The shop’s second-gen owner is Bernard Koung (pictured), 39, whose parents started the eatery as a pushcart in 1964. Bernard himself has been helping his folks since he was 21, and decided to modernise his family biz by opening an air-conditioned mall outlet à la Katong’s Eng’s Wantan Noodle, which also branched out into shopping malls in 2018. He will be based at the Jem branch once it opens, while the senior Mr Koung will continue to cook at the original stall.

The 35-seat outlet is located at Jurong East mall Jem’s basement, and is slated to open on August 25. Coincidentally, it takes over the space that formerly housed Pontian Wanton Noodles. The outlet offers the same dishes as the original Geylang kopitiam stall, albeit in comfier surrounds. But of course, you’ll have to pay a premium for the fancier digs.

Prices will be slightly higher at the mall branch, compared to the hawker stall. For instance, a classic plate of Wanton Noodle (Dry/Soup) goes for $4.80 at Jem ($5.80 for an upsized portion), and $4 in Geylang. You can also order an a la carte plate of Roasted Char Siew ($5 for 100g), which the Geylang stall doesn’t serve. There will also be a small selection of beverages like coffee and tea, as well as desserts like red and green bean soup.

Check out the rest of the dishes below (prices for Jem outlet).

#B1-K14 Jem, 50 Jurong Gateway Rd, S608549. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.facebook.com/koungwtm.

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