The month of July sees multiple Toa Payoh closures, including long-standing favourites like Hui Ming Fishball Noodle stall and newer, modern establishments like Thai Taste Restaurant at Caritas Agape Village. The latter is coincidentally a short 2-minute walk from our office building.

This 8-month-old eatery announced last week via Instagram that they’ll be shuttering their outlet at 7A Lorong 8 Toa Payoh on 26 Jul 2025, though no reason was provided.

The post was accompanied by a heartfelt message of gratitude to customers for their support, with a hopeful teaser that this is merely the end of a chapter. They hinted at plans to reopen at a new location in the near future, encouraging fans to stay tuned to their socials for updates once the new location is finalised.
Interestingly, Thai Taste was co-founded by getai performer Wang Lei’s son-in-law, Donavan Ho, together with 2 friends. Though Wang Lei himself wasn’t involved in the business side of things, his power as a live-streaming legend drew crowds, bringing their opening day sales to 5 figures. You could say business really lei-velled up, lol.
Despite its short run, Thai Taste has earned praise among customers for its home-style Thai cooking, clean and comfortable environment (see: air-conditioning) and warm hospitality.

Some highlights here include the Signature Thai Fried Chicken Rice (Cutlet)(S$8.80) that’s hefty and well-marinated, and fragrant Red Tom Yum Soup with Prawns (S$10.80) that’s gently rounded out with a hint of sweetness. A good number of patrons also commended on the generous portions and friendly service, elevating the whole dining experience.
Despite Thai Taste Restaurant’s Toa Payoh closure, it’s not quite goodbye just yet — just sabai sabai for now. Perhaps this is my sign to finally stop by the restaurant I walk past every trip to the hawker centre?
Northern Thai: Delicious ‘creamy’ tom yum by Thai superwoman worth the queue