Modern Nanyang-style coffee shops are rising in popularity these days, but let’s not forget the older ones with history.
YY Kafei Dian, located at 37 Beach Road near Bugis, is one of those old-school gems in Singapore that does not try too hard and does not need to.
It is known for sticking to its Hainanese roots, serving a strong lineup of handmade kaya buns, kopi, and a surprisingly full menu of cooked dishes.
Despite its humble setting, it pulls in a steady crowd every day, from retirees and office workers to curious tourists (especially the weekends).
Their famous kaya buns are baked fresh in-house every morning.
Unlike the typical thin toast found elsewhere, YY’s version features soft, pillowy buns with a beautiful golden top.
They hold a spread of homemade kaya (used to be slightly more generous?) and a slab of cold butter.
The kaya is the rich, eggy kind, slowly cooked with coconut milk and sugar until silky smooth.
The kopi was bold, the eggs were soft and wobbly, and that bun was still warm and rich with coconut. It felt familiar, in the best way.
Note: These buns often sell out early, and once they are gone, that is it for the day.
Actually, some may think YY is just a breakfast place, but there is much more on the menu.
Hainanese-style mains and zi char favourites include Hainanese Pork Chop ($14), Curry Fish Head ($28), Sliced Fish in Sweet n Sour Sauce ($20), Deep-fried Prawns with Fragrant Cereal ($20).
If you are after noodles, there are Beef Hor Fun ($6.50), Seafood E-fu Noodles in Claypot ($6.50), and a comforting Hor Fun with Bean Sprout and Sliced Fish ($6).
YY Kafei Dian’s Hainanese chicken rice may not be the most exceptional, but it is a no-frills and satisfying plate.
The poached chicken was tender and succulent, with a silky layer of gelatin beneath the skin that added a pleasant mouthfeel.
The rice was fluffy, fragrant, and good enough to eat on its own. Not the best, but pretty decent.
While some dishes could benefit from refinement, it is still old-fashioned comfort on a plate.
And sometimes, that is exactly what you need.
YY Kafei Dian
37 Beach Road, #01-01, Singapore 189678
Opening Hours: 7:30am – 7pm (Mon – Fri), 8am – 7pm (Sat – Sun)
Other Related Entries
Treasure Toast (Purvis Street)
Today Kampung Chicken Rice Restaurant (Tiong Bahru)
Yu Cun Curry Fish Head (Sultan Gate)
Xin Yue Lai Bak Kut Teh 新悅来肉骨茶 (Horne Road)
Wild Coco (Boat Quay)
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Thankyou for covering YY Kafei Dian. But I am wondering why you have not covered Mamma Mia Trattoria E Caffè Singapore, as they are available in 7 locations across Singapore. Checkout Mamma Mia Menu and let me know if I can further assist
I found the food at Mamma Mia Trattoria E Caffè pretty average to be honest (tried different outlets). Perhaps next time if there is an opportunity. 🙂
Mamma Mia is a mediocre halal eatery. It’s a little pricey for the kind of food they are serving. Not really authentic Italian food due to certain restriction.