Always intrigued whenever the favourite place lists something new on their POS system every now and then — it has almost come to a point that it is a little bit like a hunt for Easter eggs that we had not recalled seeing in the menu during the prior week. Still glad that they are still consistently churning up specials and new items every now and then nonetheless.

The Burnt Sugar Vanilla Custard Pudding is essentially what one would call the Purin (i.e. Japanese Custard Pudding) — some would also relate it to a Flan / Creme Custard. Whilst looking like a simple dessert item, it seems like the folks at Brawn & Brains have gotten the intricacies of the dessert just right — that smooth, silken custard that hints lightly of a fragrance of vanilla beans just hits the spot; so soft and wobbly and done just right. This differs from that of some of the Flan / Creme Custard that we had come across that is a little overdone — a bit too stiff and comes with air pockets; and if the custard is done correctly, similar dishes from of other establishments tend to come with caramel that lacks complexity. The one here at Brawn & Brains differs from those, with the bitter undertones of the burnt sugar being really evident and brought about the flavours contrast the pudding needs – all that with the top of the pudding having absorbed those notes from the burnt sugar as well. A dessert that we would gladly pair with the Espresso Tonic; a refreshing concoction featuring tonic water, a shot of espresso and a wedge of lemon that is zippy, slightly sweet and fizzy — totally compliments the Burnt Sugar Vanilla Custard Pudding. Now planning on when is a good time to give the Matcha & Banana Slice a go …