A walk through Kampong Gelam always turns into more than just a stroll. Heritage architecture, vibrant art, indie boutiques, and street-side bites call out from every corner. But for those with a sweet tooth, there’s one spot that deserves your attention — Chowzan Dessert (超赞甜品) at 801 North Bridge Road. It’s more than a sugar stop. It’s a celebration of local flavors done thoughtfully and with flair.
Since 2019, Chowzan has built a name for itself as a dessert brand that doesn’t shy away from creativity. The name means “extremely good” in Chinese — and they work hard to live up to it. Located right within the heart of Kampong Glam, this outlet combines casual charm with a deep appreciation for both tradition and playful experimentation.
Why Chowzan Feels Right at Home in Kampong Gelam
Kampong Gelam thrives on contrast — heritage side by side with reinvention. Chowzan fits right in. The shophouse exterior on North Bridge Road feels rooted in the neighborhood’s historic charm, while the desserts blur boundaries between classic tong sui and contemporary cafe treats. It’s the kind of place where shaved ice and durian mochi can share the same table, and no one bats an eye.
The alfresco courtyard adds character to the space, offering a relaxed spot to catch your breath after wandering Haji Lane or visiting Sultan Mosque.
Over 80 Reasons to Stop In
The menu reads like a greatest-hits list for dessert lovers. With more than 80 handcrafted creations, it spans categories that speak to all moods: hot, cold, chewy, soupy, creamy, fruity, herbal, indulgent.
Highlights by Category:
1. Mango Madness
- Mango Pomelo Sago: Creamy, chilled, generous chunks of sweet mango, pomelo bits, and those addictive mango pops.
- Mango Sticky Rice with Coconut Ice Cream: A Thai-style classic that gains crunch from a sprinkle of corn. Bright, bold, and refreshingly not cloying.
2. Durian Lovers
- Double D24 Durian Boost: A hit of real durian in cold, creamy form. Great for sharing — or hoarding.
- Durian Mochi: Soft and chilled with a fragrant punch inside.
- Fried Durian Balls: Crisp on the outside, molten on the inside.
3. The White Chendol
- Chowzan’s modern riff on a hawker favourite. Instead of green pandan jelly, you’ll get white coconut jelly strips. No pandan scent, but a firm bite that carries the rich gula melaka and coconut milk well.
4. Traditional Tong Sui (糖水)
- Eight Treasure Cheng Tang: Warm, earthy, with deep herbal notes and a comforting finish.
- Black Sesame Paste & Red Bean Paste: Familiar, comforting, and slightly less sweet than the usual.
- Orh Nee (Yam Paste with Pumpkin Puree and Gingko): Made with shallot oil for a rich and silky texture.
5. Modern Wellness Additions
- Peach Gum Desserts: Light, jelly-like texture with touted collagen benefits. Served with ingredients like snow fungus and lotus seeds.
Must-Try Picks for Kampong Gelam Wanderers
If you’ve got limited time or a full belly from nearby nasi padang or murtabak, start with these no-regret orders:
- White Chendol – For those chasing something familiar but reworked with finesse.
- Mango Sticky Rice – Especially good if you’re visiting on a humid day.
- Durian Mochi – Easy to eat, intense flavor, doesn’t overwhelm your taste buds.
These are portable too, making them ideal to enjoy in the courtyard or carry along Bussorah Street.
What Locals and Tourists Are Saying
Chowzan’s rating stands at 4.7 out of 5, based on over 2,200 reviews. The buzz isn’t just hype. Regulars mention:
- Generous portions – One bowl can easily be shared between two, though you may not want to.
- Balanced sweetness – Unlike some dessert shops, Chowzan manages to hold back on excessive sugar.
- Ingredient quality – No skimping on durian, mango, or coconut. The textures are thoughtfully executed.
Some note that a few options lean too sweet for their taste, but most agree the variety ensures something for every palate.
Why It Works in a Place Like This
Kampong Gelam is full of fusion. Malay roots, Islamic culture, indie fashion, and modern art all converge. Chowzan follows this blueprint — paying respect to heritage through its tong sui and old-school ingredients while mixing things up through creative presentations and novel additions like peach gum or mango popping pearls.
Its location between traditional textile shops and mural-covered walls gives it an edge. You’re just as likely to bump into a local grandma craving yam paste as you are a tourist looking for a photo-ready mango dessert.
Details You Shouldn’t Miss
Address: 801 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198769
Vibe: Casual indoor-outdoor seating, rustic interior, family-friendly
Best Time to Visit: Post-lunch or late evening after dinner at nearby spots
Delivery: Available island-wide via food delivery apps
Events & Custom Orders: Offers corporate catering and dessert boxes with branded logos on request
Wrapping It Up
Chowzan belongs in Kampong Gelam because it shares the same spirit — respectful of tradition, playful with interpretation, and ready to serve everyone who steps through its door. It’s the kind of place where a durian ball, a bowl of cheng tng, and a spoonful of mango sticky rice can coexist without fuss.
So if your path through Kampong Gelam leads you past North Bridge Road, follow the scent of gula melaka and coconut milk. There’s a bowl waiting for you — and maybe a second one, too.
