Here’s a look at Five Oars Coffee Roasters’ new outlet & expanded menu

After a good two-and-a-half-year run, Five Oars Coffee Roasters at Tanjong Pagar closed down in January, and we practised a solid moment of silence for one of our favourite coffee spots. And by “we”, I really mean me. I’ve got so many fond memories at the cafe—work dates, coffee catch-ups, and even conducting an interview there, so it was a sigh of relief when they reopened along 6 Upper East Coast.

Their new space is vastly different from their Tanjong Pagar outlet but equally a treat for the eyes. Their expanded menu is segmented into Day, Night, and Drinks, but the one thing I’m relieved to see still stand is the beloved Mentaiko Mac & Cheese (S$16). That, and a Hot Latte (S$5 for 6oz), and I’m pretty much set for the afternoon, usually.

A creamy, savoury blend, the Mentaiko Mac & Cheese has long been my unfailing go-to, and the first time I shared it with a friend, I really wish I hadn’t. Nowadays, it’s just my staple as a main whenever I find myself drawn to work at Five Oars’ space.

We also gave the Crab Scramble (S$23) a try, which sees housemade sourdough, scrambled eggs, crab meat, avocado, ebiko, feta, and togarashi. It’s a safe and dependable brunch main if you’re ever looking for one, but is half as inspiring as I’d hoped for.

During our visit, waffles were temporarily off the menu, so the Buckwheat Pancakes (S$16) was. Stacked with berries, cookie crumbs, vanilla ice cream, and yuzu curd, it proved to be a cohesive combination that worked—my only gripe was how dense those pancakes were. Go just a tad bit lighter, and they’d be the perfect end to an indulgent afternoon.

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