A traditional Singaporean breakfast would undoubtedly be the humble kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs and kopi.
While it is a common staple in many coffeeshops across the island, there is a brand that’s synonymous with GOOD kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs and kopi.
Enter Ya Kun Kaya Toast.
This humble brand started way back in 1944, before Singapore’s independence.
The first concrete stall was located in Lau Pa Sat, where it was simply known as Ya Kun Coffeestall. It remained there for 15 years before relocating in 1984 to Telok Ayer Transit Food Market, and then again in 1998 to its present location at Far East Square along China Street.
As someone who loves eating Ya Kun’s kaya toast, I’m ashamed to say that I’ve never been to this OG Ya Kun outlet.
So this morning, I decided that I had to see for myself, to see if the quality of Ya Kun toasts changed with its expansion. And off I went with my kopi-connoisseur colleague.
A Simple Traditional Breakfast
At first glance, the shophouse outlet looks huge and rustic, with the little tiled roof extensions on the side entrance.
However, the indoor seating space is actually quite limited, with more spacious seats available outside. Stepping in, the interior of the outlet is actually quite old-school, with simple tiled walls and raw concrete floors.
The old-school vibe is further accentuated by the marble top tables, wooden stools, and the kopitiam posters with almost-tacky lines.
While the outlet itself isn’t big, the kitchen and food preparation area sure are.
You can choose to order at the counter inside, or from any of the roving aunties – one of the few things that’s not available at other outlets across the island.
This Ya Kun outlet also has portable menus, in contrast to the menu boards typically found at other outlets.
I decided to order my usual Kaya Peanut Toast Set ($4.80) for optimal taste comparison. That’s when I noticed, there was only 1 drink size available.
I always upsize my drink at Ya Kun, so this was a bit of a downer.
Service was incredibly quick and efficient, with the aunties, serving drinks, eggs, and cleaning tables in one swift dance-like movement.
Even the cups used here are different, with a more classic kopitiam look, compared to the usual white Ya Kun cups.
Call me biased, but even the toast here is sliced slightly thinner than the other outlets.
Overall, the meal was splendid. I expected nothing less from Ya Kun. The toasts were thin and crisp and the eggs perfectly soft-boiled (great for dipping).
I loved my cup of Teh while my colleague’s freshly-made kopi was aromatic and sufficiently “gao” without being too sweet.
While Ya Kun has always maintained a high standard for their food and service, what we got at this original outlet was beyond good.
It wasn’t a Ya Kun meal, it was a Ya Kun experience.
Just to clarify, this isn’t sponsored. I just have very strong feelings for Ya Kun Kaya Toast. Though if Ya Kun would like to sponsor, hello, I am available.
Sponsored or not, I will still continue recommending people to Ya Kun Kaya Toast for a good traditional Singaporean breakfast. With over 40 outlets across Singapore, you can find a Ya Kun outlet easily.
However, if you’re looking for the perfect Ya Kun meal, then you should head to this original outlet.
And if you haven’t had Ya Kun Kaya Toast, have you truly lived?
Ya Kun Kaya Toast (First Outlet)
Address: 18 China Street, #01-01, Singapore 049560
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 7.30am – 7pm, Sat: 7.30am – 4.30pm, Sun: 8.30am – 3pm
Contact no.: 6438 3638
Website
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(Header Image Source: DiscoverSG)
