Opened by the same folks behind Penny University, Brothers in Fine Food is a Muslim-owned halal cafe established late last year in 2016. No doubt a true hidden gem - with its inconspicuous locale on the second level of Tampines West Community Club, and an extensive menu of delicious yet creative fusion offerings inspired by a mix of modern European, Mediterranean, North African and other Asian influences. What's more all the dishes are affordably priced at nett prices. Think mains such as a plate of generously portioned beef steak with substantial sides at $14, and even a chicken waffles dish at only $8.
The interiors with its minimalistic design - contemporary wooden furnishings, cement floorings and metallic accents, add a casual chic industrial feel to the place. Fuss-free and comfortable, the space gives off a chill and relaxed vibe, perfect for lazy weekend brunches or a temporary hideout to get lunch and some work done on quiet weekday afternoons.
Butcher’s Daugher 4.5/5
The Butcher's Daughter ($14) is a dish available only on their weekend brunch menu. The highlight of the dish would be those generous pieces of sous-vide seared beef steak, lusciously tender and succulent with a slight browning on the outside in its perfect medium-rare done form. Tendons are intact, which may be less favourable with its rubbery texture and flavourless taste. Not forgetting, eggs on the side done in your selected choice of way (scrambled/sunny side-up/over easy), a generous portion of well-seasoned frites, as well as a side of salad to boot. The best part is that the dish is priced affordably at only $14. What's there not to love?
Builder’s Breakfast 4.2/5
The Builder's Breakfast ($15) comes in an assortment of the usual elements on a breakfast platter, including the rosemary chicken sausage, strips of beef bacon, mushrooms, potatoes, tomatoes, toasted sourdough with a side of salad, and eggs done in your selected choice of way. Seasoned simply with pepper and salt, all the components are decently executed and complement well with one another. I had the eggs done in scrambled form, and it leans towards the milkier and creamier side.
Moroccan Baked Eggs 4/5
The Moroccan Baked Eggs ($12) comes in slices of chicken sausage, harissa, chopped tomates, with an egg atop, and 3 pieces of toasted sourdough for dipping. It is an extremely hearty comfort dish that suffices as a filling meal by itself despite the seemingly small portion, albeit a tad too spicy.
Waffles with Fresh Fruits 3.8/5
There are different options of toppings available for the waffle, such as Nutella and cheese, Peanut butter and jelly or chicken karage and beef bacon. I had the Waffles with Fresh Fruits ($8), which comes in a thick buttery waffle with generous slices of fresh bananas, strawberries and blueberries atop. The waffle leans more towards the denser and stodgier side, though I'd prefer a fluffier version with a crispier exterior.
Nagasari 4.2/5
The Nagasari ($8) is a traditional dessert hailing from Indonesia. Intricately plated, it is an eye-catching piece in the cake display at the counter, which tastes equally unique as well. The white steamed cake with caramelised bananas boasts such a smooth and soft texture that it literally melts in the mouth. The accompaniments of gula melaka foam, sautéed coconut shavings and panadan crumbs contribute to a perfect mix of flavours and textures.
Recipes at Brothers in Fine Food undergo constant fine-tunings, and menu items are refreshed every few months to excite tastebuds and prompt revisits. As it passes its one year hallmark of operations, Brothers in Fine Food continues to draw in crowds with its remarkable fusion cafe fare and amazingly affordable prices that is hard to beat for its food quality and variety, despite its slightly obscure location.
Words and photos by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting
Brothers in Fine Food
Tampines West Community Centre
5 Tampines Ave 3
#02-07
Singapore 529705
Tel: +65 90089314
Nearest MRT: Tampines West (DT Line)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 1030pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 1030pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Tampines West MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut across the hosing estate to Tampines Street 81. Cross the road at Tampines Street 81. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]