Singapore’s beloved sandwich institution, Park Bench Deli (PBD), is making a highly anticipated return almost three years after closing its permanent Telok Ayer location, launching a three-month pop-up experience at The Pantry in Dempsey starting January 10. The revival sees PBD bringing back its signature American-style sandwiches and brunch favorites, while also showcasing its sister concept, Rosita’s Deluxe, for evening service, offering food enthusiasts a limited-time opportunity to indulge in the flavors that helped establish the country’s modern deli scene.
The closure of PBD in 2023 was met with disappointment by local foodies, who viewed the establishment as the gold standard for hearty, New York-style deli fare in Singapore. Its influence is undeniable, having arguably paved the way for subsequent successful sandwich and deli concepts across the city. This temporary residency provides a nostalgic taste of PBD’s legacy without committing to a new brick-and-mortar spot.
Reliving the Classic PBD Experience
Open from Thursdays to Tuesdays, the PBD experience runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Breakfast items are available from the jump, featuring staples like the Sausage Egg Muffin ($15) and the expansive PBD Big Breakfast ($30).
However, the main event—the celebrated sandwiches—only begins service after 11 a.m. Dedicated fans will be thrilled to learn that several cult favorites are back on the menu:
- Pastrami Reuben ($34): A definitive American classic stacked with thick cuts of pastrami brisket, Provolone cheese, and coleslaw between slices of toasted sourdough.
- Southern-style Hot Fried Chicken ($28)
- Philly Cheesesteak ($29)
While the menu prices reflect the premium ingredients and temporary nature of the residency, the experience promises to be worth the splurge for those who missed the original PBD.
Evening Burgers and All-Day Tipples
Injecting variety into the pop-up schedule, PBD’s sibling concept, Rosita’s Deluxe, takes over on weekend evenings, shifting the focus from towering sandwiches to smashed, double-stacked cheeseburgers. Available from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., the burger menu includes:
- Rosita’s OG ($28): A traditional build with ketchup, mustard, and chopped onions.
- Western Burger ($30): A more indulgent option featuring bacon, blue cheese, barbecue sauce, and a crispy onion ring.
Diners can enhance their burger with an optional side of Garlic Cheese Fries ($16).
Adding to the vibrancy of the Dempsey setting, the pop-up offers an extensive beverage menu for all-day enjoyment. Espresso martinis, Aperol Spritz, and other highballs range from $20 to $24, with wines by the glass starting at $18. Those seeking non-alcoholic options have a selection of cold-pressed juices ($11), smoothies ($12), and specialty coffees (from $6).
Accessibility and Location Details
The PBD and Rosita’s Deluxe pop-up has ensured an inclusive offering, featuring a dedicated kids’ menu and a vegetarian-friendly option: the Broccoli Falafel Smash Burger ($28).
Fans eager to revisit the iconic flavors must act swiftly, as the residency is strictly limited to three months.
Pop-Up Details:
- Location: The Pantry, 16A Dempsey Rd, Singapore 247695
- Hours: Thursdays to Tuesdays, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (PBD)
- Rosita’s Deluxe: Weekend evenings, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
This temporary return underlines the lasting impact a specialty food establishment can have on a city’s dining landscape, proving that even a closure cannot diminish the public appetite for true culinary quality. For lovers of classic American deli fare, this Dempsey residency is an essential, albeit fleeting, destination.