Peh Gao Coffeeshop @ Serene Centre - Coffeeshop In The Day, Taproom In The Night

Tucked within Serene Centre, Peh Gao presents a unique dual-concept space that seamlessly shifts from a nostalgic kopitiam by day to a lively craft beer destination by night. Operating from 8am to 3pm, the daytime menu pays homage to local breakfast staples alongside hearty mains, before transforming into Orh Gao in the evening, offering Asian-inspired bar bites paired with an eclectic craft beer selection.

The morning crowd can look forward to a concise menu before 10am, featuring traditional toast and open-top sandwiches. From 10am to 2pm, the offerings expand to include a range of noodle and rice dishes, complemented by satisfying sides.

Traditional Kaya Butter Toast 5/5

Starting with the Traditional Kaya Butter Toast ($2.80), it’s easy to see why this has garnered a reputation as one of the best in town. The toast strikes an ideal balance — crisp on the outside yet thick enough to retain a soft, fluffy interior, offering a delightful textural contrast. Slathered with fragrant kaya rich in coconut and pandan notes, and layered with a generous slab of butter, each bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweetness and richness that lingers.

Mapo Tofu Udon 4.2/5

Moving on to the Mapo Tofu Udon ($12), the dish brings together elements of different cuisines in a comforting fusion bowl. Featuring silky mapo tofu, minced pork, onsen egg, and fried beancurd skin, it evokes a sense of familiarity akin to bak chor mee or even a bolognese-style pasta, with udon replacing the usual noodles for a heartier bite.

Nasi Lemak Beef Rendang 4.8/5

A standout on the menu is undoubtedly the Nasi Lemak Beef Rendang ($15). The coconut rice is aromatic and fluffy, forming the perfect base for the exceptionally tender beef cheek, which is braised until melt-in-the-mouth soft and deeply infused with rempah spices. Paired with classic accompaniments such as sambal, ikan bilis, peanuts and egg, this is a must-order dish that impresses on all fronts.

Fried Spring Rolls 3/5

The Fried Spring Rolls ($5) offer a crisp exterior, deep-fried to a golden brown. However, the radish and carrot filling lacks depth of flavour, making it less memorable than the other dishes.

Pho Ultimate 3.8/5

For something comforting, the Pho Ultimate ($19) features generous chunks of beef short rib alongside flat rice noodles, bean sprouts and fresh herbs in a spiced broth. The broth leans lighter in flavour, but the addition of condiments elevates the overall profile, resulting in a soothing bowl.

Crunchy Chicken Cartilage 3.8/5

Come evening, the space transitions into Orh Gao, where the focus shifts to bar bites and craft brews. The Crunchy Chicken Cartilage ($12) makes for an ideal accompaniment to drinks, with its well-marinated, crispy bites delivering a satisfying crunch and chew, especially when paired with chilli sauce.

Kra Pow Mee Tai Mak 4/5

Equally inventive is the Kra Pow Mee Tai Mak ($15), a creative fusion dish marrying Thai basil chicken with claypot mee tai mak. Each mouthful is packed with bold flavours — aromatic basil, a gentle heat, and the richness of the onsen egg tying everything together.

Curry Mussels 4/5

The Curry Mussels ($21) round off the experience on a comforting note. The fresh mussels are bathed in a sambal butter curry that leans slightly sweet and creamy, accompanied by focaccia bread perfect for soaking up every bit of the sauce.

Craft Beer

Of course, no visit to Orh Gao is complete without exploring its rotating selection of craft beers on tap. The diverse lineup ensures there’s something to suit every palate, making it an inviting spot to unwind.

With its thoughtful concept and well-executed menu spanning both traditional and modern flavours, Peh Gao successfully carves out its identity as both a dependable breakfast spot and a vibrant evening hangout.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Peh Gao / Orh Gao
Serene Centre
10 Jalan Serene
#01-06
Singapore 258748
Tel: +65 8749 2755
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Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens ( CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Peh Gao
Tue-Sun: 8am - 3pm
Orh Gao
Tue-Thu, Sun: 4pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 4pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Botanic Gardens MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Bukit Timah Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tanglin Cookhouse @ Tanglin Mall - All-New 90-Minute Nasi Lemak Buffet

Tanglin Cookhouse, known for its contemporary colonial cuisine, has recently launched a brand new Lemak & Co. à la carte Nasi Lemak Buffet. This 90-minute experience offers unlimited servings of 15 classic local nasi lemak dishes, spanning appetisers, mains, and desserts.

Emping Chips with Sambal Belacan

We began with Emping Chips with Sambal Belacan. The crisp belingo crackers, with their subtle bitterness, proved to be the perfect vehicle for the piquant housemade sambal.

Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce & Condiments 3.8/5

Next came the Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce & Condiments. While the chicken was well-marinated and tender, it lacked the defining smoky char typically associated with satay. The peanut sauce was decent, though I personally prefer a more savoury profile.

White Rojak Quinoa Salad 4.2/5

The White Rojak Quinoa Salad was my favourite appetiser. Its refreshing mix of jicama, cucumber, and quinoa, tossed in a fragrant ginger flower dressing, made it an excellent palate cleanser and a welcome contrast to the richer dishes.

Ayam Goreng Berempah 4.2/5

For mains, the Ayam Goreng Berempah featured succulent spice-rubbed fried chicken topped with moreish rempah crumbs.

Braised Beef Rendang 3/5

The Braised Beef Rendang, made with slow-braised beef cheek infused with coconut, galangal, and spices, was somewhat disappointing. Some pieces were tender and delicious, while others leaned dry. The gravy also came across slightly too sweet.

Sambal Barramundi with Cincalok 4.5/5

The Sambal Barramundi with Cincalok was my favourite. The pan-seared fish was moist and flaky, crowned with salty fermented shrimp that beautifully enhanced the fish’s natural sweetness.

Turmeric Coconut Rice 5/5

The true highlight of the buffet, however, was the Turmeric Coconut Rice. This basmati coconut rice, infused with turmeric, was delightfully fluffy and aromatic. Honestly, even when paired simply with a fried egg, sambal chilli, and peanuts, it was satisfying enough to stand on its own.

Yam “Orh Nee” 4.2/5

To round off the meal, the Heritage Gula Melaka Sago Pudding offered a light and refreshing finish, with fragrant palm sugar and coconut. For something more indulgent, the warm Yam “Orh Nee” with Candied Ginkgo Nuts stood out. Unlike some versions that can be overly oily, this one was thoughtfully balanced and well executed.

Lemak & Co. is available all day, Monday to Wednesday, at $29.90++ per pax (min. 2 pax, with one drink per person), from 11am onwards.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Tanglin Cookhouse
Tanglin Mall
163 Tanglin Road
#01-106
Singapore 247933
Tel: +65 6235 9382
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk straight down Grange Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Ms Durian @ Jalan Besar - Fresh Durians, Sweet and Savoury Durian Creations

Ms Durian at Jalan Besar is known for its handcrafted Mao Shan Wang (MSW) durian cakes and pastries. What's less known is that the brand also offers savoury creations and even sells fresh durians during the durian season.

MSW Cake with Durian Pod 4.5/5

Lemongrass Pandan Drink

For this harvest season, we had the chance to try the Durian Lover Set ($26.80), which includes an original MSW Cake, a Durian Pod, and a Lemongrass Pandan Drink. The chiffon sponge layer of the MSW cake was supremely fluffy and airy, and tying the sponge and MSW filling together was a light, elegant Madagascar Vanilla Chantilly Cream. I found the MSW filling slightly on the sweeter side, but overall, this MSW cake remains one of the better ones I've tried.

From their fresh durian harvest, we were also quite satisfied with the MSW selected for us. Despite the recent rainy weather, they managed to pick a good one from the lot.

King of Durian Nasi Lemak 3.8/5

Durian also incorporates durian brilliantly into one of their savoury creations - the King of Durian Nasi Lemak ($46). This hearty dish features MSW durian coconut rice topped with fresh MSW durian, fried mackerel, house-marinated chicken wing, and a sunny side up. Durian with coconut rice is not new, as it's commonly enjoyed as a dessert; however, pairing the durian with their house-made sambal introduced a different kind of chemistry and flavour interplay. The rice could have a touch more coconut richness to really stand out, and while the chicken wing was great, the fish was slightly on the dry side.

The atmosphere at Ms Durian is really cosy, allowing one to enjoy durians in all forms in a comfortable environment. It is in the midst of setting up an alfresco dining area with tents and durian stands for diners who crave an authentic roadside durian-eating experience.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Ms Durian
11 Kelantan Road
Singapore 208604
Tel: +65 69620057
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Nearest MRT: Jalan Besar (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 9am - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 9am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Jalan Besar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Jalan Besar Road towards Kelantan Road. Turn right onto Kelantan Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Oriental Kopi (华阳) @ Nex - Popular Malaysian Kopitiam Chain Opens 2nd Outlet in Singapore

Oriental Kopi, a well-known Malaysian brand, has become a familiar name among Singaporeans. After the successful launch of its first outlet at Bugis Junction, Oriental Kopi now opens its second outlet at NEX, bringing its award-winning egg tarts and authentic Nanyang flavours to the heartlands.

Oriental Egg Tarts 4/5

One of their bestsellers, the Oriental Egg Tarts ($5.20 for 2 pieces), has earned recognition in the Malaysia Book of Records for both the "Thickest Egg Tart" and the "Most Number of Egg Tarts Sold." It's a must-order whenever we visit. Served piping hot, the egg tarts feature a flaky, buttery crust and a smooth, creamy custard filling that keeps you coming back for more.

Double Butter Kaya Toast (Pandan) 4.5/5

We skipped our usual Polo Bun and tried the Double Butter Kaya Toast (Pandan), which has quickly become our new favourite. At $2.60, it features perfectly crisp toast generously spread with rich, pandan-infused kaya and a thick slab of cold butter. The Traditional version is next on our list for future visits.

Oriental Ice Mocha and Ice The 4/5

For drinks, we ordered the Oriental Ice Mocha ($4.80) and Ice Teh ($3.50), both served in large mugs. Each was well-balanced with just the right blend of richness and sweetness.

Oriental Signature Nasi Lemak 4/5

For mains, we had the Oriental Signature Nasi Lemak ($9.90), which comes with a large fried drumstick, runny poached egg, crispy ikan bilis, peanuts and sambal chilli. The rice is aromatic without being overly rich in coconut, while the drumstick steals the spotlight, perfectly seasoned and fried to golden crispiness.

Oriental Curry Laksa 4/5

We also tried the Oriental Curry Laksa ($7.90), served with a generous variety of ingredients in its rich, creamy broth, including long beans, hard-boiled egg, fried beancurd skin, fish cake, fish balls, and shredded chicken. Both mains offer excellent value with their hearty portions and variety.

Another highlight at Oriental Kopi is their range of retail products, perfect as gifts or souvenirs. Options include Traditional Pan Mee (from $1.90 per packet), brew-at-home sachets of smooth instant white coffee (from $7.30 per box), and handcrafted pineapple tarts ($18.20 per box for Classic, $21.20 for Cheese). To celebrate the Grand Opening of Oriental Kopi at NEX from 11 to 15 June 2025, diners can enjoy a special promotion: buy any three merchandise items and get one free. This exclusive five-day offer is valid while stocks last.

As part of the celebration, customers who order any Breakfast Value Set between 8am and 10am will receive a free Thermal Cup, available for both dine-in and takeaway.

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


Oriental Kopi
Nex
23 Serangoon Central
#B1-15
Singapore 556083
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Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit G or H. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Bailey & Patch Pet Cafe @ Enabling Village - A Pet Cafe, Pet Grooming Centre, and Training Ground for Special Needs and Disabilities

Bailey & Patch Pet Cafe is more than just a café tucked away in a cosy corner. It's a meaningful initiative that blends heart, hospitality, and hearty fare. As Singapore's first pet café and grooming centre that also serves as a training ground for individuals with special needs and disabilities, the space is as inclusive as it is inviting. Diners can expect a menu of affordable, comforting Asian favourites, with mains starting from $7.80 and appetisers from $3.80. Best of all, your furry companions are welcome to join, with fresh pet food available on-site.

Fried Prawn Paste Chicken Wings 4/5

The Fried Prawn Paste Chicken Wings ($6.80 for 5pc) are a crowd-pleaser. Deep-fried to a perfect golden crisp, each wing packs a punch of umami-rich prawn paste flavour. Comparable to the standard you'd expect at a solid zi char stall, they're delightfully addictive and well-executed.

Nasi Lemak with Ayam Berempah 3.8/5

A solid choice for those craving the familiar, the Nasi Lemak with Ayam Berempah ($10.80) comes with all the essentials comprising fragrant coconut rice, crunchy ikan bilis, peanuts, a fried egg, and most importantly, a piece of spiced, tender ayam berempah that delivers on both aroma and flavour. The menu allows customisation with other protein options such as curry chicken, karaage, pork chop, luncheon meat, or tempura prawn, catering to every palate.

Fried Rice with Black Pepper Roasted Chicken 4/5

The Fried Rice with Black Pepper Roasted Chicken ($11.80) hits the mark for a simple yet satisfying meal. The roasted chicken is tender, nicely seasoned, and pairs well with the egg fried rice. Like the nasi lemak, diners have the flexibility to swap proteins, from salted egg karaage to prawns or mushrooms, making it a customisable comfort dish.

Tornado Egg Rice with Mushroom Treasure 3.8/5

The Tornado Egg Rice with Mushroom Treasure ($8.80) features fluffy rice blanketed by a soft, ribbon-like omelette. Its earthy mushroom sauce seeps into every bite, creating a savoury and creamy finish. Again, you can pick your preferred protein, which adds to the dish's appeal for return visits.

Claypot Sesame Oil Chicken 4/5

A standout on the menu, the Claypot Sesame Oil Chicken ($12.80) is bold and aromatic. The rich sauce is infused with sesame oil, coating tender chunks of chicken that absorb all that savoury goodness. Served bubbling in a claypot, it's a dish best enjoyed hot and steaming.

Golden Seafood Soup 4.2/5

Looking for something comforting? The Golden Seafood Soup ($11.80) delivers. A medley of seafood ingredients is served in a robust, savoury broth that's hearty and full of flavour, perfect for a rainy day or when you just need a bowl of slurping satisfaction.

Signature Mee Goreng 4/5

The Signature Mee Goreng ($8.80) is another winning dish. Wok-fried to perfection, the springy noodles are coated in a sweet, tangy sauce that clings to every strand. A runny egg is tossed in at the end, giving the dish an extra layer of richness and depth.

Bailey & Patch is more than just a café. It's a heart-led haven where people and pets dine together in a warm, inclusive environment. The menu doesn't try to be fancy but delivers well-executed, nostalgic flavours at accessible prices. Whether you're popping by with your pup for a casual meal or supporting the café's meaningful mission, it's definitely worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bailey & Patch Pet Cafe
Enabling Village
20 Lengkok Bahru
#01-17
Singapore 159053
Tel: +65 8087 6692
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Nearest MRT: Redhill (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Redhill MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road and cut through the housing estate to Redhill Road. At Redhill road, cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes.[Map]

Brewerkz @ One Fullerton - Brand New Look and a Refreshed Menu Offering Modern European Dishes Infused with Local Flavours

Brewerkz at One Fullerton has recently reopened with a brand-new look and a refreshed menu, offering modern European dishes infused with local flavours. The updated menu introduces a range of bar bites, small plates, and mains that cater to a diverse palate.

Salted Egg Mermaid Fish 3.5/5

The Salted Egg Mermaid Fish, Crispy Tofu Fritters, and Baby Squid & Calamari are some new additions to the Bar Bites. The Salted Egg Mermaid Fish ($12) delivered a satisfying crunch without being overly sauced, but the salted egg flavour was a tad too subtle.

Crispy Tofu Fritters 3.5/5

The Crispy Tofu Fritters ($12), more like tofu fries, were sprinkled with Szechuan peppercorn and sesame. While the peppercorn wasn't very pronounced, the sesame provided a savoury-sweet contrast that worked well.

Baby Squid & Calamari 3.5/5

The Baby Squid & Calamari ($18) combined the best of both worlds with a well-seasoned batter, although the accompanying sour plum mayo dip lacked the expected sour plum notes.

Memphis Baby Back Ribs 4.5/5

Nasi Lemak Focaccilla 2/5

We had a couple of appetisers - Nasi Lemak Focaccilla ($22) and Memphis Babyback Ribs ($20). The Nasi Lemak Focaccilla, intended to be a hybrid of focaccia and quesadilla, turned out more like a dry quesadilla with a thin spread of rendang and hardboiled egg bits. However, the Memphis Babyback Ribs were a standout, with tender meat glazed in a smoky BBQ sauce that was finger-licking good.

Wagyu Steak & Frites 4/5

The mains offered a more refined dining experience. The Wagyu Steak & Frites ($74) was satisfying, with a beautifully grilled Wagyu Ribeye (MBS4-5) that rendered enough fat to deliver a rich, buttery flavour, enhanced by a red wine reduction and a hint of smokiness. The chunkier Sidewalker Fries were a great complement to the steak.

Apple Bacon Pork T-Bone 2.8/5

The Apple Bacon Pork T-Bone ($34) was served with apple bacon sauce, onion chutney, and confit potatoes. While the fruity sweetness of the apple bacon sauce helped cut through the pork's richness, the gaminess was a bit overwhelming. The buttery, soft confit potatoes, however, were indulgent and enjoyable.

Pugliam Seafood Stew 2/5

Unfortunately, the Pugliam Seafood Stew ($36) was disappointing, presenting itself as more of a pasta-in-cream dish. It seemed hastily prepared, with orecchiette pasta, bits of fish, squid rings, sliced scallops, and prawns thrown into a weak cream sauce. The broth lacked the depth of flavour, and the prawns should have at least been deveined for the price.

Sour Cherry Crumble 4.2/5

The highlight of the evening was the Sour Cherry Crumble ($18). It was divine, with a base of dark tart cherries topped with sweet, chunky walnut crumble and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Brewerkz
One Fullerton
1 Fullerton Road
#01-01
Singapore 049213
Tel: +65 96431571
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 12midnight

Direction
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Clifford Centre and then Change Alley. Take escalator to level 2. Cross the road using the OUE Link. Turn left towards Fullerton Bay Hotel. Walk to towards the bay and destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]