Pâtisserie CLÉ’s recent move to a picturesque shophouse at 415 River Valley Road marks a significant shift for this beloved homegrown brand.
While its central location now brings French pastry delights closer to its fans, note that this is still a takeaway store.
I thought that the absence of a dine-in option feels like a missed opportunity, especially in this row of shophouses which is full of eateries, yet quite devoid of cake cafes (well, does Coffee Bean count?).
Also there is no nearby parking for a quick get-and-go.
Nonetheless, their takeout and delivery services ensure that these culinary treats are still within reach.
The exterior is quite striking, in pastel colours with a huge keyhole icon signifying the opening of doors.
“Clé” is also French for ‘key’.
Their philosophy is to “uncover the key to unlock everyone’s hearts” by creating heartfelt sensations through a balance of flavours and textures, and between Asian and Western palates.
There is quite a range of classic entremets, tarts, pastries and bakes.
Behind the display, I saw the colourful arrangement include tarts of Orh Blanc, Mango Berry, Lemon Meringue, Strawberry, Blueberry Rose, Passion Sesame, to Chocolate Hazelnut.
When I asked if there are any exclusives, there is a cute apple-shaped bright red Apple Nutmeg Cake ($10.80).
Turned out that River Valley was known for its nutmeg plantation history, and this was created solely for the store opening.
Therefore, this entremet encased a nutmeg-spiced apple confit filling within a lightly spiced nutmeg mousse, all resting on a buttery sable base.
Loved that delicate spice which is not the usual cinnamon, except that I wished that it was overall a tad less sweet.
If this is your first time to Pâtisserie CLÉ, then get the Orh Blanc Tart ($9.80).
This creation by founders Germaine and Joy marries the traditional Teochew Orh Nee dessert with French pastry finesse.
The tart features layers of coconut cream, fresh yam puree, and vanilla Chantilly, topped with candied ginkgo nuts.
Despite yam desserts being on the starchy side usually, this was delightfully light and not too sweet. The base was crumbly and buttery, adding an aromatic fragrance.
Their Lemon Meringue Tart ($9.80) with a twist of hazelnut cream beneath its zesty lemon cream; and Sesame Passionfruit Tart ($9.80) which combines black sesame’s earthiness with the tang of passionfruit are other recommended sweets.
Beyond these desserts, Pâtisserie CLÉ’s signature also offers classic Croissant ($4.20), Almond Croissant ($5.80), Pain Au Chocolat ($5.20), Apple Crumble Danish ($5.80) and more.
For those seeking more substantial fare, options like Quiche Lorraine and Egg Salad Croissant Sandwich offer a savoury respite.
Despite the lack of a dine-in option, having a store at River Valley is nearer for those who want to try their pastries which merge French culinary techniques with local flavours.
Patisserie CLÉ
415 River Valley Road Singapore 248314
Opening Hours: 9am – 6pm (Mon, Wed – Sat), 9am – 5pm (Sun), Closed Tues
Patisserie CLÉ
79 Lucky Heights, Singapore 467627
Opening Hours: 9am – 6pm (Mon, Wed – Sat), 9am – 5pm (Sun), Closed Tues
Other Related Entries
Arc-en-ciel Pâtisserie (Neil Road)
Fang Patisserie (Anchorpoint)(Kallang)
Baker’s Brew (Paragon)
Keong Saik Bakery (Luzerne Building)
Ciel Patisserie (Thomson V One)
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