Knots Café and Living—a garden-themed cafe in Tai Seng—is opening its second outlet in the South of Singapore.

The new space is located at 102E Pasir Panjang Road, near to the former space vacated by the now-defunct Habitat by honestbee.

For those of you who haven’t been to Knots Café and Living before, it is an unassuming floral café opened by Xpressflower.com which is located amidst the bustling area of Tai Seng.

At first glance, you’d think Knots Cafe & Living is just a well-furbished furniture store. And, you wouldn’t be wrong. But, what do you know—they serve decent cafe food as well! Behind their mystical garden theme and woody aesthetic, their hidden kitchen dishes up classic brunch and Western fare.

Opt for a waffle twist to your usual brunch affair with the Knots Waffle Brekkie, which comes with smoked beef sausage, sautéed mushrooms and scrambled eggs. The Fish & Chips is a recommended dish as well which sees thick dory fillets breaded and fried to a golden crisp.

Have a cup of coffee, read a book or catch up with work while you are there.

The new Knots Café and Living outlet at Pasir Panjang Road is expected to open by mid Oct 2021 and it will feature a similar food menu but with more refined options.

There will also be a wider selection of wines available. They have plans to have an outdoor al fresco dining area, but it is still pending approval from the building’s management.

Kindly note that the photos are taken from Knots Café and Living’s current outlet at 160 Paya Lebar Road.

Knots Café and Living
102E Pasir Panjang Road
Singapore 118529

Nestled on the 8th level of Hillview Building at 48 Hillview Terrace, Coexist Coffee Co is a new hidden rooftop cafe with a striking red and white interior.

It has officially opened its doors to the public on 29 June 2021 and there’s an opening promotion of 10% off your bill from now until 9 July 2021.

The cafe is located on the rooftop of an industrial building in Hillview and it has a great view of the surrounding greenery.

On the menu, Coexist Coffee Co serves a selection of mains and all-day breakfast that are priced between S$14 to S$26 each.

Some of the more interesting dishes include:

• Rendang Wagyu Beef Burger (S$22)
• Sambal Fish & Chips (S$20)
• Seafood Coconut Broth (S$18)
• Bao Benedict (S$14)
• Kaya French Toast (S$16)

Photos credit: Coexist Coffee Co

Coexist Coffee Co provides an escape from the busy everyday life and it is a great addition to the growing list of cafes in the west of Singapore.

To reach the cafe, you will need to take the elevator to the 7th floor and climb the stairs up to the 8th floor.

Coexist Coffee Co.
Hillview Building
48 Hillview Terrace
Singapore 669269

Cake lovers, rejoice! A new parlour has opened. Located in the heart of Toa Payoh, The Twisted Trio is currently in its soft launch stage, but it is set for a grand opening this Sunday. It is a 5 to 10-minute walk from the MRT.

This new, modern cafe is founded by 3 pastry chefs (with 3 different personalities, thus the name!) who initially worked together before deciding to open their own dessert shop with cakes that cater to all tastebuds.

The chilled desserts include the Watermelon Rose ($8) and Burnt Cheesecake ($7). As the founders wish to accommodate to the tastebuds of the local elderly in the neighbourhood, the cakes are not too overwhelmingly rich and sweet, with lesser cream. So you don’t have to feel sinful while enjoying the treats here.

We definitely recommend the Watermelon Rose due to its unique floral taste. The pastry cream is fluffy and not too rich. The fruits on top and the watermelon layer add a refreshing bite to the cake. Put these two together, and you have a modern, novel take to the usual cake.

However, we feel that the Burnt Cheesecake could have been more charred. Nevertheless, it was still light, spongy, and not extremely sweet. Perfect for a not-so-heavy dessert after a hearty dinner.

As for the desserts that were displayed out in room temperature, we tried the Dark & Milk Choc Brownie ($4). The brownie was crumbly and delicious, with a special blend of both dark and milk chocolate. This definitely goes on our best brownie spots in Singapore list.

We spotted a variety of room-temperature desserts, including Pound Cakes ($12) with flavours such as Earl Grey, Banana, and Matcha. Banana Muffins ($2.50), Scones ($3), and Orange Yogurt cakes ($4) are also displayed. This cafe really leaves you spoiled for choice. And if that isn’t enough, you can also place an order for your very own customized cakes in this cafe.

Feast your eyes and tastebuds on the various desserts offered at this mini parlour, and you will not be disappointed. Pair your dessert of choice with a coffee, and your sweet tooth cravings will definitely be satisfied.

The Twisted Trio
Blk 85C Lorong 4 Toa Payoh #01-384
Singapore 313085
Mon – Fri: 10.30am – 6.30pm
Sat – Sun: 9.30am – 6.30pm
Nearest MRT: Toa Payoh

Run by the same guys behind the now-defunct Ronin and Punch at North Canal Road, Gather is their new concept at Raffles Hotel Arcade that opened its doors on the 1st of February.

Gather serves both sweet and savoury French crêpes, sandwiches, baked goods, coffee and other beverages. Being a treat loved by most, crêpes are no stranger to us, but what makes Gather stand out amongst the rest? Read on to find out!

Being situated in a British colonial designed building, Gather boasts an old-school charm. The simple interior and open concept was inviting and comfortable;  it is a cosy place to unwind and spend some private time.

They have a merchandise corner as well for those who might be interested in take-homes such as soap, fragrance oil and so on.

We had the Parma Ham (S$18) that came with Italian parma ham, Gruyère, cheddar and egg. It was absolutely delightful with a crispy outer layer and when layered and folded, it had a chewy and fluffy texture. The parma ham and cheeses paired well with the light batter, while the egg in the middle helped to reduce the saltiness.

You’d expect this combination to be too overwhelming with sodium that it might be cloyingly sick but we promise you, it isn’t.

You get to witness the skilful crêpe making process over the counter as they freshly prepare it upon ordering at their open-concept kitchen.

Currently, they have six types of savoury and three types of sweet crêpes on their menu. Main or dessert, up to you!

Breakfast is never complete without a cuppa. The White (S$5 for 5oz) had a nice froth and was fragrant, but no wow-factor from it nor a differentiating flavour from other coffee shops. Still, it is a decent cup of coffee for a casual caffeine fix.

The crêpe itself was enough to make us want to revisit this cafe again. Good ambience and great hospitality from the staff there! They were really cheerful, welcoming and polite, constantly making sure everything was of satisfaction and made appropriate recommendations.

Also, they are still in their soft launch period until the 5th of February where payment is by a tipping basis to pay-as-you-like. Give these guys a visit ASAP for some great food and vibes!

Gather
328 North Bridge Road
#01-12 Raffles Hotel Arcade
Singapore 188719
Mon to Sat: 8am to 10pm
Sun: 8am to 6pm

Treasure hunts are always fun, especially if it’s for good food! Well, we now have a new quest for you hungry foodies with an insatiable sweet tooth.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the best hidden patisseries and bakeries in Singapore that serve up really amazing pastries, cakes and bakes! Here’s a treasure hunt for the grown-ups and for those who simply love good desserts.

P.S. You might just develop an even sweeter tooth for the finer bakes in life after this!

CIEL PATISSERIE

A heartland patisserie that boasts a menu of French desserts, Ciel Patisserie is a hidden gem. Unassuming but very surprising, this small patisserie has a wholesome range of cakes and tarts that are mostly priced under S$6.

We have said this before and we will say this again—Ciel Patisserie’s Lemon Meringue Tart (S$4.50) stands out for its perfect balance of sweet and tart.

124 Hougang Avenue 1
#01-1444, 530124
Tel: +65 6383 0803
Tue to Thu: 11am – 8pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 9pm
Sun: 3pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Serangoon

Photo Credit: Instagram

DONA MANIS CAKE SHOP

Tucked away in Katong Shopping Centre is Dona Manis, one of Singapore’s traditional bakeries. Famed for their sweet Banana Pies, it’s a must-visit if you have a penchant for good ol’ day bakeries! Other than their pies, try their rich Chocolate Tarts (S$4.50 for 5) or their fluffy Cream Puffs (S$3.50 for 5)!

865 Mountbatten Road
#B1-93, Katong Shopping Centre
Singapore 437844
Mon: 9am – 5pm
Tue to Sat: 9am – 6pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: Instagram

FOLKS & STORIES

Specializing in all sorts of cookies with quirky toppings and infusions is Folks & Stories. Their humble storefront is neatly nestled away in the quiet streets of Queenstown. Set up by SMU Alumnus Jody Ang, each cookie has distinct and unique personalities.

Their range of cookies (S$3.50) include the Quirky Tastemaker (Rosemary Dark Chocolate), the Curious Merrymaker (Cream Cheese Dark Chocolate) and the Inquisitive Wanderer (Green Tea White Chocolate).

Block 163 Stirling Road, #01-1238
Singapore 140163
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 6pm
Sat: 10.30am – 4.30pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Queenstown

FREDO’S BAKER

Settled snugly in Sunset Way is Fredo’s Baker. This fairly new kid on the block features a delectable selection of pastries, cakes and tarts that are made with quality ingredients and the utmost passion from its pastry chef and owner, Alfred Chan.

We especially loved their Yuzu Meringue Tart (S$8.50)! While the yuzu creamy custard can come across overtly sour on its own, the sweetness of the meringue helped to counteract its tartness, which resulted in an all-round refreshing after-taste.

Block 109, #01-05
Clementi Street 11
Singapore 120109
Mon to Sat: 8am – 8pm
Sun & Public Holiday: 8am – 6pm
Nearest station: Clementi

KURA

Tucked away in The Herencia at Kim Yam Road is Kura that serves up delectable Japanese pastries at wallet-friendly prices. Even so, they don’t compromise on quality and offer up some mouthwatering cakes.

Kura’s Tiramisu (S$4) is an absolute must-try! It’s a mix of coffee-soaked sponge and mascarpone cream sitting inside a mini dark chocolate cup. The mascarpone filling was light – not too creamy nor heavy. You’ll finish this in mere minutes!

46 Kim Yam Road
The Herencia
Singapore 239351
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: 9.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Fort Canning
(There’s a two-way shuttle bus from Somerset MRT to The Herencia)

LEE’S CONFECTIONERY

The West of Singapore isn’t so bad after all because it’s home to Lee’s Confectionery. Hidden away in the residential area of Chinese Garden, Lee’s Confectionery is minimalistic patisserie that serves hand-crafted desserts and pastries.

Tart (S$8) was the our favourite of their pastries. The base of its crisp tart shell was lined with almonds and layered with cream that had a citrus flavour without any artificial taste. Its tanginess, nuttiness, and baked cookie flavour was a very pleasant combination.

343 Jurong East Street 31, #01-59
Singapore 600343
Tel: +65 9183 8447
Wed to Mon: 12pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 10pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Chinese Garden

Photo Credit: Instagram

NICHER

Located in the humble neighbourhood of Tiong Bahru, look past the hipster cafes and you’ll find Nicher. This bakery, opened by an ex-MBS chef, serves up artisanal loaf cakes at a wonderfully affordable price point of S$14 to S$16 for a full loaf!

They have more traditional flavours like Banana and Chocolate, but more modern flavours as well – Earl Grey Berries and Matcha Azuki!

71 Seng Poh Road
Singapore 160071
Mon to Wed, Fri & Sat: 11am – 3pm
(Closed on Thursdays and Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

Photo Credit: Instagram

PANTLER

Opened by chefs who met through working at the prestigious Grand Hyatt and Joel Robuchon Singapore, hidden patisserie Pantler brings a delightful plethora of intricately-crafted cakes to the table. From choux puffs to glazed cakes and croissants, Pantler has them all.

It has recently moved to a bigger space at 474 River Valley Road on 20 Feb 2021.

One of our favourites would be the Hojicha (S$8.50) – a milk chocolate and hojicha mousse cake with orange jelly and crunchy feuilletine.

Pantler
474 River Valley Road
Singapore 248359
Tuesday – Sunday 10:30 – 18:30
(Closed on Monday)

PATISSERIE CLÉ

First established as an online pâtisserie in 2018 by local pastry chefs Germaine Li and Joy Chiam, Pâtisserie CLÉ (clé is French for ‘key’) specialises in French cakes, tarts, and bakes.

The local brand opened its first physical space in Paya Lebar Office and the second outlet will be located in Lucky Heights neighbourhood where fans can get a range of tarts and
entremets as well as a new selection of viennoiseries.

Pâtisserie CLÉ
79 Lucky Heights, Singapore 467627
Tel: +65 8127 3925

SUGAR THIEVES

Hidden away in the quiet streets of Kreta Ayer is the small, cosy bakery—Sugar Thieves. They can be easily missed so keep a look out for their modern wooden-panelled exterior and white signboard. Or just try spotting their freshly baked croissants sitting near the window.

Try their Strawberry Watermelon Cake (S$8.90). Normally, sweet cream gets rather jelak after a while, but this cream was cloud-like and complimented the overall cake well. Topped with fresh fruits and perfumed with rose, it’s truly a delight!

Blk 333, #01-23
Kreta Ayer Rd
Singapore 080333
Tel: +65 9850 4377
Wed to Sat: 12pm – 6pm
(Closed Sun – Tue)
Nearest Station: Outram Park

VOYAGE

Voyage Patisserie is located along Outram Road serving French desserts.

The patisserie’s signature cake, Cynthia (S$9), is named after the owner’s girlfriend as it was the first-ever rose he gave to her. It’s definitely as sweet as the story behind it – consisting of a rose chantilly cream, lychee chunks, raspberry compote and vanilla sponge, all in the shape of a pretty rose.

249 Outram Road
Singapore 169048
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru/Outram Park

WHISKIT BAKERY & CAFE

 From colourful Rainbow Cheesecakes to more local-inspired pastry such as Kaya Ondeh tarts, Whiskit Bakery & Cafe is definitely one to mark down on your list of cafes you have to try in Singapore.

Try their Lemon Meringue Tart (S$6.50)! It’s the perfect balance of tangy and sweet – a fluffy torched meringue sits on top of a lemon curd-filled tart. It’s one of the best lemon tarts in Singapore, for sure!

11 Biopolis Way, Helios Building, #01-08
Singapore 138667

Read our guide to the 17 best patisseries and cake shops in Singapore.