Sen Yen: Get Old-School Charcoal-Grilled Kaya Toast And Kopi In Sin Ming

Sen Yen Charcoal Traditional Toast in Sin Ming

The humble trifecta of coconut-and-egg jam, butter, and toasted bread has become one of Singapore’s most recognisable breakfast emblems since its creation during the colonial era. These days, you can get kaya toast at nearly every kopitiam, but very few still toast their bread the old-school way, atop charcoal, preferring the convenience of electric grills. Sen Yen Charcoal Traditional Toast in Sin Ming, however, is one of the rare gems still keeping this practice alive.

Image credit: @scottkeijitan

Located near Sin Ming Roti Prata, in Jin Fa Kopitiam, Sen Yen Charcoal Traditional Toast serves up charcoal-grilled kaya toast that fans praise for having an “old-school taste”. Instead of the generic thin and crispy brown toast slices, Sen Yen uses thick, fluffy white toast slices.

You have the option of getting traditional toast, or crusty French bread to have with a generous dollop of house-made Hainanese kaya, and a generous slab of cold butter.

Image credit: @fatdieme59

Two slices cost $1.20, while three pieces cost $1.80. You can also get your kaya toast along with the customary soft-boiled eggs, and a cup of kopi or teh. The breakfast set will set you back at around $3.40.

Image credit: @giant_mii

Charcoal-grilled kaya toast remains a rarity in Singapore. Aside from Sen Yen, only a handful of other eateries do it. The most familiar ones include Heap Seng Leong in Lavender, Chin Mee Chin Eating House in Katong, and Ah Seng (Hai Nam) Coffee in Amoy Street Food Centre.

If you want to check out other some of the places to find the best kaya toast in Singapore, check out our traditional breakfast guide.

We also have a breakfast cafe guide if you prefer pancakes and platters for your morning meal!

Address: 24 Sin Ming Road, Jin Fa Kopitiam, #01-51, Singapore 570024
Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 7am to 9pm, Sat-Sun 5:30am to 5pm

Featured image adapted from @fatdieme59 and @scottkeijitan