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Parisian Delight in the Heart of Singapore’s CBD.
Chef Pang, the chef-owner of Antoinette, has always had a good sense of business and culinary acumen. Antoinette is just barely 5 years old, but Chef Pang’s work in Antoinette has wowed so many Singaporeans, expatriates and tourists alike. Just recently in September, Antoinette opened its third iteration, La Pâtisserie au Sofitel, in one of the most renowned designer hotels in the world, the Sofitel So.
For the uninitiated, Sofitel So are designer hotels found in Bangkok (Thailand), Bel Ombre (Mauritius) and Singapore. Each “So” is designed by a famous designer – Sofitel So Singapore is designed by Spanish interior designer, Isabelle Miaja who was inspired to blend French decadence with Singapore’s modernity.
Located in the heart of CBD and just adjacent to Lau Pa Sat, Sofitel So Singapore is graced by Queen Antoinette as you step in. The sharp-eyed patron will spot elements designed by the legendary Karl Lagerfeld – a cosy living room at the corner of the entrance decorated with a library of Lagerfeld’s books.
As a homage to the cultural heritage of the local delicacies, Chef Pang drew inspiration from Sofitel So’s nearest landmark – the Lau Pa Sat food centre. It is known for its street-styled satay, and from here, Chef Pang has come up with Antoinette’s interpretation of the satay – the Satay Swirl ($3.50).
It is a viennoiserie made of leavened butter pastry and shaped in a spiral with a swathe of Chef Pang’s interpretation of the satay flavour – your taste buds will recognise the hints of ground nuts, lemon grass and chilli. It is a rather exotic creation for a French pastry – as such, it might be of an acquired taste for some. Having said that, the light-as-air texture of the bread dough is definitely an Antoinette trademark.
And continuing on the mention of light-as-air pastries, my personal favourite is the French standard – the Antoinette’s Pure Butter Croissant ($2.50). Its buttery layers are satin smooth and the literally light-as-air croissant will leave you yearning for more. No where in Singapore will you ever find such a well made croissant. Bravo, Antoinette.
Antoinette’s list of must-try viennoiserie also include the Kouglof ($4), Pear Danish ($3.50) and the Bostock ($3). The Pear Danish (pictured above, in the foreground) is a crowd favourite – its caramelised pear is perfectly sweet. You will be surprised how quickly this pastry could disappear off your plate.
The next statement will be music to all fans of Antoinette’s viennoiserie – all of their pastries are available daily at Antoinette’s La Pâtisserie au Sofitel, unlike the weekend-only availability at their other outlets. Its frontage location allows its patrons to either cosy up in the little Lagerfeld Living Room or anywhere at Sofitel So’s lobby.
For the full Parisian monty, you will be greeted by some of Sofitel’s French-speaking staff. Patrons will be drawn to the beautiful logo of Queen Antoinette and be enticed by the fragrant scents of her pastries. Before you realise it, you would have ordered, not just the pastries, but their desserts and macarons, too.
Antoinette’s appearance at Sofitel So Singapore is akin to having the Queen herself gracing this iconic hotel. It is an ideal place for the hotel patrons and locals to get away, for a little while, from the hustle and bustle of the CBD and be enchanted by Antoinette’s immaculate offerings.
Expected damage: $15 – $30 per pax
Antoinette’s La Pâtisserie au Sofitel – 35 Robinson Road, Sofitel So Hotel (Lobby Level), Singapore 068876
