I walked out of Kovan MRT Exit B on a bright Saturday morning, taking the short stroll down Simon Road to visit Lola’s Cafe Kovan, a popular brunch spot in Singapore. Lola’s Cafe used to be a quiet neighborhood secret, but now it’s a full-blown brunch destination attracting diners from all over the island, especially on Saturdays and Sundays. I arrived around 11:30 am, right as the weekend rush was hitting its absolute peak. The queue outside the glass doors was long, with many party sizes waiting patiently despite the unbearable waiting time.
As someone who has traversed through all the popular brunch spots in Singapore, I find it pertinent to my mission to revisit this beloved cafe by many locals and see if it still holds it end as a legacy in the brunching community.
Delicious Baked Treats Promised by Lola’s Cafe Kovan
While Lola’s Cafe Kovan is well-loved for its savory dishes, one thing that stands out is its limited selection of delicious baked treats. Unlike other cafes that serve fresh breads and sweet pastries that pop with flavor, Lola’s offerings fall short in this department, lacking that bakery aroma that usually fills the space. However, the brunch options more than make up for it.
Freshly Ground Coffee To Complement Your Weekend Cravings
Coffee lovers will appreciate Lola’s focus on freshly ground coffee, with a decent selection of drinks including mocha and matcha latte served to complement the food.
Match Latte Downside
The matcha, however, can sometimes be a bit bitter, lacking the smooth grassy notes that aficionados expect. Still, the polished coffee experience is a definite mood enhancer, especially when paired with breakfast or brunch dishes. The cafe’s house blends are a familiar comfort to many regular diners.
If you’re interested in more perspectives and hidden notes you might not have considered about matcha in Singapore, read more from me at Influencer Foodie.
Buttery Eggs and Popular Dishes That Keep Diners Coming Back
Eggs Benedict and Sourdough Plates
One of the standout features at Lola’s Cafe is the buttery eggs served in various forms, especially in their Eggs Benedict dishes. The eggs are soft and cooked to perfection, often layered with smoked pork or avocado on a toasted sourdough base.
The Pulled Pork & Avocado Eggs Benedict and waffles are frequently mentioned highlights on the menu. The sourdough base in many dishes is soft and fresh, perfectly layered with ingredients such as ham, mushrooms, and buttery eggs.
Honey Paprika Crispy Wings with Tater Tots
Other popular dishes include the Honey Paprika Crispy Wings and loaded Tater Tots, which are perfect for sharing among groups. The prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes, though the crowds and packed space on weekends can make it impossible to get a table without reservations.
Maximum Enjoyment Despite the Crowd and Queue
Despite the hype and sometimes unbearable waiting time, Lola’s Cafe manages to deliver maximum enjoyment for those who visit. The location, ambience, and food all contribute to a polished dining experience that is both familiar and comforting.
The cafe is packed during peak opening hours, especially on weekends and holidays, so planning your visit with reservations or alternative timing such as early weekday mornings can help avoid the queue. The staff efficiently manages the high volume of diners, maintaining good service even when the space is full.
Holland Village: The Second Outlet Bringing Lola’s Cafe Closer to You
For those who find the location of the original Lola’s Cafe Kovan a bit far, the second outlet located in Holland Village offers an alternative timing and space to enjoy the same great food and ambience. This outlet is located just a short walk from Holland Village MRT, making it more accessible.
The ambience here is Scandinavian-inspired with natural light flooding the space, creating a soft and inviting mood. The menu at Holland Village is similar but includes some outlet-exclusive dishes like the Tsukune Sando and Spicy Crab Rigatoni pastas, adding to the variety for diners.
The Verdict: Does Lola’s Cafe Still Live Up To The Hype?
Overall, Lola’s Cafe Kovan remains a beloved brunch restaurant in Singapore, known for its brunch options, drinks, and desserts that keep the crowds coming back. Whether you’re popping in for a quick breakfast or settling in for a leisurely brunch with friends, it’s a spot worth visiting for its highlights and familiar comfort food in a lively, sunlit space.