The Complete Food Guide in Novena – Singapore
I’ve eaten at literally every eatery in Novena at least twice (my credit card statements are basically a food tour map). Some were amazing, many were forgettable, and a few were so bad I still get flashbacks. This guide covers ONLY the places I personally go back to regularly – the ones worth your calories and cash.
This neighborhood has become my second dining room over the years. I’ve dragged friends along, celebrated birthdays, nursed hangovers, and had first dates across these spots. Nobody’s paying me to write this, I just can’t shut up about good food.
Fair warning: I have strong opinions. If your favorite spot didn’t make my list, I probably tried it and didn’t think it was worth the hype (or the price tag). Fight me in the comments if you must.
Quick Navigation: Novena’s Must-Try Food Options
| Cuisine | Restaurant | Rating | Price | What to Order |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chinese | TungLok Peking Duck | 4.8/5 | $$$$ | Signature Peking Duck with blueberry sauce |
| Chinese | Mun Zuk 满粥 | 4.2/5 | $$ | Century egg pork congee with you tiao |
| Chinese/HK | Xin Wang Hong Kong Café | 4.0/5 | $$ | Hong Kong-style French toast with milk tea |
| Japanese | Omoté | 4.4/5 | $$$ | Umami Soy Chirashi Don ($19.80) |
| Western | Josh’s Grill | 4.6/5 | $$$ | Flame-grilled chicken with their secret garlic sauce |
| Western | The Soup Spoon | 4.0/5 | $$ | Velvety Mushroom Soup with garlic bread |
| Thai | A-Roy Thai | 4.1/5 | $$ | Tom yum soup (specify your spice level!) |
| Korean | Hana K-Food | 4.1/5 | $$ | Army stew (perfect for 2-3 people) |
| Health-conscious | Poke Theory | 4.4/5 | $$ | Custom bowl with wasabi shoyu sauce |
| Health-conscious | SaladStop! | 4.0/5 | $$ | Build-your-own bowl with avocado lime dressing |
| Quick bites | Old Chang Kee | 3.6/5 | $ | Curry puff (best in the morning) |
| Fast food | KFC | 3.5/5 | $ | Original Recipe chicken (early morning portions) |
| Coffee/Workspace | Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf | 4.0/5 | $$ | Ice Blended Vanilla with extra espresso shot |
| Coffee/Workspace | Starbucks | 3.8/5 | $$ | Window seat with any caffeine source |
| Evening Drinks | Harry’s | 4.2/5 | $$$ | Truffle fries and happy hour beers |
| Chinese Desserts | Mei Heong Yuen Dessert | 4.3/5 | $$ | Mango pomelo sago (durian pancake in season) |
| Food Court | Kopitiam (Square 2 Basement) | 3.8/5 | $ | Wanton noodles from Traditional Noodle stall |
| Bakery | Four Leaves | 3.9/5 | $ | Chocolate Chip Danish (early morning freshness) |
| Local Breakfast | Ya Kun Kaya Toast | 4.0/5 | $ | Kaya toast set with runny eggs |
Let’s start with my absolute top picks in Novena’s Chinese food scene. If you only eat at three places in this entire guide, make sure these are on your list.
Chinese Food Worth Getting Fat For
TungLok Peking Duck: The $98 Duck I Still Dream About
[IMAGE: Close-up of TungLok’s Peking Duck with crispy skin, accompanied by pancakes and their signature blueberry sauce]
I didn’t even like Peking duck before I ate here. Seriously. I always thought it was overhyped and too greasy – then a client insisted on bringing me here and completely wrecked my expectations. The skin literally shatters like glass, and somehow they keep the meat juicy instead of the dry cardboard you get everywhere else.
The first time they presented their blueberry sauce, I nearly rolled my eyes (another fancy place trying too hard). But damn if that weird-ass combination doesn’t work perfectly. The slight tartness cuts through the richness in a way that traditional sauces don’t. It’s so good I asked if they sell bottles (they don’t, I tried).
Location: #02-11/12, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 11:30am-3pm, 6-10pm
Price: $98 for the duck (serves 3-4)
Phone: +65 6992 2777
MONEY HACK: Their lunch set costs around 40% less than dinner but the duck is literally the same quality. Also, most people don’t know to ask for the “popping rocks” condiment – it adds this crazy texture that enhances everything. The staff won’t offer it unless you ask.
Dragged my parents here last month for their anniversary. Dad’s the typical Asian parent who calls everything “not bad” at most. Caught him texting his friends about this duck for the next two weeks. That’s practically a standing ovation in Asian dad language.
Now, if TungLok is my special occasion splurge spot, then Mun Zuk is its complete opposite – the affordable comfort food I return to again and again:
Mun Zuk 满粥: The Only Thing That Fixes My Hangovers
[IMAGE: Bowl of silky congee with century egg and pork, alongside crispy you tiao for dipping]
My go-to hangover cure, comfort food, rainy day lunch, and “I’m too lazy to decide what to eat” default option. Their century egg and pork congee has saved me from death-by-hangover at least 17 times. No exaggeration.
The consistency hits that perfect sweet spot – not watery like some places, not glue-thick like others. Each spoonful has just enough rice grains with integrity rather than the baby-food texture most places serve. And the century egg adds that funky umami punch that makes even bland porridge interesting.
Location: #01-86/87, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 9am-8pm
Price: $6-8 per bowl
Phone: +65 6261 3490
CRITICAL INFO: Don’t even think about ordering congee without you tiao. Third visit here, I tried skipping it because I was “watching carbs” (lol), and the auntie at the counter literally refused my order. She just shook her head and said “Not right!” until I caved. She knows what’s up – the contrast between silky congee and crispy fried dough is the whole point.
Pretty sure I saw that actor from Mediacorp here three times in a week once. Won’t say who, but if you hang around enough you’ll spot him too. Either he really loves the congee or he was stalking me. Probably the congee.
While Mun Zuk is my go-to for lunch comfort, there’s one place that owns my weekend mornings entirely:
Xin Wang Hong Kong Café: Where Calories Don’t Count Before 9am
[IMAGE: Hong Kong-style French toast with condensed milk and a cup of milk tea]
My weekend morning ritual, without fail. Even when I was dating that guy who lived on the other side of Singapore, I’d make him come to Novena just for this french toast. The relationship didn’t last, but my love for this french toast has outlived several boyfriends.
Their Hong Kong-style french toast is basically decadent dessert masquerading as breakfast – crispy exterior, custardy inside, with a river of condensed milk that probably takes a few months off your life expectancy with each bite. Worth it though.
Location: #01-09, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 7am-10pm
Price: $8-15 per person
Phone: +65 6250 0608
CROWD AVOIDANCE STRATEGY: Get here before 8:30am on weekends unless you enjoy standing in line with hungry, grumpy people. Also, eat the french toast immediately – it gets soggy within minutes, and the magic is in that textural contrast.
I’ve been here so often that it’s honestly embarrassing. The staff doesn’t even give me a menu anymore, just asks “Same order?” while staring at me with knowing judgment. I nod shamefully while craving that french toast. My dignity is a small price to pay.
Not in the mood for Chinese food? There’s another breakfast option that delivers Singapore’s quintessential morning meal:
Ya Kun Kaya Toast: The Breakfast That Fuels Singapore
[IMAGE: Ya Kun Kaya Toast set with runny eggs and coffee]
For a more traditional Singaporean breakfast, Ya Kun is my spot. Their kaya toast sets are a national institution for good reason – crispy thin toast slathered with coconut jam and cold butter, paired with obscenely runny eggs (that somehow never break until you want them to) and strong kopi.
It’s simple food executed perfectly. The toast is never burnt, the kaya is never too sweet, and the eggs are always that perfect consistency where they’re barely holding together. Pure comfort food that costs less than a fancy coffee elsewhere.
Location: #B1-05, Square 2, 10 Sinaran Drive, 307506
Hours: Daily 7:30am-9pm
Price: $4-7 per set
Phone: +65 6238 7153
EGG HACK: Ask for extra-soft eggs and dash some white pepper and dark soy sauce over them. Mix it all up, then dip your toast in. The combination of sweet kaya, savory egg, and the pepper kick is the Singaporean breakfast trifecta.
Mornings where I have important meetings, I’ll skip the fancier options and come here. There’s something almost meditative about the ritual of dipping toast into that egg mixture while watching the morning commuters rush by.
Need something sweet to grab on your way to work? Novena also has a solid bakery option:
Four Leaves: Fresh-Baked Morning Happiness
[IMAGE: Four Leaves display case with various pastries, focusing on the Chocolate Chip Danish]
While not as flashy as artisanal bakeries, Four Leaves delivers consistently satisfying pastries at prices that don’t make you question your life choices. Their Chocolate Chip Danish is my personal addiction – flaky layers wrapped around chocolate chips that stay slightly melty even after cooling.
The key is timing. Get there before 9am and everything is still warm from the oven. After lunch, the pastries are noticeably less fresh (though still better than most chain bakeries).
Location: #B1-153, Square 2, 10 Sinaran Drive, 307506
Hours: Daily 7:30am-9:30pm
Price: $1.80-3.50 per item
Phone: +65 6255 3798
HIDDEN GEM: Most people go for the obvious favorites, but their Coconut Cream Bun is criminally underrated. The filling is just sweet enough without being cloying, and the bread has that perfect slightly-chewy texture.
Speaking of food worth sacrificing your dignity for, let’s move on to the Japanese section. Novena has some surprisingly legit options that rival much more expensive places:
Japanese That Makes Me Forget About Booking Flights to Tokyo
Omoté: The Chirashi I’d Sell A Kidney For
[IMAGE: Overhead shot of Omoté’s signature Umami Soy Chirashi Don with colorful fresh sashimi arranged over seasoned rice]
There are days when I’m staring at my laptop at work, supposedly focused on a deadline, but actually just thinking about when I can next eat Omoté’s Umami Soy Chirashi Don. I’ve literally left meetings early using fake emergencies as excuses just to beat the lunch crowd here. No regrets.
What makes it crack-level addictive? The rice alone is worth the trip – perfectly room temperature (not cold like most places), each grain distinct but flavored through with that savory-sweet marinade. Then they top it with slices of fish that are clearly several cuts above what other places at this price point are serving. It’s genuinely unfair how good this $19.80 bowl is compared to $50 options elsewhere.
Location: #03-09/10, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 11:30am-10pm
Price: $19.80 for their signature chirashi
Phone: +65 9469 8066
TIMING IS EVERYTHING: The lunch crowd here is BRUTAL. Either come at 11:15am (15 mins before opening) to queue, or come at 2pm when the rush has died. Also, they’re stingy with wasabi – always ask for extra unless you hate flavor.
My friend who just got back from a two-week eating spree across Japan couldn’t stop comparing this place favorably to spots she tried in Tokyo. When someone who’s eaten at Tsukiji gives your neighborhood spot the nod, you know it’s legit.
Japanese food satisfies my seafood cravings, but when I need something heartier with bold flavors, I head straight to these Western spots:
Western Food That Isn’t Boring For Once
Josh’s Grill: That Garlic Sauce Should Be Illegal
[IMAGE: Josh’s Grill’s perfectly flame-grilled chicken with their famous garlic sauce]
Not to be dramatic, but I’d fight someone in a parking lot for the recipe to Josh’s garlic sauce. It looks unassuming – just a creamy white sauce in a ramekin – but it’s actually life-changing. I’ve tried bribing the staff (failed), sweet-talking the chef (also failed), and even considered getting a job there just to steal the recipe (still considering it).
The sauce has this perfect balance of creamy, garlicky, and something else I can’t place… maybe crack? It elevates their already solid flame-grilled chicken to something I think about at 3am sometimes. The chicken itself has that ideal char on the outside while staying impossibly juicy inside.
Location: #02-68/69/70/71/72, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 11:30am-10pm
Price: $18-40 per person
Phone: +65 6250 6989
CHEAP HACK: Their weekday lunch deals knock about 25% off dinner prices for the same food. And they don’t advertise it, but if you’re nice (and maybe flirt a little with the right server), they’ll give you extra sauce for free. I’ve walked out with three ramekins before. Not proud of my methods, but no regrets.
I’ve literally spent hours in my kitchen trying to reverse-engineer their sauce. Five failed attempts later, I’ve accepted that some things in life are beyond my capabilities. My last attempt was so bad my roommate asked if something died in the blender.
If Josh’s Grill is for when I want a hearty, satisfying meal, The Soup Spoon is my go-to when I need something lighter but still comforting:
The Soup Spoon: For When You Need Comfort Without The Food Coma
[IMAGE: Bowl of Velvety Mushroom Soup from The Soup Spoon with a side of garlic bread]
This is my standard “I have an important meeting in an hour but also need actual food” lunch spot. Their soups are substantial enough to keep you full without putting you into that post-lunch coma that makes afternoon meetings unbearable.
The Velvety Mushroom is my usual – thick without being pasty, with actual mushroom chunks instead of just being brown-colored goop. Paired with their garlic bread (which is basically a vehicle for butter, let’s be honest), it’s the perfect lunch when you need functioning brain cells afterward.
Location: #01-62/63, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 10:30am-10pm
Price: $8-15 per person
Phone: +65 6255 6128
UNEXPECTED STANDOUT: Everyone gets the classic soups, but their SG Red Curry Chicken is actually their best flavor and nobody orders it. It’s got that perfect spice level that makes you notice it without overwhelming the other flavors. Most people are boring and stick to mushroom or pumpkin, missing out on this hidden gem.
That one week when Singapore actually experienced “cold” weather (like 23°C lol), the queue here was insane. I’ve learned to use their app to order ahead and skip waiting in line with all the other office workers desperate for hot soup.
Speaking of spice levels – if you think the Red Curry Chicken at Soup Spoon has a kick, wait until you try what’s next. Novena has one Thai place that doesn’t pull its punches:
Thai Food That Actually Has Spice
A-Roy Thai: Southeast Asian Heat Without The Plane Ticket
[IMAGE: Bowl of vibrant Tom Yum soup with prawns and herbs, steam rising from the spicy broth]
When I tell the staff “Thai spicy, not Singapore spicy,” they actually listen. The first time I ordered their tom yum “Thai spicy,” I nearly cried—both from the heat and from joy that someone finally took my spice tolerance seriously. Their tom yum hits with that perfect sour-spicy balance that clears your sinuses and makes your forehead sweat.
What sets A-Roy apart is that they don’t dumb down their flavors for local palates. The sourness in their dishes comes from actual tamarind and lime, not just vinegar like some places. And they’re not stingy with the herbs—each dish has that aromatic complexity that makes Thai food so addictive.
Location: #B1-11, Square 2, 10 Sinaran Drive, 307506
Hours: Daily 11am-10pm
Price: $12-25 per person
Phone: +65 6252 0853
DON’T MISS: Their green curry with beef is criminally overlooked. Most people default to tom yum or pad thai, but this curry has that perfect silkiness that can only come from properly cracking coconut cream. The balance of sweet, spicy and the fragrance from the Thai basil is worth every calorie.
I dragged my Thai colleague here expecting her to scoff (she’s notoriously picky about Thai food in Singapore). Instead, she nodded approvingly and said it reminded her of her mom’s cooking. If that’s not an endorsement, I don’t know what is.
Korean Food That Isn’t Overpriced For Once
Hana K-Food: Affordable K-Drama Food Fantasies
[IMAGE: Steaming pot of Army Stew with ramyeon, spam, sausages and vegetables bubbling in a spicy red broth]
Let’s be honest—most Korean restaurants in Singapore charge you K-drama prices for mediocre food. Hana K-Food is the rare exception that delivers authentic flavors without making your wallet sob. Their army stew is my winter comfort food (by “winter” I mean when the temperature dips below 28°C and I pretend it’s cold).
What makes their budae jjigae special is the broth—it’s got depth that can only come from simmering for hours, not from dumping in flavoring powders. They don’t skimp on ingredients either; the pot comes loaded with proper Korean spam, sausages, tofu, and enough ramyeon to satisfy your carb cravings.
Location: #01-36, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 11am-9:30pm
Price: $14-28 per person
Phone: +65 6256 6863
SHARING HACK: Their army stew portion is massive and easily feeds 3-4 people. If dining as a pair, get the army stew to share plus one bibimbap to round out the meal—perfect balance and you’ll still have leftovers. Also, ask for cheese on top of your army stew; it’s not on the menu but they’ll do it if you ask nicely.
I once came here while nursing the worst hangover of my life. The combination of spicy broth, processed meat, and carbs literally brought me back from the dead. Now it’s my go-to recovery meal after any night out that involves more than two drinks.
Health-conscious Options That Don’t Taste Like Punishment
Poke Theory: Protein That Won’t Wreck Your Diet Goals
[IMAGE: Vibrant poke bowl with fresh salmon, avocado, edamame, and other colorful toppings over rice]
As someone who cycles between “I should eat better” and “pass me that fried chicken” on a daily basis, Poke Theory helps me pretend I’m being healthy. Their bowls manage to be both satisfying and Instagram-worthy—a rare combination in the healthy food space where most options taste like wet cardboard.
The thing that elevates their poke is the quality of the fish. It’s consistently fresh, cut in generous cubes (not tiny pathetic slivers), and they don’t marinate it to death like some places do. Their wasabi shoyu sauce has the perfect hint of heat that doesn’t overwhelm the delicate fish flavors.
Location: #02-35/36, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 11am-9pm
Price: $13-20 per bowl
Phone: +65 9107 3584
VALUE HACK: Skip their signature bowls and build your own instead. Their signature options often skimp on the expensive proteins, but when you build your own, you can load up on what matters. Also, half-and-half bases (like half sushi rice, half greens) don’t cost extra but give you the best of both worlds.
This is my standard pre-gym meal when I’m trying to be “good.” The protein keeps me full through a workout, and I don’t feel weighed down like after eating a plate of char kway teow (though let’s be honest, the char kway teow is more tempting most days).
SaladStop!: Where Vegetables Actually Taste Good
[IMAGE: Fresh, colorful custom salad bowl with various vegetables, protein and the avocado lime dressing]
I was skeptical about paying $15+ for “just a salad” until I tried SaladStop. Their build-your-own option lets you pile on enough protein and toppings to create something that’s actually satisfying, not just sad rabbit food. Their avocado lime dressing is liquid gold—tangy, creamy, and somehow makes even the most boring vegetables taste incredible.
What I appreciate is that they don’t treat vegetables as punishment food. The ingredients are fresh, properly seasoned, and prepared in ways that bring out their flavors. Their roasted vegetables actually taste roasted, not just limp and soggy like at most salad places.
Location: #B1-25, Square 2, 10 Sinaran Drive, 307506
Hours: Daily 10am-9:30pm
Price: $12-18 per bowl
Phone: +65 6438 6580
INSIDER TIP: Ask for your dressing on the side—their staff tends to drown salads in dressing otherwise. Also, paying extra for avocado is absolutely worth it here; their avocados are consistently ripe (a miracle in Singapore) and they give generous portions.
This is my go-to “detox” meal after a weekend of excessive eating. Does it actually detox anything? Probably not. But it makes me feel virtuous enough to justify the bubble tea I’ll inevitably buy afterwards.
Quick Bites For When You’re Rushing
Old Chang Kee: The Grab-and-Go Classic
[IMAGE: Golden-brown curry puffs and assorted fried snacks displayed in the Old Chang Kee warming cabinet]
There’s something uniquely Singaporean about speed-walking to an appointment while burning your mouth on an Old Chang Kee curry puff. Their Novena outlet is my emergency food station when I’m running between meetings or too lazy to commit to a proper meal.
Are OCK curry puffs gourmet cuisine? No. Are they consistently satisfying with their perfectly flaky pastry and spiced potato filling? Absolutely. There’s a reason they’ve survived decades while trendier spots come and go—they deliver reliable comfort food that hits the spot every time.
Location: #B1-27, Square 2, 10 Sinaran Drive, 307506
Hours: Daily 7:30am-10pm
Price: $1.80-3.50 per item
Phone: +65 6251 8113
TIMING IS EVERYTHING: Visit before 9am to get the freshest batches. The curry puffs that come out early in the morning have that perfect crisp exterior that gradually softens throughout the day. By evening, they’re still tasty but have lost that textural magic.
The staff at this branch seems to recognize me now, which is equally convenient and embarrassing. Last month when I grabbed my usual curry puff, the auntie smiled and said, “No sardine today?” She knows my rotation! I felt both seen and called out.
Fast Food That Doesn’t Disappoint
KFC: The Secret Morning Chicken Advantage
[IMAGE: Freshly prepared KFC Original Recipe chicken pieces with the characteristic golden-brown coating]
I’m not here to pretend KFC is gourmet food, but the Novena branch has a secret advantage: if you come right after they open in the morning, their chicken is VASTLY superior to any other time of day. Fresh oil, freshly breaded chicken, and kitchen staff who aren’t exhausted yet makes for the crispiest, juiciest fast food experience possible.
The difference between morning KFC and evening KFC is like two completely different restaurants. Morning brings you chicken with audibly crunchy skin and juicy meat; evening often means soggy coating and dried-out chicken that’s been under the heat lamp too long.
Location: #01-01, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 8am-10pm
Price: $8-15 per person
Phone: +65 6255 5115
ORDERING STRATEGY: Always specify that you want fresh chicken, even if it means waiting an extra few minutes. Also, the Original Recipe consistently outperforms Hot & Crispy at this location—somehow their H&C always ends up drier.
Is it embarrassing that I’ve developed such specific opinions about fast food chicken? Maybe. But there’s a reason I’ve made morning KFC runs before important meetings—it’s consistently satisfying in a way that most grab-and-go options aren’t. Just don’t tell my doctor about this habit.
Coffee & Workspace Spots When Offices Are Too Boring
Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: The Productive Corner
[IMAGE: Coffee Bean interior showing comfortable seating area with power outlets and people working on laptops]
When my home office feels too isolated and actual office feels too much like, well, an office, Coffee Bean becomes my third space. The Novena branch has those perfect corner tables with power outlets that I’ll shamelessly camp at for hours with just an Ice Blended Vanilla (with an extra shot for actual caffeine content).
What makes this location superior to other coffee chains is the staff’s remarkable tolerance for laptop squatters. Unlike certain other places (*cough* Starbucks *cough*) that blast music at headache-inducing volumes, the ambient noise here stays at a reasonable level. The WiFi is also surprisingly reliable even during peak hours.
Location: #01-33, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 7:30am-10:30pm
Price: $6-8 per drink
Phone: +65 6255 0989
POWER USER MOVE: Their loyalty program is actually worth joining—the points accumulate faster than Starbucks and you get a free drink after just 10 purchases. Also, their refill policy (half-price refills of brewed coffee) is SG’s best-kept coffee secret if you’re planning a long work session.
I’ve legitimately finished entire work projects here, fueled by nothing but Ice Blended drinks and their surprisingly decent ham and cheese croissants. Something about the environment just triggers my productivity in ways my actual office never manages to.
Starbucks: For When You Need That Specific Window Seat
[IMAGE: Starbucks window seating area with comfortable chairs and a view of the Novena neighborhood outside]
I’m not going to pretend Starbucks has the best coffee in the area (it doesn’t), but what it does have is That One Perfect Window Seat. You know the one—slightly isolated from the main seating area, with just the right balance of people-watching opportunity and privacy. I’ve fought silent passive-aggressive battles with other regulars for this spot.
The Novena Starbucks follows the standard formula, but its location at the entrance to the mall gives it better airflow and natural light than most Singapore branches that feel like caffeinated caves. The WiFi is reliable, and unlike some locations, the air conditioning doesn’t feel like it’s trying to preserve your body for future generations.
Location: #01-73, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 7am-10:30pm
Price: $6-9 per drink
Phone: +65 6253 6481
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE: The crowds here follow a predictable pattern—dead empty before 9am on weekdays, packed with students in the afternoon, and filled with young professionals having informal meetings around 6-8pm. Plan accordingly if you need space to work. Also, the bathroom code changes weekly, not daily like they claim—same code works for at least 5-7 days.
I once had an accidental three-hour conversation with a stranger who sat at my table during a crowded period. Turned out she was a literary agent, and I ended up pitching her my book idea about Singapore’s food scene. Nothing came of it, but that’s the kind of random encounter that makes cafe-working worth it sometimes.
Evening Drinks When You Need To Unwind
Harry’s: Where After-Work Drinks Actually Feel Relaxing
[IMAGE: Harry’s bar interior with after-work crowd, pints of beer, and a plate of truffle fries on a table]
When the workday has thoroughly destroyed my will to live, Harry’s is my salvation. Their happy hour (5-8pm) beer deals make the corporate existential dread slightly more bearable, and something about their ambient lighting makes everyone look 30% more attractive—a scientific fact I’ve personally verified after extensive research.
What elevates Harry’s above other bars is their food menu that’s actually worth ordering from. Their truffle fries are consistently excellent—crispy, adequately truffled without being overwhelming, and portioned generously enough to absorb several pints of beer. The Buffalo wings are another standout that puts most “sports bar” offerings to shame.
Location: #01-19, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Sun-Thu 11:30am-12am, Fri-Sat 11:30am-1am
Price: $12-18 per drink, $15-25 per food item
Phone: +65 6255 2966
INSIDER ADVANTAGE: Members get an extra hour of happy hour pricing (until 9pm), and signing up takes literally 2 minutes on their app. Also, their “Brew of the Month” is usually heavily discounted and worth trying even if it’s not your usual preference.
I’ve had some of my most honest conversations and ridiculous laughs at this exact Harry’s location. There’s something about the environment that encourages both venting about work frustrations and dreaming up absurd business ideas that seem completely viable after the third pint. This is where work friends become real friends.
Sweet Endings: Desserts Worth Saving Room For
Mei Heong Yuen Dessert: Chinese Desserts That Soothe The Soul
[IMAGE: Mango pomelo sago dessert in a glass bowl]
After a spicy meal or on a sweltering day (so basically any day in Singapore), Mei Heong Yuen’s traditional Chinese desserts hit the spot like nothing else. Their mango pomelo sago is my go-to – refreshing, not too sweet, with chunks of fresh mango and chewy sago pearls that add the perfect texture.
Unlike many dessert places that over-sweeten everything, they nail the balance here. You can actually taste the fruit rather than just sugar, and everything feels light enough that you don’t hate yourself afterward.
Location: #02-03, Velocity@Novena Square, 238 Thomson Rd, 307683
Hours: Daily 11:15am-10pm
Price: $4-12 per dessert
Phone: +65 6252 7335
SEASONAL OBSESSION: During durian season, their durian pancake becomes my twice-weekly indulgence. It’s pricey but absolutely worth every cent if you’re a durian fan. The pancake skin is paper-thin but never tears, and they’re generous with the D24 durian filling. I’ve converted several durian-haters with this dessert.
Food Court Finds: Hidden Gems in the Basement
Kopitiam Food Court: Where Local Flavors Shine
[IMAGE: Overview of the Kopitiam food court with various stalls and seating area]
Don’t let the food court setting fool you – some of Novena’s best eats are hiding in the basement of Square 2. The Kopitiam houses several excellent hawker-style stalls that deliver authentic Singaporean flavors at prices that won’t make you wince.
The standout is the Traditional Noodle stall tucked in the corner. Their wanton noodles have that perfect QQ texture with just enough alkaline flavor, topped with char siu that’s actually charred (not just colored red) and plump dumplings. At $4.50, it’s the best-value meal in the entire building.
Location: Basement 1, Square 2, 10 Sinaran Drive, 307506
Hours: Daily 7am-10pm (individual stall hours may vary)
Price: $4-8 per meal
Phone: +65 6255 0355
LOCAL FAVORITES: Beyond the wanton noodles, don’t miss the chicken rice stall (ask for extra chicken skin if you’re feeling decadent), and the nasi padang with its gloriously rich rendang. The economic rice stall also offers surprisingly fresh veggies compared to most food courts.
This is my default lunch spot when nothing else is calling to me. For $6, I can get a complete meal with change left over, and the quality is consistently decent. The seating can get crowded during peak hours, but the turnover is quick.
The Wrap-Up: My Novena Food Philosophy
Been eating around Novena since before Velocity even had that big renovation. My colleagues think I’m nuts for knowing what day each stall changes their oil or which cashier gives extra sauce packets. But here we are — somehow I’ve become the person friends text at 11pm asking “eh where to eat tmr near Tan Tock Seng?” like I’m some walking Novena Burpple guide.
I didn’t plan on being this invested. It just happened after years of “let’s grab lunch” convos with colleagues. My wallet still hasn’t forgiven me for that three-month phase when I ate TungLok duck weekly because I was trying to impress a client. (Relationship with client: successful. Relationship with my savings account: complicated.)
What I love about Novena is that it’s damn practical. Not atas like Dempsey, not hipster central like Tiong Bahru. Just reliable spots where you actually get your money’s worth. Where else can you have $5 wanton mee for lunch, then celebrate a bonus with $98 duck the same week, all within 200m?
Last December when the office air-con died during that crazy heatwave, I parked myself at Coffee Bean for three straight days. By day three, my usual Ice Blended was waiting at “my” table when I walked in. Didn’t even have to order. The barista just nodded like, “Same spot, bro?” This kind of thing doesn’t happen at those fancy cafes where they don’t even remember you after 50 visits.
Each of these food places is tied to some random memory now. Like that ridiculous thunderstorm where I got stuck at Harry’s with an ex-colleague, and five beers later we’d sketched out a business plan on napkins. (Still haven’t started that business, but the napkins are probably somewhere in my drawer). Or that time I was having the worst week ever, and the makcik at Kopitiam somehow added extra chicken to my nasi padang without me asking. Small act of kindness, but swear I almost cried right there.
Call me sentimental, but I’ve had job offers with better pay that I’ve turned down partly because I couldn’t imagine giving up my Novena lunch routine. My partner says I need therapy for this attachment, but then again, she’s the one who makes us detour here on weekends just for Ya Kun’s kaya toast set.
Anyway lah, if you work or live around here, hope this guide saves you from wasting calories on mediocre food. And if you’re just visiting — maybe for a hospital appointment or whatever — at least you won’t be stuck eating sad sandwiches from the convenience store. Die die must try at least the congee. Your stomach will thank you.
FAQ: Everything You’re Too Lazy To Ask
Hospital staff and visitors, I got you. The most convenient options are in the nearby Square 2 mall. Mun Zuk is perfect for something hearty but not food coma-inducing, while The Soup Spoon works if you need something quick before rushing back. The Kopitiam food court in Square 2 basement has decent economic rice stalls if you’re watching your budget.
If you have more time (like a longer lunch break or after visiting hours), cross over to Velocity for better options. The walkway connects directly, so you won’t even need to brave the heat or rain. Pro tip for TTSH staff: flash your employee card at Josh’s Grill for a cheeky 10% discount that isn’t advertised!
Budget-conscious friends, Novena isn’t just for the expense account crowd. My go-to cheap eats:
- Kopitiam food court (Square 2 B1): Wanton noodles ($5.50), chicken rice ($4.50), economic rice (from $5)
- Ya Kun Kaya Toast: Kaya toast set with eggs and kopi ($5.80)
- Old Chang Kee: Two curry puffs + tea ($5.40 combo)
- Mun Zuk: Plain congee with you tiao ($6.50)
- Four Leaves: Assorted buns and pastries ($1.80-3.50)
- Fairprice Finest (Square 2): Ready-to-eat section with surprisingly decent pasta and local dishes ($6-8)
The real hidden gem is the economic rice stall in Velocity basement food court (not Kopitiam). Auntie there is super generous with portions if you’re a regular. I’ve walked away with four dishes and rice for $7 before. Just don’t tell everyone or the queue will get worse!
For my Muslim friends: The Soup Spoon and SaladStop! are both halal-certified and solid options. But the real standout is Hajah Maimunah at Square 2 – their beef rendang is RIDICULOUS and tastes like someone’s grandma made it (in the best way). Positano Risto at Velocity is another decent halal Italian option if you’re craving pasta, though it’s nothing I’d specifically cross town for.
The halal stall at Velocity food court (Al-Ameen) also does a pretty good mee rebus and mee siam if you’re looking for a quick meal under $7. And don’t sleep on McDonald’s – the Novena branch is reliably halal and somehow always seems fresher than other locations.
Plant-based people actually have decent options here. SaladStop! is the obvious one, but skip their default options and build your own bowl instead – much better value. The hidden gem is Real Food at Square 2, where their Monkey Head mushroom rendang is freakishly meat-like (I’ve tricked carnivore friends with it). Poke Theory has started doing really good plant-based protein alternatives too, and most Chinese spots like Mun Zuk can make veggie versions of their dishes if you’re nice about asking.
There’s also a vegetarian economic rice stall in the Velocity food court that’s surprisingly flavorful – you’d never guess some of those mock meat dishes aren’t the real thing. Their chilli “fish” is mysteriously addictive. The Soup Spoon also has at least 2-3 vegetarian options daily, and they’re clearly marked on the menu.
Nobody likes queueing in Singapore heat. For breakfast, come before 8am or after 10am on weekdays. Lunch is hellish between 12-2pm, so aim for 11:30am (right when places open) or after 2pm. Dinner gets packed from 6:30-8pm, so either eat like an elderly person at 5:30pm or come after 8:30pm. Weekends are generally a disaster all day, but early mornings (before 9am) and late afternoons (3-5pm) tend to be marginally less awful. For super popular spots like Omoté, just make a damn reservation regardless of when you’re going.
The hospital lunch crowd is a unique beast – avoid 12-1:30pm at all costs if you’re near TTSH. Also, the Velocity food court is way less crowded than Square 2’s Kopitiam, even during peak hours. If you absolutely must eat during peak times, use food delivery apps to order ahead, then just pick up your food and skip the queue entirely – this works especially well at The Soup Spoon and KFC.
Parents, I see your stroller struggles. The most kid-friendly spots with decent high chairs and space for strollers are:
- Swensen’s (Velocity Level 1): Reliable kids’ menu, ice cream to bribe good behavior, and they’re used to chaos
- Food Republic (Velocity Level 4): Spacious seating with options for picky eaters
- Pizza Hut (Square 2): Their weekday lunch set is surprisingly affordable and kid-friendly
- The Soup Spoon: Quick service and they actually have decent kids portions
A secret most parents don’t know: The Starbucks at the entrance of Velocity has a small play corner tucked at the back. It’s nothing fancy, just some kiddy tables and a few toys, but it can save your sanity during a coffee break. And unlike other areas, the staff here don’t seem to mind a bit of kid noise.
Also, the nursing room in Square 2 (Level 2) is much cleaner and more spacious than the one in Velocity. You’re welcome.
Night owls aren’t completely screwed in Novena. Harry’s stays open until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays, and their kitchen runs until closing. KFC and Xin Wang both serve until 10pm daily. If you’re desperate for proper supper options, Balestier Road is just a short Grab away, with spots like Founder Bak Kut Teh and several dim sum joints that serve into the wee hours. I’ve stumbled into 126 Dim Sum at 2am more times than I care to admit.
The 7-Eleven at Velocity ground floor stocks surprisingly decent ready-to-eat meals, and they have a microwave you can use. Their Japanese-style bento boxes aren’t half bad for a desperate 11pm situation. Also, the McDonald’s at Square2 is open until midnight most days, and their McDelivery runs even later if you can’t be bothered to leave your office/home.
Parking at Novena can be a nightmare if you don’t time it right. Here’s the real deal:
- Velocity/Square2 parking: Expensive ($2.40 per hour) and fills up fast during dinner hours (6-8pm). Weekday evenings after 8:30pm are much better.
- Oasia Hotel parking: Slightly cheaper alternative but limited spaces.
- Royal Square: Often overlooked and usually has spaces even when Velocity is full.
- UOL Building: If you’re eating at Velocity, this is actually closer than the furthest spots in Velocity’s own carpark, and usually has spaces.
MONEY HACK: Velocity validates parking (1 hour free) with $50 spend – so combine your dinner receipt with a small NTUC purchase to hit the minimum if needed. Square2 has a similar deal but requires $80 spend.
Given the MRT access (Novena station is literally connected to Square2/Velocity), I honestly just take public transport whenever possible. The money saved on parking easily pays for a dessert!
When laziness strikes and you’re nearby, these places package their food properly so it actually survives the journey:
- The Soup Spoon: Their soups stay hot, and they package bread separately so it doesn’t get soggy
- Mun Zuk: They seal their congee containers properly (no leakage) and pack you tiao separately
- Josh’s Grill: Their chicken arrives still juicy somehow, and sauce in separate containers
- Poke Theory: Everything neatly separated so nothing gets soggy
Places to AVOID ordering delivery from:
- Any ramen place: Just don’t. It’s sad and soggy by the time it arrives.
- Xin Wang: Their toast arrives as a soggy mess – total waste of money
- Coffee Bean: Their drinks arrive half-empty and at room temperature
If you order frequently from Novena spots, the GrabUnlimited monthly subscription is actually worth it if you order at least 8 times a month. The reduced delivery fees add up quickly.
Besides Mei Heong Yuen that I mentioned earlier (still my top pick), there are a few other sweet spots worth trying:
- Châteraisé (Velocity B1): Japanese-style cakes that are lighter and less sweet than most bakeries
- Hvala (Square2 L2): Premium Japanese matcha desserts and drinks – their matcha lava cake is worth the calories
- Bingz (Velocity L2): Taiwanese shaved ice that’s perfect for hot days
- DONQ (Square2 B1): Japanese bakery with amazing cream puffs and custard buns
The secret dessert MVP is actually the NTUC Finest bakery section late at night. After 9pm, they discount all their day’s pastries by 50%. Their chocolate lava cake heated up in the microwave (they have one near the seating area) with the 50% discount is possibly the best value dessert in all of Novena at $2.45.
For bubble tea addicts, the best one isn’t any of the main chains, but the small Chicha San Chen stall in Velocity B1. Their tea base is actually made from real tea leaves, not powder, and they’re not stingy with toppings.
What’s your favorite spot in Novena? Did I miss anything actually good? Drop a comment below – I’m always looking for new places to try (especially dessert spots because I have the sweet tooth of a five-year-old).