Indocafe, Singapore – Review

Singapore is probably by far one of the most multi-cultural cities around Asia given that it not only has a large mixture of expats who works there, but also the fact that the Asian community in Singapore has a deep history of Malay, India, Chinese, etc. One of the more prominent groups are the Peranakans, who are also know as “Straits Chinese” – there’s a very detailed history of their origin at the National Museum in Singapore.

Given that it’s a race that is very distinct to Singapore and less well known in Hong Kong, Ms. Buddha and I decided it would be worth trying out their cuisine, and one of the best places to try it was called InfoCafe.

The building itself is called “The White House” and it is situated in a large garden area – unfortunately on the day we went, it was bucketing down so we ran in as quickly as possible. The staff was very friendly presented us with the menu before we knew it.

Harking back to the old days of Chinese Restaurants, we also got a nice serving of prawn crackers and also sauces (salty salty sauce).

The first thing that we ordered was something called the Kueh Pie Tee, which is Pastry Cups filled with Shredded Turnips, Fresh Seafood & Garlic Chili. You pack the tiny pastry cups with the condiments of your choice and then eat the thing whole. The texture difference between the cup and the freshness of the shrimps was perfect! What’s more the garlic and chilli available had a very strong punch – which is always what I love!

Next thing we ordered was the Organic Ayam Buah Keluak – Organic Chicken braised with Black Nut & Exotic Spices. The chicken was sadly a little dry (I have a high expectation of Chicken in Singpaore) – although the flavour was excellent. Ms. Buddha kept asking me to try one of the items called the black nut – which you effectively crack open and eat the little paste that is inside – it has a burnt nut taste which really wasn’t to my liking – Ms. Buddha loved it though!

Last thing that we ordered (because we were so full to begin with – was the Sambal Sotong – which is Sambal Squid. The flavouring was excellent although I wish it was slightly more chilli. The squid had a good texture which meant it was fresh – a very high quality dish!

Most of the dishes goes excellent with rice (especially the sauces) – and whilst I was finishing my 3rd serving of rice – Ms. Buddha and I were battling for the last pastry cup!

Given that this is the first I’m I’ve ever had Peranakan Food, there’s not much ability for me to compare it, although Ms. Buddha said she’s had better. That said – the food here was quite enjoyable and environment much more relaxed that I originally thought.