Beloved Filipino Bakery-Café Chain, Mary Grace, Makes Its Debut In Singapore

If you’ve ever wanted a café that feels like popping over to your best friend's house for her mum's cooking, Café Mary Grace has got you covered. The beloved café chain from the Philippines has just opened a 28-seater spot on Tras Street, Tanjong Pagar, and it's every bit as cosy and welcoming as you'd hope.

Founded in 1994 by Mary Grace Dimacali, the brand started as a home-based bakery where she whipped up small batches of sweet treats like fruitcakes, cream puffs, lemon squares, and brownies. Soon, her bakes made its way to bazaars and local markets, and eventually to a brick-and-mortar bakery kiosk in 2002, followed by the first Café Mary Grace in 2006.

Diners at the Singapore outlet will get to enjoy Mary Grace's signature favourites - Ensaymadas and Cheese Rolls - alongside Filipino dishes and Singapore-exclusive creations.

Cosy, Home-Like Ambience

There's a warm feeling right as you step through the doors! Mary Grace Dimacali has personally handpicked and arranged every décor piece, giving it a distinctly homey touch.

Photo from Mary Grace

Photo from Mary Grace

Stained-glass pendant lights hang over wooden accents, while a collaborative mural by Filipino artist Amanda Lapus Santos and Singaporean artist Eunice Hannah Lim adds a playful splash of colour. Photographs and handwritten notes peek out from under the tables, inviting diners to leave their own messages.

Photo from Mary Grace

Mary Grace's Signature Pastries

Two must-tries are the pastries that made Mary Grace a household name in the Philippines: The Mary Grace Ensaymada ($5.50) and Cheese Rolls ($4.30). Contrary to their names, cheese lovers will prefer the former, a brioche crowned with premium aged Edam cheese that give every bite a piquant cheesy taste and crumbly texture. We preferred the latter which has a delicately crispy bottom, uber-soft texture and a smooth creamy cheese centre with a mild flavour. It's delightful on its own, but if you're craving a sugar rush, try dipping it in the Mary Grace Hot Chocolate ($7.50), a rich, thicc and sweet treat that's worth the calories.

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

There are also Singapore-exclusive creations, including a Salted Egg Ensaymada ($6.50) and our top pick of the quartet, the Kaya Pandan Cheese Roll ($5.30), which has a fresh, refined aroma and subtle sweetness that pairs so well with the cheese.

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

Starters, All-Day Brunch & Desserts

Of course, Mary Grace is more than just bakes! You can also expect an extensive menu of comfort food that'll take your tastebuds to the Philippines.

Start off your feast with a sharing dish like the Cassava Chips with Onion Dip ($12), which is guaranteed to be a hit at your table. It comes with crispy, paper-thin chips and a umami-rich dip made from caramelised onions, sour cream, and herbs. And if your dip disappears too fast (trust us, it will), you can ask for one more serving - it's on the house!

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

On the all-day brunch menu are simple comfort food like toasts and sandwiches. For something more substantial, go for the Angus Beef Tapa ($25.50), a heritage dish with sweet-savoury sirloin strips marinated for 24 hours. It comes with garlic or rosemary rice and eggs done your way.

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

When at Café Mary Grace, you can't miss out on the dessert! Go for the best-selling Mango Bene ($14.50). Or if you're feeling more adventurous, try the Toasted Almond Sans Rival ($13.50). Made with layers of almond flakes, meringue, butter, and a touch of rum, it has an intriguing texture that's chewy, crispy and creamy all at once.

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

When to Dine-In

From now till 15 April:

• Weekdays: Limited walk-in seats available
• Weekends: Reservations-only

From 16 April onwards:

• Walk-ins welcome every day, including weekends
• Limited reservations available

Café Mary Grace Singapore
Address: 52 Tras Street, Singapore 078991 (Tanjong Pagar MRT Station)
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm
Website | Instagram | Menu