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

Bukit Timah Plaza is an old shopping mall with many hidden gems and our latest discovery is Boyle’s Coffee which is situated beside Rise & Grind cafe. Nothing is over-the-top at Boyle’s Coffee and the most impressive thing you will find there is probably their chic espresso machine.

If you are looking for a change from the usual gimmicky cafes, Boyle’s Coffee is an artisanal cafe where you can settle in and escape with great coffee and some light bites.

The venue boasts a refined and welcoming interior, with dark brown and orange as its primary colours. It is a great place to make like-minded friends over exceptional coffee as guests are expected to share long communal tables.

We tried their Cappuccino (S$5.50) which came in the right temperature so you can drink it immediately. It was by far one of the better ones we have tried so far. Under the blanket of thick foam, we could taste the pronounced flavour from the espresso which went well with creamy hot milk.

Guests can choose to add chocolate or cinnamon powder on top of their cappuccino.

If you are looking for other coffee alternatives, you can try their signature Espresso (S$4) or more interesting flavours such as the Yuzu Latte (S$6.50).

Unlike their wide range of coffee options, Boyle’s Coffee keeps a simple food menu and one addictive temptation is the Ham & Cheese Grilled Sandwich (S$12). Savour all the cheesy goodness and generous slices of ham in between toasted bread.

Our only gripe was that the toasts are slightly overdone and hard which makes it difficult to bite.

Looking for more bites? There is also the Butter & Jam Toast (S$4) and Sticky Bun (S$4). Sweet treats include a selection of cakes over at the display counter.

Boyle’s Coffee
L1-CS1 Bukit Timah Plaza
1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Singapore 588996
Mon to Thu: 9.30am – 9pm
Fri: 9.30am – 9:30pm
Sat & Sun: 9am to 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World

Ming Jia Korean Food is a Korean cuisine eatery run by a middle aged Korean lady or as the Koreans term affectionately as “ahjumma”. This no-frills Korean eatery tucked in a corner of Bukit Timah Plaza looks unassuming from the front, but the place is nothing short of lively during the afternoon lunch hour crowd.

In one look, you will know that Ming Jia Korean Food serves up authentic Korean dishes as the majority of their customers are made up of Koreans and the lady boss enjoys a conversation or two with them.

This place is perfect for students and those working nearby who are looking for an affordable lunch or dinner option.

Most Korean restaurants offer free side dishes to go along with your meals and this is also a practice at Ming Jia Korean Food too. The fresh kimchi helped to induce our appetites before we got started on our main courses and we enjoyed the fluffy egg rolls as well.

The only thing to note is that the side dishes are not free flow.

The Yung Yang Dolsut Bibimbap (S$13.90+) comes with aromatic beef slices and generous portions of vegetables and mushroom. You get a seaweed soup with every order of a Bibimbap.

Ming Jia Korean Food’s Kimchi Sundubu (S$13.90+) is a traditional soft tofu stew with kimchi and comes with a bowl of white rice. The soup arrived boiling hot from the kitchen with a strong fragrant kimchi smell. This is a hearty bowl of kimchi soup which does not disappoint.

Ming Jia Korean Food is a popular dining destination so try to go during non-peak hours or expect to wait for around 15 minutes before you are able to get a table.

Ming Jia Korean Food
1 Jalan Anak Bukit
#B1-07 Bukit Timah Plaza
Singapore 588996
Nearest Station: Beauty World