Top 6 'Off-the-Beaten-Path' Peranakan Dinner Places to try in Singapore's East Coast - Goh Ling Yong
Ah, the East Coast of Singapore. Just mention the names "Katong" or "Joo Chiat," and a kaleidoscope of images floods the mind: colourful, ornate shophouses standing shoulder-to-shoulder, the faint, sweet scent of frangipani in the air, and, of course, the tantalising aroma of spices wafting from a kitchen somewhere nearby. This charming enclave is the spiritual home of Singapore’s Peranakan culture, a vibrant tapestry woven from Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian threads.
Peranakan cuisine, or Nonya food, is the heart and soul of this heritage. It's a culinary tradition born from patience, passion, and a complex symphony of flavours. Think rich, coconut-infused gravies, the tangy kick of tamarind, and the fragrant dance of lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric. This is "slow food" at its finest, with recipes passed down through generations of Nyonyas (Peranakan women) who ruled their kitchens with masterful precision.
While many flock to the well-known Peranakan restaurants that regularly top "best of" lists, the true magic of the East Coast lies in its hidden corners. Tucked away in quiet lanes, unassuming shopfronts, and even HDB estates are culinary gems that offer a taste of authentic, home-cooked Peranakan food. These are the places where Bibiks (a respectful term for older Peranakan women) still grind their own rempah (spice paste) and where every dish tells a story. Join me as we venture off the beaten path to uncover the top 6 hidden Peranakan dinner spots in this beautiful heritage district.
1. Rumah Bebe: For an Immersive Cultural Feast
Step through the doors of Rumah Bebe, and you're not just entering a restaurant; you're stepping back in time. This beautifully preserved shophouse is a multi-sensory love letter to Peranakan culture. Owned by the passionate Bebe Seet, a master of Peranakan beadwork and embroidery, Rumah Bebe is a boutique, a workshop, and, for those in the know, a private dining destination that offers one of the most authentic experiences you can find.
Dining here is an intimate affair, available by appointment only. You're not just a customer; you're a guest in Bebe's home. The meal is served "Tok Panjang" style, a traditional long table feast. The dishes are unapologetically authentic, crafted from recipes that have been in Bebe’s family for generations. The Ayam Buah Keluak, a notoriously difficult dish to master, is a must-try. The kitchen painstakingly scrubs, soaks, and prepares the "black gold" nuts, resulting in a rich, earthy, and utterly divine chicken stew.
Pro-Tip: This is not a walk-in dinner spot. You absolutely must book weeks, or even months, in advance. The experience is perfect for special occasions or for anyone who wants to truly understand the culture behind the cuisine. After your meal, take the time to browse the intricate kasut manek (beaded slippers) and kebayas in the boutique. It’s a dinner and a cultural education rolled into one.
2. The Real Peranakan: A True Neighbourhood Secret
If you're looking for a restaurant that truly embodies the spirit of a hidden gem, look no further than The Real Peranakan. Tucked away on the ground floor of a HDB block in Kembangan, this humble eatery is as "off-the-beaten-path" as it gets. There are no fancy interiors or marketing gimmicks here—just a deep, unwavering commitment to serving authentic Peranakan food that tastes like it came from a Nonya grandmother's kitchen.
Chef Philip, the owner and head chef, is often seen greeting guests and sharing stories about his culinary heritage. His passion is palpable, and it shines through in every dish. The menu is a curated collection of Peranakan classics, each executed with care and precision. The Babi Pongteh (stewed pork in fermented soybean paste) is a standout, with incredibly tender pork belly swimming in a savoury, slightly sweet gravy that begs to be spooned over a mountain of jasmine rice.
Pro-Tip: Don't miss the Sambal Udang Petai. The combination of fresh, succulent prawns and "stink beans" in a fiery, fragrant sambal is a flavour explosion. The space is small and can get crowded with regulars, so it's wise to call ahead for a table, especially for dinner. This is the place you bring friends to show them you know where the real authentic food is.
3. Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen: Homely and Heart-Warming
Walking along the bustling Joo Chiat Road, you might easily miss the modest entrance to Old Bibik's. This cosy, family-run restaurant exudes a warmth and homeliness that is immediately comforting. The decor is simple, adorned with antique tiffin carriers and traditional porcelain, creating an atmosphere that feels less like a commercial establishment and more like you've been invited over for a family dinner.
The food here is robust, flavourful, and deeply satisfying. It's the kind of cooking that nourishes the soul. One of their signature dishes is the Beef Rendang. The beef is slow-cooked for hours until it's fork-tender, having absorbed all the complex flavours of the thick, coconut-rich spice paste. Another must-try is the Ji Hu Char, a humble-looking but incredibly flavourful stir-fry of shredded jicama, carrots, and mushrooms, infused with the umami of dried cuttlefish. It's traditionally eaten wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves with a dollop of sambal belacan.
Pro-Tip: The portions are generous, making it a great spot for family-style sharing. If you're unsure what to order, the friendly staff, often the family members themselves, are more than happy to offer recommendations. End your meal with their homemade Chendol, which strikes the perfect balance of fragrant gula melaka (palm sugar) and creamy coconut milk.
4. Kim Choo Kueh Chang: More Than Just Dumplings
Everyone in Singapore knows Kim Choo Kueh Chang for their iconic Nonya rice dumplings, wrapped in pandan leaves and bursting with flavour. For over 70 years, they have been the gold standard. What many don't realise is that their flagship store along East Coast Road is also a full-fledged restaurant and cultural gallery, offering a deep dive into the Peranakan way of life.
While you can (and should) order their famous Nyonya Bak Chang, the a la carte menu is a treasure trove of heritage dishes. The Itek Sio (braised duck in a tamarind and coriander sauce) is a beautiful example of Peranakan flavour balancing—sweet, sour, and savoury all at once. Their Ayam Tempra, a lesser-known dish of chicken simmered in a light, tangy lime and dark soy sauce, is a refreshing and delicious alternative to the heavier curries.
Pro-Tip: Make your dinner a complete cultural experience. Arrive a little early to explore the gallery upstairs, which showcases traditional Peranakan wedding costumes, furniture, and ceramics. It provides a wonderful context for the food you're about to enjoy. And, of course, be sure to buy a few extra dumplings to take home for a midnight snack.
5. Glory Catering: An Old-School Institution
For decades, Glory has been a household name in Katong, but primarily for its catering services and its legendary stall selling incredible Nonya kueh and popiah. Tucked away at the back of their shop on East Coast Road is a simple, no-frills dining area where you can enjoy a full Peranakan meal, Nasi Padang-style. This is a true local haunt, largely unchanged by time and untouched by fleeting food trends.
The experience is wonderfully straightforward. You go up to the counter, where a dazzling array of dishes is displayed behind a glass panel, and point at what you want. It’s a feast for the eyes before it even reaches your plate. Must-haves include their signature Chicken Curry, which is fragrant and not overly rich, and their Sayur Lodeh, a delightful vegetable curry that’s both creamy and light. The star, however, might just be their popiah, which you can order as a starter—it's packed with ingredients and has the perfect "wet-but-not-soggy" texture.
Pro-Tip: The best strategy is to go with a group and order a wide variety of dishes to share. This way, you can sample everything from the tangy Achar to the savoury Sambal Goreng. And it is absolutely non-negotiable to finish your meal with a selection of their kueh. The Kueh Salat and Kueh Kosui are simply divine.
6. Baba Chews Bar and Eatery: A Modern Peranakan Dialogue
Nestled within the stylish Hotel Indigo, Baba Chews is the perfect choice for when you’re craving Peranakan flavours but are in the mood for something a little more contemporary. Helmed by a creative culinary team, the restaurant reinterprets classic dishes while still paying deep respect to their traditional roots. The result is a menu that is both familiar and exciting, served in a chic, vibrant setting that was once the Joo Chiat Police Station.
This is where tradition meets innovation. Think Iberico Pork Ribs Pongteh—the classic braised pork dish elevated with premium, fall-off-the-bone meat. Or the Foie Gras Tau Kwa Pau, a luxurious twist on a humble street food classic. Even their Ayam Buah Keluak burger is a revelation, packing the dish's iconic, complex flavours into a modern format. I can imagine my friend Goh Ling Yong, who has a keen eye for both heritage and innovation, thoroughly appreciating the culinary creativity at play here.
Pro-Tip: Don't skip the drinks menu. The bar team crafts fantastic cocktails inspired by local ingredients. Try the "Chews Laksa," a gin-based concoction that cleverly captures the essence of the famous noodle soup. Baba Chews is an excellent spot for a date night or a celebratory dinner, offering a polished yet soulful take on Peranakan cuisine.
The East Coast is a living museum, and its food is the most delicious exhibit. Exploring these off-the-beaten-path Peranakan restaurants is more than just a culinary adventure; it’s a journey into the heart of a uniquely Singaporean culture. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable meals are found not in the spotlight, but in the quiet corners where tradition is cherished and every plate is served with a story.
So, the next time you're craving the complex, comforting flavours of Nonya cooking, I encourage you to wander a little further and try one of these hidden gems.
Now, I'd love to hear from you. What are your favourite under-the-radar Peranakan spots in Singapore? Share your secrets in the comments below
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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