TEXT: YASMEEN HAMEED-CHAN
PHOTOS: ANGELA GUO/SPH LIBRARY
Prima Tower Revolving Restaurant
If the term “revolving restaurant” sends flashbacks of the ’80s your way, you might just have this Chinese eatery to thank for that. At Singapore’s last remaining revolving restaurant, kitschy details include redwood furnishing and Lazy Susan-topped tables.
WHERE: 201 Keppel Road, Singapore 099419
Islamic Restaurant
Singaporeans love their biryani, and debate abounds as to where the best is found. But this establishment holds a special place in many a biryani lover’s heart. Opened in 1921, its signature mutton dum biryani is among the best in the country.
WHERE: 745 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198713
Shashlik
Dishes don’t get any more retro than Borsch soup and Cherry Jubilee – and these are two of the highlights at this Russo-Hainanese restaurant. Enjoy these and many other classic dishes as they are rolled out on trolleys, very old school style!
WHERE: 545 Orchard Road, Singapore 238882
Ananda Bhavan
Anyone who knows his or her Indian breakfasts (and no, prata is not an Indian breakfast) will know of Ananda Bhavan and its made-to-order appams. It has been serving this and other classic Indian vegetarian fare since its establishment in 1924, making it the oldest Indian vegetarian restaurant in Singapore.
WHERE: 221 Selegie Road, Singapore 188340
Chin Mee Chin
You can’t help but get a shot of nostalgia when you step into this old-school coffee shop. Serving freshly made pastries and kaya toasts since the 1950s, this hugely popular eatery along East Coast Road often sees the pastries selling out fast.
WHERE: 204 East Coast Road, Singapore 428903