A family that cooks together, stays together. Or so the saying goes. With its old-school and understated setup, Yat Ka Yan Dessert may look like one of those multi-generational eateries that have been churning out beloved specialities for years. On the contrary, it was actually opened only four years ago by the Tang family, as a sister eatery to Ren Ren Desserts. 

Don’t estimate it, though, as this is one popular place whose nostalgic desserts and homely interior draws snaking queues, to its premises in Fortune Centre, especially on the weekends. 

Yat Ka Yan, which is Cantonese for “one family”,  specialises in traditional, handmade desserts, the ones that you often turn to for comfort after a family meal at the hawker centre.

One of the most highly sought-after items is Chendol ($5.50 for Yam, $6.20 for Durian). Icy and creamy, it’s the perfect remedy for our typically hot weather. The crushed ice is refreshing and the gula melaka adds a dash of indulgent sweetness, while the chendol noodles and red beans are comforting and natural-tasting. The coconut flavour is also distinct and fragrant. Opt for the durian flavour for an extra layer of creamy decadence. 

Durian Chendol ($6.20)

The Ice Jelly with Passionfruit and Soursop ($5) is another old-school dessert that’s on the tarty side. Make sure you mix the soursop well with the ice jelly, unless you want your tastebuds to be confronted by intense, sour flavours! 

Ice Jelly with Passionfruit and Soursop ($5)

Aside from desserts, you can also indulge in some nostalgic breakfast items with a twist. The Creamy Chee Cheong Fun ($5) puts a savoury twist on the traditional dish, with a pasta-like sauce topped with chopped bak kwa, fried shallots, and spring onions. Quite an intriguing combination that packs an extra punch on this otherwise unassuming item. 

Other more substantial items include Stewed Pork Belly Rice ($4.80) and Vegetarian Beehoon ($3). 

Creamy Chee Cheong Fun ($5)

I appreciate how affordable Yat Ka Yan’s dishes are, especially in a central neighbourhood like Bugis. That must also explain the long line of customers waiting to try their quality desserts. Next time you feel like trying something different from the usual Western cafes, do spare some time to check out Yat Ka Yan. 

Address:  190 Middle Road, Fortune Centre, 02-08, Singapore 188979
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Nearest MRT:Bugis EW12/DT14, Bencoolen DT21, Bras Basah CC2 
Opening Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 11.30am – 10pm
Friday to Sunday: 1.30pm – 11pm
Closed on Tuesday

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