A Taste of Peranakan Heritage: Our Visit to True Blue Cuisine
During our recent trip to Singapore, we decided to indulge in an authentic Peranakan dining experience at True Blue Cuisine. Located on Armenian Street, right beside the Peranakan Museum, this restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a portal into the vibrant and intricate world of Peranakan culture.
Stepping Back in Time
From the moment we entered, we felt transported. The interior of True Blue Cuisine is a stunning homage to Peranakan heritage, with intricate designs, traditional furniture, and vintage décor that make it feel more like a grand Peranakan home than a restaurant. Adding to the ambiance, live piano music played softly in the background, enhancing the old-world charm of the space.
Warm Hospitality and Thoughtful Service
The service was as warm and welcoming as the décor. An older lady, possibly the owner or a longtime staff member, quickly came over to guide us through the menu, ensuring we got a taste of their specialities. Throughout our meal, the attentive waitstaff kept our cups of fragrant longan tea filled to the brim and took the time to explain the significance of each dish, particularly the ayam buah keluak, a Peranakan delicacy.
A Feast of Flavours
Every dish we tried was a delight, making for a perfect introduction to Peranakan cuisine. Here’s what we ordered:
Kueh Pie Tee – Crispy pastry cups filled with a savoury mixture of turnip and prawns, topped with a punchy chilli sauce. A perfect appetiser to start the meal.
Kachang Lendir – A unique okra dish with a thick, flavourful sauce. The okra was beautifully cooked, retaining its slight crunch while being coated in a rich, silky gravy.
Sotong Sambal – Tender squid in a spicy, aromatic sambal sauce, packing a fiery kick.
Beef Rendang – Incredibly tender and deeply flavoured, this dish stood out for its rich, coconut-infused gravy. A true highlight of the meal.
Ayam Buah Keluak – The most intriguing dish of the evening, featuring chicken stewed with buah keluak nuts, which had a bold, earthy flavour reminiscent of tapenade. The slightly bitter, nutty taste and almost addictive texture made it an unforgettable experience.
A Meal to Remember
This meal was one of the highlights of our trip, and we were so glad we decided to splurge on it. The combination of exquisite flavours, a beautifully curated setting, and impeccable service made it truly special. While we didn’t get the chance to visit the Peranakan Museum this time, we spent the morning exploring Katong, soaking in the colourful shophouses and Peranakan heritage of the neighbourhood.
Would we return? Absolutely. The next time we’re in Singapore, we’ll be back at True Blue Cuisine—perhaps after a visit to the Peranakan Museum to complete the experience.
