Food at Novena: A Local’s Guide to Hidden Gems
When you think of Novena, your mind might jump to its cluster of hospitals or the bustling shopping malls like Velocity and Square 2. While it’s a well-known commercial and medical hub, Novena hides a culinary scene that often gets overlooked in favor of more famous foodie districts. But for those willing to venture beyond the main thoroughfares, a world of delicious, authentic, and often surprising food awaits.
This guide is your local’s ticket to uncovering the food at Novena. We’re skipping the obvious mall restaurants and food court chains to bring you the places that residents love—the spots tucked away in older buildings, down quiet side streets, and inside unassuming shophouses. Prepare to explore a side of Novena that offers incredible flavor without the fanfare.
Dive into Authentic Teochew Cuisine at Chao Shan Cuisine
Tucked away in the Royal Square Novena complex, Chao Shan Cuisine is a sanctuary for authentic Teochew food lovers. While it’s in a modern building, the restaurant itself feels like a step back in time, focusing on traditional recipes passed down through generations. It’s a far cry from the trendy cafes, offering a dining experience that is both comforting and deeply satisfying.
The star of the show here is undoubtedly their Teochew-style braised duck. Unlike other versions, this one is braised in a light yet flavorful broth that allows the natural taste of the duck to shine through. The meat is incredibly tender, falling off the bone with the gentlest nudge of a chopstick. Pair it with a bowl of plain rice porridge to soak up every drop of the savory gravy. Another must-try is the Chilled Jellied Pork Trotter, a classic Teochew cold dish that is executed to perfection here, offering a delightful texture and a refreshing taste. Don’t leave without trying their Oyster Omelette; it’s crispy, fluffy, and packed with plump oysters.
What makes Chao Shan Cuisine a hidden gem is its unwavering commitment to tradition. It doesn’t rely on flashy decor or modern twists. Instead, it delivers honest, high-quality Teochew dishes that feel like a home-cooked meal, making it a beloved spot for families and those in the know.
Savor Homestyle Japanese Fare at Kogane Yama
While many Japanese restaurants in Singapore focus on ramen or sushi, Kogane Yama offers something different: exceptional Japanese tendon (tempura rice bowl). Located within a less-visited corner of Velocity @ Novena Square, it’s easy to walk past without a second glance, but doing so would be a huge mistake. This small eatery is dedicated to perfecting the art of tempura.
Their signature dish, the Mixed Tendon Bowl, is a masterpiece of textures and flavors. Each piece of tempura—from the succulent prawns and chicken to the vibrant vegetables like long bean and sweet potato—is fried to a perfect golden crispness. The batter is light and airy, never greasy, providing a satisfying crunch that gives way to a tender interior. The bowl is drizzled with their special sweet and savory tendon sauce, which seeps into the fluffy Japanese rice beneath. For those who like a bit of a kick, you can choose your spice level, from non-spicy to a fiery “level 3.”
The ambiance at Kogane Yama is simple and functional, designed for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s the kind of place you go to for the food, not the frills. This focus on quality over presentation is what makes it a true hidden gem. It offers a premium tendon experience at a very reasonable price point, making it a favorite for a hearty and delicious lunch.
Discover Northern Thai Flavors at Bangkok Express
Venture a little off the beaten path to Goldhill Centre, and you’ll find Bangkok Express, a humble eatery serving up Northern Thai cuisine that is a world away from the usual green curry and pad thai. This spot is a well-kept secret among office workers and residents who crave authentic, punchy Thai flavors that are hard to find elsewhere in Singapore.
The menu here is an adventure in itself. A must-order is the Khao Soi, a rich and creamy coconut curry noodle soup that is a signature dish of Chiang Mai. The bowl comes with tender chicken drumsticks, soft egg noodles, and is topped with a pile of crispy fried noodles for an amazing textural contrast. It’s served with a side of lime, pickled mustard greens, and shallots, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking. Another standout is the Sai Oua, a spicy Northern Thai sausage packed with herbs and spices like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. It’s grilled to perfection and offers a smoky, aromatic flavor that is incredibly addictive.
Bangkok Express is small and unassuming, with simple decor that puts all the focus on the food. The prices are incredibly wallet-friendly, especially for the quality and authenticity of the dishes. It’s a perfect example of a hidden gem that delivers a truly unique culinary experience, transporting you straight to the streets of Northern Thailand.
Indulge in Rich Peranakan Heritage at House of Peranakan Petit
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the United Square Shopping Mall is a small but mighty restaurant called House of Peranakan Petit. As its name suggests, this is a smaller, more intimate offshoot of the renowned House of Peranakan Group. While the mall is known for its family-friendly stores, this restaurant offers a sophisticated and authentic taste of Peranakan culture.
The menu is a curated collection of Nyonya classics, each prepared with meticulous care. Their Ayam Buah Keluak is a must-try for any adventurous foodie. The chicken is stewed in a thick, tangy tamarind gravy with the iconic “black nut,” which has a rich, earthy flavor often described as a cross between dark chocolate and black truffle. Another highlight is the Babi Pongteh, a comforting dish of braised pork belly in a savory fermented soybean sauce. The pork is slow-cooked until it is melt-in-your-mouth tender. For a seafood option, the Ikan Garam Asam is a fantastic choice, featuring fish cooked in a spicy and sour tamarind chili gravy.
The charm of House of Peranakan Petit lies in its cozy and elegant setting, which feels like you’re dining in a private Peranakan home. The service is warm and attentive, with staff happy to explain the history and ingredients of each dish. It’s a wonderful place to experience the complex and vibrant flavors of Peranakan cuisine without having to travel to the East Coast.
Get Your Caffeine Fix at The Clueless Goat
In a neighborhood dominated by chain coffee shops, The Clueless Goat stands out as a charming, independent cafe on Thomson Road. This cozy spot is a favorite among locals for its excellent specialty coffee, hearty brunch fare, and relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to escape the mall crowds for a quiet morning or a leisurely afternoon.
Their coffee program is top-notch, using beans from local roasters to brew everything from a classic flat white to a robust long black. The baristas are skilled and passionate, always happy to chat about the different beans and brewing methods. But this cafe is more than just a place for good coffee. Their food menu is equally impressive. The Ranchers Eggs is a popular choice, featuring poached eggs in a rich tomato and chorizo sauce, served with a side of sourdough toast for dipping. For something sweeter, their Brioche French Toast with mixed berries and maple syrup is a decadent treat.
What makes The Clueless Goat special is its community vibe. It feels less like a business and more like a neighborhood living room. The space is small and often bustling, but it has a warmth and personality that you just can’t find in larger establishments. It’s a true local haunt and a testament to the simple pleasure of a good cup of coffee and a well-made meal.
Novena’s culinary scene is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. By stepping off the main path and exploring its quieter corners, you’ll find a diverse and delicious array of food that reflects the true spirit of Singapore’s dining culture. So next time you’re in the area, skip the usual suspects and give one of these hidden gems a try. Your taste buds will thank you.
