Probably starting this off with a disclaimer that this would be more of an introductory post to this new spot that had seemingly sprouted up recently at Sycamore Tree at Joo Chiat Road — we dropped by the new Baguette & Coffee at Sycamore Tree recently after going past it on one occasion over the weekend; had to made a mental note to return considering how we are pretty much into Banh Mi and it has always been exciting to give such new Banh Mi-centric spots a visit. Turns out, Baguette & Coffee has yet to officially open its doors; slated to officially open only on 20 September 2023, we visited it during its soft launch phase — this also meant that they were carrying limited items on the menu which are slightly different from what they intend to serve when they fully launch. For starters, Sycamore Tree is the mixed development which comprises of both residential and commercial units located just diagonally across Joo Chiat Community Club — the development had been under construction for quite a long while with a back story to it, though we would probably leave it to oneself to find out more if they wish. Baguette & Coffee is positioned more towards being a takeaway-centric eatery — that being said, there are three seats at the high table situated around the windows and walls for those whom intend to dine-in. There are some rather interesting references made on the paper bags used at Baguette & Coffee that refers to an E&J Aesthetics Pte Ltd that does not seem like there is anything quite related to F&B; looking past that however, it does seem that the menu at Baguette & Coffee is quite varied considering how it comprises of items from Banh Mi and Vietnamese breadsticks to Vietnamese spring rolls and even pizza. Beverages available at Baguette & Coffee includes ice-blended drinks, fruit tea, sodas and Vietnamese coffee.

Considering how they were not yet officially launched when we had made our visit on a weekday evening, Baguette & Coffee was only serving breadsticks comprising of a variety of random fillings that are not listed as a combination in their menu. Interestingly, the staff behind the counter coined these breadsticks as “Mini Baguettes”. For those whom are familiar with Vietnamese fare or had been to Vietnam before, these breadsticks are typically sold in bundles of usually five or more per serving; often comes with more basic fillings such as that of meat pate and a few other variations especially considering the size and how it would not really hold much in between anyway. We were initially bummed by the fact that these were prepared way beforehand — a big no-no for us considering how Banh Mi that are left out in the open for too long tend to be a little limp and lacks crispness. Surprisingly, these bread sticks despite its chewiness, still delivered a bit of a crunch — the savouriness of the cured meats with the mayonnaise and shredded pork skin gave it a savoury and umami note that was fairly satisfying to say the least. We also gave their Salted Coffee a go — we initially wanted to go for the Egg Coffee but this seemed to be strongly recommended by the folks behind the counter; not sure if it was just us making an order for something time-consuming at an inconvenient time — that aside, the salted coffee seemed to be Vietnamese Iced Coffee with condensed milk that comes with a slightly saltish cream cheese foam on the top. It might sound odd on first impression, but it comes together as a sweet-salty combination with a caffeinated punch that we just cannot get enough of. We also tried the Custard Pudding; yet another creation that was pretty on-point being all smooth, jiggly and custardy — the reasonably sweet and eggy notes matched against that bitter undertones of the caramel underneath. Looking forward to give them a try again for their Banh Mi after they officially open their doors especially considering all that we have tried thus far!