Operating from WIS@Changi along Changi Road, Cafe Mariam carries forward a legacy of exceptional briyani that stretches back generations. Chef Hassan Abdul Majeed, whose grandfather founded the legendary Islamic Restaurant at North Bridge Road, brings 23 years of cooking experience to this humble, hole-in-the-wall establishment.
The Muslim-owned, halal-certified cafe focuses on quality over quantity, with a deliberately limited menu of just five items. This tight selection allows Chef Hassan to make nearly everything from scratch using a labour-intensive three-stage cooking process that ensures each dish meets exacting standards. The authentic briyani and nasi mandi draw praise for generous portions and flavours that honour traditional recipes.
Opening hours reflect the careful preparation required, with the cafe serving Monday to Thursday from 11am to 3pm, and Friday to Sunday from 11am to 2pm. The shortened weekend hours accommodate the chef's workflow while ensuring fresh preparations.
Despite the premium quality, prices remain reasonable, making Cafe Mariam accessible to neighbourhood regulars and briyani enthusiasts willing to travel for authentic preparations. The establishment represents the continuation of Singapore's briyani heritage through passionate, skilled cooking.
The best mandi rice Ive had in Singapore. Chicken and mutton cooked to perfection and then flambe'ed
The best mandi rice I've had in Singapore. The chicken and mutton were cooked to perfection and then flambéed to charred awesomeness. The owners are the nicest people you will meet, and he doesn't eat chilli like me! Will be back!
Markus Tan
Out of this world Nasi bryani and mandi. Balance of spices and flavour is top notch with abit of a s
Out of this world Nasi Bryani and Mandi. The balance of spices and flavour is top-notch, with a hint of smoked taste. The mutton is tender and juicy without much smell, and I found the chicken to be incredibly succulent and juicy. With air-conditioned seating, this makes an ideal lunch place you won't grow tired of. Thank you for all that you do!
Lim Pei Ying
Shared the lamb shank, mutton, and chicken mandi with my family today and it was absolutely deliciou
Shared the lamb shank, mutton, and chicken mandi with my family today, and it was absolutely delicious! Loved the smoky umami flavour in the rice; it was so good you really didn't need any sauce. My favourite was the lamb for sure, very tender and hits the spot. A sign says they won't be cooking briyani anymore after they downsize on 20 October :'(
Andrew Tan
Had the mutton briyani—very good! The rice was a little drier than my preference, but still flavourf
Had the mutton briyani—very good! The rice was a little drier than my preference, but still flavourful. The place has unique vibes, which added to the overall good experience.
Whisky Tan
My “go to” place for excellent dum biryani/mandi (Arabic style biryani).
You have a choice of mutto
My go-to place for excellent dum biryani/mandi (Arabic-style biryani).
You have a choice of mutton or chicken, and biryani or mandi-style rice.
Mutton Biryani
Biryani rice was perfection – rich, with a good balance of spices and infused with saffron. The mutton was outstanding too, with large bones and a good amount of fat to release spectacular flavours into the overall meal. The accompanying dhall curry was okay and actually unnecessary. There's also a side of pickled sour plum and lime; the pickles really do hit the spot.
Chicken Mandi
I believe it’s a yoghurt-spiced chicken finished by charring the top layer with a butane burner. The char is a brilliant novelty; the tinge of smoke and bitterness adds complexity to the chicken. The mandi rice has rich, good-quality ghee flavours infused throughout. Yoghurt (raita) and some green salsa are served as accompaniments, and they are very tasty.
There's great pedigree to the chef too. I believe his grandfather was the founder of Singapore's Islamic Restaurant (Singapore's famous biryani place founded in the 1920s).
Do be patient, especially on weekends. The food is delicious and offered at a price that's incredibly good value, hence long queues can be expected.
@whiskydev