Japanese patisserie Henri Charpentier has opened its first online store in Singapore, in partnership with Rakuten.

The eStore has launched with a range of French-inspired pastries and baked goods, including cookies, fruit tarts and madeleines. Fresh cakes will be offered later in the year.

Henri Charpentier executive chef, Takahiro Komai says the company has been witnessing brisk business since its restaurant on Dempsey Hill opened last year.

“[We] wanted to explore new ways to expand our business, short of having to open a second physical shop,” he said.

“With this new online shop, we can achieve two things: first, we can make it more convenient for customers who may be too busy to come down physically to our shop. Second, we can reach out to many new customers through Rakuten, which already has a strong base of fans who like products from Japan.”

For the store’s launch, shipping will be free until September 30.

Customers who spend more than $200 online will receive a 50 per cent discount voucher for use dining at Henri Charpentier’s restaurant at Dempsey Hill.