Nyonya Taste by Brew and Bar Review : Old School Peranakan Vibes

Tucked at the far end of Bedok Road, where it meets Upper Changi Road, is a quaint restaurant called Nyonya Taste by Brew and Bar. 

Located along a quiet row of shophouses, the restaurant is easy to miss—if not for the large banner boldly proclaiming itself as the best Peranakan food in town.

The Inside

Step inside and it’s like entering a time capsule. The dimly lit interior oozes old-school charm, with vintage typewriters, rotary phones, and nostalgic oddities tucked in every corner.

It’s a scene straight out of the 1980s, untouched by time and dripping with personality. 

If retro vibes are your thing, this place is a hidden gem. Beware, as one might get a mixed reaction to the decor. My partner proclaims it is sleazy, while I find it retroish. 

The Food

We kicked off the meal with an Iced Lemongrass—a refreshing drink to cleanse the palate and set the tone for what’s to come.

The Beef Rendang was a standout. Soft, tender chunks of beef that practically melted in the mouth, with a mild spice that didn't overpower.

Next up, the Nyonya Ayam Buah Keluak. This version had a creamy curry base that is lighter and than the usual intense renditions we've had elsewhere. As we prefer the darker version, this was a toss up for us.

The Udang Lemak Nanas came with peeled prawns swimming in a rich, spicy, and tangy curry infused with pineapple. A delightful balance of heat and sweetness that perked up the taste buds. We paired our dishes with Blue Fragrant Rice—a simple touch that added Peranakan flair to the meal.

For dessert, we tried the Yam Ice Cream, which delivered a familiar yam flavour but didn't quite wow us. The Orh Nee with Ginkgo Nuts, however, was a satisfying classic to end the meal—smooth, comforting, and not too sweet.

The Verdict

Dining here feels like stepping into a heritage photo frame. If you showed up in a kebaya, no one would blink, as you would blend right in with the decor. The food was solid across the board, offering approachable Peranakan flavours without being too heavy on the spices. While prices are on the higher side, the consolation is that there is no GST. There was also only 1 staff on a Friday evening serving 5 tables, but we must say she did a great job on orders and timing.

After your meal, take a stroll across the street to check out Singapore’s wackiest house, a private home that looks like a theme park dropped into the heart of Bedok. A quirky bonus to end the night.

All in all, Nyonya Taste by Brew and Bar serves up a pretty charming way to enjoy a meal, especially if you like your food with a side of nostalgia.