If the National Library building’s marble walls could talk, they’d whisper the countless tales (one of them mine) that had been born, shared, and cherished within its grand architecture. Nestled near its entrance, in a breezy open-air area, you’d find a critical part of these stories – the ever-inviting Hanis Cafe & Bakery. It’s been more than a café, it’s been an integral part of our routines, a meeting spot for us long before smartphones nudged their way into our pockets. It’s the rendezvous point marked by the phrase, “Okay later meet at Hanis at 2pm ah”.
But as we step into the next month, we’ll bid adieu to this emblematic spot that has woven itself into the very fabric of our lives.
A Haven of Memories: The Hanis Cafe & Bakery at National Library’s Swansong After 18 Glorious Years
With a Facebook post that sent shockwaves rippling through its loyal patron base, the homegrown culinary chain announced that the last day of operations for the outlet will be on 30 June 2023.
Opened in 2006, it was the first feather in Han’s cap to embrace halal offerings, explaining the moniker “Hanis” rather than the familiar “Han’s” we see in almost every shopping mall. Today, the Hanis brand stands proudly at two other locations—the bustling Eastpoint Mall and the vibrant Paya Lebar Quarter.
The decision to shutter the Hanis Cafe & Bakery at National Library was not accompanied by an explanation, leaving us to ponder the reason behind this decision.
An Al Fresco Delight: The Unique Appeal of Hanis Cafe & Bakery at National Library
Much of the charm of the Hanis Cafe & Bakery at National Library lies in its predominantly outdoor setup. It evolved into a sought-after hangout and study spot for those craving a break from the library’s silence.
Not to mention, it offered a menu mirroring the delectable array of western food and pastries that Han’s cafes are renowned for.
The Homegrown Gem: The Local Roots of Han’s Café
Despite its sophisticated name and overseas aura, Han’s is a genuine homegrown culinary sensation. The impending closure of the Hanis Cafe & Bakery at National Library leaves the brand with 19 active outlets across the Lion City.
This local powerhouse was the brainchild of Mr Han Choon Fook. Leaving his civil servant role behind in 1978, he embarked on a journey with his siblings to set up a small bakery on Upper Thomson Road. The first Han’s cafe, which opened its doors at The Arcade in 1980, offered everything from tantalizing pastries and Hainanese delicacies like pork chops and chicken rice, to pasta dishes and homemade soups.
This humble beginning blossomed into the expansive brand we know today, and the closure of Hanis Cafe & Bakery at National Library marks another page turned in the rich tapestry of this homegrown brand’s history.
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