This is one of the rare reviews I’ve hesitated to write about. After all, these are one or two spots every foodie holds dear, that they prefer to protect at all costs against an impending horde of fellow cafe-hoppers and bloggers. Nevertheless, it seems my hesitation is unfounded, judging by how Paaru Cafe is already seeing swelling crowds, with curious folks making the pilgrimage to Pearl’s Hill Terrace even on weekdays. 

Pearl’s Hill Terrace has become quite the hangout for hipsters (is that term even relevant anymore?) seeking “hidden gems” in food or experiences. If Paaru Cafe’s vibe seems a little familiar, it was opened by the team behind Asaru Studio, a retail space with a Japanese-style dessert and tea experience. The same team is also the creative force behind now-defunct RONIN, PUNCH, and Gather. 

With its dim lighting and wabi-sabi interior, Paaru Cafe would make the perfect spot for a slow afternoon with a cuppa, if not for the overwhelming bustle of other customers packing its premises to the brim. 

Crowds aside, Paaru Cafe delivers welcoming vibes and attentive service. Like Asaru Studio, the feeling you get when you step in is almost as though you are stepping into someone’s abode. An abode furnished with dark wood furniture and an open-concept kitchen and batista counter. 

The menu is simple and straightforward, with the majority of its main dishes featuring their housemade shokupan. The Eggs on Shokupan ($12+) are especially reminiscent of RONIN’s eggs on toast. You can choose between scrambled and poach, and judging by most other tables, it’s clear scrambled is the more sought-after style of eggs. 

The scrambled eggs are cooked to perfection, yielding textures that bring to mind a warm silky blanket enveloping your tastebuds. The concentration of salt towards the middle of the egg might make it taste a tad bland around the edges, though. You can also top up to get thick-cut bacon or mushroom on the side. 

As for the shokupan, it’s incredibly soft and fluffy. You can taste just a hint of milk in the bread, and I’m sure this is the item that Paaru will come to be known for. 

Most of Paaru Cafe’s mains are catered to the sweet-toothed, with fruit salad and museli available for those seeking a non-bread-based brunch. Satiate dessert cravings with a French Toast Shokupan ($12+) which features kuromitsu, caco nibs, and sea salt and fresh cream. 

Non-coffee drinkers may reward themselves (especially following that uphill climb) with a refreshing juice or Iced Chocolate ($8+). 

Paaru Cafe exudes a quiet, cozy charm that is complimented by its Japanese-style decor and friendly staff. Hopefully, they’ll be able to serve other cakes and desserts from their sister bakery, Paaru Bakery after their current soft launch! 

Address: 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace, 01-61, Singapore 168976
Google Maps
Nearest MRT: Chinatown DT19/ NE4
Opening Hours:
Thursday and Friday: 9am – 7pm
Saturday to Sunday: 8am – 6pm
Closed on Monday and Tuesday

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