‘Special treat when I was a child’: Regulars rue impending closure of Fosters Steakhouse

By Gaelmaine Hoong September 2, 2022
‘Special treat when I was a child’: Regulars rue impending closure of Fosters Steakhouse
Fosters Steakhouse’s distinctive yellow signboard. Photo: Gaelmaine Hoong/HungryGoWhere
Table of Contents

After more than six decades of serving traditional English dishes with a twist, Fosters Steakhouse is closing its doors for good on Oct 26.

Announcing this in a Facebook post on Aug 23, it thanked its customers for their support over the years and said it would hold a farewell party on Oct 25, from 5pm to 10pm.

Having been around since 1960, Fosters Steakhouse has a long history that few F&B establishments can boast about. Media reports have said it’s the only steakhouse with Hainanese influences that’s still standing today.

Originally located at the now-demolished Amber Mansion along Orchard Road, Fosters Steakhouse stands out among the hip cafes in the trendy Holland Village neighbourhood with its classical charm and cosy interior.

Fosters Steakhouse_oldest steakhouse in Singapore_interior
Behind the bar at Fosters Steakhouse. Photo: Gaelmaine Hoong/HungryGoWhere

The space is optimised to fit large groups, with tables big enough to seat groups of eight. 

 

Precious memories

It’s evident that the steakhouse has built a reputation for being a go-to spot for gatherings. Since its announcement, patrons have flocked to the comments section to share special memories of the place and bemoan its impending closure. 

For some, Fosters is a place offering great value and quality.

Jewellery retailer Mary Ng, 65, says she’s been a patron of the steakhouse even before it relocated from Orchard Road. The reasonable prices, good-quality steak and aesthetic presentation are the main reasons she comes back yearly for birthday celebrations and catch-ups with friends. 

For others, it’s a place that holds precious memories and has sentimental value. 

IT consultant Jeannette James, 40, had her first taste of scones there.

“As a young 10-year-old who had never stepped outside of Singapore, eating a scone with cream and jam felt like a luxury,” she says. “It was… a special treat when I was a child and I cherish the memories of my mum and I doing that.” 

For community manager Pamela Lam, 29, the restaurant was where her parents held their silver wedding anniversary party and where her date (now-husband) asked her to be his girlfriend. Upon hearing about the steakhouse’s forthcoming closure, the family made a reservation to attend its farewell party. 

Among the more popular menu items are its set lunch (from S$20.90+) and set dinner (from S$44+). Both feature soup (or a choice of an appetiser for the dinner set), a main course, a drink, and a dessert. 

While HungryGoWhere was there this week, we ordered the set lunch, picking the tenderloin steak as our main course. 

Fosters Steakhouse_closure_hainanese english steak
Tenderloin steak. Photo: Gaelmaine Hoong/HungryGoWhere

The steak was served medium-rare on a bed of mashed potatoes and vegetables. It was tender and juicy, with just the right amount of chewiness. Though good on its own, the steak can also be enjoyed with a rich chestnut sauce that’s incredibly savoury. 

Fosters Steakhouse is a space with a homey atmosphere that’s a rarity these days. While walk-ins are welcome until Oct 26, you’re encouraged to reserve a table or visit during non-peak hours to avoid disappointment. 

Fosters Steakhouse is on the GrabFood delivery service. You can also book a ride there.

Fosters Steakhouse

277 Holland Avenue
Nearest MRT station: Holland Village (take Exit B)
Open: Sunday to Thursday (11am to 10pm), Friday and Saturday (11am to 11pm)

277 Holland Avenue
Nearest MRT station: Holland Village (take Exit B)
Open: Sunday to Thursday (11am to 10pm), Friday and Saturday (11am to 11pm)


Avatar photo

Gaelmaine Hoong

Author

Gael comes from a family of picky eaters and she also likes to talk a lot. So, writing about food seems like a reasonable pastime for her.

Read More
Scroll to top