#FOOD

Bring Back the Feels (and the Flavours) at These Nostalgic Eateries

Visit these homegrown establishments for some classic nosh and feel-good times

By Sean Tan        16 October 2025

There’s something about food that does more than just fill the stomach – it takes us back in time. The first birthday party at Swensen’s, a simple morning treat at Ya Kun Kaya Toast, or family dinners at Jack’s Place – these places aren’t just restaurants, they’re memory-makers. And for many NSmen, they were the backdrop of growing up years, first dates, or celebratory meals. Today, thanks to SAFRA promotions, these beloved names are still here to serve up comfort food and familiar vibes – at even friendlier prices.

Jack’s Place: The Family Steakhouse We Grew Up With 

SAFRA Punggol Jack's Place

For generations, Jack’s Place has been synonymous with affordable Western fare and sizzling steaks served on hot plates. Many of us remember peeking at the quirky cartoon menus while waiting for our meals, or the simple joy of garlic bread paired with cream soup. At its heart, Jack’s Place is about family dining done right – and it hasn’t lost its charm. SAFRA members can enjoy exclusive dining perks here, making it the perfect excuse to gather loved ones for a hearty throwback meal. 

Must-tries: Jack’s Special Steak and other tenderloin steaks; Sizzling Chicken Steak; Hainanese Oxtail Stew and Lobster Bisque. For the kids, they can order comforting favourites like the Classic Fried Rice and Chicken Cutlet. 

Jack’s Place is located at SAFRA Punggol, #01-01 and SAFRA Jurong, #2A-01 

SAFRA Members can enjoy a 10% discount on orders at Jack’s Place outlets at SAFRA Punggol and SAFRA Jurong. From now till 14 November 2025, SAFRA members can also use $50 LifeSG credits to receive a complimentary $10 Return Voucher for use during your next visit. Terms and conditions apply. 

Click here for more information.


Ya Kun Kaya Toast: The Toast That Binds Across Generations

SAFRA Toa Payoh Ya Kun Kaya Toast

Since 1944, this cherished kopitiam-style café has been serving up simple but unforgettable fare – crunchy kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and robust kopi. For many NSmen, weekends began here; first dates started over kaya toast; chats with parents over breakfast always seemed better here. At SAFRA Toa Payoh, Ya Kun brings nostalgia full circle – with flavours just like those from decades past, and a place that still feels like home. Thanks to the SAFRA member benefit, you get 10% off all listed menu prices – so it’s easier than ever to revisit a classic. Whether you drop by for a morning toast and coffee, or gather with old friends over the toastwich specials, Ya Kun makes it possible to relive those “good old days” without breaking the budget. 

Must-tries: Nothing beats the best combi of their signature kaya toast, paired with soft-boiled eggs and washed down with a soothing cup of their fragrant kopi! 

Ya Kun Kaya Toast is located at SAFRA Toa Payoh, #01-01 

SAFRA members can enjoy 10% off all listed menu prices for F&B purchases. 

Click here for more information.


Swensen’s: Where Every Occasion Becomes a Sundae Celebration 

Swensen's SAFRA Toa Payoh 2

Few places spark as much nostalgia as Swensen’s. From sizzling skillets to those towering Earthquake sundaes, it was the go-to spot for birthdays, post-NS runs, or just hanging out with friends. Its colourful booths and ice cream counter remain iconic, while the menu has grown to blend the old with the new. SAFRA members can once again dig into their favourite sundaes or family platters – with promotions that make celebrations sweeter without stretching the wallet. 

Must-tries: You cannot go wrong with their classics like Fish ‘N’ Chips and Chicken Baked Rice, but be sure to try out their new creation, the UFO Burgers, available in three different flavours. Of course, the meal is not done without a helping to one of their iconic sundae scoops! 

Swensen’s is located at SAFRA Toa Payoh, #01-05 

SAFRA members can enjoy 10% off total bill at Swensen’s at SAFRA Toa Payoh. From now till 30 November 2025, all SAFRA members and NSmen with 11B can also enjoy Swensen’s Earthquake Sundae at $5 off at any Swensen’s outlet. Terms and conditions apply. 

Click here for more information. 


Old Habits: Retro Café with a Curated Twist 

SAFRA Mount Faber Old Habits

For something that combines nostalgia with discovery, Old Habits is a hidden gem. Part café, part vintage store, it serves hearty comfort food alongside shelves of collectibles and retro knick-knacks that transport you back to your childhood. Dining here is more than just a meal – it’s a trip through time. And with SAFRA deals, it’s a quirky but affordable outing for NSmen who want to share the stories of “back in the day” with their friends or families. 

Must-tries: Simply Salmon and for spice lovers the Belachan chilli Aglio Olio-style pasta, topped with a juicy salmon fillet will hit the spot. Seasalt Caramel Roast Chicken is another signature which is tender and juicy. For desserts, go for the nostalgic Old Habits Coconut Kueh which comes topped with a scoop of old-school vanilla ice-cream. 

Old Habits is located at SAFRA Mount Faber, #01-04 

SAFRA members can receive 10% off all food and drinks. Terms and conditions apply.  

Click here for more information.


More Than a Meal, It’s a Memory 

These eateries may have evolved with the times, but they remain rooted in the flavours and feelings that made them beloved in the first place. For NSmen, it’s not just about food – it’s about revisiting the milestones, friendships, and family moments tied to these places. With SAFRA promotions, there’s never been a better reason to relive those memories and create new ones. 

So the next time you’re looking for a meal that brings back the feels, skip the new café trends and head back to these old favourites. Sometimes, the best flavours are the ones that never really left. 


Other than these deals, SAFRA members can also enjoy a wide range of other F&B benefits. Visit http://www.safra.sg/promotions for other F&B promotions. 

Not yet a member? Sign up atm.safra or theSAFRA mobile app, or visit ourmembership sign-up page on the website now!