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Shaw Plaza, Balestier’s neighbourhood mall, has been the topic of much discussion among residents in recent weeks. 2 popular F&B establishments — Mui Kee and Picolino — have shuttered temporarily, leaving many puzzled but not entirely surprised. What’s more telling is that both restaurants are part of the prestigious Les Amis Group.
Mui Kee Balestier, known for its velvety Cantonese-style congee, suddenly announced that it would be closed “until further notice”, according to a sign spotted at the storefront. Surprisingly, it wasn’t announced through the brand’s official social channels.
Likewise, Picolino, an Italian bistro tucked just a few units away, quietly shut its doors earlier this month without much hoo-ha. Both restaurants were launched with much anticipation during Shaw Plaza’s post-renovation revival in 2023, but it seems that initial excitement has waned.
These closures give an insight into changing hyperlocal consumer behaviour.
For starters, the mall is facing stiff competition from food options in the area. With Balestier’s rows of shophouse bak kut teh and the rise of trendy cafes and kopitiam-style joints nearby, even well-known brands struggle to stand out. Diners are spoilt for choice and in an area where good food can be found at wallet-friendly prices, and value-for-money becomes a make-or-break factor.
This was especially apparent in the online response to Mui Kee’s closure. A Facebook post in a local food group announcing the news quickly attracted over 90 comments in 2 days, many of which were brutally honest.
Users called the congee spot overpriced and overhyped, with some remarking they were “surprised they lasted so long”. These reactions reflect a deeper sentiment amongst customers that the restaurant may not have lived up to expectations, especially in a price-sensitive neighbourhood like Balestier.
Despite their Shaw Plaza closures, both Mui Kee and Picolino continue to operate from Shaw Centre in Orchard, where footfall is higher and customers may be more receptive to their price points and concepts. Their continued presence there suggests this isn’t a brand-wide issue, but rather a location-specific complication.
We look forward to seeing what’s next for Shaw Plaza — perhaps a refresh of tenants, or the return of familiar names with a better fit for the neighbourhood crowd?
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