While Singapore has no shortage of swoon-worthy attractions to impress the most blasé globetrotter, its like-a-local experiences reveal the city’s vibrant, culture-rich heart. Here’s where to go for a slice of life in Singapore.
1. Chin Mee Chin Confectionery
Whether you want to try all the versions of Singapore’s classic breakfast: pillowy, pandan-sweet kaya toast paired with home-brewed coffee, or want to liven it up with delicious local twists on international favourites, Singapore’s artisanal bakeries, brunch spots, and coffee houses have got you covered! A prime example of a legacy eatery in Singapore, Chin Mee Chin, with its picturesque blue-and-white interior and classic masterpieces like velvety kaya jam on toasty brioche and umami-rich Hae Bee Hiam Bun, is worth braving the long queue! If you’re in the mood for more innovative confections, their Cream Horn, Chocolate Peanut Butter Tart, and Gula Melaka Coffee Chiffon Cake hit that sweet spot!
2. Killiney Kopitiam
While aesthetic cafes serving all-day brunches accompanied by an assortment of seasonal blends, espressos, and cold brews run amok in this cosmopolitan dreamscape, its traditional kopitiams found in vibrant historic districts and quaint shophouses have an undeniable charm. An old-school coffee shop with plenty of character, Killiney was established in 1919 by a Hainanese immigrant and remains the hotspot for Nanyang-style kopi, with its full-bodied caramel and chocolate notes. Its comprehensive menu includes kaya butter toast served with a soft-boiled egg, French toast, and Chee Cheong Fun: silky steamed rice rolls dipped in spiced sweet sauce.
3. Katong Sin Chew
While Singapore’s heritage-riddled districts boast numerous retro-chic bakeries serving Insta-worthy artisanal delights, from buttery golden ‘cruffins’ and perfectly burnt cheesecake to sourdough breakfast sandwiches comprising fig jam, whipped butter, cheese, and egg, don’t miss out on its more nostalgic nooks! Katong Sin Chew is a vintage ‘cake shop’ that caters to those simultaneously attacked by their sweet tooth and savoury cravings. Here, you will find a cosy set-up almost swallowed by a giant purple billboard, and a whole lot of rustic delicacies to try. From their iconic homemade curry bun, which does not skimp on the spice, to their fluffy tropical coconut bun, moist pandan chiffon cake, and rich Swiss Rolls lavished with fresh cream, you can taste the nostalgia of multi-generational family recipes.
4. Great Nanyang Heritage Café
Suppose you’re craving hearty Nanyang dishes to enjoy with a side of foamy, aromatic coffee. In that case, this kopitiam-style eatery is ideal before or after a long day of sightseeing. From their crispy Hainanese Chicken Cutlet slathered with rich house-made gravy to Nyonya-style Fishball Curry and crackling Prawn Paste Chicken Wing, there are plenty of flavourful protein-based delicacies to choose from. Making your affordable staycation in Singapore a foodie’s dream come true, Value Hotel Thomson is located amid the city’s vibrant gastronomic hubs.
5. Balmoral Bakery
Recognised for their traditional Eurasian bakes that have been selling like hot cakes since 1965, Balmoral Bakery sets a standard of its own with ‘old but gold’ offerings like classic buttercream cakes, melt-in-the-mouth beef pies, zingy pineapple tarts, and renowned curry puffs.
