The buzz: You’ve probably already been to, or at least know about, their flagship outlet which relocated to ION a few years ago; if you haven’t, they’re the folks guilty of sparking the cupcake madness way back when. This is the hot younger sister, if you will, just five weeks old.
The vibe: As can be expected, this second outlet has a similar feel to the original (a bright and airy space with pale wood furniture and soft yellow lighting), but with a big one up: There’s none of that dreaded mall stigma, and the added bonus of a real alfresco area. Hidden away at the Bukit Timah Saddle Club, it inhabits the space of the old Mimolette, most recently Mimo Kitchen & Bar, so you know we aren’t exaggerating when we say it’s hidden.
The food: We spotted familiar classics, but also found fresh items to sample such as pan-seared halloumi with slices of roma tomatoes and watercress ($21) and Mexican chicken salad, with avos, salsa and crisp tortillas ($22). If you’re in need of something more filling, mains like steak and eggs on a bed of smashed peas ($38) and pastas (from $22) should do the trick. Don’t leave without at least grabbing a few cupcakes ($4.50) to devour on the go, or a sticky date and toffee pudding with vanilla bean ice cream ($14) for good measure. They do brunch on weekends, too.
The drinks: Pretty extensive really. There’s a range of alcohol-free options including fresh juices, shakes and smoothies (all $8-9)—with happy names like Hippy Shake and Pincher, as well as a selection of Gryphon teas ($6.50-7). For the booze hounds, they also have mostly New World wines (from $65/bottle) and a decent assortment of cocktails such as apple mint martini made with Belvedere ($18), and Marmalade iced tea spiked with gin, vodka, rum, tequila and Cointreau (also $18).
Why you’ll be back: For affordable comfort food that hits the spot. We’re warning you though, it’s a bitch to get out of here if you don’t drive. So make sure you’ve got your cab booking app poised and ready.
Eat this: Sticky date pudding. It’s one of I-S Magazine’s 50 things to eat in Singapore before you die (2012).
