Remembering…Katong

Posted by June Yong under Food, Lifestyle, Reflections
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Disclaimer: The title of this entry is misleading; this is more about my tummy’s desires rather than nostalgic pieces of Katong. But what the heck. This wandering is inspired by A Katongite’s Musings.

Last Wednesday, I trudged the streets of Katong, letting memory lead the way. I passed by this old rundown place, located at 25/26 Still Road South. It turns out to be the former Grand Hotel (pictured above), now just a ghost of its old grandeur.

This was my real destination and motivation. There are few things I remember as well as kaya toast…and curry puffs that are oh so buttery. I took an illegitimate bite of the curry puff as I was too hungry.

This is the infamous Chin Mee Chin Confectionery, 204 East Coast Road. Anyone who is an east-sider should already know CMC. But don’t look down on this old coffeeshop run by aunties and ah-peks. Though an antique fixture on east coast road, they have also moved with the times. The kaya toast is now made with raisin breadrolls, so the raisins redefine the whole ‘kaya toast’ experience.

Plus there are other droolables too. If you want to appear like a regular, please do not expect to served. Grab a plate and tongs from the display shelf, and pick your poison - swiss sugar roll, cream puff, curry puff, whatever. Then sit down and order your tea and toast. When the bill comes after the food is plonked down, just pay. No questions asked.

Dizzying floral wallpaper, wooden chairs, marble-top tables, geometrical floor tiles; the runway style of a 1950s coffeeshop never goes out of fashion.

And just a few doors down is my family’s favourite haunt. Peranakan Inn serves up the most delicious, home-cooked, old-school, spiced-up dishes. When grandma was still alive, she was always delighted when we brought her here. It is located just beside Katong Antique House which happens to be a museum of Peranakan artefacts.

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