Step into Fortune Centre on any given weekday lunchtime, and you are immediately hit by a wall of energy. It is a wonderfully chaotic mix of office workers in lanyards, older folks fresh from the nearby Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, and the comforting, herbal aroma of a dozen different kitchens firing up at once.
Over the past six months, I have made it my personal mission to eat my way through this iconic building, a hidden gem along Middle Road and Waterloo Street. I have probably tried over fifteen different vegetarian stalls here, standing in snaking queues and sharing tissue-choped tables just to find the truly special ones. If you think plant-based food is just sad salads and plain tofu, this old-school mall is going to prove you completely wrong.
Here are six incredible spots hiding in plain sight that you absolutely need to try among the many Fortune Centre food places.
1.New Station Rice Bar: Affordable Local Dishes with Wok Hei
New Station Rice Bar, formerly known as Station Snack Bar at Orchard Plaza, is a well loved eatery on the third floor. It delivers zi char-style local dishes with a modern twist and affordable prices. Their signature Salted Egg Chicken Rice with Fried Egg ($8.50) is a must-try, pairing crispy fried chicken with the rich, creamy salted egg sauce atop fragrant rice with fried egg.
The pork belly rice ($8.50) and fried hokkien mee ($7) also showcase the local flavours with authentic wok hei and substantial meal portions.
This station rice bar is a favorite among office workers looking for quick yet satisfying local classics. The casual setting makes it easy to drop by for a hearty meal without fuss, and the friendly staff add to the welcoming vibe.
Insider Tip: If you're planning to visit during lunch, try to come a bit early or later than the usual peak hours to snag a seat easily. And hey, don’t be shy to ask the staff for their daily specials—they often have hidden gems that aren’t on the menu!
2. Bao Er Cafe: Reliable Comfort Food and Traditional Dishes
Bao Er Cafe is my go-to cosy diner for traditional local comfort food that won’t hurt your wallet. Situated near the main entrance of Fortune Centre, it’s perfect for breakfast or lunch, serving up familiar favourites like chicken katsu curry ($9.80), fried rice ($6), and rice with fried egg ($5).
Their chive pork dumplings ($5) are a personal favourite light bite, and the warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot for a casual, no-fuss meal. If you’re exploring Fortune Centre Vegetarian Food or just craving reliable local dishes, Bao Er Cafe is a solid choice that always hits the spot.
Best for: Affordable, comforting local dishes in a relaxed setting, ideal for breakfast or lunch.
3. Coffee Cafe Bar: A Spot for Light Bites and Craft Beers
For food lovers who want to linger over drinks or light bites, Coffee Cafe Bar provides a relaxing environment with a selection of craft beers and freshly brewed coffee. This coffee cafe bar also offers pastries and snacks, making it a great place to unwind after dinner time or between meals.
Their standout dish is the Tea and Ice Cream Fusion ($8.90), which combines any of three tea flavours with an ice cream for a refreshing treat.
Its location within Fortune Centre makes it a convenient stop for those exploring other restaurants in the building. The intimate dining setting here, with cozy seating and warm lighting, enhances the overall experience, inviting guests to relax and savor their drinks at a leisurely pace.
Coffee Cafe Bar is also popular among those looking for a quiet spot to catch up on food news or enjoy a casual meet-up with friends. Whether you're in the mood for a rich cup of Lavazza coffee or a light bite to complement your craft beer, this cafe bar strikes the perfect balance between comfort and conviviality within the bustling Fortune Centre.
4. Green Pasture Cafe: Organic Ingredients and Vegan Versions of Local Classics
Green Pasture Cafe stands out for its commitment to organic ingredients and wholesome, plant-forward dishes. This eatery offers vegan versions of local classics like mapo tofu, char kway teow, and nasi lemak, making it a haven for vegetarians and vegans.
Their mushroom udon ($9.90) is well-loved for its thick mushroom soup broth and fresh ingredients, including cherry tomatoes that add a refreshing touch. The cold natto soba ($15) is another popular choice for a light yet satisfying meal.
From my visits, I’ve noticed how the cafe effortlessly blends traditional flavors with modern health-conscious twists, creating dishes that are both comforting and innovative. It’s a place where you can truly enjoy the best of both worlds in vegetarian dining.
For more ideas on how plant-based dining is growing across Singapore, Healthy Food Guide offers a helpful look at the wider vegetarian scene.
5. Sakedokoro Eizaburo: Japanese Grilled Dishes and Mega Chicken Karaage Don
Sakedokoro Eizaburo is a buzzing Japanese izakaya-style spot on the third floor, famous for its grilled dishes and vibrant atmosphere. If you’re a fan of crispy fried chicken, you’ve got to try their Mega Chicken Karaage Don ($13.90), piled high and absolutely addictive.
Sushi lovers will also enjoy the Mentaiyaki Salmon Don ($10.80), packed with flavor. Pair your meal with their great selection of sake and Chinese wine for the full experience.
This popular eatery draws in both local foodies and Japanese diners craving authentic flavors and craft beers, making it a must-visit at Fortune Centre for anyone looking for delicious Japanese food in Singapore.
6. Pine Tree Cafe: Vegetarian Restaurants Serving Local Comfort Food
Pine Tree Cafe is a beloved staple among vegetarian restaurants in Fortune Centre, especially for those who crave local comfort food with a plant-based twist. What I love about this spot is how they use mock meat and fried beancurd skin to recreate familiar favourites like Hakka Yong Tau Foo ($9) and fried hokkien mee ($7).
They also offer options with brown rice and bee hoon, which feel wholesome and comforting without being heavy. The cafe’s calm and unpretentious ambiance makes it a perfect refuge for temple-goers from the nearby Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, health-conscious diners, and anyone looking for affordable, hearty vegetarian meals.
Every time I visit, I’m struck by how Pine Tree Cafe manages to keep things simple yet delicious, proving that vegetarian food can be just as satisfying and full-flavoured as any meat dish. If you’re exploring Fortune Centre and want a place that feels like a warm, familiar hug in food form, this is it.
7. Bee Hoon and Authentic Clam Noodles at Wawa Lala Bee Hoon
Wawa Lala Bee Hoon is renowned for authentic clam noodles served with fresh clams, fresh cockles, and rice noodles or bee hoon. Their signature Authentic Clam Noodles with Chinese Wine ($9.50) is a flavorful local classic that food lovers rave about.
The broth is often praised for its rich umami taste, enhanced by the addition of Chinese wine, which complements the sweetness of the fresh seafood. Diners can choose between spicy or non-spicy versions, catering to different palates.
Wawa Lala Bee Hoon also features other popular dishes like Fresh Cockles in Homemade Garlic Butter Sauce ($8.90) and Power Sambal Clams with Tasty Rice ($11.50), showcasing a variety of local delights in a seafood-centric menu.
8. Yat Ka Yan: Traditional Chinese Desserts and Yam Paste
No meal at Fortune Centre is complete without stopping by Yat Ka Yan for traditional desserts. Famous for their Yam Paste ($5.80), Almond Cream ($4.50), and Chendol ($4), this well-loved eatery offers a variety of traditional desserts that bring nostalgic comfort.
Their Mini Set of 3 Desserts ($6.80) is a real crowd-pleaser, letting you sample different sweet soups and pastes, perfect for ending your meal on a sweet, satisfying note. Whether you’re craving the silky smooth almond cream or the rich, comforting yam paste, Yat Ka Yan never fails to hit the spot.
It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, savor the flavors, and soak in a little bit of old-school charm amidst the bustling energy of Fortune Centre. So, if you’re looking to wrap up your food adventure here with something sweet and memorable, this is definitely the spot to visit.
Quick Tips Before You Go
- Timing is everything: To avoid massive lunch crowds and secure a seat without hovering awkwardly, try to arrive before 11.45 AM or after 1.30 PM.
- Payment methods: Most stalls accept PayNow, but the network can be spotty inside the older parts of the building. It’s wise to carry some cash.
- For big eaters: Places like New Station Rice Bar and Madness Nasi Lemak offer generous portions that will keep you full until dinner.
Time to Makan at Fortune Centre
Fortune Centre is honestly a food lover’s paradise, especially for those seeking vegetarian food and local dishes with authentic flavours. From the fried chicken and salted egg chicken at New Station Rice Bar to the mushroom udon and cold natto soba at Green Pasture Cafe, and the traditional desserts at Yat Ka Yan, this building has something for everyone.
Bookmark this guide, share it with your kakis, and dive into the vibrant food scene that continues to thrive in this historic Singaporean landmark by visiting and clicking Tasteourtradition.com
