Ya Kun at Orchard Central tantalises with freshly-baked cookies counter “The toast that binds, the flavour that love defines” – this is how General Manager Ang Leng Hong defines Ya Kun Singapore, a home-grown brand that conjures up mouth-watering images of freshly made kaya toast in the minds of Singaporeans. The humble breakfast fare of soft-boiled eggs, traditionally brewed coffee and tea, together with crispy char-grilled toast served with its proprietary kaya recipe has translated into such a popular culture among the local crowd since its beginnings in 1944. What the brand has managed to preserve is not just the good old taste but a cultural heritage that has populated into an F&B staple, much like what Starbucks has achieved in the Western countries. “For the last 65 years, its time-tested menu and affordable prices have had locals and foreigners alike flocking to its outlets for a toasted slice of perfection,” says Mr Ang. Till date, the joint has over 30 outlets in Singapore, and the latest outlet at Orchard Central hints of the brand’s repackaging efforts to modernise the shop’s interior. The contemporary wall murals and barstool seating are in place for customers to experience a “new Ya Kun”. Of course, one of the star items that stays on the menu is the the Ya Kun Kaya Toast Set (consists of 2 slices of char-grilled Kaya Toast with Butter, two wet and runny Soft-Boiled Eggs and one traditionally-brewed hot Coffee or Tea). This is a time-tested menu, prepared exactly the same way as when it first started in 1944. Adding to these yummy bites are the new Ya Kun Kaya Handmade Cookies, fresh off the oven. The cookies are available in three flavours: Kaya Butter, Kaya Cereal and Kaya Pistachio. Ya Kun (Orchard Central) was the first outlet to launch the cookies on 1 November 2009, and is the only outlet to date with a freshly-baked cookie counter. They have since been selling island-wide. Last August, Ya Kun also launched an ice-blended beverage “Frostyz” and have introduced more flavours recently. Flavours include Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, Horlicks and Milo. In March 2009, the brand also introduced Up-Sized beverages island-wide. A purveyor of trends, Ya Kun may offer traditional favourites but it’s never satisfied with status quo. So look out for more exciting offerings!
