Introduction

Nestled within the bustling Hong Lim Complex, on Level 2, lies a quaint bakery that has quickly won the hearts (and taste buds) of many – Pretty Good Muffins (PGM). Having launched in August 2024, this up-and-coming establishment is redefining affordable treats with muffins starting at just S$1.30. Not only that, the bakery also boasts a selection of budget-friendly drinks, such as their delightful matcha lattes priced from S$4.

The Founders' Journey

The bakery is the brainchild of three dynamic founders, Mao, Pan, and Gang Yuan, who have cleverly infused their initials into the brand name. The trio transitioned into the food industry after receiving treasured recipes from a retiring senior baker—a leap of faith that has certainly paid off as they bring their vision to life.

Baking Process & Flavors

At Pretty Good Muffins, the baking process is as impressive as the products themselves. With base batter flavors such as classic Vanilla, rich Chocolate, and earthy Matcha, each muffin begins its journey in a wonderfully airy state. The additions of toppings like mashed bananas, chunks of Mars Bars, and flavorful jams create an enticing array of options that cater to every sweet tooth.

Standout Menu Items

While sampling the menu, one standout flavor was definitely the Nutella Sea Salt Muffin, selling at S$1.80. Although my friends and I noticed the muffin's delicious, fluffy texture paired excellently with the Nutella, a stronger hint of sea salt would have added that perfect finishing touch.

The showstopper among the matcha offerings was unmistakably the Matcha Strawberry Muffin, retailing for S$2.50. Visually striking, its bright strawberry jam center provided a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of yesteryear's baked goods. Combining the richness of matcha with nostalgic notes from the jam, it’s an absolute treat that leaves an impression.

Additionally, I was privileged to preview the upcoming Banana Pudding Matcha Latte, a drink that promises to be a hit when it officially launches. The combination of ceremonial-grade matcha, milk, and luscious homemade banana pudding strikes a balance of flavors that felt indulgent without being too sweet—a delectable option for matcha enthusiasts.

For banana aficionados, the Banana Walnut Muffin priced at S$1.90 was a crowd favorite, praised for its sweet and satisfying taste. Meanwhile, my personal craving for chocolate led me to try the Double Chocolate Muffin (S$1.50), which delivered a rich, satisfying flavor profile, though I would have loved for chocolate chips to permeate the muffin further.

But the revelation of the day was the Biscoff Muffin priced at S$1.90. This flavor swept everyone off their feet, featuring a delightful swirl topped with Biscoff cookie crumbles and a generous dollop of rich Lotus Biscoff spread hidden within. Its nutty caramel essence perfectly complemented the vanilla base, capturing our palates in a delicious embrace.

Conclusion

In summary, while Pretty Good Muffins may not claim gourmet status, they certainly excel in creating simple, delectable baked goods that can satisfy any sweet craving. They continue to innovate and expand their menu with new flavor experiments, ensuring that there’s always something exciting on the horizon. So, if you find yourself in Chinatown, make sure to stop by and indulge in one of their delicious muffins or grab a refreshing Banana Pudding Matcha – I promise, you won’t regret it!