There’s a new multi-concept store at Orchard Central — a Korean beauty salon that also serves cafe grub. Taking over the spot left behind by tea house/restaurant/retail shop/art studio Steamroom With The Pillar and Stones, which debuted in mid-2017 and, well, really didn’t last all that long, Walking on Sunshine is determined to overcome the odds stacked against it. We’re talking about its “hidden” location, of course. One of those upper level units that seem to have tenants come and go without much luck.
Orchard Central has always been somewhat of a conundrum for the businesses it houses. It’s located along the Orchard Road stretch, down the road from malls like Ion and 313 @ Somerset, which see a decent amount of foot traffic daily, yet it’s not exactly anyone’s go-to unless you’ve got a specific destination in mind. Sure, the ground level eateries receive a bit of a crowd, but once you head up to the higher levels, where shops are tucked into maze-like nooks and crannies, you’d be hard pressed to find another soul wandering around.
But, Walking on Sunshine must have big dreams to take over such an expansive space, and its Facebook page speaks for early buzz, already garnering five stars from over 200 reviews. (Although who can tell what’s real or fake these days.)
Injecting a much-needed dose of greenery to its concrete surroundings, the brand covers its ceiling, walls, and tables with potted plants, hanging leaves, and dried blooms. It’s like stepping into a floral wonderland — only, this isn’t a florist, but a hair salon, nail studio, beauty parlor, and cafe with a small retail area. So you can essentially get your tresses trimmed, nails beautified, and eyelashes extended before you browse through the shop that sells items like Korean flower teas and minimal-style table ware by Kinto.
The food menu also has Korean influences, featuring brunch bites like soufflé pancakes ($23), salads with toppings such as bulgogi and mixed bean ($19.50), paninis sandwiching spicy pork ($17.50), beef bulgogi pizzas ($21.50), honey butter toasts ($11.50), and more. You can also order standard cafe grub such as eggs benny ($18.50), mushroom soup ($10.50), or double beef burger ($18.50).
Prices here aren’t the most gentle on your wallet, so if you’re just in the mood for a liquid perk-me-up, try signature drinks like butter cream latte ($6.50), coconut smoothie coffee ($8), or a mint, lemongrass, rosemary, and lemon tea blend ($9.50).
Apparently, the cafe also has a $15 breakfast buffet that goes on daily from 9am to noon, where you can stack your table with dishes from the brunch, soup, salad, and panini selection. Pretty worth it, especially if you’re a big believer in starting your day with a hearty meal.
FIND IT:
Walking on Sunshine is at #03-07 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd.
8877-8800. Daily 10am-10pm.
MRT: Somerset
