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Though Singapore is known globally for its rich food culture, the conversations around it tend to revolve around typical Straits cuisine fare like chili crab, laksa, and char kuay teow. Forgetting for a moment that these are all must-try dishes, Singapore’s food culture goes well beyond these favorites. More than 140 years of British rule and decades more as an international trade hub has left the Lion City with a solid—and sometimes flaky and crumbly—background in pastries.

It’s not just creations inspired by the British, either. Whether you're in the mood for high tea delicacies, modern French-inspired treats, or even cutting-edge patisserie creations, Singapore has it all.

Of course, this variety means that if you ever find yourself in the Lion City and need a quick sweet treat, it’s hard to know where to go. Singapore is quite a picky place when it comes to food and so most of the places you go to that have customers in it probably won’t disappoint. If if you’re looking for something special or specific, here are 13 must-try pastry shops in Singapore that you should visit at least once:


Photo by Esra Korkmaz

1. Tiong Bahru Bakery

An internationally renowned staple in the Singapore pastry scene, Tiong Bahru Bakery is known for its authentic French pastries, buttery croissants, and artisanal breads. Their kouign-amann is a crowd favorite but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Stop by for a breakfast or afternoon treat that mentally transports you to Paris.

2. Bengawan Solo

Famous for its traditional kueh (bite-sized East or Southeast Asian snacks or desserts), Bengawan Solo has been a beloved bakery in Singapore for decades. They also go beyond traditional offerings with favorites like their iconic Pandan Chiffon Cake. They also have a branch at Jewel Changi Airport, making their goodies an excellent way to recharge after hours of Singapore airport shopping.

3. L’éclair Patisserie

Another popular establishment with a branch at Jewel Changi Airport is L’éclair Patisserie. As the name suggests, the boutique patisserie specializes in the classic French pastry, offering a wide variety of eclairs that are as Insta-worthy as they are delicious.

4. Keong Saik Bakery

Keong Saik Bakery is emblematic of Singapore, combining tradition and modernity in a perfect balance. While the cakes seem like those of many others on this list, a bite of their signature pastries like the Matcha Roll Cake and Classic Burnt Cheesecake reveals innovation and loving craftsmanship in every crumb.

5. Awfully Chocolate Bakery & Café

Awfully Chocolate is a Singaporean institution and an essential stop for chocolate lovers. Their offers are all made with high-quality chocolate and crafted with absolute respect for the chocolatier’s art. As you might expect, their pioneer (and formerly only) product, the All Chocolate Cake, is a consistent bestseller. They also offer a selection of savory dishes if you’re the type who waits until dessert to have their cake.

6. Lavender Bakery

A well-loved bakery in Singapore, Lavender has a diverse range of pastries, breads, and cakes that you’ll surely enjoy. Rather conveniently, they also have a branch at Jewel Changi Airport. Try the Bamboo Charcoal Bread and the addictive Hanjuku Cheese bars. You can also get a traditional panettone even outside the Christmas season, which is a reason to visit on its own.

7. Bread & Hearth

As the name suggests, Bread & Hearth leans towards a more rustic artisanal approach to baked goods. Their freshly baked signature croissants are a must-try, but all the breads will transport you into a cozier place. If you have time, the warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon snack.

8. Tong Heng Delicacies

Portuguese-inspired egg tarts are having a global moment but they have been a staple in Asia for quite a long time. With over 80 years of history, Tong Heng Delicacies is well-established but still quite young as far as Asian bakeshops serving these tarts go. Their diamond-shaped egg tarts are a classic Singaporean pastry, with an exceptional mouthfeel that you may not have even realized existed.

9. Rich & Good Cake Shop

An absolute gem in an already glittering pastry scene, Rich & Good Cake Shop is famous for its Swiss rolls, which come in a variety of local flavors like kaya and durian. Fluffy, perfectly rolled, and with just the right sweetness, these cakes are a nostalgic treat for many Singaporeans. You can catch a taste of them minutes after landing in Singapore or when you’re out and about for a stroll, thanks to the Rich & Good Cake Shop’s convenient location in Jewel Changi Airport.

10. Butter Studio

The cupcake trend may have faltered a bit globally but great quality is eternal. Butter Studio is proof of that. They do more than just cupcakes these days but their dedication to quality and creativity shines through in every bite, all the same.

11. J2 Crispy Curry Puff

For a taste of local excellence, Michelin-starred J2 Crispy Curry Puff is a must-visit. The curry puff is a quintessential Singaporean snack and J2 arguably offers the best in the country. Their puffs are known for their perfectly crispy, flaky crusts and a good variety of savory fillings.

12. Tarte by Cheryl Koh

Helmed by award-winning pastry chef Cheryl Koh, Tarte by Cheryl Koh offers exquisite tarts that are both visually stunning and delicious. Cheryl Koh herself has earned the title “Asia's Best Pastry Che”' by the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants Award so you know for a fact that Tarte won’t disappoint when it comes to quality and attention to detail.

13. The Backyard Bakers

The Backyard Bakers is a local gem known beyond Singapore for their decadent brownies and other baked goods. Their signature Original Blackout Brownies are a must-try and are a popular choice for tourists to take back home. With a location in Jewel Changi Airport, you’d have to be nuts to not buy a box before your return flight.

Sample Singapore’s Scintillating Sweet Secrets

Singapore’s pastry scene doesn’t get the love it needs overseas and it’s about time that things change. It doesn’t matter if you’re a fan of classic Southeast Asian sweets, Western-inspired Chinese baked goods, or authentic French pastries—you will find what you’re craving in Singapore. Feel free to take this list as a light-hearted suggestion and feel free to try any of the pastry shops you’ll find in the Lion City. You might be pleasantly surprised!