Patrons of Killiney Kopitiam in the Bay Area will have to wait until spring for their next fix of Singaporean fare. The beloved Singaporean cafe's Palo Alto location shut its doors on December 26, with plans to reopen at Westfield Valley Fair Mall in San Jose. In a statement obtained by the San Francisco Chronicle, the legacy chain emphasized the local management's dedication to quality and their decision not to overextend their team with the move.
The cafe, famed for its kaya toast and laksa, had youths and old folks alike lining up out the door after its 2020 opening in downtown Palo Alto. According to the Chronicle, the excitement was high initially, with its culinary offerings quickly gaining recognition in the local food scene. The US franchisee, Amanda Toh Steckler, announced ambitious plans initially to rapidly expand the Killiney brand throughout the US, targeting 62 new outlets.
The restaurant group has slowed its expansion pace by adjusting its sails to ride out the economic headwinds. A representative told the Chronicle that despite the closures in Mountain View, Livermore, and Cupertino, they still have their eyes set on growth but with a more cautious approach. "There are still plans to expand but we are taking things slow," was the comment from the group, hinting at scaled-back ambitions in response to the economic climate.
Over on Instagram, the cafe addressed its customers directly, promising to continue serving their favorites in the new location. "Our flagship Killiney Kopitiam is moving to Westfield Valley Fair, 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd in Santa Clara. When? Spring 2024," they announced in an Instagram post. The cafe also wished its patrons a Happy New Year and reaffirmed its commitment to high-quality standards without quickly extending itself too thin.
