Leeu SG – Iconic Merlion & Esplanade-Shaped Popsicles Make Waves at Esplanade Mall

Not gonna lie; I was pretty skeptical when I first heard about Leeu SG’s concept – an artisanal ice cream parlour specialising in ice pops that resembled Singapore’s famed tourist attractions, the Merlion and Esplanade structures. Cynicism aside, Leeu’s intriguing back story – a husband wife team that named their F&B venture after the African word for “lion”, having spotted one on their trip – made for an interesting visit.

For starters, Leeu’s ice cream and soda floats are pretty low on the sugar scale, compared to other dessert joints in town – possibly to be in line with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s recent call for less sugar in our daily consumption. This means healthier, robust flavours for patrons!

The Icy Merlion $4.80, with its strawberry and vanilla flavours, reminded me of a delicious, frozen cheesecake as soon as I bit into it. Definitely not the gimmicky concoction I was initially expecting! So patriotic is this creation, that it has supposedly received the endorsement of the Singapore Tourism Board.

Singapore’s iconic durian shaped building, the Esplanade $11.80, has also made its way to Leeu’s menu, in the form of a durian-shaped ice cream moulded in its image. This was definitely my favourite of the night, with its au natural durian flavour that coated my tastebuds with every bite, but did not overwhelm with the infamously strong scent of the fruit!

Taiyaki, a classic Japanese dessert, is also freshly made in both plain and charcoal flavours.

With tropic weather all year round, it’s no surprise Leeu has also concocted some refreshing soda floats,complete with a cheery unicorn float for the benefit of Instagram pictures. The Old Timer – Pandan Milk topped with Beancurd Float – is a must-try if you’re craving a mix of old school flavours. The Red Dot – Berry Peach Soda with Ice Cream Float – is also a worthy thirst quencher.

The Red Dot $6.80

The Old Timer $6.80

As part of their opening promotion, Leeu’s selected desserts are going for a discount – the Icy Merlion at $3.80 (UP $4.80), and the Esplanade at $8.80 (UP $11.80). Unicorn floats are also going for $1 with every drink purchased!