Seeing how we are stuck with this unforgiving weather all year round, it’s no surprise that many of us are on the perpetual search for new places to get our ice cream fix in Singapore. This time, our search has led us to Mingle Mangle, an ice cream parlour nestled at the edge of Hougang that scoops up a selection of classic and unique ice cream flavours.

At Mingle Mangle, there are more than 10 waffle flavours for you to choose from. Think dark chocolate, peanut butter, black sesame or even super spicy chilli and chicken cutlet – we were obviously spoilt for choice! Unfortunately, we only had room for one waffle so we went for the Matcha Waffle (S$6.50).

Crispy and airy, we were impressed at how fragrant the waffle was. Not only did the inside of the waffle have the distinct matcha green colour, but the overall flavour also stayed true to what matcha is supposed to taste like as well: bitter and earthy.

We paired our waffle with a Double Scoop (S$6.60) of Honey Cornflakes and Mud Slide. The former was delightfully sweet with cornflakes that were a bit soggy while the latter was decadent and rich. We appreciated how the ice creams at Mingle Mangle were not cloying and did not melt that fast too.

We also sampled the Chilli Crab and Hainanese Chicken Rice flavour. While they were well-executed, we were not adventurous enough to have a whole scoop of it. Those who have exotic taste buds should definitely make a trip here to try these interesting flavours.

476 Upper Serangoon View
#02-07 Hougang Capeview
Singapore 530476
Tel: +65 9727 6111
Mon, Wed to Fri: 1pm – 10pm
Sat: 12pm – 11pm
Sun: 12pm – 10pm
(Closed on Tuesday)
Nearest Station: Hougang / Buangkok

Photo Credit: Hougang Mall

In the North-East district, most are familiar with this suburban mall in Hougang that is well-connected to Hougang Bus Interchange and Hougang MRT station. The mall is compact but houses an array of dining and shopping options all packed within six levels. There is even a library that occupies the third level.

From snack kiosks, fast food eateries, casual dining spots and even restaurants, family-friendly Hougang Mall has quite the variety. Whether you are looking for a quick bite, a fuss-free takeaway or a proper meal with your loved ones, there are options for everyone.

Use this handy Hougang Mall Food Directory to easily determine your preferred dining choice. There is no time to waste when it boils down to satisfying those hunger pangs!

BBQ EXPRESS
#B1-K8 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6387 1028
Daily: 10am – 10pm

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BEE CHENG HIANG
#B1-20 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6385 3938
Daily: 10am – 10pm

BENGAWAN SOLO
#B1-05 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6489 0128
Daily: 10am – 10pm

CRAVE
#B1-11 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6384 7863
Daily: 10am – 10pm

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DAUN PANDAN RICE DUMPLING
#B1-K6 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6385 1197
Daily: 10am – 10pm

DEN AJISEN RAMEN
#01-26/27 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6343 4229
Daily: 10am – 10pm

DESSERTSTORY
#02-18 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6387 6620
Daily: 10am – 10pm

ENG’S WANTAN NOODLES
#01-42/43
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 9859 0214
Daily: 10am – 10pm

FOUR LEAVES
#B1-21 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6425 8421
Daily: 10am – 10pm

GONG CHA
#B1-14/15 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Daily: 10am – 10pm

HO KEE PAU
#B1-K10 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6386 6537
Daily: 10am – 10pm

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HOCKHUA HERBAL TEA
#B1-13 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6387 3662
Daily: 10am – 10pm

HOONG WOH TONG
#B1-22/23 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6337 3318
Daily: 10am – 10pm

ICHIBAN SUSHI
#02-23 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6386 7836
Daily: 11am – 10pm

JUEWEI
#B1-12 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Daily: 10am – 11pm

KFC
#01-19 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6385 3325
Daily: 8am – 11pm

KOI THÉ
#01-15 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6343 4234
Daily: 10am – 10pm

LONG JOHN SILVER’S
#B1-27/28 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6386 0385
Daily: 7.30am – 10pm

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MCDONALD’S
#01-17 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6387 3162
Daily: 6.30am – 12am

MEI SHI KE BY KOPITIAM
#04-10 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6337 2066
Daily: 7am – 10pm

MOS BURGER
#04-10 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6337 2066
Daily: 10am – 10pm

MR BEAN
#B1-13A Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6489 7306
Daily: 7am – 10pm

MUGIYA
#B1-08 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6386 3937
Daily: 10am – 10pm

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NINE FRESH
#B1-K11 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 9880 9048
Daily: 10.30am – 10pm

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OLD CHANG KEE
#01-39 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6303 2306
Daily: 10am – 10pm

OLD STREET BAK KUT TEH
#02-22 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65
Daily: 10am – 10pm

PEPPER LUNCH
#B1-24/25/26 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6387 2800
Daily: 11am – 10pm

PEZZO
#01-20A Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6384 9093
Daily: 10am – 10pm

PIZZA HUT
#02-25 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6284 5643
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm

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POLAR PUFFS & CAKES
#B1-K9 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6385 7767
Daily: 8.30am – 10pm

QI JI
#01-41 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6387 9277
Daily: 7.45am – 10pm

SAIZERIYA
#02-24 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6243 5927
Daily: 10am – 10pm

SOUP RESTAURANT
#02-21 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6386 6188
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Sat to Sun, PH: 11.30am – 10pm

STARBUCKS
#02-11&19 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6343 7416
Daily: 8am – 10pm

STUFF’D
#01-38 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Daily: 10am – 10pm

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SUBWAY
#02-10 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6386 6624
Daily: 8am – 10pm

SUSHI EXPRESS
#04-10A Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6592 2832
Daily: 10am – 10pm

TAI CHONG KOK
#B1-04 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6227 5701
Daily: 10am – 10pm

TOAST BOX
#B1-29/K12-15/K17 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 6686 6401
Daily: 7.30am – 9.30pm

WOK HEY
#01-40 Hougang Mall
90 Hougang Avenue 10
Singapore 538766
Tel: +65 9144 6336
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm

Kovan is hardly anyone’s first thought when it comes to an enclave for good food. But this charming little neighbourhood is one that is brimming with hidden gems.

From a German bistro with outstanding pork knuckles and cheap beer to a Japanese eatery that boasts a wide selection of authentic Japanese street eats, and sake, Kovan has got it all.

Kovan is a food heaven that more people need to know about. Here is our guide to 12 restaurants, cafes and eateries in Kovan to dine at.

LOLA’S CAFE

If you’re a fan of brunch and breakfast food, head to Lola’s Cafe for a visit! Just don’t go during peak periods over the weekend, as you might end up waiting up to an hour for your food. Their Honey and Paprika Crispy Chicken Wings are also extremely addictive, and worth the extra side order.

5 Simon Road
Tel: +65 6343 1808
Tue: 3pm – 11.30pm
Wed & Thu: 10am – 11.30pm
Fri to Sun: 10am – 12am
Nearest Station: Kovan

ICE EDGE CAFE

Located in the heart of Kovan—just a stone’s throw away from Kovan MRT Station—is Ice Edge Cafe.

The cafe-cum-restaurant has been around for a decade and has gained a huge following with its hearty savories and stellar sweets. Dishes served here are very affordable and generously portioned; there is even a perpetual one-for-one lunch promotion* on weekdays

2 Kovan Rise
Simon Plaza, #01-10
Tel: +65 6858 5729
Daily: 11.30am – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

GONPACHI RAMEN

If you’re looking for good quality ramen at wallet-friendly prices then look no further.

Gonpachi Ramen is a family restaurant located in Kovan that specialises in authentic ramen soaked in a collagen broth that is imported directly from Japan. The chef blends the broth carefully to better suit our local palates.

Standouts include the Smoked Duck Chashu Ramen (S$7.80) and the Seven Wonder Ramen (S$7.80) that comprises of 7 different toppings.

212, Hougang Street 21
#01-329
Tel: +65 6584 1943
Sun to Thu: 11.45am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11.45am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10.45pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

KNUCKLES BAR & BISTRO

Knuckles Bistro is a German bistro that serves up affordable (and tasty) mains. This is a venue for lovers of pork knuckles and German beer.

For only S$10, you get a decent portion of crispy pork knuckle, sauerkraut, and mashed potatoes. For what it’s worth, this is dirt cheap compared to many other similar bistros, and to top it all off, their beers are priced reasonably too ranging from S$5 to S$10.

212 Hougang Street 21
#01-33
Closed on Mondays
Tues to Sun: 5.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

HATTER STREET

This bakery cafe is designed with a Mad Hatter theme, a prime character from Alice In Wonderland. Adorned with a whimsical theme that is set to bring you on a trip to Wonderland itself, Hatter Street deserves a special mention for their Whoaffles (S$8.90) with your preferred choice of ice cream and syrup.

212, Hougang Street 21, #01-333
Tel: +65 6988 4591
Tues – Sun: 1PM – 10PM
Closed on Mon
Nearest Station: Kovan

TACHINOMIYA

Tachinomiya is a quaint Japanese bar that serves up Japanese street food and a variety of Japanese sakes and beers. From yakitori to sashimi, you will be surprised at how much this little hole in the wall can conjure up.

Tachinomiya opens till late on most days which is always great for an evening tipple.

211 Hougang Street 21
#01-285
Tel: +65 6286 0738
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 12am
Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 1am
Sat: 5.30pm – 2am
Sun: 11.30am – 12am
Nearest Station: Kovan

NAKHON KITCHEN

Hougang Street 21 has seen lots of new dining establishments popping up over the years. The most popular by far is Nakhon Kitchen, a humble Thai restaurant.

During dinner time, you may find yourself queuing for over half an hour! The food here tastes like legit Bangkok street food, and to further boost its authenticity of the eatery, most of the staff are Thai too.

12 Hougang Street 21
#01-341
Tel: +65 6286 8785
Closed on Wednesdays
Mon to Sun: 12pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm

HANSIK KOREAN RESTAURANT

Situated on level 2 of Heartland Mall is a small family restaurant that specialises in authentic Korean fare called Hansik Korean Restaurant. For a small place, their menu is pretty extensive; from stews to real-deal barbecue. Their seafood soybean paste stew is a must-try for first timers.

205 Hougang Street 21
Level 2, Heartland Mall
Tel: +65 6288 2448
Mon to Fri: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 3.30pm, 5pm – 10pm

IVINS NYONYA SPECIALTIES 

IVINS Peranakan Restaurant at Binjal Park has been dishing out affordable Nyonya food to its loyal customers for years. For folks living in the Kovan neighbourhood, you can head to IVINS Nyonya Specialties at Heartland Mall.

While IVINS Nyonya Specialties has received mixed reviews—the standard has deteriorated slightly over the years—it is still a place that we go to for authentic Peranakan food.

205 Hougang Street 21
Level 2, Heartland Mall
Tel: +65 6288 7922
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

TIAN WAI TIAN FISH HEAD STEAMBOAT

Our favourite fish head steamboat restaurant in Singapore, Tian Wai Tian Fish Head Steamboat offers excellent Fish Head Steamboat as well as a wide variety of zi char favourites such as the highly acclaimed Salted Egg Yolk Pork Ribs and Prawn Paste Chicken.

203 Hougang Street 21
#01-12
Mon to Fri: 11am – 2pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 4.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

888 MOOKATA

Founded by local celebrities Chew Chor Meng and Zhou Chongqing in partnership with cousins Esmond and Ronnie, 888 Mookata—at the coffee shop in Blk 212 Hougang Street 21—is a new 2-week old Mookata restaurant and the latest addition to the Mookata scene in Singapore.

Ordering is relatively straightforward at 888 Mookata as they only have 2 options on their main menu—Platter For 2 (S$26) and Platter For 4 (S$45).

888 Mookata
212 Hougang Street 21
Singapore 530212
Tel: +65 9656 2655
Daily: 5pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Kovan

For more recommendations, read our guide on 15 Best Cafes in Serangoon and Kovan.

Hougang has never been known to have a bustling cafe area, but Flavour Flings – located in the heartland neighbourhood of Hougang Avenue 1 – brings an interesting fresh face in to the neighbourhood. Flavour Flings offers a whole list of brunch menu items, with a lot of interesting dishes featuring eggs as its centrepiece.

What earned our initial nod of approval was the homely and inviting cafe space that made us feel right at home. As we sipped on cooling drinks such as Iced Chocolate (S$6.50) and Iced Darjeeling Tea (S$5), a sense of comfort greeted us.

If you are a coffee-drinker, you need not be apprehensive because we can assure you that their freshly brewed coffee is up to standard. Flavour Flings is just about the cosiest cafe in Hougang.

If you choosing light bites over a full meal, a must-try option is the Beef Chilli Fries (S$9.90). The crispy piping hot fries, coupled with flavourful beef chilli generously slathered on top, was a clear winner that all of us agreed on.

What also earned our stamp of approval is the variety of all-day-breakfast and brunch menu items. These include – Marie’s Baked Eggs, Jupiter Eggs and Truffle & Mushroom Pasta. The latter also includes a a beautifully poached egg perched atop the pasta.

Whether you’re at Flavour Flings alone or in a big group, the cafe is a great choice for simple and hearty meals, without bearing a ridiculous price tag.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn 2 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.

Flavour Flings
Blk 121 Hougang Avenue 1
#01-1348
Singapore 530121
Tel: +65 6286 0051
Mon, Wed to Fri: 11am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Hougang/Kovan

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.