Hello Arigato has become one of those top-of-mind cafes at Joo Chiat, and it is not difficult to understand why. We fell in love with the cosy small space even though there was nothing much to speak about, rest for a feature shelf with a display of Japanese and minimalistic knickknacks.
Hello Arigato is a lifestyle cafe with a Japanese-inspired menu, and it first gained popularity with its first outlet at Upper Thomson. We prefer the one at Joo Chiat, because Joo Chiat.
Step into Hello Arigato Joo Chiat and be greeted by a minimalistic white space. The cafe isn’t big – probably 30-seater – and you can see from front to end. Whilst it can get a tad cramped, it is still a cosy space for a meal and a drink.
You must try their Japanese-inspired sandos (sandwich, in case you didn’t get it). That was what got people’s attention when Hello Arigato first opened; people flocked to the first outlet at Upper Thomson for sandos.
There are quite a few variations, with the Gyu Sando (S$26) being their house specialty. While we thought it was very reasonably-priced for the generous portion, the wagyu didn’t hit the spot for us.
The Spam & Egg Sando (S$18), on the other hand, may sound simple but was way better. A thick slab of luncheon meat, lots of scrambled egg and American cheddar are enveloped in Japanese brioche, complete with spiced tomato jam. Gratifying with every bite, we’d say.
For all the sandos, you have the option of topping up with a side of curly fries at S$5, but we would say skip this and go for the a la carte Hello Twister Fries (S$13). A full portion of everyone’s favourite sinful fries is generously coated with a housemade Japanese curry and cheese sauce and topped with scallions – so damn shiok.
There is a Pasta and Brunch menu too, and while it is interesting to see they used Udon to whip up Japanese-styled pastas, we weren’t fans of it.
Oh, but we really loved the Iced Dirty Matcha (S$8) on the drinks menu and it is our must-order every time we dine at Hello Arigato. They also bake their own cookies which we have yet to try, but we will, soon!
Hello Arigato
227 Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 574359
Tel: +65 8772 3778
314 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427565
Tel: +65 8889 5657
