Pies and kaya dessert among new items at Chin Mee Chin Confectionery's upcoming Nex outlet

Fans of the 101-year-old Chin Mee Chin Confectionery can soon enjoy its famed kaya buns and new offerings at the brand's second outlet, opening at Nex mall on Aug 8. The new location, situated near an exit of Serangoon MRT Station, represents the institution's first venture beyond its iconic Katong shophouse.

Founded in 1925, Chin Mee Chin became renowned for its old-school bakes and retro ambiance. After closing in 2018 due to operational challenges, it was revived in 2021 by F&B group Ebb & Flow in partnership with the founding Tan family. Ebb & Flow CEO Lim Kian Chun stated that expanding beyond Katong was a long-held hope for the family.

"This year, we finally felt that we had the right team, systems and operational foundation in place to take that first step," Lim told 8days.sg. "Nex was a natural choice because it is one of Singapore's busiest community hubs. It allows us to bring Chin Mee Chin to a wider audience while staying true to what has made the brand special for generations." The company plans further expansion next year.

The Nex outlet, a 26-seat self-service cafe, reinterprets the original's design cues with a contemporary feel. While drawing inspiration from the Katong shophouse, the team deliberately avoided a direct replica. References to original tile patterns, striped motifs, and the brand's signature blue-and-cream palette are incorporated into the new space, which features booth and table seating, open bakery displays, and a visible coffee counter. The outlet will also have extended hours, staying open until 9:30 p.m. for dinner service.

While the menu includes signatures like kaya buns (S$2.80) and luncheon meat buns (S$2.80), some old-school favorites such as cream horns and chiffon cakes will not be available at the Nex outlet. These items require specific production methods best suited to the flagship store and may be introduced later based on customer demand. Additionally, buns will no longer be charcoal-toasted, a tradition from the original outlet.

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This year, we finally felt that we had the right team, systems and operational foundation in place to take that first step. Nex was a natural choice because it is one of Singapore's busiest community hubs. It allows us to bring Chin Mee Chin to a wider audience while staying true to what has made the brand special for generations.