Nestled along Scotts Road in Orchard lies a culinary haven – INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining, a Michelin Bib Gourmand Award-winning gem. This unassuming spot, hidden amidst lush greenery, brings to life the rich and vibrant flavors of classic Peranakan cuisine while seamlessly integrating contemporary twists.
Step into The House of INDOCAFÉ, a charming colonial house of white that echoes the restaurant’s commitment to upholding the age-old Peranakan recipes. Here, the Peranakan community’s cultural tapestry is woven into the very essence of each dish, offering an authentic journey away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
A Maestro in the Kitchen: Chef Heng Eng Ho
Meet Chef Heng Eng Ho, a Penang-born culinary maestro with over two decades of experience. His passion for Peranakan cuisine was ignited in childhood, inspired by the mesmerizing flavors of Assam Laksa. Under various talented mentors, Chef Ho developed a unique style that combines tradition with innovation.
Classic Delights and Contemporary Surprises
The menu at INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining is a symphony of tried-and-tested classics and contemporary creations. Signature Kueh Pie Tee, Ngoh Hiang, and Nonya Otah Otah tantalize the taste buds with their rich flavors and textures. The Itek Tim, a salted vegetable duck leg soup, is a Peranakan tradition brought to life with tenderness, tartness, and a dash of brandy.
Exquisite Main Courses: Indulge in Ayam Buah Keluak, a chicken dish with caramelized buah keluak black nut, or savor the succulent Babi Pongteh, featuring Spanish Iberico pork belly marinated to perfection. The INDOCAFÉ Wagyu Beef Rendang elevates the classic with premium Wagyu beef cheek, creating an explosion of flavors that lingers.
Seafood Sensations: Seafood lovers are in for a treat with Ikan Sambal Bunga Kantan, showcasing Patagonian toothfish in a fiery sambal, and Udang Tempoyak Durian, a dish that pairs Argentinean red prawns with fermented durian tempoyak and red chili paste.
Vegetarian Marvels: Vegetarian options like Sambal Petai Udang and Nonya Chap Chye present twisted cluster beans stir-fried with sambal and braised vegetables sweetened with fermented bean paste, respectively.
Innovative Rice Dishes and Noodles: Rice lovers can revel in Buah Keluak Fried Rice, offering buttery savors of buah keluak, while noodle enthusiasts can savor Assam Laksa’s sour and spicy notes or opt for the Dry Laksa – a soupless rendition bursting with laksa’s bold flavors.
Sweet Endings: Complete your Peranakan feast with Sago Gula Melaka, a sticky sago pudding sweetened with fragrant gula melaka, or Signature Kueh Salat – glutinous rice with pandan coconut custard.
Signature Tasting Menu: For the ultimate experience, surrender your choices to Chef Ho’s expertise with the Signature Tasting Menu. Six courses featuring communal sharing dishes, like Babi Pongteh and Ikan Sambal Bunga Kantan, offer a comprehensive exploration of Peranakan delights at $98++ per person.
Exotic Coffee Pairings: Complement your feast with exotic coffee blends. The Gesha Passiflora from Colombia blooms with bright notes of bergamot, passionfruit, and jasmine, while the Kerinci from Indonesia seduces with tropical fruits, berries, and a wine-like sweet finish.
A Cultural Homage
Beyond the culinary journey, INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining pays homage to Peranakan culture. Admire framed artworks showcasing the iconic Kebaya and intricate Blackwood Furniture with mother-of-pearl inlays. Peranakan Embroidery, with its colorful and intricate patterns, adds an extra layer of richness to the ambiance.
