LIFESTYLE

 Confessions of an Ice Cream "Addict"

I am an incurable ice cream ‘addict’, who would love to survive on ice cream alone if that was ever possible. I still remember the 50’s when I was schooling in ACS, it was a real luxury indulging in an ice cream treat in popular establishments like Mont D’or along Orchard Road, Wonderland in Katong and the Cold Storage Creameries, where the New York Skyscraper and Knickerbocker were clearly the favourites! Though it would take us weeks to save enough pocket money before being able to afford each visit, the effort and sacrifices made were well worth it!

My predilection for ice cream has remained unchanged since half a century ago. However, ice cream parlours have now evolved into sophisticated outlets, as I recently discovered at the new Haagen-Dazs café at The Esplanade in the heart of Singapore’s cultural hub.

The experience was simply delightful and from the moment I stepped in, it was “sweet surrender” for me! The staff was friendly and attentive; the elegant ambience was a perfect setting to impress the client I was entertaining; and the soothing music helped us feel relaxed and comfortable. There is even a large plasma screen to keep others less occupied entertained.

Besides the fabulous Haagen-Dazs ice cream, which was the very reason for our presence at the café, you have the choice of chilling out over a bottle of premium beer or a glass of fine wine!  There’s also freshly brewed ‘illy’ Italian coffee, made from the finest 100% Arabica beans, skillfully roasted and meticulously air-cooled.

Haagen-Dazs ice cream has come a long way since it originated in New York in the 1920s. Then, only three flavours, chocolate, vanilla and coffee, were available.  Today, driven by its mission to produce the finest ice cream using only premium and the purest ingredients, the company offers an astounding assortment of flavours, toppings and desserts in 54 countries around the world, stretching from Paris to Tokyo to Rio de Janeiro.

In Singapore, Haagen-Dazs ice cream is available in cafes scattered over the island. When I last stopped by The Hilton sidewalk café for a scope of two, I couldn’t help but notice the attractive new serving counter, which is designed exclusively for Haagen-Dazs. Known as the ‘dipping station’, the tilted angle of the ice cream tubs now makes it easier to select your favourite Haagen-Dazs flavour.

Whether you are having tea at The Esplanade, snacks at The Hilton, or just a cuppa at Holland Village, you will find Haagen-Dazs’ modern looking cafes exude an aura of sophistication. It is no wonder that the name Haagen-Dazs is synonymous with sheer indulgence and genuine taste.