ToMo Cafe Review: Breakfast @ Joo Chiat
The food options along Joo Chiat Street have gone international.
The culinary landscape along Joo Chiat Street has undergone a remarkable transformation, expanding its horizons beyond its initial reputation as a hub for Vietnamese cuisine. In recent times, it has evolved into a vibrant cafe destination, giving stalwart cafe districts like Tiong Bahru and Holland Village a run for their money.
Joining the street is ToMo. Nestled at 189 Joo Chiat Road and found adjacent to the popular Common Man Coffee Roasters, this relatively new Japanese-inspired cafe could be easily missed as there is no obvious signage save for 189 on the shopfront. Interestingly, these cafes focus on the breakfast and lunch crowd.
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Decor
ToMo does feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows, allowing the subtle "Tomo" sign to become visible when you gaze through the reflective glass. Stepping inside, you're immediately greeted by an inviting and open atmosphere, exuding a warm, earthy ambience reminiscent of a page from the Muji catalogue. Adding a touch of sophistication, the emerald-coloured counter serves as an elegant focal point within the space.
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The floor-to-ceiling glass panel also means it is a good place to people-watch if you are sitting near the entrance. The seating by the side is a little quirky as it is meant for 3 for 4 people. However, if you find yourself in pairs, opting for the conventional tables and chairs might provide a more comfortable and traditional dining experience.
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Food
As a Japanese-style cafe, it has Japanese elements in its menu. There are Pasta, Sando, Sharing dishes and Desserts. There is also brunch till 5pm daily.
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We were there for a light breakfast and chose the Tonkatsu Sando and a sharing plate of Mentai Tori Karrage.
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The Tonkatsu Sando ($20) comes with pork katsu, bulldog sauce, crude cabbage, mayo and fries. It is an interesting mix as this is the first time we are trying a Japanese sandwich. While it's undoubtedly palatable, the only drawback is its relatively higher price point, making it a tad on the expensive side.
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