There are so many Nanyang-style modern cafes in Singapore that marry the allure of nostalgia with contemporary trends.
Many of these establishments draw heavily on the rich tradition of kopitiams, with some using nostalgia as a powerful marketing tool.
They include The Hainan Story, Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe and of course Toast Box Coffee House.
I found one there is slightly off the radar – Kopi 1930, located at the historically rich Sophia Flats on Wilkie Road.
Compared to others which use more nostalgic décor, café ambiance is kept simple and unpretentious, which I didn’t mind.
The menu at Kopi 1930 offers a range of traditional and local delights, with prices starting from $9.80 for the mains.
All day mains include Mee Siam, Mee Rebus, Laksa, Chicken Thigh Berempah, Chicken Curry Rice, Sambal Prawn Petai Rice, Braised Pork Belly Rice, to Hainan Chicken Cutlet Rice.
I had the Mee Siam ($9.80) garnished with prawns, hard-boiled egg, tau pok, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of chopped spring onions.
The vermicelli is well-cooked, soaking up the sweet and sour tamarind-based broth, which is enriched with a blend of spices.
Overall, it’s a safe choice, though I personally would have wished it was more piping hot.
The Homemade Kaya Butter Toast (from $2.60) offers a choice between traditional Hainan bread, known for its soft, fluffy texture, or wholemeal bread for a healthier option.
Or order the ‘Giant Bun’ ($4) which is the UFO Bun with peanut butter, butter and homemade kaya.
The toast is spread with homemade kaya, which could be slightly more generous, giving it a mild fragrant aroma.
This is complemented by slices of cold butter, adding a creamy richness. If the toast could be crispier, it would have been much better.
The beverage selection includes local staples like Kopi and Teh, as well as homemade concoctions and specialty drinks.
The Iced Hor Ka Sai, a blend of local coffee and Milo, should appeal to those who enjoy a sweeter drink.
The service at Kopi 1930 is efficient. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a meal, the café offers a laid-back, contemporary setting to have local bites.
Kopi 1930
28 Wilkie Road, #01-01, Singapore 228051
Opening Hours: 8am – 4:30pm (Mon, Wed – Sun), Closed Tues
Other Related Entries
The Hainan Story Chapter 2 (Jewel Changi Airport)
Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe (Craig Road)
Toast Box Coffee House (Tiong Bahru)
Bao Er Café (Balestier Plaza)
Wild Coco (Hamilton Road)
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