Cafés Archives - EatRoamLive

Indulge in Black Tap Singapore’s Vegan & Vegetarian Burgers and Delightful CakeShakes: Review

April 3, 2020

Vegan Food at Black Tap Singapore: Review

To say that I was pleasantly surprised when I recently joined a friend for lunch at Black Tap Singapore is an understatement. On a previous visit, I had found the menu lacking in plant-based options, but not so this time. Famous for its burgers and milkshakes, the New York eatery not only offers a splash of SoHo in Singapore, it has now expanded its offering to include a few vegan dishes, on top of the vegetarian options it already offered.

At a great location in The Shoppes at the iconic Marina Bay Sands, Black Tap’s stylish interior is a contemporary mix of woody and metal elements, with groovy old-school tunes and a laidback vibe. At first glimpse, the menu seems full of just a lot of meat burgers, but any burger at Black Tap Singapore can be veganized using an Impossible patty, so you’ll have plenty of choice.

We started off with a couple of sides and a salad. Black Tap’s Crispy Brussels Sprouts (S$14) with sesame-tahini and paprika sauce are nothing like the mushy green blobs I remember from my childhood. These are deliciously crispy with wonderful smoky flavours from the dipping sauce, and good enough to convert you into a Brussels Sprouts fan.

Guac & Chips (S$11) seemed to be a popular choice amongst other diners, and I could see why! The perfectly crisp tortilla chips are well above your typical store-bought version, you can actually taste the corn. Served alongside is a creamy and well-seasoned smashed avo guacamole and a cilantro-based dip (coriander to my British friends).

The healthiest part of our meal was the Vegan Spinach Salad. This is a huge portion with baby spinach, quinoa, pomegranate, avocado, apples, scallions, cilantro, spiced glazed pecans. The different flavours and textures come together nicely with the zingy Lemon Miso Vinaigrette that is served on the side. The candied pecans are the hero of the dish, the touch that sets Black Tap’s Spinach Salad apart from its counterparts elsewhere.

On to the award-winning burgers, I opted for the Vegan Nashville Hot with a breaded portobello, Nashville hot sauce, vegan coleslaw and pickles on a vegan bun. Take a hint from the name, the burger is really hot, thanks to the spicy Nashville sauce. The portobello isn’t made into a patty but is breaded and fried whole, crispy on the outside with a nice soft mushroomy texture inside. The coleslaw is homemade with a creamy tofu sauce instead of mayo. Good vegan burger buns can be hard to find but Black Tap has it just right. Although I would have preferred to have some sauce inside the burger to give the patty extra moisture and flavour, overall, it was a very good burger that would satisfy even the most voracious vegan. If you don’t like spicy food though, the Vegan Nashville might not be for you, but take heart as there are plenty of other burgers to choose from.

Read: The best Vegetarian & Vegan Burgers in Singapore

My friend was keen to try the vegetarian Falafel Burger (S$21) for its familiarity and to our surprise the staff informed us that the burger can be veganized upon request by omitting the feta cheese and replacing the burger buns by the vegan version. The falafel patty is light and moist, and full of herbs. Sitting atop the buns and patty are tahini, bright pink pickled onions, and hummus, with pickle and French fries served on the side. Coming from Eastern Europe, I love the pickle which accompanies the burgers.

As I mentioned earlier, any burger at Black Tap can be done with the plant-based Impossible Patty (for a whopping extra S$8) and a vegan bun (for an additional S$3)!

Saving the best for last, the real star here is the Vegan Black ‘N White Cakeshake. This is made using premier ingredients such as apple sauce for a perfectly moist cake, and a coconut milk whipped cream that can pass the test when piled high on the cake. Whatever else you have at Black Tap Singapore, make sure you save some (or rather a lot of) room for this.

In addition to being an Instagram star, this vegan Cakeshake is a truly decadent, sinful vegan dessert which is almost too good to be true. A thick coconut-based chocolate shake, house-made vanilla frosting and chocolate chips on the rim, topped with a slice of rich and moist black and white cake, whipped cream and a chocolate drizzle! If anyone ever tells you that vegan desserts are boring, please oh please take them to Black Tap and the Vegan Black ‘N White Cakeshake will be sure to shake things up for them.

Black Tap Singapore: Verdict

Overall, Black Tap Singapore did not disappoint and its confidence in the vegan menu is well founded. I would rate it as a great place for a vegan or vegetarian meal with your friends. Portions are very generous, so there is absolutely no chance that you will leave this place hungry. The menu is diverse, featuring American classics, tex-mex and a few healthy options. The restaurant also offers a good selection of 18 craft beers – 12 of which are on tap – and cocktails. Please keep in mind that the restaurant doesn’t accept reservations.

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer Singapore: 2 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018972. P: +65 6688 9957 | Website

Porta’s Vegetarian European Cuisine Fused with Asian Flavours: Dining Review

March 25, 2020

On the ground floor of the Park Hotel in Clarke Quay is Porta, which literally means ‘door’ in Italian. This all-day bistro style dining enclave has a relaxed and warm vibe to it, offering modern European cuisine infused with Asian flavours, to appeal to both local and international tastebuds. Executive Chef Alex Phan and his team constantly seek innovative approaches to entice the palate of guests with new gourmet experiences, the latest addition to this being Porta’s vegetarian menu that has been recently launched in collaboration with Green Monday.

The Green Monday Menu at Porta seeks to support and raise awareness about a sustainable future by creating consciousness amongst diners regarding the benefits of green diets. The menu features 10 dishes to cater to its diners’ diverse dietary requirements and preferences ranging from vegetarian and vegan to dairy-free and nut free. Some of the dishes feature plant-based meat substitutes from Beyond Meat, Heura, as well as plant-based cheese from Daiya Foods. On our recent visit, we tried a few dishes from Porta’s vegetarian offerings that are part of their Green Monday Menu. Here’s a lowdown.

READ: 9 Mainstream Restaurants for Vegetarian & Vegan Fine Dining in Singapore

The Garden Salad (S$18) at Porta comes with fresh mesclun, cherry tomatoes, olives and Mediterranean Heura sausage, tossed with a light citrus dressing that hints at flavours of olive oil, lime and garlic. The Heura sausage looks deceptively real, so much so that we reconfirmed with the staff that they hadn’t mistakenly served us a chicken salad. The portion size is generous and this ‘meaty’ vegetarian Garden Salad should make for a good start to the meal for the chicken lovers and of course, for those who love their greens and vegetables.

The Burratina (S$22) is elegantly plated, with fresh Burrata on a bed of Roma tomatoes that are topped with a more than generous drizzle of basil pesto. The surprise to the dish is the interesting sprinkle of Shio Kombu on the Burrata. For the uninformed, Shio Kombu are thin sheets of kelp boiled in soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, then dried and cut into small pieces. The Shio Kombu, with its briny, mushroom-like flavour adds an interesting touch to the dish. The kombu is mildly flavoured and did not overpower the dish as I had expected it might. I am usually not a big fan of basil pesto but the freshness of the tomatoes and the light, fluffy Buratta add a good buffer and overall, I enjoyed the dish. Note: Please note that the Burrata at Porta uses animal rennet, making it unsuitable for strict vegetarians.

The Orecchiette Pasta (S$24) is a cream based pasta with wild mushroom, spinach and Beyond Sausage. The addition of shallots, garlic and bay leaf add an Asian dimension to the dish, that unfortunately, didn’t appeal to me. The pasta was also a bit too al dente for my liking, so if you, like me, prefer your pasta to be softer, do let the staff know beforehand. The dairy-based sauce can be replaced by an EVOO base upon request, to make the dish suitable for vegans.

A highlight of Porta’s vegetarian Green Monday menu is the Beyond Burger (S$29). The Beyond patty is served with Daiya Cheese and caramelised onions in a brioche bun, with fries and salad on the side. The patty is grilled well, the burger is hearty and delicious and the fries light and crispy, making this my favourite dish of the evening. The Beyond Burger isn’t vegan in lieu of the brioche bun containing egg, but you can opt to have your burger between gluten-free sliced bread or between lettuce leaves if you’re vegan.

Just as I was entering a deep pensive state of food coma, came the surprise treat. In my defense, I did hesitate initially, but the mention of ‘coffee-based’ and ‘dessert’ in the same sentence is too good to pass up on. The Kopi “O” is served in a coffee mug that you would normally see at a Kopitiam. The dessert is layered and you should cut right down to the bottom of the glass with each bite. The dessert consists of a dark chocolate mocha sponge cake (made with espresso and Malagos 75% dark chocolate), a layer of espresso jelly, and is topped with condensed milk that has been thickened with custard powder. The kopi is served with Butter Sugar Toast on the side and makes for a delectable treat that gives you a wholesome Singaporean experience. An absolutely delightful way to end the meal!

If you’re looking for a new place to enjoy a vegetarian meal, Porta makes for a nice getaway, with its laid-back vibe and quiet ambience making it conducive to a nice dinner conversation over some good food. During our visit, we saw couples across age groups, friends celebrating occasions together, business dinners, as well as foreign tourists, all enjoying their meals that evening. So, open the ‘Porta’ to this new and interesting plant-based experience right here in Clarke Quay.

Porta: 1 Unity Street, Singapore 237983, Park Hotel Clarke Quay. P: +65 6593 8855 | Website

4 Top Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Sydney, Australia

December 14, 2019

Top Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Sydney Australiaa

Headed to the land down under? Sydney, Australia is known for its strong plant-based dining scene, with vegan and vegetarian restaurants rampant around town. From burgers and pizzas to sushi and fine Thai food, whatever your’e craving, Sydney’s range of vegan restaurants will have you covered. Here are just 4 of our picks alongwith their signature dishes, so check out these 4 Top Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

Yellow, Sydney, NSW

Kohlrabi, Enoki & Fermented Apple

Plum & Fennel Ice Cream (left) | Press Curd, Charred Leek & Black Garlic (right)

Yellow is a vegetarian bistro in Potts Point from the award-winning team behind Bentley Restaurant + Bar, Monopole and Cirrus. It is inspired by the European dining scene where contemporary food and wine are served in an informal setting at affordable prices. Recognizing a demand for vegetarian and vegan dining in Sydney, Chef Brent Savage and his team have created a plant-based menu with a focus on interesting and heirloom vegetables, grown by local suppliers. Yellow is open seven nights a week, with brunch offered on weekends. On Saturday nights they offer tasting menus only, including a vegan tasting menu.

Signature Dishes: Parsnip Pappardelle with Yolk and Ricotta, Plum and Fennel Ice Cream, Yellow Bean with Pickled Brassica and Yoghurt

Address: 57 MacLeay St, Potts Point NSW 2011, Australia. Website.

Bodhi Restaurant Bar, Sydney, NSW

Bodhi is a purely vegan restaurant that uses no animal products or by-products in its food or beverages, which includes yum cha at lunch, tapas and shared mains in the evening, and an extensive beverage list including coffees, teas, mocktails, cocktails, local vegan and organic wines and craft beers. Its menus also follow a Buddhist cooking philosophy in that dishes are free from the five pungent vegetables– onions, garlic, green onions, chives and leeks. Bodhi is a female-led business with owner/operator Heaven Leigh at the helm, and Kitty Hong Xiao and Brooke Ng heading up the kitchen.

As a third-generation restaurateur, hospitality is in Heaven Leigh’s blood. Her grandparents ran Chinese takeaway shops in Dundas Valley and Chatswood in the 1970s and 80s called Lady Jade, and her mum, Lee-Leng Whong founded Sydney’s first vegan yum cha restaurant in Chinatown Sydney.

Signature Dishes: Braised Japanese Mushroom Tataki With Wakami & Mushroom Floss, Roasted Teriyaki Cauliflower with Nashi Pear, Fig, Pomegranate, Tofu crumble, Pumpkin Puree & Pomegranate Molasses

Address: 2/4 College St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia. Website.

Peppe’s, Sydney, NSW

Located along Bondi Road, Peppe’s is a relatively new and intimate restaurant with a simple pasta menu and natural wines by the glass. Produce is locally sourced and the pasta is made in-house daily. The all-vegan restaurant opened in 2019 this year and was conceptualised by Joe Pagliaro and Grace Watson – the brains behind Waterloo’s Paperback. The 40-square metre enclave boasts rustic, homely interiors and its kitchen is helmed by chef Joel Bennett, who had previously worked at the two-hatted Gastro Park.

Signature Dishes: Peppe’s is highly regarded for its gnocchi dishes

Address: 261 Bondi Rd, Bondi NSW 2026, Australia. Website.

Vina Vegan, Sydney, NSW

Family owned and operated since 2009, Vina Vegan was brought to life simply to share traditional Vietnamese vegan recipes with people who simply want to eat better with food that is 100% vegan, gluten-free and MSG-free. The quaint and cosy restaurant on King street serves an abundance of fresh vegetables and flavourful faux meat, as well as mouthwatering plant-based renditions of classic Vietnamese dishes that cater to everyone’s tastes and preference. The restaurant is also known for its amazing customer service, and is a neighbourhood favourite.

Signature Dishes: Vina Spring Rolls with Mungbean, Carrot, Tofu, Mushroom, Taro and Vermicelli; Vina Pho Noodle Soup with basil, vegan beef or vegan chicken; Wok Tossed Red Curry Sauce with Broccoli, Mushroom, Capsicum, Potato and Snow Peas

Address: 395 King St, Newtown NSW 2042, Australia. Website

Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café: Creative, Nutritious, Delicious, Healthy Vegetarian & Vegan Plates

August 6, 2019

Well Dressed Salad Bar Vegan Sunday Brunch

Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café is an interesting and unique restaurant that triggers off curious thoughts on what the experience would be like. Don’t go by the name, this place serves way more than salads and coffee and is well-known for its creative dishes and its eggless vegan waffles and bakes. On a rainy Sunday morning, Ganesh and I set off, excited and intrigued for a sneak preview of their Breakfast Sundays – a brand-new Breakfast/Brunch Menu that launches on 11^th August.

Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café is situated on level 1 of a quaint little shophouse in Chinatown; on level 2 of the same building is the famous Eight Treasures Vegetarian Restaurant, part of the same family. If you’ve never been to Well Dressed, it is worth mentioning that this unassuming little eatery has a cult following in the vegetarian and vegan community, what with their fabulous food and superb service always. Zenna, who is the brain behind Well Dressed is a passionate health and sustainability advocate. She believes in crafting each dish to perfection using the freshest plant-based ingredients, thereby making every meal a wholesome experience.

Getting on to the Sunday Breakfast, you’re welcomed with a drink on the house to cleanse the palate and prepare it for the choices ahead. The menu features Savoury Pleasures, Sweet Breakfast, Sides and Drinks and is available from 9.30 am to 11.30 am, so it can nicely double up as brunch for those who are not early risers.

Savoury Breakfast/Brunch Pleasures at Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café

Starting on a savoury note, the Sundried Tomato Waffles (S$13.50) are a fabulous innovation. With sun-dried tomatoes folded in the batter, the waffles are eggless and vegan. Accompanying the waffles is a side of baby spinach, sautéed garlic & thyme mushrooms, a dollop of avocado cream and a sprinkle ofchia seeds; the combo making for a simple, yet power-packed side. The carefully planned plate makes for a balanced treat and is highly recommended.

Breakfast Jack Submarine (S$13.50) has crispy ‘bacon-like’ pulled jackfruit on a bed of arugula leaves and tomatoes, generously drizzled with a vegan home-made hollandaise sauce (soy based) served between perfectly toasted bread. Also stuffed in the sub are scrambled tofu ‘egg’ and alfa-alfa sprouts, with a Cucumber Cilantro Lime Slaw on the side. The sub is indulgent but quite heavy on the tummy. It rates high on the protein meter too, so it might make for a good meal after a Sunday morning workout.

Happy Smashed Potatoes (Gluten-Free, S$15.50) are mashed potatoes that indeed made me happy. My favourite dish on the savoury menu, it gave me the feeling of a warm, home-cooked meal by mom. Baby potatoes perfectly tossed with lemon and herbs and smashed, the topped with a Chorizo Sausage Crumble that is made with Sunflower Seeds form the core of this dish. The protein fix comes from chickpeas and kidney beans tossed in tomato and scrambled tofu ‘egg’. A Garlic (soy) Sour Cream drizzle completes the the dish, I was highly impressed with the innovative use of ingredients

Sweet Breakfast/Brunch Specials at Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café

Well, I’m here for breakfast, so GIVE ME French Toast PLEASE! (S$11.50). Well Dressed’s version consists of thick artisanal bread dipped in a soy egg mixture and pan fried with a generous amount of cinnamon. Fresh fruit, berries, dried fruit and a pouring of Maple Syrup complete the ensemble; making for a sweet, indulgent treat which would appeal to kids and adults alike.

Next up, English ‘Tau Sar Paeng’ (S$9.50) are warm and soft scones, with a delectable red bean filling that comes as a surprise. Oil free, this dish uses coconut milk for the moisture. The scones – or call them biscuits if you will – have a light, flaky exterior and a nice nutty flavour and are served with Sweet Soy Cream and Matcha Chia Jam.

Bringing up the rear, KAYA Cheezse Waffle (S$10.50) is completely unexpected. This is a soft waffle made with scrambled Kroodi Truffi cheese bits in the batter that give it a sweet, tangy aftertaste. For the uninformed, Kroodi is Singapore’s favourite brand of raw, vegan cashew cheese; Truffi is flavoured with a home-made shitake powder and Italian truffle oil. With its golden-brown colour, the kaya looks similar to Hainanese kaya, it is made with pumpkin and coconut and is just the right amount of sweet. Home-made, crunchy, coconut and gula melaka granola and banana slices complete the dish. I loved discovering new flavours with each bite, and this was definitely the pick of the day for me.

Besides the mains, Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café also serves a few side dishes and an array of drinks – think Freshly Squeezed Juices, Banana Strawberry Oatmeal Smoothie, Turmeric Soy Latte, Coffees & Teas – as part of the breakfast/brunch menu.

This brunch menu will be available as Breakfast Sundays every 2^nd Sunday of the month, and will debut on the 11^th August as part of the extended national day celebrations. Seats are limited, and guests can pre-book by messaging on their Facebook or Insta accounts. You can also book by calling the restaurant on 6534 7787.

Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café is poised right next to the famous Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. So if you’re new to Singapore or you haven’t been to the Temple yet, plan for a relaxed breakfast or brunch at Well Dressed and follow it up with a trip to the temple.

VERDICT: Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café

We thoroughly enjoyed our meal and I could see that a lot of thought has gone into curating this menu that is healthy, tasty, creative, balanced and easy on the pocket. I was utterly impressed by the creative use of ingredients in almost every dish. So, make your date with Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café this long weekend and enjoy clean and sustainable plates that are also healthy and delicious.

Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café: 282 South Bridge Road, Singapore. P: +65 6534 7787. FB Page. IG Page.

6 Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Cafés in Singapore to enjoy a Cuppa, Breakfast or Brunch

June 27, 2019

Green Falafel Bowl at Carrosticks & Cravings. Vegetarian Friendly Cafes in Singapore

Coffee does make everything better, doesn’t it? Pair up a nice cup of brew with a healthy plant-based breakfast, and you’ve got the perfect start to your day. We, being complete coffee fanatics, are always on the lookout for cafés that serve quality brew. Of course, non-dairy milks and vegan & vegetarian fare that goes beyond croissants and pancakes, have to be part of the equation.

So here are some of our favourite cafés around Singapore, that not only serve a mean cup of Joe but also deliver on the veg-vegan front. Hit these wonderful places for a cuppa or even for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

Carrotsticks & Cravings

The chic Australian café offers freshly prepared dishes that are absolutely instaworthy. Vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, raw and refined sugar-free options are available everyday. Carrotsticks & Cravings is a kid-friendly eatery with kid menus, a colouring station, trampolines (at the Dempsey outlet), and a side of popcorn with kids’ meals. Score! There are a great many food options for vegetarians to enjoy alongside their cuppas, and vegans aren’t forgotten either. Try the Vegan Tempeh Bowl (S$24), the Superfood Salad (S$22) or the Green Falafel Bowl that is also Gluten-Free. Of course, vegetarians get even more menu options to choose from, with the Big Veggie Breakfast Bowl (quinoa, mushrooms, tomato, spinach, avocado, poached egg) being a popular choice.

The good folks at Carrotsticks will happily make your favourite coffee vegan, with a choice of soy milk, almond milk and coconut milk available at both outlets. In the mood for a smoothie? Choose from a variety of Smoothie Bowls and Smoothies. You can opt to have the milk switched to a non-dairy alternative (for an extra S$1).

Carrotsticks & Cravings @ Dempsey: 75E Loewen Road, DempseySingapore 248845. | Carrotsticks & Cravings @ Robertson Quay: 7 Rodyk St #01-34, Singapore 238215. P: +65 6219 3710 | Website

Tiong Bahru Bakery @ Raffles City Shopping Centre

A Range of Freshly Baked Breads (Image credit: Tiong Bahru Bakery’s FB page)

This French Bakery now has 6 outlets islandwide but our favourite haunt is their outlet at Raffles City Shopping Centre. Hit Tiong Bahru Bakery not just for the great coffee they serve, but also for their freshly baked breads, viennoiseries, tarts and desserts. All outlets offer these besides a great range of artisan teas, coffees and fresh juices. The outlet at Raffles City has a wider menu with exclusives like the vegan Quinoa Farmer’s Plate (S$16) or the Smoked Coco Club Sandwich (think coconut ‘bacon’). Vegetarian dishes include Rainbow Rice Bowl (S$18) and Corny Chilli Fritters. Of course, you can veganise your coffee with soy milk, almond milk or coconut milk.

Tiong Bahru Bakery: 252 North Bridge Road, #B1-11 Raffles City Shopping Centre, Singapore 179103. P: +65 63334160. Website

The Living Café

Roasted Cauliflower Salad. Vegetarian and vegan friendly cafes singapore

Delicious Middle Eastern inspired roasted cauliflower salad with mint, dates, toasted almonds and a pomegranate dressing. An explosion of flavours! (Image credit: The Living Café’s Facebook page)

The Living Café offers food sans red meat, dairy, refined sugar, preservatives and additives. A good chunk of their menu is raw food. There is much to choose from for both vegetarians and vegans. Some of the guilt-free vegan dishes include Avocado Cucumber Soup, Raw Roasted Broccoli Mushroom Pizza (S$20.50) and Grilled Tofu & Guacamole Wrap (S$17). Vegetarians can try gems like Veggie Nori Roll (S$13.50), Cauliflower, Almond & Mint Salad or Pad Thai Noodles (S$16.50). They also have a dedicated Kids Menu with vegetarian options. As the cafe doesn’t use animal/dairy milk, their smoothies are made from coconut, cashew, hazelnut or rice milk. You can opt for your coffee to be done with soy, rice or hazelnut milk.

The Living Café: 779 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 269758. P: +65 6468 4482. Website

Real Food

Vegan Gateau Chocolat. Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Cafés in Singapore

Real Food’s Vegan Gateau Chocolat; a moist cake with the texture of walnut and a drizzle of homemade chocolate sauce (Image credit: Real Food’s Facebook page)

A chic café, Real Food is a meat-free eatery with vegan options galore. Get a taste of local starters done the veg way, with Steamed or Fried Dumplings, Fruit Rojak or Balsamic Beancurd. Real Food’s menu can vary quite a bit across outlets; some favourites from the different outlets include Beet Millet Burger, Stuffed Veggie, Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup, Mushroom and Turmeric ‘Risotto’, Vegetable Caponata pasta and more. The café doesn’t lack in drinks either – expect everything from Cold Pressed Juices to Dairy-free Probiotic Drinks to Organic (soy milk) Coffees. In the mood for something sweet? Try the Vegan Chocolate Donut!

Real Food: Several locations, check at Website

Forty Hands

Forty Hands offers you the choice of soy or oat milk to make your coffees vegan-friendly! (Image credit: Forty Hand’s Facebook page)

With outlets at Tiong Bahru and EastCoast, Forty Hands is your neighbourhood barista serving fab coffee and great Australian-style food. The café is quite vegetarian-friendly but lacks on the vegan front with only two dishes that can be made vegan – Banh Mi Bowl and Broccolini Quinoa Salad – besides the fries. The café does offer options of oat milk and soy milk if you’re off dairy, they serve Oatly Oat Milk and Bonsoy Soy Milk at all outlets. Vegetarians can dig into Homemade Granola, Chilli Scram (contains egg) and the 40 Hands Falafel, among other dishes.

40HandsCoffee @ East Coast: 226 East Coast Road, Singapore 428923. P: +65 6877 4860 | 40HandsCoffee @ Tiong Bahru: 78 Yong Siak Street, #01-12, Singapore 163078. P: +65 6225 8545. Website

Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café

A hearty vegan lunch at Well Dressed Salad Bar & Cafe. Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Cafés in Singapore.

A hearty veg lunch at Well Dressed Salad Bar & Cafe

If you want a change from the western cafés, head over to Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café for a more local experience. This cosy little place in Chinatown has a dedicated fan base in the veg community. Try their Vegan Waffles and you’ll know why! They are best known for their fab vegan bakes – you absolutely must try their Chocolate Brownie, which is vegan and gluten-free – but they also serve a range of wonderful plant-based dishes. One of their most popular dishes is the Pow Wow Bao (pulled Jackfruit Burger with veggies and a home-made vegan cheese sauce). Another must-try dish is the Olive Buddha Bowl (3 Bean Patty, Fresh Corn, Carrot, Purple Cabbage, Smoked Mushrooms, Tofu, Scramble and Creamy Guac on a bed of fragrant warm olive rice). You can also get your beverage done with Almond or Soy milk at no extra cost.

Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café: 282 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058831. P: +65 6534 7787. Website

Jewel Changi Airport: A Guide to Vegetarian & Vegan Food, Vegan Drinks & Vegan Shoes at Singapore’s Hot New Destination

April 21, 2019

Jewel Changi Airport finally opens its doors.

From Spanish Tapas to Indian Samosas to Plant-Based Meat Burgers to healthy Açai Bowls to vegan Pizzas and much, much more, vegan and vegetarian food is available aplenty at Jewel Changi Airport. The hot new addition to Changi, Jewel Changi Airport is a stunning mixed-use development with gardens, attractions, retail, dining and a hotel, that was concepted to be the gateway where the world meets Singapore, and Singapore meets the world. Jewel is poised to be the hub for shopping and dining, as also the most loved flight stopover destination globally.

Singapore’ vibrant dining scene is also reflected at Jewel, with its many restaurants offering varied local and international fare. We obviously went hunting for vegan & vegetrain friendly food at Jewel but we did not stop there. Here is EatRoamLive’s Guide to Vegan & Vegetarian Food, Vegan Drinks and Vegan Shoes at Jewel Changi.

Privé

: Prive at Jewel Changi Airport

: Thai Green Curry

: Mediterranean Salad at Prive, Keppel Bay

: The Upper Deck at Prive, Jewel

: View from the Upper Deck

Privé at Jewel Changi Airport has a 100+ seating with an upper deck with great views, overlooking the Jewel. With an all-day menu of western grub, local dishes and baked treats, there is enough to enjoy after a day of shopping. The Mediterranean Salad (S$16) is vegan, colourful and very flavourful, the sort of dish you go back for. Also suitable for vegans are the Mad-For-Mexican Salad, Thai Green Vegetable Curry and Privé Beyond Burger (S$21). If you’re looking for still more vegan sumptuousness, indulge in the 85% Dark Chocolate Cake that comes with a raspberry & chia seed compote. And if you want to try more of Privé’s plant-based dishes, they have a bigger menu at Keppel, check out Vegan & Vegetarian Dining by the Marina, at Privé Keppel Bay: Review.

Privé: #05-204, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666. P:+65-67760777. Website.

Aloha Poké

: Green Giant with 1 scoop of Tofu Poké and 1 scoop of King Mushroom Poké served over Spiced Cauliflower Rice. Topped off with Japanese Garlic Chips.

: Vegetarian Tofu and King Mushroom

Bringing a taste of Hawaii to Singapore, is Aloha Poké with their poké bowls that you can build yourself. Or try their Signature Poké bowl Green Giant (S$17.90, 1 scoop of Tofu Poké and 1 scoop of King Mushroom Poké served over Spiced Cauliflower Rice. Topped off with Japanese Garlic Chips). Top up the bowls with a guilt-free dessert, the Açaĩ Parfait (S$9, Acai berries, topped with granola and fresh berries) that is exclusive to the Jewel outlet.

Aloha Poke: #05-200, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666. Website.

Stuff’D

Whipping up a range of Mexican and Turkish dishes, Stuff’D offers options for many dietary needs. Vegetarians and vegans are covered here with Burritos and Bowls, that you can choose your base, toppings and sauce for. Forego the meat and go straight to the Base with veggies like lettuce, tomato, cucumber and onion as options. Choose 2 sauces from Habanero, Sweet Thai Chilli, Mayo Cucumber, BBQ and Mayo; then choose from a plethora of veg toppings like Corn, Mash Potato, Cilantro Rice, Cous Cous and Black Beans. You can even opt for additional toppings like Guacamole and Hummus at an extra cost. We loved the bowl, but we were dissappointed that they served our bowl in single-use plastic boxes, so next time we plan to eat at Stuff’D Jewel, we shall BYOB.

Stuff’D: #B2-256, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666. Website.

Saravanaa Bhavan Indian Vegetarian at Five Spice

Five Spice is a dynamic market dining concept modelled after the local hawker scene. The food Court offers varied cuisines within, amongst their many stalls is Saravanaa Bhavan Indian Vegetarian Restaurant. Saravanaa Bhavan serves a variety of authentic South Indian, North Indian, Indian Chinese, Rajasthani, Gujarathi delicacies such as Dosa, Pav Bhaji, Channa Batura, Rajasthani Thali (platter), Vegetable Biriyani etc. to allow diners to savour the taste of India.

Saravanaa Bhavan: Five Spice by Food Junction, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, #B2-238/239/240. Singapore 819666.

PizzaExpress

: Dough Balls Doppio – Double portion of the dough balls served with eggplant, balsamic and sundried tomato and walnut dips. (Image credit: PizzaExpress’s Website)

: Omnipork™ Penne Aglio Olio – Omnipork™ flavoured with fennel, water chestnut and oregano and served with garlic, chilli flakes, button mushrooms and rocket. (Image credit: PizzaExpress’s Website)

PizzaExpress is a blessing for vegetarians and vegans as besides having quite a few veg*n options on their regular menu, they also have a whole Verde Menu with vegetarian and vegan recipes that use plant-based meats. Go for their super-popular Doughballs ‘PizzaExpress’ (8 dough balls served with an eggplant dip) with a Quinoa & Kale Salad and a Giardiniera Pizza (Asparagus, butternut squash, mushrooms, roasted peppers, cherry tomatoes, olives, passata, mozzarella and garlic oil. Finished with fresh basil and pesto Genovese) for a complete meal. Or if you’re a fan of plant-based meats, try the Curried Beyond™ Beef Pizza or the Omnipork™ Penne Aglio Olio.

Pizza Express: #03-230, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666. P: +65 6245 9522. Website.

Sankranti & Sankranti Express

: Bhojanam: A platter of rice, bread, vegetable, lentils, yogurt, pickle and dessert (Image credit: Sankranti’s website)

: Zafarani Koftha Curry (Image credit: Sankranti’s website)

: Spicy Sesame Cauliflower (Image credit: Sankranti’s website)

: Lemon Rice (Image credit: Sankranti’s website)

: Kastoori Parantha (Image credit: Sankranti’s website)

Inspired by the cuisine of the Indian Harvest Festival that celebrates the arrival of spring, Sankranti has a lot to offer vegetarians, everything from North Indian to South Indian to Indian Chinese. Dig into Samosa, Masala Kulcha, Zafarani Kofta Curry, Hakka Noodles, Vegetable Manchurian, Chilli Mushroom, Vada Sambar and much, much, more. It is fast food that is convenient and at the same time healthier. For in between meals, or if you don’t have the time to sit down for a meal, grab a snack from Sankranti, Changi Express.

Sankranti: #03-227, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666. P: +65-63764252.
Sankranti Changi Express: #B2-246. Website.

Tapas Club

A Spanish menu helmed by Executive Chef Jose Angel Alonso and one-star Michelin Chef Manuel Berganza, Tapas Club dishes up authentic fare from the Iberian Peninsula. Wake up your sense to Spanish sumptuousness with Paella De Verduras (S$24, Vegetables Paella). Or dig into Spanish Tapas with Patatas Bravas (S$12), Padron Peppers, Mushroom Croquettes, and desserts like Churros Con Chocolate.

Tapas Club: #03-220/221/222, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666. P: +65 6631 8420. Website.

Cedele

Centred around the ‘Eat Well, Be Well’ concept, Cedele is quite vegan friendly. The casual dining cafe chain eschews refined, artificial and processed food. The cafe at Jewel Changi serves a few vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes like Tofu Miso Pasta (with shitake mushroom, pumpkin, edamame, in mild spicy aglio olio, miso dressing), Tofu Nori Salad (grilled tofu, nori leaves, mushrooms, edamame, walnut, plum sesame dressing) and Grilled Veggie sandwich in toasted flatbread, with cheese, toamto, greens, and grilled zucchini, mushrooms, pumpkin, onion, red pepper and pesto. They have a great range of cakes and beverages too.

Cedele: #B1-259, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666. P: +65-68153518. Website.

An Açai Affair

A place that revolves around fresh, healthy eating, An Açai Affair offers Bowls and Smoothies. Pick from the menu – try Lean & Green (Açai with banana cacao or passionfruit mango spirulina, fresh fruits and superfoods) or Pitaya Punch (Açai with pitaya passionfruit sorbet, fresh fruits and superfoods) – or build your own by choosing from options like vegan homemade granola, cacao nibs, goji berries, spirulina and of course a bunch of fruits and nut butters. They also serve Signature Toasts on toasted sourdough bread. Try Berry Crunchy (Cookie butter spread, fresh strawberries & blueberries, crunchy almond flakes) or Bravocado (Almond butter, avocado, honey, topped with chia seeds and a sprinkle of salt). An Açai Affair also features on our list of Best Açai Bowls in Singapore – The Good, the Delightful & the Healthy.

An Açai Affair: #B2-262, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666. Website.

Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung needs no introduction. The international brand has been ranked as one of the world’s Top Ten Best Restaurants by The New York Times. We rank it amogst the Top Vegetarian-Friendly Chinese Restaurants in Singapore as well. Din Tai Fung offers around 18 vegetarian dishes across all restaurants. Recommended ones include Steamed Vegetarian Dumplings, Stewed Beancurd Cubes with Honey Sauce and Fried Rice with Eggs (egg can be removed upon request, to make it vegan), Steamed Yam Paste Xiao Long Bao (vegan).

Din Tai Fung: #03-214/215, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666. Website.

Vegan (Dairy-Free) Drinks at Jewel Changi Airport

When talking about Jewel Changi, worth a mention is Starbucks Reserve™ Coffee Bar, which features an ultra-premium line of coffees that are exotic, rare and exquisite. Each line of single-origin coffee is available only for a limited period and updated seasonally. This is the largest starbucks store in Singapore and it also houses the four-tap Nitro, only the second in Asia, and serves up Nitrogen-infused beverages like Nitro Caramel Macchiato and Nitro Green Tea. Both Starbucks and Starbucks Reserve stores at Jewel offer the option of non-dairy milks like soy and coconut, to make your drink vegan.

Looking for something less caffeinated? Australian juice bar phenomenon, Boost, offers an extensive range of smoothies, freshly squeezed juices and dairy-free crushes. Do note that some of their smoothies use dairy ice-cream while others like Watermelon Lychee Crush and Berry Crush use dairy-free sorbets, so please check on the ingredients before you order.

At Mr Coconut, the coconut based Fresh Juices are dairy-free. At Mr Bean, you can enjoy a variety of soy milk beverages like Watermelon Soya Milk and Icy Sea Salt Chendol. Do note that most soy milk beverages at Mr Bean do not contain dairy/milk but Pearly Taro, Viet Coffee, Icy Chocolate and Matcha Azuki Soy Milk all have some dairy content, so vegans should steer clear of these.
Update: We are currently updating the section on vegan drinks and will add in more options if and as we get confirmations from the stores.

Vegan Shoes at Jewel Changi Airport

: Kids Starburst

Holster Australia offer a comprehensive range of trans-seasonal footwear for women and children, that is PETA-approved vegan-friendly and cruelty-free. From using vegan-friendly materials including jute, rubber, canvas, cotton, fly-knit and man-made fabrics to not harming animals in any way during the production process, every effort is made to embrace a vegan approach in the production of footwear. All shoe boxes are recyclable and packaging is made from recycled materials where possible. The PVC jelly sandals are 100% recyclable and utilise REACH compliant PVC, which means they do not use toxic PVC in their shoes. Note: EatRoamLive readers can get a 10% discount on Holster Australia footwear, on both regular priced and sales items. Discount will be valid across all stores that stock the footwear. Please use code 10ERL upon checkout, discount code is valid till 31st May.

Sole Spirit: #B1-205/206/207, 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666.

Privé Keppel Bay offers Impressive Vegan & Vegetarian Dining by the Marina: Review

April 1, 2019

Prive Keppel Bay, Vegetarian and Vegan, Dining Review

Privé Keppel Bay is a gem of a place that I only discovered quite recently. Located on the water’s edge at Singapore’ only private Island – Keppel Island, it has a lovely ambience with views of the marina. Offering great vegetarian and vegan food, and kid-friendly activities – the restaurant has everything going right. We headed over on a recent weekend and here’s a lowdown on the food and the overall experience.

Vegan Brunch at Privé Keppel Bay

We started off with salads, both vegan. The Mediterranean Salad (S$16++) is colourful and very flavourful – veggies, chickpeas, olives and nuts served on a bed of greens, with a generous dollop of hummus! The greens don’t dominate the salad and fried garlic chips, and the Dukkah add a nice crunch to it. We absolutely loved the salad, a dish worth going back for!

The Mediterranean Salad won the salad round, but the fresh new taste of the day was the Gado Gado Salad (S$16++). The Indonesian favourite offers a big and varied serving of vegetables with a generous amount of peanut sauce, making it a nice and healthy way to start a meal.

Both salads come in big portions that are good enough for sharing, or each salad could be a meal on its own.

For mains, we had Thai Green Vegetable Curry with white rice, which I quite enjoyed. The curry is thick, creamy and textured, and is loaded with fresh vegetables. It isn’t spicy as Thai curries usually are, and has a fusion element to it. I actually liked the low-spice levels as it meant that kids could also get a taste of the dish.

Privé also offers the Vegan Beyond Burger now, which you can enquire about at the restaurant.

For the Kids at Privé Keppel Bay

Well, it’s brunch, so pancakes are a given! We tried the PB&J with Flourless Banana & Oat-Pancakes (S$15++), which contrary to my apprehensions, taste even better than regular pancakes. Topped with fresh bananas, granola, raspberry preserve, berries, pecans and desiccated coconut, and with the goodness of chia seeds and pumpkin seeds, the pancakes are served with 70% chocolate sauce and homemade peanut butter. These are vegan, taste somewhat like cake and were polished off in record time. Highly recommended!

Margherita Pizza (S$18++) followed the pancakes. The thin crust pizza is crispy and very cheesy, a bit too cheesy in my opinion but the kids’ mantra being ‘cheesier the better’, they loved it. Privé can also do a half and half pizza.

Drinks & Vegan Desserts at Privé Keppel Bay

Desserts are usually my least favourite part of a meal but not so at Privé. We tried 2 of the vegan desserts and they were both fantastic!

Coco-Choco Affogato (S$12++) was just the wake-me-up I needed after the big meal. This is espresso with 85% dark chocolate cubes, topped with a big scoop of coconut ice cream. After enjoying a couple of spoons of the ice cream on its own, I let it melt into the espresso, making a thick and strong, coconutty-coffee concoction with chunks of dark chocolate in it. You have to be a coffee person to appreciate this and appreciate it, I did. Warning: Not for the faint hearted!

The Blueberry Almond Cake (S$7++) is amazing as well, it was hard to believe it’s vegan. The cake comes with a generous serving of blueberry coulis on the side, isn’t sickly sweet and is lacking in nothing at all, proving nicely that vegan desserts can be just as sumptuous.

Now, I don’t drink milkshakes but I did try a sip of Strawberry and Marshmallow Milkshake (S$12++) that the kids ordered, and found it to be too sweet. But I was clearly the odd one out, with the kids and their dad hustling over it. Berrylicious (S$10++) was more my thing, delicious and healthier with yogurt as the base.

Ambience & Kid-Friendly Factor

Given that Privé Keppel Bay is located at what you might call the Monte Carlo of Singapore, the views are lovely. The restaurant has a laid back atmosphere and is the perfect place to enjoy a family meal by the water’s edge. Of course, it is always an added bonus when an outlet offers plenty of healthy, vegetarian and vegan options.

Prive is big on the kid-friendly factor, with colouring sets, a little outdoor playground and a kids’ corner with a television airing cartoons. We lucked out further as it was coincidentally Kids’ Day at Privé (every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month), so the kids stayed occupied with a magic show, balloon sculpting and glitter tattoos. These kid friendly activities are offered on Kids’ Days from 12noon to 3pm. The playground and colouring sets are available daily. Needless to say, the restaurant is our new favourite when it comes to Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants that are also Kid-Friendly.

VERDICT & Vegan-Friendly Factor

In short, a perfect place to enjoy a family weekend brunch, with a lovely ambience, great food with plenty of vegan options and activities to keep the kids busy. We had a relaxed afternoon brunching for over 2 hours and we hardly saw the kids. Can’t wait to be back!

Privé Keppel Bay: 2 Keppel Bay Vista, Singapore 098382. P: +65 6776 0777 | Website

Unwind Over the Perfect Vegan or Vegetarian High-Tea Set at The Landing Point @ Fullerton Bay Hotel

October 10, 2018

Updated: 5th June, 2019

As an experience that wowed us last year, the Vegetarian High-Tea at The Landing Point was something that we were only too happy to repeat. So, when I recently heard that Fullerton Bay Hotel is now offering Vegan High Tea as a permanent feature, we found ourselves heading there one fine weekend afternoon, looking forward to a High Tea date where we could unwind over a cuppa, while enjoying resplendant views of Marina Bay’s waterfront.

Located in the posh Fullerton Bay Hotel, The Landing Point is a popular choice for high-powered executives and the socialite set alike. It is also a great option for a relaxed weekend date with your better half. The Afternoon Tea here is a posh affair with dainty sweets and savouries served alongside a variety of coffees, teas & infusions in a luxurious setting, where the staff pampers you as you indulge in food and drinks that are simply fabulous.

At S$50, the Afternoon Tea might seem pricey but with the unlimited drinks, refills of your favourite sweets and savouries, and even a small buffet, it is actually value for money.

Whether you opt for Vegan or Vegetarian, the Afternoon Tea at Landing Point, Fullerton Bay Hotel costs S$50 (weekdays) and S$55 (weekends and public holidays) per person for the set, including free-flowing coffees, teas and iced or hot chocolate. You can also choose to add-on a glass of Moscato or an Artisanal Cocktail at S$10.

* Please note that the Landing Point is currently in the process of updating their Vegetarian & Vegan Afternoon Tea Menus & pricing. We will be updating the info here accordingly, over the next few days.

Warming Up with Beverages

We started out by choosing from a wide selection of beverages, both hot and cold. They offer all kinds of coffees and teas with unlimited refills, and yes, you can choose more than one! The Moroccan Mint is light and flavourful, and Lemon Bush is refreshingly good. As the afternoon progressed, we also tried the Imperial Oolong & Fullerton Express. End the meal with a stellar Cappuccino, vegans can opt for Almond or Soy Milk.

Tiered Goodness

Landing Point’s Afternoon Tea involves an indulgent 3-tiered stand stacked with a range of assorted savouries and dainty desserts. For vegetarians and vegans alike, the choice is ample and delightful too.

THE VEGETARIAN AFTERNOON TEA SET

The Vegetarian Set comes with around 7 savouries and 8 sweets. The menu might change from day to day, and the day of our visit, we enjoyed Cucumber, Tomato, Tapenade Sandwich; Chives Egg Mayonnaise, Wholemeal Bread; Grilled Mediterranean Vegetables, Brioche Roll; Brie Cheese, Plum Jelly on Hazelnut Cracker; Cucumber Cup, Sun-dried Tomato, Feta Cheese and Olive; Poached Beetroot, Avocado Mousse Sunflower Seed Bread; and Truffle Scented Wild Mushroom Duxelle in Waffle Basket.

With his massive sweet tooth, my dining partner enjoyed polishing off the desserts – Assorted Chocolate Pralines; Panna Cotta Raspberries; Chocolate-dipped Strawberry; Vanilla Cream Chocolate Cup; Fruity Berries Tart and Pistachio Trifle. The Berries Tart and the Pistachio Trifle were the winners of the round.

VEGAN AFTERNOON TEA SET

The vegan set started with me being served Vegan Scones alongside beautifully plated Eggplant with Spinach that had grilled juicy eggplant topped with mushrooms and spinach.

I then moved on to the tiered Vegan Set with 8 savouries and 6 sweets. Once again, the menu might be slightly different on any given day, so you might be served dishes that are different to the ones mentioned here. I enjoyed Vine Tomato Stuffed with Mediterranean Quinoa; Mushroom Duxelle with Black Truffle; Classic Tomato & Cucumber Sandwich; Roasted Butternut and Pumpkin Seed on Multigrain Bread; Beetroot Jewel with Guacamole and Sunflower Seed; Crispy Vegetables Tortilla Roll; and Chick Pea Falafel Topped with Hummus.

The savouries were all excellent and it was hard to find fault with anything, the Tortilla Rolls and Roasted Butternut and Pumpkin Seed on Multigrain Bread were a notch above the rest and the Mushroom Duxelle with Black Truffle was the star of the meal.

Moving on, desserts consisted of Strawberries Compote in Shooter Glass; Mango Compote with Mix Berries; Assorted Chocolate Pralines, Minestrone of Fruit Shooter, Red Wine Poached Pear and Chocolate Cup filled with Passion Fruit Sauce. The desserts were all exquisite, just the way I like them; neither sickly sweet and nor too creamy either.

VEGETARIAN vs VEGAN

I opted for the Vegan High Tea set, while my partner chose the Vegetarian Set. I did try most of the sweets and savouries from the Vegetarian Set as well and found the Vegan Set to be the clear winner (except the scones, where the regular ones taste better than the vegan ones). My dining partner, who is not the least bit vegan, agreed.

The Buffet

After polishing off the 3 tiers, we headed over to the buffet. Vegetarian dishes on offer for the day included Vegetarian Money Bag, Plain & Raisin Scones and Romanesco Tomato Penne Pasta. To the best of my knowledge, the pasta and money bags were vegan. After this final bit of nosh, we ended the experience with coffees.

Verdict

The Afternoon Tea at The Landing Point @ The Fullerton Bay Hotel is a fabulous experience that I’d highly recommend. Just sit back, relax and unwind over fantastic eats amidst luxury with a view. Or better still, head there over a weekend for a High Tea date; if you’re not a big eater, this could even be lunch as they have the first seating at 12:00-2:00 PM.

As mentioned, we tried both the Vegetarian and the Vegan High Tea Sets and would rank the Vegan Set higher. We also recommend making a reservation before you head down and do let them know of your vegan preference beforehand so as to avoid having to wait for your vegan set to arrive.

The Landing Point: The Fullerton Bay Hotel, 80 Collyer Quay Singapore 049326. P: +65 6333 8388 | Weekdays – Available daily from 3.00pm to 5.30pm | Weekends & PH – First Seating at 12:00pm to 02:00pm, Second Seating at 03:00pm to 05:00pm

Also Read:
Vegan & Vegetarian Dining by the Marina, at Prive Keppel Bay
Mezza9, Grand Hyatt, Singapore: Veg*n Multi-Cuisine Dining
Coffee & Chit-chat at the Child-friendly Caffè Vergnano 1882, Singapore
Best Açai Bowls in Singapore – The Good, the Delightful & the Healthy

Hans Im Glück: Hearty & Healthy Vegan & Vegetarian Burgers in a Fairy-Tale Ambience

August 12, 2018

Hans Im Glück, the well-known German burger grill and bar, opened its first international outlet in Singapore in late 2017. I was excited as working for a German firm has entitled me to a fair bit of culinary exploration on my work trips to Deutschland and at our in-house events in Singapore, so I knew a trip over was long overdue.

For the uninitiated, Hans Im Glück is a famous fairytale of German origin written by the Grimm brothers. The namesake restaurant takes great pride in recreating a rustic German experience, in a quaint corner amidst the racing traffic and buzzing crowds of Orchard; right here in Singapore. As you walk in, you are transported to a lush green forest of birch trees and other elements that recreate the fairytale. A menu that resembles a book, attentive and super friendly staff, and delightful veg options contribute to the fairy-tale experience.

As I sat down, a couple of things that caught my eye are worth a mention. These folks live upto their philosophy of making a difference in every little detail. There are tiny allergen cards at the tables, which painstakingly list out the possible allergens in each dish on the menu, ensuring that the guests make an informed choice while ordering. Secondly, at Hans, water isn’t served free of charge. Before you get annoyed, know that 100% of the revenue from the sale of water goes to a charitable cause.

The seating is very garden like and each table has a rosemary plant and a set of sauces that are vegan. Choose from orange mustard, mayonnaise, chilli or spicy bbq to complement your meal. With all this, no wonder that Hans’s burgers find a place in our list of 11 Best Vegetarian and Vegan Burgers in Singapore.

Vegan & Vegetarian Burgers at Hans Im Gluck

A Fairy-Tale like setting (Image source: Hans Im Glück’s FB page)

Vegan & Vegetarian Burgers & Sides at Hans Im Glück

The menu is exhaustive – with plentiful options for vegans and vegetarians too. We began our evening with a portion of the Beer Battered Onion Rings ($10). A light and flaky exterior cooked to perfection, these rings will likely disappear in no time.

Time to choose the burgers! You can opt to have them in sourdough bun, multigrain bun or naked (without any bun). There is also a good selection of sides and drinks, both alcoholic and non alcoholic, to go with your meal. As part of their evening meal options, each burger can be teamed up with a side and a drink (cocktail/mocktail or beer) at a nominal top-up of S$15. All burgers are served on a bed of lettuce, sliced onion rings, sun-dried tomatoes and the secret Hans Im Glück sauce (hint – don’t miss the whiff of wasabi in the sauce).

Vegan Fabulhafter with a thick wheat patty, generous layers of avocado cream, orange-mustard sauce and herb salad in a multi-grain bun; alongside Krautknolle, a traditional German white cabbage salad with potato dressing

We ordered the Fabulhafter (S$17), a vegan burger with a thick wheat patty coated with generous layers of avocado cream, orange-mustard sauce and herb salad in the multigrainbun. The patty was slightly dry but chewy and made for a good base. The soft avocado cream mixed with the veggies, the orange-mustard and the Hans sauce tantalised the tastebuds and had me reaching for more. The bun was soft and stayed that way even when it cooled down which was a big plus. There are 4 vegan burgers on the menu, another popular vegan burger option here (that we unfortnately, had to leave for next time) is the Juglans, which has a wheat patty with lingonberries, sprouts & walnuts.

Vegetarian Wolpertinger in a sourdough bun – a spicy patty of carrot and corn with avocado cream and aged cheddar cheese

From the choice of available 7 vegetarian burgers, we tried the Wolpertinger (S$16) in a sourdough bun – a spicy patty of carrot and corn with avocado cream and aged cheddar cheese. A dash of the vegan bbq sauce and you’ll be biting into a delectable combination that you will relish. The sourdough bun makes for a buffer base to the fiery patty, not everyone might be able to take this one naked.

For the sides, we tried Krautknolle (S$6), a traditional German white cabbage salad with potato dressing. The salad was moist with a mildly tangy flavour, and retained its crunchy texture, refreshing our taste buds in between bites of the burger. However, the winning side dish was Süsskartoffel-Fritten aka Sweet Potato Fries (S$6) – crunchy, healthier, well flavoured and perfect when dipped into the orange mustard or the bbq sauce.

The Drinks at Hans Im Glück

For drinks, some interesting-sounding cocktails caught my attention: Dragon’s Tongue (Rum based), Ginger Dream (Bourbon and Vodka based) and Chilli Mojito (your regular lime Mojito with Chilli Padi). I was told that these have been curated at the grill recently and have been super popular since. However, I opted for the mocktail Minne (S$10), an interesting and refreshing concoction of lingonberry, lime, fresh ginger and Fever-Tree ginger beer. Eating at a German grill and nor ordering a beer would just be wrong, so Ganesh opted for the smooth and mild Bavaria Keller (S$13).

Verdict

The burgers at Hans Im Glück are fresh, healthy and handcrafted – a far cry from the greasy, calorie rich burgers that a fast food joint offers. The taste, along with the reassurance of measured calories, makes it a happier meal. The fairy-tale like ambience and the fun cheerful staff make sure your dining experience is memorable. The eye for detail and the endeavour to make a difference to the community is heartening.

A hearty meal for two would cost you around S$60-80 for a burger, side and a drink as part of the evening dinner promotion. However, a-la carte vegan and vegetarian burgers are priced between S$14-17 each, and the sides cost S$6-10 each. They also offer a wide assortment of drinks, ranging from beers to wines to cocktails & mocktails priced between S$8-14.

Overall, Hans Im Glück scores high on my repeat-o-meter and I am sure I will be headed back soon. Maltzeit ot Guten Appetit – Hans Im Glück beckons!

Hans Im Glück: Orchard Road 362, 238887 Singapore. P: +65 97501488 | 9 Raffles Place. #01-01 Republic Plaza, Singapore 048619 | 71 Boat Quay, Singapore 049860

Category: Cafés

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Savoury Breakfast/Brunch Pleasures at Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café

Sweet Breakfast/Brunch Specials at Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café

VERDICT: Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café

Carrotsticks & Cravings

Tiong Bahru Bakery @ Raffles City Shopping Centre

The Living Café

Real Food

Forty Hands

Well Dressed Salad Bar & Café

Privé

Aloha Poké

Stuff’D

Saravanaa Bhavan Indian Vegetarian at Five Spice

PizzaExpress

Sankranti & Sankranti Express

Tapas Club

Cedele

An Açai Affair

Din Tai Fung

Vegan (Dairy-Free) Drinks at Jewel Changi Airport

Vegan Shoes at Jewel Changi Airport

Vegan Brunch at Privé Keppel Bay

For the Kids at Privé Keppel Bay

Drinks & Vegan Desserts at Privé Keppel Bay

Ambience & Kid-Friendly Factor

VERDICT & Vegan-Friendly Factor

Warming Up with Beverages

Tiered Goodness

THE VEGETARIAN AFTERNOON TEA SET

VEGAN AFTERNOON TEA SET

VEGETARIAN vs VEGAN

The Buffet

Verdict

Vegan & Vegetarian Burgers & Sides at Hans Im Glück

The Drinks at Hans Im Glück

Verdict