Shiberty Bakes [UPDATED] @ 46 Owen Road: Sugar-High on Thick Toasts, ChurroWaffles & Old-school Treats

If you haven’t already known, @Shiberty is a prominent baker slash blogger.

At a young age of 23, the opening of her own cafe under her name in April 2016 was an unexpected move because young bakers rarely do that – unless they are really successful right?

After You Bangkok’s Thick toasts have a special place in my heart and when I learned that Shiberty Bakes serves them in such an alluring manner, I had to come.

Nonetheless, 2 months was how long it took me to make the decision to visit due to the bad publicity created – they served melted ice cream during the first few days of its opening. What a turn-off that would be if it happened to me!

And so, I waited for review to turn positive before visiting. Also had a friend who dined there thrice in  2 months.

It SHOULD be good, right?

The cafe, however is located at Farrer Park – a secluded neighbourhood to me.

I was lost while navigating my way here and having a standee, or sign outside and a block number listed in Google Maps would benefit them.

We met here at 3pm for tea on a Saturday, and I was surprised that only two tables were occupied.

Selecting our food was a no-brainer because there’s only two of us who were craving for thick toasts. It was particularly amusing when we unanimously agreed on having the Matcha Shiberty Toast [$16] not long after browsing the menu.

You’re a true matcha lover when you choose Matcha over Rocher Toast; I was a bit torn between the two of them, but thought Rocher may be nothing special because most cafes serve this flavour, or with Nutella.

The ordering is done at the counter where several cupcakes, cakes and macarons are being displayed.

Our Matcha Shiberty Toast [$16] with cookies, white chocolate drizzle, green tea & vanilla ice cream arrived after our 20-minute chatter.

Taste: 3.5./5

This is my 5th thick toast in Singapore and my standards for thick toast is pretty high now. With edges that were crispy and easy to cut through, I’m glad to say that the quality of the toast is better than Dessert Project’s. It was also evenly buttered.

While saying that, it was sad when the middle part of the toast uncontrollably collapsed before even tucking in! This did not ever happen for four thick toast cafes I’ve been to so far.

Maybe the weather was too hot. Hmm…

Another downside was the artificial taste of the ice creams. Their matcha ice cream was on the sweeter side and the vanilla had a “cheap” taste – “like Wall’s” – commented by my friend.

One more thing that you would either love, or hate was the haphazard sprinkle of sweet treats on the side.

They include Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream candy bar, matcha roll wafers,  Pepero white chocolate sticks, matcha Kit Kats, and crushed peanuts.

I liked the fact that each was given in an even number so two of us wouldn’t have to fight for them hehe…

These snacks were definitely an interesting addition that is distinctive from the rest of the thick toasts in the market. The Hershey’s candy bar made me reminisce my primary school days, where I’d buy them in primary school whenever I was peckish after classes were over.

My company, on the other hand, was unfazed by these “junk” and wished that the toast is serve plain with the ice creams alone.

On another occasion, we came back for the iconic “Churro Waffle“ [$15].

I know, it already sounds larger than life.

It consists of cinnamon sugar, toffee lashings, chocolates, hazelnut & sea salt caramel ice cream. 

Taste: 3.5/5 

I have to give them credit for trying to be different, but it has a severe lack of cinnamon, which caused the entire dish to be rather bland alone. I joked that I would bring my own cinnamon powder and up the spice game.

Nonetheless, the ice cream quality has leapt by miles because it wasn’t cheap vanilla. While we were supposed to have the Hazelnut flavour, somehow it switched to Dark Chocolate – I’m not complaining though.

This waffle may be something worth trying if you are adventurous and a fan of sugary things and old school treats like chocolate wafers and biscuits!

The cafe also offers pretty macarons and *gasps* Pokeball cake!

BUNNY’S VERDICT:

I really returned for a second visit!

BUNNY RECOMMENDS: Shiberty Toast, Churro-Waffle

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RATING

Overall Taste:  3.5/5  A few hits and misses for the Matcha Shiberty Toast and Churro Waffles, which causes this dessert cafe to be labelled as “mediocre” under my cafe rankings.

The price tag of $16 is also quite high, considering that Dessert Project costed me $14.90 for better quality handcrafted ice creams. I reckon the ice creams here are not freshly made by the cafe. This was one big factor that may have compromised their taste.

Ambience: 4/5 The best ambience out of all the dessert cafes located in the heartlands that I’ve been to. Much effort has been put into the decor, like vases of flowers, and corners framed with calligraphy quotes. They are THE perfect back drop for your Instagram photos.

I had a problem with their toilet though because my experience was ruined by how there wasn’t any toilet paper and handwash left (a bit of an OCD freak here) and the toilet door was really tough to close.

Service: 3/5 Staff were generally all smiles, but they didn’t seem that genuine or eager to serve. Maybe because there is no service charge?

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Shiberty Bakes
46 Owen Road, #01-277, Singapore 210046 (Farrer Park MRT)
Opening Hours:
12pm – 9.30pm (Tues – Sun)
Closed on Mondays.
Facebook

Directions: 

• Cafe is near Pek Kio Market, if you’re familiar with it. Nearest MRT is Farrer Park station and it’d will be a 10-minute walk from there.
• Buses: 131, 141

Hopping out…
ANDREA THE #FOREVERHUNGRY BUNNY

Don’t be a stranger!
Stay connected with my munching journey on Instagram ❤

 

 

Non Entrée Desserts @ 204 Rangoon Road: MUST TRY Matcha Avalanche & Rubber Ducky Dessert

If lava cakes or atas-looking desserts rock your boat, you need to visit Non Entrée. They have been featured on INSIDER Food on their Facebook page and people have been flocking there for a taste of their world renowned Matcha Lava Cake!

Read on to find out why its so popular.

The facade of Non Entrée is unescapable while you drive or walk along Rangoon Road. The cafe is also next door to the famous Ng Ah Sio Bah Kut Teh, which most Singaporeans would be familiar with.

I just wish this cafe existed last time so that I could bring my family here after a potent bowl of hot peppery BKT.

The cafe is packed to the brim when we arrived and had to wait for at least 20 minutes on a Saturday afternoon. All diners have to be present before they give you a table.

Their Matcha Avalanche, the most popular item, is not listed on the menu, but on the counter. The cafe also serves cakes but I think their quality look subpar to professional pâtisseries.

As it was my friend’s birthday, I had a brilliant idea of having the Matcha Avalanche as his birthday cake!

Definitely the most unique birthday cake to remember… And right after blowing the candle, we couldn’t wait to do THE deed – slicing it open!

#DATDRIP

We’ve done it!!! Without any mess like what other people had! Phew.

Matcha Avalanche [$13.90+] with chocolate soil, crunchy almond nougatine & roasted green tea gelato.

Taste: 4.2/5

I’ve had my fair share of lava cakes, but none of them being presented this way. So needless to say, all of us were impressed with how this ingenious concept actually worked.  It’s really satisfying while witnessing the velvety matcha lava cream dripping out into the cup.

Everyone was literally saying “ahhhh” when we witnessed the birthday boy prying the lava cake open and leaked matcha elixir. And then he smashed the cake right into the cup.

No wastage at all.

Matcha lovers out there would be pleased to know that the matcha used for this cake is LEGIT. It had the hint of bitterness that we anticipated.

There was even a matcha powder on the cake itself, so there you go…

THE ULTIMATE LAVA CAKE ALL MATCHA FANS SHOULD TRY! So awesome that we were fighting till the end for a piece of it.

That one thing I was disappointed was how the roasted green tea gelato tasted flat and nothing like matcha. I was confused. It was very mild and I savoured more of the chocolate from the chocolate soil, which seems like grounded Oreo biscuits.

Overall, the matcha taste is there, but perhaps vanilla ice cream would be a better choice, along with some red azuki beans perhaps?

Next up is our cute little Rubber Ducky [$12.90]! 

I saw this on Instagram and knew I had to have it. I personally played with rubber duckies when I was young.

Now I get to eat it. Life is good eh?

From the menu, it is described as “Crème fraiche pudding, fresh mango purée, sago pearls, exotic sorbet sat atop a lemongrass cloud”.

Sorry for interrupting your bath or defacing you while you melt… but you were tasty!

Taste: 3.8/5

So cute that the ducky had foam on its head, as if it is taking a bath itself and we are intruding on its privacy. Oops. Anyone would be fooled by its aesthetics and think its inedible.

To be honest, I thought the dessert would be rather simple with gelato and some foam at the bottom. However, as I began digging for the sorbet, the chefs proved me wrong.

I discovered large sago pearls and mango puree lined at the bottom of the bowl! Surprises!

There was even more to come when we found egg custard – part of the duck to hold the sorbet in shape I reckon – even when we were almost done with it.

While previous reviewers may call it the “best dessert ever”,  I wouldn’t go to that extent.

It reminds me of a superior version of the traditional Chinese dessert – Mango Sago, but less watery and the sago pearls were a tad too big for my liking. Furthermore, the mango flavour became overpowering towards the end and we were reaching out for water to cleanse our palate.

On the side note, I spotted Mama Lemon at my office washroom the next day and I found out that the dessert smelt exactly like it. Not sure if it is a good or bad thing (LOL), but you need to give this a try if you fancy mangoes or mango-flavoured food.

It consists multiple layers of surprises that will provide you an amazing sensory experience.

Keep the innovative desserts coming in, Non Entrée!

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BUNNY’S VERDICT:

YES! Best for chilling in groups of 4 or less.

BUNNY RECOMMENDS: Matcha Avalanche, Rubber Ducky

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RATING

Overall Taste: 4/5 Can’t believe it took me so long to visit Non-Entree! And I just can’t wait to be back for more spectacular desserts. They are so Instagram-worthy and taste great as well. Did I mention that most of their desserts are less than $15? Prices are subjected to Service Charge only.

They are definitely a breath of fresh air from waffles or thick toasts.

Ambience: 4/5 A tad too noisy because it was packed with people, but the decor was on-point. Loved the industrial and contemporary mix of decor such as the pop of bright yellow, vintage chandelier in the middle of the cafe. We were able to hold proper conversations as seats were not too close to our neighbours.

Service: 4/5 Friendly, desserts were served rather fast, and the staff did not chase us out even though we were chatting after our meal. I would like to commend them for this.

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Non Entrée Desserts
204 Rangoon Road, Singapore 218451 (Farrer Park MRT)
Phone: 9878 6543
2pm – 10pm (Tuesday -Thursday),
2pm – 11pm (Fri),
12pm – 11pm (Sat)
12pm – 10pm (Sun), Closed on Mondays
https://www.facebook.com/nonentreedesserts

Directions: 

• Nearest MRT station: 10-minute walk from Farrer Park (NE), Exit B along Rangoon Road.
• Street Carpark available opposite, but limited lots.

Hopping out…
ANDREA THE #FOREVERHUNGRY BUNNY

DON’T BE A STRANGER!
FOR MORE HONEST REVIEWS, FOLLOW MY MUNCHING JOURNEY ON INSTAGRAM ❤

 

 

The Benjamins @ Forum Orchard: Fun & Instagrammable Milkshakes That Would Fly You To Cloud 9!

Cereal, wafer or iced gems for breakfast, anyone?

Yes please, because The Benjamins at Forum Shopping Mall at Orchard has got them all!

Along with Cake Spade, this cafe is well-known for producing Over-The-Top, or OTT Shakes since last year. To further keep their head in the game, they released a whole new series of Shakes last month that feature Cerealsly Crunchy Shakes that are cerealsly good-looking.

I made my way there for brunch on a Sunday… You must be thinking what a way to indulge for breakfast hehe… Well, the #CerealCafehopper just can’t stop herself!

By the way, I have made a vlog-style review on my on my visit on Instagram @bunnymunchies. Head there if you want to have a good look at the ambience and food!

Outside the cafe were these attractive photos of their shakes that was already enough to make any child or girl squeal! I was also wondering if the “available after 12pm” applies to the Cerealsy Crunchy Shakes.

Boasting industrial vibes with its hanging lightbulbs and metal chairs, the cafe was half empty at 1.30pm. However, its serene ambience changed to bustling from 2pm onwards, as a throng of diners came in.

I suspect they are the late risers on Sunday, or just here for after-lunch desserts.

I took photos of the full menu, which is not available online because I’ve tried searching for it (you’re welcome).

What I realised, while browsing, was their mains are not very wallet-friendly for such a casual cafe. I was also puzzled why they had an Omakase breakfast…

The cafe also has alluring cakes like Salted Caramel Chocolate, Rainbow, Nutella and Thai Milk Tea on display!

In the end, I had to control myself and focus on my main goal with my company – their Fairy Pebble Shake and Mango Rainbow Smoothie Bowl; I chose the latter to make up for the cerealsy sinful Fairy Pebble hehehe… As if it is that healthy.

Mango Rainbow Smoothie Bowl [$14++] with fresh mango, strawberries, pomelo, avocado, chia seeds, low fat yogurt and cereal  granola.

Taste: 4.5/5

I’ve had green vegetable, acai and pitaya smoothie bowls, but this mango version is a first! It originally comes with cereal, but I requested for granola for a healthier option.

I am very delighted with the presentation and taste of it because I had not much to complain about this pretty bowl of colours!

The strawberries and mango were very fresh – despite being on the sour side. They also had sharp edges; I have a weird penchant for fruits with clean cuts by a well-maintained knife.

The texture of the mango smoothie base was creamy, smooth and not overly sweet. Those who do not like avocado would be relieved that the traces of the green fruit could not be found!

I deducted 0.5 marks just because I was hoping for a bit more granola for a more filling meal – especially if someone is having this all by him or herself.

Now, behold for our next dish…

Because the size of the Fairy Pebbles [$16++] cerealsy blew my mind!

It doesn’t look big on photos, but when presented on the table… It was definitely larger and wider than my face.

That says a lot.

Taste: 3.5/5

Overall, this messy, yet adorable dessert tasted better than expected! I thought  it was “too pretty” to taste like rainbows; but then again, it’s full of childhood treats and cereal that we love, so what’s there to not like about it?!

For those who wonder – how are you going to eat this?

Well, let me demonstrate!

First, pour the fruity pebbles onto the poofy pink and green cotton candy for a photo… (haha) And then place them into the small cup.

Be cautious for this step though! Once done, start digging into the wonderful end of the rainbow.

There was a slice of chocolate cake, hundreds and thousands biscuit and iced gems; I immediately grabbed the hot pink one because that’s the flavour I like most as a kid!

I believe the hundreds and thousands biscuit to be Arnott’s.

But honestly, it was too hard for me and my company. Can kids even eat them? I sure hope their teeth are stronger than ours. We also shared the yellow disc, and found out that it was durian-flavoured!

Yay!

Everything was great so far… Until  we reached the milkshake itself.

The shake, unfortunately, had a foamy consistency akin to soap; I saw that there was some whipped cream inserted to keep the iced gems afloat, and the combination did not had much taste.

So my company invented a method by scraping the Nutella-painted sides using the spoon and have it together with the foam!

Ingenious.

Added some fruity pebbles into the mixture too for good measure!

When the iced gems disappeared into our mouths, the slice of cake started to sink into the shake, so I hurriedly scooped it out and thought it was a bit too sweet for my liking due to the thick icing, but the saving grace was the prominent chocolate flavour.

Believe it or not, we managed to finish BOTH desserts and couldn’t feel our waists after.

Me up on Cloud 9!

While the milkshake was disappointing, I was transported to Cloud 9.

Savouring my favourite childhood snacks induced nostalgia about the past, but in a good way… *writing brimming tears in the eyes*.

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BUNNY’S VERDICT: 

YES, I’ll be back for insane-looking desserts, BUT remember I’d bring friends to share the calories and LOVE gone into making them!

BUNNY RECOMMENDS: Mango Pomelo Bowl, Fairy Pebbles

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RATING

Overall Taste:  4/5  Despite worrying that the desserts would only look good in photos, their taste reached my expectations, particularly for the Mango Smoothie Bowl.

The Milkshake for the Cerealsy OTT Series, on the other hand, can be improved. I discovered that other Fruity Pebbles served on Instagram seem to have two discs, but ours only had one, and the milkshake can have a thicker consistency – like the Mango Smoothie Bowl, rather than being all foamy!

Ambience: 4/5 Very children-friendly, where kids would go crazy with their desserts; cafe is furnished with colourful cereal boxes and posters, which adds a “kiddy” element, but they match their OTT shakes!

Service: 3/5 Menus and water came promptly when we were seated, but it took a few tries to call for warm water. Our cups were not refilled throughout our dining experience and waitresses seemed quite hostile.

The Benjamins
Address: 583 Orchard Road,
Forum the Shopping Mall, #01-20/21
Singapore 23888
Phone:6887 4117
Opening Hours: 
10.30am – 9pm (Mon – Thurs, Sun)
10.30am – 9pm (Fri, Sat)
Facebook

Directions: 

• Nearest MRT: Orchard. It’ll be a 10 minute walk from the MRT by the Wheelock Place route.
• Parking is available at Forum Shopping Mall or other malls nearby.

Hopping out…
ANDREA THE #FOREVERHUNGRY BUNNY

DON’T BE A STRANGER!
FOR MORE HONEST REVIEWS, FOLLOW MY MUNCHING JOURNEY ON INSTAGRAM ❤

Dessert Project Review @ 22 Havelock Road: *Almost* the Exact Replica of After You Dessert Cafe, Bangkok

Behold… Those who have tried After You Dessert Cafe in Bangkok will understand the withdrawal symptoms that you suffer when you’re back in Singapore – because I do. I crave for these babies once every few months, and it’s killing me!

They are so delicious that I went twice in three days during my trip to Bangkok last year just for their thick toast. One was for my post-dinner dessert, and another being my breakfast! Even though I was so stuffed from the delicious Thai food, I managed to wipe the plates up spanking clean!

Ferrero Rocher Toast, After You Bangkok

Sticky Toffee Toast, After You Bangkok

Just glancing at the pictures that I took is making enough to make me drool!

To better understand why it is so popular amongst Singaporeans and the cafe scene now, you just gotta try and see it for yourself.

My personal criteria for a good Shibuya or Thick Toast that I always look for are as follows:

1. Toast served thick, hot and crispy on the outside
2. Accompanied by not just one, but two scoops of cold, fresh (non-melting) ice cream to generate a temperature contrast AND ensure that there’s enough to melt and soak through the hot bread. This is highly crucial for maximum enjoyment of the toast.
3. Insides of the toast must be fluffy, while having a thin wall that is easy to cut through
4. Able to taste the eggy, buttery flavour that’s not too overpowering
5. Adequate toppings and other ingredients for added sauces like chocolate sauce, maple syrup, fruit compotes, caramel etcetera.

Guess what?

After You has hit ALL THE RIGHT SPOTS.

#TakeMeBackToBangkok

While we do not have an After You branch in Singapore, cafes serving similar renditions have sprouted, including Assembly Coffee, Dazzling Cafe, Tuk Tuk Cha and Stateland Cafe – but have they got the recipe right?

I’ve tried almost half of  lists of “Best Shibuya Toast in Singapore” written by famous food bloggers, and so far, none have reached the level of Dessert Project!

The exterior of Dessert Project is fairly simple, with black window grills that makes it look like a greenhouse. There is only one menu, which is at the counter, and two tables were occupied on a weekday mid-afternoon.

Like After You, Dessert Project offers a range of Thick Toasts for you to opt from, such as Classic Maple [$13.90], Nutella [$14.90], Sticky Toffee [$14.90], Matcha [$14.90], Gula Melaka Coconut [$14.90] and Pina Colada [$14.90].

It is interesting that they offer Maple, instead of Honey toast, and their Sticky Toffee definitely is not the same as After You’s – since it has Coffee ice cream on it.

It’d be a pity to leave the cafe without ordering any of their homemade ice creams! Their renowned Truffle flavour exactly tasted like truffle with a smooth and creamy consistency, but I certainly do not want it to be on my toast. Not sure how much Truffle Oil is added inside, hmm…

To generate a fair comparison between Bangkok’s After You and Dessert Project, I opted for their Nutella Toast [$14.90], but I wanted to replace the vanilla ice cream with Thai Earl Grey that was packed full with Earl Grey goodness.

However, the owner said that we could not replace the ice creams on their thick toast with fancy ones that you see on display. *inserts crying face* So if you want to have a try of their ice creams at the counter, you have to add $4-4.50 – which was I did in the end.

Is this a way to earn more revenue from their ice creams? You be the judge.

Nutella Toast [$14.90] with Ferrero Rocher and Vanilla Ice Cream + Thai Earl Grey Premium Scoop [$4.50].

“Can we dig in now?”

Taste: 4.5/5

The toast itself was aesthetically pleasing that I couldn’t bear to eat it! It was totally worth the 20-minute wait that we had.

The texture of the toast was exactly what I was looking for… Hot, toasty and the cold drizzle of chocolate sauce sealed the whole package together. All my criteria were checked.

What was lacking is the Ferrero Rocher on top that After You has!

I came down on another occasion to try their other popular thick toast, the Gula Melaka Toast [$14.90] with Coconut Ice Cream, Grated Coconut Flakes & Gula Melaka Syrup.

Taste: 3/5

On first bite, I felt it was rather bland.  This could be due to both scoops having a subtle Coconut flavour and Gula Melaka syrup being kind of water. I sensed no flavour burst like what the Nutella Toast had. What a letdown!

Moreover, the edges of the toast this time round were quite thick and tough this time round. I had trouble slicing through the toast… Not sure if it was day old bread, but their quality has gone down. I don’t recommend anyone to order this, unless you are craving for a thick toast and thinking of something less decadent.

But why would you do that?!

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BUNNY’S VERDICT: 

YES, it has become my go-to Thick Toast place.

BUNNY RECOMMENDS: Nutella Toast 

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RATING

Overall Taste:  3.5/5  The Gula Melaka Toast did not live up to my expectation so it pulled down the rating of the overall taste and its price is not justified for the toppings and ice cream that came with it.

The Nutella Toast will be the one that I will continue to come back for; it is crispy and had had ample butter within the toast. I just wished that they allowed us to choose the flavours of the ice cream on it! The extra scoop of their premium flavour is pretty pricey as well at $4.50. But what to do? This shall suffice till my next Bangkok trip!

Ambience: 3.5/5 Very minimalistic, simple and nothing much to look at. It is Instagram-friendly though, with small potted plants at the long bar seats that you could use to take your food photos with, which I did it on both visits.

Service: 4/5 All smiles during our time at the cafe, and although the toasts took about 20 to 25 minutes to prepare so be prepared to wait!

Dessert Project
Address: 22 Havelock Rd, Singapore 160022
#01-673
Phone: 8113 5385
Opening Hours: 
12 – 9.30pm (Mon – Thurs, Sun)
12 – 11pm (Fri, Sat)

Directions: 

• Nearest MRT: Tiong Bahru. It’ll be a 10-15 minute walk from the MRT, but there is a shortcut if you walk by Bukit Ho Swee Link and Jln Bukit Ho Swee, and behind the Havelock Food Centre that has a staircase down to the block that the cafe is located at.
• Parking is available at Havelock Food Centre or the nearby HDB Estate Multi-storey Carpark.

Hopping out…
ANDREA THE #FOREVERHUNGRY BUNNY

DON’T BE A STRANGER!
FOR MORE HONEST REVIEWS, FOLLOW MY MUNCHING JOURNEY ON INSTAGRAM ❤

 

Montana Singapore @ PoMo Review: Sweet & Savoury Waffles Done Right

The search for the best waffle in Singapore battle continues as more cafes are producing epic-looking and tasting waffles – one after another.

First, it was the waffle topped with a photogenic swirl of soft serve and sprinkle of nuts on top and other customisable ingredients on the side, then came the black Charcoal waffle and the thick buttery drizzle of Salted Egg Yolk sauce. Cafes have also been banking on more unique ice cream offerings like Butter Beer, Truffle and Thai Milk Tea to lure Instagrammers and the adventurous foodies to pop by.

Being an avid waffle fan, I have visited eight cafes serving waffles, including Salted Caramel, Sunday Folks, Twenty Grammes, Rabbit Owl Depot and Fat Cat Ice Cream Bar; Salted Caramel was one of the few dominant waffle cafes in the late 2000s serving the round waffle. I can’t believe how the rest popped up within the recent years!

Famous for its Mac and Cheese and Red Velvet Waffles, Montana Singapore is under these additions and after visiting two times at its revamped outlet at PoMo, I can safely say that has made it to my top three to-go waffle places in Singapore!

 

Came here for Sunday brunch at 1pm and it was a sizeable crowd.

Since it was in the afternoon, all I was interested in was their savoury waffles.

I had a hard time deciding between the Assam Crab Waffle [$18] and Bulgogi Beef Waffle [$16.80], but settled on the latter since my company is not big on assam or gula melaka. *Sniffs*

The Bulgogi Beef Waffle had an eye-catching presentation with the dash of red Gochujang sauce and green spring onions on top.

Taste: 3.5/5

The Gochujang rice waffle comes with sous vide bulgogi beef, kimchi coleslaw and poached egg; the flowy egg signalled a good start to our meal. After drenching the waffle with the yolk, we proceeded to dig into the crispy waffle and realised that the waffle had the taste of the Gochujang, which gave it an orange hue. Yummy!

After savouring the waffle a couple of times, I noted that the beef was served cold and did not feel very fresh. It was a bit limp and not those that you have during shabu shabu, where the meat is springy on the outside and tender within. On second thoughts, for the price, I guess it’s all right.

My company, on the other hand, articulated that the waffle had a milky taste; I thought that it could be due to the marinade of the kimchi? It wasn’t a huge factor for me to put down my cutlery!

Overall, the components came together quite well, especially for the waffle; batter was tasty and crispy. I would rate it higher if all the ingredients were served warm. Great effort on making a fusion Korean-Western waffle!

On another occasion, since I was around the vicinity for a dinner with my Junior College buddies, I decided to give Montana’s sweet dessert waffles a go!

One was craving for waffles too, but I was nervous because I had no idea if they were any good. This happens to me when discovering a new eatery with my friends from time to time; I feel pressurised sometimes to make sure that the food is good, since I usually do an in-depth research before visiting anywhere and tried many more places than my friends and family LOL. Does anyone feel me?

Anyways, when we arrived at 9pm, my friends thought I have brought them to a bar and they don’t drink. Well, I found out that cafe does serve alcohol at night! The place was also one-quarter filled, so business seemed not too shabby for a weekday.

We ordered two waffles because the guys were in a good mood; we were still full from our ramen meal before that! After waiting for 20 minutes, we were wondering where our waffles have gone to. I looked back and saw the chef assembling the red velvet one in utmost concentration.

Mango Berry Waffle [$13] with Fresh Mango, Mixed Berry Compote, and Vanilla Ice Cream.

Taste: 4/5

The description sounded basic, but it turned out better than expected! The waffle had two toppings that were just enough to coat the waffle. I preferred the side with the fresh berry compote; it had a sweet and tangy flavour with the texture of fresh berries.

I believe that the compote is made from frozen raspberries and blackberries.

The maple syrup given on the side thus wasn’t needed anymore.  The waiter also allowed us to choose between crispy or fluffy waffle and we had the crispy one. It was crispy to the extent that I could taste the dryness throughout – equivalent to a death sentence to my throat.

However, one of my friend LOVED it so much and finished most of the mango side by himself that lacked a sauce, whereas my other friend and I were fighting for the berry compote side because we liked the semi-soaked waffle.

Soggy waffles, come to Mummy…!

The winner of the day has got to be the Red Velvet Waffle Stack [$14] with Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream and White Chocolate Rose Syrup, as I found myself hogging over it!

Taste: 4.5/5

This is a must-order at Montana! It was so B.O.M.B. and exactly what I needed to wow my tastebuds.

I noticed that previous food bloggers had this classic waffle with Vanilla ice cream, which was in the old menu; I’m glad that they switched it to Strawberry Shortcake flavour as it has a richer taste and complemented the red velvet flawlessly! The waffle also had the appropriate amount of crisp and was fluffy inside.

This would have been full marks if the ice cream didn’t melt so fast; it melted waaaay faster than the vanilla on the otherMango Berry Waffle. I also felt that some ingredients were missing and made the dish “empty”.

Perhaps some red velvet cake crumble, marshmallows or berries would be nice to accompany the waffle? My friend actually transferred some of the berry compote for an added texture and taste to the red velvet. That could be an idea.

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BUNNY’S VERDICT: 

YES, I WOULD HOP BACK FOR THEIR WAFFLES!

BUNNY RECOMMENDS: Bulgogi Beef, Red Velvet Waffles

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RATING

Overall Taste: 4/5 Montana seems to be gaining the upper hand through their unique waffle creations in Singapore. Although I prefer all my waffles to be sweet, I’m sure that their savoury would be popular for lunch or dinner. I would love to return for their Red Velvet and the rest – Black Sesame and Carrot Cake Waffle. They all sound so interesting! Price-point wise, it might be steep for the extra GST and service charge that cost us $5 more. Their location is not bad nonetheless, accessible from the city area.

Ambience: 3/5 Decor had a Middle Eastern atmosphere, largely due to the exotic-patterned tiles and gigantic spread of red tapestry spanning across the cafe. The boys loved the test tubes on each table that held salt and pepper. However, we were seated on the same table as my previous visit and surrounding decor was not very photogenic or Instagrammable.

Service: 3/5  Mediocre service. Staff were not very welcoming, but still attentive at filling our waters. Food took around 15 t0 20 minutes to be served.

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Montana Singapore
PoMo, 1 Selegie Road #02-25
Singapore 188306
Tel: +65 98331790
Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am – 10pm
Facebook

Directions: Nearest MRT would be Bras Basah (CC Line), or Dhoby Ghaut (CC Line, NE Line, NS Line).

• I usually walk from Dhoby Ghaut and it would take 10-minutes. Walk towards the Cathay and along School Of The Arts at Princep Street, and PoMo would just be next to it.

Hopping out…
ANDREA THE #FOREVERHUNGRY BUNNY

The Populus Coffee and Food Co. @146 Neil Road Review: Popular Cafe on Instagram, Subpar Pretty Food

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?

And so, I knew I had to check this mysterious cafe. Opportunity arose when they were taking reservations during the Christmas period – I could secure a table without waiting long hours in the sweltering heat. Thank goodness!

Arrived here at 12.30pm on a Saturday. While outside looked serene, I was obviously fooled; inside was bustling with diners once I opened the door. It was no different from a wet market – except that it’s being filled with youngsters and middle aged parents with their children in arms. This is most likely due to the festive period where friends and family hold their mini gatherings here.

Thankfully, I was seated immediately directly in front of the entrance by a young male waiter. He then gave me a huge glass bottle of water and menu not long after. Since not many cafes in Singapore are this swift at these two steps (the wonderful service in Australia has spoiled me too much), “impressive” is one word that came to my mind.

I was eyeing on the Ricotta & Herb Bread Pudding and Buckwheat Pancakes…

And my eyes drifted towards their sundaes…

In the end, I let my company decide because I might raid the whole cafe hehehe. We opted for two dishes to share. Orders are taken at the counter.

Here’s a quick shot of their fridge: nothing eye-catching.

Buckwheat Pancakes with Berry fruit compote, cornflake crumb, passionfruit curd & thyme infused maple syrup [$20].

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!

Dark Chocolate Sundae with Passion fruit curd, raspberry puree, hazelnut crumb, chocolate crumb, honeycomb & whipped cream [$14].

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!

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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.

Hopping out…

ANDREA THE #FOREVERHUNGRY BUNNY