1. HOUSE OF ANLI
You may think this bistro resembles a super chic homeware store, and you’re half-right. Its owner, Belgian designer Anne-Jean Liétaer (An-Li, geddit?), had started her business selling luxury European homeware before adding a diner at the back of the spacious store recently. The impossibly stylish, light-flooded space features sleek dining ware (including fancy cutlery from French knife-maker Laguiole) stocked in Liétaer’s shop and food made using her family’s recipes.
Meanwhile, the Sourdough Toast with Smoked Eel and Avocado ($26) is pretty yummy, if stingily portioned for the price. Oh, and skip the so-so coffee and get the spicy house-made Honey Ginger Tea instead. Still, we think the food isn't the main draw here — the gorgeous decor is.
#03-17 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Rd, S247933. Tel: 6235-3851. Open daily 9am-9pm. Last orders at 9pm. www.houseofanli.com
2. ENCHANTED CAFE
A whimsical cafe opened by two 23-year-old pals who met while pursuing Business Studies at Ngee Ann Polytechnic. The young towkays also worked stints as a home baker, and a barista at cafes like Jewel Coffee.
88 Rangoon Rd, S218374. Tel: 8813-1086. Open daily except Mon. Tues 10am-10pm, Wed-Thurs noon-10pm, Fri 11am-11pm, Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 11am-8pm. Last order 30 mins before closing. www.facebook.com/EnchantedCafeSg
3. ERGON DELI
This is a franchised outlet of Greek cafe chain Ergon (it has branches in London and its native Greece), opened by a Greek owner. The head chef here is Greek, too. The brunch-friendly spot within Suntec City is a cosy, rustic spot with warm wood accents and plants.
#01-365 Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Blvd, S038983. Tel: 8360-3616. Open daily Mon-Thur 8.30am-10pm, Fri 8.30am-11pm, Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-9pm. Last orders 30 mins before closing. www.facebook.com/ergonfoodssg