Artisanal chocolate pioneer Laurent Cafe & Chocolate Bar at Robertson Quay to close after 20 years

Channel NewsAsia (CNA)State / PublicCenter4 hr. ago

Laurent Cafe & Chocolate Bar, a Singaporean artisanal chocolate pioneer opened in 2006 by French pastry chef Laurent Bernard and his wife Iveta, is set to close after 20 years of operation. The cafe, known for its handmade chocolate bonbons, souffles, and cakes, announced its closure initially on August 6 but later moved the date to August 12. Owner Laurent Bernard cited 'financial burden' as the main reason for the closure, attributing challenges to reduced foot traffic and rising rental costs. While the physical cafe will close, the Laurent Bernard Chocolatier brand will continue operations online, offering products like cakes and chocolate boxes through its central kitchen. Bernard expressed emotional attachment to the venue and its community, thanking customers for their support in a farewell message.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on the closure of a local business without taking a political stance. It presents factual information about the business's history, reasons for closure, and future plans without advocating for any particular political ideology or agenda. The tone remains neutral, focusing on the

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A popular seafood restaurant named Scaled by Ah Hua Kelong, located in Hamilton Road, Singapore, announced its closure on September 13 after operating for seven years. The restaurant shared its decision via an Instagram post, expressing gratitude to customers and stating it would reopen at a new location soon. While no specific details about the new location were provided, the restaurant encouraged patrons to visit for one final meal. Customers expressed emotional reactions in the comments section, sharing fond memories and well-wishes. The establishment originally opened in 2017 in Haji Lane as a spin-off of the local fish farm Ah Hua Kelong and later moved to Jalan Besar. Founder Wong Jing Kai also launched another seafood venture, Smolder Seafood Grill and Bar, in Outram Road in August 2025.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on the closure and relocation of a private business, which is a commercial matter rather than a politically charged issue. Although the restaurant has cultural significance and community ties, the focus is on business operations and customer sentiment rather than political debate