Where to find the best kueh lapis in Singapore

Kueh lapis knows how to make its entrance. With its jewel-toned layers and slow, almost meditative baking process, this Peranakan classic has long been reserved for celebrations — from festive occasions to milestone birthdays.

But in recent years, it’s found a wider audience, with artisanal bakeries and heritage brands alike giving the rich, buttery cake a fresh moment in the spotlight.

Across Singapore, you’ll now find everything from time-honoured recipes that stay true to tradition to modern interpretations that play with flavours such as pandan, chocolate, and even durian.

Whether you’re after a classic slice with that unmistakable caramelised edge, or a contemporary take that leans a little more indulgent, these are the spots to know when the craving strikes.

The Fullerton Cake Boutique

Impress the in-laws with an elevated kueh lapis hewn from regional spices and oodles of top-grade butter, courtesy of The Fullerton Cake Boutique at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore.

The hand-baked slab is best enjoyed, liberally sliced, with a cup of black tea or kopi — and, of course, lots of good company.

Find out more here.

Alice Boulangerie & Restaurant

Alice Boulangerie & Restaurant turns its signature style of homegrown savoir faire toward everyone’s favourite Indonesian delicacy.

Expect a classic and suitably unctuous rendition of kueh lapis that doesn’t let up on the coconutty fragrance, available in both regular and large sizes.

Find out more here.

Royal Istana

Royal Istana serves up Singapore’s best and most exquisite kueh lapis, bar none.

Setting aside the exacting craftsmanship, the brand says that the cake’s 18 layers measure up at just a diaphanous three millimetres thick — each and every kueh lapis is presented in a lush crimson box with the Royal Istana insignia emblazoned in metallic gold.

Find out more here.

Old Seng Choong

While Old Seng Choong’s cookies often take the spotlight, don’t sleep on the homegrown brand’s housemade kueh lapis.

Its version promises the same handmade buttery decadence without the requisite post-lapis coma.

Find out more here.

Olella

Ollella prides itself on using only 100 per cent butter from Holland to bake kueh lapis according to a 60-year-old Indonesian recipe from the founder’s grandmother.

Alongside the Signature Spiced flavour, customers can choose between Prune and Nutella — or mix and match them for the ultimate party snacks.

Find out more here.

Bengawan Solo

Most likely the first location most Singaporeans head to in search of traditional pastries, Bengawan Solo is a tried-and-tested name that’ll help satisfy your craving for this spiced cake.

Find out more here.

IndoChili

Located at Zion Road, you can get IndoChili’s delicious kueh lapis in a handful of flavours, including Original, Plum, and Durian. Moist and non-greasy, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones and come in medium and large sizes.

Find out more here.

Deli Indo

If variety is what you’re looking out for, then Deli-Indo is definitely the one for you. Boasting a wide array of kueh lapis flavours to cater to all tastes, you can also expect full-bodied, fragrant traditional flavours such as Mocha, Original Spice, and Prune.

Find out more here.