Nothing hits the spot quite like a classic Nanyang breakfast. The rich aroma of kopi, the golden crunch of kaya toast, the perfectly soft-boiled eggs – it’s a morning ritual that has fuelled generations and generations of Singaporeans!
Now, thanks to the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC), you can experience the history and evolution of this beloved breakfast through The Nanyang Breakfast Club: Let’s Lim Kopi, Jiak Roti, a travelling exhibition that just launched at SingPost Centre.
This is an SG60 celebration of culture, tradition, and the kopitiams that have long been a part of Singapore’s morning routine. Visitors will get an immersive look at how this breakfast staple has shaped the way Singaporeans eat, connect, and start their day.
And guess what? The exhibition is going on tour! There’s plenty of time to join the club as it makes its way across malls, schools, and libraries all the way till the end of November 2025.
The Nanyang Breakfast Club: Let’s Lim Kopi, Jiak Roti
Originally pioneered by the Hainanese, the Nanyang breakfast we know and love today was influenced by Chinese, Malay, Peranakan, and even Western culinary traditions. And the result is a unique fusion that’ll always feel (and taste) nostalgic.
It all starts with the essentials – crispy grilled toast slathered with kaya and butter, two soft-boiled eggs with a drizzle of soy sauce and white pepper, and a steaming cup of kopi.
But this exhibition goes beyond the plate. The Nanyang Breakfast Club: Let’s Lim Kopi, Jiak Roti dives into the role of kopitiams as communal hubs, where neighbours, friends, and even strangers gather over breakfast to share stories and laughter.
These coffee shops have stood the test of time, bridging generations and cultures in a way few other places can. Through various displays and interactive storytelling, you can step into the past and appreciate the significance of these spaces at this exhibition!
While the traditional Nanyang breakfast has remained a constant, it has also adapted with the times. No longer confined to old-school kopitiams, you’ll find it at modern cafés, hawker centres, and even airport lounges. One thing is clear – this breakfast has become synonymous with Singapore’s food culture, loved by locals and tourists alike.
Join the Club!
So, if you love learning about Singapore’s rich food heritage or are simply a fan of kaya toast and kopi, this exhibition is calling your name!
For more details on exhibition dates and locations, check out the official page for The Nanyang Breakfast Club: Let’s Lim Kopi, Jiak Roti and follow the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre’s socials on Facebook and Instagram!
Cover Photo Courtesy of Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre.
