No more iced gems? Singapore’s nostalgic Biscuit King to close after over 40 years

Biscuit King will be closing on Jan 31, 2027 after over four decades in business. — Picture via Facebook/PatriciaChew

First Published: Sunday, 08 Nov 2026 7:30 PM MYT

SINGAPORE, Nov 8 — Love munching on iced gem biscuits or other old-school snacks during your childhood? 

For those looking to relive the nostalgia, traditional tidbit shop Biscuit King at Upper Thomson is one place you can still find these goodies. But not for much longer. 

Biscuit King is set to close on January 31, 2027.

The store’s handwritten closure notice was shared by Patricia Chew in Facebook group Can Eat! SG yesterday.

“We regret to inform you that Biscuit King will be ceasing operations in a few months’ time,” it wrote. 

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your loyalty, support and wonderful memories over the years. It has been a true privilege serving you.” 

A handwritten notice at Biscuit King announces that the Singapore snack shop will cease operations on January 31, 2027. — Picture via Facebook/PatriciaChew

According to Biscuit King’s owner Benny Ong, the closure was due to a few main factors.

“Firstly, the cost of biscuits has increased over the years,” he told The Straits Times, adding that the latest hike only happened recently. 

On top of that, Benny’s supplier had also projected an increase of more than 30 per cent in the cost of plastic bags and containers this year. 

The shop could also face higher rental costs, as its current landlord is selling the property. 

There are no plans to relocate or move the business online, Benny said.

News of Biscuit King’s impending closure drew attention from netizens.

One recalled visiting the store during their school days, writing: “We would drop by to buy stuff from that shop and I remember the owner used to wear a white singlet, long brown pants and the wife a traditional cheongsam top.” 

“Sad. I love this place. Loved the variety and nostalgic biscuits. Brings back childhood memories. I’ve got to stock up,” said another. 

Biscuit King started out in 1982 as a provision shop named Chua Seng Minimart. 

It was subsequently registered under its current name in 2008. 

The store sells old-school snacks such as iced gem biscuits, butterfly crackers and lemon puffs, among others. 

Traditional sweets, toys and cards are also available here, including chocolate “goggles”, Old Maid playing cards and pick-up sticks. 

A check on the snack shop’s website on Sunday showed that online orders are temporarily closed due to a shortage of manpower.

AsiaOne has reached out to Biscuit King for more information.