Step into the Past with 5 the Moments

The picturesque streets in Tanjong Pagar serve to be home to many cafes and restaurants, and here within the cluster situates 5 the Moments Café. Transparent glass doors beckon passers-by in, and it was the vintage themed interior that had captured my attention.

5 the Moments has an eclectic mix of anachronisms, from vintage items scoured from America and Europe to familiar antiques of the Asian culture. While a large vinyl disc record, classic Victorian photo frames, and an old-fashioned camera seemed to transport me back in time, it was the antique salon chair and dated typewriter on display that held the strongest impression. Obsolete television set and rusted lattice window frame, reminiscent of my grandmother’s house, add a nostalgic touch to this quaint café. Moreover, the seating area is filled with a mixture of rattan chairs, antiquated armchairs and tables, adding onto the nostalgia charm. Meanwhile, the five titular moments are explained in the wall art: ceremony, love, art, life, and emotion – a simple name yet holding deep thoughts.

After my order was taken, I took my time to immerse in the riveting view of the café with all its hidden treasures and trinkets. It is rather fascinating that a wheel of light, perhaps fashioned from an old bicycle, is the pivot that unwinds three wires of miniature bulbs; fairy lights spanning across the entire café illuminate the place with a warm orange glow. Another pleasant surprise was the table that I was seated at, it is reused and remodelled from Raleigh’s old family style sewing machine. While the sewing machine itself has been removed, the spinning wheel is still very much intact and working. Lastly, flower bouquets of dried Baby Breaths and Scalavender adorn the café, completing the place with a rustic ambiance.

My food order – Charcoal waffle with a scoop of Earl Grey Gelato served on a wooden pan – had looked aesthetically appealing. The Charcoal waffle, infused with bamboo charcoal, had a flavoursome buttery taste. Although the dark coloured waffle would be perceived by some to look daunting, it was rather delectable, an especially toothsome treat for dessert lovers. Crunchy on the outside yet soft on the inside, the waffle had a fragrant taste when further coupled with the Earl Grey Gelato. Meanwhile, the ice-cream itself was in rich in flavour, with strong notes of the black tea base. Smooth and velvety, it was a delightful treat to have by itself too. When drizzled with caramel syrup, the slight sweetness had provided a balanced tone to the strong flavour of the Earl Grey tea. Overall, the Charcoal Waffle with Gelato was a unique and ambrosial dish, indeed what the café is renowned for.

The café prides itself on its beverages as well, from coffee, homemade coolers to beers, and its specialty Affogato Bar. I had then selected cold Mocha with a dash of vanilla syrup; the coffee served in the café is guaranteed of being brewed from 100% Arabica beans and served medium roasted bold. I was not disappointed at all – my mocha was a refreshing drink with strong earthy tone of the coffee beans. While the drink was smooth down the throat, the taste might be harsh for some as the flavour of chocolate was faint and provided little saccharinity. Personally, I had find that my drink was rich and piquant, and it had fitted my palate perfectly for a lazy afternoon dessert.

5 the Moments is a unique café with its dedicated curation of antiques and collector’s goods. From mains to desserts and beverages, the café provides a savoury meal at any time of the day. Moreover, with a spacious interior and peculiar décor, patrons can experience a trip down the memory lane while enjoying a hearty meal.