In the corner of Raffles Hotel is a cross between a modern hotel café and a 1930s old-fashioned local "kopitiam".

With tiled walls, marble-topped tables, matching bentwood-style chairs, and antique sideboards, the feel of nostalgia creates a setting that takes the diner to days of old.

The menu comprises of mainly Singapore's street hawker food of yore, and other home-cooked dishes found in traditional Chinese, Malay, Indian and Peranakan households.

Sample the restaurant's extremely delicious Laksa.

Filled with succulent prawns and doused in rich, orange yellow gravy, this dish has comfortably remained at the top of most diners' must-try list.

The poh piah is equally delicious, hearty and inspiringly salubrious.

Hainanese chicken rice, a definite winner for many diners, is fast becoming Singapore's national dish.

Empire Café does not disappoint with their version, with tender luscious chicken and tasty, but not overly spicy chili sauce. Unforgettable local dishes are the restaurant's forte, as can be attested to by its customers.

Catering to anyone looking for good local fare, Empire Café is as authentic as it comes and is indeed an excellent introduction to local cuisine.