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Why I Started Lilac Oak: A Vegan Café for Conscious Living in Singapore
- bylilacoak
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Lilac Oak wasn’t born out of a trend — it was born out of love, intention, and the quiet dream of creating a space where conscious living meets heartfelt food.
24 July 2021: The day we opened our doors; post circuit-breaker. 🍍🍍
A Little Dream that Took Root
Like many good stories, Lilac Oak started with love. Not just for food, but for family, conscious living, and the kind of care that runs deep. Since my teens, I dreamed of owning a lifestyle café. The kind of space that felt like an extension of home, filled with warmth, good vibes, and food that nourishes both body and soul.
But it was my mum who inspired the direction Lilac Oak would eventually take. As a vegan and a Buddhist vegetarian who avoids alliums and alcohol, her options in Singapore were extremely limited. And let’s be honest, a lot of the early vegan options were either too processed or simply uninspired. The only "safe" choices were your traditional "sweet soups" (甜汤). So I started experimenting in the kitchen—first to satisfy her cravings, and then because I fell in love with the magic of plantbased cooking.
From Passion to Purpose
Lilac Oak was never just about being meat- or dairy-free. It was about creating a place where conscious choices and delicious food coexist beautifully—we serve food that’s thoughtfully plant-powered.
Inspired by what we already valued at home—natural, organic, wholesome ingredients—our menu was built on the belief that food can be both joyful and mindful. From decadent cakes to hearty mains, everything is handcrafted from scratch using natural, wholesome ingredients. No artificial additives, just honest-to-goodness real food.
We've seen how switching to a more plant-based diet has improved health and even cleared skin, not just for us but for people around us. So we kept developing and refining, until we could confidently serve food we love to eat — and are proud to share.
We wanted to change the perception of vegan food. To show that indulgence doesn't need cruelty, that you can enjoy creamy gelato, decadent cakes, hearty sandwiches and soulful mains all made entirely from plants.
We like to call it plant-magic.
A Hidden Gem in the City
We’re often told that we’re “a little far,” tucked away at 71 Oxley Rise, but that’s part of the charm. Surrounded by lush greenery and just an 8-minute walk from Dhoby Ghaut, Somerset, and Fort Canning MRT, Lilac Oak is a hidden sanctuary for quiet mornings, thoughtful meals, and catch-ups that matter. This isn’t just a café. It’s a lifestyle — one that’s rooted in mindfulness, balance, and good food.
The Journey So Far
Since opening our doors, we've been overwhelmed by the love. From loyal regulars who bring their friends and family, to curious newcomers who leave surprised (and delighted!) by what vegan food can taste like. Lilac Oak has grown into a community space—a place to unwind, catch up, work, or simply enjoy a beautiful plate of food.
Looking Ahead
Our goal isn’t just to be a café, but to be a movement. We want to continue crafting food that surprises and nourishes, to offer mindful catering and dessert tables, and to be a local champion for conscious living.
Today, we stay true to our vision since day one: To be your one-stop destination for all things vegan. So the categories we offer are extensive:
* Bakes ✔️
* Cakes ✔️
* Sandwiches & Mains ✔️
* Waffles & Gelato ✔️
+ Catering & Dessert Tables ✔️
If you’re new to plant-based dining, welcome. And if you’re already on this path, we’re so glad you're here. Let’s create a kinder, tastier world—one bite at a time.
Come Say Hi!
Whether you’re here for a slice of vegan cake, a nourishing main, or to discover a new way of living — we’re here to welcome you with open arms (and a warm oat latte!).
Visit us at www.lilacoak.com or follow us on Instagram @lilac.oak for new menu updates, specials, and behind-the-scenes peeks.
xx,
Chloe
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