, or wish to sample some of their au naturel patisserie, you can expect hotel quality treats ready for your indulgence.

5 Kampong Bahru Road
Singapore 169341
Tel: +65 9337 3900
Mon to Fri: 8am – 8pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Outram Park
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/coocacasg/

COOCAÇA

Located in the middle of the bustling Orchard stretch, you can find a colourful storefront serving up bowls of superfood laden smoothie bowls and froyo. While the yoghurt items contain dairy, vegans can look to the brand’s signature rainbow-coloured acai bowls to quench their thirst.

The ingredients that comprise the bowls may seem a tad exaggerated, but we can ensure you that every item contributes to the specifically curated taste profiles of each. If the hefty list is still insufficient, Coocaça provides an even more extensive collection of toppings to further amplify the flavours of your bowl.

541 Orchard Road
Liat Towers, #01-K1
Singapore 238881
Tel: +65 8511 9923
Daily: 8.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

DELCIE’S

Worried about the potential for contamination triggering any allergies you may have? At Delcie’s, the entire kitchen is dedicated to popular cakes recipes with these exceptions: every single cake is vegan, diabetic-friendly, gluten and common allergens-free so that you can eat with a peace of mind.

With a dedication to remaking popular cakes into healthier and more inclusive forms, patrons can expect to find vegan versions of many beloved dairy iterations. Whether you are craving for classics like carrot cake or rarer variants like tiramisu, if a cake exists, they can bake it, and make it healthy and inclusive.

Block 34 Whampoa West
#01-83
Singapore 330034
Tel: +65 6282 2951
Tue to Sun: 11am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Boon Keng

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/greendotsg/

GREENDOT

Created with the wish to spread the love for meatless eating in an accessible way, Greendot convenes a fast-casual model with a plethora of creative dishes for a fuss-free dining experience. Unconvinced that fast-casual food can be healthy? Fear not because all dishes are nutritionists-approved!

One of the smaller spinoffs from Greendot is a café space that serves desserts and drinks – try their fruit teas for a revitalising boost! – catering to the health-conscious population. With all-time favourites like smoothie and acai bowls now available, vegan diners now have a casual space where they can spend time with their friends and family at.

80 Middle Road
Bugis Junction, #01-71/72
Singapore 188024
Tel: +65 6904 4842
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

HAAKON SUPERFOODS AND JUICE

If you want a casual spot to dine at, Haakon provides not just a comfortable setting with amiable service, but a customisable and inclusive menu too. All that courtesy of its mission to empower their customers through a cosy conviviality and superfood.

What makes Haakon stand out from its competitors is how their bowls are not only more affordable, but come in two sizes: a more compact one perfect as a post-meal refreshment, and a more sizable bowl for when you are feeling especially peckish. If a bowl is still too substantial, try their smoothies for a low-calorie cold treat!

313 Orchard Road
313@Somerset, #B2-14
Singapore 238895
Daily: 10am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/HotCakesVegetarianVegan/

HOTCAKES VEGETARIAN

 Housed in Fortune Centre, HotCakes has reopened in June 2019 and is back to serving vegan and vegetarian dishes. The cakes detailed in its namesake unfortunately refer not to pancakes, but instead the assortment of dairy-free and eggless actual cakes it has on offer.

With a revolving cast of uniquely designed cakes, you can sample anything from the fragrantly moist vegan Pandan Kaya Cake, to the incredibly decadent vegan Chocolate Berries Cake. If you do find a favourite, be sure to check their listings before visiting – with new flavours being constantly innovated, it might take a while before it gets featured again.

190 Middle Road
Fortune Centre Singapore, #02-33
Singapore 188979
Tel: +65 9023 6341
Sun, Mon & Thu to Sat: 11am to 7pm
Wed: 12pm – 7pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Bras Basah / Bugis

KIND KONES

The number one spot for many looking for a central location to have a catch-up at, Kind Kones offers guilt-free ice-creams and sweets for folks with dietary restrictions. With no dairy, refined sugars, preservatives and additives in their ice-creams, alongside soy and gluten-free options, there’s a scoop of something for everyone.

If you are not enticed by their creamy vegan ice-creams – we suggest their matcha-based Blue Planet with a vanilla and blue pea twist – Kind Kones has a whole selection of other vegan sweets on their menu including a variety of equally fetching cakes, pies, cookies and even yoghurt parfaits!

583 Orchard Road
Forum The Shopping Mall #B1-27
Singapore 238884
Tel: +65 9010 8557
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/LovingHutSg/

LOVING HUT

Loving Hut is one of the biggest vegan restaurant chains in the world, and lays claim to over 200 outlets worldwide. Conceived with the vision to promote a more peaceful and harmonious existence among all living creatures, the brand offers a comprehensive vegan line-up that covers everything from mains to desserts.

Instead of cakes, the brand plates up multiple flavours of pies including favourites such as the Apple Pie and Blueberry Cheese Pie. If you intend to share said desserts, we suggest getting an ice-cream option as well – their cold silken texture goes wonderfully with the pies!

229 Joo Chiat Road
#01-01
Singapore 427289
Tel: +65 6348 6318
Mon & Wed to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 9.30pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/MBakery-1430501617252769/

M BAKERY

Hidden in a Bendemeer housing estate, M Bakery is your rare friendly neighbourhood bakery with predominantly vegan and vegetarian offerings. Past its nostalgic traditional storefront, residents can find bite-sized vegan baked goods and customisable cakes styled in ways reminiscent of old-school bakeries of our childhoods.

For cake options, the multi-year best-seller is their vegan Matcha Cake – a delicate matcha tinged number featuring alternating layers of moist sponge against fluffy cream – while fans of baked goods can go for the fluffy vegan Lotus Pandan Bread for an inexpensive portable sweet snack.

30 Bendemeer Road
Singapore 330030
Tel: +65 6391 9938
Mon to Sat: 8am – 8pm
Sun: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Boon Keng

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/naturecafe.com.sg/

NATURE CAFÉ

If you thought “hip” and “cool” do not collocate with vegan food, Nature Café is here to prove you wrong! To adapt to the local palate, the chefs have created a menu of mains and desserts that features local and regional favourites spliced with the occasional Western twist.

If you wish to have some lighter post-meal sweets, Nature Café offers an assortment of jellies typically found in traditional Chinese restaurants. If you are worried about which items are vegetarian versus vegan, look out for the milk bottle symbol – if it’s not present, you are in the green!

12 Kallang Avenue
The Aperia, #02-14/15
Singapore 339511
Tel: +65 6702 3962
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Lavender
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/Real-Food-Singapore-157013014339616/

REAL FOOD

Expanding its business model, Real Food has opened cafés with menus centred around recipes made from produce sold in its grocery chains. With a bright and inviting Scandinavian-styled interior, they are the ideal spot to spend a quiet afternoon away from the clamour of the city.

Patrons can expect to find an evolving menu of desserts available, including harder to find vegan alternatives like their lusciously plush vegan iteration of matcha tiramisu. On warmer days, we suggest trying their charmingly named Popaganda Popsicles for a truly refreshing fresh fruit treat that is certain to quench away all residual thirst!

181 Orchard Road
Orchard Central, #02-16
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6737 9516
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/sayangsonline/

SAYANG’S ONLINE CAKE SHOP

Sayang! This term of endearment is a common phrase heard in Singapore, mostly used with express fondness when spoken to another. At Sayang’s online cake shop, this affection persists, with the owners sharing their wish to cultivate a more ethical and sustainable society through lovingly baked vegan cakes.

In alignment with their values, all cakes are vegan and halal-friendly, and made only using fair trade cocoa, coffee and sugar. If ethical eating is important to you, some staple must-haves include their incredibly lavish vegan rendition of Dark Chocolate Cake and the delightfully extravagant Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Cake.

SMOOCHT

For vegans who wanted to get ice-cream before the arrival of Kind Kones, it would likely have been at one of Singapore’s oldest vegan ice-cream brands, Brownice. Rebranded as Smoocht, the store serves ice-cream made from organic crystal brown rice and organic evaporated sugar cane juice.

With an assortment of 18 different vegan-friendly flavours, patrons can expect everything from harder to find chocolate and buttery choices like PB n’ Choc, to a rainbow of honeyed fruity options like Sunny Strawberry Fields. Want an even more deluxe alternative? Why not get an entire ice-cream cake instead!

8 Sin Ming Road
Sin Ming Centre, #01-03
Singapore 575628
Tel: +65 6456 6431
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Marymount
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

THE GOOD BOYS

Are you a fan of eye-catching, magnetically photogenic and enthrallingly colourful vegan food? Well, it’s time to head down to The Good Boys! Their nourishing bowls and smoothies are full of nutritious goodness to keep you returning for more, and the affable service will ensure that you are comfortable during your stay.

With thousands of superfood bowls served to date, it’s only a matter of time before you get enticed to try their vegan desserts. Given the multiple compliments from patrons about the generous portions and reasonable prices, this is one place that will likely prevail past the test of time.

1 Irving Place
The Commerze Building, #01-26
Singapore 369546
Tel: +65 8130 1083
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/livingcafesg/

THE LIVING CAFÉ

The Living Café has long been an inconspicuous presence catering to the health-conscious and vegan crowd in Bukit Timah. This café strives to combine healthy and delicious food with a high-energy lifestyle, proving that you do not need sinful excesses to achieve the latter.

On slow weekends, you can find scattered pockets of tables enjoying brunch and desserts within the bright and spacious interior. If you are somehow not satisfied with TLC’s almost vegan-exclusive list of sweets – featuring an assortment of cakes and dessert bowls – try this: head over to their dessert fridge to find more!

779 Bukit Timah Road
Singapore 269758
Tel: +65 6468 4482
Mon & Tue: 10am – 7pm
Wed to Fri: 10am – 8pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Sixth Avenue

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/UglyCakeShop/

UGLY CAKE SHOP

By hoping to make the world a prettier place with Ugly Cakes – a percentage of profits is used to fund undernourished youths in Timor-Leste – the owners are trying to convert cake lovers past the superficial, one cake at a time.

Even though most of the cakes contain dairy, UCG has a specific section catering to vegans. The two mainstays on its menu are the Zainasaurus Chocolate Cake and Vegan Cupcakes – cocoa topped bittersweet chocolate ganache – but if you have a different flavour in mind, they offer customisable vegan options that defy the usual standards of food beauty through their simple and rustic charms.

535 Kallang Bahru
GB Point, #01-06
Singapore 339351
Tel: +65 8228 8300
Mon to Sat: 10am – 7pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Geylang Bahru

WELL-DRESSED SALAD BAR & CAFÉ

Good news to all fellow vegans – Well Dressed Salad Bar and Café is reported to be fully vegan as of Oct 2019! Managed by the Eight Treasures Vegetarian Group, the chefs are an experienced bunch with a fervent passion for doling out flavourful and healthy bites.

This vegan lifestyle café boasts a cosy relaxed atmosphere with free Wi-Fi; settling amidst the pastoral backdrop, you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee alongside slices of beautifully baked cakes or crispy plates of waffles for an insouciant reprieve from your daily schedule.

282 South Bridge Road
Singapore 058831
Tel: +65 6534 7787
Daily: 12pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@Yowanling

YES NATURAL

A rare hidden gem in the Geylang district, Yes Natural provides vegan and vegetarian-friendly bakes for the surrounding residents. With a focus on environmental advocacy, the brand actively tries to reduce its carbon footprint by avoiding animal products whenever possible.

Be it cakes or pastries, the bakery concept of Yes Natural will be happy to serve you a passionately crafted vegan iteration at wallet-friendly prices. Some of our vegan favourites include traditional sweet Chinese confectionaries and buns, fluffy bread and muffins, and a selected counter of the day’s cake flavours.

55-57 Lor 27 Geylang
Singapore 388184
Tel: +65 6547 8438
Mon to Sun: 9am to 9.30pm (Bakery)
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 9.30pm (Restaurant)
Nearest MRT: Aljunied
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

25GRAMS

A bakery with anything but a lukewarm reception, 25 Grams is a quirky mix of fun and craftsmanship with a predilection for quality. Since its inception, health-conscious fans of baked goods have flocked to this lovely bakery for its bespoke cakes and inspired desserts.

If you are concerned that the lack of eggs used will render the vegan desserts too dry and crumbly, thankfully, the chefs’ recipes have hit just the right balance. Be it cakes, cupcakes or cookies, you can expect a moist, palatable treat. A must-try of ours is the Vegan Turkish Delish with its kaleidoscope of summer-hued toppings.

12 Kallang Avenue
The Aperia, #01-14
Singapore 339511
Tel: +65 9236 0448
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 7.30pm
Sat: By Appointment (Cake Collection Only)
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Lavender
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

When living in a food cosmopolis like Singapore, finding a meal is no difficult feat. With a plethora of affordable food options at every turn, coupled with hectic lifestyles, eating out becomes a convenient (and often desirable) alternative. However, this convenience comes at a price.

All too often, temptingly sinful options abound, and even if you wish to eat healthier, it can be quite difficult to identify the “healthier” options from the myriad of choices in our food paradise. The result? An increased risk of health problems courtesy of a high-calorie diet and over-eating. A plate or two of char kway teow may not seem like much now, but multiply that over the years and the results won’t be as innocuous.

Thankfully for us, even if we continue to eat out, there is a way to discern which dishes are worthy of a spot at your table. In hopes of promoting a healthier lifestyle for Singaporeans, the Health Promotion Board (HPB) has been expanding its Healthier Dining Programme (HDP) to make healthier food alternatives more widespread and accessible.

If you think this is going to be another spiel about eating your greens and avoiding all indulgences, think again. Instead, consider this: what if we told you that you could have equally healthier food without compromising on taste?

Regardless of your taste preferences, with your favourite brands now offering delectable dishes, each at 500 calories or less – yes, you can enjoy laksa within this range too! – healthier options are becoming increasingly easy to get your hands on! A familiar sight for most, just keep an eye out for Healthier Dining Programme identifiers when you’re next perusing your food options. This way, not only are you treating your body (and taste buds) right, you are also retaking the reins of meal planning without giving up the convenience of dining out. A win-win solution!

Photo credit: Jack’s Place

JACK’S PLACE

Since 1966, homegrown brand, Jack’s Place has been plating up hearty Western fare centred around its core offerings of steaks. Expanding its menu beyond beef cuts, the brand has been pivoting to a healthier angle over the recent years, and has included an assortment of HPB-endorsed healthier dishes in its menu.

There is more to Jack’s Place than just its steaks. Just as appetising an option, salmon steaks have enough heftiness to allow for an equally satisfying mouthfeel. What is more, salmon is lower in calories and saturated fat content, and can improve your heart health with its intrinsic omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well.

In addition, courtesy of the kitchen’s team expertise on the grill, their meticulous heat control mean that Jack’s Place Grilled Salmon Steaks are served with wonderfully seared exteriors complemented with juicy and tender cores.

50 Jurong Gateway Road
JEM, #04-15
Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 6734 8812
Daily: 11am – 10.30pm
Website: www.jacksplace.com.sg
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

MCDONALD’S

Can fast food really be made healthier? As counterintuitive as it may seem, McDonald’s has done just that. Together with HPB’s Healthier Dining Programme, McDonald’s has refined its menu to offer numerous healthier dining options to consumers in Singapore which are healthier, yet still as tasty.

What this means for you as a consumer is that you can now order an entire set meal at McDonald’s that is endorsed as a healthier dining option! For those looking for a fuss-free yet nourishing breakfast, consider going for the Egg McMuffn Meal. Easy on your palate and stomach yet teeming with protein, this wholegrain-based breakfast sandwich contains egg and chicken ham held together with a savoury, melted layer of cheese for a hearty morning pick-me-up.

That’s not all – complete your meal with a warm serving of fresh corn and a steaming hot cup of your preferred source of caffeine. A wholesome meal that fulfils all necessary food groups, who would have thought that a McDonald’s meal could be a healthier option than many traditional breakfast alternatives!

107 North Bridge Road
Funan, #01-16/17/21
Singapore 179105
Tel: +65 6952 0352
Sun to Thu: 7am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 7am – 12am
Website: www.mcdonalds.com.sg
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo credit: Penang Culture

PENANG CULTURE

Penang food tends to conjure up images of rich street food with intense bursts of flavours – items far removed from the minds of the health-conscious. Looking to bring about a confluence between the healthy crowd and authentic Penang street food, the culinary team has refined their recipes to reduce calories in their popular crowd favourites, highlighting that satisfying street food cravings need not be divergent from a healthier diet.

Delightfully tart, the Penang Assam Laksa is a mouth-wateringly fragrant number that sets our palates alight with its complex taste. Unlike the more common (and high-calorie) iteration with a broth built on coconut milk, the exciting flavours from the assam variant are instead obtained through prolonged simmering of a curated blend of spices and herbs.

With a rich broth made from sardines, ginger flowers, tamarind and fragrant herbs, the Penang Assam Laksa is a healthier and colourful dish that will placate any yearning for the vibrant flavours of Penang street food. And all that without sacrificing the kick of a hot steaming bowl of Nyonya laksa, while being lower in calories.

NEX, #B1-76
Changi Airport T2, Level 3
Compass One, #03-13
JEM, #04-27
VivoCity, #B2-23E
Website: www.gdgroup.com.sg/locations#penang-culture-locations
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo credit: Pizza Hut

PIZZA HUT

Another surprising inclusion for many, feasting on Italian food need not mean putting your day’s calorie intake at peril. When you’re next at Pizza Hut, look past the array of pizzas and you will be met with a titillating collection of Italian mains with multiple healthier options that are no less rich in flavours.

Capitalising on the expertise of its kitchen team, Pizza Hut concocted an HPB-approved healthier pasta dish with fresh and lively flavours at a more conservative calorie count. Instead of subsisting on a surplus of sauce to create a semblance of dimension, the chefs instead rely on natural ingredients to enliven the dish.

The fresh garlic and chilli padi make up the base of the dish’s taste profile, imparting a savoury base that is overlaid with an undertone of spicy zest. Containing less fat and more protein, the dish is flourished with succulent prawns for a light and refreshing finish. Now you can treat your taste buds to the flavours of Italy while maintaining a healthier lifestyle!

4 Tampines Central 5
Tampines Mall, #02-02
Singapore 529510
Tel: +65 6781 3413
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Website: www.pizzahut.com.sg
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

SAYBONS

Looking for affordable, tasty French food without subjecting yourself to exorbitant prices and the stuffiness of up-market establishments? Headed by Le Cordon Bleu-trained executive chef, Daphane Loke, Saybons seeks to subvert the intimidation and luxury factor typically associated with the cuisine by providing affordable, authentic French fare to all.

A staple in French cuisine, bisque is a luscious number normally served as an entrée, where its opulent flavours whet the appetites of the hungry in preparation for the rest of the meal. Typically, cream is added to the broth to produce its characteristic smooth thickness; unfortunately, this adds calories to the dish and makes it a heavy meal option.

Circumventing the calorie inflation from the use of cream, Saybons’ version adopts a mixture of stock and fresh tomato puree to bestow a similar texture to the bisque. Using only natural ingredients with no preservatives, the distinct notes of prawns induce an intense aroma of seafood with every mouthful. All in all, Saybons’ Seafood Bisque Soup is a sumptuous affair without the downside of being calorie-laden – it truly is a dish that offers the best of both worlds!

9 Bishan Place
Junction 8, #02-43
Singapore 579837
Tel: +65 6258 3138
Mon to Fri: 9.30am – 9.30pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 9.30pm
Website: www.saybons.com
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo credit: Swensen’s

SWENSEN’S

More than just an ice-cream parlour, Swensen’s has become a household name for all Singaporeans as a family restaurant that caters to everyone. Bolstering its restaurant offerings over the years, the chain now includes over twenty full-service restaurants that provide American-styled diner fare evocative of retro nostalgia.

As part of the HDP initiative together with HPB, one of Swensen’s healthier culinary inventions is the BBQ Chicken. By choosing a protein that is congruent with American fare and yet familiar to the local palate, Swensen’s has updated its menu with healthier options without losing its signature old-school American charm.

The BBQ Chicken dish is a tender and juicy number, with the chicken brushed with an in-house guava BBQ sauce that gives a sweet yet tangy taste that is popular on the island of Hawaii. For those wanting more fibre, vitamins and minerals, why not order an extra helping of seasonal greens? Not only do their crispness provide textural contrast, their garden freshness cleanses your palate as well.

200 Victoria Street
Bugis Junction, #01-68
Singapore 188024
Tel: +65 6255 2052
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 10.30pm
Website: www.swensens.com.sg
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

The next time you plan on eating out, keep an eye out for HPB’s Healthier Dining Programme (HDP) identifiers when perusing food options. With over 2,400 HDP partners across 9,000 locations in Singapore, you will be amazed by the sheer variety of healthier food choices at your fingertips. Gone are the days of picking health over taste – take control of your diets today by choosing food that is both good in taste and better for your health. Tasty food can be healthier too!

For a list of F&B outlets dishing out healthier options, check out the Healthier Dining Programme website at www.hpb.gov.sg/hdp.

This post was brought to you by Health Promotion Board Singapore.

Never one to rest on their laurels, KFC Singapore is back with yet another new, inventive dish to usher in the festivities this Lunar New Year! Let this year of the rat help you sniff out even more delectable delights by spicing things up (literally) with KFC’s latest Lunar New Year creation, Nyonya Fried Chicken.

If there’s one thing any self-respecting F&B establishment in Singapore knows, is that Singaporeans love their spices. KFC surely recognises this, keeping our taste buds yearning after previous seasonal favourites such as the Red Hot Szechuan Chicken and Curry Crunch Chicken.

The common ingredient in these best-sellers? They all provide an addictive and irresistible spice infusion that renders their already finger lickin’ chicken even more finger lickin’ good. With KFC’s track record, this new addition is sure to give your tongues a hot, new thing to salivate over!

KFC’s latest release this season continues along the tangent of being a high-quality and attention-grabbing number. Burnished in a lively auburn shade, it cuts a striking profile against the golden hues of its usual menu counterparts. Accompanying the vibrant sight is a familiar whiff of fried chicken, but with a feisty peppery undertone that really gets your mouth watering.

Taking a bite out of the chicken unveils a piquant medley of spices – a curated blend of chillies, dried shrimps, curry spices and laksa leaves with a dash of coconut to introduce a sweet, smooth flourish – that persists after your initial tasting. Even past the chicken’s craggy crust, the flavours endure in the juicy centre, thus allowing the fragrance from the spices and herbs to fully permeate each mouthful.

The secret to the Nyonya Chicken’s intense flavour is courtesy of its preperation technique. The chicken chunks are first marinated before being fried; therefore, even after crunching past the crisp layer, you are still met with a potpurri of flavours courtesy of the marinade’s infusion. It is then coated with the spicy Nyonya sauce to impart each piece with its signature zesty bite for the ultimate satisfying taste affair.

The secret to keeping such an intense and uniform taste is courtesy of the dual infusion of spices. The chicken chunks are first marinated in the aforementioned sauce, allowing the potpourri to infuse the protein until these flavours become innate to the base’s taste profile. The batter is then suffused with the same spicy sauce, imparting it with its signature felicitous colouration and a zesty bite that makes crunching into the skin just as satisfying an affair.

We’ve enjoyed multiple spicy-themed specials before. What then makes the Nyonya Chicken different? With the Nyonya Chicken, we are served a confluence of local flavours tied together with a tinge of spice. More than just another tasty menu addition, the kernel of the dish is no longer the spiciness; while a (very nice) bonus, the essence of the dish resides in the celebration of local Peranakan flavours.

Interested in getting your hands on KFC’s Nyonya Chicken? It is available in-house and via takeaway at S$3.60 for a piece, and S$8.95 and up for meal options.

Need something to alleviate the spice and heartiness of your Nyonya Chicken meal? Refresh your taste buds with SJORA®’s latest flavour, Strawberry Kiwi!

While the chicken is a rich collective of spicy flavours, this drink quenches with its refreshing sweetness. Alluring in pink, the Strawberry Kiwi washes away the chicken’s heavy spices, leaving behind a nectarous lingering aftertaste that tastes like a breath of spring.

To make this Lunar New Year season even more auspicious, treating yourself to any Nyonya Chicken Meal can also reward you with a chance to grab a gift from KFC’s enormous S$388,000 prize pool!

From 2 January to 2 February 2020, a winner will get to take home S$3,888 every week, while three very lucky diners will walk away with the grand prize of S$8,888 from the Grand Lucky Draw. On top of that, you can participate in KFC’s sure-win Ang Bao Rush game for additional chances to nab instant rewards or even the weekly S$388 cash prize.

For a chance at getting your hands on the prizes, simply order any Nyonya Chicken Meal at participating outlets or via delivery. Eligible offers will receive unique code(s) – each code entails one Grand Lucky Draw chance and one try at the Ang Bao Rush Game. Remember to hold on to your original scratch cards and emails even after playing for verification purposes! Don’t want to miss out on your good fortune now, do you?

This Lunar New Year, if you find yourself craving some deep-fried deliciousness, why not pop by KFC for a scrumptious, fuss-free meal? Grab this limited run special while you still can; with flavours as potent, spice as gratifying, and crunch as compelling as the Nyonya Fried Chicken’s, we wouldn’t miss out on this opportunity either!

KFC Nyonya Chicken is available at all KFC restaurants except KFC KidZania and Singapore Zoo.

107 North Bridge Road
Funan Mall, #01-19
Singapore 179105
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest MRT: City Hall
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

This post was brought to you by KFC Singapore.

Central Bukit Timah is an unlikely candidate where one expects to find a regional mall at. Enduring in spite of the rapid urbanisation of its surroundings, the longevity of the mall can be attributed to the convenience it brings, especially through its variety of food options.

Even with a wavering cast of F&B brands across the years, there are a few that have defied pressure from competitors and managed to win over the approval of the notoriously discerning neighbourhood crowd. From local favourites to authentic Korean fare, these eateries are committed to serving delicious yet affordable meals.

Whether they are new additions eager to prove their prowess or time-worn eateries that are long entrenched in the residents’ collective memories, here is a list of 8 places worthy of a visit in Bukit Timah Plaza.

Photo Credit: www.facebook.com/Thefringecafe

FRINGE CAFÉ

Tucked within Attitude Performing Arts Studio, Fringe Café has evolved into a space where not only the dancers and their families congregate post-class – the first modern café in Bukit Timah Plaza for multiple years, it continues to serve the needs of the neighbourhood’s wanting café crowd.

Customers can perch on the bright and vibrant designer furniture and partake in the café’s offerings of western mains, fresh brews and a selection of homemade cakes.

Start off by unwinding with the café’s signature Kuppa Coffee – a gourmet Australian blend of hand-prepared beans – from S$5.00, before perusing through their mains – try their freshly toasted sandwiches!  –  and ending with a slice of cake – the Black Forest Cherry Cake (S$5.90) has been a long-time favourite of students – for a comprehensive dining experience.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #01-29
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 6467 5307
Daily: 8.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World

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Photo Credit: www.burrple.com/@j_nnifer

LIU SAN

Another long-time member of Bukit Timah Plaza’s F&B entourage, Liu San is founded by a Taiwanese student who wished to share the flavours of his home with Singaporeans. True to his word, the eatery has been offering comforting and hearty Taiwanese Food to the population for over a decade.

A choice option by the tuition crowd for the affordable fare, you can find pockets of families looking to rejuvenate their spirits over steaming dishes of aromatic Taiwanese staples.

For those in the vicinity, some must-try dishes include a scrumptious rendition of Lu Rou Fan (S$7.00), the rich and savoury Oyster Mee Sua (S$7.00), a warm nourishing bowl of Taiwanese Beef Noodle (S$7.80) and a plate of six easy-to-pop Pan-Fried Dumplings (S$6.00).

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #01-09
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 6463 1833
Daily: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World

MING JIA (MYUNG GA) KOREAN FOOD

Since its inception, residents of the neighbourhood have been flocking to Ming Jia courtesy of its authentic Korean fare. Diners can expect to be temporarily transported to similar family-styled eateries in South Korea – you will be feasting on actual Korean-sized portions while surrounded by spirited Korean conversations courtesy of the predominantly Korean crowd.

Run by a Korean family, the matron of the house commands the kitchen with an iron ladle, only satisfied when her chefs are able to recreate the dishes of her hometown to her exacting standards.

Common dishes seen around the crowded tables include gigantic sharing portions of Seafood Leek Pancake (S$18++), piping hot plates of BBQ meat (starting from S$13), and the occasional vividly red-tinged Kimchi Tofu Stew (S$13.90++) on colder days.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-07/55
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 6469 5123
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 9pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Beauty World

Photo Credit: www.hungrygowhere.com/user/jenifer-tan/bb560b00

NONYA DELICATESSEN

Nonya Delicatessen is a family-owned café dedicated to plating up heartfelt nonya food since 1980. Now run by the matriarch’s eldest son and his wife, they continue to preserve the brand’s authenticity by using the same traditional methods and techniques to ensure the food retains the flavours regulars so adore.

Especially popular with the area’s working population, arrive early to avoid the disappointment of your beloved dishes selling out. Perennial favourites include the brilliant coloured and richly flavoured Nonya Laksa (S$6.50), and the incredibly fragrant and hearty Nasi Kunyit (S$8.80).

If you are still a tad peckish after, their nonya desserts are excellent as well: their kuehs (S$5.50) tend to fly off the shelves by lunchtime, and their Chendol (S$4.40) and Chendol Agar Agar (S$5.50) are the childhood favourites of many.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-K69
Singapore 588996
Mon & Thu: 12pm – 7pm
Tue, Wed, Fri to Sun: 11.30am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World

RISE & GRIND COFFEE CO.

For most of us, a strong cup of coffee alongside a robust breakfast is what we need to get through the day’s activities. Built upon that very concept, Rise & Grind Coffee Co. brings together good food and good coffee to all in need of a pick-me-up.

Patrons looking for a quick bite can browse through the host of traditional Australian brunch fare offered, some of which feature a hint of local and regional flair.

For a lighter snack, go for the cheese-laden zesty Macho Nachos (S$10++) or the Sweet Potato Fries (S$10++) with mentaiko mayo and seaweed nori for welcomed departures from the usual variants.

If you want something more substantial, try The Gold Standard Burger (S$18++) for a gratifying taste experience or indulge in the sweet-savoury piquant flavours of the Chilli Crab Linguine (S$16++).

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #L1-CA1
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 9154 8550
Mon, Wed to Fri: 10am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 6pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Beauty World
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

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Photo Credit: www.facebook.com/grumpybearsg

THE GRUMPY BEAR

While café food can be a hit or miss affair, mediocre food is something patrons of The Grumpy Bear need not worry about – the chefs ensure that every plate sent out is befitting of creating delicious memories with friends and family over.

Helmed by executive chef, Richard Low, expect not wild innovations but the familiar flavours of classic modern-casual European cuisine done with the regional twist.

Within its extensive menu, customers can keep an eye out for the brand’s signature Classic Beefy Bolognese (S$13.90++) – a luscious meaty affair with a side of al dente pasta – and their Breaded Chicken (S$15.90) – a crispy-juicy contrast done on a generously-sized chicken thigh – to supplement their meals with.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #02-01B
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 8642 0108
Tue to Sun: 11am – 9pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Beauty World
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://sg.openrice.com/restaurant/userinfo.htm?userId=1707268

ZHEN WANG FAMILY RESTAURANT

For those lamenting how Bukit Timah Plaza does not have food court, there is one; it is just unfortunately not in the most visible location. Despite its limited offerings, the collective of stalls still attracts a considerable crowd.

Part of this can be attributed to the more affordable price point. But what keeps many returning is the extended cultivation of fondness for the flavours served by the multi-decades stalls present.

The two most notable stalls are also the longest standing ones The first is a local delights cum yong tau foo stall that offers a huge menu. This multitude of items includes its signature Yong Tau Foo (S$3.90 for 6 pieces) and local favourites like the savoury-sweet goodness of Fried Carrot Cake (S$2.50).

Its counterpart is the equally long-established Duck Rice stall. Despite rising costs, the owner continues to serve quality duck rice at the incredibly economical price of S$3 (S$0.50 for an extra egg). For a more nutritious alternative, their Duck Noodles (Soup) is a soothing herbal option perfect for a warm day.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-47
Singapore 588996
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World

Photo Credit: www.facebook.com/zzangkoreanfood/

ZZANG KOREAN FOOD

If dining at Ming Jia is too slow and clunky an affair, head over to Zzang Korean Food instead. Located in the sparse upper floors, the broad variety of fairly-priced Korean food and the fast-casual setting makes it a prime spot for students looking for a quick meal.

For those ambivalent due to the sheer number of items available, why not start with some wholesome stew? Served in stone pots to retain warmth for an optimal taste experience, these pots are fantastic options for those looking for a hot meal to energise them for the day.

The invigorating warmth of the classic Tofu Soup (S$9.50++) makes it a choice pick of many customers, while the flavourful Stone Pot Rice or Noodles (from S$5.00++) are great self-contained meals for individuals.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #02-K46
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 6635 6077
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World

Crab lovers, it’s time to shell-abrate! Imagine this: juicy, meaty crabs slathered in luscious, rich sauce, sizable claws glistening in the light! If that sounds like a glorious meal, consider this alternative: replace that fun-sized mud crab – however big you’re envisioning it, this is gonna be a lot bigger – with the literal king of crustaceans, the Alaskan Red King Crab.

Crab-tivated? We are too. To usher in 2020, No Signboard Seafood at Esplanade is looking to make waves with an exciting menu revamp and a brand new look.  Renowned for its extravagant array of crab dishes, this overhaul is set to elevate things to the next level of opulence.

Settling for no less than the best, No Signboard  Seafood is featuring the enormous Alaskan Red King Crab in its signature dishes. Thought we were chitin’ you with the aforementioned scenario? At No Signboard Seafood, that dream is now a reality.

Gigantic Alaskan king crabs aren’t the only things to look forward to. Tired of the same ol’ crusty Chinese dishes? Starting with its Esplanade branch, No Signboard Seafood’s new menu supplements its core Chinese fare with Japanese and Western influences.

You’ll get all the belly-warming comfort of traditional Chinese cuisine, but with a twist – the inclusion of borrowed elements, all drawn together with superlative skill, brings about a stimulating culinary adventure unlike any other.

Outstanding seafood, excellent dishes, and distinguished service – the only component left is an equally splendid setting to complete the experience. Thankfully, No Signboard Seafood’s Esplanade outlet with its sprawling champagne-hued interior and an equally gorgeous al fresco option fulfils that option.

Located by the tranquil waterfront and in proximity to landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands, it is the perfect spot to find a reprieve at after a day’s activities in the vicinity.

SALTED EGG ALASKAN CRAB

You’ve had your share of the acclaimed chilli crab, you’ve tried No Signboard Seafood’s signature white pepper crab, but have you tried the brand’s latest gourmet concoction: salted egg crab?

The Alaskan Red King Crab is a decadent number on its own, made even more indulgent when awash in a sea of luscious, creamy, gold. Prepared à la minute, the crustacean is cooked into a vibrant red, its hefty armoured shell housing an equally ample amount of succulent flesh awaiting a ravenous diner’s attention.

Magnificent and imposing in its lustre, the flesh of the Alaskan Red King Crab is sweet against the piquant savoury bursts of the sauce. Even when doused in the liquid gold, the suppleness of the crab’s flesh holds its own against the substantial body of the sauce – its lighter sweetness easing the predominant salted egg flavours, allowing extended consumption without the onset of any cloying saturation.

For those unable to get enough of this rich and ambrosial sauce, ladle a generous amount – don’t forget to spoon in crumbs of crispy fried quinoa for added texture – onto your rice for an even more sumptuous taste sensation.

JAPANESE UNI WITH OBA LEAF TEMPURA

Alluringly creamy and gilded in gold, uni, or sea urchin, is the stuff of every gourmand’s dream. Sweet yet savoury, mild yet bold, the duality intrinsic to this delicacy allows it to hold the spotlight in all dishes it features in – eaten raw on its own or paired with condiments, this delicate ingredient lingers not just in taste, but persists in the memory of your palate long after as well.

While uni holds complex flavours on its own, the skilled chefs at No Signboard Seafood elevate its taste profile by pairing the protein with a herb commonly used to garnish sashimi: oba, or shiso, leaf. By coating the leaf in a gossamer tempura batter, it becomes more than a condiment, transforming into the base upon which the uni’s flavour is augmented.

The result is a contrast between the smoothness of the protein against the brittle crisp of the oba leaf tempura, while maintaining the distinct flavour of the uni against the subtle fragrance of the leaf.

SIGNATURE CRISPY CEREAL PRAWN

A staple in many Chinese restaurants, cereal prawns are a sinful favourite of many Singaporeans with its lively flavours and addictive crunch. Adore this dish but lament how you’re usually resigned to munching on cereal over actual prawns? At No Signboard Seafood, you can expect not the pedestrian breeds, but nothing less than the most generously sized prawns for your enjoyment.

Deep-fried into a crispy brown, the shells of the prawns flake under gentle persuasion, revealing a succulent, sweet centre prime for dunking into the heap of sandy gold crumbs.

Equally flavourful, the cereal base is tossed with slivers of curry leaves and diced chilli padi until the mixture is imbued with a bite of aromatic spice. Spoon it onto your rice – a copious amount is just right – or eat it on its own – a nibble or two between courses – utterly scrumptious, the cereal here deserves just as much of a spotlight as the prawns that rest atop it.

PAN-SEARED AMADAI FILLET

Drawing inspiration from Japan, No Signboard Seafood has elected to feature the amadai – translated as sweet sea bream – or tilefish, in its menu update. In line with its moniker, this fish is slightly sweet, making it a refreshing option fantastic for Singapore’s eternal summers.

A curious breed, the amadai literally stands out with its spiny hide. Made not from bones but are instead intact scales, these protrusions become edible with the introduction of heat. When the fillet is pan-fried, these scales are pulled taut from its skin, leaving behind a wispy layer of crisp scales that naturally complements the amadai’s soft flesh. As such, don’t avoid the skin when sampling this dish; a forkful of both the crush and flesh with a dash of gravy is the best way to appreciate the inherent complexity of this entrée.

BAKED JAPANESE BABY EGGPLANT WITH GRUYERE CHEESE & BACON BITS

Unassuming at first glance, the simplicity of this dish belies a full-bodied richness unexpected of an eggplant-centric dish. Traditionally undistinctive in taste, this dish substitutes the larger eggplants for this Japanese baby variant, capitalising on its innate sweetness to create a flavour base upon which the other ingredients can build upon.

To supplement the fruit, a thick, generous layer of gruyere cheese is added. Luxuriantly creamy, the cheese permeates the eggplant during the baking process, imparting a potent salty and nutty profile in its wake. It is then served with a heavy dusting of bacon bits to intersperse the soft, spongy consistency with an added savoury bite. Who says vegetable dishes have to be boring and bland?

GLAZED AUSTRALIA TOMATO STUFFED WITH CRISPY MUSHROOM SALAD

Vivid red against the muted colours of spring, these glossy baubles are an exuberant and colourful number wonderful as a standalone inspired vegetable supplement, or as a more unique palate cleanser.

More than an aesthetically pleasing garden salad, these bulbous spheres are the product of a meticulously designed exercise in converging distinct flavour and textural opposites. Upon initial tasting, you’ll be met with a juicy, soft husk filled with a dewy sweet-tartness courtesy of the glazed tomato. After which, the bite unveils a core of airy crispness filled with a savoury mushroom salad fried to an addictive crunchiness.

SIGNATURE FRESH MANGO COMPOTE WIITH COCONUT SAGO & POMELO

Conclude your culinary adventure with a refreshing fruity dish to alleviate the abundant flavours of your seafood mains. Unlike puddings, whereby the taste profile of the mango is watered down into the custard base, compotes provide a similarly saccharine treat in a more intense form through distilling the fruit down to its essence.

Start off by sampling the syrup on its own; made with only the freshest mangoes, it is a honeyed treat that’s simultaneously easy on the palate without compromising on flavour. Gradually add in the pools of coconut sago into the compote before finishing with a gentle sprinkle of pomelo shavings – the infusion of milky coconut sago smoothens the compote further, while the pomelo interrupts the uniformity of the liquid by providing occasional bursts of bitter-sweetness.

The next time you’re in a pinch when finding a place to dine at, No Signboard Seafood with its assortment of first-grade Alaskan King Crab dishes alongside an unparalleled selection of fusions dishes is certain to make an impression.

Whether you are looking for a more luxurious yet comfortable place to hold a gathering with friends at, or a place with a pleasant ambience with exceptional seafood to bring your family to, as long as the table is partial to seafood, No Signboard Seafood is certain to make your dining experience a delectable and memorable one.

No Signboard Seafood
8 Raffles Avenue
The Esplanade Mall, #01-14/16
Singapore 039802
Tel: +65 6336 9959
Mon to Fri: 11am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

This post was brought to you by No Signboard Seafood.

Regale your loved ones and esteemed clients this Lunar New Year with a hamper unlike any other. Instead of sending over a towering basket mostly filled with unremarkable nonessentials, why not gift them a collection of thoughtfully curated items they’re bound to appreciate instead?

Pretty in pink and strikingly chic, have you ever seen such a stylish hamper in a tote bag? The Grandeur Collection from The Marmalade Pantry—which comes with goodies made in a halal-certified ktchen—is a unique gift perfect for the modern Singaporean.

Our readers can enjoy 15% off when you pay with Mastercard using our code “LICCNY15”. The discount is valid from now until 12 Jan 2020. Get the Lunar New Year hamper from The Marmalade Pantry’s e-shop here—http://bit.ly/TMPCNY2020.

PINEAPPLE TARTS (330g/16pcs)

Delicately crafted, each spherical tart hides within its golden crust a brimming core of pineapple jam. Holding a splendid balance of flavours, each bite brings about a lingering sweetness; one that is rich enough to excite the palate yet light enough to keep the flavour from saturating.

SAMBAL SHRIMP ROLLS (300g)

Welcomed for its textural and taste contrast against the other two treats, these crispy rolls are a wonderful addition to any Lunar New Year snack table. Past the initial crunch, these rolls break apart to reveal a fine, savoury stuffing of fried shrimps and chilli. Suitable for the spice-shy as well, the inherent spice is moderated by a dash of sweetness.

CASHEW NUTS COOKIES (380g)

Crumbly with an intense nutty profile, these buttery treats are a delight to pop, and pair even better with a cup of tea. Satisfying addictive in its duality, the bite from the roasted cashew allays the monotony of its soft base, and invites an additional dimension of saltiness against the predominantly sweet and nutty profile.

EMERI PINK MOSCATO (LIMITED EDITION PACKAGING BY DE BORTOLI)

A lush, fruity alcoholic number, this sparkling rosé wine is a fantastic accompaniment to your Lunar New Year celebrations. Captivating in its pale pink hue, the Moscata offers an equally refreshing and uplifting flavour profile. Expect each glass to be perfumed with vibrant notes of strawberries and musk.

GOLD MOSCATO TEA LEAVES BY GRYPHON (30g)

Sought after for its rarity, the leaves produce a medium-bodied bright copper brew speckled with gold dust. Complex in flavour and incredibly fragrant, this white tea is infused with a gentle floral note, within which the ripened muscat grapes add a bitter-sweet aromatic intensity to. A truly opulent taste experience.

PRESERVED DECORATIVE FLOWERS IN MINIATURE VASE (ONLY FOR THE FIRST 200 SETS)

Awash in the colours of spring, these flowers are a lively addition to any space. Preserved for longevity, place this vase within easy view for a beautiful centrepiece that brightens up not just the room, but the moods of those residing in it as well.

The flowers are in collaboration with FEO Grace – the social enterprise arm of Far East Organization.

SEASONAL EDITION CANVAS TOTE BAG BY THE MARMALADE PANTRY

PU-leather lined and finished with a graceful flourish, this bag can easily transform into a one suitable for daily use. Roomy, sturdy, and stylish, this ivory tote will ensure that you remain effortlessly in vogue in all seasons

Our readers can enjoy 15% off when you pay with Mastercard using our code “LICCNY15”. The discount is valid from now until 12 Jan 2020. Get the Lunar New Year hamper from The Marmalade Pantry’s e-shop here—http://bit.ly/TMPCNY2020.

Available from 8 January to 24 January 2020, you can purchase The Grandeur Collection at S$168+. For those wishing to procure the delectable treats on their own, look towards the Traditional Trio (S$60+) for a more streamlined offering instead.

You can choose to self-collect at any The Marmalade Pantry outlets or opt for delivery (S$20/location for standard, S$40 for express) during this period.

If you’re looking for a special way to show your appreciation, love or respect this Lunar New Year, The Marmalade Pantry’s contemporary spin on the classic hamper is a refreshing alternative that is certain to be a memorable gift.

The Grandeur Collection – S$168+
Pineapple Tarts (330g / 16pcs) – (S$22+)
Sambal Shrimp Rolls (300g) – (S$19+)
Cashew Nuts Cookies (380g) – (S$19+)
Emeri Pink Moscato (Limited Edition Packaging by De BORTOLI) ~ Australia region (750ml/ 8% alc) – (S$68+)
Gold Moscato Tea Leaves by GRYPHON (30g)
Preserved decorative flowers in miniature vase
Seasonal edition Canvas Tote Bag by The Marmalade Pantry – (S$38+)
Limited edition Red Packets by The Marmalade Pantry
Gift card by The Marmalade Pantry – (S$5+)

Traditional Trio – S$60+
Pineapple Tarts (330g / 16pcs) – (S$22+)
Sambal Shrimp Rolls (300g) – (S$19+)
Cashew Nuts Cookies (380g) – (S$19+)
Choice of Cup Cake voucher by The Marmalade Pantry
Limited edition Red Packets by The Marmalade Pantry
Gift bag with card by The Marmalade Pantry – (S$5+)

Outlets
The Marmalade Pantry ION Orchard
2 Orchard Turn
ION Orchard, #04-11a
Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 6734 2700
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

The Marmalade Pantry Novena
8 Sinran Drive
Oasia Hotel Novena, #01-02/04
Singapore 307470
Tel: +65 6664 0348
Daily: 6.30am – 10.30am, 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Novena

The Marmalade Pantry Downtown
100 Peck Seah Street
Oasia Hotel Downtown, #01-01
Singapore 079333
Tel: +65 6385 0741
Daily: 6.30am – 10.30am, 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

The Marmalade Pantry Petite
160 Robinson Road
SBF Centre, #01-02
Singapore 068914
Tel: +65 6581 0572
Mon to Fri: 9am – 6.30pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

This post was brought to you by The Marmalade Pantry.

It is no secret that food plays an intrinsic part in the lives of many Singaporeans. We are a nation built upon the love of food – be it planning for an elaborate celebratory meal, or looking for a quick bite, the plethora of choices has allowed the average citizen to develop a more discerning palate.

The crux of the issue for most of us lies in the importance we place in the taste of the food above all else. Would you rather indulge in some good ol’ char kway teow or have a bowl of salad? If you picked the former, you are not alone. It is this incessant struggle between tasty and healthy food that the Health Promotion Board (HPB) seeks to address with its latest initiative: The Healthy Bowl Campaign.

Over the following months, more than 30 selected F&B outlets in Singapore will be rolling out healthy wholegrain rice bowls in four appetising flavours: salmon, chicken, turkey, and vegetarian. It doesn’t matter if you are a fitness junkie, a working professional, or a self-proclaimed junk food connoisseur – as long as you are a fan of yummy and honest food, these healthy bowls are perfect for you!

Some of you may be curious as to why this initiative is centred around wholegrain rice. Much healthier than white rice, wholegrain options contain higher dietary fibre, iron, and zinc. Consuming a diet rich in wholegrains, such as brown rice, is beneficial to health as it may lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers. It can also help in weight management. With all these benefits, it is no wonder that an increasing number of Singaporeans are swapping over to this more nutritious variant!

Naturel brand wholegrain rice, in particular, is naturally cholesterol-free and gluten-free. One serving of rice (150g) provides 300 percent daily wholegrain requirement (source: Lam Soon Group). Wholegrain rice has lower GI compared to white rice too, meaning that these Healthy Bowls can help those with diabetes to control blood glucose level as well.

The following healthy wholegrain bowls are the result of a careful and thorough creation process by Chef Johnathan. The main takeaway of these bowls is simple: to create visually appealing food that is equally tantalising in taste, and made available to all at an affordable price. By cooking them simply, the hope is to familiarise locals with the natural flavours of quality ingredients.

Each bowl contains a satisfying serving of your protein of choice, a generous helping of garden-plucked vegetables in a variety of vivid hues, topped with a luscious sous vide-styled egg atop light and fragrant wholegrain rice. As the recipes have been pre-analysed by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) under the Healthier Dining Programme (HDP) guidelines, the bowls contain sufficient nutritional benefit while remaining less than 600 calories. With such salubrious options available at affordable prices, eating healthier has never been this easy!

Salmon

The reigning favourite according to customers surveyed, the Salmon Healthy Bowl is the ideal choice for many with its more intense flavour and textural contrast. Available in both cooked and raw forms, this wholegrain bowl evokes flavours reminiscent of its Scandinavian and Japanese counterparts.

For the latter, you can expect a light, refreshing, almost salad-like bowl that is an excellent meal option during hot and humid days. Conversely, the cooked alternative has a lush slab of salmon as its centrepiece, and is complemented by a drizzle of creamy miso sauce.

US Chicken

Featuring a cut of lean US-imported chicken, this recipe ensures that you are still able to savour the tenderness of the protein without incurring extra calories from fattier bits. If you are worried about your palate being unaccustomed to the taste profile of these bowls, try this bowl first: the specific vegetable and spice complements are selected as a loose homage to the local delicacy, chicken rice.

US Turkey

A leaner cut than chicken, turkey gets a bad reputation for being a bland and dry alternative. However, thanks to the recipe created by Chef Johnathan, the protein maintains a moist suppleness that pairs wonderfully with the crunch from the greens and bite of the wholegrain base. For those already on a clean eating lifestyle or have a more sensitive disposition, this is the pick for you!

Vegetarian

It is easy to dismiss vegetarian options as being uninspired secondary substitutes, but thanks to Chef Johnathan’s diligence, the result is a convergence of striking flavours that unequivocally rivals non-vegetarian alternatives. Each bite of the wholegrain rice with vegetables such as red cabbage, bell pepper and iceburg lettuce brings about a meticulously curated taste profile meant to reinvigorate you; as an added twist, a pinch of paprika is added for that extra spicy bite.

These Healthy Bowls are just the beginning of HPB’s efforts to encourage Singaporeans to adopt healthier lifestyles. In 2020, the Healthier Dining Programme will work with partners to explore additional pre-analysed recipes incorporating healthier ingredients such as wholegrain bread and noodles, and lower-sugar beverages and desserts. Together with the HPB’s Healthier Ingredient Development Scheme (HIDS) suppliers’ lower-sugar desserts by Woah! Protein and Udders Ice Cream, we already have access to healthier ice creams that are as delectable as their normal variants but with less calories!

Where to find these healthy and wholesome rice bowls in Singapore

1. Sunray Café – 1 outlet (www.sunray.sg)
Address: 79 Brighton Crescent, Singapore 559218

2. Caffe Pralet – 1 outlet (www.caffepralet.com.sg)
Address: 17 Eng Hoon St, #01-04 Eng Hoon Mansions, Singapore 169767

3. Deja Brew – 1 outlet (www.dejabrew.com.sg )
Address: 1 Straits Boulevard, #01-02 Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, Singapore 018906

4. Huggs Epigram @ URA (www.huggscoffee.com)
Address: 45 Maxwell Rd, #01-01 The URA Centre, Singapore 069118

5. Huggs @ OUE Downtown (www.huggscoffee.com)
Address: 6 Shenton Way, Level 30 OUE Downtown Two, Singapore 068809

Coming in 2020:

1. Asia Food Cafeteria – 7 outlets

2. Gim Tim – 1 outlet (www.gimtim.com.sg)
Address: Blk 157, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 4 #01-546 Singapore 560157

3. Imperial Court – 1 outlet
Address: 190 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8, #03-01 The Grassroots’ Club, Singapore 568046

4. Tim Delight – 1 outlet (www.timdelight.com)

5. Qian Xi Restaurant – 10 outlets (www.qianxi.com.sg/contact-us)

6. Kei Kaisendon – 5 outlets (www.keikaisendon.com/#findus)

7. Ahmad Power Nasi Ayam – 1 outlet
Address: Blk 285 Yishun Ave 6 #01-02, Singapore 760285

Where to find Woah! Protein Lower Sugar Ice Cream in Singapore

Outlets

Marina One, 5 Straits View #B2-17 (Marina One The Heart)

Raffles Place, 5 Raffles Place, #B1-19 (Raffles Place MRT Xchange)

Also available at

Supermarkets – Ecellente at Capitol Piazza, RedMan at Bedok Heartbeat

Online – WoahGroup, Redmart, Shopee & Qoo10

How to Participate in the Healthy Bowl Campaign for F&B Operators

Contact

Ambassador – Healthy Bowl Campaign
Tel: +65 6372 8825 | 8826 | 8827
WhatsApp: +65 8588 7808

Say goodbye to the days of monotonous meal planning. With each Healthy Bowl featuring a deliberate mix of protein, vegetables, and a wholegrain carb base, whether you are Team Salmon or Team Turkey, you will still get your daily nutritional intake for well within your daily calorie limit.

The next time you’re too busy or tired to cook, just on head down to any participating F&B outlet to grab a Healthy Bowl. It is a quick and fuss-free way to satiate your hunger, and better yet, you get a delicious meal while keeping to a healthy lifestyle; a definite win-win situation. Tasty food can be healthier too!

Check out the list of HPB’s Healthier Dining Programme Partners at www.hpb.gov.sg/hdp.

This post was brought to you by Health Promotion Board Singapore.

With 2019 drawing to a close, many of us are looking for a place to celebrate the end of another year. If you have yet to make plans for the year-end festivities, we’re here to help: why not bring your loved ones to Spice Brasserie at PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road for a captivating spread of Asian-inspired fare and traditional holiday staples?

Reopening just in time for the holidays, Spice Brasserie underwent a two-month-long revamp, and is now back to regale diners with a new gusto. More than just a superficial facelift, its refreshing new interior is inspired by the rich heritage of the Little India neighbourhood it resides in. Moreover, this update allows for a better coherence between the dining space and the Asian specialities offered.

Of all buffets, why Spice Brasserie? Taking pride in its heavily Asian-influenced spread, dining here means you get to enjoy the best culinary creations the East and West have to offer. You can find a sensational selection of meticulously prepared Asian street food, many of which are freshly prepared by chefs at various stations.

With a selection as magnificent as that, it’s time to bask in that festive cheer; end the year on a delicious note by bringing your loved ones down to Spice Brasserie for a memorable feasting experience!

Quote “Ladyironchef” upon making your reservation for 25% OFF Spice Brasserie’s buffet from now until 15 February 2020.

The Asian food that we have come to associate with Spice Brasserie continues to be the mainstay of its spread. Take your time to peruse the curated assortment of dishes from all across the region, of which some are specialities available on a rotational basis – with so many items on display, it can be easy to miss certain gems in your haste.

Start at the multiple chef-manned stations, each of which features a distinctive cooking technique. Whether you are looking for items fresh from the charcoal grill or hot from the tandoor oven, a collective journey through each will give you a literal taste of the scintillating flavours that characterise the region.

CHARCOAL SMOKED BLACK CHAR SIEW

A prime spot for prime roast cuts, the carving board stand is a definite eyecatcher. If the enticing selection of gleaming succulent meat cuts do not slow your steps, the aromatic wafts from them certainly will.

Begin with a sinfully decadent treat that is bound to set all eyes at the table alight: unlike the usual red variants, this iteration of char siew is finished with a dark ambrosial coating. Contrary to popular belief, this colouration is not from burning the meat during the roasting process.

Instead, the mahogany hue stems from slathering the slabs of pork in a rich char siew sauce with maltose as its base, then placed above an open fire until the glaze begins to caramelise from the heat. The result is a sticky, saccharine layer that encases the entire strip, allowing the centre to retain its signature moist tenderness with a smidge of smoky aftertaste.

CRISPY PORK ROLL

An equally appetising contender at the carving board is a modern interpretation of the popular Cantonese “Siew Yoke”. Available on rotation during dinner sessions, this stately fixture is a medley of meaty goodness that easily tops any diner’s must-try list.

This luxurious dish is created by first stuffing a generous amount of the kitchen’s unique blend of herbs and seasoning into a pork belly cut, then rolling everything into a tight spiral before letting it slow-roast over a fire.

When done, each slice gives you a wonderful intermingling of textures and flavours – the crisp burnished skin of the pork belly is contrasted against the tender interior, with the entirety of its core saturated with a savoury mix of its own juices and the infusion of herbs.

TAIWANESE SCALLION PANCAKE

A common sight at many Asian street food stands, the griddle is a quintessential kitchen aid that allows diners to enjoy fresh snacks without an extended wait. Migrating that concept into the comfort of its space, Spice Brasserie’s griddle station offers a similar convenience without the stifling heat and crowd typical of a night market setting.

One of the more popular street food items, the Taiwanese Scallion Pancakes is a dangerously addictive and easy-to-pop snack that also doubles as a carb accompaniment to a meat-centric meal.

To get its trademark textural variance, the rolled dough is repeatedly flattened and flipped on the griddle. This ensures both surfaces of the pancake get heated to an even crispness without allowing its folded centre to lose its chewiness.

When ready, you will be met with a savoury treat that is simultaneously flaky yet fluffy, with its predominantly savoury profile occasionally interspersed by the zest of fresh scallions. Grab a couple (or an entire stack) of these for a flippin’ good time!

SEAWATER GRILLED BARRAMUNDI

Fancy getting a hot-off-the-grill serving of your choice street food item in a buffet setting? Inspired by robatayaki – a Japanese method of cooking food over hot charcoal – at the charcoal grill, patrons are treated to a front-row seat of (literal) fireworks as they watch bite-sized gourmet versions of their desired items get grilled to smoky perfection.

For a leaner protein alternative, the Seawater Grilled Barramundi is a palatable main to centre your feasting around. The mild sweetness of the fish makes it an attractive option to many; the fire brings out the best qualities of the fish, leaving behind flavourful, supple chunks!

TANDOOR STATION

Once you’ve gotten your share of proteins, proceed down the line until you are met with the earthy scent of herbs and spices. Expect vibrant colours and even more vibrant flavours, many of which hold a slightly smoky aftertaste courtesy of the station’s highlight: a full-sized tandoor oven.

Look forward to a selection of Garlic Butter Rice, Prawn Tandoori, Vegetable Korma, Aloo Mutter, Vegetable Jalfrezy, Butter Chicken and Naan. Do note that the items are on a rotational basis.

If you’re craving for a more substantial carb to pair with the deluge of roasts and meat options, request for a helping of freshly baked gourmet naans– squid ink, cheese, and garlic curry – to wrap up your main courses with. Light and airy, these flavoured naans are tantalising enough on their own, but become truly scrumptious when dipped in the myriad of available curries.

BROKEN RICE CHARCOAL CLAYPOT PORRIDGE

When you’re done eating through all your favourite Asian street snacks, the mixture of oil and heavy flavours can leave a cloying sensation that diminishes any remaining appetite. If that happens, it’s time to look for a bowl of Broken Rice Charcoal Claypot Porridge to alleviate any mid-meal lethargy.

A luxurious interpretation of rice porridge using Vietnamese broken rice and a mixture of fish, flower clams, and occasionally oysters. Steeped for an extended period, the individual flavours of these seafood morsels permeate the broth, and the starch from the broken rice thickens the soup base.

The result is a nourishing porridge made even richer by a confluence of seafood infusions. A soulful dish that rejuvenates those who seek solace from it, the muted flavours aid in easing the appetites of weary diners, and is definitely a comfort food year-round.

TEPPANYAKI ICE CREAM

After you’ve sampled your fill of mains, end the night with a foray into Spice Brasserie’s enchanting dessert section. Amble through the colourful displays of sweets; hot or cold, there is a special, beautifully crafted something for everyone.

The highlight of buffet’s dessert spread, the Teppanyaki Ice Cream brings a more exciting twist to this perennial dessert favourite. Poured onto a metal flat-top, diners can watch the spectacle of the station’s chef deftly working his spatulas to create solid ice creams from a liquid batter. While teppanyaki typically entails cooking with heat, the technique is slightly different here: instead of a hot griddle, the surface is cold!

Try out two recommended flavours: Mango Pomelo Yogurt Ice Cream and Matcha Green Tea Red Bean Ice Cream. The former is a refreshing fruity option that belies a complex flavour – the sweetness from the mango and the mild bitterness of the pomelo sacs are compounded against the muted tartness of the yogurt ice cream, and topped with mango pops. The latter is a time-honoured duo of matcha and red bean, which holds a slightly fuller and creamier body.

If you fancy a more traditional selection of sweets instead, look towards local classics such as DIY Mua Chee with Peanut and Black Sesame and the alluring assortment of Nonya Kueh; for treats with a more novel regional twist, take a gander at the Durian Pengat with Sticky Rice and the Cempadak Crumble.

TRADITIONAL ROAST TURKEY

The definite highlight of the festive season, no Yuletide feast is complete until this staple makes its appearance at the table. Sticking to a tried-and-true formula this year, Spice Brasserie unveils a sizable Traditional Roast Turkey Stuffed with a medley of vegetables before burnished with a glistening butter glaze.

The fowl is slow-roasted until its skin begins to crisp and takes on its signature lustrous golden hue. Slow roasting not only keeps the centre moist and tender, but allows the flavours from the glaze and vegetables to percolate and diffuse into the rest of the bird as well.

Even if the composite seems simple, by ensuring each step of the process complies with the kitchen’s exacting standards, the result is an outstanding roast with delectable flavours that easily rivals its contemporaries.

BONE-IN GAMMON HAM WITH GINGER AND SARSI GLAZE

Another classic of the Yuletide season, Spice Brasserie presents a truly opulent take on the Christmas ham with their Bone-In Gammon Ham with Ginger and Sarsi Glaze.

Gleaming under the festive lights, the signature Sarsi and ginger glaze is the natural focal point of this dish. During the roasting process, the glaze begins to caramelise, leaving behind a thin sheen of sweet glaze that cuts through the monotony of the smoky protein base.

WHITE CHOCOLATE AND CREAM CHEESE RED VELVET YULE LOG WITH BRANDIED FRUITS AND NUTS

No buffet is complete without a sweet treat. Clad in Santa’s signature colours, Spice Brasserie’s interpretation of a Yule log is every bit as festive as one can hope for a holiday treat to be. This delightfully creamy number features a more unorthodox light red velvet sponge base, and pairs white chocolate with cream cheese to augment the cake to even more heavenly levels of lusciousness.

Encased within isn’t the usual coils of mousse layers either. Instead, its centre holds a treasure trove of fillings – Griottes cherries, cranberries, raisins, citrus peels; all steeped for multiple months in a blend of rum, kirsch and cognac for added potency.

This red velvet sponge base allows for a splendid contrast, lending a dense consistency upon which the bright bursts of flavours courtesy of the brandied fruits and nuts in its core can play off. If you are looking to fit a log cake into your dining agenda, experience this elegantly crafted oeuvre at Spice Brasserie.

For those who prefer to celebrate in the comfort of their own homes but do not wish to forgo this divine treat, this Yule Log is also available for takeaway at S$58+ from now until 22 December 2019. If you’re interested, place your pre-orders at least 3 days in advance by contacting PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road via spicebrasserie.prskt@parkroyalhotels.com, or at +65 6428 3160.

With the festive season drawing near, it’s time to pick up your phones and flex your typing fingers! If you’re quick, you can still enjoy the 20% off Festive Buffets if you book with full payment by 26 December 2019 for slots on either 31 December 2019 or 1 January 2020.

To make a reservation for the aforementioned Festive Buffets at Spice Brasserie, please contact PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road via spicebrasserie.prskt@parkroyalhotels.com, or at +65 6428 3160. Please note that all prices are subject to a 10% service charge (dine-in) and GST unless otherwise stated.

During this most wonderful time of the year, treat your loved ones to a feast at Spice Brasserie for an epicurean adventure worthy of ending your 2019 on. With its phenomenal spread of Asian specialties, pleasantly jovial service, and a perpetually comfortable ambience, a year-end celebration held at PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road is certain to be a jolly good time!

From now until 15 February 2020 (no blockout dates), simply quote “Ladyironchef” to enjoy 25% off Spice Brasserie’s buffet when making your reservations. With limited slots available per day, book now to avoid disappointment!

Festive Buffets
Lunch:
20 December to 24 December 2019: S$52++ per adult | S$26++ per child (6 – 12 years old)
25 December 2019: S$62++ per adult | S$31++ per child (6 – 12 years old)
26 December 2019 to 1 January 2020: S$52++ per adult | S$26++ per child (6 – 12 years old)

Dinner:
20 December to 23 December 2019: S$62++ per adult | S$31++ per child (6 – 12 years old)
24 December 2019: S$88++ per adult | S$44++ per child (6 – 12 years old)
25 December to 31 December 2019: S$62++ per adult | S$31++ per child (6 – 12 years old)
1 January 2020: S$52++ per adult | S$26++ per child (6 – 12 years old)

Spice Brasserie
PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road (Lobby Level)
181 Kitchener Road
Singapore 208533
Tel: +65 6428 3000 / +65 6428 3160 / 1800 2557 795 (Toll-free)
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm (Lunch), 6pm – 10pm (Dinner)
Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NEL)
Website | Facebook | Instagram
#PARKROYALKitchener #ShareYourMoments

This post was brought to you by Spice Brasserie at PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road.

After months of anticipation, Five Guys is finally making its first foray into Singapore!

Hailing from the land of fast food, this American cult favourite is a fast-casual burger joint with a simple goal: selling the best quality burgers possible.

That’s quite a bold statement. Then again, Five Guys takes pride in standing out from the crowd – after all, they claim their burgers are made of the right stuff.

Starting out as a humble business venture by four (plus one) brothers, Five Guys soon became the spot to grab a freshly-grilled burger at.

The brand then took off, and the rest is history. Now boasting over 1,600 outlets worldwide, the brand has recently set its sights on Asia.

Brought in by Zouk Group, Five Guys will open its flagship local outlet in Plaza Singapura. Located next to the main atrium, the store offers both indoor and al fresco seating.

Because all its burgers are made-to-order, the patty retains its moisture, the greens stay crisp, the buns remain airy, and the cheese continues to melt.

The chunky beef patty is no doubt the highlight; oozing with meat juices and partially charred from the grill, these hand-formed patties pull away easily with each.

With up to 15 distinct toppings, whether you want a slight twist or plan to go all the way, the choice is yours.  Five Guys has all the right stuff on hand; it’s up to you to pick how much of it you want.

Handcut and made from real potatoes, these strips are fried in peanut oil until golden-brown. These snacks have a fantastic contrast: crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. For something different, try their zesty Cajun seasoning!

If you’re feeling peckish while awaiting your meal, grab a handful of the complimentary roasted-in-shell peanuts for a quick snack. Addictively smoky, be careful not to fill up before your mains arrive!

Sliced butterfly-styled and freshly grilled, these hot dogs have the same smouldering saltiness as the patties. Pair them with your favourite toppings and savour with your bare hands – dripping sauces and all – for the optimal American diner experience!

For a lighter alternative, try their grilled sandwiches for an easier-on-your-belly and lower-calorie option without forgoing the brand’s signature taste and quality!

Smooth, creamy, and wonderfully saccharine. Handspun to the perfect consistency, the smoothies are an absolute slurpable delight, and the perfect accompaniments to the savoury-on-savoury profile of the mains.

Whether you’re an enthusiastic follower of Singapore’s Burger Wars or just craving a well-made burger, swing by Five Guys for a tantalising and unforgettable treat! Try to visit early; with how kiasu the foodie crowd is, that’s the only way to guarantee getting your hands on one!

68 Orchard Road
Plaza Singapura, #01-32/35
Singapore 238839
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

There is no question that Singaporeans love to frequent cafés. While cafés are aplenty, unfortunately, many well-known brands do not cater to folks with dietary restrictions.

Thankfully, with growing social awareness over recent years, more establishments have started embracing the goal of inclusivity. Be it through attaining Halal certification or via Muslim owners doing their due diligence, there now exists a myriad of Halal-friendly cafés for us to explore.

Whether you are craving the comfort of brunch food with a side helping of freshly brewed coffee, or prefer something more hearty with a touch of local flavours, here is a comprehensive guide to 38 Halal & Muslim-owned cafés in Singapore to chill with your friends at. Time to pencil in your schedules; a plethora of food experiences await your discovery!

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/afterwitsg/

AFTERWIT (HALAL)

A rare sight to behold, Afterwit fills the sorely lacking niche of Halal Mexican food in Singapore. Combining common Mexican favourites with local flavours for a truly unique taste experience, this is a place not to be missed (even more so for spicy food lovers)!

778A North Bridge Road
Singapore 198786
Tel: +65 6299 3508
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

ALL THINGS DELICIOUS (HALAL)

All Things Delicious lives up to its namesake by serving up a charming collection of freshly baked goods perfect for pick-me-ups. When visiting, must-tries include their delightful daily cake selection and a helping (or few) of their golden-crusted scones.

34 Arab Street
#01-01
Singapore 199733
Tel: +65 6291 4252
Tue to Sun: 10am – 9pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Bugis

BADOQUE CAFÉ (MUSLIM-OWNED)

The main reason to visit Badoque café is to badok (eat). From its tantalising spread of savoury dishes, go for their signatures of the mouth-tingling Kepak Bing Bing (spicy chicken wings) and lamb shank to really enjoy the brand’s characteristic rich flavours.

298 Bedok Road
Singapore 469454
Tel: +65 6446 6928
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tanah Merah

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/Beyond-Pancakes-788889701249357/

BEYOND PANCAKES (HALAL)

Have any Muslim friends who adore pancakes? This place is perfect for you! Whether you are looking for sweet or savoury pancakes, Beyond Pancakes has you covered. For the more adventurous souls, why not take this chance to try what dessert nachos taste like?

6 Raffles Boulevard
Marina Square Mall, #03-131A
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 6909 1230
Mon to Fri: 11am – 9.30pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade / Promenade
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

BUTTER STUDIO (HALAL)

Get ready your dessert stomach, for Butter Studio’s multitude of Halal-friendly homemade cakes and cupcakes are sure to entice! Want to have your cake and eat it too? No longer will you need to settle for a meagre slice – the brand offers modestly-sized – and very photogenic – cakes for one that will satisfy even the most ravenous sweet-tooth!

147 Jalan Besar
Singapore 208865
Tel: +65 6294 7115
Mon, Wed & Thu: 12pm – 9pm
Fri: 12pm – 11pm
Sat: 11am – 12am
Sun: 11am – 9pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Jalan Besar
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

CAFÉ GALILEE (HALAL)

Imagine exiting the library after a long day; stomach empty, and body fatigued, what you need is a nearby café to rest your weary self at. With Café Galilee present, no longer will you have to settle for a mediocre dining experience. A staple at multiple libraries, the Halal-friendly heartfelt fare served is much welcomed for many library-goers.

278 Marine Parade Road
Marine Parade Community Building, #01-02
Singapore 449282
Tel: +65 6348 0130
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Kembangan
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

CHARLIE BROWN CAFÉ (HALAL)

This longstanding themed-café defies the odds by constantly drawing a strong crowd to its doors. Not only can you and your friends dine alongside your favourite Peanuts characters; unlike most now defunct character cafés, the food is both cute and great in quality!

8 Grange Road
Cathay Cineleisure, #04-01
Singapore 239695
Tel: +65 6737 5979
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/Citrusbythepool/

CITRUS BY THE POOL (HALAL)

Literally situated next to Woodlands’ neighbourhood pool, Citrus offers a fantastic selection of affordable Western and Asian fusion dishes. A definite favourite of regulars here is the café’s signature of Tom-Yum Seafood Pasta, which features a variety of succulent seafood swimming in a vividly coloured sweet-spicy tom-yum broth.

3 Woodlands Street 13
Woodlands Swimming Complex
Singapore 738600
Tel: +65 6366 6581
Mon to Fri: 11am – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Marsiling
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/cobacobasg/

COBA COBA (HALAL)

Diverging from typical café food, Coba Coba serves a hearty mix of hawker-styled Malay and Indonesian fare in a casual retro café setting. Created with a wish to converge the paths of normally disparate lives, their iconic Nasi Ambeng platter is an unparalleled representation of that dream.

156 Yishun Street 11
#01-106?Singapore 760156
Tel: +65 6382 2622
Daily: 11am – 8.45pm
Nearest Station: Yishun

COMMONS (HALAL)

This Halal café offers the comfort of rustic café food with a local twist to weary travellers. With its affable service and relaxed space, visitors welcomed by this hospitality will hopefully find some respite from their travels, and start their journey into, or departure from Singapore with a smile.

78 Airport Boulevard
Jewel Changi Airport, #B1-289/290
Singapore 819666
Tel: +65 6242 9542
Daily: 10pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Changi Airport

FIKA SWEDISH CAFÉ & BISTRO (MUSLIM-OWNED)

Scandinavian food isn’t the easiest cuisine to come by in Singapore, with Halal-certified options being even more uncommon. Thankfully, Fika is here to provide homecooked Swedish staples and pastries. Keep an eye out for their cyclical seasonal menu – the dishes are marvellous for those looking to reminisce about the Swedish isles.

257 Beach Road
Singapore 199539
Tel: +65 6396 9096
Sun to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

FLAVOUR FLINGS (HALAL)

As the first café to offer the immensely popular salted egg yolk croissant, this spot has been a trail-blazer in the café scene since. Take note of its selection of Swiss Raclette Cheese-doused savoury dishes – they are absolutely dripping with delectably piquant flavours!

121 Hougang Avenue 1
#01-1348
Singapore 530121
Tel: +65 6286 0051
Mon, Wed to Fri: 11am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 9pm
(Closed on Tuesday)
Nearest Station: Kovan

FLUFF BAKERY (MUSLIM-OWNED)

Love cupcakes? You’ve got to try Fluff Bakery’s iteration! With an award-winning assortment of local-inspired flavours like Ondeh Ondeh and Teh Tarik alongside classics such as Salted Caramel and Red Velvet, there is a very fluffy (and visually pleasing) cupcake just right for you!

4 Jalan Pisang
Singapore 199079
Tel: +65 9660 3541
Wed & Thu: 11am – 8pm
Fri to Sun: 10am – 10.30pm
(Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Bugis

GRASSO COFFEE (HALAL)

Originally a takeaway kiosk, Grasso Coffee still serves its cups of joe at very reasonable prices. (Lattes at S$4? Sign us up!) If you are looking for warm food to go with, their bread-based meals – we are eyeing the luscious croissant with egg mayo – are comfortably under S$10.

1 Irving Place
The Commerze, #01-27
Singapore 369546
Tel: +65 9123 8399
Mon to Fri: 8am – 7.30pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/heysugarsg/

HEY SUGAR (HALAL)

On a hot day, a cold, sticky, refreshing ice cream number is just what most of us crave. With a glut of ice cream parlours around, Halal-certified Hey Sugar stands out not just because of its candy pink aesthetic, but also thanks to the quality of its honeyed treats.

Choa Chu Kang Avenue 1,
Block 818, #01-06
Singapore 680818
Tel: +65 6295 5509
Daily: 12.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Teck Whye / South View

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/Iamathajilane/

I AM… CAFÉ (MUSLIM-OWNED)

Drawing inspiration from Amsterdam’s iconic I Am…(sterdam), this café is helmed by three Muslim friends looking to introduce Halal European-inspired flavours to locals. By offering an open storefront alongside hearty European fare, they seek to bring a laidback respite to those caught in the bustle of their daily lives.

674 North Bridge Road
Singapore 188804
Tel: +65 6295 5509
Mon to Thu: 9am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 1am
Sun: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

Photo Credit: https://www.kraftwich.com

KRAFTWICH BY SWISSBAKE (HALAL)

When looking for café spots, we tend towards speciality places over the more lacklustre chain café alternatives. At Kraftwich on the other hand, not only are you in the comfort of an accessible location, you can enjoy their fairly priced and handsomely sized Halal Kraftwiches too.

1 Raffles Place
One Raffles Place, #B1-04/05
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 6438 5730
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 3.30pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

LAUNDRY GALLERY (HALAL)

Far from a place to wash your clothes at, Laundry Gallery is the resident café of said laundromat. Whether you are looking for a reprieve or waiting for the spin cycle to end, you can look forward to quality creamy ice creams and crispy waffles.

Tampines Street 23
Block 201E, #01-118
Singapore 527201
Tel: +65 8700 7622
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tampines East

LICKETY ICE CREAM & WAFFLES (MUSLIM-OWNED)

If the pastel-washed storefront doesn’t catch your eye, Lickety’s speciality of egglet waffles definitely will. This Muslim-owned café offers up egglet cones of photogenic treats in a multitude of bubblegum shades, and brings a Hong Kong-inspired twist to the traditional ice cream experience.

34 Bussorah Street
Singapore 199452
Tel: +65 6291 7670
Daily: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/linascafe/

LINA’S CAFÉ (MUSLIM-OWNED)

There are many ways to define a café: delicious good, eye-catching décor, strong brews, convenient locations et cetera. Muslim-owned Lina’s Café is a departure from the usual formula, choosing inclusivity by building its image around being a friends of autism café. Aside from classic café food, diners can pick from a list of traditional Malay dishes to supplement their visit.

7 Jalan Pisang
Singapore 199074
Tel: +65 9456 0992
Mon: 10am – 7pm
Tue to Sat: 11am – 8pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Bugis

LYNN’S CAKES & COFFEE (MUSLIM-OWNED)

A confounding existence to many, Lynn’s Cakes & Coffee enjoys a steady stream of customers despite its less than ideal location. Those who have tried the cakes understand otherwise: featuring a plethora of deceptively plain layer cakes, the magic lies in the resounding flavours that characterise these homely creations.

11 Eng Kong Terrace
Singapore 598983
Tel: +65 6314 2886
Tue to Sun: 11am – 7pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Beauty World

Photo Credit: http://olivye.com/

OLIVYE CAFÉ & GELATO (HALAL)

Want ice cream but also a meal prior? Olivye Café & Gelato offers not just an extensive Halal gelato selection, but also a full menu of hot mains for under S$20. With multiple local flavours present, variants especially popular with Muslim customers include the aromatic durian and seasonal cempedak variants.

Changi Village Road
Block 5, #01-2009
Singapore 500005
Tel: +65 6543 9518
Daily: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

OLD CHANG KEE COFFEE HOUSE (HALAL)

A café spin-off from the Old Chang Kee brand, their coffee house is evocative of a nostalgia from memories of yonder. Furnished with retro fittings and time-worn decorative pieces, customers can expect to be temporarily transported to a forgotten decade while enjoying the brand’s fragrant fare of quintessential Singapore breakfast staples.

19/21/23 Mackenzie Road
REX, #01-01
Singapore 228678
Tel: +65 6732 1665
Mon to Thu: 11am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 10am – 10pm
Sun: 10am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Little India
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

PENNY UNIVERSITY (MUSLIM-OWNED)

A mainstay with the Muslim café hopping crowd, Penny University has seen a burgeoning crowd over the years. Brimming with students and adults alike, patrons hanker for hearty servings of smoky roasts and unique mains, with many downing a helping of the café’s signature Muddy Espresso to complete their meal.

402 East Coast Road
Singapore 428997
Tel: +65 6345 9055
Daily: 8.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Kembangan

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/RockyMasterSingapore/

ROCKY MASTER (HALAL)

A lesser-known home-grown brand, Rocky Masters has been plating up affordable meals and offering gourmet brews since 1999. With its recent Halal-certification, Muslim friends can now enjoy aromatic cups of fresh brews alongside popular fusion dishes like their tangy Laksa Spaghetti and flavourful Curry Chicken Baked Rice.

402 Orchard Road
Delfi Orchard, #01-02/03
Singapore 238876
Tel: +65 6235 0998
Daily: 7.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@dannypannywanny

ROYZ ET VOUS (MUSLIM-OWNED)

Royz Et Vous is a superb café for multiple reasons. First, the portions are huge (drag-your-friends-to-enjoy level of big); second, the food is genuinely tasty; third, the prices are affordable; fourth, their brews are nothing to scoff at. With all that, we won’t judge if you end up a regular too!

137 Telok Ayer Street
#01-01
Singapore 068602
Tel: +65 6293 0270
Mon to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri: 11am – 4pm, 5pm – 11pm
Sat: 12pm – 4pm, 5pm – 11pm
Sun: 12pm – 4pm, 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/safaricafesg/

SAFARI CAFÉ (MUSLIM-OWNED)

The more muted reputation of this haunt doesn’t mean its food is any less terrific. Diners can bask in the beat of classic rock anthems as they snack on juicy burgers, all the while watching the world amble by beyond the borders of this little haven.

57 Haji Lane
Singapore 189250
Tel: +65 6292 0057
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/sofra.sg/

SOFRA TURKISH CAFÉ AND RESTAURANT (HALAL)

Another longstanding eatery, Sofra continues to provide a hefty list of Halal-friendly Turkish dishes to wanting locals. Offering everything from a bountiful array of kebabs to whimsical desserts – especially their Baklava – Sofra remains the premier café to enjoy Turkish bites with your friends at.

100 Beach Road
Shaw Tower, Shaw Leisure Gallery, #02-42/43/44
Singapore 189702
Tel: +65 6291 1433
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Fri: 11.30am – 10pm
Sat: 12pm – 10pm
Sun: 12pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

THE BRAVERY CAFÉ (HALAL)

As one of the more notable Halal cafés, The Bravery Café is a prime spot for passing folks to get a temporary recess from their day at. Customers can expect fresh – their herbs are handpicked from their own garden! – ingredients, silken blends, and an unpretentious and inviting ambience.

The Bravery cafe is in the midst of moving to a new location.

THE FLAME CAFÉ (HALAL)

The Flame Café is your typical brunch café by day. Past 3pm, it adds on a Halal-friendly steamboat fare to its original menu. Not just any ol’ steamboat, The Flame Café’s Pagoda Steamboat is a striking four-tiered tower of pure savoury goodness perfect for a large communal dinner.

73 Upper Paya Lebar Road
Central Bianco Building, Level 1
Singapore 534818
Tel: +65 6282 0251
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thehashtagcafesg/

THE HASHTAG CAFÉ (MUSLIM-OWNED)

A rather non-descript hole-in-the-wall establishment, The Hashtag Café remains a somewhat hidden gem in the Halal-friendly scene. Renowned for their local-western fusion mains, visitors can expect an unbridled coalescence of familiar regional tastes alongside a base of western flavours for a special dining experience.

743 North Bridge Road
Singapore 198711
Tel: +65 9722 4628
Sat to Thu: 11.00am – 10pm
Fri: 3pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thelazygardencafe/

THE LAZY GARDEN CAFÉ (HALAL)

One of the newer entrants in the Halal café scene, The Lazy Garden Café stands out by including more lavish mains amidst its offerings. To ease the damage on your wallet, try to time your visits to catch the incredibly worthwhile one-for-one promotion.

180 Kitchener Road
City Square Mall, #02-37/38
Singapore 208539
Tel: +65 9125 4662 (SMS only)
Daily: 11.00am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Farrer Park

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/themadsailors/

THE MAD SAILORS – BRITISH KITCHEN (MUSLIM-OWNED)

Another gem along the hip Haji Lane stretch, The Mad Sailors is a tongue-in-cheek café inspired by casual English pubs. With most of the menu featuring alternative pub fare, diners can expect a serving of their favourite sinful British dish with a heavy dose of regional flair.

24 Haji Lane
Singapore 198217
Tel: +65 8768 0465
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri: 12pm – 11pm
Sat: 10am – 11pm
Sun: 10am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

THE ROYALS CAFÉ (HALAL)

An indispensable member of the Halal scene, The Royals Café has been providing its customers with the finest Halal cakes since it opened its doors. Equally proud of its roots, the menu comprises of a varied mix of Malay and Western dishes to complement their enchanting dessert selection.

19 Upper East Coast Road
Singapore 455209
Tel: +65 8481 0080
Mon to Fri: 9am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

THREE’S A CROWD (HALAL)

At this Halal ice cream café, feel free to enter in groups of three; besides, good things are meant to be shared! Tucked away in the Tampines heartland, Three’s A Crowd provides an array of gratifyingly creamy flavours that are sufficiently substantial in taste without leaving a cloyingly saturated aftertaste.

Tampines Avenue 4
Block 802, #01-11
Singapore 520802
Tel: +65 6702 0700
Daily: 12.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Tampines West

TWO HANA (HALAL)

Hana deviates from the norm by presenting a modern take on Korean-Western fusion cuisine. Complementing its handle, Two Hana (quite literally, two one) features a confluence of the two food styles by infusing beloved Western dishes with a dash of Korean spices for a flavour profile unlike any other.

2 Tampines Central 5
Century Square, #01-21
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 6260 4321
Mon to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri: 11am – 10.30pm
Sat: 9am – 10.30pm
Sun: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

(WORKING TITLE) BURGER BAR (MUSLIM-OWNED)

Easy to miss with its weather-worn shopfront, this Muslim-owned eatery evolved from a humble coffee joint into a full-fledged proper burger bar. Not forgetting the original bulwark of its operations, the baristas will still serve you a remarkable cup of coffee if you so desire.

783 North Bridge Road
Singapore 198751
Tel: +65 8248 2841
Mon to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri: 11am – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bugis