I first came across Bao Er Cafe through a post about its Hokkien mee and kaya toast, which made me curious enough to check it out on a Friday. The brand had already built a following from its earlier days at Balestier Plaza, so I decided it was time to see what this Fortune Centre restaurant was about.
I wasn’t looking for perfection, but I wanted to understand why its dishes had drawn attention beyond its original home. From its wok-fried dishes to its breakfast offerings, Bao Er Cafe feels like a continuation of the same story, just in a new setting.
Signature Fried Hokkien Mee With Wok Hei And Seafood Flavour
Bao Er Cafe’s signature hokkien mee combines yellow noodles and bee hoon fried with seafood-rich broth, giving the noodles a savoury base and a noticeable wok hei. The sauce coats each strand without making the dish overly wet, allowing the noodles to retain their texture.
The bean sprouts provide a fresh crunch that cuts through the slightly oily texture of the fried hokkien mee. With the seafood broth absorbed into the noodles, each bite carries a balance of smoky wok flavour and umami.
I do want to try their deluxe seafood version next which I hear comes with more seafood variety like prawns, squid and scallops.
Kaya Butter Toast Set And Peanut Butter Toast For Breakfast
Bao Er Cafe’s kaya toast set keeps its breakfast offering simple with toasted bread, kaya, butter, eggs and a drink. The toast arrives with a crispy exterior, while the kaya and melted butter create a sweet and slightly sticky layer against the crunch of the bread.
The kaya toast comes with soft-boiled eggs, which add a savoury contrast when paired with soy sauce and pepper. Together with a cup of coffee, it makes for a balanced morning meal where the sweetness of the kaya is softened by the drink’s bitterness.
For those who prefers a nuttier taste, the peanut butter toast offers a different take on the classic toast pairing. The thicker spread brings a richer texture, with the peanut flavour replacing the coconut sweetness of kaya while keeping the same crisp toast base.
Bao Er Cafe’s Wok-Fried Rice And Local Sides
Beyond its signature hokkien mee, Bao Er Cafe also serves a selection of wok-fried rice options that lean towards familiar local flavours. The portions are generous enough that my meal turned into dinner plans, with some packed away for takeaway later.
Luncheon Meat Fried Rice
The luncheon meat fried rice with stood out for its simple combination of savoury ingredients. The diced luncheon meat adds saltiness to the rice, while the wok seasoning and touch of soy sauce give each grain a deeper flavour.
It is the kind of dish that does not rely on too many additions, letting the crispy edges of the luncheon meat and the smoky fried rice carry the plate.
Har Cheong Gai With A Fried Egg
The har cheong gai adds a different texture to the meal, bringing a crispy fried exterior with the distinct aroma of prawn paste seasoning. Served alongside the rice dishes, it works well as a side for those who enjoy stronger savoury flavours.
I also added a fried egg, where the runny yolk helped bring more richness to the rice and chicken. It was a small addition, but one that made the plate feel more complete.
Sambal Kampung Fried Rice
For something with more heat, the sambal-based fried rice brings a spicy element to Bao Er Cafe’s wok-fried selection. The sambal adds a stronger chilli flavour compared to the luncheon meat version, though the spice level may be alright for diners who prefer a gentler kick.
Things To Know Before Visiting Bao Er Cafe
Is Bao Er Cafe worth making a trip down for?
Sure, I wouldn’t call Bao Er Cafe a hidden gem since it’s already a known spot in Fortune Centre. But if you’re in the area and looking for a casual meal with Hokkien mee, fried rice and kaya toast, it’s a place worth keeping in mind.
Where is Bao Er Cafe located?
The Bao Er Cafe address is #02-06, Fortune Centre, 190 Middle Road, Singapore 188979. It’s a convenient stop near Bugis and Rochor MRT stations, whether you’re dropping by for breakfast or a quick meal.
Will you need to wait for a table?
I’d avoid the peak breakfast and lunch periods if you prefer a quieter visit. The cafe is a casual dining spot, so you may need to wait briefly when the crowd comes in.
What should you order if it’s your first time?
Start with the signature hokkien mee. That’s the dish I’d look towards first, but the fried rice options and kaya butter toast give you more reasons to return and explore the rest of the menu.
Anything else I should know before visiting?
Come hungry, come casual, and don’t expect polish. Expect a hot wok and a fair plate of local food. If you want to plan a fuller outing, the best food at Fortune Centre guide covers what else is worth your appetite here.
Worth a Wok-In
I have to comment: the menu has enough variety to give you a few different reasons to drop by. Bao Er Cafe may not be the kind of place you plan an entire day around, but it fits naturally into those moments when you’re around Fortune Centre and craving for something satisfying.
Sometimes, a decent eatery doesn’t need to be the star of your plans. It just needs to be somewhere you can save for when a satisfying meal happens to be exactly what you’re after.
