Chin Mee Chin Confectionery @ East Coast Road - Iconic Katong Coffee Shop Celebrates 100th Anniversary

Since 1925, Chin Mee Chin Confectionery has stood proudly at its original location, charming generations with its iconic kaya toast, homemade kaya spread, classic kopi and teh, and soft-boiled eggs.

Fast forward to 2025, the heritage cafe is now celebrating an incredible 100 years with a time-limited expanded menu designed to appeal to both long-time regulars and curious tourists.

Kaya Toast Set with Milo Dinosaur 4/5

No trip to Chin Mee Chin is complete without their signature kaya toast. We opted for the Kaya Toast Set with Milo Dinosaur ($7.30), which featured large, fresh, soft-boiled eggs and soft buns with a generous slab of cold butter and house-made kaya. We enjoyed how the kaya leaned less sweet, balancing the richness of the butter.

Curry Pork Chop 3.8/5

From the anniversary menu came the Curry Pork Chop ($8.80). The curry sauce was fragrant and rich, but it was a pity that the pork slices were slightly on the dry side. Still, it was a pretty hearty plate.

Braised Pork Belly with Preserved Mustard Greens 4/5

This Braised Pork Belly with Preserved Mustard Greens ($10.80) was a pleasant surprise. The pork belly was melt-in-the-mouth tender, and the preserved mustard greens were well-seasoned without overpowering the dish. Great for sharing, though a full portion could get a bit heavy if dining solo.

Peanut Butter French Toast 3.8/5

We rounded off with the Peanut Butter French Toast ($7), made from soft shokupan dipped in egg batter. While the toast was lightly crispy with a lovely eggy aroma, we wished for more peanut butter filling and a touch more honey drizzle to balance the richness. Other flavours, such as Kaya and Nutella, are also available for $6.

To mark this milestone, Chin Mee Chin is also releasing limited-edition ‘Chin Mee Chin 100’ t-shirts in black, white, beige, and dark green starting 1 July, while stocks last. From 1 to 15 August, spend $25 or more to receive a blind bag keychain featuring miniature icons from the brand, and stand a chance to win the grand prize: a 2D1N stay at Artyzen Singapore.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chin Mee Chin Confectionery
204 East Coast Road
Singapore 428903
Tel: +65 6904 9688
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Website
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 4pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take exit A. Walk to bus stop at Blk 99 Old Airport Road (Stop ID 81181). Take Bus 10 or 32. Alight 7 stops later opposite Holy Family Church. Cross the traffic light at traffic juntion and walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes.[Map]

2) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Chapel Road. Turn left onto Chapel Road. Walk down Chapel Road to East Coast Road. Cross the road at East Coast Road. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine (湘香湖南菜) @ Parkway Parade - Expanding its Footprint to 15 Outlets with New Creations

Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine continues to win over Singaporean diners with its authentic Hunan flavours and comforting dishes. Officially opened on 15 March 2025, the 15th outlet at Parkway Parade introduces a line-up of exclusive new dishes that bring even more to love this well-loved brand.

Sizzling Claypot Chicken 4.2/5

Simmered in a claypot with a savoury housemade sauce, the Sizzling Claypot Chicken (Non-Member: $22.90, Member: $18.90) delivers a homely richness that pairs perfectly with their signature 五常米 (Wǔcháng mǐ) rice. The tender chicken soaks up the mildly spicy sauce beautifully, and we’re hoping to see this comforting dish rolled out across all outlets soon.

Stir-fry Spicy Squid Tentacles 3/5

Visually appealing and bold in flavour, the Stir-fry Spicy Squid Tentacles (Non-Member: $22.90, Member: $18.90) is punchy and aromatic. However, the cumin-forward profile may not suit every palate, and we found the tentacles would have benefitted from being cut into larger pieces to better retain their texture.

Braised Beef Brisket with Whole Tomato 3.5/5

This dish brings to mind a hearty Italian Bolognese with a twist. The Braised Beef Brisket with Whole Tomato (Non-Member: $22.90, Member: $19.90) features slow-braised brisket in a tangy tomato broth that’s rich, warming and surprisingly addictive.

Claypot Sweet and Spicy Prawns 3.8/5

As part of the brand's mainstays from other outlets in February, the Claypot Sweet and Spicy Prawns (Non-Member: $22.90, Member: $19.90) stand out. Fresh prawns are gently simmered in a claypot with a secret sauce blend that evokes a touch of spicy Japanese curry. The addition of tender potato chunks soaking up the flavour is a lovely touch.

Braised Luffa 3.8/5

While we usually choose cauliflower as our go-to veggie dish, the Braised Luffa (Non-Member: $15.90, Member: $12.90) surprised us with its delicate sweetness. The luffa is light and refreshing, and the dough fritters were mistaken at first glance for tau pok.

Hunan Stir-Fry Pork 4.5/5

Our must-order at every Xiang Xiang visit, the Hunan Stir-Fry Pork ($19.90), remains a bestseller for a reason. Over 200,000 servings are sold annually. It's easy to see why. Spanish Iberico pork is stir-fried with fiery Shandong screw peppers and crunchy Yunnan white fungus, creating a crave-worthy medley of textures and spice.

Roasted Chili & Century Egg with Mashed Eggplant 4/5

A chilled appetiser with vivid flavour, the Roasted Chili & Century Egg with Mashed Eggplant (Non-Member: $12.90, Member: $11.90) hits all the right notes — pungent, creamy, and deeply savoury. The interplay between the smoky eggplant, spicy roasted chilli, and umami-rich century egg is absolutely moreish.

Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine's newest outlet at Parkway Parade not only expands the brand's footprint but also introduces fresh creations that highlight its commitment to flavour, quality ingredients, and thoughtful presentation. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Hunan cuisine, this is a great time to rediscover its offerings, especially if you live in the East. We're excited to see what's next as Xiang Xiang continues its journey across Singapore.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine
Parkway Parade
80 Marine Parade Road
#01-30
Singapore 449269
Tel: +65 9137 4773
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Nearest MRT: Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Spruce Petite @ East Coast Road - Up Its Game with A New Revamped Menu

We visited Spruce Petite in May when it was just a couple of months old. Recently, they have revamped their menu based on diner feedback, showcasing their dedication to continuous improvement — a quality we greatly appreciate in a sincere F&B establishment. Additionally, they now offer an impressive array of cocktails.

Mala King Mushroom Skewers 4.5/5

We began our meal with their featured bar bites, each priced at just $12. The Mala King Mushroom Skewers were perfectly grilled and dusted in a fragrant mala spice mix that delivered a numbing, spicy kick. We loved how the mushrooms retained their juiciness, leaving us eager for more.

Korean Style Chicken Wingettes 4/5

The next bar bite we tried was the Korean Style Chicken Wingettes, which left a lasting impression. Despite being coated in a spicy sauce, the wingettes remained crispy. The sauce struck a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, enhancing the overall flavour.

Yakitori Skewers 3/5

The last bar bite we sampled was the Yakitori Skewers, featuring tender chunks of chicken that were nicely charred. However, we found the marinade a bit on the sweet side for our taste. Despite this, the skewers were still enjoyable and great with a drink or two.

Chili Soft Shell Crab 3.8/5

They also offer two specials on the bar bites menu. We tried the Chilli Soft Shell Crab ($24), featuring crispy fried soft-shell crab in a sweet chilli sauce reminiscent of Singapore's national chilli crab. A unique twist to this dish is the inclusion of an onsen egg, rather than having the egg cooked into the sauce as in traditional chilli crab. We craved for some bread or mantou to mop up the delightful dish. Another special item on the menu is the Fresh Oysters ($20 for 6pcs), available exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays.

Ribeye Steak 4/5

For mains, we started with the Ribeye Steak ($28) served with black pepper sauce, which truly satisfied our steak cravings. We requested it medium rare, and it was served just as we liked it - nicely grilled to perfection. The steak was impeccably seasoned and incredibly tender, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Accompanying the steak were flavourful potato pieces and a side of juicy tomatoes, which complemented the dish wonderfully.

Classic Fish & Chips 4/5

Next, we tried the Classic Fish & Chips ($18), a classic that did not disappoint. The fish was beautifully battered and fried to a golden crisp, while the inside remained tender and flaky. Paired with perfectly cooked, crispy fries and a tangy tartar sauce, it was a delightful dish to share or have on your own.

Classic Beef Burger 4/5

Lastly, the Classic Beef Burger ($14) was served with golden crispy fries. A juicy grilled beef patty nestled between soft, toasted buns was complemented by crisp lettuce, tomato, and a thick slice of cheddar cheese. This classic never goes wrong and is perfect any time of day.

Fire Dragon 3.8/5 (top left), Harley Quinn 3.5/5 (top right), Malaysian Assam Laksa 4/5 (bottom)

Adding to the revamped menu is a cocktail menu featuring a curated selection of speciality cocktails priced at $18 each or 3 for $45. Among them is the distinctive Malaysian Assam Laksa, boasting a fragrant blend of spices with a gentle kick of heat, offering a truly unique flavour experience unlike anything else we've tasted. For a refreshing option, the Fire Dragon delights with its fresh dragon fruit juice base. Lastly, the visually stunning Harley Quinn, inspired by the Suicide Squad, is captivated by its beauty but leans towards a sweeter profile.

Godfather 3.8/5

We also savoured the Godfather, a pleasantly delightful concoction featuring whiskey with a pronounced sweet almond flavour profile. Lastly, the X-rated Margarita, crafted with Jose Cuervo Tequila, perfectly complements its salted glass rim, offering a sophisticated and balanced taste experience.

You can also make your own cocktail for $28 and choose your flavour and type of alcohol. Just let the mixologist know and be surprised!

Weekend Specials: Enjoy 2 hours of free-flow Oysters, Wine and Prosecco at $40++ per pax from 12pm.

Starting from 30th June, Spruce Petite is launching a brunch menu every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-2pm featuring Pancake with Blueberry Jam ($8), Crispy Bread with Sous Vide Egg ($8), Avocado Toasties ($12), Ham & Cheese Toasties ($12) and English Breakfast Set ($18)

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


[CLOSED]
Spruce Petite
19 East Coast Road
Singapore 428746
Tel: +65 9068 9249
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 3pm - 11pm
Fri: 3pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: 10am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10 or 32. Alight 6 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Brooke Road. Turn right onto Brooke Road. Walk down Brooke Road to East Coast Road. Cross the road, turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.  [Map]

What To Eat Along the New TE Line Between Tanjong Rhu to Bayshore Station.

MRT TE Line (Stage 4) will be officially opened on 23 June 2024 to the public. Stage 4 of the Thomson-East Coast line will see another 7 stations along the brown line. The Stage 4 of the brown line stretching beteween Tanjong Rhu to Bayshore will serve the residents in the East. 

The 7 new stations are as follow:

TE23: Tanjong Rhu
TE24: Katong Park
TE25: Tanjong Katong
TE26: Marine Parade
TE27: Marine Terrace
TE28: Siglap
TE29: Bayshore

I have put together a brief list of the restaurants and eateries when you can find along the stage 4 of the new Thomson-East Coast (TE) Line that are worthy to check out.

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Tanjong Rhu Station

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Song Yue Taiwan Cuisine (松悦台式料理)

Showcase of Taiwanese Homestyle Specialities Alongside Exquisite Fine Teas. Song Yue Taiwan Cuisine (松悦台式料理), a celebration of Taiwan's culinary heritage, has left an indelible mark on my gastronomic journey this year. The restaurant, a gem nestled in the heart of Singapore, artfully crafts a menu that accentuates the natural goodness of seasonal produce. Recommending it to friends has become a familiar refrain, and I'm already planning a return for another delightful dinner.

Song Yue Taiwan Cuisine
(松悦台式料理)
5 Stadium Walk
#01-38/39
Singapore 397693
Tel: +65 6988 3322
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One Pot (一锅)

Cheap & Quality Hotpot In A Ulu Food Centre. In my wildest imagination I would not have imagine having hotpot in an ulu food centre that I have not even known of its existence. It is located at a quite corner in Kallang Park. Even all the stalls were closed except for One Pot during my visit. However the place is packed with people having hotpot.

One Pot (一锅)
56 Jalan Benaan Kapal
Stall #54
Singapore 399644
Tel: +65 90077959
Facebook

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Marine Parade Station

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Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant (嘉味)

Timeless Flavours, Modern Twists: Rediscovering Jia Wei's Culinary Charms. After a hiatus, I recently dined at Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant (嘉味) at Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy, and I was delighted to discover that the restaurant's culinary standards remain consistent. Jia Wei offers a unique blend of homely, traditional dishes infused with a modern touch while staying true to its classic roots.

Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant (嘉味)
Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy
50 East Coast Road
Marine Parade Road
Singapore 428769
Tel: +65 6340 5678
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Instagram
Website

The Feather Blade

The Feather Blade Steakhouse, renowned for its commitment to alternative cuts of beef, ventures into the East Coast with its second outlet. This new establishment introduces a seafood bar, showcasing delectable treasures from the sea, and debuts store-exclusive surf and turf dishes. In the spirit of melding the boldest flavours from the land with the sweetest offerings from the sea, The Feather Blade Steakhouse aims to provide a unique surf and turf steakhouse experience that resonates with Singaporeans' love for both steak and seafood.

The Feather Blade | Steak & Seafood Bar
225 East Coast Road
Singapore 428922
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Instagram
Website

Merci Marcel Katong

Merci Marcel's 4th outlet sits in the heart of Katong, their first venture into the East. Located in Santa Grand Hotel, the casual French restaurant is decked out in a fun new colonial and contemporary interior.

Merci Marcel
171 East Coast Road
Singapore 428877
Tel: +65 6015 0906
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Chin Mee Chin Confectionery

Located along East Coast Road at the corner of East Coast Road and Chapel Road, is this nostalgia old school confectionery with mosaic floor tiles and marbled top tables. A mnust have is its signature Chin Mee Chin Kaya Bun. The toasted bun with its crisp outer and fluffy inside, spreads with the fragant kaya was like marriage in heaven.

Chin Mee Chin Confectionery
204 East Coast Road
Singapore 428903
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Website

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Marine Terrace Station

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Comida Mexicana

Same same but different that is exactly how I would describe Comida Mexicana at East Coast Road. Managed by the same folk behind Margarita's, the team has revamped its outlet in East Coast Road and created a new casual and convivial dining concept offering Mexican food which in Spanish is the name of the restaurant - Comida Mexicana.

Comida Mexicana
404 East Coast Road
Singapore 428998
Tel: +65 64408030
Facebook

The Long Weekend Pizza

The Long Weekend Pizza. A very cool home business pizza concept by 3 brothers and a friend. A home business selling genuine wood-fired pizza on Fri, Sat and Sun, 530pm to 9pm. Strictly via pre-order only for collection.

The Long Weekend Pizza
61 St Patrick's Road
Singapore 424174
Tel: +65 89130331
Facebook
Instagram

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Siglap Station

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Diamond Kitchen (钻石小厨)
In an blink of an eye,the restaurant has been around for 14 years. Who would expect there is a Chinese restaurant located inside Laguna PArk Condominium. I still remember my first visit ten years ago after an article by Straits Times food critic Wong Ah Yoke brought it to fame. The restaurant saw snaking queues overnight, and I heard they even had to turn away customers. Current that the restaurant continues to maintain its standard and quality, dishing out delicious dishes.

Diamond Kitchen (钻石小厨)
Laguna Park Condominium
5000F Marine Parade Road
#01-22/23
Singapore 449289
Tel: +65 64480629
Facebook
Website


I hope the brief list will be a handy and useful guide for you to explore the new Thomson-East Coast Line (Stage 4). I will try to update it whenever I discovered more worthy restaurants/eateries to recommend along the new line. If you have recommendations, do feel free to leave a comment so I can share it with other readers too.

Spruce Petite @ East Coast Road - Pet Friendly Restaurant with All Day Brunch

Spruce Petite is the latest addition to the vibrant dining scene on East Coast Road, offering a unique dual experience. During the day, it serves as a pet-friendly restaurant with an all-day brunch menu. By night, it transforms into a gastropub, providing a delightful selection of bar bites complemented by an extensive beverage list that includes wine, spirits, and cocktails.

Kok Kok Satay 3.5/5

We began our meal with the Kok Kok Satay ($10), whimsically named for its playful twist on traditional chicken satay. The chicken skewers were grilled to a tender perfection with a slight char on the exterior. However, the lack of smokiness hinted that they were likely grilled over an electric grill rather than charcoal. Despite this, the accompanying peanut sauce was spot on, adding a rich, savoury complement to the satay.

Garlic Butter Prawn Aglio Olio Pasta 3/5

Next, we tried the Garlic Butter Prawn Aglio Olio Pasta ($16). This dish, featuring spaghetti cooked with garlic, olive oil, and chilli padi, delivered a satisfying spicy kick. While it was a safe and decent choice, it could have been more extraordinary. It's a reliable option if you're in the mood for a classic pasta dish.

Pork Benny 3.5/5

From the brunch menu, we sampled the Pork Benny ($15). This dish combines marinated slow-cooked pulled pork and sous vide egg, resting atop a homemade English muffin and dressed in hollandaise sauce. The different components came together harmoniously, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that left a positive impression.

Beef Sausage & Potato Rosti 3.8/5

Another brunch item we tried was the Beef Sausage & Potato Rosti ($15). The highlight of this dish was the potato rosti, which boasted a crispy exterior and was topped with a perfectly poached egg, all tied together by a drizzle of hollandaise sauce. The smoked beef sausage was equally delicious, making this a standout item on the brunch menu.

Spruce Petite adds a refreshing dynamic to East Coast Road's versatile offerings. Whether you're looking for a pet-friendly brunch spot or a lively gastropub experience in the evening, this new establishment has something for everyone. While not uniformly exceptional, the dishes provide reliable and satisfying options, with some standout items worth trying. I understand they will revamp their menu soon, so do look out for that.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Spruce Petite
19 East Coast Road
Singapore 428746
Tel: +65 9068 9249
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 3pm - 11pm
Fri: 3pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: 1030am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10 or 32. Alight 6 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Brooke Road. Turn right onto Brooke Road. Walk down Brooke Road to East Coast Road. Cross the road, turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.  [Map]