Not many people know that “Hvala” is actually pronounced as ‘fa-lah’. The Croatian word translates to “thank you”.
But if you call it ‘Hva-LA’, I guess people still understand what you mean.
A curious name for a Japanese-style teahouse, but once you sit down with one of their matcha lattes, the gratitude may start to make sense.
I recently returned to the 111 Somerset outlet, and it looked very much different.
Gone were the zen vibes, white interiors, soft lighting and the slow, restful feel.
The tiered seating section that looks like a cross between a tea amphitheatre and a university lecture hall still remains.
The interior now feels brighter and more youthful with touches of yellow. It’s definitely more energetic than before.
(Some people may find the change too bold? But Uncle Dan here is fine with it.)
Behind the sleek counter, there is supposed to be a robotic matcha whisking arm. Though it was still a human making the drinks when I visited.
The drinks are where things start to get creative.
Choices include Yuki Matcha Latte ($8.50 iced), Hikari Matcha ($13.50), Kumo Matcha ($12.50), Hojicha Latte ($7.50), and Genmaicha Latte ($7.50).
Flavoured options bring in fun without going overboard, like Sakura Matcha Latte ($7.80), Strawberry Matcha Latte ($7.80), Bluepea Matcha Latte ($7.80), and Hojicha Kinako Latte ($7.80).
For something light and clean, there’s also cold-brewed teas like the 1925 Oolong ($6.50).
Why is the Iced Strawberry Matcha trending now again?
For Hvala’s version, sweet strawberry puree anchors the base, and the earthy matcha on top brings contrast. Stirred together, it may feel like a matcha parfait in liquid form.
A little creamy, fruity, a bit indulgent. One of the better ones I tasted recently.
The Bluepea Matcha ($7.80) was more mellow. The lavender-hued foam on top gave it a floral lift, while the matcha below stays gentle.
It’s one of those drinks that looks better than it tastes, but yes, it is ‘instagrammable’.
Sweet options are where Hvala include Dairy-free Waffles with genmai and syrup ($15.80), Fudgy Chocolate Brownie with Gelato ($13.80), the elegant Chaffogato ($9.50), and Hojicha Choux Puff ($7.50).
Then there are the layered tea desserts.
I had the Matcha Petit ($10.90), which came with thin sponge, chantilly cream, and a crisp feuilletine base.
It was not shy on the matcha, with a touch of bitterness right up front, then mellowed into something nutty and soft.
But it can be a little rich, and you may want to share this with someone (unless you’re matcha-obsessed).
Price-wise, it’s definitely in the “treat yourself” category.
It’s also clear they’re not just chasing aesthetic. The Hvala team is committed to the craft.
Hvala 111 Somerset
111 Somerset #01-10, 111 Somerset Rd, Singapore 238164
Opening Hours: 12pm – 9:30pm (Mon – Sun)
Other Related Entries
Lucine by LUNA (111 Somerset)
Cakebar (Punggol Waterway Point)
Cafe Gyoen (Club Street)
Rise Bakehouse Heritage (South Bridge Road)
Patisserie Iku (Marine Parade)
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