Cafes and bakeries are popping up all over Singapore (more specifically, on the East side) — I can hardly keep up. A new opening that caught my eye, however, was Les Mains Patisserie, a hidden cafe tucked away in the tranquil neighbourhood of Siglap.
With only two tables and a single bar counter for dine-in, Les Mains is predominantly a takeaway concept. Still, it is a convenient spot for residents in the area in need of a sweet treat and/or caffeine pick-me-up.
The patisserie serves up handmade pastries and desserts prepared by the in-house pastry chef, hence the name “Les Mains” (French for “the hands”). Though not as extensive as its more established counterparts, the current selection of tarts, gâteaux, pound cakes, and choux gets the job done.
As someone who prefers tarts over cakes, I couldn’t wait to dive into these handcrafted beauties.
Exquisite tartes
The true test of a good patisserie lies in the most “basic” or standard option on their menu. In this case, the classic Fruit Tart (S$10.90), a buttery vanilla tart shell filled with light vanilla diplomat cream and topped with seasonal fruits, did not let me down. Who knows? You might find yourself humming to the tune of Strawberry Fields Forever.
If alcoholic desserts are right up your alley, the signature Chocolate Whiskey Tart (S$10.90) will do you no wrong. This is the real deal — a chocolate tart shell filled with vanilla caramel and topped with a silky smooth layer of whisky-infused Valrhona chocolate ganache.
The strong hit of whisky was a jolt to the senses, leaving slightly bitter traces on the tongue, rendering me powerless. I could do nothing but take another bite.
As someone with an inclination toward pistachio-based desserts, the Pecan Vanilla (S$8.90) left me swooning. Think crisp choux pastry filled with light vanilla cream, topped with a salted caramel swirl and concentrated pecan praline.
The balance of sweet, salty, and nutty was everything I wanted and more.
Other sweet offerings include the Strawberries & Cream (S$7.90) and Banana Chocolate (S$10.90) gâteaux, as well as mini Choquette (S$3 for 5pcs), Matcha Madelines (S$2.90 for 3pcs), and even a Truffle Mushroom Quiche (S$8.90).
The patisserie also has plans to roll out a savoury breakfast menu in the near future — I’m looking forward to that.
Don’t sleep on the coffee (and IG-worthy latte art) — it can definitely give neighbouring cafes a run for their money. I thoroughly enjoyed my White (S$5.50), a well-balanced, not-too-acidic medium roast.
Non-caffeine options include Chocolate (S$6.50) and freshly whisked Matcha (S$6).
For those who like it cold, the Cold Brew Black (S$6.50), Cold Brew Oat Milk (S$7.50), and Matcha (S$7.50) come in sleek glass bottles, and are perfect for sweltering afternoons.
Keep a lookout for the launch of their official website — you may be able to place pre-orders for both takeaway and delivery very soon.
If you’re grabbing a meal at the Springleaf Prata Place located just a few doors away, why not drop by Les Mains for a tart or two?
Les Mains Patisserie
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???? 47 Jln Tua Kong, Singapore 457247
???? 8am–5pm (Mon to Sun), Closed on Wed
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I'm always feelin' either boozy or boujee ✨