Siyuan Desserts - Traditional Chinese Desserts Hidden In A Cheongsam Shop

Tucked away in the charming neighborhood of Jalan Besar, Siyuan Desserts 思源糖水铺 represents a delightful resurgence of traditional Chinese dessert cafes in Singapore. In fact they go a step further than most dessert shops by being literally nestled inside a cheongsam shop. The concept is ingenious - while you savor traditional Chinese desserts, circular windows along the walls allow you to peer into a space full of Mandarin gowns, and if you're lucky, you may spot seamstresses carefully putting together stunning cheongsam.

The name "思源" itself carries deep meaning, evoking a sense of tradition and origin, fitting for this place. This thoughtful approach to preserving cultural heritage through both food and craftsmanship makes Siyuan Desserts stand out in Singapore's competitive dessert scene.

Ambience and Interior Design

The moment you step inside, you're transported to a different era. The interior design exudes nostalgic and oriental elements in a way that is classy and chic; not too over-the-top. The space features heavy wooden chairs that you'd typically find in Chinese restaurants, creating an authentic old-school atmosphere.

The oriental vibes are further accentuated by soothing music that has been described as hotel lounge-like, creating a perfect environment for relaxation and contemplation. The cafe exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a tranquil oriental garden, making it an ideal spot to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Bestselling Menu Items: The Must-Try Desserts

Based on customer reviews and staff recommendations, here are the standout items that keep diners coming back:

#1 The 3 Mini Bowls ($6.50) - Customer Favorite

This is arguably the most popular choice for first-time visitors, allowing patrons to sample the cafe's three signature pastes: almond, sesame, and walnut. The sesame paste is the personal favorite among many reviewers, thanks to its nutty flavor and smooth, creamy texture with a hint of bitterness that adds balance. One reviewer noted "Love their bowls of thick dessert paste! My favourite out of the three is the walnut paste!"

Chendol ($4.50) - Surprising Hit

Despite not being a traditional Chinese dessert, their Chendol was described as "such a good choice" with perfect amounts of gula melaka and coconut milk that "wasn't too sweet nor too rich". The gula melaka itself was very thick, with a beloved salty finish, and the red beans were well-cooked till soft but not mushy.

Mango Sago ($5.50) - Refreshing Favorite

This cold dessert was praised for not being too sweet and tasting "like it was made entirely with real mangoes". This dessert features generous chunks of fresh mango alongside sago and tadpole jelly, providing a delightful textural contrast.

Cheng Teng with Peach Gum ($5.50 chilled, $5 warm) - Health-Conscious Choice

This dessert features snow fungus, red dates, longan, and peach gum, making it very refreshing, especially in Singapore's hot weather.

Less Popular but Worth Trying:

• Orh Nee (Yam Paste)

• Walnut Cream

• Lotus Seed Suan

• Pulut Hitam

Special Combinations

• Yuan Yang 2-in-1 Bowl ($4.20)
  Popular choice combining Sesame & Walnut pastes

• 2-in-1 combinations - Mix any two desserts for variety

Pricing: Affordable Traditional Treats

Each dessert bowl is priced from $4 to $5.50, making it accessible for most budgets. The prices are nett, which means no additional service charge or GST, adding to the value proposition. This pricing strategy makes traditional Chinese desserts approachable for both locals and tourists looking to explore authentic flavors without breaking the bank.

Accessibility and Location

Located just an eight-minute walk from Lavender MRT Station, Siyuan Desserts is easily accessible by public transport. The establishment shares its space with Studio HHFZ, a cheongsam dressmaker, creating a unique cultural hub where food and traditional craftsmanship coexist.

Final Verdict

For those looking to explore traditional Chinese desserts with a modern twist, Siyuan Desserts at Jalan Besar is a destination that should not be missed. It is certainly worth a visit, whether you are a local or a tourist looking to experience the sweet side of Singapore's rich cultural tapestry.

The combination of authentic flavors, reasonable pricing, unique ambience, and cultural significance makes Siyuan Desserts a standout establishment in Singapore's dessert landscape. It's well worth the trip for anyone seeking a genuine traditional Chinese dessert experience.

Siyuan Desserts 思源糖水铺
Address: 111D King George's Avenue, Singapore 208559
Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 1:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
Contact: +65 8922 9094
Instagram: @siyuan.tangshuipu
Nearest MRT: Lavender (8-minute walk)