INDOCAFÉ – the white house is set in black-and-white colonial bungalow along Scotts Road. The ambience is homely and exclusive in equal measure; the dining room, richly appointed with potted exotic hothouse orchids and framed antique kebaya blouses that double as art on the walls.

All the classics of the Peranakan canon are on the menu. The signature kueh pie tee with delicious braised jicama filling is a great way to start the meal. The filling and condiments are brought to the table and you can assemble them according to your preference.

Some dishes get a bit of a twist. For instance, the Otah Klasik (spicy fish pate) has a custardy texture much like Japanese chawanmushi. Mains are served communal-style for sharing. The organic ayam buah keluak is milder in spice than we expected, while the wagyu beef rendang is spoon-tender with nuanced spices. The black glutinous rice pudding makes for a rich, sweet ending to the meal.

*Good to note: Don’t leave without trying a blend from the lovely range of Indonesian single origin coffees. But if caffeine is not your thing, there are also refreshing fruit coolers and gourmet teas.