Serangoon & Kovan: Singapore’s New Foodie Hotspots
Forget the old‑school hype that only central Singapore can dish out the best eats. The northeast is now where the food scene is grinding: cafés, trendy restaurants, and bakery stalls are popping up like pop‑corn at a movie set. Ready to see what’s on the menu?
Why the Berita is One Big “Yum”
- From hawker staple stalls that have been sizzling for decades, to hipster cafés with latte art that makes your eyebrows pop.
- Unexpected trendy eateries that have up‑graded the entire neighbourhood, giving locals and tourists a new go‑to for brunch and nightcaps.
- Flavor‑rich bakeries that deliver the sweet side of life, and are perfect for those who love a good morning pastry.
Must‑Visit Spots to Keep You Cravings Happy
- Serangoon Old Town Café – A quirky little place that blends vintage vibes with contemporary recipes. Perfect for a relaxed Monday brunch.
- Kovan Espresso Bar – Their signature hand‑crafted grahams coffee will give you a caffeine kick that lasts for hours.
- Bakery Point Serangoon – Enjoy hand‑made pastries, from croissants to cinnamon rolls.
- Yummy Pancake House Kovan – Eat, laugh and even remember your favourite breakfast dish of the day.
Walking the Food Trail
Start early at the Serangoon market, where locals taste crackling mee goreng and dim sum. Then hop across to Kovan, where the cafés are waiting for you to check out their sound‑track of steam‑makes and morning laughter. Make your way back to central set with the new speciality of the perfect squeezed Wensamn that will keep you caffeinated all day long.
Why This All Matters
It matters because the food experience in these places is unlike anything central Singapore has ever offered. The blend of dining flair and the harmonic restaurant vibe creates a unique foodscape that is in no way “just amazing” – it is giving a good dose of gusto for all who want to stay up‑to‑date with interesting flavours.
Restaurants
Hajime Tonkatsu & Ramen
From Nippon to Singapore: Tan‑San, the Tonkatsu Trailblazer
Who Is the Man Behind the First Tonkatsu Kitchen in Singapore?
Tan‑San is more than a chef—he’s a culinary pioneer who brought a slice of Japan straight to the Lion City. He spent years honing his craft in Japan before returning to Singapore in the 1990s to launch the very first Tonkichi restaurant.
Why All the Rave About the Premium Pork Loin Set?
It’s a masterpiece: a succulent pork loin, deep‑fried to a crisp golden perfection, with a umami‑rich miso sauce sourced from Nagoya that’s as authentic as it gets. Every bite is a reminder of Tan‑San’s dedication to tasting and perfection.
- Air‑flown Japanese pork that’s as tender as a cloud
- Freshly‑made breadcrumbs—no old‑school fried‑oil fluff here
- Crunchy, shredded cabbage that adds the “blah‑blah” wow factor
- Rice from Niigata, milled to buttery supreme—who’s the real hero of the plate?
Unlimited Portions (Because Shawallies Love Leftovers)
If you order the premium set, both the shredded cabbage and rice come in unlimited quantities, so you can keep stuffing your plate until it practically asks for a break. (We’re fully prepared for your “more please” requests.)
How to Find Him (And Grab a Bite)
Hajime Tonkatsu & Ramen is tucked away in myVillage @ Serangoon Gardens at 1 Maju Avenue (Suite #02‑07/8/9). Give them a ring at +65 6509 9952 to reserve a seat.
Hours: Open daily from 11:30 am–3:15 pm and 5:00 pm–9:30 pm.
Bottom Line
Tan‑San didn’t just create a menu; he redefined what Singaporean diners expect from tonkatsu. So next time you’re craving that golden crunch and savory depth, you know exactly where to satisfy those cravings—don’t forget to bring a fork and a hunger for adventure!
Baci Baci
Baci Baci: A Secret Slice of Italy in Serangoon Gardens
Hidden away in a cozy nook of the Serangoon Gardens neighbourhood, Baci Baci offers a pint‑sized slice of Italy without the jet lag. The place pulls straight from the Italian pantry: cured meats, aged cheeses, sun‑kissed olives—all imported to give you the real deal.
Menu Highlights
- Antipasto Baci (about $42, shared by two people) – a platter that feels like a carnival of flavors: crisp cold cuts, supple cheeses, fresh veggies, and bruschetta that’ll make your taste buds dance.
- Classic Napoletana pizza – utterly cheesy, perfectly blistered crust.
- Hand‑made tagliatelle tossed with a drizzle of black truffle – exotic, fragrant, and utterly decadent.
- Hearty meat and seafood mains that’ll have you saying “more, please.”
- And you simply can’t miss the homemade tiramisu – sweet, airy, and heart‑warming.
- Finish with an authentic Italian espresso that packs a punch.
Get Your Italian Fix
Drop in at 27 Lichfield Rd, Singapore 556847 or call +65 9820 7969 or 6243 7036. They’re open all day: 12 pm–2 pm and then 6 pm–10 pm for a night‑time feast.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just craving something that feels like home-away-from-home, Baci Baci promises a deliciously authentic Italian experience that’s warm, welcoming, and just a bit whisper‑sweetly secret.
Tachinomiya
Discover Singapore’s Hidden Izakaya Gem in Kovan
Looking for a taste of Japan that doesn’t break the bank? Let Tachinomiya take you on a culinary adventure right in the heart of Kovan. Nestled inside an HDB block, this cozy joint sits just a hop away from Hatter Street and Nakhon Kitchen, making it a perfect pitstop for locals and tourists alike.
What Makes It Special
- Intimate Setting: With a seating capacity of about 20, you’ll feel like you’re dining in a friend’s living room rather than a bustling restaurant.
- Amazing Variety: From appetizers and salads to sashimi, sushi, and kushiyaki, there’s something that tickles every palate.
- Budget‑Friendly: The kushiyaki skewers start at only $2, while the drinks menu boasts both quality sake and whisky.
- Chatty Atmosphere: The laid‑back vibe is perfect for a relaxed night with good food and even better company.
When to Swing By
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 11:30 am – 2:30 pm & 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm
- Sat–Sun: 11:30 am – 11:30 pm
Location & Contact
Address: 211 Hougang Street 21, #01‑285, Singapore 530211
Phone: +65 6286 0738
Want to try a quick run? Tachinomiya is ready to serve up tasty Japanese street food without the pretentious pricing. Grab a seat, order some kushiyaki, and let the good times roll—one of those nights where you’ll leave with both a full belly and a happy heart.
Chong Qing Grilled Fish
Chong Qing Grilled Fish: Sizzling Seafood Magic
Right next to the classic Serangoon Gardens roundabout, this spot was the first in Singapore to rock the sizzling seafood scene back in 2010. If you’re a fish fanatic, you’re in for a treat!
Why People Love It
- Big Portions – Generous servings of golden snapper, sea bass, and that secret‑sauce patin fish.
- Flavor Explosion – Pick from a smorgasbord of broths: from rich fermented black bean to fresh mushroom‑herb blends.
- Heat Seekers Welcome – Dare to dive into the fiery hot broth or the newly added spicy Assam version.
Where to Find It
Address: 2 Maju Avenue, Singapore 556680
Phone: +65 6702 6680
Hours: Open every day from 12 pm to 2 am – because great fish doesn’t wait for the clock.
Kor Kai
Discover a Taste of Thailand on 1 Maju Avenue
Kor Kai is the fresh spin‑off from the beloved Un‑Yang‑Kor‑Dai on South Bridge Road, bringing true Isaan flavors to Singapore without the hefty price tag.
What’s on the menu?
- Tom Yum Soup – the classic spicy-sour delight that has fans swearing by it.
- Thai Grilled Chicken – juicy, char‑framed, and only $8.90.
- Five‑Hour Braised Pork Knuckle – tender, caramelised and also $8.90.
- Isaan Beef Ribeye Steak with Rice – a ribeye kissed by a Thai‑style marination, served with a fiery tamarind‑chili dip, all for $13.50.
Why Vibe Here?
Seated for 32 diners, Kor Kai feels like a relaxed family kitchen – great for bragging to friends about a plate that screams “homestyle Thai” without breaking the bank.
Location & Hours
Address: 1 Maju Ave #B1-25, Singapore, 556679
Phone: +65 6509 4220
Open: Daily 11 am – 9 pm
Monzen@Gardens
Monzen@Gardens – A Hidden Japanese Delight in the Heart of Gardens 2
Alfred Ng’s latest venture, Monzen@Gardens, sits comfortably tucked in a corner of the bustling Gardens 2. The spot is all about that intimate, communal dining vibe: small plates that you can share with friends and a lineup of Japanese‑inspired rice bowls that come with fresh sashimi daily.
Menu Highlights
- Bara Chirashi Don – $15.80++
A playful mix of chopped salmon, tuna, and swordfish sashimi, all kissed with homemade shoyu. Let the flavors dance on your tongue! - Wagyu Beef Don – $19.80++
Picture thin slices of pan‑seared Wagyu, topped with a silky onsen egg and aromatic garlic chips. Talk about a lip‑smacking treat. - And there’s a whole array of other small plates and rice bowls that will keep your taste buds curious.
Pricing & Logistics
- All prices include ++, meaning you’ll also pay the standard service and tax.
- Location: 1 Maju Ave, #01‑09, Singapore 556679
- Phone: +65 8383 9977
- Hours: Daily 11:30 am–2:30 pm & 5:30 pm–10:00 pm.
Why This Spot Rocks
Picture a cozy corner where every dish feels like a conversation starter. Whether you’re bringing a crew or dining solo, the menu’s bite‑sized portions and fresh sashimi mean you get to explore a whole spectrum of flavors without the pressure of a full meal. And the vibe? It’s relaxed, a tad quirky, yet super classy. A great place to unwind after a long day or to win over a foodie friend.
Next Time You’re in the Area, Drop By!
Monzen@Gardens isn’t just about delicious food—it’s about good company, good vibes, and a culinary adventure you’ll want to share. So grab a friend, text the phone number, and get ready for a taste of Japan right in the middle of Singapore’s most vibrant garden.
Nic & Tom Eatery
Nic & Tom Eatery: Where Cheddar Meets the Sea in a Joyful Mash‑up
Origin Story at a Glance
Catch the culinary adventure of cousins Nicholas Lim and Tommy Pang, who transformed their shared kitchen dreams into a real‑life eatery that’s winning hearts (and taste buds) across the city.
The Must‑Try Menu Highlights
- Seafood Cheese Beehoon – $9.90
Think of it as a noodle party where springy bean sticks party with a cheddar‑laden seafood broth, prawn confetti, scallop sprinkles, a swirl of mixed paste, and a mock‑abalone swagger. - Braised Pig Trotter
A cozy, slow‑cooked dish that pairs perfectly with either a humble rice bowl or silky vermicelli; comfort food at its finest. - Tuckshop Rice – $1.90 (One per Guest)
Picture steamed pearl rice topped with a sunny‑side‑up egg that flips to a crisp, buttery exterior, all crowned with a slice of golden fried pork. It’s the village staple that keeps everyone coming back.
Location & Hours
Address: 55 Serangoon Garden Way, Singapore 555951
Phone: +65 6789 9696
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (every day)
Why It’s Trending
From the instant “cheese hug” vibes of the beehoon to the nostalgic crunch of Tuckshop rice, Nic & Tom Eatery mixes classic comfort with a playful twist that sparks foodie joy far beyond the corners of Serangoon Garden.
Cafes
Lola’s Cafe
Lola’s Cafe: Where Brunch Bites & Chill Vibes Meet
Ever since it opened in 2013, Lola’s Cafe has been the brunch hotspot that keeps the buzz alive. With a fun, casual setting and a menu that grows as big as your appetite, it’s no surprise people keep coming back.
What Makes It a Hit
- Playful surroundings: Think bright décor that makes you feel at home.
- Expert coffee: From coffee blends that wow to steaming hot cups.
- Brunch staples that get a sprinkle of new ideas.
- Comfort mains and seafood that dish out total vibes.
Menu Highlights
Eggs Benedict gets a snazzy upgrade with a side that’s almost a showstopper.
- Hand‑crafted crab cakes – a $19 bite of ocean‑liciousness.
- 6‑hour smoked chipotle pulled pork with smashed avocado – $16 of pure flavor.
For lunch and dinner, the menu is a sea of options that pair amicably with your favorite craft beers, while the desserts—tarts, cakes, and dessert waffles—are the cherry on top.
Sweet Treats
Your sweet tooth will thank you for taking a bite of the daring tarts and cakes, or the cheeky dessert waffles. Trust us, they’re worth it.
Visit Us
Address: 5 Simon Road, Singapore 545893
Phone: +65 6284 0349
Hours: Open daily from 10 am to 10:30 pm. Closed on the last Monday of each month.
Whether you’re a brunch enthusiast or just in for a cozy meal, Lola’s Cafe ensures you leave with a big grin. Enjoy!
Lickers
Lickers: Your Late‑Night Ice Cream & Waffle Haven
In the sleepy heartland of Lorong Ah Soo, dessert seekers carve a quiet path to Lickers – a tiny creamery that’s proudly crafting artisanal ice cream in 16 hand‑picked flavors. No synthetic additives, no pre‑made mixes – just pure, small‑batch goodness.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
- Flavor Diversity – From classic vanilla to daring matcha or salted caramel, each scoop is a story in itself.
- Fresh Waffles – Grab a thick slab (price: $7.50) that’s forever crisp on the outside and a fluffy cloud inside.
- Late‑Night Vibes – Open till 2 a.m. – perfect for those after‑dark cravings.
Opening Hours
Tue–Thu: 1 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Fri–Sun: 12 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Closed: Monday
Location
124 Hougang Avenue 1, #01‑1446, Singapore 530124
Ice Edge Cafe
Ice Edge Café: Where Western Comfort Meets Family Vibes
Just a hop, skip, and a hop from Lola’s Café, Ice Edge Café sits on Kovan Road, ready to take you on a tasty adventure that’s all about good food and great company.
What’s on the Menu?
- Seafood Aglio Olio Spaghetti – a saucy twist on an Italian classic that will make your taste buds dance. ($16.80+)
- Pizza Awesome – not your everyday pizza, this one is dressed with roasted chicken, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and a sprinkle of love. ($16.8+)
- Black Pepper Beef Stew – imagine a bowl of Australian beef shin simmered for three slow hours in a comforting brown sauce (feel the warmth!). ($19.80+)
Don’t Skimp on Desserts!
Meal done? Time to hit the sweet spot. Ice Edge offers a gelato lineup that’s almost 21 flavors deep. Bring home those creamy pints for a chill treat later.
Location & Hours
Ice Edge Café is at 2 Kovan Rd, #01-10 Simon Plaza, Singapore 548008. Need us? Call +65 6858 5729.
Open:
- Mon‑Fri: 11:30 am‑3:00 pm & 5:30 pm‑10:30 pm
- Sat: 11:30 am‑10:30 pm
- Sun: 11:30 am‑10:00 pm
Drop in, grab a bite, and feel the warm family vibe!
Amber Ember
Feels Like a Pink‑Tinted Aussie Oasis in Singapore
Ever wished you could summer‑wander without leaving your city? The Amber Ember cafe, spilling pink hues and tottering hipster vibes, gives you that Aussie coffee‑house magic right on Upper Serangoon Road.
Breakfast All‑Day, and No Rules on When
In Australia, they say breakfast isn’t a “time‑boxed” meal – you can chow down whenever the heart desires. And Amber Ember nails it. From dawn till dusk, you can order a stack or a mix, whether that means a classic cheese toast, a chunky mushroom croissant, or one of their “brioche‑pressed” wonder‑foods.
Star of the Menu – Jaffles
- Made in a cast‑iron skillet for that irresistible crunch.
- More than just a sandwich – think roasted mushrooms, velvety truffle béchamel, melty mozzarella, and a splash of dill‑yogurt dressing for zesty flair.
- Starts at just S$11 – you’ll get your “just‑do‑it” coffee energy, no harm to the wallet.
Other Must‑Try Items
- Three good‑old‑fashioned toasted sourdoughs plus creative side‑sticks – have you tried a veggie sandwich infused with pesto?
- Breakfast bowls that pack a protein punch for the morning hustle.
- Buttermilk waffles that practically sing “smooth, airy, and incredibly fluffy.”
- Full‑strength pastas that genuinely make you dream of the sea.
Fuelled by Cata Coffee
The cafe’s brews are born from Cata Coffee, a local roastery that lets you taste the craft of hand‑roasted beans. A single sip is like a warm hug sprinkled with subtle notes of chocolate and caramel.
Location & Hours
- Address: 730 Upper Serangoon Road, #01-01, Singapore 534643
- Phone: +65 6926 3312
- Open: Tue‑Fri 10 am‑5 pm; Sat‑Sun 10 am‑6 pm (Closed Mondays)
So there you have it – a place you can drift into a cozy café, sip a robust coffee, and nibble on breakfast flavors that feel like a vacation in a bowl (or a waffle). Drop by, and let the pink vibes and mouth‑watering delights sweep you off your feet… and onto a blissful, caffeine‑powered mood.
Apollo Coffee Bar
A Cozy New Café Gem in Serangoon Gardens
Just across the bustling roundabout in Serangoon Gardens, Apollo has opened its doors, bringing the same creative flair that made Atlas Coffeehouse, Columbus Coffee Co, and Lunar Coffee Brewers household names.
Vibes & Layout
- Bright, relaxed atmosphere with plenty of natural light.
- Central island coffee bar that’s the real show‑stopper.
- Outdoor seating that’s air‑conditioned and sheltered – perfect for a sunny sip.
What to Eat
All‑day brunch, up to 5 pm, is a hit. Try the Breakfast Burger ($17.70) or the flavorful Wurst Rosti ($24.90). If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the fluffy pancakes and waffles will hit the spot.
Lunch and dinner follow the same creative, international menu trend—think global flavors with a playful twist.
Find Us
Apollo Coffee Bar
65 Serangoon Garden Way, Singapore 555961
Phone: +65 6214 9791
Hours
- Mon–Sat: 9 am–10 pm
- Sun: 9 am–7 pm
- Closed on Mondays
Eleven Strands
About Eleven Strands
Just a few blocks from the mellow vibes of South Union Park in Kembangan, Eleven Strands sits right across from the Serangoon Stadium, ready to dish out some seriously tasty pasta.
What You’ll Find
- Cool French‑Italian Fusion: A modern, stylish bistro that brings the best of both worlds.
- Taste the “Made‑to‑Order” Magic: Hand‑crafted tagliatelle that’s as fresh as the morning breeze.
- Weekend Brunch: Because why not start your holiday with a plate of joy?
- Classic Western Comfort: Rustic dishes that hit the spot every time.
Starters (and Menu Highlights)
Our regulars swear by:
- Beef Short Rib Pasta – $26.75+
- Crab Meat Pasta – $27.82+
And when you’re ready to upgrade to the main course, don’t miss:
- Tender Braised Beef Cheeks – $26.75+
- Wagyu Beef Burger – $27.82+
What’s the vibe?
Whether it’s a relaxed lunch or a dreamy date night, Eleven Strands promises not to disappoint. They’re all about that easy‑going, low‑key atmosphere paired with dishes that hit your taste buds hard.
Contact & Hours
- Address: 66 Yio Chu Kang Road, Singapore 545568
- Phone: +65 9487 1398
- Opening Times:
- Tue‑Thu: 12 pm – 9:30 pm
- Fri: 12 pm – 10 pm
- Sat: 11 am – 10 pm
- Sun: 11 am – 9 pm
- Closed on Mon.
Chū and Co
Unplug & Unwind at Chū and Co – The Hipster Hangout Your Taste Buds Will Love
Why this spot matters
Picture this: an open‑air backyard that feels like a secret garden, where the air is perfumed with fresh pastries, steaming cups of coffee, and a little scoop of gelato that feels less like dessert and more like a science experiment.
Inside the quirky oasis
- Farm‑to‑table vibes – Founders Rui and Ling have turned an old warehouse into a cozy kitchen that lives for the next great recipe.
- Mismatched furniture – Think vintage chairs and modern tables colliding like a fashion runway.
- Retro tiles – Those old‑school mosaic tiles give the place a low‑key, yet unmistakably cool, aesthetic.
- Seasonal indulgences – From Black Forest Cake (yes, $32 but oh so worth it) to newly twisted pastries that make your sweet tooth dance.
Weekend special – go from café to gelato bar
Between 1 pm and 10:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, the café morphs into a gelato bar. Expect quirky scoops such as smoked whisky, whipped espresso, and other flavors that would make your Instagram caption go aaaah!
Get the deets
- 15 Lichfield Rd, Singapore 556835
- +65 8874 7615
- Open Wed‑Sun: 8:30 am‑4:00 pm (Closed Mon‑Tue)
So, grab a coffee, scoop a weird gelato, and watch the rest of the city burn. The next time you stroll past, just know you’ve already landed in the coolest, most whimsical corner of Singapore.
The Bread Rack
The Bread Rack: Kovan’s New Bread‑Bash
Picture a cozy café that doubles as a bakery, tucked right in the heart of Kovan. That’s The Bread Rack—a place where the aroma of fresh sourdough, flaky croissants, and golden baguettes practically leans in through the front door. If you’re craving a hearty breakfast or a simple coffee break, this spot’s got you covered.
What You’ll Find Inside
- Classic Bakes – From traditional sourdough loaves to buttery croissants, they never disappoint.
- Seasonal Treats – Look out for mini‑Milo cruffins, tropical otah brioche, and strawberry‑maple croissants that pop up throughout the year.
- Coffee & Sandwiches – A $5.90+ croissant sandwich that’s practically a breakfast in a package; add a hearty breakfast platter for $18.90 if you’re feeling extra.
Why It’s a Must‑Visit
All the bread at The Bread Rack is baked on-site, ensuring every bite is warm and flaky. Pair that with a quality coffee and you’ve got the perfect start to your day—or a delicious way to unwind after a long hike.
Details at a Glance
Location: 9 Yio Chu Kang Road, #01‑55, @YCKSTREES, Singapore, 545523
Phone: +65 8875 5407
⏰ Hours: Open Thursday to Monday, 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
Quick Reminder
Always keep an eye on the menu for new seasonal delights—everything from an oat‑a‑time brioche to a strawberry‑maple croissant can make your visit even more memorable.
So whether you’re a bread aficionado or simply in the mood for a comforting meal, The Bread Rack promises a tasty, artisanal experience that’s sure to leave you craving more.
