Fosters English Rose Cafe, Holland Village

I had the joy of having a good conversation over scones and tea recently. 

We were dressed simply, we chatted interestedly, we ate heartily.

When she spoke, I listened;

When I spoke, she did the same.

The conversations that took place, 

transcended what was in the self's interest.

Such afternoons leave me amazed,

at the peace that can be the case.

But I leaned back deep into the armchair,

sipped my earl grey tea, 

and stayed unfazed,

determined to enjoy the gentle sun's rays.

It was a laidback afternoon, 

such days are rare, 

once in a blue moon.

The cream tea set at Fosters Cafe is probably one of the worst kept secrets in Singapore. At about $12 for a person's portion of cream tea (comprising 2 scones, 1 slice of cake, 2 finger sandwiches and a cup of tea), it's hard to see why. What made the cherry on top of the icing for me was how fresh the produce was. My scones were very evidently fresh out of the oven, and stayed warm throughout my leisurely afternoon tea. Extra points too for how quintessentially British the cream tea was. Forget the fancy three-tiered sets of pompous afternoon tea that seems to be the trend around here; afternoon tea in the UK is at its best when done in the most homely fashion possible. It is inviting; it is comforting. 

Fosters has done a great job in bringing a slice of the UK to Singapore. I sure hope someone can do the same with Sunday roasts as what Fosters has done with their cream tea. Fingers crossed.

Fosters English Rose Cafe/ Fosters Steakhouse

277 Holland Ave

Holland Village

Contact: 6466-8939

(cream tea available from 3pm to 6pm)