Welcome to China Square Central.

Had been going around the Central Business District and got to learn about the opening of a new dining establishment named 聚飽堂 that is located around Nankin Row near 18 Cross — these folks can be found right beside MASHI NO MASHI. 聚飽堂 does look more like a mom-and-pop establishment as compared to most of the other dining establishments that are located along the same stretch and for good reason too — these folks do serve up fuss-free local Chinese fare which sets them apart from most of the other tenants in the area as well. 聚飽堂 has both indoor and outdoor dining areas — there is quite a good number of seating that allows even those whom are visiting the establishment in larger groups to dine together comfortably as well by combining some of the dining tables together. Focusing on noodle dishes, 聚飽堂 serves up variants of Lor Mee, Laksa and Spinach Soup; all of which are favourites for office workers in the Central Business District. They also do serve up Kaya Butter Toast for those whom are looking for a light traditional breakfast item to munch on as well.

The Chicken Cutlet Laksa is one of the variants of Laksa that 聚飽堂 serves up; whilst there is no description available on the elements that are being served up with the Laksa, it can be observed from our order that the Chicken Cutlet Laksa comes with the chicken cutlet being separate from the Laksa — the bowl of Laksa also features elements such as blood cockles, beancurd puff and fish cakes. One thing worth noting about the Laksa at 聚飽堂 is how they do allow patrons to opt for either thick rice noodles or thin rice noodles for their order; we went with the thick rice noodles for our order of the Chicken Cutlet Laksa. The Laksa gravy here is one of the more creamier ones that we have come across in a while; while the hint of rempah spices is definitely noticeable, we did enjoy the richness of the gravy that gave a pretty full-on flavour from the addition of coconut milk. The thick rice noodles also came with a smooth and silky texture that was easy to slurp up, while the blood cockles were pretty fresh and added a briny note to the laksa gravy; the beancurd puffs also soaked up the laksa gravy like a sponge and provided a burst of flavours when one bites into them. The chicken cutlet was pretty decent though nothing much to shout about here; a good-to-have for those whom are not particularly into prawns that is usually found in a typical bowl of Laksa.

The folks behind Hello Arigato are right at it again — they are definitely starting 2026 with a bit of a bang with the new opening of their Cross Street outlet that takes over the former premises of the now-defunct WANt Food Taiwanese Delights 恋恋湾味 there; this would be shop unit located at the corner that is also along the same stretch of shops where one can find other notable F&B establishments like the outlet of Wang Dae Bak Korean BBQ and Yanhuo Restaurant 烟伙餐馆. This is Hello Arigato’s smallest location thus far; whilst the entire operations at Cross Street does seem to be more catered towards takeaways, there is a small dine-in area where one can choose to still enjoy their food on the spot. Considering the slightly scaled down operations here, the food menu at this outlet is limited to offerings within the categories of Sandos, Sides, Dips, Matcha and Coffee and More.

The Bro Cali Sando is one of the new creations that has bene introduced to the menu at Hello Arigato’s Cross Street outlet — this is also the only vegetarian option when it comes to their Sando offerings. The menus describes the Bro Cali Sando to come with elements such as fried broccoli florets, miso teriyaki glaze, roasted pepper relish and Swiss cheese. Taking a bite into the Bro Cali Sando, we did notice that the bread used here is especially soft, light and fluffy — this would work especially for those whom are opting for the heftier and meatier sandos at Hello Arigato where the bread would not feel particularly overwhelming. The use of fried broccoli florets replaces the typical feature of meats in a Sando by giving it a substantial bite; the fried broccoli florets coming with charred florets that gives a bit of a crisp texture whilst elements such as the Swiss cheese does give a bit of an added savoury note to the Sando. What brings all of the elements together would be both the miso teriyaki glaze, roasted pepper relish — the former adding yet another dimension of sweet-savoury notes whilst the roasted pepper relish comes with a bit of a tang; adds up to provide for a umami note that made us finish the sandwich in no time.

Whilst the folks behind Dona Manis had recently opened their very own dine-in location at East Coast Road, we did notice for a while that one can also get to experience Auntie Peng’s Banana Pie in a dine-in setting as well. No doubt that none of Auntie Peng’s Banana Pie’s outlets are dine-in locations; that being said, it does seem that Yuan 原 within 18 Cross (formerly known as Cross Street Exchange) does serve up Auntie Peng’s Banana Pie’s banana pie in single slices that allows one to actually get to try Auntie Peng’s Banana Pie’s banana pie in a dine-in environment. There is also even a promotion where one could even pair up the banana pie with Kopi / Teh with an additional top-up of $1 atop the price of the slice of banana pie itself.

Auntie Peng’s Banana Pie’s banana pie does come with elements such as crushed almonds, grated coconut and hand-mashed bananas alongside the crust — this would be as per the illustration on the poster about the banana pie that could be found at Yuan 原. There is definitely some layers of complexity when it comes to the flavours of the entire banana pie; the first thing that strikes us would be the buttery notes within the crust of the pie that makes it especially fragrant, while the crushed almonds over the top provides and extra element of crunch. The inclusion of grated coconuts does help to further enhance the flavours of the crushed almonds by providing another dimension of fragrance to the nuttiness of the almonds — all that whilst not feeling particularly overwhelming and definitely did not steal the thunder away from the hand-mashed bananas that comes with a bit of a bite and a hint of natural sweetness. Overall, a banana pie that feels pretty well-rounded from the various elements that have been included within.

[TELOK AYER, SINGAPORE] I'm back again at @amigos.sg for their newly refreshed menu to try some of their dishes and soak in the vibes. While I believe some dishes can be improved, the overall experience was decent.

Let's start with basics with their Fried Barramundi Tacos 🌮 ($18 for 2). Now this was a hit, as the fish fingers were still really crispy, with a meaty, flaky fish meat within. Sauces and condiments complemented the main fish ingredient well, with savoury, tangy flavours going on with a slight kick.

If you need something to share, I would pick their Fried Calamari 🦑 ($16). Each piece was nicely coated with a slightly crispy batter, and the squid within was fresh, has a bite but not chewy at all. I would imagine this being wolfed down within minutes. Their Loaded Nachos 🌽 ($18) unfortunately did not quite deliver, as it was somewhat cold or lukewarm. I was hopefully there was melted cheese as well. Chicken on top did not have much of a taste too!

Their Camaron Quesadillas 🌮 ($14) is of an interesting take, with mango salsa taking quite a front lead in providing sweetness. The cheese and grilled snappy prawns within are savoury. This becomes quite a sweet-savoury combo which my partner likes but I would prefer going for their more savoury options. I can imagine this being divided in opinions!

Drinks are of course important in a bar, and their Frozen Raspberry Magherita 🍸 ($15) and Shirley Temple Mocktail 🍹 ($10) delivered. The Magherita itself did not seem strong, but it kicked it later towards the 2nd half of the meal 😂 Mocktail was really refreshing and I'm glad it was quite a big cup!

In all, food was generally decent, though I wouldn't say really mind blowing. Music was great too. With happy hour promos this can be a place for you to have some quick bites and alcohol to relax right after work!

[Media Invite]

Percolate has always been one of those establishments that has a place in our hearts — whilst they had closed down their humble space at Bedok where the brand has been rooted in since the very start of their journey in the F&B scene, the brand is now attempting to get closer to the heart of town with its recent opening of a takeaway kiosk at the basement of TANGS Plaza that is more of a coffee stand catered for takeaways. They have also found home in a shophouse unit located along Nankin Row in Telok Ayer / Chinatown — these folks are located right beside a 7-11 store where one can find an outlet of Toast Box; they are also diagonally across the road from the Far East Square outlet of Ya Kun Kaya Toast that is often mentioned as the “original store”. The brand has seen a bit of a revitalisation with its change of logo; but whilst carrying a sense of freshness with a cleaner and more minimalistic appearance within the space that it now calls home, there is still a sense of familiarity with regulars of its Bedok space — the layout of the space replicates how the Bedok location was segmented out with smaller tables located on the right side of the space, while the middle of the shop still sees the use of a communal table albeit missing of the wall that was converted into an arch over the communal table (that wall at Bedok used to divide across two separate half-sized shop units). The entire left side of the space is now dedicated to the retail of coffee-related wares and equipment; the whole shop decked with furniture and fittings of a wooden accent that is a shade lighter than what was used previously at Bedok for a brighter look. Dining tables are arranged in a configuration that would fit around two (2) to four (4) pax, with the exception of one table that would fit a group of six (6) pax and the communal table that can accommodate even larger a group. Percolate intends for their location at Nankin Row to still deliver the full dine-in cafe experience that their Bedok space was all about; the food menu at the Nankin Row space still features light bites even for its savoury dishes though the menu seems to have evolved to not only comprise of sweet and savoury croissant items, but also croissants served with seafood pairings. Apart from these, Percolate also serves up small cakes and a variety of danishes that are all displayed prominently at the counter; the Bittersweet which is a brownie-ice cream-espresso hybrid also is offered at Nankin Row as well. Beverages are mostly centred around their specialty coffee offerings that consists of espresso-based and filter options, as well as iced teas and drinking chocolate.

Noticing how the Seafood Pairings section of the menu is an entirely new section of offerings that Percolate is serving up at their Nankin Row location, we found ourselves gravitating towards the Octopus in Garlic Sauce. Percolate mentions on their menu that the items listed in the Seafood Pairings section of the menu comes with Ati Manel-branded canned seafood that is sourced from Portugal, and that all items in the Seafood Pairings section of the menu comes with a toasted croissant — notably observed from our order of the Octopus in Garlic Sauce would also be an olive and a pickle, while it also does come with a square of unsalted butter as well. In typical thoughtful fashion that one would experience at Percolate, the toasted croissant is already sliced into four (4) pieces for easy consumption — what impresses us is how the croissant still manages to hold up its shape without looking “pressed down” despite being sliced; the insides revealing the air pockets from the lamination process whilst being crisp, light, flaky and buttery. Spreading it with the unsalted butter provides a buttery touch; all that without adding yet another dimension of saltishness that would inadvertently pile up with the inherent buttery notes of the croissant otherwise. Nonetheless, the highlight would definitely be the Ati Manel-branded canned Octopus in Garlic Sauce — no doubt intimidating at first look, but we liked how there is a fragrant savoury note that is slightly briny and garlicky within the oil that the octopus sits within. The octopus does carry a firm bite but was otherwise not rubbery at all; the savoury oils does work well for those whom prefer their croissants slightly saltier. The pickle and olives act as a palate cleanser that takes away the saltish notes with a briny and tangy note with a zing and a bit of crunch (in the case of the pickle).

It is known that Percolate does source their bakes from external sources but we have had always enjoyed the various cakes that they have to offer. We went with our all-time favourite Earl Grey Lavender Cake and the cake was adequately dense and moist; already wafting with a fragrant aroma of Earl Grey Tea, there is the additional floral aroma from the dried lavender petals that came atop. The Earl Grey Lavender Cake also came with an icing sugar glazing over the top that gives it an added sweetness which we found to be pretty apt when had together with everything else. The Espresso Tonic is also not a stranger to us considering how we have had the item several times during our past visits to Percolate since their days at Bedok. Their Espresso Tonic does come with sufficient carbonation; all that whilst coming with sufficient caffeinated kick and is quite a perk-me-up that comes with a slightly zing. Having started off from just a very small space in the heartlands, it seems that Percolate is finally scaling up — not just only by moving themselves to the heart of town, but also operating two (2) spaces whilst at it with one that targets those whom are doing quick grab-and-gos. Whilst furthering their sights for the brand’s future, Percolate still attempts to stay true to their character from the very start — the Nankin Row outlet still reminds regulars of “home” almost like a tribute for those whom have supported them during the days of their first expansion to the shop unit right beside their original in Bedok; the food still being close to what one would think about when the name “Percolate” is being mentioned. Whilst prices of the items listed in the Seafood Pairings section of the menu are slightly higher-priced ranging from $13.90 to $17.90; the lowest-priced being the Sardines in Olive Oil & Lemon while the priciest is the Octopus in Garlic Sauce that we went for, savoury croissants like the Garlic Cheese / Hae Bee Hiam / Ham & Cheese Croissant is priced from $8.50 to $9.50. Glad to have been sticking around these guys along with their journey in the local F&B scene all these while; here’s hoping for more good times with the brand in the years to come as they evolve further with the times!

[RAFFLES PLACE, SINGAPORE] Right smack in the heart of the bar area in CBD is a new Mexican bar that you need to try at least once. With daily 1 for 1 alcohol promo (that amount to just $6/glass for some spirits 🤯) and quality food, you may be just a few metres away from a good evening.

We started with their Frozen Margheritas 🍸 ($14) and they were absolutely refreshing. The calamansi one was my go-to with nice citrusy notes. This drink is dangerous, as I didn't taste the alcohol much but it kicked it late but strong towards the end of the cup 🤣

To pair with your alcohol, you need some good sides, and their Fried Cauliflower 🥦 ($8) might be your choice item. Light crispy batter with a soft creamy inside, this was hella addictive and I found myself digging deep into the homemade coriander chilli crema too.

Now when it comes to the mains, you NEED to get their Quesadilla de Cameron 🌮 ($14). Full of cheese, this was so satisfying and filled with ingredients. The prawns within were snappy, and the mango salsa gave it a touch of sweetness that helped to cut through the richness.

Out of all the tacos we've had, the Tacos de Pascado 🐟 ($18 for 2) seemed to be the crowd favourite. Tender, succulent meaty fish chunks, and rich and tangy salsa and sauces really went well together to form a satisfying bite.

At such a prime location, relatively abundant seats for groups and great happy hours, you are bound to have a great time here. Thank you @amigos.sg for inviting and for the wonderful meal 😍

[Raffles Place, Singapore 🇸🇬]

Recently visited Kin Kao Mai, which was located a short distance from the MRT station. Although it not enclosed, the place was cooling and well ventilated. As my mom preferred non spicy, the dishes were requested to be non spicy or less spicy, which the staff took note of.

Kin Kao Mai Special Platter (S$58++)
Giant prawn, squid, prawn cake, moo ping, mango salad
Served with 3 different sauces : sweet chilli sauce for the prawn cake, spicy seafood sauce for the seafood, and a tangy sauce for meat skewer
The squid was smoky chewy, while the huge prawn was smoky juicy. Love the tangy mango salad!

Pla Neung Manao (S$35++)
Steamed sea bass with lime and garlic
The fish was chunky and fresh.

Tom Kha Gai (S$12++)
Thai chicken in coconut soup
Light milky soup with tender meat.

Khao Pad Sappared (S$14++)
Pineapple fried rice with prawns
Packed with pieces of pineapples, raisins and cashew nuts.

Wash down the meal with a refreshing glass of Peach Frizzy (S$4.80++)

Kin Kao Mai @kinkaomainankin @kinkaomai.sg
Address 🛖 : 3 Pickering Street, # 01-34/35 Nankin Row, Singapore 🇸🇬 048660
Open 🕰️ :
Mon - Fri : 11.30am - 2.30pm, 5.30pm - 10.30pm
Sat : 11.30am - 10.30pm
MRT 🚇 : Raffles Place (NS26/ EW14)

Other outlets :
🛖 43 Admiralty Road West, # 02-01 Sembawang Yatch Club, Singapore 🇸🇬 759962
🛖 The Grassroots’ Club, Singapore 🇸🇬 568046
🛖 50 Punggol East, Singapore 🇸🇬 828826

(Hot - $4.90) I never drink hot version for chagee b4 but then it taste a bit different. I can taste much peach and black tea than milk.

Honestly, I was expecting a pricier range of bakes from the newest @thetestkitchen.sg @thelimskitchen! But with their TTK Egg Tart costing $2.90, it really felt like a steal, especially with the prices these days and with the general quality of the pastries. Think sweet, soft egg custard with a super flaky and buttery crust—similar to those viral HK egg tarts. I love how light and thin the layered pastry was and the caramelised edges of the tart.

I also got the Truffle Tamago Cronigiri ($4.50) for a slightly more savoury hit. The pastry was crisp-flaky and had a decent amount of egg filling in the center. The whiff of truffle was distinctive enough, though I certainly would enjoy a stronger earthy punch. I love the sesame seed studded exterior as it really added that fragrance. However, I would have preferred the pastry to be lighter or thinner (not sure if it is such to hold its shape as it is my first time having the triangle-shaped hybrid croissant).

One of the F&B-related news that had been floating around the local cafe-hopping scene in recent times would be the opening of The Test Kitchen at 18 Cross (formerly known as Cross Street Exchange, or even further back as China Square Central). We had been passing by the hoardings of the establishment for quite a while now during their renovation phase — these folks had finally opened their doors following a slightly delayed launch as per what was reported in the media. For those whom are unaware, The Test Kitchen is a concept by the same folks behind the online-based The Lim’s Kitchen; The Lim’s Kitchen being affiliated with local celebrity Rebecca Lim and her older brother. The Test Kitchen takes up the former space that used to house an outlet of Maison Kayser within the mall; the shop unit being located right beside the window that faces out towards Cross Street. One can find the range of pastries of which The Test Kitchen has to offer being displayed prominently at the entrance; the dine-in space will be towards the right of the counter where one can also find the espresso bar — the dine-in space comprises of a mix of proper dining tables and high tables with seating capacity of each table being configured nicely for patrons arriving in pairs to up to group sizes of four (4) pax. The Lim’s Kitchen was previously noted for their danishes and sourdoughs; that being said, The Test Kitchen has expanded their range of food items to include that of Mezze Bowls to complement their variety of bakes. Beverages available at The Test Kitchen would include espresso-based specialty coffee, teas and non-sparkling and sparkling fruit juices.

Considering how we were dropping by The Test Kitchen during weekday lunch hours, we found ourselves wanting to opt for something sweet whilst going for their Mezze Bowls. One thing peculiar that we had found about The Test Kitchen is how they are using disposable ware for all orders be it dine-in or takeaway. Whilst we do not have much to comment on about the use of disposable ware considering the fast-paced lunch hour crush that dining establishments often face during lunch peak hours, packing pastries into a takeaway box that needs to be folded for dine-in patrons does seem to be a little counter-intuitive as compared to a disposable plate. The TTK Egg Tart does seem like an item that is of a signature of The Test Kitchen especially since the namesake of the item does carry the initials of the shop itself. One can observe how the TTK Egg Tart is one that is of the trendier sort that can be found in more hipster and individually-run bakeries that had opened in recent times; the TTK Egg Tart coming with danish-esquire tart base that is light and crispy with a lingering hint of buttery fragrance. As one sinks their teeth into the TTK Egg Tart, the pastry shatters neatly, all that whilst revealing the warm, moist and jiggly egg curd within. The egg curd itself does come with a degree of sweetness on its own, but it also hints of an egginess amidst the sweetness; there are parts of the TTK Egg Tart where caramelisation had occured with the egg curd during the baking process — further adds on to the contrast of flavours of the TTK Egg Tart.

For those looking for something more substantial to have at The Test Kitchen whilst giving their various bakes and danishes a go, they do offer a small line-up of Mezze Bowls where on can opt for various add-ons that would introduce a meat element to them that makes the Mezze Bowls more filling as well — add-ons which are offered by The Test Kitchen will include items like the Chicken Yakitori, Roasted Wagyu Beef Rump, Sliced Slow Cooked Turkey Breast and Onsen Egg. Between the Cauliflower Mezze Bowl and the Mushroom Mezze Bowl, our choice was for the latter and we did not opt for any of the add-ons that they have to offer — instead wanting to give their default Mushroom Mezze Bowl a try. The menu at The Test Kitchen describes the Mushroom Mezze Bowl to come with elements such as sautéed blend of mushrooms, kale, quinoa salad, chickpea hummus, and toasted sourdough. Patrons do get a choice to opt for their Mushroom Mezze Bowl to come spicy or non-spicy; we went for the former. This does turn out to be quite a light eat considering how there are more kale and other leafy greens than there is quinoa; leaves up with sufficient space to try out their other offerings such as the various danishes that they have to offer — we did find it a pity that much of the hummus can be found at the bottom of the bowl, which would have been a good match with their sourdough toast where we could easily top it off with some hummus, leafy greens and mushrooms that would have been especially hearty. The sautéed blend of mushrooms provided an earthy note, while the kale adds a crisp crunch — the chickpea hummus being the element that seemingly binds everything together, while one can also find nibs of pomegranate seeds that adds a slight zing and a sweetness that runs at the back of the tongue for some flavour contrast. The sourdough toast were also pretty much on point; crusty on the exterior whilst the bread itself comes with a tension when one attempts to chew them apart — also came with a slightly sourish tang that one would expect from the fermentation process as part of the making of the sourdough.

During the same visit, we had also managed to try out one of the two (2) Rondos which they have stocked up in the display case on the day of our visit — between the Milo Rondo and the Salted Egg Rondo, our choice was for the latter especially given our love for all things salted egg. The Rondo is pretty much a rendition of a danish where the dough is rolled pretty much like how a typical Kouign Amann is, but one that comes taller than the standard Kouign Amann whilst also having a smaller circumference as well. Their Rondos do come in the form of a filled pastry, where one can find fillings stuffed in the middle of the pastry. The Salted Egg Rondo does come with salted egg paste that comes atop the pastry and also within the pastry; slicing the Salted Egg Rondo apart, one can also observe the lamination of the dough which creates that layered look of the pastry within — the pastry was light, flaky and subtly buttery whereby it didn’t feel too heavy nor greasy to have. Interestingly, the salted egg filling is done in a way that is closer to that of a paste rather than a molten lava filling; itself not being too greasy but does carry familiar notes of sweet-savouriness which attempts to replicate the flavours of molten salted egg lava in molten salted egg lava custard buns typically served up at dim sum specialty restaurants. Whilst the Salted Egg Rondo does initially sound like quite a heavy item to have on paper, it does turn out to be quite manageable overall.

We also paired everything up with the White Coffee (Hot); pretty much the same as what other establishments would call the Flat White or Latte. We did feel that the White Coffee (Hot) to be pretty decent coming out from an establishment that focuses on their danish and bakes — one that is medium-bodied whilst carrying an earthy and nutty flavour profile. In all, The Test Kitchen is pretty much an extension of what The Lim’s Kitchen; the star items at The Test Kitchen are undoubtedly their range of danishes. That being said, it does seem that these folks had placed a lot of emphasis to create items such as that of the Mezze Bowls that somehow works hand-in-hand with what they are best known for. The quality of their Mezze Bowls also do match that of their bakes — very thoughtful, wholesome and hearty items that would have really hit the spot if they had used proper dining ware with some thought placed in the plating of the dishes. Overall, a spot that would likely find its way to the list of places to check out for avid cafe-hoppers — also looking forward to when they will start weekend brunch service as well!

So lucky to have passed by on the one day they were having a special 50% off mains grand opening promotion, so of course we had to pivot from our original lunch plans.

Restaurant ambience was very on point - think Chinese motifs and themed decor all around, while leaning towards a chic and classy ambience. Think the space would become even more vibey and atmospheric come dinner time, perfect for gatherings and dates.

We ordered the Dry Pot Cabbage with Chinese Bacon ($18) as well as the Pineapple La Zi Ji ($28). Cabbage was perfectly charred with a nice crunch and a touch of its natural sweetness, nicely complementing the saltiness of the bacon as well as the creeping zing of the dried chilli. Pair this with a bowl of their Wuchang Rice ($2), and I guarantee you'll be mopping up every last bit.

As for the laziji, I'm convinced this is one of the better laziji I've ever eaten - the chicken chunks were so tender and the batter was so light and crunchy which altogether made for an extraordinarily addictive dish. The sweet pineapples and crisp cashew nuts also provided contrasting tastes and textures which completed the whole dish. Delicious!

Washed it all down with a glass of Green Snow ($9) which was Silver Needle White Tea with notes of Green Apple, Lemon, and Mint. Tastes slightly like the Pokka Sparkling Apple drink and I thought they could be a little bit more generous with the portion to match its price (might as well head to the nearby Chagee for a cheaper drink with similar quality).

One of the few F&B-related news that had been floating around recently which is hard to miss would be the opening of the new Burnt Ends Bakery outlet at 18 Cross; Cross Street Exchange had been through quite a bit of revamp for a while, and the building is now named as 18 Cross which also houses the new Audi dealership within its grounds. The new Audi dealership does echo a little bit of what Porsche has done in the past with its dealership at Guoco Midtown — this is a shift by the automaker to move its retail into its direct operations. Much like Porsche at Guoco Midtown which houses its own Carrera Cafe that is operated by Baker & Cook, the new Audi dealership at 18 Cross also has its own cafe operations which is run in collaboration with Burnt Ends Bakery on-site. The space where Burnt Ends Bakery occupies within the dealership is seamlessly integrated with the entire dealership, with the service counter being the centrepiece to the F&B operation; whilst there are some dining tables situated around the side that extends towards the main dealership, one can also sit by the high tables by the window to enjoy the view along the walkway by the street. Perhaps notable for their donut offerings, Burnt Ends Bakery offers a variety of different bakes and cakes at their outlet in the Audi dealership at 18 Cross; savoury options for food will include pies, sandwiches and pizzas — there are some outlet exclusives that are solely offered here as an effort by Burnt Ends Bakery to offer items that speaks in the same tune of Audi’s roots as a German brand. Beverages include espresso-based specialty coffee brewed using Burnt Ends’ very own Slayer blend, as well as tea, juices and a line-up of Signature Beverages as well.

Dropping by Burnt Ends Bakery for lunch on a weekday, we found ourselves opting for one of the two different variation of pizzas that they have to offer since we were looking for something that is savoury, but also lighter less filling as compared to the sandwich offerings that they have to offer. The pizzas are sliced into rectangles here, and we found ourselves opting for the Pork Trotter one which we thought was rather interesting and pretty much an item that sounded in-tune to giving homage to Audi’s German roots. Burnt Ends Bakery doesn’t describe the elements that they have included in their food items on the display cards places in front of the items at the counter, that being said, one can observe from our order of the Pork Trotter Pizza that it comes with elements such as a tomato-based sauce, cheese as well as small chunks of pork trotter speckled around the entire slice. The Pork Trotter Pizza is served up as-is; one thing to note about the pizza crust is how it does seem like it has employed the use of a sourdough crust that comes all fluffy and light — not too dense, while still carried a bit of a springy texture that seemingly holds up well to each bite. The tomato-based sauce provided a tanginess with a note of herbs that complemented that of the savoury cheese, which in turn worked well with the tender chunks of pork trotter that provided a meatiness without any undesirable porky odour. Given how the Black Forest Donut is an outlet-exclusive here at the Burnt Ends Bakery in the Audi dealership at 18 Cross Street, we also had to give the item a go.

The Black Forest Donut is served chilled, and kept in a display chiller with the cakes that is separate from the rest of the donuts that they offer — the Black Forest Donut stands out for how it comes with a chocolate-infused bread though we did feel that the bread here does come more bun-like being more dense and less light and fluffy compared to the other Bombolone-style donuts that Burnt Ends Bakery has to offer. Piped with a white chocolate cream on the top, the cream bears a different sweetness to the regular chocolate cream that is piped into the donut as a filling; there is also an alcohol-infused cherry that sits in the middle of the donut hidden amidst the white chocolate cream that adds a boozy touch to the donut — something that made it truly replicate the notes of Blackforest Cake that the donut wouldn’t have been if it came without.

We had also went for the Piccolo during the same visit to go along with the bakes that we had ordered. Brewed using the Slayer blend that is roasted by themselves, the Slayer blend features Colombian, Peruvian and Brazilian beans and is described to come with tasting notes of chocolate, hazelnut, stonefruit and honey. The Piccolo is quite a strong cuppa with a bold body — one that comes with an earthy and nutty flavour profile that works as a good perk-me-up. Considering the difference between the operating style and locations of Burnt Ends Bakery at its Dempsey spot and its new set-up within the Audi dealership at 18 Cross Street, there is certainly a different vibe that one can expect between the two — the Dempsey location is one that is more laid-back, whilst the outlet within the Audi dealership feels a little more posh given the surroundings that it is enclosed in. Whilst we would still prefer the wider variety of items that are available at their Dempsey location alongside the chill and relaxed vibes whilst dining in a patio-esque setup, the Audi dealership location at 18 Cross Street does appear as the more convenient spot to head to for those dying resolve some serious cravings for their donuts, as well as one that office workers around the Central Business District would be quite excited about having right at their doorstep!