Steam Sia

Maybe it’s a sign of old age but I’ve come to a point of my life that I would sometimes miss the “good old days” when Singapore was less crowded and life was simpler. When I had lunch at Steam Sia sometime back, it transported me to my childhood era and brought back so many nostalgic feelings.

It’s not hard to spot this place because at the entrance of Steam Sia, you’ll see these memorable items of the yesteryears. I fondly remember playing Pick-Up-Sticks, Lido and Snakes and Ladders as a child in a time before the personal computers were born (unimaginable right?). A lot of the snacks there especially those round white crackers are still my favorites.

True to it’s traditional vibe, the place is ‘kopitiam’ styled with lots of antique toys and memorabilia lining the walls and shelfs.

The children of the 70’s and 80’s would probably recall most of the items here though there are a couple of knick knacks that go way back into my parents times.

This is the type of iron my mother used to tell me about. Where they had to put in heated charcoals in this super heavy iron to iron their school uniforms. I’m so glad that technology has evolved at lightning speed. These days I don’t even use and iron anymore. Most of the time my trusty garment steamer is sufficient.

Super old cameras can also be spotted. I was 12 years old when I took my first trip overseas without any parents. I had to beg and borrow a film camera with promises that I’ll take good care of it. Each shot was precious as there’s no viewing or deleting of photos available. If you took a bad shot, you’ll only know when the film has been developed. It was the time when film came in rolls of 24 or 36 and changing ISO meant changing a whole roll of film. Sometimes after a trip, you’ll be excited to develop the pictures but there are 2-3 more shots left untaken and you’ll randomly ask friends of family to take photos just so you can use up the film and “not waste it”. lol!

I can’t believe they have these phones as displays as well! I’ve had my hands on most of these phones which just goes to show how old I am 🙁

While the whole place is one big distraction, the main attraction here is the food!

To start off, we had the Seafood Stuffed ‘Sailing Boat’ (oven-baked potatoes topped with seafood). I like the texture of the potato skins.

I love Steam Sia’s Nonya Chicken Curry (with potatoes and carrots served with bread).

This dish is one of their signature dishes and a must-try! I love curry chicken and slurped this one up immediately. It’s spicy which makes it even more catered to the local tastebuds. No touristy bland chicken curry for me!

The other must-try dish that I highly recommend in this place is the Steam Sia’s Classic Tom Yum Spaghetti with Seafood (prawns, mussels and mushrooms). I love asian fusion dishes that manages to bring out the best in both worlds. This one has lots of oomph and you won’t regret it!

Next we had the ‘Steam Sia’s Signature Grilled Salmon (with fruit salsa) which is a little more western than asian.

Crispy outside with a nice pink tender inside, this grilled salmon was pretty well done and is a good selection for those who want to stay away from any spices.

I had such a good lunch that afternoon and will be back for more spices!

I’m also going to order the Raisin Float again! It’s basically Mövenpick Rum & Raisin Ice-cream served with Coke and the perfect compliment to all the spicy dishes!

My 1970s lace dress blended seamlessly into the whole restaurant feel! How coincidentally apt!

For your next food hunt, you can try Steam Sia at 5 Hindoo Road Singapore 209107. Call them for reservations at 6396 6585.

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Outfit of the day

I have always been into vintage outfits because it’s hard to find good quality sewing and laces on mass produced clothes these days. The trick is trying to incorporate them into my daily outfits with a more modern feel to it so that it’ll still be presentable for my contemporary lifestyle.

Dress: Dustbunny

Earrings: Chanel

Bag: Hermes

Heel: Louis Vuitton