If you’ve been craving comfort food with a modern twist, YARA is the new spot to bookmark. Housed in newly opened The Initial Sama, which is the gorgeously restored former Eusoff Ishak Malay College, this latest Eleven Seventeen Capital concept brings together soulful Asian flavours, playful twists, and just the right amount of indulgence.
@aveonemag Want some comfort food? YARA has some amazing comfort food but with a modern twist just for you 🤤 Watch will the end to check out our favourite picks of their menu 🍽 🔗 Link in bio for our full review! 📍 The Initial Sama, 26 Evans Rd, Singapore 259367 🗓 Daily except Wednesdays 🕐 11am – 3pm and 5pm – 10pm #WhatToEat #WhereToEat #YARA #FoodRecommendation ♬ original sound – AVENUE ONE
YARA Review: Why You’ll Want to Dine Here
Think minimalist interiors with warm wooden tones, sunlight flooding through big windows, and a vibe that’s equally perfect for a long brunch, weekday dinner, or weekend catch-up. Families, take note: there’s a kids’ menu too.
Start light but don’t skimp on flavour. The Haricot Vert Kerabu (S$18) is a crunchy, refreshing salad that’s bright, slightly spicy, and totally shareable. It’s unique, fun, and not something you see everywhere.
For my personal favourite, the Breaded Muah Otah (S$18) takes a familiar local classic and makes it downright indulgent. This features golden, crispy, with soft, savoury Muah-style Otah inside. You’ll be dipping, munching, and wanting more.
For mains, the Grilled Fish of the Day (market price) is non-negotiable. The skin is crisp, the flesh tender and flaky, and the freshness shines through naturally sweet flavours. The culinary team smartly pairs it with two sambals: the herbaceous Sambal Ijo and the zesty Sambal Matah, which I find helps make sure my tastebuds don’t get bored halfway through.
The Yu-Tang Clam Bowl (S$24) is seriously next-level. Featuring rice noodles, wild-caught Balai threadfin, and clams that swim in a broth so sweet and naturally tasty; this is a dish that will keep you sipping it until the last drop. Every ingredient hit in harmony, offering comfort without ever feeling heavy.
Dessert here isn’t an afterthought. The Chilled ‘Kueh Talam’ Pudding (S$10) plays with texture: a cloud-like top that’s light, soft, and fun to eat.
Meanwhile, chocolate-lovers can’t skip the Brûléed Chocolate Brusciato (S$12), rich, indulgent, and perfectly balanced with bergamot-poached pear.
Sip Something Special
YARA’s drinks menu deserves a shout-out too. The Tang Yuan (S$26) is a soulful cocktail twist on the classic dessert, featuring bulleit bourbon meets peanut butter, coconut, and warming ginger for a surprisingly smooth, comforting sip.
Alternatively, try the YARA Sling (S$26), a bright and refreshing nod to Singapore, which combines Beefeater gin, Aperol, lychee, and pipagao loquat for a drink that’s nostalgic yet unexpectedly modern.
YARA is located at 26 Evans Road, Singapore 259367. It is opened from 11am – 3pm and 5pm – 10pm, daily except Wednesdays.
