Love them or hate them, durians are Singapore’s national fruit; unofficially, at least.
A fruit that is beloved for its sweet, creamy flesh that melts in your mouth, few varieties can match the almighty Mao Shan Wang variety when it comes to flavour.
A nice mix of sweet and bitter – and sometimes, both – it’s no wonder Mao Shan Wang durians are the most popular among Singaporeans.
If you’re a fan of durians and especially those of the Mao Shan Wang variety, rejoice because there’s a cafe dedicated to the fruit – and it serves the premium Mao Shan Wang variety.
Simply called Mao Shan Wang Cafe, this durian specialty cafe is opened by Four Seasons Durian.
Situated in Chinatown, it serves fresh durian in a tantalising array of desserts including mochi, strudel, ice cream and coffee (yes, coffee) made using the king of fruit.
The First And Only Durian Specialty Cafe in Singapore
Considering the fanaticism this fruit inspires, it’s a wonder it’s taken this long for someone to open a durian specialty cafe.
Step into the cafe and you’ll be welcomed by the strong, unmistakable smell of durian – a heavenly scent for hardcore durian fans.
With a simple, industrial aesthetic featuring brick walls and exposed beam ceilings, this cafe is the perfect place for an mid-day tea durian break.
The King And Its Subjects
If you think there are only so many things you can do with durian, think again – this cafe takes the fruit in both sweet and savoury directions.
On the sweet – and more familiar – side of things, there are durian puffs, ice cream, pancakes and mochi.
On a sweltering hot day, order the Mao Shan Wang Delight ($15.80).
Consisting of a mountain of Mao Shan Wang durian soft serve ice cream, this dessert comes on a bed of brownies, with mini marshmallows and almond flakes scattered all over it.
If you’re looking for a light bite, opt for either the D24 Durian Mochi ($5 for four) or the richer Mao Shang Wang Durian Mochi ($8.80 for four). Encased in a chewy mochi skin, the D24 mochi has a milder flavour while the Mao Shan Wang Mochi packs more of a punch with each mouthful.
On the savoury side of things, there is the Black Charcoal Mao Shan Wang Durian Pizza ($18.80), which consists of a charcoal pizza base topped with a mixture of Mao Shan Wang puree and cheese.
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, try their Durian French Fries ($3.80) and Durian Nuggets ($6).
With fries and nuggets served with a dipping sauce made of D24 puree, your tastebuds are in for an unusual experience when you order yourself a serving of either of these.
Craving some durian? Whatever you’re in the mood for, your needs will be well taken care of at Mao Shan Wang Cafe!
Mao Shan Wang Cafe
Address: 49 Temple Street Singapore
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 1.30pm – 10pm; Sat: 11am – 10pm; Closed on Sun
Contact no.: 6221 2338
Website
Also read Teppei Syokudo Is Releasing Self-Heating Bento Boxes And It’s Like We’re Living in The Future
(Header Image Source: Burpple User Dex Neo, Gardens With Purpose)