Chong Wen Ge Café 崇文阁

If you are passing by Telok Ayer street or making a visit to Thian Hock Keng Temple, you might not notice that there is a hidden gem in there. Due to the architecture of this hidden gem, you may easily mistook it as part of the the temple. Now, walk in and you will be surprised that there is actually a café in it!

Chong Wen Ge Café 崇文阁 was started off by a group of middle age “uncles” whom try putting efforts in reaching out to the younger generation and helping to increase the awareness of Singapore’s own cultural roots. In this café, you will not see the usual items such as egg benedicts, pasta and waffles, but local heritage food instead.

Upon entering, you will be amazed with the authentic Peranakan tiled flooring which was all preserved in its original splendor. Chong Wen Ge Café is also a part of Thian Hock Keng temple complex, that was gazetted as a National Monument in 1973s.

We tried out the Nyonya Laksa, $10.80 and it’s one of the best laksa i’ve ever tasted, even much better than the infamous Katong laksa. Springy rice noodles with fresh glass prawns, clams, beancurd puffs and fishcakes can be found in this traditional ceramic bowl. With the spiced rich coconut soup topped with beansprout and chopped laksa leaves, I strongly recommend all to try.

We also ordered the Nyonya Mee Siam, $7.80. The rice vermicelli was well absorbed with the rich, sweet tangy tamarind gravy and together with the fresh glass prawns, beancurds and eggs, it’s definitely one hearty meal to enjoy.

At Chong Wen Ge Café, they uses 100% Arabica beans that blends medium high roast with South America coffee beans to provide a smooth creamy body and subtle lingering finish.