I ate the best meal at a Masterchef's home café?!
💰 Price: $35 nett/person
I recently came across a home cafe run by MasterChef Singapore season 4 contestant, Reuben! That was the only season of Masterchef Singapore that I watched every episode of, and so when I found out that I had the opportunity to try Reuben's food, i knew I had to try it out for myself!!
Initially, I expected the prices to be steep, as most private dining experiences are. But I was so pleasantly surprised to know that it was only $35 nett per person for a 3 course meal!
His home cafe, Anthèse, only takes guests once a month, so make sure you make your reservations early! The menu changes every month as well, but you can stay updated and make your reservations via Instagram @anthesesg.
What I loved the most:
🍅 The food was AMAZING. Literally every course was flavorful and unique. I was especially excited to try the vegetable forward courses like the salad and the whipped miso tofu because of Reuben's vegetable king reputation and they did not disappoint. My favourite has to be the whipped miso tofu with the tostada - it was savoury and smooth, and the fried laksa leaves on top made it so fragrant. For $35, you're getting food that is creative and of fine dining restaurant quality, super worth!!
🌾Was a bit nervous about being in a home cafe because it's a bunch of strangers in an enclosed space. But everyone was so nice, and the environment was so clean and cozy. I appreciated that he didn't try to squeeze as many people in one seating, so it was definitely comfortable. Reuben is also so nice, and explained every course to us in detail. I felt that added so much to the experience.
🚗 It's quite easy to get there as it was only a 5 minutes walk from Boon Keng MRT. One huge perk is also that there are many other great home cafes around there, so you can get your matcha / coffee fix after that as well!!
Overall, the experience was 20/10 and I would definitely go back again. It was so nice to see how passionate he was about food, and it truly comes through in his cooking. Getting a spot was so hard though because he's booked out very quickly, so I'd say book first think later!! 😛
Having had the chance to dine at Anthèse, I can honestly say that the monthly changing menu keeps the experience fresh and exciting—each visit feels like a new culinary journey. The whipped miso tofu tostada remains a standout flavor combination, with its smooth texture and aromatic fried laksa leaves elevating the dish beyond expectation. I also appreciated the effort put into creating vegetable-forward dishes that feel both healthy and indulgent. Reuben’s friendly explanations about each course added a personal touch that made the meal even more enjoyable. Despite initial worries about sharing a home space with strangers, the atmosphere was welcoming and relaxed, with ample spacing that ensured comfort throughout the meal. Located just 5 minutes from Boon Keng MRT, Anthèse is conveniently accessible. Plus, the surrounding neighborhood has plenty of wonderful home cafés and spots to enjoy matcha or coffee afterward. Booking early is key, as seats fill quickly due to its exclusivity and popularity. For anyone looking for affordable fine dining and a unique home café experience in Singapore, Anthèse is definitely worth the visit.
