Polar Puffs & Cakes at JEM (unit #B1-31, 50 Jurong Gateway Road, operating 10:00am to 10:00pm daily) is a heritage bakery founded in 1926 that has evolved from a small café near the trading harbor to a beloved household name with over 30 outlets across Singapore. Originally known as Polar Café and established by Hong Kong immigrant Chan Hinky, the bakery built its reputation among politicians, lawyers, and businessmen due to its strategic location and exceptional quality offerings. During Singapore's Japanese Occupation, Polar Café remained one of the few businesses operating, earning historical significance as a symbol of resilience. In 2005, the company received the prestigious Heritage Brand award from the Singapore Prestige Brand Award, cementing its status as a cultural institution in Singapore's culinary landscape.
The signature product is the iconic curry puff—a golden fried pastry filled with curried potatoes, chicken, and hard-boiled egg—complemented by an extensive selection of premium baked goods including pandan-infused Swiss rolls with pandan buttercream, fragrant sugar rolls, 3D cakes, kueh lapis, specialty tarts, muffins, and various creative pastries. The bakery has innovated beyond traditional offerings to include curry rice and noodles, laksa, toasts, and Polarizza (their unique pizza-pastry fusion), ensuring diverse options for varied tastes and occasions. All Polar Puffs & Cakes products maintain halal certification, and the bakery offers comprehensive services including online ordering, islandwide delivery, and custom cake orders for celebrations and special occasions.
Located at JEM's basement food level, Polar Puffs & Cakes provides convenient access for shoppers, office workers, and families seeking premium baked goods and quick meal options. The outlet's extended operating hours and diverse menu cater to breakfast seekers, afternoon tea lovers, and evening dessert enthusiasts. With nearly a century of heritage, commitment to quality ingredients, traditional baking techniques, halal certification, and strategic mall location, Polar Puffs & Cakes at JEM represents a trusted destination for authentic heritage baking that honors Singapore's culinary traditions while serving contemporary customer needs.