Homegrown brand Mr Bucket Chocolaterie launches new cacao-infused dishes at Dempsey
If you’ve ever dreamt about stepping into a world made of chocolate, Mr Bucket Chocolaterie at Dempsey Hill might be the closest thing to it.
After opening its flagship factory, this homegrown bean-to-bar chocolate brand is still rewriting the chocolate playbook with innovative craftsmanship and bold flavours.
It opened a cafe concept in late 2022, dishing out curated light bakes and beverages. But now, it has launched a brand-new, full-fledged menu that features cacao as the starring ingredient in most of its dishes.
With wooden rattan furniture, high ceilings, and pops of lush greenery, the space at Dempsey feels less like a shop, and more like a tranquil escape from the usual city buzz.
From the cosy indoor dining area, to the breezy al fresco patio, it — like many Dempsey spots — exudes the kind of vibe that makes you forget you’re still in Singapore. For those who are able to work remotely, it’s also a charming spot to settle in for the day.
There’s also an open-concept kitchen proudly showcasing its in-house processes and how cacao transforms from bean to bar.
All these elements are what draws you into the Mr Bucket Chocolaterie world, where this key ingredient takes centrestage — and not just in desserts!
Beyond dining, Mr Bucket Chocolaterie also offers hands-on workshops, curated tasting events, and a build-your-own chocolate bar for chocolate enthusiasts of all ages.
It’s almost like the whimsical world of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, but with a lot more heart and warmth.
Choc-full of surprises
On top of its regular sweet treats and drinks, the menu now offers a wide array of savoury delights, too. And it was the signature beef burger (S$22) that caught our attention.
Mr Bucket Chocolaterie’s rendition brings together the usual suspects — a juicy angus beef patty cooked to your preferred doneness, melted cheddar, and a fried egg between two lightly toasted brioche buns. Crispy fried onions on the side add a welcome crunch.
What sets it apart is its very own chocolate barbecue sauce. It comes generously layered within the burger, with an extra helping on the side that’s perfect for dipping the fried onions into.
The consistency veers toward jammy. Though it was still indulgent, we’d have loved it just a touch less thick. Delicate cocoa undertones weave seamlessly into its smoky, savoury profile. It’s a surprising combination that works — intriguing, without overwhelming the palate.
Nonetheless, it’s a bold and satisfying twist on the familiar — and one that’s worth a try.
If you’re looking for something to share — or just want to wake up your palate — the cacao tea somen (S$14) is a refreshingly unique way to kick off your meal.
It features somen (Japanese cold noodles) served in a chilled cacao tea and tomato broth, accompanied by poached chicken, marinated tomatoes, and pickled shimeiji mushrooms.
We weren’t quite sure what to expect with such a mix of ingredients, but wow, I was hooked by the mildly tangy, yet sweet, broth.
Served cold, it’s the kind of bright, zesty dish you’d want on a sweltering day — revitalising and addictive.
When it comes to drinks, there are two clear winners on the menu — the 72% single origin hot chocolate (S$8) and the cacao husk lemon tea (S$8).
The hot chocolate features 72% cacao granules from Davao, Philippines, steeped in milk. Rich, smoky, but not overpoweringly bitter, this cup offers depth, while still remaining smooth and accessible to even non-choco fans.
Personally, it was the iced cacao husk lemon tea that stole the show.
Cold-brewed with cacao husks, the tea strikes a delicate balance between its earthy and nutty notes, with just the right hint of sweetness. Topped with a light lemon-and-cacao foam, it adds a refreshing citrus lift that brightens the entire drink.
It’s invigorating, yet light — and one I’ll be coming back for!
For a brief break from the cacao-centric items at Mr Bucket Chocolaterie, the basque burnt cheesecake (S$10) with key lime crumble is perfect for dessert lovers.
Thick, creamy, and silky-smooth, it’s decadent without being overly cloying.
While the price is on the higher side, the generous portion makes it worthwhile and perfect for sharing the calories with your loved ones.
Sure, there are other non-chocolate options, too. But let’s be honest, why travel all the way there for those? It’s the chocolate-infused creations that truly make Mr Bucket Chocolaterie at Dempsey Hill worth the trip!
This was a hosted tasting.
For the latest eats, read more about modern Chinese restaurant Choon Hoy Parlor with unique baijiu dishes and China’s viral Bao’s Pastry at Paya Lebar Square.
Thursday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)
- Napier
Shannon has the taste buds of a grandmother and perpetually struggles with a food coma.
Read more stories from this writer.
