The Korean cafe fever continues in Singapore, this time with GUI Cafe at South Bridge Road.
It can be found nestled near Chinatown, opposite Maxwell Food Centre.
However, this is not a new name though, as you may remember Café Gui at Novena – which embraces a minimalist and homely white décor. (Seems like many new cafes in Singapore are moving away from white.)
While the interior does look quite ‘Hanok’-style complete with dark wooden structures, part of the reason is that it retained some of the old look of the previous eatery (a Hor Fun shop called Lee Tong Kee).
“GUI”? Does it mean “precious” or “expensive”?
The cafe’s name, “GUI,” is a heartfelt tribute to the owner’s beloved cat, Guigui, who passed away in 2022.
This personal touch is evident in the cafe’s decor, adorned with cat memorabilia and decorations, creating a space that feels both charming and sentimental.
The menu at Cafe Gui presents an interesting mix of Korean and Japanese dishes, such as Arabiki Sausage Rice Bowl ($14.90), Salmon Rice Box ($21.90), Dosirak Rice Box ($15.90), Korean Ramen ($9.90), Spicy Dry Ramen with Pork Belly ($15.90), to Bibim Guksu ($15.90).
During my visit, I opted for the Gui’s Premium Rice Box ($18.90). This dish is a nod to the Korean Dosirak – a traditional packed meal typically consisting of rice, meat, and assorted sides in a compact container.
In GUI’s interpretation, the rice box includes an array of flavours: salted squid, stir-fried Korean fishcake, Korean luncheon meat, kimchi, seaweed, a sunny-side-up egg, and yellow pickled radish.
Served in a golden-tinted lunch box that reminds one of scenes from Korean high school dramas, give it a good shake before eating.
However, the dish had its drawbacks. The rice, an essential component of any Dosirak, was somewhat clumpy, detracting from the overall experience.
Moreover, considering its proximity to Tanjong Pagar known for authentic Korean cuisine, the cafe may face stiff competition from authentic Korean restaurants a stones’ throw away.
The dessert menu at GUI Cafe introduces new delights like the Yuzu Lemon Tart ($9.90) and Lime Cheesecake ($9.50).
These desserts are garnished beautifully with edible flowers.
However, the tart’s presentation, served on a plate with a hollow (almost like a bowl) rather than a flat surface, posed a practical challenge, making it somewhat difficult to enjoy.
GUI Cafe, with its unique decor and heartfelt backstory, offers a distinctive dining experience.
While some aspects of the menu might need refinement, the cafe’s ambiance make it a noteworthy addition to the vibrant café landscape at Maxwell.
GUI Cafe South Bridge
278 South Bridge Road #01-01, Singapore 058827
Opening Hours: 11am – 9:30pm (Mon, Wed – Sat), 11am – 6pm (Sun), Closed Tue
GUI Cafe Teck Chye
MBER #01-04, 2 Teck Chye Terrace, Singapore 546620
Opening Hours: 11am – 9:30pm (Tue – Fri), 9am – 10pm (Sat – Sun), Closed Mon
Other Related Entries
Fernweh (South Bridge Road)
Rise Bakehouse Heritage (South Bridge Road)
Coffeehouse by Kobashi (South Bridge Road)
Visitors Café (Tanjong Pagar)
Muro Coffee (South Bridge Road)
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