The cafe scene in Singapore is saturated with a plethora of cafes that more or less serve up grub that’s pretty mainstream, namely typical brunch items such as eggs Benedict, french toast, granola bowls and the likes. Newly-opened Kafe Utu, however, stands out from the crowd.

Proudly proclaiming themselves Singapore’s first Afro-themed cafe, they dish out brunch-style classics underscoring heavy influences from African cuisine that are sure to trump your typical eggs and toast any day. Aside from that, they also brew seriously good coffee.

Upon entering, we were blown away by the gorgeous, rustic interior of the cafe. Period.

The place has a modern African theme going on and is beautifully furnished with wooden counter tops, metallic fittings, warm colours and breathtaking paintings.

Our first order of business was the Utu Plate (S$18). This colourful ensemble features two slices of sourdough toasts that were topped with marinated goat cheese, cumin roasted tomato, raw garlic, curried avocado, arugula and a side of butter and jam.

The idea of eating raw garlic doesn’t really sound that appetising but surprisingly, it worked. It also added a nice sweet yet spicy flavour to the mix and really complemented the creaminess of the curried avocado.

From the Mama Africa section of the menu, which features some of their more traditional African dishes, we had a go at their Swahili Fish Curry (S$29). The curry consists of tender slices of red snapper fillets and coconut rice that was doused in a sauce made from tamarind, coconut milk, house curry paste and habanero.

The curry packs a punch and massive amounts of flavour without being overly spicy.

A visit to Kafe Utu would be a wasted trip if you left without trying a Mandazi, which is a classic African fried bread that originates from the Swahili Coast. These doughnut-like treats have a sweet and slightly savoury taste to it which make them incredibly addictive to munch on.

The ones here were also sprinkled with a generous amount of coconut flakes and cardamom, which added a subtle sweetness and spiciness to the bread.

Red Holic is where lovers of Korean food can settle in for some of the tastiest tteokbokki around. Helmed by the same folks behind Super Star K, this cosy joint boasts a myriad of home-style Korean stews, dumplings and other tasty delights that go well with beer or soju.

Red Holic specialises in comforting Korean food in the likes of classic tteokbokki, ramyeon and Korean street snacks. While their menu is pretty selective, this Korean eatery does make for a nice pit stop for a quick snack on the go or for your friends and yourself to retire to over drinks after a hard day’s work.

Kick start your meal with one of Red Holic’s Giant Mandus (Korean dumplings). Red Holic serves a selective variety of this classic Korean street snack at a relatively affordable price per piece.

We opted for the Giant Kimchi Mandu (S$1.80++ per piece) and each piece came steaming hot and stuffed with generous amounts of kimchi, minced pork and glass noodles.

While the variety of textures, flavours and tongue-tingling heat surprised us in some way, we would have much preferred if it was less dry.

If you are tired of drooling over the Jjajangmyeon you often see in Korean dramas, hop over to Red Holic and order up a portion of Jjajang Tteokbokki that will satisfy any of such cravings.

The Crispy Chicken Jjajang Tteokbokki (S$27.80++) comes with Korean ramyeon noodles, quail eggs, 2 pieces of fried mandu, tteokbokki and pieces of diced up chicken thighs that are deep-fried to a nice golden brown.

The Jjajang sauce was mildly sweet and savoury with a slight spicy kick to it, which we felt went pleasantly well with the tteokbokki and ramyeon. The fried chicken arrives tender on the inside and crisp on the outside but we suggest you finish them up quickly before they turn soggy.

If you’re a fan of spicy food, don’t beat around the bush and head straight for the Red Holic Tteokbokki which comes with a broth that is equally as sweet as the Jjajang sauce, but with a fiery element that will impress.

The Red Holic Beef Brisket Tteokbokki (S$28.80++) can feed 2 to 3 people nicely given its size. Similar to the Crispy Chicken Jjajang Ttekbokki, this dish gives you the best of both worlds as it comprises both ramyeon as well as their signature Tteokbokki. Carbs aside, this dish will fill you up with the beef brisket, fried mandu as well as glass noodles too!

Tanjong Pagar may be home to plenty of Korean restaurants—this area is known to be Singapore’s ‘Little Korea’ after all—but what makes Red Holic stand out is their exceptional tteokbokki which are undeniably one of the best that we tried.

And while Red Holic’s menu is rather limited, they definitely deliver when it comes to quality. Should you wish to indulge in inexpensive and hearty Korean fare that is not overly pretentious, Red Holic is a great place to consider.

Red Holic
88 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088509
Tel: +65 6224 1064
Daily: 11.30am – 2am
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Five Oars Coffee Roasters is a Melbourne-style café which opened just a week ago in Tanjong Pagar. This newest addition to the slew of cafés around the area makes for an excellent choice for coffee-goers as they get their coffee beans sourced from Ethiopia and Brazil.

Their extensive menu features value-for-money brunch fare and substantial meals at night—from sumptuous rice bowls in the day to hearty mains for a filling dinner, Five Oars Coffee Roasters surely has something for everyone. They also serve craft beers on tap, including Stone & Wood Pacific Ale and Tuatara Helluva Helles Lager.

Besides their stunning instagrammable interior, here is why Five Oars is be somewhere café-hoppers should be adding to their list of brunch spots for the next hang out.

This brand new addition to the café scene in Tanjong Pagar strikes all the right chords in terms of aesthetics. The coffee shop is divided into two areas—an air-conditioned indoor area and an outdoor space with beautiful flora adorning the walls.

For our White Coffee (S$5 for 5oz), we opted for the blend roasted from a mix of Brazilian and Ethiopian beans. The result? A nutty, bittersweet and fragrant roast that will be enough to win over the discerning coffee-goers who frequent the district.

Otherwise, Five Oars Coffee Roasters also serves juices (S$5.5) and Craft Sodas (S$6.50) for non-caffeinated beverages. Should you be looking for some booze to have with your meal, they also offer craft beers on tap!

Five Oars offers a wide myriad of brunch fare ranging from interesting spins such as the Mentaiko Royale (S$21) and Valrhona Chocolate Pancakes (S$19.5) if you are craving for sweeter treats.

We opted for the Five Oars Breakfast (S$24), which indubitably is their signature breakfast item. Mixed salad, a sausage, a slice of thick cut bacon, portobello mushrooms, grilled tomato and half an avocado sits beside a piece of crispy hashbrown nestled atop a thick slice of sourdough toast.

Even with so many things going on in a single dish, every element on the plate was executed nicely—we would recommend getting this dish if you are looking for a substantial brunch affair.

Next up, we had the Spaghetti Granchio (S$18.50), which is essentially crabmeat pasta tossed in a tomato sauce. It is indeed a fairly simple dish, but it impressed us entirely nevertheless.

The pasta was cooked al dente and had a pleasant bite to it—but the star of the show goes to the generous helpings of crabmeat that topped the pasta which we were glad the café did not skimp on. 

Boasting an aesthetically-pleasing botanical interior, impeccable service, amazing coffee and plenteous food offerings, Five Oars Coffee Roasters is definitely a new café in Singapore worth checking out.

Five Oars Coffee Roasters
39 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088462
Daily: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Walking down Craig Road in Tanjong Pagar, it would be easy to miss the unassuming Kko Chi Bar, a Korean BBQ skewer restaurant. It took us quite awhile to find the restaurant as it was tucked away in a corner with a signboard featuring only Korean words. However, our little adventure to Kko Chi Bar was just so worth it.

The restaurant is run by a Korean owner who spent most of his early life in China, hence the menu has a very distinct Chinese influence. Each table has an interesting auto-rotating BBQ machine where you can simply place the skewers on and the machine rolls each skewer periodically to ensure that the meats and vegetables are cooked evenly.

The menu is pretty straightforward with a huge variety of skewers and other classic Korean dishes that you would find at any Korean restaurant. You can either pick from the a la carte menu or go for the value-for-money skewer sets.

The Set A (2 pax, S$45) is a great choice for those dining in a pair as it features a whopping 24 skewers that you can enjoy. The set includes–Chicken Skewers, Marbled Beef Skewers, Lamb Skewers, Sliced Lamb Chop Skewers, Pork Belly Skewers, Pork Belly with Enoki Mushroom, Shishamo Skewers, Grilled Mushroom Skewers, Garlic Moss Skewers and Mushroom Skewers.

Each set comes with banchan such as Kimchi and white rice to complement the skewers. You will also be served 2 condiments, a non-spicy dry dip and a sweet and spicy Korean-style chilli sauce. Each skewer was delicious but the spicy Lamb Skewers were a stand-out.

The lamb is dry-rubbed with Szechuan-style spices that reminded us of good ol’ Ma La Xiang Guo. The gaminess of the lamb is rid completely as the spices complement the juicy meat outstandingly well.

Kko Chi Bar
10 Craig Rd
Singapore 089670
Tel: +65 9730 4433
Daily: 6pm to 3pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

If you are craving for authentic Korean food after having binge-watched a whole series of K-dramas, Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant might just be the perfect place to head to.

Situated just a 3-minute walk away from Tanjong Pagar MRT station along Peck Seah Street, Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant offers some of the best Korean cuisines in Singapore. They serve a tantalising collection of Korean fare, ranging from barbecue meats to stews and Korean fried chicken.

The spacious interior of Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant makes it the perfect place for a casual meal with family and friends or even group gatherings. This Korean restaurant is well-furnished and has a homely feel, atop the authentic taste of their Korean cuisine. It is no wonder that this place is frequented by many Koreans!

In addition, Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant has several private dining rooms fit for small private functions.

JAEYUL-BOSAM WRAPPED KIMCHI WITH PORK

Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant boasts this dish as their signature dish and there is no doubt why. Use the lettuce to wrap the pork belly as well as the kimchi which had fresh oysters hidden beneath it—the taste of each component complemented each other, making this dish pleasantly balanced.

SPICY SAUSAGE STEW

No Korean dining experience will ever be truly completed without army stew. The Spicy Sausage Stew (S$38 / S$48) that we had was absolutely delicious—the savoury yet slightly tangy broth definitely did not disappoint, although it was milder than those that you’d usually get elsewhere.

Indeed, it is hard to go wrong with army stew—we would gladly finish this huge portion of army stew at Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant!

ASSORTMENT OF AUTHENTIC KOREAN DISHES

One would be glad to hear that the menu at Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant is as extensive as it can get. Take your pick from their wide array of options, including Korean Fried Chicken (S$20 for half, S$36 for whole), Korean Seafood Pancake (S$19) and Beef Bulgogi Bibimbap!

If you are with a group of friends, opt for their sharing portions for their Korean BBQ and barbeque your own meats to get the full Korean dining experience! Their Seasoned Prime Rib (S$33) should not be missed!

Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant may not be the most affordable Korean restaurant you can find in Singapore, but rest assured that they definitely do not compromise on the quality of their food. Given the authenticity and quality of their food, Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant is definitely worth a try.

Cho-won Garden Korean Restaurant
2, Peck Seah Street
Singapore 079305
Tel: +65 6225 1317
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Singapore’s cafe scene is booming, to say the least, and it is only growing more rampant with new cafes sprouting out everywhere. Yet, satisfying as artisanal coffee may be, a simple cuppa from a cafe often comes with a hefty price attached to it. It is during times like these that we are immensely thankful for establishments like Hangar Coffee Express.

Tucked away in Maxwell food centre, this new coffee shop is bent on serving up quality brews at slightly more affordable prices. Have you ever had a brewed flat white, let alone a macchiato or even a mocha at a hawker centre? Probably not, but now you can. Priding themselves with being the only hawker drink stall to have a LaMarzocco espresso machine, what you can expect—whether you’re a coffee aficionado or not—is a perfect shot of espresso every time.

The Hangar Coffee Express aims to bring the Melbourne-style café experience to office executives and tourists alike. They officially open for business today so if you happen to be around the area, you know where to get your caffeine fix!

Hangar Coffee Express only uses 100% Arabica beans sourced from the best estates in the world and are all roasted in small batches every week by its sister café, The Hangar. This week’s beans are from Sipirok, North Sumatra.

A pioneer of the café culture, The Hangar Coffee Express aims to sell quality artisanal coffee at affordable prices. You can get an espresso for S$3 and a flat white for S$4. For the non-coffee drinkers, you will be happy to know that speciality teas from A.Muse Projects and a homemade chai latte are also available—and are just as affordable.

Coffee Express is open every weekday from 8am to 5pm and in the future on weekend mornings as well.

Hangar Coffee Express
Maxwell Food Centre
1 Kadayanallur Street
Singapore 069184
Tel: +65 6291 0127
Daily: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown

Photos are credited to Hangar Coffee Express. 

Fans of Korean food would know that Tanjong Pagar is home to many authentic Korean restaurants and popular Korean barbecue joints. The latest addition to Tras Street is Daegweol, a new Korean restaurant that opened discreetly in August.

Those who enjoy hearty, traditional Korean dishes will find Daegweol right up their alley—their straightforward menu focuses on Korean delicacies such as Galbi-Tang (beef short ribs soup) and Suyuk (pork belly).

Daegweol also offers affordable lunch sets starting from S$16++. As the restaurant is currently still in soft launch, diners can expect an updated menu in coming months.

Taking over the premise of the now-defunct May May, Daegweol has a similar refined interior which boasts polished marble tables and a sleek counter bar right at the back of the hall.

The modern restaurant’s soft ambient lighting, crawling greens and wooden furnishing help to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for business lunches with clients, a romantic date with your significant other and even a gathering with large groups of friends.

We dropped by for their weekday lunch sets and the first thing that caught our eye was the Galbi-Tang (lunch – S$18++, dinner – S$26). For those who are not familiar with Korean cuisine, Galbi-Tang is beef short-rib soup and it is a favourite among Koreans.

The intense beef flavours from Daegweol’s Galbi-Tang is a result of simmering beef short-ribs for a total of six hours before they are served to diners. We pulled the tender meat off the bone easily and sang praises of its robust flavours. Other ingredients you can find in the soup are radish, leeks, glass noodles and stripped slice eggs.

Their Suyuk with Rice Set (lunch – S$16++, dinner – S$24++) came with six pieces of boiled pork, pork soup, healthy multigrain rice and fresh lettuce. The chewy boiled pork slices may be too tough for some but we felt that it went well in a wrap with seasoned bean paste. Wash it all down with refreshing light pork broth.

All main dishes come with free-flow ban chan such as kimchi, fried anchovies, tamagoyaki amongst others. We ordered a few rounds of the tamagoyaki which had bits of crunchy carrot for extra textures.

Apart from what we tried, the menu currently has three other main dishes—Suyuk, DweaJi-GukBap (pork bone soup) and NaeJang-GukBap (stuffed pork organ rolls). If you are up for some desserts, Daegweol has a range of bingsu, Green Teaffogato and Hotteok.

Daegweol
65 Tras Street
Singapore 079004
Tel: +65 6222 1828
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

]]> https://www.ladyironchef.com/2017/11/daegweol-singapore/feed/ 2 https://www.ladyironchef.com/2017/11/doco-singapore/ https://www.ladyironchef.com/2017/11/doco-singapore/#comments Fri, 03 Nov 2017 06:01:57 +0000 Dick Tan http://www.ladyironchef.com/?p=149344 Continue reading →]]>

Located at International Plaza, DOCO—short for ‘Donburi Coconut’—is the new kid on the CBD circuit where you can now look to for hearty protein-packed rice bowls and refreshing coconut soft serve.

This speciality food kiosk was set up as part of a joint venture between brands, Soi Coco and Fish Sh-nack, of which are known for their coconut and fried fish skin products respectively. Being relatively new, their only offerings thus far comprise two speciality donburi rice bowls next to the vegan-friendly and dairy-free Coconut Shake and Coconut Soft Serve.

For all of you health nuts who are ‘in love with the coco’, this is perhaps one of the most promising health-centric eateries along the bustling Tanjong Pagar area. From now till the end of the year, lunch sets—which consists of one rice bowl and one coconut dessert—are going at S$11.90 instead of the usual S$13.90.

style=”display:block; text-align:center;”
data-ad-layout=”in-article”
data-ad-format=”fluid”
data-ad-client=”ca-pub-1199323522078805″
data-ad-slot=”3885138539″>
//

The interior itself is pretty small. It includes the main kitchen area, a small order counter and bar seats at the side.

With lunchtime in the CBD often being a chaotic affair, the good folks at DOCO keep it simple. Simply, choose one of the two available donburi options, decide if you would like any add-ons and lastly, choose between either the coconut shake or the coconut soft serve.

style=”display:block; text-align:center;”
data-ad-layout=”in-article”
data-ad-format=”fluid”
data-ad-client=”ca-pub-1199323522078805″
data-ad-slot=”3885138539″>
//

The Sh-nack Don (S$8.90—essentially a beef rice bowl—came with a generous portion of peppery beef, an onsen egg and a copious sprinkling of crispy cajun-spiced fish skin.

The grilled beef was jam-packed with flavour with a subtle sweetness that went excellently well with the Japanese rice. The onsen egg provided an added richness but the real money-maker was the cajun-spiced fish skin.

Crumbled nicely over the rice, it gave the modest rich bowl a wonderful smoky aroma as well as a much-needed hit of umami.

style=”display:block; text-align:center;”
data-ad-layout=”in-article”
data-ad-format=”fluid”
data-ad-client=”ca-pub-1199323522078805″
data-ad-slot=”3885138539″>
//

The other alternative donburi option is the Sh-ken Don (S$8.90) which comprises honey miso chicken instead of beef. It, too, comes with an onsen egg as well as a generous ‘sh-prinkling’ of that glorious cajun-spiced fish skin.

Compared to the beef option, the chicken was tasty but a tad too dry for our liking. Be sure to pair it with the Coconut Shake, which is made purely from fresh blended Thai coconut water and coconut flesh.

A refreshing treat to have is their decadent Coconut Soft Serve (S$4.90) that comes as part of your main meal. This dairy and nut-free dessert is drizzled with gula melaka sauce and powdered gula melaka for that extra sweetness and oomph.

style=”display:block; text-align:center;”
data-ad-layout=”in-article”
data-ad-format=”fluid”
data-ad-client=”ca-pub-1199323522078805″
data-ad-slot=”3885138539″>
//

The subtle roasted flavours of the gula melaka really elevate the rich and creamy coconut flavour making it pretty similar tasting to chendol (minus the little green slug-like jellies).

Overall, the soft serve is refreshing and light, and we would recommend trying it whether or not you decide to have your lunch there.

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.

DOCO
10 Anson Road
#01-16 International Plaza
Singapore 079903
Tel: +65 9049 9926
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon to Thu: 11am – 8pm
Fri: 11am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

The beauty in fusion cuisine lies in its ability to combine different culture, culinary techniques and cuisine to create something entirely different and intrinsically better. But it goes far beyond simply slathering kaya on a scone or sprinkling curry leaves onto pasta—it takes practice, and possibly hundreds of failed attempts to achieve the perfect recipe.

Maru Dine & Bar is a contemporary Asian fusion restaurant located in Icon Village in Singapore’s central business district that expertly integrates the cultures of Vietnam, Japan and America into its food.

Be charmed by its uniquely designed interior that creatively encompasses the essences of each individual culture, as well as a stellar array of quirky creations that will please your palate as much as it will tickle your senses.

Photo Credit: Maru Dine & Bar

Setting their sights on a new culinary direction, the chefs behind Maru aim to deliver refreshing and inventive dishes that are derived from the collision of cuisines from around the world.

Some popular items on their menu include the Iberico Pork Jowl that features strips of tender and crispy pork cheek served along with a tofu purée and a savoury mentaiko sauce, as well as their Uni Ikura Angel Hair that comes with caviar, seaweed, truffle and a Japanese-inspired sauce made using fresh sea urchin.

Photo Credit: Maru Dine & Bar

For cuisine that bends all the rules in an edgy yet sophisticated setting, Maru Dine & Bar is a spot you should totally visit.

Maru Dine & Bar
12 Gopeng Street#01-05 Icon Village
Singapore 078877
Tel: +65 6327 1123
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 11pm
Sat: 4pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

The newest cafe to open in the Central Business District is Lunar Coffee Brewers—opened by the same team behind Atlas Coffeehouse and the now-defunct Assembly Coffee.

Situated in Downtown Gallery, the cafe seeks to provide a space where you can escape from the pressures of everyday life with comfort food and specialty coffee.

Fill your tummy with hearty home-cooked rice bowls and even signature dishes that originated from Atlas Coffeehouse. The coffee selection is aplenty too; beans are sourced and roasted by Two Degrees North Coffee Co.

As an added bonus, visitors do not have to pay for GST and service charge as well. So if you are looking for a new lunch spot in the CBD area, Lunar Coffee Brewers is where you should be headed to next.

The sleek, clean lines of Lunar Coffee Brewers called out to the inner minimalists in us. We love how the interior is kept sophisticated and chic with marble tables in both white and black. The cafe reminded us of this old saying that sometimes, less is more.

The Lu Rou Belly Don (S$14.50) features bean sprouts, pickles, ginger, onsen egg and generous chunks of juicy pork belly lying atop a bed of warm fluffy rice. While it is not mind blowing, it is still worth a try.

We paired our lunch with a cup of Hot Cappuccino (S$4.50), just one of the many caffeine choices you have at the cafe. Coffee addicts would definitely enjoy the creamy milk and strong espresso which packs a punch. If there is one reason why we would patronise Lunar Coffee Brewers again, that would be their aromatic coffee.

Do not leave the cafe without trying their Milky Way Soft Serve (S$5.90). It is a white cold brew coffee soft serve ice cream made better with homemade shortbread crumble.

Lunar Coffee Brewers
#01-49 Downtown Gallery
6 Shenton Way
Singapore 068815
Tel: +65 6224 4500
Mon to Fri: 8am – 8pm
Sat: 9am – 3pm
Closed: Sun
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

]]> https://www.ladyironchef.com/2017/06/lunar-coffee-brewers/feed/ 0 https://www.ladyironchef.com/2017/03/tanjong-pagar-coffee/ https://www.ladyironchef.com/2017/03/tanjong-pagar-coffee/#comments Mon, 13 Mar 2017 01:00:14 +0000 Editorial http://www.ladyironchef.com/?p=124056 Continue reading →]]>

In a fast-paced and highly stressful society where Singaporeans are only getting an average of 6 hours 32 minutes of sleep every night, it is little wonder that most people would require that morning dose of caffeine to get through the day.

For those who spend a majority of their time toiling away in the Central Business District (CBD), searching for that flavourful cuppa may be a daunting task.

But fret not, for here are 9 coffee places in Tanjong Pagar where you can get coffee that will help you to stay awake.

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

#1 MELLOWER COFFEE

A coffee joint that features speciality coffee directly from Shanghai, Mellower Coffee offers patrons a vast spread of original house blends with a mix of coffee beans from Brazil, Colombia and Ethiopia.

For individuals who work on the go, Mellower Coffee has equipped its premises with plenty of charging points and wifi so that you will be able to refresh yourself with a cup of delicious coffee whilst pressing on with work in this beautiful and spacious space.

Photo Credit: SG Style Yahoo 

Try the Sweet Little Rain (S$9.80)—an original creation by their Korean Barista Champion, Kim Jinkyu, which features a ball of cotton candy suspended over a piping hot cup of Americano.

If you prefer cold brews, Mellower Coffee offers black and white cold brews (S$6.80) packaged in a stylish bottle and is easy for patrons to grab on the go.

Mellower Coffee
77 Robinson Road #01-03 Singapore 068896
Tel: +65 6532 2436
Mon to Fri: 8am – 8pm
Sat: 9am – 5pm

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

#2 JEWEL COFFEE

Found in the basement of Tanjong Pagar Centre, Jewel Coffee provides a conducive setting for individuals as well as groups to enjoy a cup of coffee both during work meetings and the lunch hour.

Jewel Coffee provides a variety of locally roasted fair trade beans, such as Colombian and Sumatran beans, for patrons to choose according to their coffee preferences.

All coffee is also made with a double shot which makes Jewel Coffee a fantastic choice for coffee lovers and those who need an extra boost of energy that day.

A simple espresso is priced affordably at S$4.80 and a cup of filtered drip brewed coffee costs S$5.20. There is also a regular spread of pastries and sandwiches.

Jewel Coffee
7 Wallich Street #B1-06 Tanjong Pagar Centre Singapore 078884
Tel: +65 6209 3474
Mon to Fri: 7am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 10pm

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

Photo Credit: Old Tea Hut 

#3 OLD TEA HUT

For those who are assimilating to our local culture, there is no better way to start than by ordering your very own “Teh-C” or “Kopi Siew-Dai” at the Old Tea Hut. 

Bringing traditional blends of rich coffee and tea to the modern era, Old Tea Hut offers weary souls with the opportunity to taste authentic, local drinks the way it was made by our forefathers.

This coffee joint also features a range of unique drinks and blends for the adventurous and the curious. The most popular out of the entire range is the gula melaka and the almond-infused coffee and tea.

As prices are extremely wallet friendly, coming in at a reasonable range between S$1 to S$2.30, it is no wonder why you would always be able to spot a queue at this coffee joint’s counters even from afar.

Old Tea Hut
77 Robinson Road #01-02A Singapore 068896
Tel: +65 9068 2749
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 5.30pm

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

#4 ALCHEMIST – PACAMARA

Coffee brewing has been known to be a pretty exact science. From having the perfect brewing temperatures down to decimal placings, to using water with the right amount of total dissolved solids (TDS), it takes the best in the trade to produce that unforgettable cup of coffee.

As the name suggests, Alchemist seeks perfection with every fresh brew in a minimalistic, modern alcove in the midst of the busy working crowd.

An extension of the popular Pacamara Boutique Coffee Roasters along Upper Thomson Road, patrons can expect the same lab-esque approach to coffee making that uses the single blend of Arabica coffee sourced from Thailand that is roasted fresh daily.

Prices are justifiable for their range of quality drinks ranging from S$3 for an espresso to S$6.50 for an iced mocha. You definitely would not go wrong with perfectionists at work.

Alchemist – Pacamara
International Plaza, 10 Anson Road #01-34 Singapore 079903
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 3.30pm
Sat: 7.30am – 1.30pm

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

#5 GRAIN TRADERS

Although the name of this cafe suggests ‘food-only’, the Grain Traders brews smooth espresso with coffee beans from Papa Palheta, and prices their coffee at S$4 for a black coffee and S$5.50 for white coffee.

For those who enjoy filter brew coffee, you will be pleased to know that the Grain Traders also sources their beans from Guatemla, Brail and Ethiopia—plenty of choices for all coffee lovers to enjoy.

As The Grain Traders is also on a mission to #feed(ing)peopleright, you will be able to enjoy healthy meals such as porridge, oatmeal and bagels with your coffee in this gorgeous, and cosy cafe.

Grain Traders
#01-03/04 100 Tras Street 100 AM Mall Singapore 079027
Mon to Fri: 8am – 8pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 8pm

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

#6 THE POPULUS COFFEE & FOOD CO

A contemporary cafe that is famous for being one of the most instagrammable cafes in Singapore, the Populus Coffee & Food Co is known for its freshly roasted speciality coffee beans from Ethiopia, Colombia, Kenya, Panama and Honduras.

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

The coffee menu was crafted with the intent to suit three different moods—the Monolith which is for comfort and reassurance, the Caldera which uplifts and refreshes and lastly the Duxton Vice which is for those who are feeling a little cheeky and adventurous.

Perfect for the early morning or even in the late afternoon, visit The Populus Coffee & Food Co for a coffee priced affordably between S$4.50 to S$6 to awaken your senses.

The Populus Coffee & Food Co
146 Neil Road Singapore 088875
Tel: +65 6635 8420
Mon and Wed: 9am – 7pm
Tues: 9am – 4pm
Thurs and Fri: 9am – 10.30pm
Sat: 9:30am – 10.30pm
Sun: 9.30am – 7pm

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

Photo Credit: Blankets and Coffee

#7 6OZ ESPRESSO BAR

An award winning cafe that delights in serving its patrons traditionally brewed speciality coffee, the 6oz Espresso Bar only crafts coffee with Arabica beans that are roasted weekly and in small batches.

As an alfresco setting, the 6oz Espresso bar is a great place for those in the CBD to take a break and enjoy a fine cup of coffee that not only tantalises the taste buds but is of high quality as well.

All coffee is reasonably priced between S$5 to S$6 and almond lovers would be delighted to find that the cafe has featured a Roasted Almon Cafe Latte (S$6) on its menu!

6oz Espresso Bar
Address: 20 McCallum Street, Tokio Marine Centre, #01-K1 Singapore 069046
Tel: +65 6509 6602
Mon to Fri: 7am – 5.30pm

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

#8 DAPPER COFFEE

Heading up to level 2 of 73 Amoy Street to Dapper Coffee was a tiny setback, especially after trudging through Singapore’s humid weather. But the cosy space is a great place to spend an idyllic afternoon over great coffee.

The swanky interior resembles a cool British pub. The coffee aroma that filled the air was alluring and we were thankful for the good range of different coffee to choose from.

Dapper Coffee also offers a range of cakes that includes Salted Egg Yolk Sesame Cake and Mango Avocado Cake for you to pair your coffee with.

Dapper Coffee
73A Amoy Street
Second floor
Singapore 069892
Tel: +65 9005 4790
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Weekends: Closed

style="display:block; text-align:center;"
data-ad-layout="in-article"
data-ad-format="fluid"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-1199323522078805"
data-ad-slot="3885138539">

#9 DRURY LANE

One of the cafes in the Tanjong Pagar neighbourhood that we go to regularly is Drury Lane.

 We have had the coffee at Drury Lane on many occasions and it is always consistent and reliable, especially when we need a pick-me-up after back to back meetings. The baked goods are also worth a try. With several desserts like nutella chocolate tart, carrot cake, and salted caramel tart on rotation, you will be spoiled silly at Drury Lane.

Drury Lane
94 Tanjong Pagar Road
Tel: +65 6222 6698
Mon, Wed & Thu: 9am to 8.30pm
Fri: 9am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 6pm

Japanese rice bowls are all the rage and we are happy that the trend is here to stay. Besides Kuro Maguro which just opened earlier this year, we have discovered another gem in Tanjong Pagar that offers affordable donburi.

Salmon Samurai in 100AM Mall mainly features S$9.90 customisable salmon donburi sets. Of a mere 10-minute walk from Tanjong Pagar Station, the Japanese eatery’s prime location and hospitable service make it a popular dining location for those who are working in the vicinity.

Ready for this quick and affordable salmon don fix?

Salmon Samurai goes by an efficient semi-self service concept where diners will make payment at the counter and collect their utensils before taking a seat. Once your food is ready, the wait staff will bring them to your table.

We decided to go with brown rice for our Garlic Shoyu Salmon (S$9.90). The huge serving came with generous pieces of tender salmon and an onsen egg sitting atop a bed of warm and moist brown rice.

If brown rice is not your thing, you can also choose to have your salmon with udon or mixed salad. For more flavours in your bowl, there are also extra toppings such as avocado and ebiko.

Don’t forget to complete your meal with a Warrior Maki (S$9.90). We really enjoyed the combustion of flavours which came from the crab meat, salmon sashimi, fresh cucumber and savoury chicken floss. The creamy garlic mayo added an interesting sweet and sour note to it.

Apart from Garlic Shoyu Salmon, diners also have other choices including Salmon Sashimi with Avocado, Salmon Mentaiko, Spicy Salmon and Salmon Poke (S$9.90).

While options are rather limited, the dishes are hearty and unpretentious just the way we like it.

Salmon Samurai
100 Tras Street
#03-22 100AM
Singapore 079027
Tel: +65 6543 6823
Mon to Fri: 11am – 8pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 6pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Japanese restaurant Kuro Maguro located at level one of  the all-newTanjong Pagar Centre is a new initiative by Japanese maguro and sashimi wholesaler Misaki Megumi Suisan.

Kuro Maguro is the second restaurant opened by the same people behind Maguro-Donya Miura-Misaki-Kou Sushi & Dining in Suntec City.

The restaurant’s name translates to Bluefin Tuna, which is one of the most popular fish used for sashimi and sushi in Japan. Specialising in maguro donburi, you can expect prices to range between S$20 to S$40.

While its convenient location makes it a choice lunch and dinner destination for those who are working around Tanjong Pagar, the waiting time may not be ideal for those who are in a hurry.

The Salmon Oyako Meshi (S$20.80++) comes with fresh salmon slices and a generous portion of juicy roe that give off a burst of flavour with every bite. We enjoyed the fatty salmon on its own without wasabi or ginger slices.

Underneath the salmon chunks sits a bed of slightly warm Japanese rice that has been marinated with mellow-tasting vinegar and dried seaweed flakes. You also get a bowl of miso soup on the side.

Other dishes on the menu include Kuro Maguro’s signature Otoro Meshi (S$32.80++), Toro Aburi Meshi (S$32.80++) and Barachirashi (S$18.80++). There is also free hot green tea during lunch hours.

Do take note that the waiting time may be longer than 20 minutes as space is limited to only 32 diners.

Kuro Maguro
#01-04 Tanjong Pagar Centre
7 Wallich Street
Singapore 078884
Tel: +65 6386 8561
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 9.30pm

Julee is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She is an advocate of travel and hopes to visit Iceland someday. She enjoys having a good conversation over tea and a slice of cake. There are two things in the world she cannot live without—food and humour.

Newly opened contemporary restaurant Ash & Char sits in the heart of Singapore’s CBD. The gastro-bar—opened by the team behind Rise & Grind Coffee Co—is just a short walk away from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station and Telok Ayer MRT station.

Ash & Char derived its name from the primary cooking techniques used for its dishes. Do not let the fancy interiors put you off; the menu is actually surprisingly affordable. The scrumptious main courses here range between S$15++ to S$21++ for a scrumptious plate of Aglio Olio and Hanger Steak respectively.

The versatile venue is perfect for business luncheons, dinner dates and even after-work drinks.

The Hanger Steak (S$21++) was cooked to medium rare, but we thought the soft and chewy slices were leaning towards rare doneness instead. The 150-day grain-fed Angus steak is served with charred baby romaine lettuce, tomatoes, garlic flakes and a semi-spicy pickled jalapeño purée.

Ash & Char’s Korean Chicken Burger (S$17++) was served with crisp sweet potato fries. Succulent marinated fork-tender Korean fried chicken, in-house fermented kimchi and refreshing apple slaw are sandwiched between two fluffy sesame buns.

If you are torn between the Korean Chicken Burger and the Hanger Steak, we say go for the burger instead.

We also recommend the Bacon & Mushroom Carbonara (S$16++). Al dente penne pasta is cooked in fragrant white wine and served with aromatic mushrooms, crispy garlic flakes, streaky bacon and a sous vide egg.

Ash & Char
#01-03/04, 21 McCallum Street
Singapore 069047
Tel: +65 9132 8880
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves travelling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all-time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Chick Can Rotisserie is a new establishment which prides itself in whipping up Canadian-style Roasted Chicken and Poutine—it is one place to head to for comfort, rustic Western food.

Located along Amoy Street—just a 5-minute walk from Telok Ayer station—Chick Can is a cosy and wallet-friendly option for those who work in the Central Business District.

We were pleasantly surprised that all the items on the menu are below S$20, with the exception of the Half Chicken Meal (S$22+) which can easily feed three to four people. As if that is not enticing enough, you don’t have to pay for service charge at Chick Can Rotisserie too!

From now until 30 November 2016, our readers can quote “ladyironchef” to enjoy 40% off the second main course during dinner (6pm to 10pm). This promotion is valid for dine-in and takeaway.

The self-service concept at Chick Can Rotisserie is a simple one—you grab the menu and decide on what you want, tell the friendly staff over the counter and a buzzer will be given so you know when to collect your food.

Otherwise, have a Chick Can meal in the comforts of your home or during lazy days in the office by opting for takeaway. You can also get your roasted chicken delivered via Foodpanda.

MOZZARELLA CHEESE STICKS

Start your meal with some appetisers; well they make great finger food to go with your beer.

Of course, with every tasty North American food, comes a cheesy appetiser. The Mozzarella Cheese Sticks (S$7, regular/S$12, large) were delicious. Have it immediately and you can break and stretch the cheese, dip it into the marinara sauce on the side and enjoy it. We loved the golden herb crust on the sticks as well as it added to the overall flavour in each bite.

CHICK CAN’S CHICKEN WINGS 

Also, appetisers/ beer snack always mean we need our chicken wings. The Chicken Wings at Chick Can Rotisserie are specially marinated and served piping hot with BBQ sauce or ranch dressing. These crispy delights are going at S$7.50+ for four and S$13+ for eight.

CHILLI CHICKEN DIP

This is a twist of our favourite chilli crab sauce, but with chicken slices. We enjoyed the strong sweet and spicy flavour of the sauce which was meant as a dip for the toasted bread. A perfect savoury snack for those who are there for drinks.

AUTHENTIC POUTINE

There are not many places in Singapore where you can find authentic Poutine—a Canadian dish which originated from Québec.

For the uninitiated, Poutine is made with French fries and cheese curds sprinkled on top, then topped off with a drizzle of light brown sauce. Imagine our delight when we found out that it is part of Chick Can Rotisserie’s menu!

You can choose to have your Poutine in various styles and we went for Poutine with Chicken (S$12.50+).

The fresh cut fries are crispy on the outside with soft interiors, and goes well with the generous portions of chicken cubes and twirling cheese curds doused in brown gravy. There is a good balance between the main ingredients which made it a hit among those at the table.

ROTISSERIE CHICKEN & SIDES

Chicken is a staple in Asian cuisines. And precisely because this is our ultimate comfort food, we had very high expectations for their Roast Chicken. So how did it fare?

Most rotisserie chickens tend to be a little on the dry side but this is definitely not the case at Chick Can.

Each chicken is lightly seasoned to keep the original taste of the meat. It is then slow-roasted in a rotisserie oven specially imported from Canada to achieve the perfect result—juicy meat and crispy skin.

There are three options: Quarter Leg Meal (S$16.50), Quarter Breast Meal (S$18.50) and Half Chicken Meal (S$22+).

We shared the Half Chicken Meal and it came with a toasted bun, a side dish of your choice, coleslaw and dipping sauce. You get to choose between salads, Rice Pilaf and French Fries for sides. It is indeed a huge portion that can easily feed two to three people.

The half chicken is roasted to lip-smacking perfection with its crispy reddish brown skin that envelops succulent, tender chicken meat. We could really hear the skin crack as we dug into it with knives! Try it with the traditional brown dipping sauce. We loved the Asian dipping sauce which is similar to the Thai sweet chilli sauce.

CHICKEN PIE WITH COLESLAW

The Chicken Pie with Coleslaw (S$12) reminds us of home. It was simple, hearty and we loved the flaky crust combined with the massive chunks of chicken and vegetables inside. It also comes with a side of coleslaw to complete your meal.

BAKED RICE/PASTA, SANDWICHES AND WRAPS

Roasted chicken aside, Chick Can Rotisserie also offers two baked dishes—Chicken Baked Rice (S$15) and the Chicken Baked Pasta (S$15). Also, you can expect dishes such as Club Sandwich with Chicken (S$15), BBQ Chicken Wrap (S$15) and Spicy Chicken Wrap (S$15).

SUGAR PIE

All of us agreed that the Sugar Pie (S$6.50+) at Chick Can Rotisserie is a wonderful option for those with a sweet tooth. It is unabashedly sweet and comes accompanied with smooth whipped cream. The classic French-Canadian pie is served warm from the oven to our table and was demolished within minutes.

From now until 30 November 2016, our readers can quote “ladyironchef” to enjoy 40% off the second main course during dinner (6pm to 10pm). This promotion is valid for dine-in and takeaway.

Chick Can – Rotisserie
82 Amoy Street
#01-00
Singapore 069901
Tel: +65 6221 8598
Mon to Sat: 11am – 10pm
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

This post is brought to you by Chick Can Rotisserie.

Formerly located along Tras Link, Cake Spade has recently moved to a newer location – in fact, just approximately two hundred metres down the road.

The new venue is a lot more spacious and can accommodate many more customers, but getting a seat on a Monday night still remained a tricky challenge because nobody can get enough of Cake Spade’s cakes.

The owners of Cake Spade strive to provide maximum satisfaction with every bite of their creations and freshness is of utmost importance; no artificial preservatives have been used in any of the baked-from-scratch desserts.

From Strawbery Tofu Cheesecake, Peach Tofu Cheesecake, Red Velvet Cake to Hummingbird Cake, the cake selection at Cake Spade will make you go weak in the knees. Think of Cake Spade as someone to go to for an afternoon break for those who are working in the Tanjong Pagar area and also a great supper destination.

Hallmark creations include their signature strawberry tofu cheesecake (S$5.90 per slice) and Nutella fudge crumble (S$4.20 per slice) – we found ourselves hopelessly addicted to their crunchy biscuit base.

Cake Spade
83 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088504
Tel: +65 6444 3868
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 9.30pm
Fri and Sat: 12pm – 10.30pm
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

New York’s cloak-and-dagger burger restaurant – Burger Joint – makes its debut in Singapore this week, with its first outlet at Amoy Street. The outlet will have a similar inconspicuous entry point, with a back entrance on Gemmill Lane instead of a flashy store front.

This follows their signature style, with their first outlet in New York City – at Le Parker Meridien – mysteriously located behind a curtain of the hotel lobby. Opening on 03 May 2016, the Singapore outlet will be their sixth outlet worldwide.

Proudly deemed as a burger restaurant without all the fluff of gourmet burgers, Burger Joint makes genuinely unpretentious burgers that have left the harshest of critics in awe.

They have been known to refer to their burgers as anti-gourmet burgers. Although there is nothing wrong with a tasty gourmet burger, the main idea of the burgers at Burger Joint is just to serve some honest and delicious burgers – maybe even the best one you will ever have.

Rest assured that everything was done to make sure that the burgers you have in Singapore will be the exact replica of what you can get in New York.

Although the official Singapore menu and prices are not released yet, it has been said that prices will be kept lower than the average prices of regular gourmet burgers, around the S$15 mark.

The opening of Burger Joint could mean big competition for many other burger restaurants in Singapore and we are all the more excited for even better burgers to hit our island.

Burger Joint
115 Amoy Street
#01-03
Singapore 069935
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

Photos from burgerjointny.com

The bustling Central Business District (CBD) is home to many restaurants, pubs, bistros and eateries. There is always something to eat, but sometimes, everything seems expensive.

What you may not know is that there are many independent eateries that offer mains for S$10 and below in the vicinity of Raffles Place, Tanjong Pagar and Telok Ayer – on top of what you might get at the usual food courts and food centres.

We bring you 10 Affordable Eats in Singapore’s Central Business District Under $10 that will not burn a hole in your wallet.

#1 AUSSIE ROLL

We first chanced upon such rolls in Australia and were impressed by the convenience of it. It is that easy to simply grab a roll to go and they are really affordable, with prices starting from S$2+ onwards. You can expect premium fillings such as avocado, prawns and lobster, and so much more.

30 Raffles Place
#B1-05 Chevron House
Singapore 048622
Tel: +65 6746 3077
Mon to Fri: 8am – 7pm
Closed: Fri & Sat
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

#2 COFFEE HIVE

Farther down on Robinson Road, Coffee Hive – a Singaporean-style eatery – has a menu of affordable local fare. Expect dishes such as Chicken Curry (S$5.80), Claypot Tofu (S$5.80) and Gong Bao Ji Ding Rice (S$5.80). They also have a couple of Western dishes.

63 Robinson Road #01-02
Singapore 068894
Tel: +65 6224 8707
Mon to Fri: 7am – 6pm
Closed: Fri & Sat
Nearest Station: Downtown

#3 KOMALA’S

Komala’s is a well-known name in Singapore for Northern Indian vegetarian food, with multiple outlets islandwide. Komala’s is a popular choice for many in the CBD as most lunch options here will cost you approximately S$3 to S$5. We highly recommend the murtabaks here and trust us, the portion is huge.

#B1-06, Chevron House, 30 Raffles Place
Singapore 048622
Tel: +65 6533 0644
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

#4 MOI LUM

This popular Chinese restaurant on Maxwell Road typically offers communal-style dining food and is very popular during dinner time for big groups.

What most may miss out is the fact that they offer S$7.90 set lunches (a main + a soup or drink) that is huge bang for the buck. Some popular choices include Roasted Chicken Noodles and Seafood Rice Noodles. You can go for their Cantonese Set Lunch at S$8.90 instead with slightly better mains.

38 Maxwell Rd
Singapore 069116
Tel: +65 6226 2283
Daily: 11am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#5 NGON

There are quite a number of pho places in the CBD, but because Ngon is strategically-located in One Raffles Place, it is perpetually packed during lunch hours. However, if you are lucky enough to find a seat, be sure to grab a bowl of pho (S$9.90) or a Vietnamese rice dish.

1 Raffles Place, B1-17
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 6536 6466
Daily: 7.30am -9pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

#6 PHO STOP

We actually prefer Pho Stop over Ngon but it is a longer walk away from the main area of the CBD. But for pho enthusiasts, it is so worth the walk – just to get a bowl of really tasty and hearty pho. They are mostly under S$10 per bowl.

72 Tanjong Pagar Rd
Singapore 088493
Tel: +65 6534 8178
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#7 QQ RICE

QQ Rice is Taiwanese chain, specialising in customisable healthy rice balls and rolls, packed with a variety of ingredients. You can pick your base rice that ranges from brown rice to purple rice and more. Choose from fresh vegetables, hearty meat options, eggs and a whole lot more, too. Something to eat on the go, and it is definitely filling. Prices are an average of S$3 to S$5, but you will definitely not exceed S$8.

#B1-07, One Raffles Place, 1 Raffles Place
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 6536 9558
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

#8 SALAD & WRAPS

Customise your very own salad or wrap to go, or you can pick from their selection of more than 10 specialty salads and wraps. A regular-sized salad starts from only S$7 and a full wrap will cost you about S$8.

1 Raffle Place, #B1-11 One Raffles Place
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 9654 9868
Mon to Fri: 9.30am – 8pm
Saturday: 10.30am – 5pm
Closed: Sunday
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

#9 THE SANDWICH SHOP

Made fresh daily, the sandwiches here (S$8 – S$9.50) can also double up as a great breakfast option. The sandwiches are unpretentious without the fluff, just simple and honest sandwiches packed in convenient take-away boxes in a supermarket checkout style. Their sandwiches are preservative-free and trans fat-free and they include unique spreads and sauces.

16 Collyer Quay #02-07
Singapore 049318
Tel: +65 6536 5141
Mon to Thu: 7am – 6pm
Fri: 7am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

#10 THE WICKED GARLIC

The Wicked Garlic has pasta options that are pretty affordable. From carbonara to risotto, our pick for the best pasta here is the Linguini Al Nero Di Sepia ($9.70) – a squid ink pasta that is pretty flavourful. The Wicked Garlic gets pretty packed during lunchtime, so be sure to head down early.

10 Anson Road
#01-37, International Plaza
Singapore 079903
Tel: +65 8509 2942
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 9pm
Sat: 11.30am – 8am
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

The Wagon is one of the newest but most unassuming restaurant on Tras Street, Singapore. It looks subtle and unassuming from the outside, along the rows of restaurants and shophouses. But if you can locate this gem, you are in for a treat.

When night falls, a huge red neon signboard bearing the words ‘The Wagon’ lights up in full glory. And that is also when The Wagon comes alive. From the brick walls to the copper pans and pots hung up, the interior of The Wagon is chic and fun – all while boasting a very sassy yet casual vibe.

From French-Japanese inspired tapas served on trolley, to the amazing beef platter which features four different premium cuts of Hokkaido beef (dry-aged in-house), to the whole Muenier Flounder, The Wagon is full of surprises and a place that is suitable for all occasions.

Think of it as a spot where you can have great tapas and mains in a relaxed setting. And did we mention that it serves cocktails at S$7 each during Happy Hour? Also, our readers can quote “ladyironchef” to get a surprise dish from the chef.

The kitchen is headed by Chef Makoto Deguchi – he who has cooked at a 1-Michelin Star restaurant in Paris. This explains why his dishes feature a rustic French style while using primarily freshly-imported ingredients from Hokkaido.

What we were sold by immediately was the “wagon” that is being pushed from table to table. The idea is really to surprise diners every time with tapas of the day. The tapas are off-menu and are different every day, with a few mainstays.

What happens is that after you’ve settled in your seats, the wagon would be pushed to you, presenting to you the various tapas and its prices. The team will also verbally introduce every item to you, tell you stories that might interest you, and you can then pick whatever you fancy.

This provides a very personal interaction; think of it like olden day dim sum push carts, but in a fresh alternative with items that you probably couldn’t even guess!

Apart from the rotational items, expect mainstay dishes such as Foie Gras Creme Brûlée (S$12), fresh uni (S$8 for 10g) on Carrot Mousse (S$5), and Shaky Shaky Fries (S$8).

The Brûlée was intensely flavoured with foie gras and this smooth treat is not for the faint-hearted. The uni was undeniably fresh and creamy; just the way we like it.

You can order the fresh uni by weight on its own, but a recommended serving is to have it on top of the Carrot Mousse that is adorably displayed inside an empty uni shell. The textures are incredibly similar and while the taste differs, it complements each other pretty well.

A surprising star for us was the Shaky Shaky Fries, which is vaguely like an upgraded version of McDonald’s Shaker Fries. The burst of umami came immediately upon first bite because of the ultra-tasty seasoning that is imported directly from Miyazaki itself. Potato wedges are used instead, and the broad surface balanced out the saltiness of the snack. For just S$8, we would do this over and over again.

Another tapas to look out for is the Frill Lettuce (S$15) with a side of minced beef. You are to wrap the beef up in the leaves, like how you would enjoy K-bbq. Every lettuce is flown in from Hokkaido, and it was served to us still with the root intact – this is as fresh as it can get; the plant is basically still alive!

On to the mains. Which comes in a regular menu and is pretty much fixed, but no less boring.

One of the most impressive dishes is the Grilled Platter (S$75), featuring four different premium cuts of Hokkaido beef with various accompanying sauces. The beefs are dry-aged in-house and are extremely buttery with a gorgeous marbling.

The cuts might differ daily and you will be served the four best and freshest cuts of the day on this platter. We had the rump, sirloin, tenderloin and top blade – all served atop rosti chunks. The sirloin and tenderloin were the juiciest and most stunningly-marbled.

Then, there is the Muenier Flounder (S$60 whole and S$30 half). It is something that is not commonly seen here in Singapore. Our fish was served whole on the plate and was so well-seasoned, we polished the flounder to the bone (literally).

In case you are wondering, yes, flounder is a common fish breed used in Japanese cuisine, but this white fish is given a makeover here at The Wagon and prepared the French way – flavourful, elegant and so good that you need no condiments.

This main alone will be more than enough to impress. The whole fish is pretty massive, and we recommend half a portion for one person and a whole fish for two, so you can still enjoy some of the small tapas plates from the cart.

One seasonal item to look out for this Spring is the Sautéed Spring Vegetables (S$28) which features a variety of Japanese vegetables that are so very fresh. Prepared in the simplest of way, the vegetables are cooked over high heat to produce a broth so natural and sweet; the end result is a hearty and healthy dish so intensely packed with Sprin flavours.

And because we always have room for desserts, we went for The Moelleux Au Chocolat (S$15) and Milky Blanc-Manager (S$13). They are lighter dessert choices that would be great if you are already feeling quite stuffed from your tapas and mains.

We could not leave without trying some of The Wagon’s cocktails. As rum-lovers, the Wagon Mai Tai (S$18) takes first place for us. It comprises a mix of Dark and White Rum with Lime Juice, Orgeat, Burnt Orange and Vanilla Syrup for a very complex but well-balanced taste. So similar yet distinctly different from your classic Mai Tai. 

We also had the Pi Pi Piew (S$20) – just because, right? Quirky name, light cocktail. It uses a mix of strawberry and thyme-infused vodka with peach liquor and more for a fruity and refreshing aftertaste.

The Wagon also has excellent happy hour promotions (Mon to Sat, 6pm – 8pm) with S$5 half pints of Kronenbourg Blanc, S$7 cocktails and S$6 Suntory Premium Malt Pilsners. PARTY TIME, GUYS!

Remember to quote “ladyironchef” when you are dining at The Wagon to get a surprise dish from the chef.

The Wagon
55 Tras St
Singapore 078994
Tel: +65 6221 6369
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 12am
Sat: 6pm – 12am
Closed: Sun
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

This post was brought to you by The Wagon.

Opened by the folks behind Department of Caffeine and Two Degrees North Coffee Co., The Populus Coffee & Food Co. opened its doors to public late last year, and it has been our favourite cafe in Singapore since.

You see, The Populus Coffee & Food Co. is everything a good cafe should be – a neat decor with plants and natural sunlight, comprehensive food menu with wholesome meals and homemade desserts, and a brilliant cuppa.

With the rise of demands for cafes in Singapore, more and more are sprouting out across the island, but sadly, everyone is just cutting corners and compromising on the quality – whatever they are. Thank God The Populus Coffee & Food Co. is nothing like that at all, and they always strive to bring the best experience to cafe-goers.

Upon stepping in the The Populus Coffee & Food Co., any coffee lover would be enchanted by the centralised set-up. The coffee bar, with the sleek coffee machine, is a sexy one that will not go unnoticed. Watch the baristas in action, have a chat with them and they will be happy to share their knowledge about third wave coffee with you; smells are free, too!

The coffee beans are roasted exclusively by Two Degrees North Coffee Co, with 3 blends and 4 single origins at the moment.

You cannot leave The Populus Coffee & Food Co. without having a cup, that’s for sure. We’ve had several cups since its soft launch days, and never once were we disappointed.

The menu was painstakingly put together with the good thoughts of feeding their patrons healthily and well. Your best bet will be the Grains Bowl (S$18) that features quinoa, beautiful grilled vegetables and roast chicken. Honest earthy flavours so healthy and fulfilling, this is what we’d like to think of health food.

Then, there is the Lemon & White Chocolate Sundae that stole our hearts. This is one unexpected creation, and what might look like just a sundae is actually way more than that.

The Lemon & White Chocolate Sundae (S$14) is a mind-blowing bowl of homemade Tahitian vanilla ice cream with fresh lemon jelly, rosewater meringue, white chocolate crumb, popping candy, cornflakes and citron mascarpone. The end result is a sophisticated bowl of well-balanced citrusy and milky flavours that left us longing for more.

The Populus Coffee & Food Co.
146 Neil Road
Tel: +65 6635 8420
Mon & Wed: 9am – 7 pm
Thu & Fri: 9am – 10.30pm
Sat: 9.30am – 10.30pm
Sun: 9.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Outram

Read: We spoke to several cafe owners to get a gist on how much it costs to open a new cafe in Singapore – from rental, to interior design, labour cost, and kitchen equipment.