Does Joo Chiat need another bakery cafe when there are already a few famous ones around?
Well, it does.
Bastille Bakery has opened on Joo Chiat Road in the space once occupied by Blue Smoke.
The bakery is the creation of two neighbours who lived upstairs and downstairs from each other and decided to turn their shared passion into a business.
Apparently, the French bakery chef was previously from Tiong Bahru Bakery.
The name “Bastille” nods to France, chosen as a symbol of strength and change.
Inside, the space feels slightly more roomy compared to many boutique bakeries in Singapore.
Light filters in, there is breathing room between tables, and the counter stretches wide with breads, pastries and cakes on show.
You see sourdough loaves, rustic bread, croissants, Danishes and glossy éclairs, all presented with a sense of confidence.
Pastries include Almond Cream Croissant ($6.50), Chocolate Almond Financier ($6.50), Raspberry Almond Financier ($6.50), Grande Decadent Cookie ($6), and Chouquettes ($10 for 8 pcs).
There is the cake side with Hazelnut Praline Éclair ($13), Blueberry Éclair ($13), Raspberry Almond Vanilla Tart ($13), Lemon Yuzu Tart ($13), and Caramel Pecan Vanilla Tart ($13).
After asking for recommendations, I ended up with the Hazelnut Praline Éclair ($13).
The choux shell was light with a fine crisp at the edges, while the praline cream inside was smooth and nutty with just enough chocolate to ground the sweetness.
Roasted hazelnuts on top added texture and contrast. Worth the order, though I would recommend sharing this rather than eating it alone.
The Almond Cream Croissant ($6.50) offered something more rustic.
The layers were well defined and broke apart with a good crack, the top scattered with sliced almonds and sugar.
Instead of the usual frangipane filling, the almond cream was rich and carried a rum note that announced itself almost immediately. Best paired with coffee to balance the richness.
Service was polite and brisk, with staff ready to answer questions about the pastries.
Coffee is available and serviceable, but the pastries are the reason to visit.
Bastille Bakery
261 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427515
Opening Hours: 8am – 4pm (Wed – Fri), 8am – 6pm (Sat – Sun), Closed Mon, Tues
Other Related Entries
Bee Hoe Coffee (Joo Chiat Place)
Cata Coffee (Joo Chiat)
Same Days Coffee (Joo Chiat)
Caro Pâtisserie (Joo Chiat)
Café Wabi Sabi (Joo Chiat)
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