Sure, we love our modern cafés with snazzy interiors, but there's definitely a special place in our hearts for old-school eateries like the Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe. Opened in August by Keith Kang, the owner of Yang Ming Seafood, this olden-day 70-seater kopitiam tucked along the streets of Craig Road pays homage to the beloved kopitiams of yesteryears, particularly those from the 1950s to the 1980s.
With its nostalgic interiors, it offers a trip down memory lane for the older generation to relive the good ol’ days and for the younger crowd to have a taste of what the past was like. Think rustic metal window grills, traditional wooden carved sign boards, gritty brick walls and classic marble tables. You'll also find charming details like vintage newspaper clippings, retro movie posters, a well-preserved music record player, and walls adorned with wallpaper depicting scenes from bygone eras.
Here, savour local favourites like their dry mee siam (from $8.90) and hor fun with egg ($6.90). There’s also fragrant nasi lemak kukus (from $8.90), paired with a protein of your choice – curry chicken, sambal petai prawn and rendang mutton.
If you’re in the mood for some light eats, then indulge in their traditional kaya butter toast ($2.50), bolo bun ($4.80) and curry leaves french fries ($4.80). Their french toast (from $4.50) is also a must-try – entirely crisped on all sides, served with a side of homemade kaya, peanut butter or slices of cheesy ham.
Be sure not to miss out on their signature kopi (from $1.90) as well, one that truly packs a punch – served in an oversized cup with foam cascading over its brim. Not one for caffeine? Then quench your thirst with their lemon with sour plum ($5) or Ribena lemon sparking ($5).