Chin Mee Chin: Nostalgic Journey with Iconic Round Kaya Toast
Mention Kaya Toast in Katong, and the legendary Chin Mee Chin Confectionery is sure to follow. Once shuttered, this heritage coffee shop made a miraculous comeback that captured public attention.
Here, nostalgia and tradition come together in every bite of kaya toast and classic pastries.
The Legacy of Chin Mee Chin
Chin Mee Chin’s Revival
Founded in 1925, Chin Mee Chin started as a humble bread delivery service before opening a kopitiam (traditional coffee shop) in the 1950s.
It served as a beloved gathering spot for local residents in the Katong area for decades.
The abrupt closure of the iconic venue in 2018 saddened many Singaporeans, but fortunately, it reopened in 2021 through a partnership with Ebb & Flow Group.
The exterior remains similar to its original design, featuring a fresh coat of signature mint-blue paint and an updated red logo at the front.
Now with an extended alfresco dining area, the revitalised Chin Mee Chin is marking a new chapter in its legacy.
Timeless Charm
Located along East Coast Road, Chin Mee Chin is a charming nod to the past.
In contrast to its freshly restored exterior, the interior has been carefully renovated to retain its original character.
The mosaic flooring, tiled walls, vintage marble-top tables, and bentwood chairs remain just as they were.
Scattered throughout the space, retro touches like a tear-off calendar and vintage speakers evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era.
The old logo remains intact above the terrace entrance.
The spacious outdoor terrace is fitted with a retractable canopy, where large fans and ceiling fans gently whir overhead, providing a cool breeze.
A bold red logo pops against a wall painted in cheerful blue-and-white stripes, while red plastic chairs and white tables complete the look.
Together, they create a one-of-a-kind space — playful, vibrant, and far more than just retro.
Signature Kaya Toast & Pastries
Sweet and Savoury Selection
Chin Mee Chin is open daily from 8am to 4pm, with no regular days off.
The menu offers a variety of light bites like bread and pastries, as well as heartier mains such as chicken curry and pork chops.
The display case is packed with an array of pastries like cupcakes and tarts, alongside savoury buns filled with luncheon meat and otah (spicy fish paste).
All are reasonably priced, starting from $2 each. Popular picks tend to sell out by the afternoon, so it’s best to drop by earlier in the day.
Iconic Round Kaya Toast
After placing your order at the counter, pick up any ready-to-serve drinks or pastries and take them to your seat.
For items that take longer to prepare, a buzzer will be provided. When it sounds, simply return to the counter to collect your order.
Chin Mee Chin’s signature Kaya Toast is served on a classic enamel plate.
The round bun — Chin Mee Chin’s trademark — is about the size of a hamburger bun. The crisp surface of the toast gives way to a soft, fluffy interior.
Each piece is carefully crafted with house-made kaya jam and thin slices of butter.
Old-School Handcrafted Pastries
Beyond Kaya Toast, the handmade pastries are also popular.
The cream horn features a crisp, horn-shaped pastry generously filled with cream, while the Kaya Swiss Roll wraps kaya jam and cream in a soft sponge cake.
Though these nostalgic treats may not be as fancy as modern cake shop offerings, they are ideal for a comforting afternoon snack.
Final Thoughts
Step inside Chin Mee Chin and be transported to a bygone era, where timeless nostalgia hangs in the air. Treat yourself to the unique disc-shaped kaya toast — found nowhere else — at this iconic Singaporean retro cafe.
Chin Mee Chin Confectionery
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