9 new-school restaurants with an old-school twist that will transport you to another time

Whether as fond memories of the past or a reflection of cultural identity, Singaporeans are yearning for the days gone by. From vintage fashion and memorabilia to nostalgic snacks and heritage buildings, it’s no doubt that we are searching for history and recapturing the good old days. With the introduction of more and more dining spots that promise to take you back in time, we round up 10 new-school eateries with an old-school twist you’ll want to hit up.

1. Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe

Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe pays homage to Singapore’s kopitiam scene. Opened last year, the eating establishment is the perfect marriage of nostalgia and modernity, with retro items displayed in both the exterior and interior of the restaurant. The menu celebrates kopitiam classics, from its Signature Hainanese Chicken Cutlet to Nasi Lemak Kukus with Chicken Berempah Leg, which you can pair with Coconut Coffee or Hor Ka Sai (literally translated to ‘tiger bite lion’)—an energising mix of Milo and coffee.

Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe is located at 5 Craig Rd, Singapore 089665.

2. The Coastal Settlement

Tucked away in the far east of Changi Village and surrounded by lush greenery, The Coastal Settlement is a treasure trove of old-school memorabilia such as TVs, Vespas and opulent chandeliers that lend a rustic charm to the place. The menu features Western and local delights—we love the portobello fries, otak-otak, and The Settlement Big Breakfast. The restaurant’s cosy atmosphere makes it a great place for a girls’ day out, date night, or just a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Coastal Settlement is located at 200 Netheravon Rd, Singapore 508529. Make a reservation here.

3. Old Habits Cafe

Old Habits Cafe was founded in 2014 by avid vintage collectors as a way to share their love for old-school memorabilia. Decked out in retro toys, signboards, vinyls, and even Happy Meal toys from way back, the vintage collector’s paradise promises a blast from the past. Try out Asian fusion dishes like Sambal Chicken Burger, desserts like Old Habits Coconut Kueh, and beverages like the Old Habits Float for a trip down memory lane.

Old Habits Cafe is located at 2 Telok Blangah Way, Mt Faber, #01-04, Singapore 098803. Make a reservation here.

4. British Hainan

Step into any of the two British Hainan outlets, and you’ll be immediately greeted with a warm and nostalgic ambiance. With antique knick-knacks and a layout reminiscent of lunchtime at your grandmother’s dining room, the award-winning heritage restaurant serves up British Hainanese cuisine in a retro setting. Look forward to hearty mains prepared using the owner’s family recipes, like Hainanese Pork Chop with Pasta, Traditional Hainanese Oxtail Stew and Hainanese Chicken Rice. Its Joo Chiat outlet will be shuttering its doors by February 2025, so hurry on down before it’s too late.

British Hainan is located at 75 Carpmael Rd, Singapore 429812; and 158 Kallang Way, #01-06, Singapore 349245. Make a reservation here.

5. Lou Shang

Located on level 2 of popular speakeasy Mama Diam, Lou Shang (meaning “upstairs” in Chinese) is a hidden HDB-themed cafe-bar—think: letterboxes, clothes hanging on bamboo poles, communal corridors, and an old-school lift door—that pays homage to the Singapore heartlands. It operates as a cafe during the day, serving up Singaporean classics with a Western twist such as Chilli Crab-tivating (jumbo crab and ricotta ravioli, chilli crab sauce, and croutons), small bites, as well as interesting concoctions including Iced Pei Pa Koa Latte and Iced Pandan Kaya Latte. At 6pm, it transforms into an “HDB After Hours” where it operates as a cosy bar, offering unique cocktail experiences tied to the concept of home.

Lou Shang is located at 38 Prinsep Street, Singapore 188665. Make a reservation here.

6. Xiao Ya Tou

Xiao Ya Tou is the perfect marriage of nostalgia and modernity. This modern Asian bistro features bright neon lanterns, oriental tiles, and retro posters of Chinatown and Asian celebrities. Their fun and comic-inspired menu promises love at first bite with an assortment of well-executed tzi char dishes—try their sharing plates such as Chilli Crab Puri and Pork Dumplings, Truffle Roast Duck (available in limited portions daily), Angus Beef Satay, as well as a separate vegetarian menu for everyone to enjoy. Wash it all down with their wide selection of cocktails or end on a sweet note with the likes of Kueh Salat Ice Cream and Durian Coconut Sago.

Xiao Ya Tou is located at 6 Duxton Hill, #01-01, Singapore 089592. Make a reservation here.

7. Brunches Cafe

Yes, that is a genuine Mini Cooper-turned-dining table sitting in the middle of this cafe. From this show-stopping centrepiece to vintage furniture and retro memorabilia, Brunches Cafe is sure to bring back your childhood memories. The vintage themed cafe has a hearty menu of western fusion food, from timeless favourites like Eggs Benedict and French toast to its award-winning Frutti di Mare Pasta you’ll want to try.

Brunches Cafe is located at 96 Rangoon Rd, Singapore 218381. Make a reservation here.

8. Carpenter and Cook

Carpenter and Cook prides itself in presenting a handcrafted experience. Whether it’s hearty brunches, fresh bakes or whimsical decor—we love the vintage clocks and plates on the walls, and sewing tables transformed into coffee tables for a homely and cosy feel—drop by any time of the day for breakfast, brunch or tea. With an extensive menu of classics and twists on contemporary favourites, you’ll be sure to feast to your heart’s content.

Carpenter and Cook is located at 19 Lor Kilat, #01-06, Singapore 598120.

9. Joji’s Diner

Joji’s Diner is a retro American-style diner that serves up no-frills American grub such as the All-Star Platter comprising bacon, scrambled eggs, sausage, hashbrown, and toast; Chicken and Waffle, and blissfully sinful milkshakes. Its checkerboard black-and-white floors, bright red leather booths, and retro jukebox also make it a highly Instagrammable dining spot.

Joji’s Diner is located at 534 Upper Serangoon Rd, Singapore 534549.

This article was originally published in Harper’s Bazaar Singapore.