While most diners instinctively gravitate towards the well-known Oriental Kopi for their Nanyang cafe fix, not many realise there are great alternatives—one of which is Old Street Cafe, located along MacPherson Road.
Having recently opened its doors in December 2025, Old Street Cafe might not ring a bell yet—but the folks behind it are the same team behind KL Traditional Chilli Ban Mee, a familiar favourite in the MacPherson neighbourhood since 2013.
While under a different name now, the one thing that remains is their iconic Signature Traditional Chilli Ban Mee ($6.80), now joined by upgraded options such as Chicken Cutlet Ban Mee, which features a massive chicken cutlet, Iberico Pork Ban Mee, Abalone Ban Mee, or Snow Flake Beef Ban Mee ($11.50 each). All of their noodles are handmade daily, served with their house-made chilli paste.Â
Besides their well-loved ban mee choices, the eatery has also expanded its offerings to include a variety of other traditional Nanyang dishes, including their Nonya Laksa, Dry Mee Siam, and Old Street Prawn Noodle ($6.80 each). Those who prefer a rice dish can check out their Old Street Nasi Lemak and Stewed Pork Leg Rice ($6.80 each).Â
If you’re stopping by for a light snack and not a full meal, you can treat yourself to their traditional Toast ($2.50)—which comes with a choice of bread, baguette, or polo bun—and fillings such as Kaya with Butter, Kaya and Peanut Butter, or Nutella. For that classic Singaporean combination, get their Traditional Breakfast Set ($5), featuring toast, eggs, and either kopi or teh.Â
With its simply decorated interior and old-school signboard, the eatery exudes nostalgic charm while offering ample seating for both small and large groups. The next time you get put off by the long lines at Oriental Kopi, keep in mind that Old Street Cafe offers a similarly comforting experience that is worth considering.
If you are still searching for other Nanyang-style eateries in Singapore, check out our review of Tampines’ Heartland By Enjoy, including their Pork Belly Berempah, or Singapura Nanyang Coffee’s Char Siew Kolo Mee and fresh egg tarts.Â
Address: 548 MacPherson Road, Singapore 368227
Operating hours: Mon-Thurs 10am to 10pm Fri-Sun 10am to 11pm
Website
Old Street Cafe is not a halal-certified eatery.
Feature image adapted from Old Street Cafe and Amanda Loh via Google Maps
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