The buzz: We’ve long been fans of Violet Oon and her cookbooks, so excuse us for being particularly excited about her new restaurant along Bukit Timah Road.

The vibe: This black-and-white establishment is homey and welcoming, with subtle touches like framed traditional Peranakan mosaic tiles that hint at Oon’s heritage.

The food: As you’d expect from the doyenne of Nyonya cuisine, full-flavored classics like ayam buah keluak ($22), beef rendang ($23) and fish tempra ($20) put up a strong showing; all served with rice, salad and more importantly, homemade, potent sambal belachan (even if you’re not a fan of spicy food, give it a go). There are also local-inspired dishes to be had including pasta-style dry mee siam ($21), hay bee hiam panini ($16) and bubor cha cha panna cotta ($10), as well as Western items like shepherd’s pie ($17) that don’t disappoint either.

The drinks: There’s a short list of wines (house red starts at $12/glass), but it’s the specialty fruit sodas such as a most refreshing passion fruit-citrus ($7) to cool your burning tongue on that have our vote.

Why you’ll be back: We’ll admit, it’s a bit of a trek unless you live in the area, but the delish fare and warm ambiance make it well worth the trip.

Eat this at Violet Oon's Kitchen: Corned beef hash. It's one of I-S Magazine's 50 things to eat before you die (2013).

Book a table at Violet Oon's Kitchen with Chope