Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen

With the recent buzz surrounding The Little Nyonya and its Emerald Hill Show, there’s been a noticeable resurgence of interest in all things Peranakan from traditional costumes to their rich, flavorful cuisine. Riding this cultural wave, we found ourselves craving a taste of heritage and headed to Joo Chiat, a neighborhood well-known for its Peranakan roots and vibrant food scene. While our first choice of restaurant was packed, we eventually settled on Old Bibik’s a humble spot that turned out to be a worthy alternative.

Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen

The interior was simple and unpretentious. It featured traditional round tables paired with classic wooden stools that echoed the charm of old-school Peranakan dining.

Interior and Dining Area

I started with the homemade honey butterfly pea tea,  a vibrant, refreshing drink with a subtle floral note and just the right touch of sweetness. It was a delightful way to ease into the meal.

Homemade Honey Butterfly Pea Tea - $6

While waiting for our dishes to arrive, we nibbled on crackers dipped in belachan chilli, a satisfyingly crunchy snack with a bold, umami kick. It was a great way to whet our appetites.

Keropok

The Crispy Chinchalok Omelette arrived generously sized and perfectly golden, with a side of chinchalok for dipping, adding a punchy, fermented tang that made each bite even more satisfying.

Crispy Chinchalok Omelette (Deep Fried) - $18

Their Ayam Buah Keluak was served without the signature nut, but the rich, earthy dark sauce still delivered on depth and flavor, perfect for spooning over a warm plate of rice. The dish’s naturally dark brown appearance was brightened up with a generous topping of fresh Chinese parsley, adding a touch of color and freshness to the presentation.

Ayam Buah Keluak - $17 

We also had a comforting bowl of Nyonya Chap Chye, a classic mixed vegetable stew that's a staple in many Peranakan households. This version came brimming with cabbage, black fungus, carrots, and beancurd skin, all gently braised in a light, savoury broth. What stood out was the generous topping of crispy beancurd sheets that added a delightful crunch to each mouthful. Garnished with a sprig of Chinese parsley, the dish was both hearty and well-balanced, offering a nice contrast of textures and a subtle sweetness from the stewed vegetables.

Nyonya Chap Chye - $13 

To round off the meal, we shared a warm and hearty bowl of Itek Tim, a traditional Peranakan salted vegetable duck soup. The broth was tangy and appetising, thanks to the combination of salted mustard greens, tomatoes, and sour plums, all slow-simmered with tender duck pieces. Each spoonful was comforting, with just the right balance of sourness and depth from the duck, making it the perfect counterpoint to the richer dishes we had earlier. A classic, no-frills comfort soup that brought everything together beautifully.

Itek Tim Soup - $18 

Please note that the pricing of the dishes mentioned above is based on portions suitable for 1-2 pax. We were truly satisfied with our meal here at Old Bibik’s Peranakan Kitchen. The flavours were authentic, the dishes generous, and the overall dining experience warm and inviting. Every bite reflected the rich heritage and care put into Peranakan cuisine, making it a memorable meal well worth the price. If you are looking to enjoy traditional Peranakan food in a cosy setting, Old Bibik’s is definitely a place to consider.

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen
Location: 328 Joo Chiat Rd, #01-02, Singapore 427585