Established in 2012, Flock Cafe is a family-run rustic café in Tiong Bahru which serves a range of all-day-breakfast dishes and coffee.

It has just opened a new outlet in the east of Singapore at Tanjong Katong this week.

The new outlet is located along the stretch of restaurants and eateries at Tanjong Katong which includes Punggol Nasi Lemak, Trattoria L’Operetta, 6 Letters Coffee, and Supernova.

The menu is similar to the original Tiong Bahru outlet, and the East-siders can try Flock Cafe’s all-day breakfast fare such as Big Breakfast, Avocado Toast, and Banana French Toast. Enjoy a cup of coffee which is brewed using Liberty Coffee’s blend.

You can also bring your pets along and dine at the outdoor area.

Flock Cafe
226 Tanjong Katong Road
Singapore 437015

Popular lifestyle cafe, PS.Cafe has opened a new outlet at i12 Katong in the east of Singapore on 24 May 2022.

Photo credit: PS.Cafe

PS.Cafe’s newest outlet in Katong comes with a breezy terrace that is the perfect spot for people watching.

The outdoor patio is also a pet-friendly space, you can bring your furkids along for a meal.

Other than the classic PS.Cafe dishes such as PS.Big Breakfast, PS.Burger Truffle fries and Sticky Date Pudding, there are also new additions to the menu at PS.Cafe Katong.

PS. Cafe has long been known to serve up one of the best sticky date puddings in Singapore, and we can only agree. This warm plate of pudding is always served at the perfect temperature and has a spot-on balance of flavours – definitely worth every penny!

PS.Cafe Katong
112 East Coast Road, #01-01/02/03,
i12 Katong, Singapore 428802

Opened by the same team behind Atlas Coffeehouse, Supernova is a new restaurant & cafe which has joined the ever-growing list of cafes in the east in Singapore. It is located at 266 Tanjong Katong Road along the same stretch of eateries including Ponggol Nasi Lemak, Trattoria L’Operetta, Kazo Cafe and Eng’s Wantan Noodle.

Supernova officially opened its doors to the public today (20 April 2022).

Supernova is the group’s 6th outlet in Singapore and they operate other popular cafes and coffee shops in Singapore including Apollo Coffee Bar, The Neptune, Lunar Coffee Brewers, and Columbus Coffee Co.

Unlike their other cafes, Supernova is a slightly upmarket concept. Think of it as your neighbourhood restaurant where you can have brunch fare and excellent coffee in the day and a refined space which serves hearty mains and natural wines in the evening.

Supernova has several tables in the outdoor area and it is a pet-friendly cafe where you can bring your dogs along for a good meal.

Fans of Neptune will recognise the Chorizo, Eggs & Avo (S$20.9), while regulars to Columbus Coffee Co will definitely be happy to see The Super Nutty Açaí bowl (S$16.4) on the menu. Other than that, the menu includes many exciting new dishes that we cannot wait to try.

The Steak Hash (S$26.90) came highly recommended and it did not disappoint. It came with 180g of tender sirloin steak cubes, crispy potatoes, two organic sunny-side up eggs, kale and red onions.

Supernova opens from 8am and you can find a selection of brunch items including Fried Chicken French Toast (S$24.5), Baked Eggs (S$24.5) with bacon, portobello, focaccia, Grilled Cheese & Pumpkin Soup (S$18.5), and Buttermilk Waffle (S$12.5).

We also tried the excellent Eggs in Meurette (S$24) from the lunch menu and it featured two poached eggs, mushrooms, and pickled shallots on a fried sourdough with a delicious bacon red wine stew.

From the lunch and dinner menu, you get other choices such as Wagyu Cheeseburger (S$22.9), Rigatoni (S$21), Fisherman’s Stew (S$27.5) and Vegan Grain Bowl (S$21.9).

It is interesting to see that Supernova is offering Okonomiyaki on its dinner menu.

Supernova
266 Tanjong Katong Road Singapore 437053
Tel: +65 6518 9600
Tue – Sat: 8am – 10pm
Sun: 8am – 7pm

Located at Marine Cove in East Coast Park, East Coast Commune is a family-friendly cafe that serves speciality coffee, cold pressed juices, hearty sandwiches, fresh bakes, natural wines and craft beers.

One of the most beautiful cafes in Singapore, it is a great hangout spot which is worth travelling to East Coast Park for.

What we like about East Coast Commune:

• Beautiful cafe with a high ceiling and lots of potted plants
• Family-friendly cafe with an indoor play area and baby changing room
• A space that is perfect for all ages—families, couples, friends and kids
• Reasonably-priced pasta, sandwiches and brunch food
• Great location at East Coast Park (just next to McDonald’s)

The name reflects its intention to be a gathering spot for all ages—there’s something for everyone here. The kids can have fun at the indoor play area while the adults can enjoy a leisure brunch with a cup of coffee, or a craft beer or two.

East Coast Commune’s menu features a selection of Sourdough Sandwiches (S$11), Pasta (S$19), The Brekkie (S$18), Fried Chicken & Waffle (S$18) and Fresh Sourdough Waffle (S$12).

Classic sweet waffles (S$12) with ice cream, whipped cream, maple syrup, icing sugar.

Cappuccino (S$5)

Baby changing room

We love the vibe of East Coast Commune and we will definitely be back soon!

East Coast Commune
1000 ECP, #01-03, Singapore 449876

There are so many great cafes in the East, especially in Katong and Joo Chiat.

The Eastern part of Singapore has all along been well known for housing some of the best-hidden food gems and it is little wonder why it is always so packed during the weekends.

More often than not, this area gets instantly recognized for its deep Peranakan roots, but if you were to spend a day exploring the quaint neighbourhood, you’ll start to realize that there is more to Katong and Joo Chiat than its history. In fact, walk down any street within the area and you’ll start to see the growth of a budding cafe culture.

To help you explore Katong and Joo Chiat better the next time you’re in the area, here are 11 cafes to visit for that needed caffeine fix.

Avenue Cafe

Established by a group of interior designers, Avenue Cafe aims to combine furniture shopping with cafe allure to bring you a different kind of in-house experience.

Here, you’ll get a chance to experiment with some of the furniture which is sold in the cafe while having a chat with a friend over a cup of coffee. The cafe is also known for its hot dogs which have flavours inspired by five different countries – China, Germany, Korea, Mexico and Singapore.

454 Joo Chiat Road Singapore 427667
Sun to Thu: 10am – 10pm
Fri, Sat & Eve of Public Holiday: 10am – 12am
Nearest station: Dakota

Baker’s Well

Since they opened in 2004, Baker’s Well has been producing humble homemade baked goods, which have been prepared and packed with love. From muffins to cakes and cookies, each product is baked with precision and quality ingredients for the best taste.

Plus, no worries about the calories here – their muffins are made with no butter and less sugar!

35 East Coast Road Singapore 428754
Daily: 8am – 9pm
Nearest station: Paya Lebar

Photo Credit: Brawn and Brains Coffee

Brawn and Brains Coffee

Founded in 2013, Brawn & Brains Coffee has since grown from a tiny coffee shop to a bonafide cafe with two outlets under their belt.

Their most recently opened outlet in the Katong area features a new coffee and food menu that uses different brewing methods for a good cup of Joe, as well as fresh yet simple ingredients to create hearty comfort food.

218 East Coast Road Singapore 428916
Tue to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat, Sun & Public Holidays: 8.30am – 6pm
Closed on Mondays
Nearest station: Eunos

Photo Credit: Café De Nicole

Café De Nicole

This floral shop and cafe is an Instagrammable pet-friendly joint that allows you to enjoy a good cup of coffee alongside furry friends, as well as their friendly resident house cat who is aptly named ‘Lao Ban’!

In addition to their wide variety of food, Café De Nicole is also widely known for their aesthetically pleasing drinks like the colour-changing Mermaid Tears, and their sweet Souffle Pancakes.

224 Telok Kurau Road #01-01 Singapore 423836
Tue to Fri: 9am – 8pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 9pm
Closed on Mondays
Nearest station: Kembangan or Eunos

Photo Credit: Choice Cuts Goods + Café

Choice Cuts Goods + Café

Known as a lifestyle concept shop, cafe and bar, Choice Cuts offers visitors a relaxed atmosphere where they can enjoy speciality coffee, craft beers and light snacks while browsing through the selection of vinyl records, hip hop inspired lifestyle products, accessories and streetwear brands.

Each cup of speciality coffee comes in a hand-stamped takeaway cup and is made from a blend of the finest beans from Brazil, Honduras, and Ethiopia.

451 Joo Chiat Road #01-07
Katong Point Singapore 427664
Tue to Thu: 11am – 9pm
Fri: 11am – 11pm
Sat: 9am – 11pm
Sun: 9am – 9pm C
losed on Mondays
Nearest station: Dakota

Photo Credit: Forty Hands

Forty Hands

Having successfully run their flagship branch in Tiong Bahru, Forty Hands moved East and have been serving satisfied Easties since they opened their second outlet early last year.

Alongside signature favourites, the outlet in the Katong area has given Forty Hands an opportunity to reinvent their menu through an exploration of their kopitiam roots to create new dishes for brunch like the Stinky Har Cheong Gai Waffle, served with shrimp paste batter-fried chicken, sambal maple syrup and a sunny side up fried egg.

226 East Coast Road
Singapore 428923
Daily: 7.30am – 6.30pm
Nearest station: Eunos

Gobi Desserts

Get ready to go on a gastronomical journey at this aesthetically pleasing cafe which serves lovingly-made bite-sized desserts. And, if you are a big fan of Souffles, Gobi Desserts has got you covered with their selection of gorgeous, flavoured souffle!

350 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427598
Mon to Thu: 7am – 9pm
Fri to Sun: 7am – 10pm
Nearest station: Dakota

Group Therapy Katong

If travelling to Duxton isn’t ideal for you, perhaps the outlet at Katong would make a more enticing place for you to have brunch with your loved ones.

Located within Katong V, Group Therapy Katong brings a casual and approachable concept that fits in perfectly with the laidback feel of the area. In addition to their comfortable seating, the cafe also has an all-day menu which features some breakfast classics, mains and homemade desserts!

30 East Coast Road
#01-11
Katong V
Singapore 428751
Daily: 8am – 6pm
Nearest station: Paya Lebar

Photo Credit: Homeground Coffee Roasters

Homeground Coffee Roasters

Having only had an online shop previously, Homeground Coffee Roasters has since grown into a physical shop that now roasts their coffee fresh for customers!

Besides their freshly brewed beverages, they also have food available such as open-faced toasts, seasonal cakes, and bagels. One item to try on the menu is their take on a local breakfast favourite, the Level Up Kaya Toast (S$8), that is served with a 63 degrees sous vide egg on the side!

475 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427682
Thu to Tue: 9am – 6pm
Closed on Wednesdays
Nearest station: Dakota

Photo Credit: Penny University

Penny University

Motivated to bring artisanal coffee to the East Coast, Penny University has been the Mecca for coffee lovers since 2012, with their freshly roasted speciality coffee.

Here, you’ll not only find a wide offering of beverages but also an extensive variety of food available. From brunch to dinner or just desserts, anytime is the right time to unwind and enjoy good company at this cafe.

402 East Coast Road
Singapore 428997
Daily: 8.30am – 10pm
Nearest station: Eunos

Sinpopo Brand

From the team which brought you Awfully Chocolate, Sinpopo Brand takes you back in time with their nostalgic retro vibes which are evident in their rustic furniture and old-school music.

The menu has also been crafted to offer locally-inspired food such as the Babi Toast (S$7), the house special Nasi Lemak for Two (S$25), and the Orange Kaya Pisang Creme Brûlée (S$7).

458 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427671
Mon to Thu & Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 1am
Nearest station: Dakota

Century Square’s renovations are finally about done and the malls spanking new look is definitely well worth the wait. Apart from that, the mall is packed with a whole bunch of new food options that have got out bellies rumbling.

Amongst them is FrapasBar by the renowned Saveur. This new restaurant serves up delectable, authentic French fare and tapas with modern twists here and there—all while keeping prices affordable. Craving French? FrapasBar will not disappoint, especially not their S$15 lunch deals that feature both a fancy starter and a hearty main.

Beautifully furnished with marble tables, plush chairs and a gorgeous circular bar decked out in wooden textures to match, this restaurant exudes vibes of a classic French cafe.

Posh as the establishment might appear, rest assured that prices here are kept consistent with that of Saveur. Their lunch deals are especially enticing—for just S$15++, you get an appetiser and a main.

We started off with a plate of their Crabmeat Croquette (S$9), which featured crab meat that was mixed with fennel, cucumber, red chilli, spring onion, mayo and coconut.

The croquette was nice and crisp on the outside, yet still managed to remain tender and juicy on the inside. The crab meat lent a subtle, sweet flavour to the croquettes which went well with the other components. We recommend adding a dash of lemon to it before you eat it — it really makes quite a difference!

Next up, we had the Saveur Pasta (S$6) which consisted of angel hair pasta mixed with chilli oil, kombu, pork sauce and sakura ebi.

The varying tastes and textures of all the ingredients came together to create a fragrant medley of flavours. The pasta was also cooked to a perfect al dente giving it a nice, slightly chewy texture.

Moving on to the mains, we tried their Duck Confit (S$15), served on a bed of creamy mash and cooked to a lovely, golden crisp. Served alongside are a grilled orange round and a handful of fresh watercress.

The confit of duck, was immensely crunchy while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. The mash, on the other hand, was in another league of its own and was lusciously creamy and delicious.

Finally, we had a plate of their Seafood Bouillabaisse Pasta (S$16), which we have to admit is our favourite. This lip-smacking pasta dish consisted of angel hair pasta topped with fresh and juicy seafood such as mussels, squid, prawns and sea bass.

The varying flavours of the seafood added a great depth of flavour and texture to the overall dish. We also like how generous they were with the amount of seafood they gave. Taking inspiration from the classic French stew, we’d say that they nailed the recipe down perfectly.

FrapasBar by Saveur
2 Tampines Central 5, #01-35
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 6789 1121
Daily: 11.30am – 12pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

Put together a list of the best dining establishments in Singapore and you will find that many of them are located in the East. Just in Tampines alone, you are spoil for choice with the wide array of food options.

When it comes to desserts, there are also a handful of ice cream cafes that delight with their assortment of interesting flavours, excellent quality and cosy atmosphere. For those who reside in the East, these are the best places to hang out after work or school for some sweet treats!

Here are 4 Ice Cream Cafes In Tampines with Great Ice Cream & Waffles!

Photo Credit: Three’s A Crowd

THREE’S A CROWD

Three’s A Crowd is well known for their handcrafted ice cream, oven baked cakes and milkshakes. There is Kris Grey, a must-order for Earl Grey tea lovers and Coco Bailey for the liquor lovers.

Like any other ice cream parlours, Three’s A Crowd serves their ice cream in either a cup or cone. However, should you choose the latter, you are in for a treat! Their ice cream cones are sprinkled with tiny marshmallows, almond flakes or rainbow bits.

Blk 802 Tampines Ave 4, #01-11
Singapore 520802
Tel: +65 6702 0700
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tampines West

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Photo Credit: Ice Cream Skool

ICE CREAM SKOOL

As one of the first few ice cream shops in Tampines, residents of the East be familiar with them! The cafe is extremely popular with students so you can expect the cafe to be packed after school hours.

A single scoop of their ice cream costs S$3 while double scoops are going at S$5.80. Ice Cream Skool also rotates their ice cream flavours and come up with new creations on a frequent basis.

Now, we can see why they have been attracting those students after all!

Blk 445 Tampines Street 42, #01-10,
Singapore 520445
Tel: +65 6260 0842
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 12.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines East

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Photo Credit: Merely Ice Cream

MERELY ICE CREAM

Nestled within Our Tampines Hub, Merely Ice Cream is another ice cream parlour where you can satisfy your sweet cravings. For people familiar with the brand, yes, they are the same folks from the popular Merely Ice Cream at Sunshine Plaza.

Over there, their ice cream is made using natural ingredients. Known for their innovative creations, you shouldn’t be too surprised to see a spread of unique flavours on display.

51 Tampines Avenue 4, #B1-52
Our Tampines Hub
Singapore 529684
Tel: +65 6238 0890
Daily: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

Photo Credit: Laundry Gallery

LAUNDRY GALLEY

Started off as a 24-hour laundromat, Laundry Galley is the first laundry-themed cafe in Singapore that opened in September last year.

At Laundry Galley, they offer a Half-Half Waffle Set, consisting of classic & charcoal flavoured waffle. They even installed a live laundry tracking service in the cafe for customers to know the status of their washer in the laundromat.

Blk 201E Tampines Street 23, #01-118
Tampines New Town
Singapore 527201
Tel: +65 8700 7622
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 9pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Tampines East

Read: The ultimate guide to cafes in the east of Singapore – 31 cafes to explore.

Situated just a stone’s throw away from the ever-so-popular Blk 85 Fengshan Food Centre at Bedok North is a newly-opened carnival-themed café, Sir Stamford Waffles, which serves waffles, ice cream, coffee and more.

Do not be confused by the name of this café—Sir Stamford Raffles did not open this café—but rather, the people behind Hatter Street Bakehouse and Café did.

Essentially a carnival-themed café, Sir Stamford Waffles is well-furnished and boasts a bright and colourful interior with huge posters with whimsical illustrations on their walls. The space in the café was small and can fit just 4-5 groups of people, but they have seats outside too.

Sir Stamford Waffles bear great similarity to their sister café in terms of their range of desserts and coffee, but with a twist of local flavours, as their name suggests. Specialising in waffles, they offered several noteworthy signature waffle sets such as The Miraculous Merlion (S$15.90) and the Kopi Kusu (S$15.90).

They serve coffee and tea too, perfect for those just looking for something to sip on in Sir Stamford Waffles whilst escaping the glaring heat!

We opted for the Pulau Unikorn Signature Waffle Set (S$14 nett), which came with 2 signature waffles, 1 scoop of Lavender Blackberry Ice Cream, 1 scoop of Toasted Marshmallow Ice Cream and of course, unicorn accessories.

As they were out of the Toasted Marshmallow Ice Cream on our visit, we opted for the Strawberry Cheesecake flavour instead. Both the lavender blackberry and strawberry cheesecake flavours were delightful to have with the waffles, as they were neither overwhelmingly sweet nor sour.

The waffles were extremely crispy and light, but we would have preferred if the waffles had a more fluffy texture to it. However, the waffles were not too sweet, making it a great complement to the ice cream.

With plenty of cafés serving waffles with ice cream coming forth in Singapore, Sir Stamford Waffles does not stand out in any particular way.

We wouldn’t go all the way to Bedok for Sir Stamford Waffles, but should you be around the east of Singapore and looking for somewhere to curb your waffle and ice cream cravings, you can consider dropping by.

Sir Stamford Waffles
Blk 89 Bedok North Street 4 #01-91
Singapore 460089
Mon to Thu: 1pm – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 1pm – 12am
Tel: 97428895
Nearest Station: Bedok/ Bedok Reservoir

There is a new travel-lifestyle concept cafe in Singapore and it is none other than HyfeCafe—which just opened its doors in Tampines 1 this March 2018.

Ever wanted a conducive place to plan your trips with your friends? HyfeCafe it shall be. This cafe by Changi Recommends is a one-stop place for you and your travel buddies to plan your travels, book your attraction tickets and passes, purchase travel insurance and more—all while enjoying casual Asian-fusion fare!

HyfeCafe is Singapore’s first ever travel-lifestyle concept cafe where all your unanswered questions and/or planning woes will be solved. Cafe-hoppers and travel-lovers, this cafe has to be on your list.

TRAVEL CONCIERGE COUNTER

There is a travel concierge to make your trip-planning experience truly hassle-free. The staff will be glad to answer all your enquiries and guide you through your travel plans and provide you with more information!

Solve all your pre-travel needs at one go! On top of planning your trip, HyfeCafe also allows you to make bookings for products and services—including overseas attraction tickets, day tour packages, transport passes such as the Japan Rail Pass, and of course, their ChangiWiFi router.

But that’s not all. Besides the information counters and flyer wall, trip-planning just got a whole lot easier as HyfeCafe provides free tablet usage embedded with their booking system and it is free for all diners to use.

Be it a solo backpack trip, family holiday or a short getaway with your other half, all you have to do is to pick your favourite itinerary, key the code into the system, and you are halfway through planning!

Also, fret not if their curated itineraries are not to your liking. Select your preferred destination and customise your itinerary by replacing existing activities with those you are interested in and voilà, your dream-trip just came true.

TRAVEL PLANNING FLYER WALL

In addition to their incredibly easy-to-use TripPlanner device, diners can also feel free to refer to the cafe’s travel planning flyer wall that is filled with several travel brochures of which diners are free to grab and even take home.

Who knows? With such comprehensive tools to further aid you in your itinerary planning, planning your next trip will be a breeze!

PLAN YOUR TRIPS WHILE EATING

And you think you are going to sit down for hours to plan your trips without some perk-me-ups? That is not going to happen at HyfeCafe.

The travel cafe gives off the same cosy vibe you would typically derive from a cafe but make no mistake that their food speaks of a quality that goes far beyond your usual cafe fare. There is a menu with affordable restaurant fare from a fusion-focused array of offerings from hearty sides, mains, and decadent desserts worthy of the ‘gram’.

On the drinks menu, there is wide range of coffees, juices and tea by the pot at affordable prices. And we must say that coffee is pretty decent here! Pair your drinks with their wide range of Asian-fusion dishes. Cafe-hoppers will be glad to know that their menu is pretty reasonably priced.

TROPICAL FROGURT

You definitely have to try this house special. HyfeCafe created this concoction using their housemade yogurt. Flavoured with mango and passionfruit, this pretty much tastes like a Korean-style Calpis and it is the perfect summer drink!

WINGS OF THE EAST

These chicken wings—Wings Of The East (S$6.90)—absolutely stole our hearts. They were so flavourful that we just couldn’t stop at one! Choose from 3 different Asian-inspired sauces and spice—such as teriyaki soy, salted egg yolk sauce and curry honey.

SHARING PLATTERS

Can’t decide what appetisers to start with? The Sharing Platter (S$13.50 for 2, S$21.50 for 4) has a little of everything—from deep-fried calamari and popcorn chicken to tomato bruschetta and chicken sausages.

TERIYAKI SALMON UDON

Their Teriyaki Salmon Udon (S$14.90) is a crowd favourite. Accompanying the slightly sweet and chewy stir-fried udon is a huge slab of salmon that is cooked to perfection and generously doused in teriyaki sauce.

SALTED EGG FISH & CHIPS

Complementing the classic Fish & Chips is Singapore’s favourite golden salted egg yolk sauce. Nobody says no to this Salted Egg Fish & Chips (S$13.90) which goes well with their flavoursome salted egg yolk sauce and tangy mayonnaise served at the side.

SEAFOOD SQUID INK BAKED RICE

This is not your typical baked rice. The Seafood Squid Ink Baked Rice (S$10.90) sees a bed of fresh prawns, squid and mussels sitting atop squid ink rice. Baked with mozzarella, this value-for-money dish is a flavourful one that you must try.

GOLDEN WAFFLES 

And of course, no trip to a cafe is ever completed without desserts! HyfeCafe pairs their Golden Waffles (S$8.90) with a scoop of ice cream and we absolutely loved it.

Their waffles are super crispy on the outside which complements the fluffy interior, and together with their rich ice cream and fresh berries, this dessert will leave you satisfied and wanting to come back for more.

With HyfeCafe, both your trip planning and your travel journey will be an unforgettable experience. We all know that it takes a while to plan your dream trip, so do not worry if you can’t finish it all up in one sitting! There is an option for you save your itinerary, and send a PDF of it to your email. 

For those who are unable to find their ideal destinations or attraction places, HyfeCafe is constantly updating and adding new countries, cities and attractions to make your itinerary-planning experience better.

We reckon that we aren’t the only ones who find this travel-lifestyle concept cafe alluring, so why not head down to Tampines 1 today?

HyfeCafe
10 Tampines Central 1
#03-25 Tampines 1
Singapore 529536
Tel: +65 6572 5522
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

This post is brought to you by HyfeCafe.

If there is one thing to be envious about those who live in the East, it is their close proximity to some of the best cafes in Singapore.

As much as the rest of the population would hate to admit it, there is nowhere in Singapore where you are able to find such an extensive range of independent cafes, brew bars, ice cream parlours and dessert studios. In summary, the cafe scene in the east is nothing short of exciting—with new F&B projects and initiatives popping up every once in a while.

We’ve compiled a list of our favourite cafes in the east of Singapore and they range from artisanal cafes with deliciously bespoke blends and delectable brunches to casual hangout spots where eastsiders can drop by for their daily coffee run. Do let us know how many on the list you have been to!

BADOQUE CAFE

One Halal cafe in the east of Singapore to look out for is Badoque, a café with a piquant menu boasting of Asian, Greek and Mediterranean fare. Among the highlights are beef ribs, spaghetti, and donburi.

298 Bedok Road
Bedok Shopping Complex
Singapore 469454
Tel: +65 6446 6928
Sat to Thu: 12pm – 11pm
Fri: 3pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

BIRDS OF PARADISE BOUTIQUE

Situated along East Coast Road, Birds of Paradise Gelato Boutique is a delightful ice cream paradise that is highly popular on social media for its extremely photogenic interior and of course, its amazing ice cream.

Two flavours that got our attention were the Spiced Pear and Strawberry Basil. The former is a heavenly combination of William pears, cinnamon and star anise; the latter is a tarty melange of farmed and wild strawberries rounded off with the mellow tones of an organic basil infusion.

63 East Coast Road #01-05
Singapore 428776
Tel: +65 9678 6092
Sun, Tue to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Dakota

BLOCS INC.

How’s it if you can D.I.Y your own coffee and bread buns (like Shibuya toasts) with wooden blocks equipped with RFID tags?

Blocs Inc. is one cafe to look out for—the wooden blocks (or ‘blocs’ as they are called here) are all tagged and you can create your own coffee by placing the wooden blocks through a metal holder.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

60 Paya Lebar Road, #01-71
Paya Lebar Square
Singapore 409051
Mon to Thu: 7.30am – 8pm
Fri: 7.30am- 10pm
Sat & Sun: 9.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

BRAWN & BRAINS

Tucked away in the iconic former Singapore Badminton Hall, Brawn & Brains’s clean interior allows for ample natural light to stream in—making great Insta-worthy moments. Visitors can look forward to fresh bakes, coffee as well as savoury lunch options there.

As of 03 July 2017, the cafe has opened a new coffee kiosk at Guillemard Road so those who work in the neighbourhood has another option for their morning cuppa.

100 Guillemard Road
#01-02, Singpore Badminton Hall
Singapore 399718
Tel: +65 6348 8892
Tue to Fri: 8.30am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 9.30am – 6pm
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

BREAD & HEARTH

We cannot get the taste of the fresh croissants at Bread & Hearth out of our minds after we had it for the first time. The pastry was so crisp on the outside with just the right amount of buttery taste when bit into.

Other options that you can pick from artisanal bakery Bread & Hearth are brioche buns, cream cheese sesame buns and more.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

Katong V Level 2
30 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428751
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

BROTHERS IN FINE FOOD

Opened by the good folks behind Penny University, Brothers In Fine Food sits in the heart of the Tampines West residential cluster. The cafe mixes quality, creative interpretations of dishes with amazingly affordable prices, making it the perfect recipe for a tantalising yet comforting meal in neighbourhood spaces.

When you are there, do not forget to try their signature Beef with Beetroot Thyme Puree (S$15)—the meat was succulent, juicy, and cooked to the perfect tenderness.

5 Tampines Avenue 3
#02-07, Tampines West Community Club
Singapore 529705
Tue to Fri: 12pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 10.30pm
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Tampines

CAFE MELBA

Housed in a beautiful glass building, Cafe Melba is chic and stylish, without being overly pretentious. Their weekend brunch is very popular; they do not take reservations, so make sure you go early to get a table.

90 Goodman Road
#01-56, Block N
Singapore 439053
Tel +65 6440 6068
Mon to Fri: 10am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Aljunied

Photo Credit: Carry On Facebook

CARRY ON

Looking for a cafe to have afternoon tea with your girlfriends? Your squad will be spoilt for choice at Carry On. Specialising in pastries and desserts, Carry On makes a decent brunch spot with signature items such as French butter croissant and pan au chocolat and bagels as part of the menu.

If you are thinking of getting lunch there, your tummy should feel satisfied with their range of grill pressed wraps & sandwiches.

348 Tanjong Katong Road
Singapore 437115
Tel: +65 6348 2495
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat: 9am – 6pm
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Dakota

CHOCK FULL OF BEANS

A café that serves adorable 3D latte art, how cute is that? We found Chock Full of Beans sitting in a quiet corner of Changi Village (right next to the hawker centre), and were drawn towards the latte art that was on display.

If you’re there for a meal, Chock Full of Beans serves mains and desserts, too.

Blk 4 Changi Village Road, #01-2090
Tel: +65 6214 8839
Tue to Fri: 11.30am – 10.15pm
Sat & Sun: 9.30am – 10.15pm
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris

CRAFTSMEN SPECIALTY COFFEE

One of the more popular cafes in the East, Craftsmen Speciality Coffee at Siglap V has already garnered a strong following among locals and expats who reside in the hood.

The food menu is simple and it is made up of mainly all-day breakfast and brunch items like Croissant Sandwiches (S$15), Toast (S$5 – S$15), Pies (S$9.50 – S$12.50), as well as sweet and savoury Waffles (S$15).

2 First Street
Siglap #01-01
Sun to Thu: 8.30am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 8.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Kembangan

DUTCH COLONY COFFEE CO.

A coffee shop that started with a humble beginning at PasarBella, Dutch Colony Coffee Co. now has its own coffee roastery and academy at Defu Lane, as well as its new full-fledged cafe at Frankel Avenue.

Other than coffee, Dutch Colony Coffee Co. also serves a small selection of breakfast (S$5.50 – S$10), sandwiches (S$8 – S$14) and cakes on its menu.

113 Frankel Avenue
Singapore 458230
Tel: +65 6448 5852
Sun to Thu: 8am – 6pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Kembangan

FART TARTZ

If you’re looking for a café to grab Instagram-worthy pictures, Fart Tartz’s probably it.

The café first grabbed our attention with the rows of adorable-looking mudpies ($5.50 each) that look like potted plants and cakes in old-school glass jars, but there’s definitely more to it.

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#02-04, Hall 2
1 Expo Drive
Singapore 486150
Mon to Thu: 9am – 6pm
Fri to Sun: 9am – 8pm
Nearest station: Expo

FATCAT ICE CREAM BAR

FATCAT Ice Cream Bar isn’t just known for their perfect mojito spheres and range of artisanal ice cream, they also serve a mean plate of Charcoal Waffles with Salted Egg Yolk Sauce and salted caramel sauce (S$11.50 with a scoop of premium ice cream).

FATCAT Ice Cream Bar is also listed in our guide to the 12 Most Unique Waffles in Singapore.

Bedok North Avenue 2
#01-25, Block 416
Singapore 460416
Tel: +65 8201 1201
Mon, Wed to Thu: 1pm – 10pm
Fri: 1pm – 11pm
Sat: 12pm – 11pm
Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Tue: Closed
Nearest Station: Bedok

FRESH FRUITS LAB

No surprises here—Fresh Fruits Lab (FFL) is our favourite cafe in the east of Singapore. This has never changed since our first visit in 2015.

The themed cafe has seen a revamp recently and it is nothing short of amazing. Still keeping their core laboratory theme and incorporating fruits into their menu, FFL now boasts a colourful, pastel interior that is both whimsical and photogenic.

It has also become a kids-friendly dining outlet with a play corner for your little ones as well as a low-salt kids menu that is so reasonably priced.

351 Changi Rd, Singapore 419818
Tel: +65 6677 6741
Tue to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos/ Kembangan

GROUP THERAPY COFFEE

Fans of Group Therapy Coffee will no longer have to travel to the CBD area for their Roasted Almond Latte, for it now has a second outlet in the east of Singapore at Katong V.

The menu is slightly different from the original outlet at Duxton Road, but the idea is the same—good comfort food at affordable prices for the masses.

30 East Coast Road
Katong V #01-11
Singapore 428751
Daily: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Eunos/ Paya Lebar

NOM BISTRO & BAKERY

Quite possibly the first cafe to open in a community club, Nom Bistro & Bakery is a simple and no-frills cafe that serves homemade fare at inexpensive prices. Main courses include Beer Battered Fish & Chips (S$16.90) and The Ultimate Burger (S$14.90).

Nom is also known for its rainbow cakes which are available in oreo, salted caramel and chocolate flavours.

Level 1, Macpherson Community Club
400 Paya Lebar Way
Singapore 379131
Tel: +65 6747 3839
Mon, Wed to Sun: 11am – 11pm
Tue: Closed
Nearest Station: Macpherson/ Paya Lebar

PENNY UNIVERSITY

With an aesthetically pleasing interior, an all-encompassing menu and sumptuous cafe fare, Penny University is a must-visit cafe in the east of Singapore.

The cafe sources its own beans from local coffee roasters. The menu features a simple lineup of breakfast items and sandwiches.

402 East Coast Road
Singapore 428997
Tel: +65 6345 9055
Tue to Thu: 8.30am – 6pm
Fri & Sat: 8.30am – 10.30pm
Sun: 8.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Eunos/ Kembangan

PERCOLATE COFFEE

Established in March 2014, Percolate Coffee is a speciality coffee shop in the east of Singapore. Nothing overly pretentious or chi-chi about Percolate Coffee, it is a humble and cosy space for you to unwind over a cuppa and light music.

They do pretty decent latte art, and we love how the white cups sit against its wooden furnishing.

136 Bedok North Avenue 3, #01-152B
Singapore 460136
Tel: +65 8259 0316
Monto Fri: 10.30am – 9.30pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

RABBIT CARROT GUN

With a tongue-in-cheek name like Rabbit Carrot Gun, it is hard to not do a double take when you walk past this watering hole along East Coast Road.

Like its name suggests, Rabbit Carrot Gun does not take things too seriously. The menu is full of quirky dishes that fortunately turns out fairly well.

49 East Coast Road
Singapore 428768
Tel: +65 6348 8568
Mon: 11am – 4.30pm, 6pm – 9.45pm
Tue to Sun: 9am – 4.30pm, 6pm – 9.45pm
Nearest Station: Eunos/ Paya Lebar

REFUEL CAFE

Established in October 2014, Refuel Cafe provides residents in Bedok with another option for brunch and brew. With a simple but welcoming space, Refuel offers a comprehensive menu that is unpretentious and affordable.

The brew is pretty decent, and we’d do that stack of banana pancakes (S$9.90) anytime.

Blk 744 Bedok Reservoir Road, #01-3029
Singapore 470744
Tel: +65 6448 0015
Mon, Wed to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Tue: Closed
Nearest Station: Bedok

ROUTESIXTYSIX

Joining the bustling cafe scene in the east is Routesixtysix, a newly opened neighbourhood cafe that serves mainly delectable waffles, ice cream of many interesting flavours and a range of house brews.

The small yet cosy cafe is less than 10 minutes walk from Bedok MRT Station and is situated just across the street from FATCAT Ice Cream Bar.

#01-122
412 Bedok North Ave 2
Singapore 460412
Tel: +65 6241 4705
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Wed: Closed
Nearest Station: Bedok

SCOOP THERAPY

Scoop Therapy is a dessert-only spinoff of Group Therapy, serving mainly ice cream and ice cream-centric desserts in the east side of Singapore.

Located on the first floor of The Odeon Katong, there are two photogenic desserts that are worth traveling to the cafe for—S’mores, an imitation of the world-famous Frozen S’mores from Dominique Ansel Bakery and The Ice Cream Bomb which features two layers of choux puff sandwiching a generous scoop of Earl Grey Ice Cream.

11 East Coast Road
The Odeon Katong
Singapore 428722
Tel: +65 6247 9335
Tue to Thu: 2pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12 Midnight
Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Dakota

Photo Credit: Second Storey Cafe & Bar Facebook

SECOND STOREY CAFE & BAR

Tucked away on the second floor of a shophouse, Second Storey Cafe & Bar is a casual dining establishment with a welcoming interior that is suitable for family gatherings, couples going on a date and a meal with friends.

They have an excellent all-day brunch menu but you can also drop by for their pizzas and other western mains during dinner as well. Diners do not have to pay for service charge and GST over here!

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19 East Coast Road, #02-01
Singapore 428746
Tel: +65 6346 0042
Tue to Thu, Sun: 10am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 10am – 1am
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Eunos

SINPOPO BRAND

Run by the folks behind Awfully Chocolate, Sinpopo Brand is a nostalgic café along Joo Chiat Road and it encompasses everything a good cafe should be—welcoming and cosy, comforting local food with a twist, and exceptionally interesting desserts and drinks.

What Sinpopo Brand impressed us with the most is the attention to details and all its subtle nostalgic touches – evident from the interior and dishes.

458 Joo Chiat Rd
Singapore 427671
Tel: +65 6345 5034
Tue to Thu, Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12am
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Dakota

SIR STAMFORD WAFFLES

Situated just a stone’s throw away from the ever-so-popular Blk 85 Fengshan Food Centre at Bedok North is a newly-opened carnival-themed café, Sir Stamford Waffles, which serves waffles, ice cream, coffee and more.

Do not be confused by the name of this café—Sir Stamford Raffles did not open this café—but rather, the people behind Hatter Street Bakehouse and Café did.

Blk 89 Bedok North Street 4 #01-91
Singapore 460089
Mon to Thu: 1pm – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 1pm – 12am
Tel: 97428895
Nearest Station: Bedok/ Bedok Reservoir

Photo Credit: South Union Park Facebook

SOUTH UNION PARK

Replacing a French restaurant by the name of ‘Vis-à-Vis’, South Union Park at Kembangan has made a name for itself among residents in the east. The cafe takes pride in making their pasta and burgers in-house on a daily basis and portions are generous, to say the least.

Some crowd pleasers not to skip are the Poached Salmon, Carrot Risotto and Chicken Liver Pate.

101 Jalan Kembangan
Singapore 419139
Tel: +65 9061 8703
Tue to Thu: 5.30pm – 10pm
Fri: 11.30am – 10pm
Sat: 10am – 10pm
Sun: 10am – 9pm
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Kembangan

STAMPING GROUND COFFEE

Located along Upper East Coast Road, Stamping Ground Coffee shares the same space with a florist—Dawn Q Floral Design. The end result was unexpected; two inherently different businesses co-existing harmoniously in a single venue.

Stamping Ground Coffee’s all-day menu features 11 dishes and each dish costs no more than S$15 nett. Their Bacon Jam (S$14) features a thick fluffy brioche topped with candied bacon, rocket leaves and balsamic dressing. Knife the soft toast and unveil a baked egg.

87 Upper East Coast Road
Singapore 455223
Tel: +65 9070 7610
Tue to Fri: 8am to 6pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 6pm
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Bedok

THE COASTAL SETTLEMENT

The Coastal Settlement has been a favourite dining destination amongst hipster cafe hoppers and families alike.

The far-flung restaurant, located in the old barracks of Changi Beach, has drawn a crowd of regulars with its delicious food and attractive vintage furniture.

200 Netheravon Road
Singapore 508529
Tel: +65 6475 0200
Tue to Fri: 10.30am – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 12 Midnight
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris

Photo Credit: The Royals Cafe

THE ROYALS CAFE

This Halal-certified cafe is where you can find both Western and Asian cultures at one destination so do not be surprised to see Mee Siam, Braised Beef Cheek, Braised Lamb Shank & All-Day Breakfast options on the same menu.

On top of that, parents will also be keen to know that there is a lego play corner for kids so you get to take a well-deserved break and enjoy your meal in peace.

Crescendo Building
19 Upper East Coast Road
Singapore 455209
Tel: +65 6445 6457
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

TIAN KEE & CO.

Previously located at the old Dakota estate, Tian Kee & Co has reopened a new takeaway outlet at 46 Siglap Drive, serving popular cakes such as Ugly Nutella and Rainbow Cheesecake once again.

New gelato flavours include French Vanilla & Rose, Earl Grey Raspberry and Sea Salt Honey Lavender.

46 Siglap Drive
Singapore 456171
Tel: +65 6581 1580
Tue – Thu: 11am – 8pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10pm
Sun: 11am – 8pm
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Kembangan

TO-GATHER CAFE

Walk into To-gather cafe and you will notice that cursive writings of inspirational quotes and song lyrics fill up the walls in the most elegant manner. There is also a wall featuring post-it notes with messages and compliments penned down personally by customers.

The best part? Most of the main courses are affordably priced under S$12. To-gather Cafe is one place where you can have a good meal without breaking the bank.

Blk 84 Bedok North Street 4, #01-25/27
Singapore 460084
Tel: +65 6445 1011
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest stations: Tanah Merah/ Bedok

Read: the ultimate guide to 40 Cafes In The West Of Singapore You Must Visit.

No surprises here—Fresh Fruits Lab (FFL) is our favourite cafe in the East of Singapore. This has never changed since our first visit in 2015.

The themed cafe has seen a revamp recently and it is nothing short of amazing. Still keeping their core laboratory theme and incorporating fruits into their menu, FFL now boasts a colourful, pastel interior that is both whimsical and photogenic.

It has also become a kids-friendly dining outlet with a play corner for your little ones as well as a low-salt kids menu that is so reasonably priced.

How can a cafe make us fall in love so much? FFL always does it best. Here are some of our favourite dishes from its current menu. You need to bring your squad here for your next gathering!

So you think the cafe only looks pretty?

FFL has always been consistent with their food. No effort is spared to serving only the best—from their dedicated culinary team (most of the chefs have years of experience cooking and baking in top hotels in Singapore!) to the freshness of ingredients.

The menu goes beyond a typical cafe’s standards. It has a wide range of appetisers, salads, mains, desserts, coffee and juices; basically everything that attributes to a good meal. And as its name and theme suggest, FFL incorporates fruits as much as possible into everything for that healthy and refreshing touch.

FFL SIGNATURE FISH & CHIPS

If we had to pick only one dish to love at FFL, it would be their Signature Fish & Chips. Fish & Chips may sound boring but wait till you’ve tried FFL’s version!

For just S$19, you get a huge piece of beer-battered pacific dory fried to a golden perfection. As if the generous serving is not filling enough, it comes with a larger portion of fruits salad, a mountain of fries and homemade tartare.

This is comfort food for the soul, guys.

SOFT-SHELL CRAB PASTA

Also at S$19, this pasta is our favourite among the four choices on the menu.

Featuring a huge and crispy soft-shell crab sits atop al dente spaghetti, the Soft-Shell Crab Pasta is a slightly spicy rendition that is not for the faint-hearted. The chilli crab sauce is homemade, by the way.

FFL DA BOMB BURGER

Need your burger fix but don’t want your wallet to take a beating? The FFL Da Bomb Burger (S$19) will make your trip to FFL worth the while.

This beauty is everything a burger should be—juicy beef patty (200g) that is grilled to medium well, fresh romaine lettuce for the crisp,

SALMON STEAK

A healthier option for the ladies (and even the kids) is the Salmon Steak (S$26). This dish is set on fire (literally) as it is served to you and the end result is a sweet piece of pink salmon that boasts a subtle smoky flavour.

It is accompanied by asparagus purée, mashed carrots, arugula and a homemade grape sauce served in a cute onion cup! That is a fair bit of greens if your skinny jeans are getting a little tight but you still need good food in your life.

SPARKEY THE DOG

This is probably the cutest item on the kids’ menu. At only S$10, this is a pancakes dish that is prepared with low-salt bacon and ham. It is completed with fresh blueberries.

BOO-BOO BEAR

This is too cute, even the adults might not be able to resist the Boo-Boo Bear (S$13)!

And it tastes as good as it looks. We wouldn’t want to cut the bear up but the fried sweet potato cake is too yummy to pass. Stuffed with chicken, zucchini, mushroom and tomato, the sweet potato cake is wrapped with an egg—yes, the bear’s blanket.

LIGHTNING CARS

The perfect dish for your boys (or girls who love cars!), the Lightning Cars (S$12) is a simple yet hearty grilled chicken that is tender and flavourful despite the fact that no salt is used in cooking.

This chicken main is served with purple sweet potato purée and mixed fruit skewers for a more balanced meal.

CREEPY-CRAWLY

Fancy something more filling for the older kids? The Creepy-Crawly (S$13) is a wholesome tortilla wrap that is jam-packed with yummy smoked duck, onion, lettuce and carrots.

There is also a side of homemade fruit yogurt—blueberry, strawberry, granola, honey yoghurt.

ULTIMATE PEANUT BUTTER CHOC CAKE

FFL has a dedicated pastry chef and he bakes the prettiest French-style sweets. The one that we really love is the Ultimate Peanut Butter Choc Cake.

Priced at S$7.50, this decadent treat is our newfound guilty pleasure. Every mouthful of the dense cake is so rewarding; the taste of the rich peanut butter lingers on.

TEA BY LUPICIA INFUSED CAKE

For a lighter but no less satisfying cake option, this doll is your best bet. The Tea by Lupicia Infused Cake is also priced at S$7.50 and it totally reminds us of sweets we’d see in French patisseries.

The whiff of the aromatic tea will first enrapture you, and as you take a bite, you’d realize just how well balanced the sweet and bitter notes of the tea are.

EMERALD GREEN APPLE TEA

The Emerald Green Apple Tea (S$12) may not sound like much, but just wait until you see it in real life. Served in a test tube, the Emerald Green is made of butterfly pea tea, green apple juice and soda water. Get your phone ready and watch as the staff adds in edible dry ice for a mini explosion. We won’t spoil it for you; make sure you order the drink when you are at Fresh Fruits Lab!

COLOURED LATTES

Just when you thought coloured lattes are so gimmicky, you might want to consider trying FFL’s versions. These 4 pretty colours are all achieved using natural ingredients.

There is the Beetroot Latte which boasts a shocking shade of pink, the Sweet Potato Latte which is the gorgeous lavender-coloured cup, the Butterfly Pea Latte which spots a dreamy blue hue, and the Matcha Latte in the usual green.

Because zero artificial colouring is used for these lattes, you shouldn’t expect a super sweet cup with strong flavour notes. Instead, think good old latte with nuances of sweetness and aroma.

Fresh Fruits Lab
351 Changi Rd, Singapore 419818
Tel: +65 6677 6741
Tue to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos/ Kembangan

This post is brought to you by Fresh Fruits Lab.

There is a constant debate between the East-siders and the West-siders on which side of the island is the best. Growing up, you would have friends who live at the far ends of Singapore. Those who stay in the West whine whenever they need to travel to the East and vice versa. Making a trip to the other side of the island could almost be considered a day trip on its own.

East-siders believe that the East side is the best—and for good reasons. The East of Singapore is dotted with interesting hot spots and amazing food locations that are more than enough to make the West-siders jealous. Not convinced? Here are 15 Things To See, Do and Eat In The East of Singapore That Proves That The East Is The Best.

EAST COAST PARK

East Coast Park deserves to have an entire post of its own. Spanning across 185 hectare with a running track stretching 15km long, this is the ultimate hub for all things outdoorsy. Cycling, rollerblading, going on family runs—it all happens at this one park. We are pretty sure you have memories of the park as the ultimate chalet and barbecue spot for all your class outings. Yes, even you Westies.

Marine Cove within the park has just recently reopened after renovations, and now boasts amazing playgrounds and an expansive selection of restaurants. If East Coast Park is not the best park in Singapore, then what is?

East Coast Park
East Coast Park Service Road
Singapore 449876
Tel: +65 1800 471 7300
Daily: 24 hours
Nearest Stations: Eunos/ Kembangan/ Bedok

FACTORY OUTLET SHOPPING AT CHANGI CITY POINT

Changi City Point—one of our favourite shopping malls in the East of Singapore—is where you can find many factory outlet stores. Some of the popular shops include Adidas Factory Outlet, Nike Factory Outlet and Charles & Keith Factory Outlet.

GO FISHING AT MAINLAND TROPICAL FISH FARM

The #eastiekids would probably recall spending time at Mainland Fish Farm scooping up little guppies to keep as your own. You can also feed the koi fishes on site, and go prawning with some pals!

Shop around for aquarium accessories and more at the farm. This is one of the best chill- out spots in Singapore for some weekend fun.

Mainland Tropical Fish Farm
1 Pasir Ris Farmway 1
Singapore 519352
Tel: +65 6287 3883
Daily: 8.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris

FEAST ON THE BEST LAKSA IN SINGAPORE

Need we say more? Katong is one of the best spots in Singapore for some sinful albeit irresistible laksa. Case in point: 328 Katong Laksa.

328 Katong Laksa
53 East Coast Road
Singapore 428771
Tel: +65 9732 8163
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dakota

Photo Credit: The Business Times

TAKE TONS OF INSTAGRAMMABLE PICS AT JOO CHIAT ROAD

Joo Chiat Road is a conservation area in Singapore, situated between Geylang Serai and Marine Parade Road. The pastel-hued, old-world architecture of the protected Peranakan shophouses will transport you back in time, thus making it one of the more prettier photo spots in Singapore!

Besides providing endless photo opportunities, the road is also home to some great restaurants, eateries, and shops!

Photo Credit: Gallop Stables

GALLOP AROUND WITH HORSES

Situated in Pasir Ris Park, the Gallop Stable Pasir Ris offers public riding, where you can get upclose with a horse, and even feed their 13 resident ponies!

Gallop Stables
Pasir Ris Central, Pasir Ris Park
Singapore 829168
Tel: +65 6583 9665
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris

Photo Credit: NTUC Club

SPLASH AROUND AT WILD WILD WET

Let us not forget the place that all the 90’s kids looked forward to during outings with classmates and friends. Newer water parks around the island such as Adventure Cove in Resort World Sentosa may overshadow this rustic water park, but it is a place that all Easties (or Singaporeans in general for that matter) hold close to heart.

Wild Wild Wet is still up and operating, so if you want a little trip down memory lane, just hop on down to Singapore’s largest water park! The entry prices are also pocket-friendly.

Wild Wild Wet
1 Pasir Ris Close
Singapore 519599
Tel: +65 6581 9128
Mon to Fri: 1pm – 7pm
Sat, Sun & Public Holidays: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris

Photo Credit: Jeffrey and Flora

DINE AT EAST COAST LAGOON FOOD VILLAGE

Every Singaporean knows that East Coast Lagoon Food Village is one of the best places to visit for the best local dishes at reasonable prices. Char Kway Teow, Carrot Cake, Satay, and a plethora of seafood stalls. This food centre is a place we will always return to for classic Singaporean fare.

East Coast Lagoon Food Village
1220 East Coast Park
Singapore 468960
Tel: +65 6225 5632
Daily: 10.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

Photo Credit: dreamtravels4you

STROLL ALONG CHANGI POINT COASTAL WALK

This boardwalk is the ideal place to catch Singapore’s sunrise and sunset. It is tucked away in the western end of Changi Point, and gives visitors a breathtaking view of the coastline. The 2.2km-long boardwalk is well-lit and opens for 24 hours.

Changi Point Coastal Walk
7A Gosport Road
Singapore 509710
Daily: 24 hours
Nearest Station: Changi Airport

Photo Credit: Your Singapore

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN PERANAKAN CULTURE AT THE KATONG ANTIQUE HOUSE

This antique house educates visitors about the Peranakan culture, featuring pretty costumes, crockery, and furniture out for display. Mr Peter Wee, the friendly owner of the Katong Antique House and a fourth-generation Peranakan himself, is always more than happy to educate visitors on his Peranakan heritage.

Katong Antique House
208 East Coast Road
Singapore 428907
Tel: +65 6345 8544
Daily: 11am – 4.30pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

DIG INTO SOME LOCAL FARE AT SINPOPO

Founded by the people behind Awfully Chocolate, Sinpopo Brad can be found along Joo Chiat Road. Everything about the café screams ‘nostalgia’—from the types of food served, right down to the retro interiors and plating.

You can find vintage tiles, chairs, and even a menu that is remodeled after old school attendance books. One of Sinpopo’s specialties includes the Nasi Lemak Set For 2 (S$25), which comprises of a selection of ingredients to go with your rice.

Sinpopo Brand
458 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427671
Tel: +65 6345 5034
Tue to Thu, Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12am
Closed on Mondays
Nearest Station: Dakota

There are many other cafes in the Tanjong Katong and Joo Chiat precinct. Check out our guide here!

Photo Credit: Forest Adventure

COMPLETE ACTIVITIES AT FOREST ADVENTURE

The Forest Adventure Course at Bedok Reservoir Park is a great place to challenge yourself with their 35 obstacles courses in four different sites. Think climbing, swinging from tree to tree, and even ‘flying’!

There is also the Kids Course, which is excellent for your little tots to hang loose and have fun.

Forest Adventure
Bedok Reservoir Road
Bedok Reservoir Park
Tel: +65 8100 7420
Tue to Sun: 9.30am – 6pm
Closed on Mondays
Nearest Station: Tampines

DINE AND STAY AT RABBIT CARROT GUN

This café is set in a quaint refurbished shophouse and serves up classic dishes such as Eggs Benedict, burgers, and more.

Settled above the diner is The Rabbit’s Warren. It runs a bed and breakfast concept, with five luxurious suites that will take you back in time. No need to travel far for a quick little satiation!

Rabbit Carrot Gun and The Rabbit’s Warren
47 – 49 East Coast Road
Singapore 428768
Tel: +65 6348 8568
Nearest Station: Dakota

SHOP AT THE LARGEST IKEA IN SINGAPORE

Singapore only has two IKEA outlets—one along Alexandra Road and the other in Tampines. Easties would be proud to hear that the one on our turf is the largest one in Singapore. That could only mean more shopping, and more meatballs!

IKEA Tampines
60 Tampines North Drive 2
Singapore 528764
Tel: +65 6786 6868
Daily: 10am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris

CHANGI AIRPORT IS MERE MINUTES AWAY

Residents in the East enjoy commutes to Changi Airport! No expensive cab rides or hour-long train journeys. The airport is right on our very own turf. It is even convenient to just pop by for meals or study dates!

Changi Airport
Airport Boulevard
Tel: +65 6595 6868
Nearest Station: Changi Airport

Previously located at the old Dakota estate, Tian Kee & Co has reopened a new takeaway outlet at 46 Siglap Drive, off Frankel Avenue.

For those of you who are not familiar with Tian Kee & Co, it started as a local provision shop back in 1958 and it evolved into a bakery cafe at Dakota Crescent—one of Singapore’s oldest public housing estates. Unfortunately, the neighbourhood had to make way in late 2016 due to developments under Mountbatten’s estate renewal plans, and so did Tian Kee & Co.

Fans of the cafe will be happy to know that they will be serving their popular cakes such as Ugly Nutella and Rainbow Cheesecake. There will also be new gelato flavours including French Vanilla & Rose, Earl Grey Raspberry and Sea Salt Honey Lavender.

Before you get too excited, kindly note the new Tian Kee & Co serves only takeaway deserts and dine in for food and drinks are not available.

Tian Kee & Co
46 Siglap Drive
Singapore 456171
Tel: +65 6581 1580
Tue – Sun: 11am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Kembangan

The aesthetic appeal of Sinpopo Brand will first catch your eyes then lure you into the cafe. Then, it is the vintage-retro and laidback vibes that will charm you and entice you to take a seat.

With a menu of traditional local favourites with modern interpretations, Sinpopo Brand is an extremely charming retro café that sits amongst the many shophouses in Joo Chiat. It is one that never ceases to impress, both with its vibe and food.

Based on feedback from its regulars, Sinpopo Brand has introduced several new dishes and drinks which are more familiar with the locals. Now, let us discuss the dishes that are worth your calories and will make you want to visit the cafe.

OUR FAVOURITE KOPITIAM DRINKS SERVED IN THE FORM OF COCKTAILS

Fancy your morning glass of Teh-O Peng in a cocktail glass? Sinpopo Brand’s Special Teh-O Peng (S$5) doesn’t steer too far from what the classic “kopitiam drink” should taste like—sweet and dense in every sip. Sinpopo Brand has also added a subtle hint of pandan to give it a fragrant and stronger taste.

And when served in a cocktail glass? Yes, Instagram time.

If you enjoy grandma’s traditional brew of red dates and longan, you will come to love Sinpopo Brand’s Red Date & Longan Tea (S$5). Revitalising and packed with Vitamin C, this traditional speciality is served to you in a beautiful martini glas. Same same but different.

One word came to mind when our Gula Melaka Shake (S$8) was served to us: Chendol. The colour of the drink itself topped with chendol jelly and drizzled with Gula Melaka somehow screamed ‘local’s favourite’. We totally love the blend of sweet, fragrant gula melaka in coconut ice-cream.

We would expect the Gula Melaka Shake to be thicker in coconut flavour, but the Pandan Shake (S$8) came along with an even thicker coconut base. Just like a creamy pandan cake, the drink is rich in coconut and definitely a drink fit for all of you with a sweet tooth.

TWO NEW MAINS TO TRY

One of Sinpopo Brand’s tweaked recipes, Baked Cod with Dao Jio Crust (S$18), was originally termed ‘Baked Salmon’.

Now, instead of salmon, it is a thick slice of straight-from-the-oven cod sitting atop a bed of glass noodles. We were undeniably mesmerised by this gorgeous main dish that emerged from the kitchen.

The blend of glass noodles with the cod was well executed and the seasoning in the noodles gave the cod so much more flavour.

Curry Pai Kwuat (pork rib)—once a local favourite dish—is a delicacy you can hardly find in Singapore nowadays. Sinpopo Brand has brought back this famous Hainanese curry dish and tweaked it slightly to elevate it to the next level.

There is still the rich and robust curry that everyone is familiar with but what makes it better than the traditional dish is the use of premium pork ribs. Served with a side of steamed rice, egg and crispy potatoes which are first cooked in curry before being fried, the Curry Pai Kwuat (S$18) is one dish that you should not miss at Sinpopo Brand. Do note that it is available for a limited time only.

NEW BAKES WITH CALORIES WORTH GAINING

The Pandan Kaya Tart (S$7) is a soft and richly flavoured dessert that comes with a delectable crumbly crust. The curd is smooth and every bite screams nostalgia. You know, you really shouldn’t be too bothered about that new pair of skinny jeans you bought when you have something this good.

AND NOT FORGETTING SINPOPO BRAND’S SIGNATURE DISHES

The Nasi Lemak Set and Sliced Wagyu Horfan are some honourable mentions and you may want to try them if it is your first ever visit to Sinpopo Brand.

SINPOPO BRAND’S NASI LEMAK (FOR 2)

This is basically our local favourite with six side dishes. Steamed coconut rice is free flow and served with the house special har jeong kai wings (so damn good!), lam yu-marinated pork belly, luncheon meat crisps, rojak slaw and sambal fishballs.

At S$28 for this massive spread, your taste buds will be spoilt with an explosion of familiar flavours that will linger in your mouth (and mind) for a long, long time.

SINPOPO BRAND SLICED WAGYU HORFUN

Have you tried fried horfun? One of the cafe’s bestsellers is the Sliced Wagyu Horfun (S$18). It is tossed with tender wagyu slices, crispy garlic, sliced onions, spices and you can squeeze a little lime if you enjoy a bit of a sour finish.

Sinpopo Brand
458 Joo Chiat Rd Singapore 427671
Tel: +65 6345 5034
Tue to Thu, Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12am
Closed on Mon
Nearest Station: Dakota

This post is brought to you by Sinpopo Brand.

Joining the bustling cafe scene in the east is Routesixtysix, a newly opened neighbourhood cafe that serves mainly delectable waffles, ice cream of many interesting flavours and a range of house brews.

The small yet cosy cafe is less than 10 minutes walk from Bedok MRT Station and is situated just across the street from FATCAT Ice Cream Bar. Visitors can expect the cafe to start serving brunch items from May 2017.

We were first intrigued by the cafe’s unique name, which appears to be inspired from the famous Route 66 highway in the US. The interior reflects a modern industrial outlook complete with cement walls, exposed light bulbs and wooden furnitures.

We opted for the Red Velvet Waffle and two scoops of ice cream (S$12.90+). Routesixtysix uses wooden boards as plates for their waffles, adhering to the cafe’s theme.

Beyond its lovely presentation, we were impressed with the taste of the waffle as well. While the edges were crispy and break off with a crackle, the waffle interior was soft and warm.

The ice cream flavours we picked were Rocky Road and Honey Lavender. Rocky Road is a rich chocolate flavour which goes extremely well with the Red Velvet Waffle. On the flip side, Honey Lavender is a little too sweet for our liking.

Of course, the best companion to dessert has to be coffee! The cafe’s Hot Cappuccino (S$4.20+) was a delight. We enjoyed the bitter and creamy tones from the espresso and steamed milk.

Besides Red Velvet, other options include Buttermilk (S$5.90+) or Charcoal (S$6.90+) waffles. A scoop of ice cream for your waffle is S$3.

Routesixtysix
#01-122
412 Bedok North Ave 2
Singapore 460412
Tel: +65 6241 4705
Tue to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sun: 12pm – 11pm
Sat: 12pm – 12 Midnight
Nearest Station: Bedok

Situated along East Coast Road, Birds of Paradise Gelato Boutique is a delightful ice cream paradise that is highly popular on social media for its extremely photogenic interior and of course, its amazing ice cream.

A prominent face in the vibrant Katong food scene, you will find signature flavours of ice cream inspired by natural botanical elements in this humble parlour. 

Two flavours that got our attention were the Spiced Pear and Strawberry Basil. The former is a heavenly combination of William pears, cinnamon and star anise; the latter is a tarty melange of farmed and wild strawberries rounded off with the mellow tones of an organic basil infusion.

Apart from being extremely refreshing on the palate, the flavours of pear in the Spiced Pear were in perfect harmony with the acidity of the cinnamon and star anise. Likewise, the Strawberry Basil was incredibly light and had undertones of basil in its scent and taste.

At S$4.70 for a single scoop or S$7.70 for a double, this is a sweet deal for ice cream bursting with so much goodness and flavour. 

Other exciting flavours to look out for include the Pandan, Vanilla Fig Swirl, White Chrysanthemum, Lychee Raspberry, Mango Sorbet, Mint Cacao and Lemongrass Ginger.

Enjoy your ice cream in a cup or in their signature Thyme Cone with a top-up of S$1. The Thyme Cone is made from waffle batter with infusions of thyme and all cones are made in-house daily.

A charming ice cream parlour that offers interesting flavours in the East; we love this combination.

Birds of Paradise Gelato Boutique
63 East Coast Road #01-05, Singapore 428776
Tel: +65 9678 6092
Sun, Tue to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Dakota

Sinpopo Brand along Joo Chiat Road is one very outstanding retro cafe that we absolutely love visiting for they always have new ideas to surprise us on every visit.

Apart from its local-style menu, you will be filled with nostalgia with songs from the 60s and its old-school interior; Sinpopo Brand is truly a local gem that reflects Singapore’s past.

Gather some friends and have a lovely time chit-chatting over Sinpopo Brand’s new Weekday (Tue to Fri) Afternoon Tea Set at S$30+ for 2 pax, from 2.30pm to 5.30pm.

For our readers, quote “Ladyironchef” along with this post to receive a complimentary bottle of Sugee Biscuits (U.P. S$12+) OR Salted Egg Yolk Cookies (U.P. S$12+).

SINPOPO BRAND’S AFTERNOON TEA SET FOR 2 PAX

For S$30+, you and your afternoon tea companion get to enjoy a slice of Sugee Loaf Cake, a slice of Durian Pengat or Gula Melaka Cake, 1 Roasted Marshmallow with Salted Kachang & Gula Melaka Ice Cream, a serving of Gula Melaka Jelly, 4 pieces of Sugee Biscuits or Salted Egg Yolk Cookies, and choice of any 2 drinks (any coffee or tea).

That’s only S$15+ per person for a whole lot of treats if you think about it!

ROASTED MARSHMALLOW WITH SALTED KACHANG & GULA MELAKA ICE CREAM

You may know how gula melaka ice cream tastes like, but have you tried Gula Melaka Ice Cream encased in a roasted marshmallow and topped off with salted peanuts? With the sweetness from the fluffy marshmallow and saltiness from the peanuts, it felt like a wild party of flavours in our mouths.

This newly curated chilled dessert is definitely one to look out for!

DURIAN PENGAT

If you are a regular reader, you would know that the Durian Pengat at Sinpopo Brand is our weakness (or we have a soft spot for it). Now these guys have come up with a Durian Pengat Cake using that sinful homemade pengat, and it’s just so luscious. When we dug into its rich creamy pengat and pandan cake layers, we fell in love all over again.

Usually only available online, you can now try it with the limited tea set promotion!

GULA MELAKA CAKE

Do not despair if durian is not your calling because you can choose to have Sinpopo’s signature Gula Melaka Cake instead! You can see the distinct layers of gula melaka fudge in between thick slices of moist cake topped off with gula melaka glaze. Sinfully rich, this is one for the sweet tooth.

SUGEE LOAF CAKE AND GULA MELAKA JELLY

Reintroduced in a loaf cake version this Chinese New Year, the delightfully light, moist and fragrant Sugee Loaf Cake, made of Sugee, almond and browned butter, is best eaten with the generous portion of vanilla bean cream.

Just when we thought that the Gula Melaka Jelly might be overshadowed by everything else, it was surprisingly light and refreshing addition to the tea set. We liked having the jelly in between bites to alternate with the strong flavours.

TWO AROMATIC DRINKS OF YOUR CHOICE

Choose any coffee or tea from Sinpopo Brand’s menu with every order of the weekday Afternoon Tea Set.

Of course, we would pick the signature Sinpopo Teh Tarik Special and Kopi Peng because not only are these perennial favourites on the drinks menu, they are ever comforting. Nothing beats a good cup of Singapore-style teh and kopi, yes?

Other coffee selections on their drinks menu are Kopi Macchiato, Cappucino, Long Black and Flat White; while tea choices include Earl Grey, Turkish Apple, Roman Chamomile and so on.

SUGEE BISCUITS OR SALTED EGG YOLK COOKIES

Cookies at Sinpopo Brand are not to be overlooked. Trust us on this; we’ve had several bottles ourselves. These amazing bite-sized crumbly cookies are so addictive!

The Sugee biscuits bring along such a nostalgic taste with strong buttery notes, while the salted egg yolk cookies with curry leaves are a heavier option bearing the distinct saltiness that all of us love.

Do come down to enjoy Sinpopo Brand’s new Weekday (Tue to Fri) Afternoon Tea Set at S$30+ for 2 pax (U.P. S$46.50+) from 17 Jan 2017 to 28 Feb 2017, 2.30pm to 5.30pm, and remember to quote’ ladyironchef’ along with this post to receive a complimentary bottle of Sugee Biscuits (U.P. S$12+) or Salted Egg Yolk Cookies (U.P. S$12+).

Sinpopo Brand’s operational hours during Chinese New Year 2017:
27 Jan: 12pm – 5pm (only for CNY Hamper collection)
28 to 30 Jan: closed
31 Jan: 12pm – 10pm

Sinpopo Brand
458 Joo Chiat Rd
Singapore 427671
Tel: +65 6345 5034
Tue to Thu, Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12am
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Dakota

This post is brought to you by Sinpopo Brand.

Shared-space cafes are all the rage right now and we are seeing east-side cafe Stamping Ground Coffee adopting this genius concept at its new location in the Siglap neighbourhood.

Located along Upper East Coast Road, Stamping Ground Coffee shares the same space with a florist—Dawn Q Floral Design. The end result was unexpected; two inherently different businesses co-existing harmoniously in a single venue.

Stamping Ground Coffee—formerly situated at Club Street—is characterised by its minimalistic décors; think white marble counters and rustic wooden chairs. You can choose to dine either indoors or outdoors.

There are a few car park lots located right outside the café and parking is absolutely free of charge. However, do note that the lots are very limited.

From local brand Papa Palheta’s Throwback Blend to Melbourne’s Rumble Coffee Roasters, each coffee run to Stamping Ground Coffee is never quite the same. Blends are on a rotational basis and you can look forward to a different roast from time to time.

Pick up a signature cold brew (between S$6 – S$8 nett) or enjoy a cappuccino (S$5 nett).

Stamping Ground Coffee’s all-day menu features 11 dishes and each dish costs no more than S$15 nett. Their Bacon Jam (S$14 nett) features a thick fluffy brioche topped with candied bacon, rocket leaves and balsamic dressing. Knife the soft toast and unveil a baked egg.

Those with a sweet tooth should order the Belgian Waffles (S$13 nett) instead. The waffle is served with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. Generous amounts of roasted soybean flour and corn flakes are sprinkled over it.

Stamping Ground Coffee
87 Upper East Coast Road
Singapore 455223
Tel: +65 9070 7610
Closed on Mondays
Tue to Sun: 9am to 6pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

Brothers In Fine Food, a new cafe open in Tampines West Community Centre, is opened by the good folks behind Penny University.

The space sits in the heart of the Tampines West residential cluster and it is definitely one of the new cafés in Singapore that you should not miss out on.

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Brothers In Fine Food mixes quality, creative interpretations of dishes with amazingly affordable prices, making it the perfect recipe for a tantalising yet comforting meal in neighbourhood spaces.

Opened just a few weeks ago in November 2016, Brothers In Fine Food is the perfect place to be at for a peaceful solo lunch, or a casual get-together with friends after work.

Do not be fooled by Brothers In Fine Food’s seemingly small interiors. Their creative menu innovations give the saying ‘tiny but mighty’ new meaning. Case in point: the Beef Steak.

The beef sits in a pool of bright pink beetroot purée, which adds an unexpected yet welcome sweetness to the otherwise regular beef steak. The meat is succulent, juicy, and cooked to the perfect tenderness, while the beetroot purée is both creamy and tangy.

We found ourselves wiping the purée off the plate even after we were long done with the steak. The best part about this dish: it is available at just S$13.50. What is there not to love?

For desserts, the Greek Yoghurt Panna Cotta (S$8) is a good shout. The homemade honeycomb crunch, fruits and lavender honey lends the dish a balanced mix of soft, milky, crispy and fragrant all at once. It was a treat for the senses to say the least.

The poached pears that came with the panna cotta was also cooked to just the right texture – crunchy and sweet to taste. It made a great pairing with the greek yoghurt panna cotta.

As is expected, Brothers In Fine Food also offers a range of coffee for your daily caffeine dosage. We got a regular latte which costs just S$5.50. It was just what the doctor ordered to complement the entire meal.

Brothers In Fine Food
5 Tampines Avenue 3
#02-07, Tampines West Community Club
Singapore 529705
Tue to Fri: 12pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 10.30pm
Closed on Mondays
Nearest Station: Tampines

The East of Singapore is where one will find plenty of hidden treasures. While there are many concept cafes out there, To-gather Cafe in Bedok (next to Fengshan Market) is one gem where you can unwind from work.

Walk into the cafe and you will notice that cursive writings of inspirational quotes and song lyrics fill up the walls in the most elegant manner. There is also a wall featuring post-it notes with messages and compliments penned down personally by customers.

Inspired by an all-time favourite childhood song “The More We Get Together”, the owners of To-gather cafe aims to create a homey ambience concept where people gather together over a good meal and artisan coffees. The cafe offers delectable signature dishes and the most flavourful desserts to end your meal with.

The best part? Most of the main courses are affordably priced under S$12. To-gather Cafe is one place where you can have a good meal without breaking the bank.

GRILLED TENDERLOIN OF BEEF

We are mentioning this dish first because everyone agreed unanimously that this was the best.

Everything about the Grilled Tenderloin of Beef (S$24.90) just clicked together—the soft tenderloin steak grilled to pinkish medium rare doneness, with an addictive black pepper sauce and fragrant truffle oil, complete with mash potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

BRAISED BEEF PASTA

If having a beef steak is too much for you, go for the Braised Beef Pasta (S$11.90). We enjoyed the warm creamy spaghetti jazzed up with colourful bell peppers, button mushrooms and caramelised onions. The star ingredient of this pasta dish is the slow braised beef brisket. We always appreciate the flavours of a long simmered sauce; rich, aromatic and very tender.

The star ingredient of this pasta dish is the slow braised beef brisket. We always appreciate the flavours of a long simmered sauce; rich, aromatic and very tender.

PORK CORDON BLEU

The Pork Cordon Bleu (S$11.90) at To-gather Cafe is coated with a crispy crust of bread crumbs and we were greeted by a generous portion of ham and cheese stuffing when we pulled the pork loin apart.

It is important that the chef has the skills to ensure that the top layer has been deep fried to form a crispy casing, while the meat inside remains juicy. We are glad to say that the one at To-gather Cafe is worth trying. The Pork Cordon Bleu comes with fries and fresh salad drizzled over with light mustard sauce.

GRILLED PANDAN CHICKEN CHOP

Chicken chop may be a common item on most menus but Pandan Chicken Chop? Now that’s something we have to mention. The folks at To-gather Cafe have reinvented what used to be a run-of-the-mill food item into an interesting dish you cannot help but notice.

The marinated grilled chicken chop (S$9.90) is marinated with, of course, pandan and doused in a light coconut sauce. To spice things up a little more, a spoonful of pineapple salsa—made from scratch within the premises—is placed atop the chicken chop.

This is something the older folks can try if you are planning to visit with your family!

ARTISANAL COFFEE AND DESSERTS

The baristas at To-gather cafe have the usuals to serve you—Caffe Latte (S$4.20) and Cappuccino (S$4.20); and if you are more inclined towards tea, try the Matcha Latte (S$5.20). If you do not know, yes, Matcha Latte has no coffee in it.

You know what is the one dessert that got all of us swooning? The Homemade Hojicha Swiss Roll with Thick Hojicha Shot (S$5.90), a new item that is launched earlier this month. The idea of serving the dessert with a shot of Hojicha Latte is so that you can take sips in between bites because Swiss rolls tend to be dry; yes, we were so incredibly impressed by this “little touch”.

By the way, the Hojicha used for this dessert is made of premium Hojicha powder imported directly from Japan!

To-gather Cafe’s Matcha Lava Cake with Vanilla Gelato (S$7.20) has been making its rounds on Instagram in the last two years. It comes with a distinctively rich matcha flavour and a single scoop of vanilla gelato,

Come November 2016, To-gather Cafe will be celebrating its third birthday! And in conjunction with their birthday celebrations, they will be returning to society by donating a part of their proceeds to a social enterprise that provides clean water for rural communities.

Bring your family and friends over to this nostalgic cafe for a meal in the heartlands. After all, this is what To-gather Cafe is all about—the more we get together, the happier we’ll be!

And while you are at it, don’t forget to check out all the murals on the wall! They are done by local artists and it does not hurt to have a photo or two of it on your Instagram account!

To-gather Cafe
#01-25/27
84 Bedok North Street 4
Singapore 460084
Tel: +65 6445 1011
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

This post is brought to you by To-gather Cafe.