Penny University at Wisma Geylang Serai

Penny University was one of the pioneers of the hip cafe scene in East Coast, offering quality coffee and brunch, along with free Wi-Fi and power outlets. The cafe moved out of its shophouse on East Coast Road in 2022 and relocated to Jalan Klapa in Kampong Glam. Easties will be pleased to know that Penny University is now back in the neighbourhood, having set up shop at Wisma Geylang Serai.

Wisma Geylang Serai

Wisma Geylang Serai (WGS) is perhaps best known for the annual Hari Raya Light-Up and the Ramadan Bazaar it organises. Developed on the site of the former Malay Village, WGS is home to the Geylang Serai Community Club, the South East Community Development Council, the Geylang Serai Heritage Gallery, KURNIA@WGS, arts spaces, and several food and beverage outlets.

Penny University is located on the ground level of WGS, near the junction of Geylang Serai Road and Geylang Road.

Penny University at WGS

The cafe at Wisma Geylang Serai has a wide frontage with a full-height glass facade that lets in plenty of natural light. Inside, the space is broad but not very deep, so most of the seating runs along the walls or faces the front windows. At either end of the café, there are cosy nooks and booth seats.

Penny University at WGS is furnished with an eclectic mix of tables and chairs. Arty posters decorate the walls, and small plants are dotted throughout the space. The overall interior feels more homely than sleek. It has a relaxed atmosphere.

Menu of Penny University

Penny University is a coffee and brunch kind of place. There are assorted cakes and pastries on display at the counters. The menu offers items such Sandwiches, Chia Seeds Smoothie Bowl, Buttermilk Hotcakes, Waffles and Moroccan Baked Egg.

Below are pictures of the menu of Penny University at WGS.

Sandwiches & Eggs

We ordered a Coronation Chicken Sandwich ($18) and the Special Turkish Eggs ($15.50) when we visited Penny University for brunch.

This sandwich had curried chicken, sweet mango chutney, and melted cheese, tucked between slices of well-toasted sourdough. The filling was rich and had a delightful blend of flavours. While it was not particularly exceptional, it made for a satisfying and hearty meal.

The Special Turkish Eggs featured poached eggs, whipped Greek yoghurt, and spicy Moroccan harissa, served with pieces of toasted sourdough. The contrast between the cool yoghurt, warm eggs, and crisp toast made for an interesting and well-balanced dish. It was a satisfying and enjoyable option for brunch.

Coffee & Cake

We also had a Carrot Loaf ($7.50) for our sweet tooth to go along with Ice Long Black ($6) and Miel Muddy ($8).

The carrot cake was moist and tender, with a balanced level of sweetness. Its smooth frosting added contrast in both flavour and texture. Modest in size but enjoyable.

The iced black coffee had a bold, full-bodied flavour — a refreshing strong brew. The ‘Miel Muddy’ offered a creative take on the usual coffee fare, combining a chocolate-infused espresso with coconut honey foam. The result was a pleasing mixture of a robust base and the light, subtly sweet topping. It was an indulgent beverage.

More Reasons to visit Geylang Serai

Penny University at Wisma Geylang Serai adds another reason to visit Geylang Serai outside of the Ramadan and Hari Raya festive periods. While the menu is relatively limited, the cafe offers a varied selection of cakes and pastries. Penny University serves artisanal coffee alongside a range of interesting beverages. It is also one of the few nice cafes that accepts CDC vouchers.

Ratings:
Food: 3
Service: 4
Value: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Overall Rating: 3 TOPs

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Penny University
#01-06, Wisma Geylang Serai
1 Engku Aman Road,
Singapore 409923

Opening Hours:
Tue – Fri: 10 am to 6 pm
Sat & Sun: 8 am to 6 pm
Closed on Monday

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