Nestled in the balmy residential neighborhood of Upper Serangoon, Jane Provision Shop has emerged as a captivating haven for those seeking a unique blend of culinary indulgence and artistic expression. This intimate diner, helmed by chef and baker Jane Chung and photographer Samuel Foo, has undergone a transformation from its initial days as a cafe specializing in homemade bakes and teas. The duo’s desire to create a space that melded serenity and taste, coupled with a lack of quality sake bars in Singapore, led them to rebrand Jane Provision Shop as a friendly neighborhood diner and craft sake bar.
The space, with its Japandi influences and earthy modernity, exudes a sense of homeliness. Vintage furniture and antique trinkets, carefully sourced from local haunts like Aa Furniture, adorn the diner, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. However, Jane Provision Shop sets itself apart from other hole-in-the-wall eateries by incorporating fashion and music into the dining experience. Alongside the delectable bites and refreshing tipples, Chung and Foo curate a selection of pre-loved luxury garments and rare vinyl records, adding another layer of depth and intrigue to the space. The latest installment features a rack of archival treasures hand-picked by the duo from local archive store Milieu, alongside handmade linen pieces from Foo. Chung and Foo recognize the inherent connection between food and the creative scene, particularly fashion. They point to Junya Watanabe’s collaboration with English heritage restaurant St John in 2019 as a prime example, where the esteemed Japanese designer released work jackets and bags emblazoned with the restaurant’s logo.
The duo emphasizes the importance of creating a third place where people can unwind and enjoy the things they love. Jane Provision Shop aims to cultivate authentic interactions with people and the surrounding environment, creating a sense of comfort and connection for its patrons. The menu, reflecting the cozy ambiance, features light plates that pair well with craft sakes, including dishes like sardine pâté, tea leaf rice, and grilled stingray.
For Chung and Foo, fashion and music play a crucial role in shaping the overall experience at Jane Provision Shop. They believe that these elements subconsciously influence our lives, determining the company we keep and how we are perceived. They plan to continue bringing in styles and designers they admire, along with treasured pieces from their personal wardrobes, adding a personal touch to the space.
As an emerging homegrown business, Jane Provision Shop faces challenges in maintaining inventory, managing daily operations, and striking a healthy work-life balance. However, they remain steadfast in their vision of creating a space that pushes creative boundaries and offers a unique experience. Their aspirations for the future include collaborating with other creatives and like-minded individuals who share their passion for artistic expression. They envision Jane Provision Shop as a space that will continue to evolve and inspire, leaving a lasting impact on its community.
Photography: Sayher Heffernan
Styling: Bryan Ho
Hair and make-up: Zhou Aiyi/Makeup Entourage using Burberry Beauty and Keune Haircosmetics
