Artistic Treats at KOI Dessert Bar in Chippendale
It was a chilly night in Sydney when we decided to have desserts at a nearby spot after a filling Vietnamese meal. My cousin-in-law suggested going to KOI, which she said was popular among locals and dessert lovers. And so, we went there.
Location | Where to find KOI
You can find KOI Dessert Bar along Central Park Avenue. It's close to Woo Wol Korean restaurant, Iglu Central Park Student Accommodation, and Four Points by Sheraton. It is within that area.
Address
46 Kensington St, Chippendale New South Wales
First Impressions & The Experience
Just to give a little background, KOI Dessert Bar and Dining is a business founded by the Poernomo brothers Arnold and Reynold, with the latter being a former contestant of Masterchef Australia. I had not heard about them (since I came as a tourist), but my cousins-in-law mentioned he’s big over there, so naturally, I had high expectations with the taste. Anyhow, for a moment I thought the owners were part Filipino because of the coconut and kalamansi ingredients in some of the desserts (both are native to the Philippines)- but they are Indonesian.
What’s Available at KOI Dessert Bar?
To see their complete dessert offering, it is best to visit their website, but here’s what was available when we arrived (this was during nighttime).
What We Got & Top Picks
As you can see, everything looked delectable, and that's why it took us a while to pick, but we eventually agreed to share four desserts, which was a good idea. The cakes are flavorful- they can satisfy your palate quickly.
Here’s what we ordered: Like a Boss, Green Tea Rose, Passion Colada, and Coconut Kalamansi.
Now, for the taste test. The Like a Boss mousse cake was delicious- it was a bit sweet and citrusy. I think most people would like this one. The presentation looks great, too; I love the classiness and simplicity (this is the one that looks like a cube). Not to mention, this tasted good with my Long Black coffee.
Green Tea Rose (see photo below) was mild and ideal for those who want something lighter. I only had two bites, and the texture reminded me of Cathedral Window gelatin.
Passion Colada was the sweetest and most colorful among the four. It was so pretty that we tried it last, lol. It's got a summery flavor. If you like mango-flavored or fruity treats, this is for you.
Coconut Kalamansi was okay for me. I wanted to like this, but as someone accustomed to using kalamansi as a condiment to a salty dish and an ingredient to a viand (or for fresh juices as a natural remedy for colds), I felt odd knowing it was in the dessert. That’s just me, though. I’m sure this variant would have its fans.
My top two picks were the Like A Boss and Passion Colada cakes.
Others
Service water is available;
You can also book a degustation experience- this is done in a separate area;
The place is semi-formal;
They have good customer service- staff members are smiley, friendly, and professional.
Would I go back?
It’s a chill place to enjoy time with family and friends, but I think it’s one of those spots that you only visit once or during special occasions like meeting up with a long-lost friend, celebrating an anniversary, or going on a first date.
That’s pretty much it! Thanks for reading, and I hope you stick around ♡
