Les financiers henri charpentier biography

Japanese dessert salon Henri Charpentier opened its first overseas outlet in Singapore last Thursday, but it may take up to two months for operations to be "perfect".

The French-inspired patisserie's president Goki Arita reveals that the 80-seat restaurant in Dempsey requires about another seven staff, especially for their table-side dessert performances.

Mr Arita, who was in Singapore for the opening, says: "Our staff from Japan are helping out this month but they will have to go back soon.

It is so hard to get new staff here."

So, to cope with the lack of manpower, the alfresco dining area which seats 30, will be used as a waiting space for the time being.

The brand's chef patissier, Takahiro Komai, 41, was also in town for the launch of the restaurant.

But it will be executive chef Tomohiko Shimada, 36, who will helm the kitchen in Singapore.

Despite the manpower woes, the 4,400 sq ft chic dessert salon still rolls out picture-perfect sweet treats in a plush setting.

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