After a two-year hiatus following the closure of his celebrated ION Orchard flagship, renowned pastry chef Mohamed Al-Matin is returning to Singapore’s culinary scene with a cozy new venture. Slated to open in April 2026, Le Matin Petit will bring the chef’s signature French-technique pastries to the Viva Vista Shopping Mall in South Buona Vista. This scaled-back, takeaway-centric concept marks a homecoming for Al-Matin, who has spent the last several years expanding his brand through international pop-ups and high-profile collaborations.
A Reimagined Format in a Quiet Neighborhood
Moving away from the sprawling, high-traffic nature of Orchard Road, Le Matin Petit embraces a more intimate, “under-the-radar” atmosphere. The new space is designed primarily for grab-and-go service, catering to those looking for high-end patisserie quality without the formality of a full-service cafe.
The menu is set to evolve throughout the day. Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., the focus remains on savory sourdough brioche rolls. Diners can expect bold, inventive fillings such as red hot fried chicken and a sophisticated smoked beef cheek banh mi. These lunchtime offerings can be rounded out into a full meal with sides of soup, salad, or fries, accompanied by a curated selection of coffee, tea, and kombucha.
The Return of the Cult Classics
Fans of Al-Matin’s original portfolio have cause for celebration during the weekends. The chef plans to reintroduce the “cult classics” that defined his early success. These limited-edition weekend drops will include:
- Kouign Amann: The buttery, caramelized Breton treasure that first put Al-Matin on the map.
- Wagyu Bone Marrow Pie: A rich, savory masterpiece highlighting his penchant for boundary-pushing flavors.
- Pistachio Escargot: A vibrant, nutty twist on traditional viennoiserie.
- Fermented Mushroom Quiche: An earthy, umami-forward dish for savory enthusiasts.
Sweet Transitions: Introducing Après Gelato
As the sun begins to set, the venue will undergo a conceptual shift. While Le Matin Petit handles the morning and midday rush, the space will transition into Après Gelato in the later hours. This dessert-focused offshoot emphasizes small-batch churns and playful, precise flavor profiles.
Early menu previews suggest a mix of the traditional and the experimental, featuring flavors such as toasted rice, jasmine apricot, and a localized take on “After 8” mint chocolate. These will be served alongside freshly made waffles and multi-layered parfaits, positioning the South Buona Vista spot as a premier late-day dessert destination.
What You Need to Know
While the official opening date is still being finalized, both Le Matin Petit and Après Gelato are expected to debut simultaneously in April 2026. Given the “limited drop” nature of the weekend pastries and the scarce seating available at the new location, visitors are encouraged to arrive early once the doors officially open.
Location: 3 South Buona Vista Rd, #01-05 Viva Vista Shopping Mall, Singapore 118136.
Follow for Updates: Check @lematin.sg and @apresgelato.sg on Instagram for the definitive launch announcement.