I’d blogged about Dona Manis Cake Shop some time back when I used Pickupp service to deliver a box of banana pies to my doorstep. The shop location was too out of the way from where I live. That was my first time trying their banana pies, and I really fell in love with them – they were the best banana pies I’d ever had.
This time round, hubby and I were at Katong Shopping Centre for lunch. We decided to grab banana pies from both Auntie Peng and Dona Manis Cake Shop. I was curious how the banana pies from Dona Manis would fare against the ones from the OG creator herself.
The Frosty Service at Dona Manis Cake Shop
The service at Dona Manis felt a bit distant. The lady serving us? Zero warmth. No smile, no thank you after payment. Just robotic transactions.
Not exactly the welcoming atmosphere you’d expect.
What We Got at Dona Manis Cake Shop
Banana Pie ($3.50 per slice)
Here’s where things get interesting. Dona Manis Cake Shop offers a sweet deal – three pre-packed slices for just $10. Smart pricing strategy.
Appearance-wise, their banana pie looks nearly identical to Auntie Peng’s version. Slightly more caramelised on top, giving it that extra golden appeal.
The verdict on taste? Surprisingly similar flavour profile. The signature crunch from chopped almonds and coconut delivers as expected. But here’s the kicker – this pie packs way more moisture.
More moisture means soggier pastry base. You lose that satisfying texture contrast. However, Dona Manis Cake Shop compensates with chunkier banana pieces and noticeably riper fruit. Result? Sweeter, more robust banana flavour.
Egg Tarts (2 for $5)
Couldn’t resist trying their egg tarts. Balanced sweetness, but with minimal egg aroma. The custard filling strikes a nice middle ground – not wobbly, not dense, slightly creamy.
Decent egg tarts, though not groundbreaking. Good supporting act to the main banana pie attraction.
The Final Verdict: Why Choose Sides?
After sampling both Dona Manis Cake Shop and Auntie Peng, declaring a winner feels impossible. Each brings distinct strengths to the table.
Auntie Peng nails the pastry crust texture. Dona Manis Cake Shop delivers superior banana filling richness. Different approaches, both successful in their own right.
My Recommendation? Go Greedy
Buy from both shops. Prices sit close enough that splurging won’t break the bank. Can’t finish everything today? Banana pies keep beautifully in the fridge overnight.
They taste fantastic chilled, or pop them in the oven for that fresh-baked warmth. Dona Manis Cake Shop might lack the service charm, but their banana pies definitely earn their reputation.