Gwen's Frozen: Right out of the pages of an Archie Comic 1950s Diner?

As someone who’s lived in Joo Chiat her whole life, I guess I know the streets like the back of my hand… the rows and rows of Vietnamese fare alongside hole-in-the-wall cafes with great coffee. This was why when I caught sight of a quaint pink-and-white storefront of Gwen’s Frozen, I got intrigued.

Just outside the store was a simple signboard displaying Gwen’s offerings: burgers, shakes and fries. It was a rare sight to find classic American fare outside of the typical McDonald’s (what more gourmet burgers and milkshakes) within a “heritage spot” in Singapore. So I thought to myself, I have to go in and see what this is all about.

I stepped into the store and found myself transported into a mini American diner, reminiscent of an Archie Comic story and the [now-closed] Coach Cafe. 

With candy-coated pink walls, rotary phones, and “Sugar, Sugar” by the aptly named bubblegum pop band The Archies playing in the background, it felt almost like I’d been transported to the 1950s.

And with Archie comics neatly placed as decor, it might just be a subtle tribute to Pop Tate’s Chocklit Shoppe (millennials, iykyk).

The staff were even dressed head to toe in matching pink-and-white retro paper hats complete with cutesy aprons, and definitely brought the American hospitality with warm smiles.

You truly don’t find rustic diners like these everyday, and I really thought that founder Erin Nash chose a great spot to open Gwen’s (lovingly named after his daughter), amongst Asian eateries in Joo Chiat. Petition to have more U.S style grub made with heart, please!

On to what first caught my eye on the menu: the creamy frozen custard! I took one look at and appreciated that they had my all time favourite fool-proof flavour: Chocolate.

The mix-ins were something I got particularly excited about, because I’m someone who loves being able to customise her food. Gwen’s had options like Twix, salted pretzels, Oreo bits, Nutella, and the works. This time I decided to go a lil’ adventurous with a sweet/savoury combination!

I built my Cyclone ($11.50), (which is their own version of a mini pint, complete with two mix-ins) with Chocolate frozen custard, salted pretzels and Twix.

When served, the staff amusingly flipped the pint over for some structural integrity fun. Super reminiscent of those Dairy Queen days, when you would flip their signature blizzards.

This may sound strange, but the sweet and salty combination really worked! The ratio of toppings to custard was almost 1:1, and you get a bit of pretzel and caramel-ly Twix in each bite, which was a treat for a sweet tooth like me. I also appreciate that the chocolate custard wasn’t overly sweet, which allowed the mix-ins to really shine through each ice-y mouthful. The frozen custard melts rather fast, so be mindful, I set it aside for a minute and a small puddle had already started to form!

To pair with my frozen custard, I opted for their version of a Grilled Cheese Sandwich ($8.50). Simple, yes, but hard to find a grilled cheese that makes you actually want to commit to finishing the whole sandwich.

They use wholemeal bread and a dollop of mayo for their grilled cheese, and rightfully so… The slightly nutty aftertaste amidst the rich, cheesy bite just works. I actually found myself growing to enjoy the sandwich with each progressive bite. I guess all it needed was a side of hot tomato soup, to complete the ultimate comfort experience.

They serve a mean but small selection of burgers too. Think: Philly Cheesesteaks and NYC Cheeseburgers. Next time, perhaps?

The space is minimal, and can roughly sit about 5 to 6 pax, as they are mainly a takeaway establishment. But no worries if you just want a quick pick me up of frozen custard or ices to have in store, the staff at Gwen’s make you feel right at home.

Who this space is for: If you love hearty American grub or are an OG-Dairy Queen fan!

Must-try items: Frozen custard with Salted Pretzel mix-ins (must!)

Will try on my next visit: Vanilla frozen custard, Philly Cheesesteak 

Location: 98 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427469; A 15-20 minute walk from Paya Lebar MRT, or accessible by bus 33