Joy Cake is one of the latest cafés to join the increasingly busy stretch of Lorong Liput in Holland Village, bringing an elaborate selection of cakes, tiramisu and Basque cheesecakes to the neighbourhood. Founded by pastry chef Nikita, whose career spans more than 16 years across Beijing and Europe, the street-level café has a distinctly dessert-led focus, with a display counter filled with beautifully finished individual cakes, puddings and whole celebration cakes. There is also a pet-friendly outdoor area, marked rather charmingly by a “dog parking” sign at the entrance.
The Tiramisu Collection is one of the main draws, with the Classic Italian Tiramisu joined by Mango Passionfruit and Berry Manor. The Basque cheesecakes come in flavours including Vanilla & Calamansi, Blueberry, Pineapple Coconut, Coconut Latte and Cinnamon Apple, while individual desserts include the Dark Chocolate Blueberry Crème Brûlée Cake and Madagascar Vanilla Caramel Pudding. The former combines soft chocolate sponge with blueberry mousse, custard and fresh berries beneath a caramelised crème brûlée topping, while the pudding keeps things simple with a smooth texture, fragrant vanilla and a slightly bitter caramel sauce. Prices sit a little above those of the average neighbourhood café, but the elaborate presentation certainly makes an impression.
Coffee comes with its own playful concept, The Six Chapters of Life, with drinks named First Encounter, Reunion, Delight, Together, Quiet Joy and Return to Essence. Together, an Orange Vienna Latte made with espresso, milk, cream and orange zest, brings a fragrant citrus note to the coffee. With its pretty desserts, themed drinks and polished presentation, Joy Cake adds another sweet stop to Holland Village’s rapidly evolving café scene. The cakes are undoubtedly photogenic, while a little more restraint with the cream could make the overall experience even more balanced.
