I checked out Between Buns Deli in Singapore for a review, and yes, it’s worth every bit of the hype! Here’s why I’ll be back.
After visiting Betweens Buns Deli in the Singapore CBD, I can finally end my search for that great sandwich high I’ve been chasing. Following the closure of Surrey Hills Deli and the end of Park Bench Deli’s pop-up at Dempsey, I’ve had a craving I couldn’t quell. That is, until Between Buns Deli entered the scene. Oxtail melts, a signature fried chicken burger, and a beef sandwich you dip into a savoury soup? Sign me up, immediately. Psst: if you’ve got a huge craving, check out these other sandwich shops in Singapore.
Between Buns Deli Singapore review: Details at a glance
Best for: CBD lunches; grab-and-go breakfasts before a busy day; indulgent sandwiches on cheat days
Must-tries: Oxtail melt; roasted broccolini; cajun fries; sticky toffee pudding
Price: Sandwiches start from $14
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm
Address: Between Buns Deli, #01-01, 160 Robinson Road, Singapore 068914
From pop-ups to a full-fledged diner
If you think Between Buns sounds familiar, you aren’t the only one! True Singapore gourmands will recognise this brand for its coveted fried chicken burgers and limited-time pop-ups at various hot spots.
The brand was created by Ahmir Arshad in 2020, who was inspired by the sandwich culture while working in Australia. As I chat with Ahmir, he tells me he found great success during his home-business days thanks to word-of-mouth. And let’s be real: his sandwiches look phenomenal.
As the buzz grew, so did the brand. Between Buns began collaborating with the likes of Artichoke, Two Men Bagel House, Dirty Supper, and Almost Famous. But the one thing Ahmir yearned for? A space to call his own.
When he found work in another restaurant, Between Buns took a short hiatus. This led to Ahmir’s chance encounter with Tong, the founder of PleasureCraft Group and the mind behind Marcy’s, Maggie’s, and Parliament. One conversation later, the two began looking for that perfect space to bring Between Buns to life.
Sandwiches that attract the CBD crowd
Even before its official launch, Between Buns Deli has been drawing a huge crowd and long lines. The team tell me items often sell out before they close for the day. It seems I haven’t been the only one craving a hearty sandwich! The shop was full even during my visit after lunch hours – a testament to how popular it is.
I was lucky enough to score a portion of the coveted oxtail melt ($23). After a 12-hour braise, the meat is shredded and combined with fermented chilli mayo, then topped with cheese and pickles. One bite was all it took for me to understand why it sells out on the regular. Savoury with a warm spice lingering on your tongue, it keeps you diving back for the next bite.
The tuna melt ($14) has a similar spice to it! Mixed with green chillies and sriracha, it elevates the typical tuna mayo with some much-needed heat and acidity.
While the meaty sandwiches were a treat, I found myself drawn to the roasted broccolini sandwich ($14). I don’t normally go for a fully vegetarian option, so I was sceptical. However, there was something about the combination of charred broccolini, creamy stracciatella, savoury red pesto, and tahini that made my taste buds tingle. It was, shockingly, one of my favourite menu items.
Accompaniments to make everything sing
Your main attraction isn’t complete without sides, and Between Buns Deli keeps it tight with a small but extremely well-executed selection.
If sandwiches aren’t enough for you, grab cajun fries ($6) or potato salad ($5) to go with your meal. I can’t tell you what Between Buns Deli put in its fries, but they were addictively crunchy. I wiped them out before I could even grab a picture (sorry!). Meanwhile, the potato salad is chunky and creamy, with a touch of acidity to brighten every bite.
On the sweet side, you can’t miss out on the double chip cookie ($5.50). This sweet treat was inspired by Ahmir’s love for Royce’s chocolate-coated potato chips. The added salted Ruffles chips give a much-needed salt factor to this sweet cookie. I also couldn’t say no to the sticky toffee pudding ($13). Inflected with bites of zesty orange, it’s not as sweet as your typical sticky toffee pudding, and not overly cloying.
Is Between Buns Deli worth visiting?
With most sandwiches sitting comfortably under $20, I’d say Between Buns Deli is definitely one to check out – especially if you’re working in the Tanjong Pagar area. It’s currently only open on weekdays with limited hours. Fingers crossed that that might change in the future!
Long queues are to be expected with any new lunch spot that opens up in the CBD, so I recommend dipping out of the office early to get ahead of the queue. Or you can take a page out of my book and go for the breakfast options, which are just as delicious. See you there, maybe?
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Between Buns Deli take reservations?
Between Buns Deli currently doesn't take any reservations, so we recommend getting there early to score a seat or get them to-go.
Are there vegetarian options at Between Buns Deli?
Yes! Vegetarians can go for the roasted broccolini sandwich ($14) or the broccoli and avocado salad ($14).
When should I visit Between Buns Deli?
Between Buns Deli is only open on weekdays for a limited amount of time. We recommend coming in the morning to try the breakfast selection, or before the lunch rush to beat the queue.
You can come after lunch hour. However, be warned that Between Buns Deli sandwiches can sell out fast.
Are there drinks available?
Yes, there are some drinks on the menu including coffee, tea, soda, and even horchata.
Is Between Buns Deli a pop-up?
No! This Between Buns Deli is a permanent location, so feel free to visit any time.
