What’s in the Box?

Standard Bun offers a tempting variety of flavors, and I grabbed a box of 8 distinct buns to sample:

• Salt Mocha Bun
• Coconut Bun
• Red Velvet Cookie Bun
• Earl Grey Cream Bun
• Matcha Cookie Bun
• Milk Cream Bun
• Melon Cream Bun
• Potato Cheese Bun

Each bun is handmade with a soft, chewy base and generously filled with flavored creams or toppings - an indulgence that promises both variety and excitement.

Top Flavors Worth the Hype

Both of these offered unexpected delight. The Melon Cream Bun burst with fruity freshness, while the Earl Grey Cream Bun had a refined citrusy aroma that lingered from first bite to finish — ideal for tea lovers seeking a twist in their treats.

While most of Standard Bun’s flavors lean sweet, they do venture into savory territory. The Potato Cheese Bun was surprisingly enjoyable — creamy, cheesy, and rich with a pleasant lingering aftertaste. However, the base dough seems more naturally suited to sweet flavor profiles, making the savory offerings feel a bit selective and polarizing. 

Standard Bun brings a welcome and whimsical addition to Singapore’s bakery scene. While not every bun is a knockout, the overall experience — from variety to novelty to presentation — is undeniably fun. If you're curious or just in the mood to treat yourself, this pop-up is worth checking out before it disappears in August.

Some countries you visit once. Japan is one you keep coming back to. And each visit adds a new layer to my love for it, shaped not by monuments or itineraries, but by meals: simple, soulful, sometimes unforgettable.

 An Ultimate Guide: Where to Go, What to Eat & What Not to Miss in South Korea

Taipei is a food lover's paradise, buzzing with vibrant flavors, iconic eats and unforgettable culinary experiences. I had some of the most amazing and interesting food finds in this city. I didn’t realize how much I missed Taipei until I arrived. It’s been too long, and I’m so glad to be back. 

On my recent trip to Taiwan's capital, I dove into the heart of the city's food scene - from award-winning restaurants to bustling night market and beloved local tea shops. Here's a taste of my top must-try spots in Taipei. 

Craving bubble tea? You can't visit Taiwan without sipping on a cup of 50 Lan (also known as 50 Tea), one of the country's most popular bubble tea chains, you will see them everywhere. I grabbed a classic oolong tea with half sugar, and it hit the spot with its perfect balance in sweetness, roasted tea, and chewy tapioca pearls. What sets 50 Lan apart is the customization - they let you tailor your drink just the way you like it. Whether it's oolong milk tea, jasmine green, or something fruitier, there's something for every tea lover. 

3. Ningxia Night Market - Street Food Heaven

To cap off a day of eating, I headed to Ningxia Night Market, one of Taipei's most beloved (and local-favorite) night markets. Though smaller than Shilin, it's packed with incredible street eats and less touristy charm. 

Here's what I tried:

• Oyster Omelet - a gooey, savory classic with tangy sauce
• Grilled squid on a stick - fresh, smoky, and topped with spicy powder
• Peanut Ice Cream Roll - sweet peanut shavings and cilantro wrapped around creamy taro ice cream in a rice paper wrap. Strange sounding, but uniquely delicious

If there's one thing that's hard to resist, it's a dessert that dares to be different - and Chewy Junior definitely ticks the box. Somewhere between a cream puff and a donut-mochi like texture, these chewy little pastries offer a one-of-a-kind snacking experience that's as fun to eat as it is to look at. 

The first thing that hits you is how cute and colorful they are. Each puff is slightly golden, beautifully topped with shiny glazes, whipped cream, chocolate drizzles, nuts, or chocolate chips and sprinkles. They're not too big nor too small - just the right size to satisfy a craving without going into sugar overload. 

Texture Talk: The "Chewy" in Chewy Junior

So, what makes them special? The texture. It's not quite a donut and not quite the ordinary cream puff either. Instead, it's this unique, bouncy choux pastry that feels almost mochi-like. When you bite in, there's a crispy crunch on the outside followed by a satisfyingly chewy center. It's unexpected - but in the best way. 

Flavor Adventures: 

One of the exciting things about Chewy Junior is the sheer variety of cream puff flavors available ranging from classic strawberry and cream to bold matcha, rich chocolate, and even seasonal or local specialties. There’s truly something for every palate. With so many unique flavors to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one! It makes every visit feel like a new experience. Chewy Junior prides itself on offering over 30 different flavors of cream puffs, making it a true haven for dessert lovers. Whether you’re into classic choices or more adventurous picks, there’s always something new to try. This wide variety not only keeps things exciting but also makes Chewy Junior perfect for group sharing or repeat visits - there’s always a new favorite waiting to be discovered. When it comes to the cream filling, it's generous without being overwhelming. 

Final Thoughts:

 Gelato Messina, Australia's iconic gelato brand, has officially opened its first Singapore outlet, delighting local dessert enthusiasts with its signature handcrafted gelato and innovative flavors.

The new store, located in Club Street, features the brand’s signature minimalist interiors with an open kitchen concept that lets visitors watch the gelato-making magic happen. From the very first day, long lines stretched outside the store as curious patrons flocked in to get their first taste. 

• Kaya Toast - a nostalgic nod to the iconic breakfast staple, complete with toasted bread chunks and sweet kaya swirls.
• Singapore, How Are You Durian? - bold, creamy and unapologetically Southeast Asian.
• Tau Huay - silky smooth soy pudding reimagined in gelato form. 
• Teh Tarik - the classic pulled milk tea turned into a rich, malty dessert. 
• Ondeh-Ondeh - inspired by the traditional glutinous rice ball, this flavor features pandan-infused gelato with bursts of gula melaka and grated coconut 
• Yolk's On You - a cheeky salted egg-based creation with gula melaka caramel

Prices start at $7.50 for a single scoop, $10 for two scoops, and $12 for three scoops - with portions that are generous and full of flavor. And if you can’t get enough (like us), grab a take-home tub -available in various sizes, so you can enjoy your favorites anytime.

 Filipino cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, and when it comes to desserts, the Philippines doesn’t hold back. From chewy rice cakes to sweet, creamy delicacies, Filipino desserts are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you're in the Philippines or enjoying these treats abroad, these desserts will transport you straight to the heart of Filipino culture.

Why it’s a must-try: Traditionally enjoyed during Christmas time, bibingka has a delicious smoky flavor from the banana leaves, which gives it a unique taste.

Puto Bumbong is a traditional Filipino rice cake made from purple glutinous rice that's steamed in bamboo tubes, giving it its iconic cylindrical shape. The rice is cooked until it turns a beautiful deep purple color, and it’s typically topped with grated coconut, brown sugar, and sometimes muscovado sugar for an extra depth of sweetness.

Why It’s a Must-Try: This rice cake is synonymous with Christmas in the Philippines. It’s often sold by street vendors near churches during the Simbang Gabi (a series of early morning masses in December), making it a nostalgic and festive treat. The combination of the chewy rice, the sweetness of the sugar, and the richness of the coconut makes it absolutely irresistible.

The unique thing about Puto Bumbong is the method of preparation—being steamed in bamboo tubes gives it a subtle smoky aroma that enhances the flavor. It's not just a dessert but an experience, steeped in tradition and holiday cheer.

Fun Fact: The term puto in Puto Bumbong refers to any type of steamed rice cake, while bumbong refers to the bamboo tube used to steam it. The tube gives it a unique texture and flavor, and the term “bumbong” is even used in some regions to refer to other types of food prepared in bamboo.

Filipino desserts are a delightful way to explore the country’s rich culture and flavors. Whether you're a fan of sweet, creamy treats or chewy rice cakes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Go out and indulge in these delicious Filipino delights!