Balmoral Bakery is no stranger to Singaporeans who grew up in and around Clementi, but few are aware that its lead baker and second-generation owner, Mr Lim Ming Noong, was once an arts student. “I graduated from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts and planned to go into advertising after leaving school. But then my paternal uncle asked me to join the family business,” recounted the 78-year-old.
In an interview with CNA Lifestyle, he spoke fondly about his artistic inclinations as he shared his “portfolio” with us – a collection of photographs showcasing the intricate birthday cakes he has created over the years. “We get requests to draw all sorts of cartoon characters. I’ve never seen some of them before, but as long as you have a reference, I can make it happen.
” When Mr Lim first stepped into the kitchen in his twenties, though, he knew nothing about baking. Nevertheless, he chose to work with his hands as he was discouraged by the few career prospects his education offered him at the time. “This was my first job, and I’ve stuck it out all the way till this day.
I’ve gotten so used to it that I’m like a machine now,” he joked. For over half a century, Mr. Lim's day has begun at the crack of dawn.
Rising at 4.30am, he starts preparations at 6.15am and opens the doors of Balmoral Bakery at 9am.
The rest of the morning whizzes by as pastries fly off the shelves and Mr Lim and his crew replenish them. Until recently, Mr Lim spends his afternoons hunched over.
