Rachel Ooi
Kungfu Paradise is a haven for young (or young-at-heart) thrifty food lovers. This East-Meets-West café may seem intimidating at first glance with its swanky-looking interior but is in fact easy on the pocket.
Located at the entrance of Bedok Point – yet another garden-variety heartland mall – this cozy café could easily pass off as just another Xin Wang Hong Kong café outlet. But look closely and you’ll notice that the casual and warm vibes position it as the go-to place for an intimate meal with friends and family.
During their indefinite lunch special on weekdays (11am – 2.30pm), bargain hunters get to enjoy Kungfu Paradise’s bestsellers at a promotional price of $6.80. This perk is extended for students till 5pm and they get a dollar off the already-discounted price.
What stands out is the extensive menu with a wide selection of Hong Kong-style dishes and dim sum, Asian-infused flavours, and Western classics. Any customer would be spoilt for choice.
One of their must-try dishes is the Be Hooked! – Fish & Chips ($9.80). The fish is superbly fresh and well-cooked with a good blend of herbs; two qualities which chefs usually overlook when preparing this simple dish.
For daredevils who have a high threshold for spice, the Flaming Crab Pasta ($10.80) poses a fiery challenge. Fragrant and piquant, this dish is similar to the usual chilli crab, albeit at a cheaper price. However, I was hoping for more crabmeat but since the dish is considered a steal, I shan’t complain.
Likewise, the seductive crispy golden brown appearance of the Flying Kungfu Wings ($5.80 per serving of 3) makes them look mouth-watering but unfortunately, it didn’t take off (pun intended) as I expected. The wings turned out ordinary.
For desserts, try the delectable Green Tea Shaved Ice ($6.80). It is a pleasurable, sinless treat compared to a cloying scoop of flavored ice-cream as it is not too sweet. In addition, the texture of the shaved ice is silky and it instantly melts in your mouth.
I also recommend the French Toast with Chicken Floss & Condensed Milk ($5.80) which seems like the staple food for most Hong-Kong cafes (or cha chan teng) but the one here is pretty decent if you need your French-Toast fix.
Mr Edlan Chua, the Chief Operating Officer of Paradise Group, reveals that Kungfu Paradise outlets will sprout across the island within this year so look out for more hearty communal fare targeted at price-conscious families and youths.
This new eatery is definitely conducive for an unmitigated good time.
Address: 799 New Changi Road, #01-01 Bedok Point S467351
Opening Hours: Mon – Thur: 11am to 2am (Last order at 1.15am)
Fri – Sun/Eve of PH & PH: 11am to 4am (Last order at 3.15am)
Rating: ★★★☆☆