Sederhana Restaurant Opens in Singapore, Takes Over Historic Padang Rice Building
Indonesian padang restaurant chain Sederhana is preparing to open its first outlet in Singapore.
The restaurant’s arrival marks a significant expansion step and fills a historically important location previously occupied by Warong Nasi Pariaman in the Kampong Glam area. The news was announced through Sederhana Singapore’s Instagram account.
“Singapore, we have arrived. A legacy that began several decades ago has now found a new home beyond borders,” wrote Sederhana Singapore in their announcement. “After a lengthy search for the right location, we are proud to bring Indonesian flavours to Kampong Glam, marking another meaningful chapter in our journey,” the statement continued.
The choice of location has drawn particular attention, as it was previously occupied by Warong Nasi Pariaman, an iconic padang rice establishment in Singapore. The restaurant, which opened in 1948, ceased operations at the end of January after being managed across generations by the same family.
According to Singapore Infopedia, managed by the National Library Board, Warong Nasi Pariaman is believed to be the oldest surviving warung in Singapore serving nasi padang. In 2016, the establishment received the Heritage Heroes Awards for its contribution to preserving local culinary traditions.
Founded in 1972, Sederhana has developed into one of Indonesia’s largest padang rice restaurant chains, with over 200 outlets across various regions. Signature dishes include beef rendang, spicy jerky, and pop chicken, which are traditional Minangkabau specialities. These dishes have become favourites at Sederhana outlets nationwide.
The Singapore expansion continues the company’s international trajectory following the earlier opening of three outlets in Malaysia at Petaling Jaya, Chow Kit, and Kampung Baru. Additionally, Sederhana is reportedly preparing to open a branch in Melbourne, Australia.
With Sederhana’s arrival in Kampong Glam, an area known as a centre of Malay culture in Singapore, the neighbourhood will regain a padang rice destination expected to continue the long-standing culinary tradition associated with the location.