Pretty new to the cafe scene of the late is Amika Cafe and Bar; taking over the former premises of Two Bakers at Teck Chye Terrace, Amika Cafe & Bar is located a few a couple of bus stops away from NEX, Serangoon MRT Station and Serangoon Bus Interchange. For those whom have visited Two Bakers at this location previously, the interior of Amika Cafe & Bar remains pretty much the same as what it was during the tenancy of the previous operator. Despite being largely similar to what it was previously, the placement of the furnishings do somewhat differ — gone is the cake display that used to be placed near the entrance at some point of time; there is also a side table near the entrance that has some Thai ornaments on display. Being pretty much a cafe and bar, Amika’s menu features starters/sharing plates, all-day brunch items and mains — some of which carrying a Thai influence such as that of the Spicy Tamarind Pork Pasta and the Zaap Fries that we have ordered; other more westernised items that are available here includes the Rosti Sausage and Amika Burger; just to name a few. Beverages at Amika Cafe and Bar are largely limited to non-alcoholic ones — a little surprising considering how they do call themselves a bar; patrons can expect a variety of specialty coffee, tea and mocktails available here.

Of the various mains that are available at Amika Cafe & Bar, it was clear that the Spicy Tamarind Pork Pasta had already caught our attention as we skimmed through the menu before deciding to head in. The Spicy Tamarind Pork Pasta consists of elements such as spaghetti that is tossed in a homemade spicy tamarind sauce that is mildly spicy with grilled marinated Kurobuta Pork. First taste of the pasta and we liked how the pasta is done al-dente; the pasta being coated with the savoury yet tangy tamarind sauce that can be said to be similar to that of an Assam sauce with some depth — the sauce being suitably spicy and should do fine even for those who have a low tolerance to spiciness. The Kurobuta Pork Belly is well-marinated; savoury whilst being pretty gelatinous around the fatty parts — does require some effort to chew but it is still juicy and considerable tender. An item that is pretty unique, and something which one would probably be not able to find elsewhere.

The closure of Two Bakers at Teck Chye Terrace may be said as a loss to the residents around Serangoon for a spot that serves pretty decent brunch and bakes in the neighbourhood; that being said, Amika Cafe and Bar does fill up this void rather decently — not only do they serve up what most would consider usual brunch fare at a decent price point (most all-day brunch items and main fall below $22 here), they do have some items that does seem rather unique here. No doubt that are better cafes around the island, but Amika Cafe & Bar would probably cut it for those staying around the area who is looking for a hangout in their own neighbourhood for a leisurely brunch over the weekend.