Chinatown Bakery - Tong Tea

Delightful Pastries and Unique Taiyaki Creations

Nestled in the vibrant labyrinth of Chinatown, this delightful bakery is a sanctuary for dessert aficionados craving an enchanting fusion of flavors. Upon entering, you’re immediately greeted by an aroma that promises hidden magic behind each glass display. The taiyaki ice cream, affectionately nestled in its fish-shaped cone, emerges as the crowd-pleaser—its embrace of creamy softness and the chewy texture of the salty cone proves to be an exquisite journey for the palate. While the matcha swirl may leave one yearning for a touch more authenticity, it presents itself elegantly amid a panorama of delightful variations waiting to be sampled.

The bakery's aesthetic—a charming haven punctuated with whispers of Eastern tradition—is complemented by an obliging staff whose sole mission seems to be ensuring you carry a piece of delectable happiness home. Highlights include enticing pandan cakes, aerial custard buns, and unexpectedly, a walloping selection of bubble teas that lure even the staunchest skeptics (myself included), with the promise of a liquid dream extraordinary enough to merit specks of Instagram endorsement. Moderately priced pastries allow the dollar-conscious customer to indulge liberally, discovering bittersweet walnuts to ethereal sesame balls, each providing its distinctive taste-memory. Overall, this unassuming gem underscores why repeated jaunts to Chinatown's streets are not only justified but essential. — Jasper Griddle