Coq & Balls: Tiong Bahru’s tasty neighbourhood hang out

Book now with Chope at City Nomads

Coq. Balls. Ok you’ve got to love the name. It reminds me of some random, old pub in a quiet, countryside town in the UK. Whilst Coq & Balls is certainly not that in any sense, what it is though is a very relaxed neighbourhood bar and restaurant offering chilled vibes, a good drinks selection and a reasonably priced menu full of comfort foods to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Just like their massive Bolognese ($14). Soft spaghetti covered in a generous mountain of bolognese, topped off with a snowy mountain of freshly-shaved parmesan. This is nothing like Italian gourmet, but western comfort food it certainly is, and rather scrumptious at that.

Another savoury treat worth munching on is their Goat Cheese Tart ($16). Although slightly stodgy, this really hits the spot with its mouth-forward goat cheese taste. It’s the kind of dish you want on your post-boozing recovery brunch at the weekend.

Having said that, if you’re really looking for that full, big breakfast to satisfy your aching stomach (and perhaps head), their ‘The Big Coq’ ($16) breakfast might just hit the spot. Big, juicy slices of bacon, sausages, a large helping of scrambled eggs and even grilled tomato and baked beans.

For the more healthy among us, the Baked Granola with Yogurt & Wild Forest Berries ($12) is a decent option. Nothing too exciting but you definitely can’t go wrong if you’re looking for something a little lighter to wake up to.

On the drinks front, I was very pleasantly surprised to find that Coq & Balls has a pretty impressive selection of craft beers and ciders (from $13). And whilst their cocktails (from $18) aren’t exactly award-winning, they certainly are worth ordering – our favourite their lovely Espresso Martini. The breakfast drink of champions!

Coq & Balls is a great little neighbourhood hang-out and offers everything you’d want from your ‘local’. The only complaint however is these guys should really work on their service. Whilst being friendly and helpful, service can be a wee bit too relaxed and there’s a slight tendency for minor ‘coq-ups’.

On this occasion the meal was compliments of Coq & Balls

Book now with Chope at City Nomads


When not rambling his way around Singapore on discovery-mode, he likes to hang out with friends, cook, make experimental cocktails and attempt handstands during yoga.