Everyone loves to visit a vintage-inspired diner with a neat western menu every now and then, but there is just something special about those old-school Singapore cafes and eateries — especially the ones that have preserved their original retro decor and still serve up nostalgic local dishes! Ready for a walk down memory lane? We've rounded up a list of eight retro cafes that are aesthetically pleasing, and will send you and your company on a blast to the past.
#1: Old Habits Boutique and Cafe
Photo from Old Habits
Filled with endless shelves and displays of retro trinkets, toys and collectibles, the interiors of Old Habits Cafe look just like the mama shops of days gone by. Relive your childhood with a selfie (or ten), then sit down to some yummy fusion dishes like the Grill Chicken Thigh Rice Bowl ($6), Wagyu Beef Sandwich ($18.90), and Honey Mustard Lamb Rack ($23.90). The best part? The cafe's boutique section has a range of vintage items that are up for sale!
#2: 1932 Story Cafe (Bukit Timah Railway Station)
View this post on Instagram
When the Bukit Timah Railway Station reopened last year as a repurposed heritage gallery, it also introduced the accompanying 1932 Story Cafe. This diner recreates railway station vibes from nearly a hundred years back with rustic red brick walls, retro-themed furniture, and even a ticket booth replica which functions as a coffee counter. Look forward to enjoying sumptuous western and local treats such as the Hawaiian Pizza ($18.90), Truffle Fries ($9), and Ayam Masak Merah ($8.90).
1932 Story Cafe
Address: 1005 Bukit Timah Rd, Singapore 596121
Opening hours: 8.30am - 8.30pm daily
#3: Toast Box @ Old Music Store
Photo from Toast Box
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
The newly opened Toast Box outlet at the Old Music Store is unlike the regular ones you see elsewhere. Not only has Toast Box retained the Old Music Store's iconic antiques for its storefront display, the original ceiling and flooring has been kept for maximum nostalgic value! From now till 16 July, Toast Box will also run a limited menu featuring items with old-timey, classic flavours like Oat Milk Kopi ($3.80), Oat Milk Kopi Melaka ($4.80), Boluo Ham & Cheese ($3.80) and Boluo Luncheon Meat & Cheese ($4.20).
#4: Brunches Cafe
Photo from Brunches Cafe
If you've got a soft spot for old electronics and automobiles, Brunches Cafe should definitely be next on your list of brunch destinations. This aptly-named diner specialises in serving western fusion breakfast and lunch foods, including the Fluffy Pancake Stacks ($14.50), Slow Cooked Pork Belly ($17.90) and Moroccan Lamb Burger ($18.90). Besides the impressive collection of toy buses and model cars displayed for visitors to marvel at, you can even dine in a booth made from vintage car seats!
#5: My Awesome Cafe
Photo from My Awesome Cafe
Located in an old shophouse where the former Chung Hwa Free Clinic used to be, My Awesome Cafe has large Chinese calligraphic signs decorating its entrance. You can expect thrifted furniture and vintage tableware at this diner, which has left its concrete walls unfinished for an extra retro feel. Interestingly, this cafe serves its guests western dishes, such as the Honey Glazed Ham Sandwich ($12) and Spicy Beef Salad ($14).
#6: The Coastal Settlement
Photo from The Coastal Settlement
Photo from The Coastal Settlement
History buffs cannot miss this one, because The Coastal Settlement resembles a museum more than a cafe! The eatery houses everything from stunning paintings to vintage memorabilia, and retro automobiles to antique gadgets and furniture. While there's much to see and post on the 'gram, remember to make time to try their delightful menu of local delicacies, high tea items and desserts — like the Sambal Chilli Clams ($26), Portobello Fries ($16), and TCS Waffle Stack ($18).
#7: Old Chang Kee Coffee House
View this post on Instagram
Did you know that Old Chang Kee had a cafe at Little India? It's impossible to miss as the shopfront has a giant curry puff attached to it. Inside the eatery, visitors can enjoy local fare like the Flower Bread Curry Chicken ($13.90/2 pax), Hainanese Chicken Chop with Chicken Rice ($8.90), and Kampung Mee Goreng ($8.90) using nostalgic tableware and relax against a backdrop of cosy retro furniture.
#8: Carpenter & Cook
Photo from Carpenter & Cook
Not a fan of eating in cluttered spaces or within full view of curious-eyed dolls and toys? Carpenter & Cook combines a retro workspace layout of hanging pots, pans and crafting tools, with the clean, minimalist pastels of its walls for a more organised take on the old-school cafe aesthetic. While they're best known for their artisanal tarts and pastries like the Pain Au Chocolat ($6) Lemon Cream ($4.5/$8.5), this cafe also offers diners a range of hearty dishes like the Pomodoro ($24) and Big Breakfast ($26).
Other awesome food spots to check out:
