Ice Lab Café Bugis Review 2025: Korean Desserts in Singapore

Ice Lab Cafe is a Korean dessert haven specializing in the ever-popular Bingsu (Korean shaved ice), along with other tempting treats like churros and Korean toasts.
I remember when it was originally opened by a Korean comedian, and the cafe quickly gained a following for its unique dessert creations and cozy atmosphere.
Finding My Way to Bugis
Ice Lab has found a new home at 164 Rochor Rd, Singapore 188439, right in the vibrant Bugis area. This location offers a convenient spot for both locals and tourists looking to satisfy their sweet cravings after exploring the nearby Bugis Street or shopping malls.
Walking into Ice Lab (Bugis), I always feel a sense of welcome. The ambiance is just right – recent visits have shown me a cozy and modern decor, making it the perfect place to chill out and enjoy a refreshing dessert, especially in Singapore’s warm climate.
What’s on the Menu?
Ice Lab’s menu continues to be a delightful exploration of Korean sweet treats.
Bingsu Delights: The star of the show is undoubtedly the Bingsu, and Ice Lab offers a fantastic range of flavors. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
- Mango Bingsu: A refreshing classic, widely praised for its generous portions of fresh, juicy mangoes piled high on fluffy milky ice.
- Injeolmi Bingsu: A must-try for those who enjoy traditional Korean flavors, featuring roasted soybean powder, chewy mochi pieces, and often almond flakes for added texture.
- Lychee Rose Bingsu: A unique blend that has garnered praise for its refreshing and slightly floral taste – a different but delightful option.
- Chocolate Bingsu: A popular choice noted for its rich flavor, fluffy shaved ice, and generous toppings.
- Traffic Light Set: If you’re like me and can’t decide on just one flavor, this set offers a trio of mini Bingsu varieties, perfect for sampling or sharing.
While classics like the Soymilk Bingsu and Yogurt Bingsu might still be available, these specific mentions come highly recommended by fellow dessert lovers.
Other Temptations: Beyond the impressive Bingsu selection, Ice Lab offers more to tempt your taste buds:
- Churros: Oh, their churros are exactly how I love them – crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft and chewy inside. Served with various dips, they’re a perfect warm counterpoint to the icy Bingsu.
- Korean Toasts: These fluffy, eggy toasts are a comforting option, reminiscent of a good French toast. They make for a satisfying bite any time of day.
- Beverages: They also offer a selection of drinks, including a comforting hot chocolate latte, which I find perfect for pairing with a cold Bingsu on cooler days inside the cafe.
The diverse menu truly ensures there’s something for every dessert lover.
Pricing and Value:
While prices may have adjusted over the years, Ice Lab generally falls within a comparable range to other Bingsu cafes in Singapore. However, one recent review pointed out that size options and prices weren’t always clearly displayed, so it might be wise to inquire with the staff when ordering.
While some might find the prices slightly higher, the generous portion sizes make the Bingsu ideal for sharing and offer good value.
Who Would Love Ice Lab (Bugis)?
Ice Lab (Bugis) is perfect for anyone craving authentic Korean Bingsu, those looking for a cool and refreshing treat in a comfortable setting, and groups of friends or families wanting to share a delicious dessert. It’s also a great spot for those wanting to try other popular Korean street-style desserts like churros and toasts.
See Also: Savor Sapporo’s Iconic Miso-Based Butter Corn Ramen
Why Visit Ice Lab (Bugis) in 2025?
- A Taste of Korea: Experience authentic and delicious Korean desserts right in the heart of Singapore.
- Perfect for Sharing: Bingsu is the ultimate communal dessert, ideal for enjoying with friends or family.
- Refreshing Treat: Escape the Singapore heat with a bowl of finely shaved, flavorful ice.
- Convenient Location: Situated in the bustling Bugis area, it’s easily accessible by public transport.
- Cozy Ambiance: Enjoy a relaxed and comfortable setting to unwind and indulge in sweet treats.
Plan Your Visit:
If you’re planning to head down, here are some practical things to keep in mind. The cafe can get quite popular, especially during peak hours on evenings and weekends, so if you prefer a quieter experience, weekdays afternoons might be your best bet to avoid the longest queues. You can find their operating hours and website link below:
Location: 164 Rochor Rd, Singapore 188439 (Bugis Village area)
Opening Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:30 AM
Nearest MRT:
- Bugis (EW12/DT14) ~3 min walk
- Bras Basah (CC2) ~5 min walk
- Bencoolen (DT21) ~7 min walk
Website: http://www.icelab.sg/ (It’s always a good idea to check their website or social media for the most updated information and promotions!)
Customer Ratings & Testimonials
- TripAdvisor: 3.8/5 from 60 reviews — “One of the better Bingsus in town; the softness and fineness of the ice is spot on”.
- Google Reviews: 4.0/5 from 59 reviews — “The shaved ice was incredibly fluffy and melted in my mouth; toppings were generous”.
- Burpple: Notes on inventive flavors like Hojicha ($19++) and praise for portion sizes that make sharing easy.
- Yelp: Highlights the café’s minimalist white interior and “eye‑candy” staff, underlining its Instagram‑ready appeal.
You Might Like: Ultimate Seoul Layover Guide
FAQs
What are the most popular Bingsu flavors at Ice Lab?
Popular choices often include Mango Bingsu, Injeolmi Bingsu, Lychee Rose Bingsu, Chocolate Bingsu, and the Traffic Light Set sampler.
How can I get to Ice Lab via public transport?
Ice Lab is a very short walk from the Bugis MRT Station (EW12/DT14). It’s also easily accessible via numerous bus routes with stops along Victoria Street and nearby roads.
Does Ice Lab offer any unique menu items?
Yes, the cafe occasionally introduces special flavors and limited-time offerings. It’s advisable to check their social media for the latest updates.
Are there other Ice Lab outlets in Singapore?
Yes, besides the Bugis location, Ice Lab also has an outlet at Jewel Changi Airport, convenient for travelers and airport visitors.
My Final Thoughts
While the Orchard Shopping Centre chapter of Ice Lab Cafe might be over, its spirit and delicious desserts live on at the Bugis Village location. If you’re a fan of Korean Bingsu, crave some crispy churros, or want to try a comforting Korean toast, Ice Lab (Bugis) remains a sweet escape worth checking out in 2025. So gather your friends, prepare your sweet tooth, and head down to Bugis for a delightful Korean dessert experience!