Tanglin Mall Dining Experience

by | Dec 14, 2025 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Overview & Ambience

Tanglin Mall offers a refined yet relaxed dining atmosphere, positioned as an upscale alternative to the busier Orchard shopping districts. Located near Orchard Boulevard MRT Station, the mall attracts a mix of expatriates, families, and professionals seeking quality meals in a less crowded environment.

Overall Atmosphere Traits:

  • Spacious, well-lit dining areas with modern interior design
  • Quieter than mainstream Orchard malls, ideal for conversations
  • Mix of casual and upscale dining options across three levels
  • Family-friendly with accessible facilities
  • Parking available for convenient visits

Featured Eatery Reviews

1. Poke Theory (Halal)

Location: #02-126 | Hours: Daily 10am-8pm

Ambience Analysis: Clean, minimalist design with bright lighting. Counter-style ordering with casual seating arrangements. Modern Hawaiian-inspired décor with oceanic color schemes.

Menu Essence: Build-your-own poke bowls with customizable bases, proteins, toppings, and sauces. Focus on fresh, healthy ingredients with Asian-fusion flavors.

Signature Dishes:

O.G. Salmon Bowl ($15.90)

  • Protein: Fresh salmon cubes
  • Base: Sushi rice
  • Toppings: Corn salsa, cherry tomatoes, carrots, wakame seaweed, pickled onions, ramen egg
  • Flavor Profile: Savory-sweet with umami depth, fresh oceanic notes
  • Traits: High protein, omega-3 rich, colorful presentation
  • Best For: Lunch crowds, health-conscious diners

Tempeh-Tress Bowl ($15.90) – Vegan

  • Protein: Umami tempeh pieces
  • Features: Plant-based, protein-rich alternative
  • Essence: Earthy, nutty flavors with Asian spices

Dish Analysis – Price to Value: At $15.90, portions are generous with quality ingredients justifying the premium pricing. Each bowl contains 8-10 different components creating complex flavor layers.

2. Heavenly Wang (Halal)

Location: #B1-127 | Hours: Daily 8:30am-8:30pm

Ambience: Traditional kopitiam atmosphere with functional seating. Nostalgic 1950s Singapore coffee house vibes. Quick-service counter style.

Menu Facets: Classic Singaporean breakfast staples: kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, traditional kopi and teh.

Signature Dish Deep Dive:

Kaya Butter Set ($6)

Components:

  • 4 thin-sliced toast, crisply toasted
  • House-made kaya (coconut egg jam)
  • Thick-cut cold butter squares
  • 2 soft-boiled eggs
  • Large cup of kopi (traditional coffee)

Cooking Technique Analysis:

  • Toast: Charcoal-grilled for smoky aroma and crispy texture
  • Eggs: Precise 6-minute boil for custardy consistency
  • Kaya: Slow-cooked pandan coconut cream with eggs and sugar

Flavor Traits:

  • Sweet: Rich kaya with caramel notes
  • Savory: Salted butter contrast
  • Creamy: Silky egg texture
  • Aromatic: Pandan fragrance, coffee bitterness

Recipe Recreation: Traditional Kaya Toast at Home

Kaya Spread (Makes ~500ml):

Ingredients:
- 10 eggs
- 400ml coconut milk
- 300g sugar
- 5 pandan leaves (knotted)

Instructions:
1. Whisk eggs in double boiler over simmering water
2. Add coconut milk and sugar gradually
3. Add pandan leaves for fragrance
4. Stir constantly for 1.5-2 hours until thick and caramelized
5. Remove pandan, cool and store refrigerated

Cooking Notes:
- Low heat prevents curdling
- Constant stirring ensures smooth texture
- Caramelization develops deep flavor

3. B For Bagel (Non-Halal)

Location: #B1-125 | Hours: Daily 8:30am-4:30pm

Ambience Features: Korean café aesthetic with pastel colors, wooden furniture, and natural lighting. Instagram-worthy presentation style. Cozy corner seating ideal for casual meetings.

Menu Characteristics: Korean-style bagels with creative fillings, specialty coffee including Einspanner (Vienna coffee).

Featured Dishes:

Smoked Salmon Bagel ($16.90)

Construction Layers:

  1. Korean-style bagel (denser, chewier than NY style)
  2. Cream cheese base
  3. Smoked salmon slices
  4. Fresh dill
  5. Spring onions
  6. Tomato slices
  7. Red onions

Traits:

  • Texture contrast: Chewy bagel vs. silky salmon
  • Flavor balance: Smoky, tangy, fresh, aromatic
  • Portion: Substantial for brunch

Bacon Cheese Omelette Bagel ($15.90)

  • Sweet-savory fusion with maple syrup finish
  • Cheddar, egg, bacon, dill yoghurt sauce
  • Korean twist on American classic

Einspanner Coffee ($6.50+) Description: Espresso topped with sweetened whipped cream Origin: Viennese coffee tradition, popular in Korea Essence: Bitter-sweet contrast, visually striking layers

4. Market Blue (Non-Halal)

Location: #B1-122 | Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, 5pm-9pm

Ambience: Multi-concept lifestyle store with integrated kopitiam. Modern Korean-Singaporean fusion décor. Communal dining tables encourage social interaction.

Signature Analysis:

Cheese Dak Galbi ($38.80++)

Dish Composition:

  • Spicy stir-fried chicken pieces
  • Cabbage wedges
  • Chewy rice cakes (tteokbokki style)
  • Generous mozzarella cheese topping
  • Gochugaru-based spice blend

Cooking Method: Served in large flat pan (similar to Korean BBQ), cooked tableside or in kitchen. High-heat stir-frying creates caramelization while maintaining vegetable crunch.

Flavor Profile:

  • Spice Level: Medium (manageable for most)
  • Cheese: Adds creamy richness, tempers heat
  • Umami: From gochujang and caramelized proteins
  • Texture: Chewy, crispy, creamy contrasts

Serving Style: Family-style sharing portion

Soybean Stew ($9.90++)

  • Korean doenjang jjigae style
  • Pork slices, tofu chunks, sliced leek
  • Ground sesame seeds
  • Function: Heat-quelling side dish

Recipe: Korean Cheese Dak Galbi (Home Version)

Ingredients (Serves 4):

- 800g chicken thigh, cubed
- 300g cabbage, chopped
- 200g tteok (rice cakes)
- 200g mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp gochugaru (chili flakes)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 spring onions
- 1 tbsp sesame oil

Marinade Preparation:
1. Mix gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, garlic
2. Coat chicken, marinate 30+ minutes

Cooking Instructions:
1. Heat large flat pan or wok on high
2. Add sesame oil, stir-fry marinated chicken 5 min
3. Add onions and cabbage, stir-fry 3 min
4. Add rice cakes with 1/4 cup water, cover 3 min
5. Once rice cakes soften, create space in center
6. Add mozzarella cheese in middle, cover until melted
7. Garnish with spring onions
8. Serve immediately while cheese is stretchy

Chef's Notes:
- Soak rice cakes in water 10 min before cooking
- Adjust gochugaru for spice preference
- Use cast iron for authentic presentation
- Can substitute with sweet potato for healthier option

5. Little Farms Table (Non-Halal)

Location: #02-138 | Hours: Sun-Thu 7:30am-9:30pm, Fri-Sat 7:30am-10pm

Ambience Essence: Farm-to-table concept with rustic-chic décor. Natural wood finishes, greenery accents, and artisanal presentation. Premium casual atmosphere.

Philosophy: Focus on fresh, quality produce with minimal processing. House-baked breads and locally-sourced ingredients where possible.

Featured Dishes:

Avocado Smash on Sourdough ($21++)

Component Analysis:

  • House-baked sourdough: Crusty exterior, airy crumb
  • Smashed avocado: Hass variety, perfectly ripe
  • Poached eggs: Runny yolk, firm whites
  • Microgreens and seeds for garnish

Traits:

  • Clean eating focused
  • Photogenic presentation
  • Premium ingredient quality justifies price
  • Nutrient-dense: Healthy fats, protein, fiber

Flavor Notes: Buttery avocado, tangy sourdough, creamy egg yolk, subtle saltiness. Simple but elevated execution.

Grass-Fed Beef Burger ($25++)

Burger Construction:

  1. Brioche or potato bun
  2. Grass-fed beef patty (150-180g)
  3. Cheddar cheese slice
  4. Lettuce, tomato, pickles
  5. Onions (caramelized or raw)
  6. Creamy Russian dressing
  7. Side of fries included

Features:

  • Grass-fed beef: Leaner, more complex flavor
  • Juicy patty with pink center
  • Balanced toppings don’t overpower meat
  • Quality-to-price appropriate for premium positioning

Recipe: Perfect Poached Eggs (Little Farms Style)

Technique:
1. Bring water to gentle simmer (not rolling boil)
2. Add 1 tbsp white vinegar (helps whites coagulate)
3. Create gentle whirlpool with spoon
4. Crack egg into small bowl first
5. Gently slide egg into center of whirlpool
6. Cook 3-4 minutes for runny yolk
7. Remove with slotted spoon
8. Drain on paper towel

Pro Tips:
- Use fresh eggs (whites hold better)
- Water temp: 180-190°F / 82-88°C
- Don't salt water (causes whites to break apart)
- Can poach multiple eggs, but one at a time for beginners

6. Cedele Bakery (Non-Halal)

Location: #B1-130 | Hours: Daily 9am-8pm

Ambience: Bright, aromatic bakery café with display cases showcasing fresh baked goods. Casual counter service with some seating. Health-conscious positioning.

Menu Philosophy: Wholegrain options, no artificial additives, no trans fats. Focus on nutritious yet indulgent baked goods.

Signature Items:

Carrot Walnut Cake Slice ($9.50)

Layer Analysis:

  • Moist carrot cake: Grated carrots, cinnamon, nutmeg
  • Cream cheese frosting: Velvety, tangy-sweet
  • Chunky raw walnuts: Texture contrast, omega-3 boost

Baking Traits:

  • Not overly sweet (balanced sugar content)
  • Fluffy crumb structure
  • Generous frosting ratio
  • Visible carrot shreds indicate freshness

BLT Sandwich ($10.50)

  • Crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes
  • Mustard and mayo balance
  • Wholegrain bread option available
  • Substantial portion (halved for easier eating)

Recipe: Wholesome Carrot Walnut Cake

Ingredients:

Cake:
- 2 cups wholemeal flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped walnuts

Frosting:
- 200g cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1.5 cups icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven 175°C, grease 9-inch pan
2. Mix dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, spices)
3. Whisk eggs, sugar, oil until smooth
4. Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture
5. Fold in carrots and walnuts
6. Pour into pan, bake 35-40 minutes
7. Cool completely before frosting

Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy
2. Gradually add icing sugar
3. Add vanilla, beat until smooth
4. Spread generously on cooled cake
5. Top with extra walnuts

Baking Notes:
- Don't overmix batter (makes cake dense)
- Test doneness with toothpick (should come out clean)
- Cake improves after 24 hours as flavors meld
- Store refrigerated up to 5 days

7. Kei Kaisendon (Non-Halal)

Location: #B1-119 | Hours: Daily 11am-10pm

Ambience: Casual Japanese eatery with counter and table seating. Simple, functional décor focusing on food quality. Quick service model.

Menu Structure: Donburi (rice bowls) topped with fresh sashimi. Three size options (small, regular, large). Set meal add-ons available.

Signature:

Kei Signature Don (from $14.90++)

Bowl Components:

  • Japanese short-grain rice base
  • Assorted fresh sashimi (salmon, tuna, octopus, etc.)
  • Tamagoyaki (sweet egg)
  • Ikura (salmon roe) – depending on size
  • Garnishes: Nori, wasabi, pickled ginger

Size Options:

  • Small: 6-8 pieces sashimi
  • Regular: 10-12 pieces
  • Large: 15+ pieces with premium cuts

Set Add-ons Analysis:

Set E ($4.90++):

  • Edamame (salted soybeans)
  • Green tea
  • Function: Light, refreshing complement

Set F ($4.90++):

  • Sesame tofu
  • Green tea
  • Trait: Adds protein, creamy texture

Set G ($5.90++):

  • Seafood chawanmushi (steamed egg custard)
  • Green tea
  • Premium option with umami depth

Dish Features:

  • Fresh sashimi quality at affordable price point
  • Customizable portion sizes
  • Quick lunch solution
  • Value-for-money compared to traditional Japanese restaurants

Recipe: Chawanmushi (Japanese Egg Custard)

Ingredients (Serves 4):

- 3 eggs
- 2 cups dashi stock (cooled)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp mirin
- Pinch of salt
- 4 shrimp, cleaned
- 4 mushrooms, sliced
- 4 ginkgo nuts (optional)
- Mitsuba or cilantro for garnish

Preparation:
1. Beat eggs gently (don't create bubbles)
2. Mix dashi, soy sauce, mirin, salt
3. Strain egg mixture through fine sieve
4. Divide shrimp and mushrooms into 4 cups
5. Pour egg mixture over ingredients
6. Cover cups with foil
7. Steam 12-15 minutes on low heat
8. Test: Insert toothpick, liquid should be clear
9. Garnish with herbs

Cooking Secrets:
- Temperature: Low, gentle steam prevents bubbles
- Texture goal: Silky, smooth custard
- Don't overbeat eggs (creates foam)
- Strain mixture for refined texture
- Covered steaming keeps surface smooth

8. SARAI (Non-Halal)

Location: #03-121 | Hours: Daily 11:30am-3pm, 5:30pm-10pm

Ambience: Upscale Thai restaurant with elegant décor. Suitable for business lunches and special occasions. Sophisticated presentation and service.

Menu Scope: Extensive selection spanning appetizers, soups, curries, stir-fries, and desserts. Authentic Thai flavors with premium ingredients.

Featured Dishes:

Tod Mun Pla Gub Lobster ($28++)

Dish Analysis:

  • Main: 4 pieces Maine lobster
  • Coating: Fish paste (surimi-style)
  • Accompaniments: Long beans, red curry paste
  • Cooking method: Deep-fried until golden

Flavor Profile:

  • Sweet lobster meat
  • Savory fish paste coating
  • Spicy-sweet curry dipping sauce
  • Textural contrast: Crispy exterior, tender lobster

Features:

  • Premium appetizer option
  • Thai street food elevated with luxury ingredient
  • Shareable portion

Pad Pak Maeo Moo Grob ($34++)

  • Roasted pork belly (moo grob = crispy pork)
  • Stir-fried chayote sprouts (pak maeo)
  • Garlic, oyster sauce base
  • Essence: Crispy, tender, fresh vegetable crunch

Pad Graprow Gai ($26++)

Thai Basil Chicken Analysis:

Ingredients:

  • Minced chicken
  • Thai holy basil (graprow)
  • Garlic and chilies
  • Sweet peas
  • Fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce

Characteristics:

  • Spice level: Medium-high
  • Aroma: Intensely fragrant from basil
  • Texture: Minced meat with crisp vegetables
  • Authenticity: Traditional Thai preparation

Recipe: Pad Graprow Gai (Thai Basil Chicken)

Ingredients (Serves 2):

- 300g ground chicken
- 2 cups Thai holy basil leaves
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3-5 Thai chilies, chopped
- 1/2 cup sweet peas
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 fried eggs (optional topping)

Cooking Instructions:
1. Heat wok until smoking hot
2. Add oil, swirl to coat
3. Fry garlic and chilies 30 seconds
4. Add chicken, break apart while stirring
5. Cook until no longer pink (3-4 min)
6. Add fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar
7. Add sweet peas, stir-fry 1 minute
8. Turn off heat, add basil leaves
9. Toss briefly until basil wilts
10. Serve over jasmine rice with fried egg

Essential Techniques:
- High heat is crucial (creates "wok hei")
- Cook quickly to maintain texture
- Add basil at end (preserves aroma)
- Don't overcook basil (turns black)

Authenticity Notes:
- Thai holy basil (different from Italian basil)
- Serve with fried egg for traditional style
- Should be aromatic and slightly spicy
- Ground chicken preferred over diced

9. Kebabs Faktory (Halal)

Location: #B1-120 | Hours: Daily 10:30am-9:30pm

Ambience: Fast-casual concept with counter service. Clean, modern quick-service restaurant design. Efficient for takeaway.

Menu Essence: Mediterranean-inspired wraps, bowls, and salads with healthy customization options.

Featured Items:

Chicken Tikka Burrito ($8.90+)

Components Breakdown:

  1. Tortilla wrap
  2. Black beans
  3. Salsa
  4. Cheese
  5. Harissa mayo
  6. Chicken tikka pieces
  7. Lettuce
  8. Rice
  9. Additional vegetables

Total: 9 ingredients per burrito

Traits:

  • Fusion: Indian spices + Mexican format
  • Filling: High protein and fiber
  • Portable: Perfect for on-the-go
  • Value: Substantial meal under $10

Falafel Salad Box ($9.90)

  • Chickpea falafel balls
  • Mixed greens
  • Hummus, tahini dressing
  • Vegetarian/vegan friendly

Chicken Grain Bowl ($9.50)

  • Quinoa or rice base
  • Grilled chicken
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Healthy, balanced macros

Features:

  • Quick service (5-10 min wait)
  • Halal-certified (Muslim-friendly)
  • Customizable spice levels
  • Budget-friendly pricing

10. Pano Kato (Non-Halal)

Location: #02-142 | Hours: Daily 11am-10pm

Ambience: Mediterranean-style dining with warm, inviting décor. Casual yet refined atmosphere. Family-friendly with varied seating options.

Menu Philosophy: Italian classics with focus on pizzas and pastas. Gluten-free options available (+$4++).

Signature Dishes:

Pano Kato Pizza ($30++)

Pizza Analysis:

Base: Tomato sauce, choice of regular or gluten-free (brown rice flour)

Toppings:

  • Fresh spinach
  • Feta cheese
  • Red onions
  • Bell peppers (capsicum)
  • Black olives

Characteristics:

  • Style: Mediterranean vegetarian
  • Crust: Thin, crispy edges with chewy center
  • Flavor balance: Tangy feta + sweet peppers + briny olives
  • Size: 12-inch, serves 2-3

Gluten-Free Option Analysis:

  • Brown rice flour base available
  • Texture: Slightly denser than wheat crust
  • Suitable for celiac or gluten-sensitive diners
  • Additional $4++ upcharge

Classic Bolognese Pasta ($28++)

Sauce Components:

  • Minced Wagyu beef
  • Fresh tomato sauce
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Italian herbs (basil, oregano)

Features:

  • Premium Wagyu for richness
  • Slow-cooked sauce (depth of flavor)
  • Al dente pasta execution
  • Traditional Italian preparation

Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Ingredients:

- 500g ground beef (or Wagyu)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 800g canned tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 cup beef stock
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp basil
- Salt, pepper to taste
- Parmesan for serving

Cooking Method:
1. Heat oil in large pot over medium
2. Sauté onion, carrot, celery 5 min (soffritto)
3. Add garlic, cook 1 min
4. Increase heat, add beef
5. Brown meat thoroughly, breaking apart
6. Add tomato paste, cook 2 min
7. Pour wine, let reduce by half
8. Add canned tomatoes, stock, herbs
9. Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer
10. Cook uncovered 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally
11. Sauce should thicken and darken
12. Season with salt and pepper
13. Serve over pasta with Parmesan

Chef's Secrets:
- Long, slow cooking develops complex flavor
- Soffritto (aromatic base) is crucial
- Wine adds acidity and depth
- Don't rush - 2+ hours minimum
- Better the next day after flavors meld
- Can freeze in portions for easy meals

Delivery Options & Ordering

Available Delivery Platforms:

GrabFood

  • Coverage: Most Tanglin Mall restaurants available
  • Delivery radius: 3-5km typically
  • Fees: $3-5 depending on distance
  • Peak hours: Small surcharge during lunch/dinner rush

Foodpanda

  • Similar coverage to GrabFood
  • Pandapro subscription for free delivery
  • Estimated delivery: 30-45 minutes

Deliveroo

  • Available for select restaurants
  • Deliveroo Plus subscription option

Restaurant-Specific Delivery:

  • Poke Theory: Own delivery via website for orders above $40
  • Cedele Bakery: Direct ordering online with islandwide delivery
  • Little Farms: Own delivery service for groceries and meals

Takeaway Options:

All featured restaurants offer takeaway with phone-ahead ordering to reduce wait times.

Overall Tanglin Mall Dining Traits

Strengths:

  • Diverse cuisine representation (Japanese, Korean, Thai, Mediterranean, Western, Local)
  • Mix of price points ($6 – $38++)
  • Several halal-certified options (3 out of 10)
  • Less crowded than Orchard’s main strip
  • Quality-focused establishments
  • Family-friendly environment

Ideal For:

  • Expat families in the area
  • Business lunches with clients
  • Leisurely weekend brunches
  • Health-conscious diners
  • Those seeking alternatives to crowded food courts

Considerations:

  • Slightly higher price point than typical mall food
  • Some restaurants have limited operating hours
  • Smaller variety compared to larger malls
  • Parking can be limited during peak times

Price Range Summary

Budget ($6-$15):

  • Heavenly Wang
  • Poke Theory
  • Kei Kaisendon (small/regular)
  • Kebabs Faktory

Mid-Range ($15-$25):

  • B For Bagel
  • Cedele Bakery
  • Little Farms Table (some items)
  • Kei Kaisendon (sets)

Premium ($25-$40):

  • Market Blue
  • SARAI
  • Pano Kato
  • Little Farms Table (burgers)

Dietary Accommodations

Halal Options:

  • Poke Theory ✓
  • Heavenly Wang ✓
  • Kebabs Faktory ✓

Vegetarian/Vegan:

  • Poke Theory (Tempeh bowl)
  • Kebabs Faktory (Falafel)
  • Pano Kato (Vegetarian pizza)
  • Little Farms Table (Avocado toast)

Gluten-Free:

  • Pano Kato (Pizza with GF base +$4)
  • Little Farms Table (GF bread option)
  • Poke Theory (Rice-based bowls)

Final Verdict

Tanglin Mall presents a curated dining experience that prioritizes quality over quantity. While not as expansive as ION Orchard or Takashimaya, the mall offers thoughtfully selected eateries that cater to discerning palates and specific dietary needs. The ambience across venues skews toward comfortable, unhurried dining—perfect for the neighborhood’s demographic of families and professionals.

Best For: Quality-focused meals in a relaxed environment Skip If: Seeking budget hawker-style options or extensive variety

Top Recommendations:

  1. Breakfast: Heavenly Wang (authentic, affordable)
  2. Lunch: Poke Theory or Kebabs Faktory (healthy, quick)
  3. Dinner: SARAI or Market Blue (elevated experience)
  4. Brunch: B For Bagel or Little Farms Table (leisurely weekend meal)

Article based on reviews published July 2024. Prices and menu items subject to change. Always verify operating hours and halal certification before visiting.