This Retro Peranakan Restaurant Near Sembawang Park Is Run By A Couple In Their 70s

Woody Family Peranakan Cafe is a hidden eatery in Sembawang

Image credit: Jeffrey Ng via Google Maps

Woody Family Peranakan Cafe in Sembawang knows how to make an impression. Sprawled all across its space are old memorabilia, photographs and more, along with a giant plushie of Woody from the animated film Toy Story—a playful nod to the restaurant’s name.

Image credit: Woody Family Peranakan House Cafe via Facebook

The strong sense of nostalgia reflects the people behind the business: a couple in their 70s who run the eatery together. Recently, news surfaced about the financial difficulties they’ve faced, including having to sell their HDB flat in order to keep the restaurant afloat. You can read more in this Mothership article.

Image credit: Jeswil L EE via Google Maps

As the name suggests, Woody offers a wide range of Peranakan dishes. The best way to sample all their best flavours is with the Peranakan Tok Bulat ($68.90), a set that feeds up to three people. You get five to choose five standout dishes to enjoy, including Sambal Sotong, Babi Pongteh, Ikan Masak Titek and more.

Image credit: Josephine Tan via Google Maps

Be sure to try the Nasi Ulam ($18), one of the most popular dishes on the menu. Packed with fragrant herbs, this rice dish is served with sambal belachan for some extra heat and depth.

Image credit: shibu joseph via Google Maps

Interestingly, the restaurant also has a number of Western-inspired dishes, such as the Sambal Babi Buah Keluak Burger with Fries ($19.90), Fish Burger with Fries ($18.90), and Laksa Pasta with Prawns ($19.90). We reckon you’d be surprised at the sheer variety of dishes here at Woody Family Peranakan Cafe.

For Peranakan-Western food by an ex-restaurant chef in Joo Chiat, read our Pangi Nut review. For a Michelin-approved Peranakan restaurant in Newton, read our INDOCAFE review.

Address: 12F Andrews Avenue, Singapore 759930
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11:30am to 3pm, 5pm to 11pm
Tel: 6758 1185
Website
Woody Family Peranakan Cafe is not a halal-certified eatery.

Feature image adapted from Jeffrey Ng and Jeswil L EE via Google Maps

Enze Kay

Enze is a Singapore-based food writer. He enjoys noodle dishes from around the world, but local classics such as bak chor mee, wonton mee, and hokkien mee hold a special place in his heart.