The reason for its popularity is announced in the name of the store: rich, and decadently good Swiss rolls. While the cake might have originated in Europe, the homegrown bakery—which was founded in 1997—has created an enduring and winning recipe that celebrates local flavours. Durian, a popular option, is added between a layer of fluffy sponge, while freshly made pandan custard forms an aromatic filling for the signature kaya roll. Today, the bakery has two outlets, including a kiosk with long lines at Jewel Changi Airport.

Rich & Good Cake Shop, 24 Kandahar Street, S(198887)

Read more: 5 Best Local Dessert Shops in Singapore

This store specialises in just one item: the humble ang ku kueh. What started as a small outfit with just two flavours (peanut and mung bean) in 1988 has since grown into a multi-outlet business. Still, Ji Xiang Confectionery chooses to mould everything by hand; the painstaking process helps ensure the glutinous skin remains thin and chewy. Not everything remains rooted in the past, though. With the second generation at its helm, the store has since introduced modern flavours of durian and yam to its lineup, alongside a novel rainbow-hued iteration. 

Ji Xiang Confectionery, 1 Everton Park, 01-33, S(081001), +65 6223 1631

In case you missed it: How Atlas Handcrafted Made Over 150 Individual Nonya Kuehs for Kim Lim’s Engagement

There lies a pocket of old-world New York in Singapore. Steeple’s Deli is quite the institution; this is, after all, the first deli in Singapore. The family-owned store first opened its door in 1981, and provides a fuss-free menu of massive sandwiches, sloppy burgers, and creamy milkshakes. Entering the space feels almost like stepping into a time capsule: browse the handwritten chalkboard menu, and grab a seat at its wooden bar counter before chowing down on a hearty Reuben, where corn beef, sauerkraut, and cheese come stuffed between toasted rye slices. 

Steeple’s Deli, Tanglin Road, 02-25 S(247909), +65 6737 0701

Dona Manis Cake Shop comes tucked in the basement of Katong Shopping Centre. It might be easy to miss this unassuming bakery, but luckily, there seems to always be a small crowd outside of the store. Most would hover around the glass display, where daily bakes are proudly arranged. Pastries are all handmade, and everything is freshly prepped from scratch. Must-gets include the banana pie, crowned with coconut shavings and toasted almonds; rich chocolate tarts; and choux cream puffs. 

Dona Manis Cake Shop, 865 Mountbatten Road B1-93, S(437844), +65 6440 7688

Read more: The Best Homegrown Ice Cream Brands in Singapore

The loaves of bread on display each spot an uneven char—a sign that Sweetlands still chooses to bake things the traditional way. Inside, the ovens have been kept warm since the 1960s, where bakers work round the clock to churn out warm treats of Nanyang-style buns, ‘rainbow’ bread, French loaf, and more. Made without any preservatives, the goods at Sweetlands are meant to be consumed within a day or two—not that you’ll have any problem finishing its charmingly nostalgic bakes.

Sweetlands Bread and Bakery, 10 Kim Keat Lane, S(328867), +65 6253 3100 

NOW READ

The Best Laksa in Singapore, According to Local Chefs

Cakes, Tarts and Financiers: The Best Local-Inspired Bakes in Singapore

Where to Get 2D Comic Cakes in Singapore—the Latest Food Trend the Internet Is Obsessed With