Restaurant Review
PaperBakes represents a refreshing shift in Singapore’s fast-casual dining landscape, positioning itself as a health-conscious alternative to traditional fast food. The concept revolves around parchment-baked meals that prioritize nutrition without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
Overall Experience
The restaurant successfully bridges the gap between quick-service dining and wholesome eating. With outlets strategically located in business districts like Asia Square Food Garden and Raffles City, plus their Plaza Singapura location, PaperBakes caters primarily to working professionals seeking nutritious lunch options. The ordering process is streamlined through digital kiosks and QR code table ordering, making it accessible for time-conscious diners.
The food quality stands out in the fast-casual category. The parchment-baking technique delivers consistently tender, flavorful proteins that rival sit-down restaurants while maintaining the speed of fast food service. Wait times average around five minutes, which is reasonable for freshly prepared meals.
Strengths
- Innovative cooking method that retains moisture and flavor
- Highly customizable menu suitable for various dietary preferences
- Transparent display of ingredients at the service counter
- Convenient locations for office workers
- Lighter sweetening in beverages and desserts
- Boneless protein options for easier eating
Areas for Consideration
- Limited to chicken, fish, and vegetarian proteins (no beef or pork)
- Disposable containers may not appeal to environmentally conscious diners
- Pricing slightly higher than hawker fare but comparable to other fast-casual concepts
Ambience & Atmosphere
Interior Design
The Plaza Singapura outlet embodies a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic that feels clean and inviting. Bright lighting floods the space, creating an energetic atmosphere suitable for quick lunches or casual dining. The design philosophy emphasizes functionality over elaborate decor, with natural materials providing warmth to the otherwise modern setting.
The compact layout maximizes efficiency. Glass display panels at the service counter serve dual purposes: they showcase the fresh ingredients while maintaining food safety standards. This transparency builds trust with health-conscious customers who want to see what they’re eating.
Seating and Layout
Tables line the wall opposite the service counter, creating a straightforward flow from ordering to dining. The arrangement accommodates both solo diners grabbing a quick bite and small groups sharing a meal. The self-service model keeps things moving, preventing bottlenecks during peak lunch hours.
Dining Experience
The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, reminiscent of modern fast-casual chains but with a health-focused twist. It’s not a destination for leisurely meals or special occasions; rather, it’s designed for efficient, satisfying dining. The digital ordering system minimizes queuing time, and the quick service ensures you’re in and out within 20-30 minutes if needed.
The environment feels clean and well-maintained, important factors for diners concerned about food safety and hygiene. The lack of lingering cooking odors (thanks to the parchment-baking method) contributes to a pleasant dining environment.
The Parchment-Baking Method: Recipe & Cooking Instructions
What is Parchment Baking (En Papillote)?
Parchment baking, or “en papillote” in French culinary terms, is a cooking technique where food is sealed in parchment paper and baked. The paper creates a sealed environment that traps steam, essentially allowing the food to steam-bake in its own juices along with added seasonings and aromatics.
Why This Method Works
Moisture Retention: The sealed packet prevents moisture from escaping, keeping proteins tender and juicy without added fats or oils.
Flavor Concentration: Herbs, spices, and aromatics intensify as they’re trapped in the packet with the protein and vegetables.
Gentle Cooking: The steam environment cooks food gently and evenly, preventing the exterior from drying out before the interior is done.
Healthier Preparation: Minimal or no added fats are needed, as the food essentially poaches in its own juices.
Recipe: Parchment-Baked Chicken Thigh (PaperBakes Style)
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless chicken thigh (approximately 150-180g)
- Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons herb marinade (rosemary, thyme, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon slices, fresh herbs
Marinade Preparation:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add the boneless chicken thigh and coat thoroughly. For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours refrigerated.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables Dice vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Parchment Cut a piece of parchment paper into a large rectangle, approximately 30cm x 40cm. Place it on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Assemble the Packet
- Place vegetables in the center of the parchment paper
- Lay the marinated chicken thigh on top
- Drizzle any remaining marinade over the chicken
- Add lemon slices and fresh herbs if using
Step 5: Seal the Packet
- Bring the long edges of parchment together above the food
- Fold the edges down in small pleats to create a seal
- Twist or fold the ends tightly to prevent steam from escaping
- The packet should be sealed but with some air space inside for steam circulation
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F)
- Place the sealed packet on a baking tray
- Bake for 20-25 minutes for chicken thigh
- The packet will puff up as steam builds inside
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes
- Carefully open the packet (beware of hot steam)
- Transfer to a plate and serve with desired base (rice, quinoa, or salad)
Cooking Tips
- Don’t overfill the packet; leave room for steam circulation
- Ensure the seal is tight to trap all the steam
- Cooking times vary based on protein thickness; chicken should reach 75°C internal temperature
- The parchment may brown slightly, which is normal
- For crispier skin (if using skin-on chicken), briefly broil after opening the packet
In-Depth Meal & Dish Analysis
Craft Meal Bento with Boneless Chicken Thigh ($11.80)
Component Breakdown:
Parchment-Baked Boneless Chicken Thigh The star of this dish demonstrates the effectiveness of the parchment-baking technique. The chicken exhibits remarkable tenderness, with flesh that separates easily, indicating it was cooked to the ideal temperature without becoming dry. The herb marinade provides subtle aromatic notes without overwhelming the natural chicken flavor.
The texture is reminiscent of traditional salt-baked chicken, a Cantonese preparation known for producing exceptionally juicy meat. This comparison suggests the parchment created an effective sealed environment that preserved the chicken’s natural moisture while allowing the herbs to infuse throughout.
The absence of bones makes this particularly convenient for quick office lunches, eliminating the messiness often associated with bone-in poultry. From a nutritional standpoint, chicken thigh offers more flavor and moisture than breast meat while still providing quality protein with a reasonable fat content.
Herb Roasted Potato Cubes The potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and a heartier texture to balance the tender chicken. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while creating textural contrast through slightly crispy exteriors. These serve as a more wholesome alternative to french fries while still offering satisfying starchiness.
Char-Baked Vegetables The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and visual appeal to the bento. The char-baking method caramelizes natural sugars, enhancing flavor without added sauces or fats. This component reinforces the health-conscious positioning while ensuring the meal isn’t overly heavy.
Jasmine Rice A classic Asian base that provides additional carbohydrates and helps create a complete, filling meal. Jasmine rice’s subtle fragrance complements rather than competes with the herb-marinated chicken.
Nutritional Profile: This meal likely delivers approximately 500-600 calories with a balanced macronutrient distribution of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The cooking method minimizes added oils, making this significantly lighter than fried alternatives.
Gourmet Salad with Boneless Chicken Thigh ($12.80)
Component Analysis:
Fresh Salad Base The salad offers a lower-carbohydrate alternative to the bento, positioning itself for diners following specific dietary protocols or seeking lighter options. Fresh greens provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber with minimal calories.
Boneless Chicken Thigh Prepared identically to the bento version, maintaining the same tender, herb-infused quality. The protein content makes this salad substantial enough to serve as a complete meal rather than just a side dish.
Nutritional Advantages: This option significantly reduces carbohydrate intake compared to the bento while maintaining protein levels. It’s suitable for low-carb, keto-friendly, or lighter eating patterns. The estimated calorie count likely falls between 300-400 calories, making it appropriate for calorie-conscious diners.
Beverages & Desserts
Soy Bean Drink ($3) Notably less sweet than typical hawker center versions, catering to customers reducing sugar intake. Soy provides plant-based protein and creates a more balanced beverage option than sugary soft drinks.
Matcha Soy Pudding ($3.50) The matcha introduces antioxidants and earthy flavors while maintaining moderate sweetness. This dessert feels like a treat without the guilt associated with heavily sweetened options. The soy base adds protein, making it more substantial than sugar-laden alternatives.
Value Assessment
Craft Meal Bento at $11.80: This pricing positions PaperBakes in the mid-range of Singapore’s lunch options. While more expensive than hawker food ($4-7) or basic food court meals ($6-8), it’s comparable to other health-focused fast-casual concepts and significantly cheaper than sit-down restaurants ($15-25).
Considering the quality of ingredients, customization options, and nutritional profile, the value proposition is reasonable for health-conscious office workers. The convenience factor and time savings add intangible value for busy professionals.
Gourmet Salad at $12.80: The $1 premium over the bento reflects the fresh salad ingredients. For diners specifically seeking lower-carb options, this price is competitive with specialized health food establishments.
Comparative Analysis
Versus Traditional Fast Food: PaperBakes offers superior nutritional value compared to burger chains or fried chicken outlets. While traditional fast food might cost $8-10, the added health benefits and better ingredient quality justify the slight premium.
Versus Food Court: More expensive than average food court meals but offers greater customization, fresher ingredients, and healthier preparation methods. The trade-off is reasonable for diners prioritizing nutrition.
Versus Health-Focused Restaurants: Competitively priced against establishments like SaladStop, Grain Traders, or other build-your-own bowl concepts, with the unique selling point of the parchment-baking method.
Delivery Options & Ordering Platforms
Based on the review, PaperBakes operates as a dine-in and takeaway establishment with digital ordering capabilities. Here’s what we know and what you should verify:
Confirmed Ordering Methods
In-Store Digital Ordering:
- Digital kiosks at the restaurant
- QR code scanning for table orders
- Traditional counter ordering
Takeaway Service: Food is served in disposable containers, indicating takeaway readiness. The parchment-baked items should travel well since they’re already sealed during cooking.
Likely Delivery Platforms
While not explicitly mentioned in the review, restaurants in Singapore’s major shopping malls and business districts typically partner with:
GrabFood: Singapore’s largest food delivery platform, highly likely given PaperBakes’ locations in high-traffic areas like Plaza Singapura, Raffles City, and Asia Square.
Foodpanda: Another major platform that covers central Singapore locations extensively.
Deliveroo: Common in CBD areas and shopping districts.
Delivery Considerations
Food Quality During Transit: The parchment-baked method actually works well for delivery since the sealed packets retain heat and moisture during transport. This is an advantage over many fast-food items that become soggy or dry during delivery.
Packaging: The review mentions disposable containers, which are delivery-friendly. The sealed nature of parchment-baked items helps maintain food quality better than open containers.
How to Order
For Delivery:
- Search “PaperBakes” on GrabFood, Foodpanda, or Deliveroo apps
- Select your nearest location (Plaza Singapura, Raffles City, or Asia Square)
- Customize your meal through the app interface
- Typical delivery time: 30-45 minutes depending on location
For Takeaway:
- Order through digital kiosks in-store
- Use the QR code ordering system
- Call ahead if the restaurant offers phone orders
- Pick up within the 5-minute preparation window mentioned in the review
Recommendation
To confirm current delivery availability and partnerships, I recommend:
- Checking the PaperBakes website or social media pages
- Searching directly on food delivery apps
- Calling the specific outlet you want to order from
Given their business model targeting busy office workers, delivery partnerships are highly probable and would align with their convenience-focused positioning.
Final Verdict
PaperBakes earns its 3/5 rating by delivering exactly what it promises: wholesome, customizable, guilt-free meals prepared using a healthier cooking method. It’s not trying to be fine dining or revolutionary cuisine; instead, it occupies a valuable niche for health-conscious diners seeking convenient, nutritious options in Singapore’s competitive food landscape.
Best For:
- Office workers seeking healthy lunch options
- Fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters
- Anyone reducing fried food consumption
- Diners with dietary restrictions who appreciate customization
- Quick, nutritious meals without the fast-food guilt
Worth Visiting If: You value nutrition and convenience equally, appreciate being able to see and choose your ingredients, or want flavorful food prepared with minimal added fats. The parchment-baking technique genuinely delivers on its promise of tender, juicy proteins without the grease.
Overall Rating: 3/5 TOPs – A solid, reliable choice that does what it sets out to do well, making wholesome eating accessible and convenient in Singapore’s fast-paced environment.