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Opening its doors on the 21st of December, Rise by Classified is neatly tucked away inside Exchange Square 2, in the former location of its predecessor and parent company, Classified. Offering artisanal baked goods and liberally stocked with organic Hong Kong-based goods, Rise by Classified provides patrons with a relaxed yet vibrant environment amongst the hustle and bustle of the CBD. We dropped by to check out the newly-opened artisan bakery hub.
Image courtesy of Classified Group
Modern & understated décor
The interior is understated, with wooden, sepia hues paired with bursts of green courtesy of the pot plants generously dotted around the space. A vast selection of delicate pastries line the front counter, which are made fresh daily by their resident French baker.
Image courtesy of Shannon Dawson | Cha Siu Papers Times
Partnering with boutique Hong Kong brands like PÜRA VÏDA, Alive Food, and Nicole’s Kitchen, shelves are stocked with everything from pumpkin spiced granola to grapefruit rose Kombucha. If you close your eyes you can almost imagine you’re in a hipster café in Canggu.
Image courtesy of Shannon Dawson | Cha Siu Papers Times
Sweet & savoury indulgence
We take a seat by the window which offers an abundance of natural light and a glimpse of the harbour. We’re presented with a variety of pastries—one of which admittedly I was eyeing off as soon as we entered, the chouquettes. These little bites were like golden parcels of heaven; light, crispy and generously dusted with sugar—for the best experience, be sure to pair these with your choice of brew.
Image courtesy of Shannon Dawson | Cha Siu Papers Times
Hong Kong-born Urban Coffee Roaster provides the beans for Rise’s coffees and the oat milk lattes got two thumbs up from a self-proclaimed Aussie coffee snob.
Image courtesy of Shannon Dawson | Cha Siu Papers Times
The signature burger, with sticky grilled eggplant, caramelised onions, a hefty slice of cheddar and a side of fries was the ultimate indulgence. For a lighter option, the trio of hummus hit the spot. Three vibrant stripes of photogenic goodness; pea, carrot and beetroot infused hummus served with freshly baked bread. Taste each flavour individually or, like me, greedily swipe a bit of everything onto your bread.
Image courtesy of Shannon Dawson | Cha Siu Papers Times
We finish with a few more pastries, (because, 2021) The chocolate éclair was a sweet treat but the strawberry tart stole my heart. Sweet, glazed strawberries served on a bed of homemade custard with a buttery, crunchy biscuit base. I may not be able to travel for the time being, but devouring artisanal baked goods might just be the next best thing.
Image courtesy of Shannon Dawson | Cha Siu Papers Times
Whether you need a quick caffeine hit or a more languid sit-down meal, Classified Group’s latest bakery concept will help you Rise to the occasion.
Rise by Classified, Exchange Square Podium, Shop No. 313, 3/F, 8 Connaught Pl, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2147 3454, risebyclassified.com