It’s been awhile since I’m here writing about FOOD, but going to Keen’s Bagelry and trying out his bagels has really pushed me to do this, despite my crazy schedule. I chanced upon this little Bagel store within Curbside Crafters when I was there supporting some of our home-based crafters and businesses. The enthusiasm and passion that Keen has for his food is literally translated to his bagels – I wouldn’t be doing the experience justice, if I did not write about it.
Just in case, you guys didn’t know I have a recent obsession with these local small businesses after discovering how talented our local artists are. (And how many cute pokemon items I could find!) Curbside Crafters is basically like a retail-like space where creators are able to set up their booths there to display / sell their items. Keen’s Bagelry is located just right inside this meaningful space.
A side note / disclaimer: The quality of my photos might seem a little grainy, because Explodingbelly is in her Tiktok era. She just takes a lot of videos and forgot about photos. But her trusty Samsung does a pretty good job in helping to do the photos from video captures, with some being just a little grainy.
The Place
They are located along North Bridge Road, a short walk from Bugis MRT. You shouldn’t miss Curbside’s sign just outside the building, because it’s pretty big.
Walking right through the space, would bring you to Keen’s Bagelry right at the corner. The store looks something like this:
A pretty small space – yet substantial enough for them to serve up some solid bagels. The downsides of having such a small space, the queues can get pretty long and there are very limited seating areas. They would actually get your number upon your order, so that you can shop at ease and come back for your food, when it’s ready. The bagels are made ala minute so that you’re always promised fresh, warm and fluffy bagels.
The Food
There’s just something charming about these bagels in the basket.
The menu has a range of “chef curated” bagels and you are also able to DIY your very own bagel combinations.
I went for the Truffle Chickin ($12) which is made with a generous chunk of grilled chicken leg, with Keen’s secret truffle mayo. Ordering this, just because it only has limited portions a day. I’m such a sucker for such terms – typical Singaporean. I added on the Scrambled Egg with Mozzarella (+$4) because I was staring at how creamy and delicious the eggs looked, while he was preparing the other orders.
Watching Keen prepare the bagels, you could literally feel his passion for the craft. In addition, through watching his interaction with the people in the queue, despite trying to “cook faster” to shorten the wait time, his sincerity just shines right through. Deserves my wholehearted respect.
Truly a masterpiece. The portion of chicken is so huge, that my bagel was actually heavy. I finally get to try out the bagel, after swallowing my saliva for the couple of bagels before me.
The Experience
Slaps. Damn good. The bagels were actually fluffy, and provides the contrast in textures to the tender chicken between. Aside from the truffle mayo sauce, the chicken was also marinated well, so can you imagine, the layers and layers of flavors unveiling itself? Every bite was just so satisfying. If I had to share something bad about the experience, that would be.. The bagel is too huge and it can get messy eating it. So… it might not be the best place for first dates, OR you can always order the other bagels, OR don’t be as greedy as me to add on the scrambled eggs. You’d be fine.
Closing Remarks
It’s been ages since I have been to a place where the chef exudes so much passion and love for his food. That was the first thing that bought me over at Keen’s. Watching him prepare his food with so much energy and excitement, was just like watching a show unfold right in front of everyone’s eyes. A really fun experience for us, judging from the looks on everyone’s faces.
If there’s a place you’d love to add on to your list, Keen’s Bagelry is definitely one of them. Besides, the entire space makes a darn good shopping / dating spot where you get to look at items that are unique, and handcrafted by local businesses. Win-win! Click on the link to check out my Tiktok video on the experience over at the store!
Find Keen’s Bagelry at:
730 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 198698
Nearest MRT: Bugis
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday – 12pm to 8pm (or till sold out!)
Closed on Mondays
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