The egg tarts from 198 Tanjong Katong Road are back.
Madeleine’s Original Portuguese Egg Tarts — the flaky, blistered, custard-filled institution that closed in August 2024 after 26 years — has just reopened as a sit-down Macau cha chaan teng at Aperia Mall.
The revival is led by siblings Zac (Benjamin Zachery Ong), 22, a SHATEC graduate, and his 18-year-old sister Vernice. After the original founders retired and shuttered their Tanjong Katong shop, the pair tracked them down, learnt the original recipe firsthand, and rebuilt the brand — with the founders’ blessing and ongoing involvement at every step.
How’s the food?
The OG egg tart — called the Po Tat ($2.5) — is still the star. Crust was perfectly flakey, with a luscious custard. Personally, I loved how it wasn’t too sweet. Every tart is also baked fresh daily in-house exactly as the founders did.
There’s also a new Gula Melaka Portuguese Egg Tart ($2.8) infused with caramelised palm sugar for a fragrant local twist.
But for something that’s completely non-traditional, the Po Tat a la Mode ($3.8) pairs the warm egg tart with hay-smoked ice cream and milkcrumbs — probably the most interesting thing on the menu.
The rest of the card leans into Macanese comfort food: Bolo Bun ($3.5) with flavoured butter and vanilla cream, Pork Chop Bun ($5.9) with mustard seed sauerkraut and sweet shoyu glaze, and Crab Congee ($8.9) topped with an onsen egg.
For something more filling, the Minchee Rice ($10.9) is a Macanese classic updated with beef and pork Asian ragu, a 63-degree confit egg, and potato confit. This was surprisingly hearty, but I did find the portion of meat a little too small for the price.
Instead, my recommendation would be the Pan-Roasted African Chicken ($9.8). Super thick and juicy cut of chicken thighs, paired with a mild spicy sauce. But, the skin could’ve definitely been crispier.
Desserts include Coconut Tapioca Pudding ($4.9) to Coated Tropical Fruits ($6.9), with Breakfast Bundles from $4.5.
FAQ
- What should I order at Madeleine’s Original at Aperia Mall?
Start with the OG Po Tat ($2.50) — it’s the reason this brand has a cult following. If you’re dining in, the Po Tat a la Mode ($3.80) with hay-smoked ice cream is the standout new creation.
- Is Madeleine’s Original at Aperia Mall the same recipe as the Tanjong Katong original?
Yes. The siblings trained directly under the original founders and use the same recipe and egg tart-making process. The founders remain involved at every step to ensure continuity.
- Is there a queue at Madeleine’s Original?
The brand has a loyal following — expect a wait on weekends, especially right after opening. Weekday visits during off-peak hours are your safest bet.
- Is Madeleine’s Original at Aperia Mall halal?
Halal certification has not been confirmed at time of writing. Check their Instagram for the latest updates before visiting.
Location: Madeleine’s Original Portuguese Egg Tart Aperia Mall, #01-54 Aperia Mall, 12 Kallang Avenue, Singapore 339511
Opening hours: 11am-8pm
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