aeiou cafe

Who would have guessed that, lying within this exterior, is a fantasy land of so much eye candy? I took so many photos and could have gone on all day…

The ‘Oriental Antique House’ signboard was actually preserved by the owners from the previous antique shop from the 1970s! Jalan Besar is the new Tiong Bahru, and this ‘old signboard’ tradition seems to be in keeping with forerunners of the area Chye Seng Huat.

The cafe doesn’t call itself ‘Oriental Antique House’ though. Rather, it carries the whimsical name of ‘aeiou cafe‘.

I loved the eclectic decor, and the splashes of colour, that somehow all cohere. The exterior already hints of how this cafe is not the usual run of the mill one.

Upon entry, you are greeted by this cheery counter, and an expanse of space – high ceilings (with a ‘live’ plant wall!) and a long deep corridor of dining space.

Even within the restaurant, near the back in a sort of dining alcove, they had preserved metal gates which lend themselves easily as a backdrop. It didn’t feel like a commercial cafe, but rather like a friend’s home, a friend who loves all the stuff you see inside.

The other thing that I felt compelled to take numerous photos of, were the fabric covers on the chairs! They seemed to be all different, and I would have taken more photos but for the fear of creeping out all the other fellow diners.

Look at them upside down pots and kettles! Ahhhhh… Love!

Enough about the space – what about the food? Ultimately, I believe that a cafe’s sustainability and longevity boils down to its food. Here is the menu…

I thought there was a good range offered – from All Day Breakfast sets, to burgers, sandwiches, sides and other mains. I had initially wanted to order the Pulled Beef with Carmelised Onions Sandwich, but it was not available that day.

So I took the recommendation of the friendly waitstaff, and ordered the Duck Confit ($24.90). No regrets! It was delicious. From the juicy duck to the awesome sauce, and the cauliflower in the piping hot small metal trough, every morsel was delicious.

As stated in the menu, the Duck Confit does take 20 minutes to prepare. But you know what they say about good things coming to those who wait, right?

Once suitably filled, I enjoyed pottering about the fantastic displays of items on sale.

I love these plates below! Instagram-perfect. I love the first one – indeed there are “some things that just require cake”. Gimme a slice right nao.

And these little dishes – so very pretty. And these handmade wooden broaches and earrings! Resistance was futile so I succumbed to a brooch purchase. Guess which one?

What a nice spot to park oneself for leisure or work. I’d love to be back!

Here’s another review posted earlier this year by a friend too!

aeiou cafe
111 King George’s Avenue
Tel: 6291 2698

Note: This is not a sponsored post. : )