[Available only at Icon Village til 3rd Dec] After a couple of spoonfuls and then some, I finally understood why those vocal about their love for the this seasonal softserve from Matchaya have been unwavering in declaring this as ‘underrated’. The distinguishable smoky aftertaste of the Genmaicha Parfait takes its time in lingering on the palette. It’s one flavour that will put off the people who view desserts merely as a narrow catacomb of sweetness instead of a open plain where a plethora of flavours exist in harmony. And rightfully so.

F&B businesses have to constantly be on their toes when it comes to churning out fresh, unique, relevant and great-tasting products. Matcha, Houjicha and Goma are ascending towards ubiquity, while Genmaicha is flying under the radar. Matchaya has never been one to shy away from banging the drum for any flavour that isn’t trendy, but they’re also one to count on if you’re scouring for good quality - this is how they play their cards. The Genmaicha is unarguably all the things I’ve mentioned above.

All the seasonal flavours that have come and gone have all had their fair share of foibles. The Genmaicha is no different from this in all honesty. The espuma and kuromitsu’s combined sweetness was almost intemperate, rendering it slightly out of place. Yet, like all its antecedents, the flavour holds its own pretty darn well, and may actually surprise you - only if you’re up for trying something new. (7.8/10)