Yat Ka Yan Dessert at Tan Quee Lan Street near Bugis offers a delightful respite from Singapore’s relentless heat with their authentic traditional desserts. When talking about traditional desserts or sweet soups in Singapore, one would probably think of Yat Ka Yan, which literally means “one family” in Cantonese. This beloved dessert spot has garnered quite the following, and for good reason!

The Yat Ka Yan Legacy

The original Yat Ka Yan outlet at #02-08 Fortune Centre is perpetually packed with devotees of their traditional sweet treats. Their reputation for authentic traditional desserts has made them something of a local institution. When they opened their second outlet at Tan Quee Lan Street, it maintained the same popularity – I’ve never walked past without noticing a healthy crowd inside.

A Spontaneous Sweet Treat

My husband and I were enjoying a staycation getaway nearby when we decided to drop by for a post-lunch dessert. Talk about perfect timing – just as we entered, a table cleared out and a staff member quickly gestured for us to take the spot, handing us menus as we settled in.

The ordering system is straightforward:

• Head to the counter to place your order
• State your table number
• Make payment upfront
• Return to your table and wait for your desserts to be served

Cooling Down with Cold Desserts

In Singapore’s sweltering heat, cold desserts are practically a necessity rather than a luxury. We decided to order two refreshing options to share.

Durian Chendol ($7.50) – A Durian Lover’s Dream

The Durian Chendol at Yat Ka Yan arrives as a visual spectacle – crowned with a generous heap of real durian flesh that immediately signals its authenticity. The fragrance alone is enough to make any durian enthusiast swoon!

What makes this dessert special:

• Real durian flesh (not just flavouring)
• Rich, aromatic durian fragrance
• Generous portion size

While the durian component was exceptional, I found the chendol base itself rather ordinary. It certainly can’t compete with the best Teochew Chendul I’ve savoured in Penang, but comparing it to the durian chendol from 99 Old Trees, I’d choose Yat Ka Yan’s version.

My one complaint? The green jelly strands were disappointingly soft and carried a strong alkaline taste that left an unusual aftertaste. Not ideal for a dessert experience.

Avocado Sago ($8.00) – The Unexpected Star

This was the real surprise of our visit! The Avocado Sago dessert isn’t something I’ve encountered at other traditional dessert shops in Singapore, which immediately piqued my curiosity.

Let me tell you – it was absolutely fantastic. Unexpectedly refreshing, the avocado cream offered that perfect creamy texture that works so well in desserts. The dessert comes topped with vanilla ice cream, which adds another layer of creaminess but somewhat overpowers the delicate avocado flavour.

My pro tip: Eat the ice cream separately and enjoy the avocado base on its own to fully appreciate its nuanced flavour. Even better would be if Yat Ka Yan could serve this with avocado ice cream instead – now that would be a match made in dessert heaven!

Additional elements that enhanced the Avocado Sago:

• Chewy tapioca balls (similar to those in bubur cha cha)
• Jelly pieces layered underneath
• Moderate sweetness that prevents it from becoming cloying

The Yat Ka Yan Experience

The Tan Quee Lan location offers a simple but comfortable dining environment. Like many popular local eateries, it prioritises function over frills – you’re here for the desserts, not the decor.

What to Expect:

• A bustling atmosphere, especially during peak hours
• Efficient, no-nonsense service
• Clean tables and premises
• Reasonable prices for quality desserts

Best Time to Visit

If you’re hoping to avoid crowds, try visiting on weekday afternoons. The post-lunch and dinner periods tend to see the highest traffic, with weekends being particularly busy regardless of time.

Final Thoughts on Yat Ka Yan Dessert

Yat Ka Yan Dessert at Tan Quee Lan Street delivers on its promise of authentic traditional desserts with some creative modern options thrown in. The Avocado Sago was the undisputed highlight of our visit – an innovative creation that still honors traditional dessert elements while bringing something fresh to the table.

I would definitely return to Yat Ka Yan Dessert again, with the Avocado Sago already calling my name. There are plenty of other intriguing options on their extensive menu that I’m eager to explore during future visits.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of traditional Chinese desserts or a curious newcomer, Yat Ka Yan Dessert at Tan Quee Lan Street offers a sweet retreat from Singapore’s urban hustle and tropical heat. When talking about must-try dessert spots in the Bugis area, Yat Ka Yan should absolutely be on your list!