Singapore is packed with shopping malls filled with familiar café chains and international food brands, but some of the city’s most memorable afternoon treats are hiding in older neighbourhood malls. Tanjong Pagar Plaza is one such place. Rather than flashy concepts, it houses independent businesses and long-standing food stalls that have built loyal followings through quality and consistency.
So, if you just happen to be craving something sweet after lunch or looking for a satisfying tea break, these spots offer flavours that are well worth seeking out.
Elijah Pies
Artisanal pies are still relatively uncommon compared to cakes and pastries, making Elijah Pies a refreshing find within Tanjong Pagar Plaza. What began as a homemade Nutella pie created by founder Elijah for his girlfriend has grown into a bakery known for imaginative flavour combinations inspired by childhood memories and travels.
Its menu has expanded to include dozens of original creations, but the signature pies remain the main attraction. The Apple Crumble Cinnamon Pie is an excellent choice for those who enjoy warm, comforting flavours. Fresh apple slices provide a pleasant crunch while the cinnamon comes through distinctly without overwhelming the dessert, and the sweetness stays nicely balanced.
For something brighter, the Yuzu Meringue Pie combines creamy citrus filling with a gentle tanginess that contrasts beautifully against its buttery crust. Pair it with a coffee, and it makes for an afternoon break that feels far more indulgent than an ordinary café visit.
Elijah Pies
Location: 7 Tanjong Pagar Plz, #01-102, Singapore 081007
Opening Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 10 AM – 10 PM | Friday-Saturday: 10 AM – 10:30 PM
Wei Wei Carrot Cake
Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most satisfying, and Wei Wei Carrot Cake proves exactly that. The stall focuses almost entirely on one speciality, allowing it to perfect every plate prepared.
Each order is cooked individually, resulting in carrot cake that’s packed with flavour without becoming excessively oily. Many regulars recommend adding extra egg, as the generous portions create a wonderfully fluffy texture that complements the soft rice cake pieces.
Both the white and black versions are popular, with a pleasant level of spice and surprisingly generous serving sizes for the price. If you’re in the mood for something sweet afterwards, the stall also offers comforting traditional desserts such as red bean soup, green bean soup and yuba with ginkgo nuts, making it an excellent one-stop destination for a satisfying snack break.
Wei Wei Carrot Cake
Location: 6 Tanjong Pagar Plz, #02-52, Singapore 081006
Opening Hours: Open Daily 6:30 AM – 2 PM
Chef Yamashita
Tucked away quietly inside the plaza, Chef Yamashita is the kind of bakery many people discover only through word of mouth. The compact shop may not attract attention with elaborate décor, but its creations certainly do.
The bakery is led by Japanese pastry chef Yamashita Masataka, whose experience spans bakeries in Japan before establishing himself in Singapore. The result is a delightful blend of Japanese precision and French pastry techniques.
Its famous Castella Cake is wonderfully moist with a delicate honey aroma and a denser texture than a typical sponge cake. Those looking for something different should also consider the chewy Kome Kome Ring or the elegant Lychee Strawberry Sponge Cake.
The cream puffs deserve special mention as well, featuring crisp shells that give way to smooth, creamy filling. Chocolate lovers, meanwhile, are unlikely to regret ordering the Choco Renga, whose rich layers are complemented by an unexpected crunchy element. With friendly prices and no additional service charges, it’s an easy place to revisit.
Chef Yamashita
Location: Blk 7 Tanjong Pagar Plz, #01-103, Singapore 081007
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11 AM – 3 AM | Sunday: 1 PM – 1 AM
DOPA
Ice cream becomes something a little more sophisticated at DOPA, a gelateria built around the idea that desserts should bring happiness. Even its name comes from dopamine, the hormone associated with pleasure and excitement.
Unlike many ice cream shops, DOPA places nuts at the centre of its recipes, producing gelato with remarkable depth of flavour. Its Roasted Pistachio is arguably the star of the menu, made using the shop’s own pistachio paste and delivering an intensely earthy, nutty profile that pistachio fans will appreciate.
Another standout is the Ferrero flavour, which combines house-made hazelnut paste with cocoa and dark chocolate for a rich, luxurious experience. Those who prefer classic desserts can opt for the Vanilla Tiramisu, where cream cheese, coffee-soaked ladyfingers and cocoa powder recreate the beloved Italian dessert in frozen form.
Whether you’re cooling down after work or simply satisfying a sweet craving, DOPA offers an artisanal gelato experience that stands apart from standard ice cream chains.
DOPA
Location: 1 Tanjong Pagar Plz, #01-43, Singapore 082001
Opening Hours: Open Daily 7 AM – 9 PM
Meeting You
For desserts that feel comforting rather than extravagant, Meeting You offers handmade Cantonese treats inspired by recipes many people associate with home cooking. The desserts are generally light and balanced, avoiding excessive sweetness while allowing their ingredients to shine.
The Green Water Ghost Pistachio Paste is particularly enjoyable, with its nutty flavour and slightly silky consistency. Roasted pistachios sprinkled on top provide additional crunch and texture without making the dessert feel heavy.
Another favourite is the Milk Snow Ice Grand Slam, which combines fluffy shaved ice with chewy taro balls that carry a distinct taro fragrance. The accompanying pistachio paste is thick and flavourful while remaining pleasantly restrained in sweetness.
If you’re after something more traditional, the Durian Chendol offers an old-school flavour profile enhanced by tiny coconut bites that add texture throughout. The welcoming staff are also happy to explain the menu, making it easy for first-time visitors to find something they’ll enjoy.
Meeting You
Location: 1 Tanjong Pagar Plz, #01 44b, Singapore 082001
Opening Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 12 PM – 10 PM | Friday-Saturday: 12 PM – 11 PM
Final Thoughts
Tanjong Pagar Plaza may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning an afternoon snack, but that’s precisely what makes it rewarding to explore. Instead of generic chain outlets, you’ll find independent bakeries, specialised food stalls and dessert shops that each bring something distinctive to the table.
From handcrafted pies and Japanese pastries to artisanal gelato and comforting local desserts, these hidden gems demonstrate that some of Singapore’s best snack breaks can still be found inside its older neighbourhood malls.