Tai Seng may be an industrial area but it doesn’t just have worn-out buildings and office towers. If you take a stroll through the area, you’ll pass by stretches of hip restaurants, modest eateries and noisy coffee shops.

But that’s not all — stowed away in various pockets of the estate are tons of foodie secrets that we’re about to let you in on.

Whether you’re grabbing a breakfast bite, heading out for lunch or looking for a post-work hangout spot, we’ve put together a list of 27 cafes and restaurants in Tai Seng you should definitely check out! Ranging from ramen and poke bowls to dim sum and salads, you’re bound to find something that’s right up your aisle.

ALCHEMIST

There’s just something about Alchemist’s atmosphere  — their industrial-chic abode exudes a quiet serenity that goes wonderfully with their esteemed coffee. Located in former Khong Guan Biscuit Factory, this cafe is one of Tai Seng’s best-kept secrets.

Their flagship outlet in Tai Seng is armed with an in-house roastery, ensuring the freshest, most aromatic brews. Their baked goods will do you no wrong, either. We can’t get enough of their Almond Croissant which is crusted over with a buttery cookie flap.

2 Mactaggart Rd, #01-01, Khong Guan Building
Singapore 368078
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

ARTEASE

As the name playfully suggests, Artease takes a lot of pride in their tea. You can expect the most unique concoctions from them, such as Caramel Popcorn (S$4/regular, S$5/large) and Iced Honey Espresso (S$4.50).

The Caramel Popcorn (Salty) comprises a harmonious blend of caramel, milk, roasted rice tea, and sea salt. If you’re in need of a strong pick-me-up, the Iced Honey Espresso (S$4.50) will fit the bill. The honey lends the drink a gentle sweetness and helps to slightly mellow out the intensity of the coffee.

Artease’s selection of cooked-to-order sandwiches is especially popular amongst the working crowds here, as well. Their Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich (S$4.50) is highly recommended.

30 Tai Seng Street, #02-09, BreadTalk IHQ
Singapore 534013
Tel: +65 6222 6966
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

BREADTALK

This home-grown brand probably needs no introduction. With countless outlets across the nation, BreadTalk is easily the ring leader of the local bakery scene. Their ovens spew out an impressive line-up of classic and contemporary bread, along with seasonal pastries and sweets.

Whether you need some fuel for the day ahead or a mid-afternoon snack, Breadtalk has got your back. One of their well-loved creations perfect for breakfast is the Egg O’ Clock (S$1.70), a soft chiffon cake sandwiching runny egg lava and melted cheese. Snag it early in the morning while it’s warm for the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience.

And if you haven’t tried their signature Floss Buns (S$1.70), are you really a Singaporean?

30 Tai Seng Street, #01-04, BreadTalk IHQ
Singapore 534013
Tel: +65 6636 4344
Daily: 7am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

Photo credit: Chibaobao

CHIBAOBAO

Located at Tai Seng Point level 2, Chibaobao is a new eatery in Tai Seng which specialises in claypot dishes which are affordably priced under S$10.

11 Irving place
taiseng point #02-02 S369551
Tue – Sat: 11.30am – 8.30pm
Sun: 11.30am – 3pm

DIN TAI FUNG

When you think of Din Tai Fung, you think of quality. Hailing from Taiwan, this Chinese restaurant is world-famous for its Steamed Pork Dumplings (S$10.30++ for 10 pieces, S$7.80++ for 6 pieces). Each of these Xiao Long Baos is a masterpiece, undergoing six preparatory stages and pleated with precisely 18 intricate folds.

Another thing we love Din Tai Fung for is its open-concept kitchen, which allows customers to witness the chefs’ impeccable skills and calm focus. Watch them churn out their best-selling dishes which include the Steamed Chicken Soup (S$10.80++) and Fried Rice with Shrimps and Eggs (S$12.80++).

30 Tai Seng Street, #01-02, BreadTalk IHQ
Singapore 534013
Tel: +65 6702 0060
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

EVERTON CREAMERY

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. That’s exactly what Everton Creamery did, and they’ve brought the Roman craft to our land. Producing al naturel gelato with techniques from authentic gelato masters, this dessert joint is a force to be reckoned with.

Their flavours rotate with the season to ensure the freshest quality, but they do have a few permanent fixtures on their menu. Their classic Pistachio (S$4.80/single, S$8/double; +S$0.50 for premium flavours) never fails us, made from roasted Pistachio scooped straight from the baskets of Sicily. Top it on their Belgian Waffle (S$9.30) because, well, why not?

30 Tai Seng Street, #02-01A, BreadTalk IHQ
Singapore 534013
Tel: +65 9436 3479
Daily: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

FOOD REPUBLIC

Transport yourself back to the historic era at Food Republic in BreadTalk IHQ. Dressed in an ancient Oriental aesthetic accompanied by nature-themed elements, the food court dons antique decor and actual Chinese artefacts.

Trying out food court stalls are always a hit or miss — but, we’re here to ensure that you won’t have to suffer the latter. Li Xin Teochew Fishball Noodles’ Signature Dry Fishball Noodles (S$4.30) are an old-time favourite. Concocted with age-old recipes and house-made fish balls, you’ll be bestowed with al dente noodles and fish balls so springy they could bounce off carpets.

30 Tai Seng Street, #01-06, BreadTalk IHQ
Singapore 534013
Tel: +65 6444 6019
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

HARRY’S

Looking for a classy yet casual lunch or dinner spot? Harry’s will take you right into its snazzy abode and take care of your empty stomach.

Their Dry-Rubbed Baby Back Ribs (S$29) always call out to us with their fall-off-the-bone tenderness and well-concocted seasoning. We can never leave without a serving of their Mushroom & Truffle Flat Bread Pizza (S$23), as well. Gooey cheese intertwined with juicy mushrooms and sealed with a dash of truffle oil – it doesn’t get more decadent than this.

18 Tai Seng Street, 18 Tai Seng, #01-23/24/25 & #01-K4
Singapore 539775
Tel: +65 6386 9064
Sat to Thurs: 11am – 11pm
Fri: 11am – 12am
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

HUGGS COFFEE

No-frills coffee. That’s just how the baristas over here do it. With a mission to cater to the working crowd, Huggs Coffee will set you straight with its dignified yet affordable brews. Their high-quality beans sourced from Columbia and Sumatra vow to be sturdy bases for your morning cuppa.

Their Latte Gula (S$4.80) will whisk your senses to the streets of Malacca while their Turmeric Latte (S$5) promises to inject a spritz of health. For quick breakfast bites, their Blueberry Muffin (S$3.50) is a safe choice.

18 Tai Seng St, 18 Tai Seng, #01-K1
Singapore 539775
Tel: +65 6282 3373
Mon to Fri: 7:30am – 10pm
Sat to Sun: 10:30am – 7:30pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

GLC RESTAURANT

Boasting an impressive array of zi char delights that taste really good and are priced pretty affordably, GLC Restaurant is definitely one to consider should you find yourself hankering after proper zi char that’s also Muslim-friendly for your Muslim friends.

GLC Restaurant has an incredibly extensive menu and they serve up almost any kind of local food that you’re craving. From quintessential local food such as chicken rice and nasi padang to popular zi char items such as hor fun and yang chow fried rice, the list is endless and you’ll definitely be spoilt for choice.

121 Upper Paya Lebar Road
Singapore 534836

GRASSO COFFEE

Originally a takeaway kiosk, Grasso Coffee is now a full-fledged cafe that offers straightforward grub at affordable price points. Nothing too fancy here but you definitely won’t be complaining at the end of your meal.

Their menu features classic cafe dishes, from stuffed croissants and baked rice to pasta and salads. Their Egg Mayo Croissant (S$4.50) is a fail-safe choice — the egg mayo is rich and creamy while the croissant exudes flaky crispiness.

As for their mains, their Cream Baked Chicken is an all-time crowd-pleaser. The best part? You can get a portion at just S$3.80 thanks to their insanely reasonable tiered pricing — S$5 for 1 main, S$8 for 2 mains and S$11.50 for 3 mains!

The Commerze @ Irving #01-27/28, 1 Irving Place
Singapore 369546
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

Photo Credit: www.instagram.com/thebigfat.cheeks/

JJAK & CO.

We love our poke bowls but most of them are beyond reach in the CBD areas. Thankfully, Tai Seng has its very own poke bowl contender secluded in Tai Seng Centre — JJAK & CO. Don’t underestimate its humble interior and menu because this place actually serves up formidable poke and Japanese rice bowls!

Their fish is unbeatably fresh and diced into fat juicy chunks, just the way we like it. If you’re not a fan of sashimi, their Pork Belly Yakiniku Don (S$12.90) or Truffle Beef with Foie Gras (S$19.90) will impress you just as much.

3 Irving Rd, #02-03, Tai Seng Centre
Singapore 369522
Tel: +65 9656 1456
Mon to Fri: 11.30 am – 09.30pm
Sat: 11.30am – 08.30pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

KNOTS CAFE AND LIVING

At first glance, you’d think Knots Cafe & Living is just a well-furbished furniture store. And, you wouldn’t be wrong. But, what do you know — they serve decent nosh as well! Behind their mystical garden theme and woody aesthetic, their hidden kitchen dishes up classic brunch and Western-Italian fare.

Opt for a waffle twist to your usual brunch affair with the Knots Waffle Brekkie (S$18.90), which comes with smoked beef sausage, sautéed mushrooms and scrambled eggs. The Fish & Chips (S$13.90) is a recommended dish as well which sees thick dory fillets breaded and fried to an idyllic crisp.

160 Paya Lebar Rd, #01-07
Singapore 409022
Tel: +65 6817 0383
Sun to Thurs: 9am – 9pm
Fri to Sat: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Macpherson

KOAT AROY

You know you’re in safe hands when you hear the restaurant staff rattling off in Thai. Koat Aroy is a little Thai eatery that serves value-for-money dishes in super generous portions. While their menu has its hits and misses, when they do a dish right, it’s pretty superb.

Go for their Pad Thai (S$6) which will have you singing “sabai sabai” with its bouncy noodles coated in well-balanced seasoning and citrus notes. As for their seafood, the Thai Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce (S$22) is sublime.

#01-24, The Commerze @Irving, 1 Irving Rd
Singapore 369520
Tel: +65 6386 7475
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 5pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

MEATS N’ MALTS

To all the carnivores out there who have not given Meats N’ Malts a go, where have you been? This gem of a restaurant dishes out honest Western grub at wallet-friendly prices. Steak, ribs, country fried chicken — they’ve got it all.

Their BBQ Pork Ribs (S$19.90) guarantees to reach the fall-off-the-bone benchmark and is glazed with their lip-smacking BBQ sauce. If you’re in the mood for a nice slab of fish, their Grilled Dory with Lemon Dill Cream Sauce (S$12.90) will surely satisfy. Grilled to a nice charred crisp, the fish’s light smokiness pairs wonderfully with the herbaceous cream sauce.

30 Tai Seng St, BreadTalk IHQ, #01-07
Singapore 534013
Tel: +65 6909 0010
Sat to Thurs: 12pm – 11pm
Fri: 12pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

NOMVNOM

Even before Impossible Meat was a thing, nomVnom was already changing the game for plant-based gastronomy. This vegan fast food joint dishes out grub so delicious that you’ll gladly be tossing meat aside.

Their extensive menu sees pizza, smoothie bowls, and sweet indulgences as well. Let their Beetroot Hummus (S$8.90) burger convince you of the goodness of mushroom patties or treat yourself to their Pesto Linguine (S$12.90) bursting with basil goodness.

18 Tai Seng St, #B1-02, 18 Tai Seng
Singapore 539775
Tel: +65 6384 9678
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

ONE BAR CAFE

One Bar Cafe will have your tastebuds singing — literally. Started by four band members, this 3-in-1 establishment ticks all the boxes of “cafe”, “bar” and “live music venue”.

Also, every Thursday is the cafe’s open-mic night! So grab your pals and head down for a liberal time of food and song!

1 Irving Place #01-25, The Commerze @ Irving
Singapore 369546
Tel: +65 8798 2625
Tues to Sat: 11am – 10pm
Sun: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

Photo Credit: www.facebook.com/rockymastersingapores/

ROCKY MASTER

You may or may not have heard of this cafe-restaurant with over 10 outlets islandwide. But, even if you have, you probably don’t have much of an impression of it. Well, it’s time you gave them a shot because this place actually serves up a wide variety of pretty delectable grub.

18 Tai Seng St, #01-28, 18 Tai Seng
Singapore 539775
Tel: +65 6384 5096
Daily: 11.30am – 8.30pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

Photo Credit: www.facebook.com/soramensg/

SÕ RAMEN

Sõ Ramen serves up some pretty solid bowls at budget-friendly prices. Made with premium wheat flour, their ramen comes in three forms. Each type is specially curated to bring out the best of each broth.

Get cosy with their Grand Tonkotsu Ramen (S$13.90), which will warm your soul with its rich hearty broth carrying melt-in-your-mouth pork cheek, silken cha shu, and braised pork belly. For something lighter on the palate, their Shoyu Ramen (S$10.90) is just as comforting.

30 Tai Seng St, #01-03, BreadTalk IHQ
Singapore 534013
Tel: +65 6444 5516
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

THE BOILER

Get your hands dirty with some good ol’ crab at The Boiler, which does some seriously delicious Cajun-style seafood. Diners flock there for their seafood boil speciality, which features an assortment of seafood bathed in your choice of sauce and served in a bag. There’s nothing pretty about it but rest assured that it’s going to be one big beautiful mess.

The Bombdiggity Bag (S$149) is one of their best-sellers, consisting of Dungeness crab, mussels, prawns and a whole load of other ingredients. It’s big enough to be shared amongst four or one giant Hulk. If seafood ain’t your thang, their Southern Hot Crispy Chicken Sandwich (S$14.90) is a killer option as well.

18 Howard Rd, #01-06, Novelty Bizcentre
Singapore 369585
Tel: +65 6635 1285
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

Photo Credit: www.instagram.com/lixuanpoh/

THE BONELESS KITCHEN

Vegetarian jjajangmyeon and kimchi jjigae that actually tastes good? Sign us up, please. The Boneless Kitchen is a vegetarian Korean restaurant that has been breaking ground in the local Korean food scene for many years now.

While the extensiveness of their menu isn’t comparable to most Korean establishments in Singapore, it’s definitely sufficient to trigger our appetites. Their Kimchi Jeon (S$3.90) makes for the perfect starter, coming in crispy and mildly spicy bite-sized pieces. But, the real feast begins when the gigantic Army Jeongol (S$36.90/2 pax) arrives. Packed with instant ramen, spam, cheese, mushrooms and a whole load of other ingredients, it’ll have you feeling like a soldier charged for battle.

1 Irving Pl, #01-31 Commerze @ Irving
Singapore 369546
Tel: +65 8457 6464
Daily: 12pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

THE FLAME CAFE

Housed in an industrial building, The Flame Cafe is a great venue for hosting large gatherings. While they offer a good variety of Western dishes, we suggest you just come here for their smashing Halal pagoda steamboat buffet.

Layered with four tiers, their steamboat contraption allows you to boil, barbecue and steam your ingredients all at the same time. Their buffet selection ranges from marinated meats and seafood to vegetables and mushrooms.

73 Upper Paya Lebar Rd, Level 1, Central Bianco Building
Singapore 534818
Tel: +65 6282 0251
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

THE GOOD BOYS JUICE AND COFFEE BAR

Clean eating has never been easier than with the help of The Good Boys Juice and Coffee Bar. Despite their name, they sure know how to make a mean smoothie bowl. Their smoothie bowls come in huge heart-shaped bowls and are loaded with an assortment of toppings. Our favourites are the TGB Acai Bowl (S$12) and Going Nuts (S$12) bowl.

Besides smoothie bowls, they also offer a line-up of hearty noodle/grain salads and beverages. Customise your own TGB Hearty Bowl (S$9) and pair it with any of their juice blends for a wholesome lunch!

1 Irving Pl, #01-26, The Commerze Building
Singapore 369546
Tel: +65 8130 1083
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6.30pm
Sat to Sun: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

TIM HO WAN

We don’t know about you, but we’re suckers for dim sum. And sure, Swee Choon is great, but where do we go when we’re looking for somewhere just a little up the tier? Tim Ho Wan is the answer.

This casual dim sum restaurant doesn’t have the most extensive menu that trails across the floor but every dish is satisfying enough. The apple of the restaurant’s eye has got to be their Baked BBQ Pork Buns (S$6.20), which will win your heart with their flaky buttery crust encasing sticky, juicy chunks of char siew.

Other menu highlights include their Pan-Fried Radish Cake and chee cheong fun rolls.

18 Tai Seng St, 18 Tai Seng, #01-36
Singapore 534119
Tel: +65 6246 2000
Mon to Fri: 11am – 9pm
Sat to Sun: 10am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

TOOK LAE DEE

We’ve seen enough of overseas brands coming to Singapore and not living up to the hype. Thankfully, Took Lae Dee is not one of them. This famed restaurant chain operates 24/7 in Bangkok and has landed on our shores at 18 Tai Seng. With a name that translates into “cheap and good”, you can expect some seriously affordable fare.

Their best-selling Pad Krapow (S$6) is adored by many for its piquant basil kick coating the stir-fried minced pork. Top on a fried egg (S$1.20) for that glorious runny yolk enhancement. As for their Pad Thai ($6 for chicken, $7.20 for prawn), it’s an extremely tasty and authentic rendition, albeit verging on the sweet side.

18 Tai Seng Street, #01-34/35/K9, 18 Tai Seng
Singapore 539775
Tel: +65 6702 2000
Daily: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

WISHES CAFE

Wishes Cafe is yet another neighbourhood dessert cafe that does excellent handmade gelato. Creamy and lusciously rich, every batch of gelato is made daily for utmost freshness. Their well-loved flavours include Kaya, Pistachio and Lychee Rose (S$3.50/single, S$6/double).

As if the prices weren’t reasonable enough, they have a special promotion every day from 7 pm – 9 pm where diners can get a scoop of gelato at a mere S$2 for every waffle order!

Block 36, Circuit Rd, #01-414
Singapore 370036
Tel: +65 9299 6161
Sun to Thurs: 12pm – 10pm
Fri to Sat: 12pm — 11pm
Nearest Station: MacPherson

YAMATO IZAKAYA

For those days when you and your colleagues can’t seem to agree on a lunch spot, Yamato Izakaya may help to ease the tension. This 3-in-1 institution houses three different restaurants — Man Man, Hitoyoshi Ramen and Tora Tora.

Famed for their signature unagi, Man Man serves up freshly grilled eel that’s dreamily tender and smoky. Take your pick from their three portion sizes: Unatama (S$20.50++), Medium (S$28.40++) and Large (S$36.10++).

If anyone needs to curb a ramen craving, Hitoyoshi Ramen will do the job. Their Tonkotsu Ramen (S$10.90) is satisfying enough, with a sizeable portion of thin ramen noodles, pork slices, black fungus and a perfect ramen egg.

Yamato Izakaya
65 Ubi Road 1, #01-92 Oxley Bizhub,
Singapore 408729
Tel: +65 6385 5273
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

Let’s yum cha! Dim sum has traditionally been a popular choice for communal meals in Singapore. Whether you are dining with family or friends, sharing steaming baskets of bite-sized goodies is a fantastic way to encourage bonding.

Unfortunately, this activity becomes less accessible when accommodating for vegetarian family members and friends. Even for popular Chinese restaurant chains, their vegetarian dim sum selection tends to be uninspired, and is sparse at best.

To maintain the spirit of dining together, here is a list of restaurants that offer a more robust menu of vegetarian dim sum items, and are led by chefs with sufficient imagination and skill to recreate non-vegetarian dishes into original vegetarian alternatives.

By serving up palatable vegetarian dishes, these places prove that meatless doesn’t mean tasteless!

Photo Credit: https://www.pscafe.com/chopsuey-cafe-at-dempsey-hill/

CHOPSUEY CAFÉ

Chopsuey Café, the Asian spinoff of PS. Café, has matured from a maladroit eatery into a restaurant adept at serving modern interpretations of Chinese dishes. Located in Dempsey, diners can find repose in the colonial-styled dining space while sipping on infusions inspired by regional flavours.

Amidst its menu, one can find a comfortable selection of dishes that are either fully vegetarian or can be modified into vegetarian alternatives.

Start off with their dim sum selection – the refreshingly light Vegetarian Crystal Dumplings and the mildly honeyed Vegetarian Char Siew Pau are choice picks.

To supplement your meal, their San Choy Pau is laced with a kaleidoscope of flavours and textures, while the vegetarian Chopsuey Satays – with alternating tofu chunks! – retain the sweet-savoury profile of its meat counterpart.

Block 10, Dempsey Road
#01-23
Singapore 247700
Tel: +65 6708 9288
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 4pm, 4pm – 6pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 4pm, 4pm – 6pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/vegetarian.sg/

DIVINE REALM VEGETARIAN

Initially a vegetarian steamboat buffet restaurant, after being subsumed under the Zizai Restaurant brand, Divine Realm streamlined its menu into an eclectic mix of vegetarian zichar offerings.

Besides more unusual vegetarian options like ramen and prata, the restaurant offers all-day dim sum dishes. Due to the consistent quality of ingredients and careful craftsmanship, even tables not expressly looking for dim sum dishes are fond of padding their order with these morsels.

Customer favourites include the succulent siew mai and the piquant fried dumplings – both brimming with an assortment of sliced vegetables, the former induces a burst of fresh sweetness with each bite, while the latter’s sinfully savoury profile makes it dangerously easy to pop.

Hougang Avenue 8
Block 501, #01-630
Singapore 530501
Tel: +65 6387 2058
Daily: 7.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hougang

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/empresssg/

EMPRESS

Hidden in the Asian Civilisations Museum, Empress reinterprets Chinese cuisine by interweaving traditional offerings with vibrant contemporary flavours. Overlooking the Singapore River, customers can enjoy spectacular views of the waterfront and skyline while sampling the restaurant’s lively modern fare.

By leveraging on a recent meat substitute called Omnipork, Empress utilises this invention to reconstruct pork-based dishes without forgoing the dominant textures and flavours of said protein.

Using a combination of Omnipork and Impossible Meat, Empress is able to recreate favourites from char siew to sweet and sour pork balls with an astonishing likeness to their original counterparts.

For an added surprise, these weekend dim sum brunches at Empress entail unlimited servings of your favourite dim sum items for a truly indulgent dining experience!

1 Empress Place
Asian Civilisations Museum, #01-03
Singapore 179555
Tel: +65 6776 0777
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 4pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

Photo Credit: https://www.fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-singapore/

JADE

Found in the historically preserved The Fullerton Hotel, Jade is more than a restaurant that serves impeccable Chinese food. Possessing a space evocative of a time-worn past and a spread rooted in authenticity, Jade has evolved into a present-day keeper of our culinary heritage.

Although a standalone vegetarian dim sum menu isn’t available, Jade offers vegetarian and vegan set menus. These sets present an extensive six-course spread, of which the first two courses include creative dim sum bites.

For patrons more partial to traditional Chinese vegetarian fare, the vegetarian menu is a homely and comforting mix of familiar flavours. Those looking for something more unusual, the aptly named “Taste The Future” vegan menu heavily features Omnipork in its adaptations of non-vegan favourites.

1 Fullerton Square
Level 01, Fullerton Hotel
Singapore 049178
Tel: +65 6877 8911 / 8912
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm (Dim Sum), 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

LINGZHI VEGETARIAN

A vegetarian offshoot of TungLok Group, LingZhi Vegetarian is one of the linchpins of Singapore’s vegetarian scene. Spending nearly three decades redefining what scrumptious and healthy vegetarian food should taste like, LingZhi maintains the gourmet quality representative of its lineage.

Prepared à la carte fashion, the lunch buffet provides the freedom to mix and match a free flow of your preferred dim sum items, making this the perfect spot to hold family gatherings at.

With twelve distinct dim sum dishes available, be it more uncommon flavour combinations – ever considered trying a chrysanthemum dumpling? – or harder to find vegetarian alternatives – fancy a vegetarian “char siew” sou? – chances are if they’re not found in LingZhi menu, you’ll be hard-pressed to find it elsewhere.

541 Orchard Road
Liat Towers, #05-01
Singapore 238881
Tel: +65 6734 3788
Daily: 11am – 3pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/LotusVegetarian/

LOTUS VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

Iconic in the vegetarian circle for its comprehensive buffet spread, Lotus is a popular location to host large family gatherings or celebrations at. Between Friday to Sunday, a sojourn into the Asian Buffet showcases both progressive Chinese vegetarian dishes and local favourites.

Diners can help themselves to pickings of meticulously recreated staples – the unassuming Wild Mushroom Crystal Dumpling holds within its gossamer skin a rich and colourful flavour – alongside more unique dim sum originals such as the BBQ King Oyster Bun.

Head over to chefs-manned stations after to pick up a warm serving of Chicken Rice or Laksa; whichever your pick of comfort food, their scent profiles are comparable to their original inspirations.

201 Balestier Road
Quality Hotel Marlow, Level 2
Singapore 329926
Tel: +65 6254 0090
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm (Dim Sum), 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Farrer Park
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

MITZO

Few will believe that this unorthodox, glitzy interior belies an authentic Cantonese restaurant. Mitzo seeks to reinvent Cantonese dining without relinquishing its foundational essence; serving uncompromising Cantonese fare in a space steeped in flamboyant and deconstructed transmutations of traditional Chinese elements.

Available all day, the Vegetarian Steamed Dim Sum Platter for two is a splendid addition to any meal. Although the vegetable dumplings are well-balanced in flavours, the crowning dish goes to the sheer aromatic potency of the Wild Mushroom Truffle Bun.

To complement the initial tasting, diners can peruse the à la carte menu for more substantial vegetarian dishes. Consider adding on the deep-fried monkey head mushrooms; they provide an excellent textural dimension to your meal, and pair marvellously with a bespoke cocktail from the bar.

270 Orchard Road
Grand Park Orchard, Level 4
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8855
Sun to Wed: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Thu to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm, 10.30pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Somerset

MOUTH RESTAURANT

Since its inception in 1988, Mouth Restaurant has been doling out traditionally crafted and handmade classic Cantonese dishes to its patrons. Post menu revamp in 2013, Mouth has added on more inventive dishes, including ingredients once considered unconventional into its kitchen mix.

Although the non-vegetarian dishes received the bulk of this modernisation, updated vegetarian dim sum dishes include the fragrant Steamed Truffle Crystal Dumpling and the sublime moistness of the Extra Soft Coconut Sugar Sponge Cake.

For the insatiate few, feel free to add on a hearty vegetarian carb dish: either the Braised E-Fu Noodles or Vegetarian Fried Rice with their smoky wok hei will pair wonderfully with the lighter profiles of the dim sum items.

38 Maxwell Road
Airview Building, #01-01/02
Tel: +65 6438 5798
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 4.30pm (Dim Sum), 6pm – 10pm (Dim Sum)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/newfutkai/

NEW FUT KAI VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

New Fut Kai pays homage to its divine namesake by offering a communal space conducive for bonding over meals at, and providing a cordial service ubiquitous to respected Chinese dining establishments.

Beyond its mainstay of Chinese dishes, New Fut Kai’s menu is peppered with regionally diverse items, with a commonality only residing in said dishes’ popularity with Singaporeans. Expect an extravagant mix of vegetarian-friendly local delicacies and traditional dim sum fare not found anywhere else – fancy some bak kut teh with a side of kung bak pao?

With one of the largest yet most affordable vegetarian menus in the market, bring your pickiest vegetarian relative or friend here. Given the sheer size of the restaurant’s offerings, there’s bound to be something that piques their interest!

282 Jalan Besar
Singapore 208945
Tel: +65 6398 0836
Daily: 10am – 3pm (Dim Sum), 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Farrer Park

Photo Credit: https://www.yantingrestaurant.com/

YAN TING

At Yan Ting, the anchor Chinese restaurant of St. Regis Singapore, diners can seek an intimate respite in the restaurant’s serene ambience, and enjoy their gastronomical retreat while under the graceful attendance of their service staff.

Renowned for its award-winning Weekend Dim Sum Brunch, the resident masterchefs plate up an exquisite array of Cantonese-inspired creations that feature an effortless blend of traditional and modern.

Unlike other establishments, Yan Ting presents vegetarian fare that is more than an awkward hodgepodge of garden greens. These specially-crafted dishes are a compelling blend of meat substitutes and spiced vegetables.

From time-honoured favourites like spring rolls and mushroom dumplings to specially-requested Impossible variants of non-vegetarian dishes, you can look forward to an exciting afternoon of intricate vegetarian delights at Yan Ting.

29 Tanglin Road
Level 1U, The St. Regis
Singapore 247911
Tel: +65 6506 6887
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 3pm (Dim Sum), 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/belindasaw.ailin/

YUAN XIANG VEGETARIAN

With an extensive menu rivalling even its non-vegetarian equivalents, Yuan Xiang is the prime choice for families with older members whose palates prefer the familiarity of typical Chinese vegetarian fare.

Unlike places that serve plates of reheated premade items, patrons can revel in the sight of their dim sum baskets piled high at Yuan Xiang. Cooking up fresh vegetarian alternatives to dim sum staples at all hours, go early to snag them before they sell out for the day.

The radish cake is a perennial bestseller: its centre retains the dish’s characteristic salty zest through clever use of mushrooms, while its exterior is pan-fried to an addictive crispiness. Other popular items include their saccharine char siew bao and delicate steamed dumplings.

134 Changi Road
Singapore 419720
Tel: +65 6344 3239
Daily: 9.30am – 10pm (Dim Sum)
Nearest Station: Eunos
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

A real gem in Havelock’s Central Square is Annalakshmi Restaurant, offering homely and authentic vegetarian Northern and Southern Indian cuisine.

Annalakshmi boasts an interesting dining concept: they offer absolutely no menu and their food is served buffet-style. At the end of the meal, diners pay as they wish.

We had a unique dining experience here, just like that of having a meal cooked by a friend’s mother at their cosy home.

GENEROUS SERVICE

In addition to providing an unconventional dining experience, Annalakshmi is also mostly run by generous volunteers who dedicate their time to the restaurant and provide their help in all aspects including cooking, serving, dishwashing, transportation and more.

The reason behind Annalakshmi’s business model is simply to provide service to their diners and not put too much pressure on the amount of profit they earn. As such, they also do not run on a typical hierarchical structure one is used to in an organisation.

Since the restaurant is mostly run by volunteers, it is tough to pin a price point on these selfless and compassionate acts of service. That said, we recommend paying at least S$10 for your meal.

MOUTH-WATERING INDIAN FOOD

We arrived at Annalakshmi early and were promptly seated at a table right by the delectable spread of food, ranging from fluffy and fragrant basmati rice to dhal and several varieties of side dishes.

Each of the vegetarian dishes was incredibly aromatic and tempting with the delicious mixture of scents and spices wafting through the air.

One of our favourite combinations on the plate was the Naan which soaked up the Moong Dhal’s flavours and delivered a burst of spices into our mouths.

There is also a live station of Dosa Delights, where diners can choose from 4 different types of dosas such as Plain, Butter, Masala and Jaffna (a Sri Lankan variation of Dosa).

We also headed over to the live station and ordered a Plain Dosa and Masala Dosa from the friendly chef who promptly cooked it before us. The dosas were thin and perfectly crisp yet soft in the centre as well, and both the sauces paired beautifully with it.

Offering a vast array of drinks as well, we ordered their Grape Lassi to round up our meal at Annalakshmi. The lassi was creamy from the yoghurt and had just the right amount of sweetness.

Give Annalakshmi a visit if you wish to introduce a foreign friend to Indian cuisine, or even if you are craving for a hearty, delicious vegetarian meal and wish to contribute to a good social cause.

The compassionate restaurant and its volunteers will definitely have us visit again soon.

Annalakshmi Restaurant
#01, 20 Havelock Rd,
04 Central Square, Singapore 059765
Tel: +65 6339 9993
Mon: 11am – 3pm
Tue to Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6.15pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown/Clarke Quay