Fortune Centre Dessert: 11 Hidden Sweet Spots You Probably Walked Past

You came for the vegetarian restaurants and fortune centre food places featuring local dishes… but you’ll stay for the fortune centre dessert scene.

Fortune Centre, located at 190 Middle Road, is known for its affordable prices and variety of vegetarian restaurants serving local dishes like fried hokkien mee, fried rice, and authentic clam noodles. Most people grab their noodles or rice and leave, but over the past eight months, I’ve explored this hidden mall’s quiet corners and uncovered a remarkable fortune centre dessert scene across various floors. This includes family-run traditional shops with handmade sweets and refreshing drinks like those at Tracy Juice Culture, famous for its organic ingredients and thick broth udon noodles with broccoli and cherry tomatoes.

Near Bugis and Orchard Plaza, fortune centre food places offer nostalgic treats from warm Chinese desserts to crispy waffles. Look past the fluorescent lights and functional decor to discover some of Singapore’s most satisfying sweets alongside savoury options such as fried hokkien mee with wok hei, chive pork dumplings, fresh cockles in wawa special sauce, and seafood dishes.



Here’s my guide to 10 dessert spots and eateries you probably walked past but should try.

1. Yat Ka Yan Dessert (Level 2): Traditional Cantonese Sweets with a Homely Ambience

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Located at: 190 Middle Road, Fortune Centre
Price: S$3.50–S$7.50
Opening hours: 1:30 pm – 10 pm (Mon, Wed – Thurs), 1:30 pm – 11 pm (Fri – Sun), closed on Tues

What stood out: Yat Ka Yan Dessert offers an immersive experience into authentic Cantonese dessert craftsmanship. The careful balance of textures and flavours in their durian chendol, combining fresh durian flesh with green rice flour jelly and a subtle sweetness from coconut milk and gula melaka, creates a layered palate that refreshes and satisfies. Their yammy chendol (orh nee) is a comforting warm dessert, notable for its velvety texture and natural sweetness enhanced by coconut milk and organic ingredients, presenting a genuine taste of traditional home cooking. The cheng tng, with its combination of white fungus, dried longans, and barley, provides a light, nourishing option that complements Singapore’s tropical climate.

The shop's cozy, old-school Hong Kong-style interior reinforces the nostalgic feeling, making it a welcoming spot for family gatherings or quiet afternoons. Attentive service and the use of fresh, daily-sourced ingredients contribute to a dependable quality that keeps locals returning.

Best for: Those seeking a genuine Cantonese dessert experience in a relaxed setting, especially suitable for sharing with friends or family.
Avoid if: You’re pressed for time or prefer modern cafe environments, as queues can build up during peak hours.
Bernice’s menu hack: Try pairing one cold dessert like the durian chendol with a warm option such as orh nee for a balanced tasting experience.

2. Duke Dessert (Second Floor): Traditional Chinese Desserts with a Contemporary Twist

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $3.80 – $7.00
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 12 pm to 11 pm, closed Mon



What stood out: Duke Dessert blends traditional recipes with creative elements that enhance texture and flavor complexity. Their beancurd grass jelly with ice cream and tapioca balls incorporates an interplay of silky, chewy, and creamy sensations, with tapioca balls infused with natural flavors like taro and matcha, and chestnut boba adding a nutty depth. This combination invites a mindful tasting experience that goes beyond simple sweetness.

While the setting is functional and lacks cafe aesthetics, the emphasis is on the quality and authenticity of the desserts, ideal for those who prioritize the food itself over ambiance.

Best for: Dessert enthusiasts who appreciate traditional Chinese sweets with layered textures and flavors, and who don’t mind a no-frills environment.
Avoid if: You prefer a leisurely cafe atmosphere with extensive seating.
Bernice's menu hack: If Yat Ka Yan is busy, Duke Dessert serves as a convenient alternative with a slightly more spacious seating arrangement.

3. Mama Patisserie (First Floor): Affordable Plant-Based Breads and Cakes with Distinctive Flavours

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $2.80 – $6.80

What stood out: Mama Patisserie excels in delivering vegan and plant-based baked goods that highlight distinctive, earthy flavors without excess sweetness. The black sesame bun features a gritty, robust paste that maintains authenticity without overpowering the palate, while the beetroot fusilli and matcha chestnut cake balance the slight bitterness of matcha sponge with the natural sweetness of chestnut cream, offering a nuanced tasting experience.

Though seating is limited, the bakery’s approachable prices and quality make it a go-to for quick, wholesome snack options or takeaways.



Best for: Visitors seeking budget-friendly, plant-based snacks with unique flavor profiles for on-the-go enjoyment.
Avoid if: You want to linger and socialize; seating is minimal and the space is primarily designed for takeaway.
Bernice's menu hack: Visit in the late afternoon to catch clearance deals on freshly baked breads.

4. Crescent Waffle & Sandwich Shop (First Floor): Classic Waffles with a Nutty Black Sesame Pandan Twist

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $5.50



What stood out: Crescent Waffle & Sandwich Shop transforms a familiar snack into an engaging experience through its black sesame pandan waffle. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the chewy, vibrantly green interior creates a satisfying mouthfeel, while the black sesame filling melts into the warm waffle, delivering a rich, nutty flavor that lingers pleasantly.

This spot is ideal for a quick indulgence or a comforting break during shopping excursions, with a focus on straightforward, well-executed flavors.

Best for: Those seeking a nostalgic yet elevated snack that combines texture and flavor in a compact form.
Avoid if: You’re in a large group or need ample seating, as space is limited.
Bernice's menu hack: Pair the waffle with a hot black coffee to offset the richness and enhance the overall tasting balance.

5. Tsumiki (Second Floor): Japanese Artisan Bakery Specializing in Soft Shokupan and Tangy Sourdough

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $6.00 – $10.00

What stood out: Tsumiki offers a refined Japanese bakery experience focusing on artisan breads crafted with attention to texture and flavor. Their shokupan is characterized by a soft, milky crumb that pulls apart effortlessly, embodying the delicate balance of moisture and fluffiness prized in Japanese baking. The sourdough presents a complex tanginess with a blistered crust, showcasing fermentation techniques that appeal to bread enthusiasts.

This bakery invites a slower, more contemplative tasting experience, perfect for those who appreciate craftsmanship in simple staples.



Best for: Bread aficionados and fans of Japanese baking traditions looking for high-quality, artisanal products.
Avoid if: You prefer creamy or plated desserts over bread-based treats.
Bernice's menu hack: Arrive early to secure freshly baked, small-batch loaves before they sell out.

6. Little Nonya’s Cookies (Third Floor): Heritage Peranakan Kueh and Traditional Cookies

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $2.10 – $18.00

What stood out: Little Nonya’s Cookies preserves traditional Peranakan flavors through their handmade kueh and cookies. The kueh are chewy with authentic pandan and coconut milk flavors that evoke cultural heritage and nostalgia. The packaging and presentation maintain a simple, homegrown feel, emphasizing authenticity over modern embellishments.

This spot is well-suited for those wanting to explore Peranakan sweets in a budget-friendly way, ideal for sampling a good mix of heritage desserts.



Best for: Heritage dessert lovers and visitors interested in traditional Peranakan snacks.
Avoid if: You prefer modern cafe environments or plated desserts.
Bernice's menu hack: Select an assortment of kueh to enjoy while exploring the third floor's other offerings.

7. Bao Er Cafe (Second Floor): Local Breakfast Classics with Crispy Kaya Toast and Fried Egg

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $2.30 – $6.50

What stood out: Bao Er Cafe is a staple for those craving traditional local breakfast fare, with its kaya toast standing out for its thin, crispy toast layered with thick, fragrant house-made kaya and a cold slab of butter. The contrast between the warm toast and cold butter enhances the sensory experience, making it a satisfying snack or light meal. The addition of a fried egg completes the nostalgic breakfast experience. The cafe’s bustling atmosphere adds to the authentic local vibe.



Best for: Fans of straightforward, nostalgic local breakfasts and quick snacks.
Avoid if: You seek elaborate or plated desserts.
Bernice's menu hack: Complement the kaya toast with a hot kopi or tea to balance sweet and bitter notes.

8. Tracy Juice Culture (First Floor): Health-Focused Vegan Drinks and Meals with Organic Ingredients

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $6.00 – $9.90

What stood out: Tracy Juice Culture offers a thoughtfully curated menu of fruit-based drinks and vegan dishes made from organic ingredients. The pineapple-lemon drink stands out for its intense, natural refreshment without artificial additives. The thick broth udon noodles feature a rich, earthy mushroom base complemented by broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and mock meat, delivering a hearty yet clean eating experience.

This spot caters well to health-conscious diners seeking lighter, nutrient-dense options alongside refreshing beverages.



Best for: Those looking for organic, vegan-friendly drinks and meals that nourish without heaviness.
Avoid if: You desire traditional, chewy desserts or sweeter treats.
Bernice's menu hack: Visit during the afternoon heat for a revitalizing, icy citrus smoothie.

9. Killiney Kopitiam (First Floor): Classic Singaporean Breakfast with Charcoal-Grilled Kaya Toast

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $2.00 – $3.50

What stood out: Killiney Kopitiam delivers a quintessential Singaporean breakfast experience with its charcoal-grilled kaya toast, which imparts a smoky aroma and crisp texture. The accompanying soft-boiled eggs, seasoned with pepper and soy sauce, add a creamy and savory contrast, creating a balanced flavor profile that has made this a local favorite. The air-conditioned environment provides a comfortable setting to enjoy this classic.



Best for: Visitors seeking a familiar, no-frills Singaporean breakfast or snack in a comfortable environment.
Avoid if: You prefer innovative or trendy dessert options.
Bernice's menu hack: Dip the kaya toast into the soft-boiled egg yolks mixed with soy sauce for an enhanced flavor experience.

10. Seva Cafe (Second Floor): Ethical Vegetarian Dining with Plant-Based Desserts

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $6.00 – $10.00

What stood out: Seva Cafe combines ethical dining with culinary creativity, offering plant-based versions of local favorites alongside carefully crafted desserts. Their vegan chocolate cake is moist and rich without heaviness, showcasing how plant-based ingredients can replicate indulgent textures and flavors. The restaurant’s commitment to organic ingredients and social enterprise principles enhances the dining experience for conscious eaters.



Best for: Ethical eaters and those interested in plant-based cuisine that does not compromise on taste or quality.
Avoid if: Budget constraints are a concern, as prices reflect the use of premium organic ingredients.
Bernice's menu hack: Inquire about the daily special cake to experience seasonal or chef’s featured creations.

11. Pine Tree Cafe (Second Floor): Vegetarian Local Dishes and Delightful Desserts

Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (5-minute walk)
Price: $6.00 – $9.00
Opening hours: Mon 9am to 3pm, Tue-Sat 9am to 8pm, Sun 9am to 6:30pm

What stood out: Pine Tree Cafe offers a comforting range of vegetarian local dishes, including their famous Hakka thunder tea rice served with wholesome brown rice and a medley of fresh vegetables. Alongside their savory menu, they serve delightful desserts and refreshing drinks that perfectly balance the meal. The warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it a pleasant spot to unwind after exploring Fortune Centre.

Best for: Visitors seeking a wholesome vegetarian meal paired with satisfying traditional desserts in a relaxed setting.
Avoid if: You prefer a large variety of dessert-only options or a modern cafe ambiance.
Bernice's menu hack: Try their thunder tea rice followed by a light dessert drink for a fulfilling and balanced dining experience.

It is easy to walk past these unassuming storefronts when navigating the crowds of fortune centre. But next time you find yourself near 190 Middle Road or wandering the corridors of Fortune Centre, slow down. Look beyond the typical vegetarian restaurants and let your sweet tooth guide you. Whether craving warm yammy chendol or icy fruit drinks, this mall holds a quiet, delicious magic waiting to be discovered.



For those who love combining their outings with furry friends, you might also enjoy exploring my other article: 10 Pet Friendly Cafe Singapore: Pawsitively Purrfect for Coffee Dates with Your Pets! It highlights the best spots around the city where you and your pets can relax, sip coffee, and enjoy quality time together in a welcoming environment.