Starter Lab - Menu

I only had the grilled cheese and a cup of white coffee despite having a nearly full stomach, but it was enough to warrant a four-star rating. This charming lit... read more I only had the grilled cheese and a cup of white coffee despite having a nearly full stomach, but it was enough to warrant a four-star rating. This charming little gem at the end of Havelock Road (close to the exit for Lower Delta Road) offers convenient parking at nearby multi-storey car parks. It’s a paradise for sourdough bread enthusiasts. The service was friendly as well.

Most bread is made with commercial yeast for a reason—it provides consistent, repeatable results suitable for mass production. Sourdough, on the other hand, rel... read more Most bread is made with commercial yeast for a reason—it provides consistent, repeatable results suitable for mass production. Sourdough, on the other hand, relies on wild yeast. While keeping a starter alive isn’t too difficult, mastering its use takes considerable experience. So before complaining about the prices, it’s important to understand what you’re paying for and to compare similar products. That said, I think the breads and pastries at Starter Lab are quite good. Yes, they are not the cheapest option, but they’re not overcharging either; the prices are fair. For dine-in sandwiches, they could lower the prices a bit, but the quality and flavor are there. If you’re eating in, they offer a diverse selection of sandwiches—go for one that piques your interest or ask for a suggestion. For take-home items, I personally recommend the rosemary lemon and sea salt bread; it’s delicious. The country loaf is a bit denser and chewier, and I have encountered some issues with it being a bit sticky, which usually occurs when bread hasn't cooled enough, although that wasn’t necessarily the case this time. I’ll try it again in the future. The pastries are delightful; I particularly enjoy the pain au chocolat and the drunken snail. I found the morning bun slightly dry during my one visit, but the banana bread is quite good, and the brownie is nicely balanced—not overly sweet. I’m also intrigued to try their miso baguette next time. Their coffee is good as well; I’ve tried three types and have been pleased with each. Lastly, I appreciate the service; the staff has always been friendly, welcoming, and accommodating.