Home-based bakeries were all the rage during lockdown when we were stuck in our homes. Now that we’ve been let loose, it only makes sense for these bakeries to transition to a traditional brick-and-mortar.
Because, let’s face it, nothing beats eating freshly made food right there and then.
One of these bakeries is none other than Kobashi Bakery.
As you might have guessed, they were formed in 2020 and instantly drew attention for their unique flavours of sourdough donuts. Or, as they call it, ‘sourdo’nut’.
Fast forward to 2024, Coffeehouse by Kobashi has set up shop at South Bridge Road (it’s literally just opposite DAWN) to not only attract a whole new audience but also satisfy long-time fans.
What’s more, it’s not just donuts being offered here. Look forward to all-day food and drinks menus that will no doubt make Kobashi one of your go-to brunch places.
I started out with a brunch staple — Loaded Mentaiko Fries (S$16). The fries are topped with bonito flakes, shredded seaweed and tobiko, and drenched with grilled mentaiko sauce. It was simply full of umami goodness.
However, this may come off as a little whiny but there needs to be more mentaiko sauce. When the sauce is executed this well, it needs to be poured liberally.
If you want something more filling, the Bangin’ Mash (S$15) with chicken kielbasa sausages drizzled with caramelised onion gravy is recommended by the co-owner himself.
Since Kobashi is known for their sourdough (which is made fresh in-house), I had to give their all day toasts a try. The Smoked Sallie (S$17) caught my eye for its topping of smoked salmon mixed with dill crema.
The dill sauce was creamy yet light and refreshing with a hint of tangy lemon flavour. Paired with salad on the side, the dish is perfect for a lighter brunch that’s easy on the stomach.
I then moved on to the mains, specifically the Koba Baby (S$15). It’s supposed to be a smaller version of the Big Koba (S$25) but even then, I had some difficulties finishing the meal.
In my defence, the dish is their version of the classic Big Breakfast, so there was a lot going on my plate (I mean this in a literal sense).
I tucked into bacon, scrambled eggs, sous-vide mushroom, cherry tomatoes and tater tots, alongside a thick slice of sourdough bread.
Personally, I would’ve liked the mushroom and bacon to have more flavour to them. I found these two components a little bland, which affected the overall taste (and not to forget, satisfaction!) of the dish.
I also ordered their Chilled Truffle Capellini (S$28). On a superficial level, it was due to the fact that this dish is particularly raved about on social media. But practically speaking, no brunch is truly complete without a pasta dish on the table.
And, thank goodness I did not skip this one out. The pasta was cooked till al dente and tossed in fragrant truffle oil that complimented the seafood so well. Don’t worry, it wasn’t at all overpowering!
For a dedicated bakery, their drinks were surprisingly innovative. The Whipped Milo Latte (S$7.50) is a local take on the standard mocha, whereas the Honey Coffee Milk Foam (S$7) was hands down my favourite given how smooth and subtly sweet it was.
Matcha lovers, you’ll surely reach for the Matcha Strawberry (S$8.50). The matcha is slightly bitter and possesses grassier notes, yielding a well-balanced beverage that’s neither too sweet nor earthy .
Of course, I couldn’t leave Coffeehouse by Kobashi without getting my hands on their signature sourdo’nuts. As my stomach could no longer take in more food, I had to take these donuts to go.
The Pistachio Raspberry (S$6.50) and Brown Butter Vanilla Craquelin (S$6.50) are seasonal premium flavours , so be sure to savour them while they’re available!
For a classic donut flavour that you can count on, the Passionfruit Mango (S$6) hits all the right spots with its sweet and zesty filling. The sugar-coated exterior offered a satisfying crunch that even someone with a less-than-sweet tooth like mine couldn’t resist.
All in all, Kobashi’s donuts are unexpectedly well-made and are the main draw for most diners (myself included). While their hot foods could use some refinement, it’s worth noting they’ve only recently opened their doors.
With time, I’m sure they’ll perfect it.
Are you ready to upgrade your brunch game?
Coffeehouse by Kobashi
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📍79 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058709
🕐 10am–6pm (Daily)
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Photos by Sheree Chua
