Gems at Jem: NEW Eateries at Jurong's Latest Food Hub

Five years ago, Jurong was like a province. As soon as you stepped out of the MRT, there was nothing to see but grass, construction, and a few office buildings. The only shopping hub was IMM, the outlet mall you could get to by shuttle (with 15 minutes interval). Take a trip to Jurong East today and you will see how everything has changed. Aside from the JCube mall which opened last year, you can now find Jem – the massive grayish mall beside the train station which seemed to have brought Orchard to the West. Aside from bringing the shops which could mostly be found in the central area (Muji, TopShop, and Mark’s & Spencer, to name a few), Jem also lined up several delectable food choices. Wondering what these are? Let OpenRice bring you on a virtual tour of the F&B establishments. Buckle up. BASEMENT 1

1. Imperial Treasure Seafood Restaurant There’s nothing more Chinese than this place tucked in the corner of B1. The plush interior features carpeted floor, pristine table cloths, and fancy chinaware. Walk around and you will also see the number of private dining rooms they have. When you’re in need of some privacy or if you just want to splurge on comforting Cantonese, Shanghainese, or Teochew food, this is the place to be.
2. So Pho

The newest Vietnamese restaurant to be introduced to Singapore, most specifically Jurong, is So Pho. The cosy eatery has a garden feel to by decorating the interior with different plants and greeneries. Like all authentic Vietnamese dishes, the restaurant only uses fresh ingredients to give them flavour and make them healthy. It’s So Pho, So Good.
3. Xian De Lai

It’s not hard to miss this restaurant what with the striking purple chairs and oriental hot pots set on the tables. Have your fill of its variety of soup bases, handmade food, and signature Spicy Chicken. There are many more choices to choose from. Best of all – this is a hot pot buffet restaurant so you can enjoy its offerings to your heart’s content.

4. Han’s

This cafeteria-style eatery is worth visiting because the food is affordable and it’s really good. Get a taste of the restaurant’s Hainanese/Fusion dishes which have made them so famous. Cakes and other sweets are also available here, and you can see all the choices in their special section in front of Han’s. Enjoy these within the spacious interior decorated with comfy seats and tables.
5. Ichiban Boshi

On first look, you will easily distinguish this as a Japanese place. In its store front is Kuriya, some kind of market place where you can buy different varieties of sushi and sashimi. If you’re dining in, you can just sit beside the sushi conveyor belt and help yourself to whichever you like. There are also other options such as the famous katsudon, chicken karaage, which you can order from the counter.
LEVEL 1 1. Marche Bistro & Bar

Unlike other Marche outlets, this one doesn’t have the marketplace concept where you just walk around the restaurant and pick what you eat. The space is quite smaller and always packed but it looks very refreshing with the brick walls and hanging plants decorating the interior. It still serves patrons with exquisite dishes which have made this restaurant so popular.
2. Mado Cafe

If ice cream is what you are craving for, why don’t you try this newest player in town? Mado’s Café makes soft ice cream which is only made from the best goat’s milk. There’s also a menu for some light nibbles, coffee, and drinks which you can enjoy in the Parisian-inspired café.

3. Spageddies

Modeling its restaurant after an Italian Kitchen, Spageddies gives patrons a number of choices when it comes to American/Italian food – pasta, pizza, desserts, and all other favourites. It’s also got an al fresco area where you can order drinks from the bar while enjoying some fresh air.

4. Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Situated in the corner of Level 1 is Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Though this outlet is smaller than most outlets they have, it still offers diners with the same high quality coffee and tea. Choose from over 22 varieties of coffee and 22 choices of tea. Stay back at this outlet and just relax or read a book. The ambience is fit for someone who just wants to chill in peace.
5. Lena’s

On any given day, Lena’s is always packed with hungry people. It’s not really surprising for it has a whole lot of choices from its menu which doesn’t focus on one specific cuisine. You name it, you can probably find it here. The restaurant itself is also inviting with its noticeable signage in front and bright lights to attract people inside.
See Also: Discover the best food in Jurong with OpenSnap Explore more eateries at JEM