Korean cafes are continuing to gain popularity in Singapore’s food scene, offering everything from fusion brunches to traditional Korean dishes in more casual settings.
I recently ventured to Iris Cafe, a Korean eatery located in the heart of Fusionopolis.
Solaris, to be exact.
It is not exactly a location I would have expected to visit for a café, and to be honest, it took me a bit of effort to get there.
However, once inside, I found the cafe to be spacious and inviting.
The interior is spacious with a rustic yet modern touch. Wooden tables, comfortable chairs, and some greenery hanging from the walls gave the space a homely and relaxing atmosphere.
If you do not need to rush to your next meeting, this can be the kind of spot where you could imagine sitting for hours, whether for work or a casual chat with colleagues.
Food-wise, starters include Fried Dried Pollack Fish ($14.90), spicy Fried Chicken & Fries ($17), and Boneless Fried Chicken with Garlic Soy Sauce ($15.90).
Pasta dishes feature the luxurious Truffle Mushroom Cream Pasta ($21.90), a classic Arrabiata Pasta ($21), and Spinach Ravioli with Korean Dried Vegetables ($16).
Burger and sandwich offerings include the Beef Burger ($17.90), Pulled Pork Burger ($15.90), Spicy Chicken Sandwich ($15.90), Thin Pork Belly Sandwich ($15.90), Bulgogi Sandwich ($15.90), and Avocado Salmon Bagel Sandwich ($16.90).
As I was there for brunch, I opted for their Iris Breakfast with Kimchi Pancake ($20).
This dish came with smoked bacon, an egg prepared to your liking, a kimchi pancake, a garden salad, and a serving of cream cheese on the side.
The kimchi pancake was the best part for me. It had a balanced tangy and mildly spicy kick from the fermented kimchi, which paired well with the crispy edges of the pancake.
The smoked bacon added a savoury punch, though it wasn’t overly salty, which was a plus. The cream cheese, however, felt like an odd addition—it didn’t quite enhance the dish, so I mostly left it on the side.
If you prefer something Korean, mains include Bibimbap ($15.90), Jjajangmyeon ($15.90), Spicy Webfoot Octopus Rice with Cheese ($15.90), Kimchi Stew with Rice Ball ($16.90), Soft Tofu Stew with Rice Ball ($16.90), and Chicken Soup and Rice ($25).
I noticed they also make cakes in-house.
The display looked appealing at first glance, but on closer inspection, the cakes seemed a bit sloppily sliced, which deterred me from giving them a try.
Presentation is important, and this felt like a miss on their part.
Iris Cafe is a decent option if you are already working or passing through Fusionopolis. The food is solid, the atmosphere is comfortable, but it might not be a place worth going out of your way for.
If you are nearby, though, it can be a pleasant spot to enjoy a casual Korean-style meal.
Iris Cafe
Solaris #01-11, 1 Fusionopolis Walk, Singapore 138628
Opening Hours: 10am – 8pm (Mon – Fri), 8:30am – 6pm (Sat), Closed Sun
Other Related Entries
Namu Bulgogi (Tampines 1)
Oni Kimbap (Bukit Merah Central)
ilmiri Korean Fusion Cuisine (Circular Road)
Seoul Bunsik 서울분식 (Far East Plaza)
Daily Chicken (Bugis Junction)
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