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 menu is nothing fanciful and nothing exorbitant. You have some sandwiches and toasts options, as with a selection of iced beverages and coffees. But local favourites are mainstays, and you can always come in for a bowl of curry chicken rice (S$6.50) or kaya toast.

Now, the kaya toast (S$3). It wouldn’t be anything you’d expect from your regular haunts like Yakun and Toast Box. The tastemakers behind The Tastemaker Store present their version ala an English muffin style, with slightly toasted bread with sweet coconut jam and a slab of wonderful clotted cream. Very photogenic, and it tastes as good as it looks. Or you can go for the signature Lemon curd toast (S$3). Something citrusy for summer sounds perfect. Both come in a set (S$5.80) which include two soft boiled eggs and coffee/tea.

We tried the sandwiches (S$5.80) too, but they were mediocre. Pick the old school yam cake (S$3.80) instead. If you need a slice of cake, the rose flavoured one is pretty decent, though we’d wish for it to be a tad more moist. The coffee was not the best we have had too, but having a cuppa while unwinding in the cosy space is not so bad after all.

Neighbourhood cafes – when done up well – can truly be characteristic. We love the rustic simplicity of The Tastemaker Store, but they need to work on improving the food and coffee standards.

The Tastemaker Store
Block 22 Havelock Road #01-705
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

For more recommendations, read our guide to the best cafes in Singapore.