Singapore is never short of good local food, but few places have managed to create as much buzz as Bao Er Cafe. Hidden away in Balestier Plaza, Bao Er Cafe has become a popular destination for diners craving two local favourites, their smoky Fried Hokkien Mee and fragrant homemade Kaya Butter Toast.
Signature Deluxe Hokkien Mee
The star of the menu is undoubtedly the Bao Er Cafe’s Signature Deluxe Hokkien Mee. Unlike the drier versions found elsewhere, Bao Er serves a wetter style that’s coated in a rich prawn and pork broth. Every plate is cooked over high heat, giving the noodles a distinctive wok hei aroma that greets you the moment it arrives.
The combination of yellow noodles and bee hoon absorbs the savoury stock beautifully, while generous portions of prawns, squid, scallops, pork belly and crispy pork lard make every mouthful satisfying. A squeeze of fresh lime brightens the flavours, while their homemade sambal adds a spicy kick without overpowering the sweetness of the seafood.
Prawn Noodle Soup
Besides their famous Fried Hokkien Mee, Bao Er Cafe’s Prawn Noodle Soup is another dish worth trying, which I ordered, and it didn’t disappoint. The broth had a deep, naturally sweet prawn flavour and it wasn’t overly rich. The prawns were fresh and juicy, while the pork slices were tender.
Homemade Kaya Butter Toast
Another star of the menu that must-order is Bao Er Cafe’s famous Kaya Butter Toast, which has gained plenty of attention among local food lovers. Instead of using commercially made kaya, Bao Er prepares its own homemade version, giving it a lighter, more natural coconut fragrance that isn’t overly sweet.
The toast itself is incredibly thin and crispy, creating the perfect contrast with a slab of cold butter tucked between the slices. Bao Er Cafe is generous with its homemade kaya, spreading a thick layer that delivers a rich coconut fragrance and balanced sweetness in every bite. As the butter slowly melts into the warm toast, it blends beautifully with the creamy kaya, creating a simple yet irresistibly addictive combination.
Peanut Butter Toast
The toast offers a satisfying crunch, followed by the fragrant peanut butter that pairs wonderfully with the warm toast.
The toast is perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining light and airy inside. It’s generously spread with smooth, creamy peanut butter that is rich, nutty, and not overly sweet with a slab of cold butter tucked between the slices.
More Than Just Hokkien Mee
Although the Hokkien Mee and Kaya Toast are the biggest attractions, Bao Er Cafe also offers a variety of local favourites, including fried rice, bee hoon, prawn noodles and sandwiches. Many of these dishes are also cooked with the same emphasis on strong wok hei and generous portions, making it a good spot whether you’re visiting for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Is Bao Er Cafe Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Bao Er Cafe successfully combines two iconic Singapore dishes under one roof. The Fried Hokkien Mee delivers rich seafood flavours with satisfying wok hei, while the homemade Kaya Butter Toast offers a nostalgic breakfast that’s difficult to resist.
Do note that the café is often crowded during peak meal hours, especially on weekends, so be prepared to queue.
Whether you’re a local looking for your next comfort meal or a visitor wanting to experience authentic Singapore flavours, Bao Er Cafe deserves a spot on your food list.
Must-try dishes:
- Signature Fried Hokkien Mee
- Signature Deluxe Hokkien Mee
- Homemade Kaya Butter Toast
If you’re searching for a place that serves both one of Singapore’s most talked-about Fried Hokkien Mee and an excellent homemade Kaya Butter Toast, Bao Er Cafe is definitely worth checking out.
If you are a Hokkien Mee lover, you can also check out my review on Ah Huat Hokkien Prawn Mee. You can also follow Crazyfoodgia on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.
Location:
400 Balestier Rd, #02-01 Balestier Plaza, Singapore 329802
You can find directions on HERE
Operating Hours:
Mon to Sun 8:00AM - 8:00PM
