Wild Honey at Mandarin Gallery is a must-visit restaurant in the heart of Singapore’s brunch spots scene. Located just a stone’s throw from the bustling Orchard Road, this cafe has built a massive reputation for its globally inspired menu and superb ambience. On a recent trip, I explored their extensive brunch menu to see if it still deserves the hype.
I arrived on a Tuesday morning around 10:30 AM, during their opening hours. The floor-to-ceiling windows let in beautiful natural light, creating a warm Brooklyn loft style ambience accentuated by the copper and wood bar. The air conditioning was strong, so bring a light jacket if you plan to settle in for a while.
Wild Honey: Delicious Dishes and Great Coffee
The Wild Honey menu acts like a passport of breakfast classics, serving dishes that suit a variety of tastes including vegetarian options. We mixed comforting classics with their famous savory dishes.
Tunisian Shakshuka ($30): This dish is an indulgence worth trying. Served bubbling hot in a cast iron pan, the rich tomato sauce has a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with smoky chorizo. The thick signature brioche toast is perfect for dipping into the runny baked eggs.
The Norwegian ($32): A standout eggs benedict dish with flawlessly poached eggs and creamy hollandaise sauce. The smoked salmon is fresh and generously portioned, served on rustic bread that complements the flavors superbly.
Canadian Pancakes ($26): These thick, fluffy pancakes soaked in sweet maple syrup satisfy any sweet tooth craving. Food wise, this dish balances sweet and savory perfectly.
The cafe also offers great coffee and drinks to accompany your meal, rounding out a satisfying day breakfast experience.
Atmosphere and Service
The staff made the bustling dining room feel incredibly welcoming. Servers like Danish and Raf were attentive without hovering. They anticipated when we needed coffee refills and cleared our plates promptly. The space was quite clean, and the tables were wiped down thoroughly between guests.
The Honest Downsides
The experience is not entirely perfect. The prices sit on the higher end for a casual morning meal. You are definitely paying for the Orchard Road rent.
We also encountered their strict 90 minute seating limit. It feels a bit rushed when you are spending over forty dollars a person and just want to catch up with a friend over coffee. The wait times can also be brutal if you show up as a walk in on a Sunday afternoon.
Despite a few of its fumbles, Wild Honey answered the question I was asking: Yes, they still deserve the hype, and that’s just for the Tunisian Shakshuka alone.
Day Breakfast Alternatives: Spots That Precede Wild Honey
Plain Vanilla Bakery: A Stone’s Throw Away for Sweet Treats
If you miss a good bakery stop, Plain Vanilla is located just a stone’s throw from Wild Honey. This bakery store is known for its straightforward, hearty bakes including cakes, toast, and sandwiches. The ambience is cozy, and the counter service is efficient. It’s an excellent spot to grab a coffee and indulge in some freshly baked goods, perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon break during your brunch journey around the island.
Atlas Coffeehouse: Brunch and Coffee on Upper Thomson Road
For those who want to explore beyond Orchard Road, Atlas Coffeehouse on Upper Thomson Road is a must visit. This cafe attracts crowds for its affordable prices and straightforward menu, offering everything from breakfast burgers to pasta and waffles. The space is cozy yet lively, making it a great spot to gather with friends or a couple looking for a relaxed brunch.
For more tips on how to brunch responsibly, check out our guide to brunching without paying the weekend tax.
Bottom Line: Is Wild Honey Still Worth the Trip for Brunch in Singapore?
Wild Honey remains a top choice for anyone seeking an elevated brunch experience in Singapore. Food wise, their dishes are delicious and beautifully executed, making it a great spot for special occasions or weekend indulgence. If you’re looking for alternatives with affordable prices and excellent coffee, Plain Vanilla and Atlas Coffeehouse are excellent options to explore on your brunch journey.
Whether you want to eat breakfast, lunch, or just enjoy a superb cafe atmosphere, these places offer a variety of dishes and drinks to suit different styles and budgets. Don’t miss out on the vibrant brunch spots that continues to attract locals and visitors alike in this island city. Check each restaurant’s website for opening hours and reservation details to make the most of your visit.
See you at the next brunch!