Sometimes in the heart of the city, we just want a simple, satisfying meal. We were happy to find The White Tiffin @ Esplanade Xchange, a casual diner serving Peranakan dishes, nasi lemak and other local favourites at reasonable prices.
Esplanade Xchange
The Esplanade Xchange, sitting above Esplanade MRT Station, provides a convenient air-conditioned underground link between Raffles City, South Beach, Marina Square and Suntec City. Those needing a bite to eat can choose from a range of dining options within Esplanade Xchange.
White Tiffin is situated at the end of Esplanade Xchange near the escalators leading to South Beach and near the linkway to Raffles City.
The White Tiffin @ Esplanade Xchange
The charming retro interior of White Tiffin @ Esplanade Xchange features eye-catching decorations like hurricane lamps and metal plates suspended from the ceiling. The soundtrack of Teresa Teng and other oldies music playing in the background adds to the nostalgic atmosphere. The space itself is cosy, with tables positioned relatively close together. When not packed to capacity, it can be a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal and do some people-watching.
The restaurant operates on a self-service system. Simply place your order and make payment at the counter, and you will be given a buzzer to alert you when your food and drinks are ready for collection.
Menu of White Tiffin @ Esplanade Xchange
The menu of The White Tiffin is straightforward, featuring nasi lemak and Peranakan dishes like babi pongteh alongside local fare such as mee siam. There is also a good range of nyonya kuehs on display at the counter. Diners can create their own set meals with a small top-up to enjoy a drink and either a kueh or chendol ice cream with the main dish.
Below are pictures of the menu boards of The White Tiffin @ Esplanade Xchange.
Tiffin’s Ah Gong Noodle & Beef Rendang
We opted for the Signature Beef Rendang with Rice ($14.90) and Tiffin’s Ah Gong Noodle with Prawn and Meatball ($12.90). We paid the set meal add-on of $2.30 to get a hot coffee and a piece of nyonya kueh.
The Tiffin’s Ah Gong Noodle with Prawn and Meatball was a good dish. The complex broth was rich and delicious, complementing the springy noodles and plumb prawns.
Presented on charming retro enamelware, the beef rendang at The White Tiffin did not disappoint. It lived up to its visual appeal with its delightful taste. The meat was tender and flavourful, offering a pleasing kick of spiciness. The generous portion size made for an enjoyable and satisfying meal.
Nyonya Kuehs
Don’t miss out on the delightful nyonya kuehs on display at The White Tiffin. We sampled a selection. The kueh salat (steamed glutinous rice cake with kaya custard) offered a delightful contrast in textures. The kueh ko swee (steamed brown sugar tapioca cake) was served with lots of grated coconut. It impressed with its satisfying chewiness and delectable flavour.
The kueh dadar – a thin crepe-like pancake, with a sweet and sticky filling made with grated coconut simmered in palm sugar – is one of our favourite kuehs. White Tiffin’s version was good. The skin was soft and springy but not rubbery. The filling was moist and slightly chewy. It was a delightful sweet treat.
Good Local Delicacies
The White Tiffin is unpretentious with a focus on good local delicacies. The White Tiffin @ Esplanade Xchange hits the spot for those seeking a nice and affordable local meal in the heart of the CBD. We will definitely be going back, especially for the nyonya kuehs.
The White Tiffin also has outlets in Changi City Point and Woods Square. A brand new White Tiffin Fusion restaurant just opened in Hotel Faber Park.
Ratings:
Food: 4
Service: 3
Value: 4
Atmosphere: 3
Overall Rating: 4 TOPs
The White Tiffin @ Esplanade Xchange
90 Bras Basah Road #B1-06/45
Singapore 189562
Opening Hours:
Mon – Fri: 8 am – 7 pm
Sat & Sun: 10 am – 9 pm
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