Over the past few years, we’ve seen more and more heartland cafes pop up and even so in industrial office areas such as Tai Seng. What you may not know is that Tai Seng houses some of the most interesting local cafe gems and they are just waiting for you to explore.
We can ensure that these 5 cafes are worth travelling to as they are all located within walking distance from Tai Seng MRT Station. If you are unfamiliar with the area, here is our guide to the Must-Try Cafes in Tai Seng.
Some months back, we visited Sunday Market at Lim Tua Tow Road located just off Upper Serangoon Road on a sleepy Sunday afternoon for brunch. We were not expecting much, but what greeted us was a wondrous entrance of plants and a red-and-white signboard that looks like something plucked off from the 80′s. The cafe may seem inconspicuous from the main road, but just look out a little and you will find the unit that sits right at the left hand corner.
Another neighbourhood gem that has been around in the East is Percolate Coffee at Bedok, and we only visited recently. But never too late, because now that we have fallen in love with it, we will definitely come back when we find ourselves in the neighbourhood.
A few years ago, the idea of cafes opening at residential neighbourhoods was simply farfetched and almost impossible. Fast forward to today, cafes are sprouting in these unassuming neighbourhoods – mainly because of cheaper rental – and we are certainly not complaining because everyone has its own charm and they are lovely and cosy in their own rights.
Here is a guide to 21 cafes that have opened in the quaint residential neighbourhoods around Singapore.
Like going back in time and stepping in to an old Singapore; so surreal, with hints of nostalgia.
Tian Kee & Co is nestled within the old estate of Dakota, and its rural setting exudes an old charm that is so rare in the present Singapore. When we first drove past the unassuming block of low-rise flats, we saw a lovely sight – simple but traditional-looking monochrome signboard, wooden high table and seats, and ceiling fans. We knew we were going to like this retro concept.
The Tastemaker Store is like a mix of new and old. Sitting within the old estate of Bukit Ho Swee, it is a clean space that is well-utilised and furnished with a very understated flare. Long lamps and potted plants hanging from the ceiling spell the character of the cafe, and light retro tracks fill the lovely space with a comforting touch of the 70s.
The Provision Shop at the charming Everton Park neighbourhood is a casual eatery that is opened bt Cocotte’s head chef, with hotelier Loh Lik Peng taking a consulting role in the project. We love the vibe of the cafe, and we love that it serves simple yet delicious meals at affordable prices.
Everton Park is quickly becoming the latest it neighbourhood. Some call it the new Tiong Bahru, and it is not difficult to see why. Since Nylon Coffee Roasters and Grin Affair started here in 2012, this quiet HDB neighbourhood has been drawing foodies to explore the area.
Today, there are eight cafes in this enclave, and we won’t be surprised if more cafes and shops choose to open here in the future. You know that Everton Park is officially cool when hotelier Loh Lik Peng – who is behind many boutique hotels and restaurants in off-the-radar neighbourhoods – has also helped to set up a cafe here.
Here is our guide to the Everton Park neighbourhood.