Word says that this cafe… oh wait, there’s no word about the launch of this cafe in December – except for a few reputable food bloggers blogging about it.
Posts generated from their social media accounts are minimal. And yet, they have a sizeable following (more than a thousand followers on Instagram in less than a month!) and numerous pictures of their sundaes served in iconic sepia-toned glassware trending on Instagram.
Could this be an indication of a #hipster cafe, where only curious insiders and foodie Insta-sniffers like me know about this cafe?
The pancake was served with a cute (but un-photogenic) rubber glove for the iron pan.
Despite the cafe being full house, the pancake did not take too long to emerge from the kitchen, and this choice seems to be a good one. Besides its beautiful presentation, it is healthy as well.
Just take a look at the cross-section; thick and fluffy air holes filled with small dark specks of buckwheat! Ooh! #PancakePorn
Taste: 3.5/5
Although I would like to rate it higher because of its fluffiness and usage of buckwheat as a healthier option as opposed to white flour, we felt like we were suffering in the desert heat halfway through. The pancake was unfortunately TOO THICK! Got boring after a few bites. There was also not enough berry compote or maple syrup to last the pancake.
I have eaten over 10 different kinds of pretty pancakes in Australia and some were not dry at all. To counter this problem, perhaps they could separate the batter and make two pancakes instead? And line the bottom and in-between pancakes with fruits and more compote. A more indulgent addition is a scoop of vanilla/hipster-sounding ice cream! Warm carbs and cold ice cream are just a match made in heaven that I absolutely ADORE.
And here is the star attraction. Probably the most Instagrammed dish out of their menu!
Taste: 4/5
It is basically an edible brown mountain with layers and layers of surprises hidden underneath. Every spoonful you get is something new as you reach towards the bottom. It was quite fun to eat!
While eating halfway, we were bummed by how creamy the soft serve is. It did not melt even though we have left it alone for ten whole minutes. As it is quite rich and filling, I suggest sharing this amongst 2-3 people! Otherwise, it does have the legitimate bittersweet taste of the dark chocolate.
Seen above is the fate of the leftover pancake; we transferred some soft serve to finish our last bit that lacked sauce.
BUNNY’S VERDICT:
This is one of those cafes that I might or might not visit again because the food was a hit and miss. Definitely overrated by food bloggers and influencers.
However, if I do visit, it would be for another flavour of their sundaes because it is awesome for photos, and rather innovative for the tastebuds. The rest of the menu does not look that appealing to me as well. Pulled pork bowl is really cheap and easy to make 😉
Similarly, the pancakes were not worth the 20-dollar price tag. I’ve actually been wanting to make my own buckwheat pancakes; I’ve bought a big bag of flour a few months ago, but did not have the time to make them. I may try to do it soon!
RATING:
Overall Taste: 3.75/5 I recommend their unique, yet decadent Dark Chocolate Sundae.
Ambience: 3/5 I was unfortunately seated directly in front of the door, leaving left me with little to be impressed by. It was only the pentagon-shaped tiles that was interesting. Decor seems to be nicer inside the cafe.
Service: 4/5 Efficient and quick at bringing out the goods.
The Populus Coffee & Food Co.
Address: 146 Neil Road Singapore 088875
Opening Hours:
9am – 7pm (Mon, Wed),
9am – 10:30pm (Thurs – Fri),
9:30am – 10:30pm (Sat),
9:30am – 7pm (Sun), Closed on Tuesdays.
BUNNY MUNCHIES 