Veggie Cottage - Little India

Those with a good memory will know I reviewed Veggie Cottage back in April 2013 (review HERE) when the cafe was just a few weeks old.  In that review, I made a vow that I would return once again, a few months later, to see how this charming little eatery has evolved and matured.  Dietary wise, take note that this cafe is 100% vegan.  However, onion and garlic are present in some of the Western dishes.


Veggie Cottage
Location: 13 Dalhousie Lane
Contact: 67856771
Opening Hours: Tue-Sat 11am-8.45pm, Sunday 11am-4pm. Closed Monday.

As I've mentioned in the past, the interior of this cafe provides without question one of the best eatery ambiances that I've experienced in Singapore.  A blackboard is placed inside (there is one outside too) which states what dishes are available on that particular day.  There is no guarantee what dishes will be available that day.  If you're going there to try a particular dish, then it is probably best to call ahead and ensure they are selling it that day.

These are some delicious complementary cookies that were served to us upon sitting down.  These cookies (like everything at Veggie Cottage) are 100% vegan.
The first dish to arrive to our table was the Mongolian Dumpling Soup.  I can't say I'm an expert on Mongolian cuisine, but I am sure this dish is quite authentic - As the recipe was given by someone from Mongolia apparantly.  Dumplings are not really my thing, but overall I did find these quite enjoyble.  The texture of the dumpling skin is what is so vital.  Often poorly made dumplings either have a skin that is too tough and rubbery.  Or, on the opposite end of the scale, it is too doughy and soft, and end up sticking to each other.  The soup flavour was refreshing.  I especially love the sweet dark sauce, that was served along with it.

Price: $4.00.     7/10

Having previously visited Veggie Cottage on two occasions, it had been my bad luck that the Fish & Chips was always sold out or not available.  Therefore, I was overjoyed when I realised this time around it was available.  People speak very highly of this dish, and with good reason - It is outstanding.  One travesty in Singapore vegetarian establishments is serving old and withered looking leafy vegetables - What is so fantastic about Veggie Cottage, is that you can taste the freshness in all the ingredients.  The focal point of the dish is the mock fish.  The batter of this 'fish' was light and moreish, with the mock meat itself having just the right amount of seaweed flavour.  Price wise this dish is superb value for money, considering the quality and freshness of the food.

Price: $6.50.     9/10

For those who read my first review, you will know the highlight of the meal was the spaghetti bolognese.  Therefore, I was overjoyed when I discovered that Veggie Cottage had added Aglio Olio to their menu as well.  I'll repeat what I said many months ago - If you want perfectly cooked pasta (which in Singapore is virtually unheard of) then you must head to Veggie Cottage.  Not only is the pasta cooked perfectly, but the other ingredients were equally as outstanding.  The garlic (be warned Buddhists) was browned and cooked sensationally.  But the real hero of the dish was the fresh parsley, which really gave the dish a fresh and earthy element.  Perhaps a couple of cherry tomatoes inside would have made it even more amazing.

Price: $6.50.     9/10


Conclusion - This cafe undoubtedly ranks as one of the most special eateries in Singapore.  Whether you're a vegan, vegetarian, fishetarian, donkeyetarian or whatever - It doesn't matter, you will find something to enjoy about this homely cafe.  The only downside, which continues to persist, is the waiting time.  A waiting time of at least 15-20 minutes should be expect.  But for me, I'm happy to wait and soak up the ambiance.

Overall Rating
Food - 9/10
Ambiance- 10/10
Service - 9/10
Value - 9/10