For those who grew up in the West side of Singapore, Ng Kim Lee Confectionery would be a name familiar to you. A family-run bakery situated along Chun Tin Road, Ng Kim Lee Confectionery is known for selling Teochew-style pastries and traditional Western cakes at affordable prices.

Here’s why you should pay a visit to this bakery the next time you are in the Upper Bukit Timah area.

Step back into time once you reach the doorstep of Ng Kim Lee Confectionery. From traditional patterned tiled floors to the blue Bostwick collapsible gates (aka shophouse grilles), these are just some reasons why this humble bakery has stayed popular with many Singaporeans for more than 60 years.

Pastries always taste best freshly baked, and this is exactly what you’d get at Ng Kim Lee Confectionery. One of their top-selling bakes is the mini butter muffins.

At just S$0.70 per piece, you’d be able to sample many of their flavours without feeling the pinch. As we arrived rather late in the day, we only managed to pick up a couple of their Strawberry Muffins and Jam Muffins. These mini butter muffins had a balanced taste and was not overly buttery.

Other popular pastries that we sampled were the Honey Chicken Siew Pao (S$1.60 per piece) and Portuguese Egg Tart (S$1.50 per piece). The crust of the Honey Chicken Siew Pao was crispy and when cut, revealed tasty chicken chunks enveloped by a buttery flaky crust. The filling of the Portuguese Egg Tart had a slight milky flavour and its pastry was not overcooked.

If you fancy something sweeter, Ng Kim Lee Confectionery offers a decent spread of traditional Western cakes for your picking. We were told that the Durian Mousse Cake (S$3) and the Yam Mousse Cake (S$3) were their most popular flavours. Though you’d expect these ingredients to have strong flavours, both cakes were soft, slightly sweet, and light in flavour.

You can also pick up childhood snacks (such as Iced Gems, Pig Ears at S$3 per packet), Tau Sar Piah (S$4.50 per packet) and Walnut Biscuits (S$3 per packet) here. A tip: As their freshly baked pastries sell out quickly, we recommend visiting the bakery earlier in the day. Elsewise, drop by to enquire about their daily baking schedule so that you can pick up your favourite bakes fresh out of the oven.

Ng Kim Lee Confectionery
4 Chun Tin Road
Singapore 599591

Yuba Hut is opening a new outlet in the west of Singapore. Known for its Aburi sushi rolls and Japanese rice bowls, Yuba Hut’s newest outlet will be opening at Rail Mall on 23 Oct 2020.

Other than Rail Mall, the sushi chain is opening another outlet at Guoco Tower (formerly known as Tanjong Pagar Centre) in October.

With the addition of the two new outlets, Yuba Hut will have six locations around Singapore—Heartland Mall, Northpoint City, White Sands, The Poiz Centre, Guoco Tower and Rail Mall.

Fans of the brand will be happy to know that they are currently having a promotion for their signature Champion Maki Roll at S$9.90 on every Tuesdays.

Established in 2009 at Phoenix Park, Spruce has garnered a following for its burger, brunch and drinks over the past decade. It has opened its third outlet at HillV2, taking over the space vacated by Dean & Deluca.

Folks staying in the west of Singapore will be familiar with Spruce’s second outlet at the old fire station along 260 Bukit Timah Road. The new outlet at HillV2 is just a 5-minute drive away and it offers a similar menu of all-day dining favourites and brunch fare.

Enjoy a choice of house pour wines, spirits, or beer on tap at only S$7++ with the purchase of every main course (from Sunday to Thursday, 5pm to 8pm).

Spruce
4 Hillview Rise #01-01 HillV2, Singapore 667979
Mon – Fri: 10.30am to 10.30pm
Sat/Sun/PH: 9.00am to 10.30pm
Reservation Hotline: 9759 5790

Bukit Timah spans over a very large (or rather, long) stretch of road in the west side of Singapore, and is home to a great variety of restaurants and cafes. However, it can be tricky to venture to these eateries; navigating winding roads amidst islands of neighbourhoods without a car is not the easiest mission for those unfamiliar with the area.

Despite its meandering paths and general inaccessibility to public transport users, Bukit Timah is home to a hidden enclave of great cafes including the likes of perennial crowd-favourite, Atlas Coffeehouse, as well as amazing restaurants in the vicinity such as the restaurant-cum-marketplace, Greenwood Fish Market, and classy Italian restaurant, Ristorante da Valentino.

To aid your pilgrimage into the area, here is our guide to Bukit Timah’s Restaurants & Cafes. Clear your schedules, it’s time to satisfy your tummies!

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

AJIYA OKONOMIYAKI RESTAURANT

Craving some okonomiyaki? Not a particularly common sight – especially when we consider one with proper seating – Ajiya is a welcomed addition to the Japanese dining scene in the area.

Perfect as a casual meal or as a family activity, you can opt to either get the staff to grill up your okonomiyaki for you, or try your hand at designing and cooking one yourself!

104 Jalan Jurong Kechil
Singapore 598603
Tel: +65 6463 3461
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 9.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Beauty World

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

ATLAS COFFEEHOUSE

The sister cafe of the now-defunct Assembly Coffee, Atlas Coffeehouse is located just a few minutes walk away from Botanic Gardens MRT Station. For the best spot, pick a table next to the floor-to-ceiling windows for ample natural light and casual people watching.

Notable dishes you should try include the Butterscotch Banana Pancake (S$18.50) and Creamy Mushrooms On Sourdough (S$12).

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

BAKER & COOK

When you are here, do pair their aromatic coffee blends with their freshly baked pastries – the Mixed Berry Bun and Lemon Drizzle Cake are fantastic choices. In the event of a heavy crowd (or rain if you lack an umbrella or raincoat), pop by their outlet at the nearby Chip Bee Gardens (Holland Village) instead.

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.

BAR BAR BLACK SHEEP

As a multi-dining concept restaurant, this is the place to go for the fickle-minded. Be it Indian cuisine or classic Western fare, there’s something for each member of your dining group when you visit Bar Bar Black Sheep. As a bonus, you can enjoy watching live screenings of your favourite sports matches while being in the serenity of Botanic Gardens’ Bamboo Forest!

501 Bukit Timah Rd
#01-05C, Cluny Court
Singapore 259760
Tel: +65 6763 4757
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 12am
Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 1am
Sat: 12pm – 1am
Sun: 12pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

BOON TONG KEE

For those lamenting the lack of good hawker food in the area in an air-conditioned setting, there’s a full-fledged Boon Tong Kee outlet in the vicinity!

While the price point is a good margin above that of your more routine hawker stalls, you can expect the chicken served to be wonderfully silken, with a chilli that is delightfully piquant, and rice that is mouthwateringly fragrant. As a bonus, they serve a hearty selection of zi char dishes too!

18 Cheong Chin Nam Road
Singapore 599742
Tel: +65 6463 2289
Mon to Fri: 11am – 2.45pm, 3.30pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

CAMACA

Beat Singapore’s sweltering weather and look cute while doing it with Camaca’s macaron-shaped capsule ice-creams. Savour flavours such as Roasted Oolong, Musang King Durian and Royal Earl Grey; if you’re feeling guilty about indulging, rest easy knowing that the entire selection of gelato is sugar-free. For a mid-day treat, pair their airy Swiss Rolls with a cup of their single-origin coffee brews for a mid-day treat.

9 King Albert Park
KAP Mall, #01-11/12
Singapore 598332
Tel: +65 6904 3811
Mon to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: King Albert’s Park

CARPENTER & COOK

As both a vintage home store and cafe, this cafe along Lorong Kilat boasts an eye-catching interior. Besides its decor, get ready to be regaled by tantalising pastry options such as the popular Passion Fruit Meringue Tart and their colourful range of macarons.

19 Lorong Kilat
#01-06 Singapore
Tel: +65 6463 3648
Mon to Fri: 10am – 10pm
Sat: 9am – 10pm
Sun: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

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

Nestled amongst residences at Bukit Timah is Crown Bakery & Cafe. Established in 2015, Crown Bakery & Cafe offered bread and bakes made with the very best of ingredients from all around the globe. This includes Hokkaido Kitanokaori flour, German sourdough and the creamiest French butter; no artificial flavours or ingredients at all!

It is no wonder that Crown Bakery & Cafe is not only a favourite amongst locals but expats living nearby. If you’re craving some good dough, visit this local bakery for some of the best freshly-baked goods in Singapore.

Check out what we thought about Crown Bakery & Cafe!

Scanning through their stacked rows of golden-brown pastries, we immediately knew that we had to try their 27-Layer Croissant (S$3.20). Its flaky exterior was practically calling out to us from the display shelves! We would recommend you to get it toasted before eating, though.

Despite it being but a plain pastry, it was packed with the taste of fresh butter. The layers fell apart upon biting into it and it was deliciously flaky and flavourful.

It was already perfect on its own, just imagine if it were paired with some cream cheese or spreads!

Other than their croissant, Crown Bakery also serves up interesting pastries like their French-Japanese fusion Seaweed Cheese Croissant (S$4), Sweet Potato Bread (S$2.93) and classic French Baguette (SS4.50).

Other than pastries, Crown Bakery & Cafe also serves several Breakfast, Brunch and Mains, along with an extensive menu of drinks.

Located just a short bus ride from Botanic Gardens MRT Station, it’s the perfect respite for weekend brunch-goers and those wanting to treat the family to some quality baked goods.

Crown Bakery & Cafe
557 Bukit Timah Road
#01-03 Crown Centre
Singapore 269694
Tel: +65 6463 3066
Mon to Thu: 7.30am – 7pm
Fri to Sun: 7.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens/Tan Kah Kee

Greenwood Avenue. Unbeknownst to many, this particular enclave is not just a place filled with flashy cars, big houses and upperclassmen. In fact, this supposed ‘rich man’s land’ is a foodie haven that houses some of the most interesting eats.

Don’t let these restaurants intimidate you with their chic facades and the extensive wine displays scare you because many of the eateries nestled along Greenwood Avenue offer great nosh at not-so-exorbitant prices. What’s more, the quiet and relaxing vibe of the neighbourhood provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Many restaurants have come and gone over the years in this enclave so here is our updated food guide to Greenwood Avenue.

73@HILLCREST

Perhaps one of the more wallet-friendly eateries in the area, 73@Hillcrest serves as a coffee shop by day and transforms into a bistro by night. Most of the items on their menu are kept below S$13 and there is no GST and service charge.

If you pop by for brunch, do try their Avocado & Poached Egg (S$12.80). Think perfectly poached eggs with a luscious runny centre and generous servings of ripe avocado and kale.

73 Hillcrest Road
Singapore 288945
Tel:+65 9694 5888
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Fri: 11.30am – 11pm
Sat: 8.30am – 11pm
Sun: 8.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

BAKER & COOK

This cosy artisanal bakery at the end of the stretch is an ideal place to relax with a book while sipping on a hot coffee.

Fresh bakes include cakes, fruit tarts and bagels—of which all are available for takeaway too. But of course, eating it fresh and warm on the spot is best.

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

FARANGSE

Offering a French-Issan dining experience in Greenwood Avenue, Farangse features French and Thai fare in a cosy and comfortable space that also has an al fresco dining area.

Utilising traditional cooking methods and the freshest produce, Farangse promises that everything used in their food is freshly made in their restaurant.

24 Greenwood Ave
Singapore 289221
Tel: +65 9630 4526
Tue: 6pm – 10pm
Wed to Sun: 11.30am – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Monday)
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

FRATINI LA TRATTORIA

Omakase dining is something synonymous with Japanese cuisine, but what if we told you that this unassuming Italian joint up in Greenwood Avenue adopts a similar dining concept as well?

At Fratini La Trattoria, the menu changes as and when the chefs see fit—which happens often—so diners can look forward to an ever-changing menu featuring the finest Italian flavours, exceptional wine pairings and delectable desserts.

10 Greenwood Avenue
Hillcrest Park
Singapore 289201
Tel: +65 6468 2868
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

GREENWOOD FISH MARKET

For many years now, Greenwood Fish Market has been around and still, it continues to wow us with their stellar fish and chips and seafood offerings. This is a no-nonsense and minimal extravagance sort of joint—just fresh, honest seafood prepared with simple cooking techniques.

If you are looking to splurge, the seasonal Alaskan king crab will do just the trick. If not, nothing like a plate of crispy fish and chips to put your tummy in a happy place.

34 & 38 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289236
Tel: +65 6467 4950
Daily: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

MO & JO SOURDOUGH BURGERS

Mo & Jo Sourdough Burgers dish up honest and simple burgers that are incredibly irresistible due to the wholesome ingredients and pillowy soft buns that they use in their food.

Not only do they serve mouth-watering burgers, but their restaurant is also child and dog-friendly!

8 Greenwood Ave
Singapore 289198
Tel: +65 6463 4626
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

PEPERONI PIZZERIA

This family favourite offers affordably priced pies topped with copious amounts of fresh toppings from sun-dried tomatoes to prosciutto, pancetta and seafood. Their family pizza is colossal, to say the least, and is worth getting for groups of 4 or more.

Their pasta offerings are pretty decent as well but the one dish that trumps all others (to us) is their Crispy Portobello and Chicken starter.

6 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289195
Tel: +65 6465 6556
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 11pm
Sun: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

ROSSO BIANCO

Be transported onto the streets of Rome at Rosso Bianco, this restaurant takes pride in their authentic yet wholesome Italian cuisine.

From classic dishes such as Lasagna Fatta in Cassa to the unique Bismark Pizza and hearty Iberico Pork Chop; Rosso Bianco is a must-try at Greenwood Avenue.

2 Greenwood Avenue
Singapore 289189
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10.30pm
Fri to Sun: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

RUBATO ITALIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

With its massive restaurant space and flashy sign, Rubato is a hard one to miss. Just like its decor, the menu offerings are kept simple yet fresh and inviting.

Their pasta is handmade and prepared à la minute and pizzas are all tasty with a thin, crispy and mildly charred crust courtesy of their in-house wood-fired oven.

12 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289204
Tel: +65 6252 3200
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 12am
Sat & Sun: 11am – 12am
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

SATISFOOD

Combining a bakery, deli, grocer and sit-down restaurant all in one, Satisfood is sure to satisfy any hungry soul.

Daily, their in-house pastry chef kneads fresh dough into bread and sculpts artisanal desserts, the chef meticulously transforms fresh produce into culinary works of art and the barista thumps away, brewing up some killer coffee for the weary hearts.

2 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289189
Tel: +65 6463 4206
Mon to Fri: 10am – 12am
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 12am
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

SHIN YUU JAPANESE CUISINE

Over at Shin Yuu, you can bet that you will get quality out of every buck.

From their fresh sashimi to sushi rolls, nigiri, grilled meats and tempura, you will be spoiled for choice. Portion sizes are generous and the items served here are loads better than many commercial buffet restaurants out there.

16 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289209
Tel: +65 9688 2996
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

THE CHEESE ARTISANS

Lovers of wine and cheese and every other fancy European delicacy in between are in for a treat at The Cheese Artisans. Inspired by artisanal cheese shops in the iconic cities and country towns of Europe, these folks here mean serious business.

With over 80 varieties of European artisanal cheeses—from Comte to their in-house aged Smokey Blue Yan Xun Wei with Chinese Tea Leaves—there will be something to suit every palette and every mood.

18 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289212
Tel: +65 6463 2711
Mon to Fri: 9am – 6pm
(Closed on Saturday and Sunday)
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

When King Albert’s Park is mentioned, people normally think of the good ol’ days when McDonalds occupied the area. However, now, the place has been completely revamped into an up-and-coming mall space.

Just a walk through King Albert’s Park Mall, you will see several cafes and restaurants, including a new cinema. One such place that caught our eye was the sleek and simple Camaca cafe.

Camaca is a sugar-free dessert cafe, serving up indulgent treats that come without the guilt, along with a wide selection of single-origin coffees.

We ordered the Roasted Oolong Tea gelato (S$4.80++) and were pleasantly surprised by how creamy and flavourful the ice cream was even though it is sugar-free! The deceiving giant macarons on display were actually just packaging for the gelato inside.

The staff explained this keeps the gelato from turning too icy, hence maintaining a smooth texture. They even have a special machine to “de-shell” their gelato and to churn it out in a swirl after. One gripe we had was that it started to melt very quickly after it was served, but it was satisfying nonetheless!

Their gelato features all-natural flavours such as Pomelo Tea, Lychee Rose and even Musang King Durian. You can choose to have your gelato with an add-on of waffles (S$10.00) as well.

Camaca also serves a selection of pastries, and we managed to try their popular Vanilla Cheese Roll (S$4.00++), served with a splash of berry coulis.

It was truly one of the softest roll cakes we have ever tried—the texture of the cake and cream felt like cloud on our tongues. It was mildly sweet, with specks of vanilla bean running through the cream.

Lastly, we tried their Camaca SG Limited blend in the form of a Cappuccino (S$5.50++). It had a well-balanced flavour with hints of acidity and a lingering bitter note. The blend consists of 5 different beans from various origins including Ethiopia and Columbia.

They do serve up more varieties of single-origin coffees with other more unique tasting notes. Their staff were more than happy to explain the tasting notes of each of the bean varieties when we asked. They don’t provide any sugar with their coffee but you can request for some syrup!

Located just a stone’s throw away from King Albert’s Park MRT, Camaca is a great place to fight the increasingly warm weather with their gelato or to simply enjoy some cake and coffee. Keep an eye out for their bright green signboard; it’s hard to miss.

Camaca
9 King Albert Park #01-11 / #01-12
Singapore 598332
Tel: +65 6904 3811
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: King Albert’s Park

Nestled in the new KAP Residence Mall along King Albert Park, Kindred Folk is a charming double-storey ice cream café that provides a relaxing respite where families and friends can gather and indulge in an array of comforting, homemade recipes.

Serving a decent selection of unique homemade ice cream such as Roasted Rice Milk Tea and Wasabi, patrons get to pair them up with charcoal waffle, cone and even deep-fried man tou (Chinese buns)! Beyond that, the menu also features a variety of fusion pasta and finger food such as Tom Yum Aglio Olio and Fried Chicken Drumlets.

Place your orders on the first floor before heading up the second floor where you will find seats with an idyllic view and a hammock you can rock on.

Kindred Folk’s tantalising Mi-So Sexy pasta (S$15) was full of flavours and it came with al dente Capellini tossed in savoury miso sesame sauce, topped with an onsen egg and  generous amounts of sautéed shimeiji mushrooms.

The café also offers lunch sets (S$12.90) that come with a bowl of wholesome pasta and a drink of your choice (black coffee/ ice lemon tea/ canned drink). Students studying in the campuses nearby can consider dropping by for their student meals (S$9.90).

Ice cream flavours that caught our attention were Roasted Rice Milk Tea (S$3.70) and Cereal Milk (S$3.70). Customers can top up a dollar for the Charcoal Cone or a Fried Mantou.

The Roasted Rice Milk Tea ice cream with Charcoal Cone was a unique combination. The charcoal cone had a subtle earthy flavour that complemented the slightly nutty Roasted Rice Milk Tea.

Kindred Folk’s Fried Mantou (S$1 for a mantou, add S$3.7 for a scoop of ice cream) is a must-order! Sandwiched between the Cereal Milk ice cream, the piping hot Fried Mantou provided a very good crunch and texture that grows on you with every bite. The Cereal Milk ice cream may be on the sweeter side but it paired so well with the savoury Fried Mantou that we devoured ours in seconds.

With that, Kindred Folk is a hidden gem in Bukit Timah that makes a perfect place to unwind and relax or study if you wish. This humble ice cream café won us over with their down-to-earth concept that focuses on serving quality food.

Kindred Folk
9 King Albert Park
#01-09, King Albert Park Shopping Mall
Singapore 598332
Tel: +65 6928 3043
Mon to Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest station: King Albert Park