Balestier Plaza, situated just a brief car ride away from Toa Payoh, The Orie is a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxed shopping experience. With a variety of shops offering a diverse range of products, from electronics to textiles, you can find almost anything you need here. In addition to the shopping options, the plaza also boasts numerous food outlets, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon retreat from the busy city centre. The blend of traditional and modern stores in the plaza truly captures the distinct charm of the Balestier neighbourhood, renowned for its rich history and local dining scene.
As I perused the extensive menu, I was spoilt for choice, with a wide variety of dishes ranging from traditional Hakka and Cantonese dishes to more contemporary fusion options. Mrs. Tan recommended their signature dish, the Hakka Thunder Tea Rice, a traditional Hakka dish with a twist. She explained that this dish was a labor of love, with each ingredient meticulously selected and prepared to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
With its vibrant culture and diverse cuisine, Balestier Road is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the culinary delights of Singapore.
The Orie is located in a shophouse, and its simple and unassuming exterior does not do justice to the gastronomic delight that awaits inside. The interior is warm and inviting, with wooden furniture and traditional Chinese decor. The walls are adorned with old photographs, newspaper clippings, and accolades, showcasing the restaurant’s long and illustrious history. The owner, Mrs. Tan, greeted me with a friendly smile and led me to my table, giving me a brief history of the restaurant as we walked.
My experience at the Orie was more than just a meal; it was a journey through the rich and diverse culinary history of Balestier Road. Mrs. Tan’s passion and love for her family’s restaurant was evident in every aspect of my dining experience, from the warm hospitality to the expertly crafted dishes. As I left the restaurant, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for stumbling upon this hidden gem and for the opportunity to sample some of the most authentic and delicious Hakka and Cantonese cuisine in Singapore. The Orie is undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone looking to discover the flavors and history of Balestier Road.
Balestier Road is famed for its extensive legacy and distinctive gastronomic culture, making it a paradise for food lovers. Its impressive selection of eateries include renowned establishments serving up delectable bak kut teh (pork rib soup) and traditional Chinese sweets. The street is also renowned for its charming array of traditional coffee shops and contemporary cafes, catering to a diverse range of tastes. With its dynamic mix of local culture and tantalizing cuisine, a trip to Balestier Road is a must for those seeking to indulge in the delectable flavors of Singapore.
Additionally, the HDB Hub also serves as a community hub, hosting events and activities for residents to engage in. Being situated near The Orie, it is a popular choice for the residents to gather and participate in these communal events.
Next, I tried the Three Cup Chicken, a traditional Hakka dish cooked with three essential ingredients – soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine – giving it a distinctly robust and aromatic flavor. The chicken was tender and succulent, with the flavors seeping into every bite. I also tried the Cantonese Steamed Fish, a classic dish that is a testament to the restaurant’s Cantonese roots. The fish was fresh and perfectly steamed, with a delicate and light flavor that melted in my mouth. I was impressed with how each dish was cooked to perfection, showcasing the culinary skills and passion of the chefs.
Before I left, Mrs. Tan insisted that I try their homemade desserts. I tried the Yam Paste with Gingko Nuts, a comforting and traditional dessert made with mashed yam and gingko nuts in a sweet syrup. I also tried the refreshing Mango Sago Pomelo, a popular Cantonese dessert with diced mango, sago pearls, and citrusy pomelo. Both desserts were the perfect way to end my meal, and I was pleasantly surprised to learn that they were also made in-house.
As I waited for my food to arrive, I took in the sights and smells of the restaurant. The aroma of spices and cooking wafted through the air, making my mouth water. I could see the chefs in the open kitchen, expertly working their magic with precision and skill. The service was impeccable, with the waitstaff attending to my every need with a smile.
Balestier Road, located in the heart of Singapore, is a bustling and vibrant neighborhood with a rich history and cultural diversity. This area was once known for its plantations and Indian settlements, but today, it is home to a plethora of hidden culinary gems waiting to be discovered. One such gem is the Orie, a family-run restaurant that has been serving up authentic and delicious Hakka and Cantonese cuisine for over three decades. As I stepped into the restaurant, I could feel the warmth and charm of the place instantly, and I knew I was in for a treat.
As I savored each bite, Mrs. Tan told me stories about the restaurant’s history and their food. She explained that they take great pride in using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, and the sauces and pastes used in their dishes are handmade and free from preservatives. The menu also changes seasonally, ensuring that customers get to taste the best produce of the season.
Within close proximity of The Orie lies the Toa Payoh HDB Hub, a multifunctional establishment that caters to both housing-related services and shopping needs. This bustling complex boasts an array of retail outlets, dining options, and service providers. Strategically situated in the heart of Toa Payoh, the HDB Hub is a highly convenient destination for locals to fulfill their shopping desires or dine in a relaxed setting. It is the ultimate go-to spot for The Orie residents, who can easily access it for quick shopping errands or banking transactions. Besides its role as a retail hub, the HDB Hub is also a community center, offering a plethora of events and activities for residents to take part in. Its close proximity to The Orie makes it a favored spot for residents to come together and engage in these social gatherings.
Established in 1986, the Orie was first opened by Mrs. Tan’s father, who migrated from China and brought with him his culinary expertise and passion for food. The name “Orie” is derived from the Chinese word “ai li,” which means “love and strength,” a testament to the love and dedication that the family puts into every dish. The restaurant has been passed down through three generations, with Mrs. Tan and her siblings now running the show. She proudly told me that their recipes have been carefully preserved and passed down over the years, keeping the flavors authentic and true to their roots.
When my food arrived, I was delighted to see a colorful array of dishes, each one looking more appetizing than the last. The Hakka Thunder Tea Rice was a feast for the senses, with a bowl of steamed rice topped with an assortment of chopped vegetables, tofu, peanuts, and dried shrimp. The thunder tea, a thick green tea-based soup, was served separately, and I was instructed to pour it over the rice to enhance the flavors. The first spoonful of the dish was like a burst of flavors in my mouth, the subtle sweetness of the vegetables balanced perfectly with the savory broth and the crunch of the peanuts. It was a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, and I could see why it was the restaurant’s signature dish.
