For too long, the foodies of Singapore have reduced Springleaf to a single roti prata spot. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing else to explore in the neighbourhood.
In fact, the range of food and drink options in the once-sleepy hollow — on the fringes of Upper Thomson’s bustling scene — is pretty extensive, with everything from classic zi char restaurants to modern Japanese izakayas.
The trip to Springleaf doesn’t have to take forever, either. After all, it’s now easily accessible even for those who don’t plan on driving, thanks to the Thomson-East Coast Line. Here are our top picks for where to go and what to eat while you’re in the area.
Miyuki Izakaya
25 Springside Green
#01-13, The Brooks 2
Singapore 786015
Tel: +65 8268 7569
Opening hours: Lunch served Tuesday to Sunday, 11.30am – 2.30pm; dinner served Tuesday to Thursday, 5.30pm – 10.30pm, Friday and Saturday, 5.30pm – 11pm, Sunday, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
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This wallet-friendly izakaya serves up a menu of Japanese classics. Try the “salmon overload” roll ($17.90++), which combines flame-torched salmon, avocado, egg and mentaiko sauce with mounds of ikura. Of note is the sushi rice, made with red akasu vinegar for a lightly tangy, umami flavour.
The binchotan grill at Miyuki Izakaya means a number of smoky dishes with touches of char, including the ribeye steak ($39++ for 300g), served with flaky salt, garlic chips and pickled wasabi.
There’s also an extensive list of sakes here, such as the fruity, refreshing Nanawarai Junmai Ginjo Shiboritate ($99++ for 720ml); those who like their drinks drier can opt for the Nagara River Ultimate Dry Junmai Super Dry +20 ($108++ for 720ml).
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Bernie’s Restaurant
924 Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 787119
Tel: +65 8491 6395
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 11.30am – 10pm; Saturday and Sunday, 9.30am – 10pm
For casual American fare, head to Bernie’s Restaurant, located right outside Springleaf MRT station. Highlights here include the grilled lamb chops ($29), served with mushroom and mint sauces and the barramundi ($26) with grilled vegetables on the side.
Bernie’s also offers a brunch menu, including the hilariously named Why Americans Are So Heavy Breakfast ($24), a large platter of eggs, potatoes, sausages and anything else you might want out of a super heavy breakfast. And for tipples, there’s a solid list of wines, spirits, beers and cocktails.
Thai Hao Chi Mookata
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908 Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 787111
Tel: +65 8553 5581
Opening hours: Daily, 5pm – 12.30am
When night falls and the mercury dips — as far as it goes for Singapore, at least — mookata is a good option for those seeking something to warm up with.
At Thai Hao Chi Mookata, you’ll be given the classic domed mookata charcoal grill, with a surrounding moat of flavourful broth. The Yum Mak Mak set ($29.90) easily feeds two to three, with a generous spread of marinated meats, seafood and vegetables.
Oops Kitchen
60 Springside Walk
#01-16 Brooks 1
Singapore 786020
Tel: +65 6908 4321
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm – 10.30pm
Over at Brooks 1, there’s Oops Kitchen, which offers home-style cooking across a variety of cuisines. If you’re in the mood for classic local dishes, try the signature prawn paste chicken wings ($20 for five), which is served boneless so you don’t need to wrestle with your food.
Other standouts on the menu include rich Nyonya laksa ($10.90) and crispy oyster omelette ($14). Oops Kitchen also has several local desserts, from cendol ($5.90) to pulut hitam with ice cream ($5.90).
