Singapore is a vibrant city with a thriving cafe scene. From cozy hideaways to trendy spots, there’s a cafe for every taste and occasion. Here are 18 unmissable cafes to add to your Singapore itinerary:
1. Atlas Coffeehouse (for Coffee Explorers)
Nestled within the plush Parkview Square, Atlas Coffeehouse is a sanctuary for coffee connoisseurs. Indulge in their extensive menu featuring single-origin beans, crafted by skilled baristas. The cozy ambiance and knowledgeable staff make it an ideal spot for those seeking a refined coffee experience.
2. Dutch Colony Coffee Co. (for Coastal Vibes)
With two idyllic locations by the waterfront, Dutch Colony Coffee Co. offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Sip on aromatic brews while basking in the stunning views of the Singapore River or Marina Bay. Their all-day breakfast menu and delectable pastries complement the laid-back ambiance perfectly.
3. Forty Hands (for Coffee and Culture)
Occupying a historic shophouse along Haji Lane, Forty Hands seamlessly blends coffee artistry with cultural immersion. The passionate team showcases beans from across the globe, roasted and brewed with precision. Engage in engaging workshops or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere while savoring your cuppa.
4. Symmetry (for Artisanal Coffee)
Symmetry is a coffee haven for the discerning palate. Their meticulous approach to sourcing, roasting, and brewing ensures an exceptional coffee experience. The minimalist space and knowledgeable baristas create an intimate setting where you can fully appreciate the nuances of each cup.
5. Chye Seng Huat Hardware (for Nostalgic Charm)
Step into Chye Seng Huat Hardware and be transported back to a bygone era. The cafe’s vibrant facade and eclectic interior evoke a sense of nostalgia. Enjoy a cup of coffee surrounded by vintage hardware and tools, making it a unique and memorable experience.
6. Nylon Coffee Roasters (for a Lively Atmosphere)
Nylon Coffee Roasters is the place to be if you crave a vibrant and social coffee experience. Their spacious cafe in Tanjong Pagar is buzzing with energy, perfect for catching up with friends or working on your next project while enjoying their expertly crafted brews.
7. Strangers’ Reunion (for Coffee and Design)
Hidden away in a quaint corner of Jalan Besar, Strangers’ Reunion combines the charm of a cafe with the aesthetics of a design studio. The industrial-chic space is adorned with unique artwork, creating a stimulating environment where coffee enthusiasts and creatives alike can gather.
8. Yahava KoffeeWorks (for Coffee on the Go)
Yahava KoffeeWorks offers a convenient coffee fix for those on the move. With multiple outlets across Singapore, you’re never far from a cup of their premium-quality coffee. Whether it’s a quick espresso or a refreshing cold brew, Yahava has you covered.
9. The Coffee Academics (for Coffee Knowledge)
The Coffee Academics is a world-renowned coffee chain that has made its mark in Singapore. Their cafes are known for their comprehensive coffee menu, featuring beans from various origins and expertly prepared using different brewing methods. They also host regular workshops and tasting events, making them a great choice for those who want to expand their coffee knowledge.
10. Common Man Coffee Roasters (for a Tranquil Oasis)
Common Man Coffee Roasters has created a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling Central Business District. Their elegant cafes offer a respite from the urban grind, where you can savor artisanal coffee in a serene and sophisticated setting.
11. Tiong Bahru Bakery (for Pastries and Coffee)
Tiong Bahru Bakery is an institution in Singapore, renowned for its exceptional pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Their cozy cafes are the perfect spot to indulge in a decadent treat while enjoying a cup of their smooth and aromatic coffee.
12. Habitat Coffee (for Sustainable Coffee)
Habitat Coffee is committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing, ensuring that their coffee is not only delicious but also responsible. Their menu features a rotating selection of beans from small-batch roasters, ensuring freshness and variety.
13. The Plain (for a Minimalist Experience)
The Plain is an oasis of minimalism, offering a serene retreat from the sensory overload of city life. Their stark white interior and sparse decor create a calming ambiance, perfect for savoring their carefully curated coffee and simple but delicious pastries.
14. Alchemist (for Coffee and Cocktails)
Alchemist is a unique fusion of a coffeehouse and a cocktail bar. By day, they serve specialty coffee and artisanal pastries, while by night, they transform into a vibrant cocktail lounge. Experience the best of both worlds under one roof.
15. Papa Palheta (for a Wide Selection)
Papa Palheta is a coffee lover’s paradise, boasting one of the widest selections of coffee beans in Singapore. Their menu features over 100 different beans, sourced from around the world and roasted on-site. Experiment with different origins and flavors to find your perfect cup.
16. Liberty Coffee (for a Rustic Escape)
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at Liberty Coffee. Their rustic cafe in Joo Chiat offers a cozy and intimate ambiance, perfect for sipping coffee and savoring their homemade pastries.
17. The Daily Grind (for a Neighborhood Feel)
The Daily Grind embodies the spirit of a friendly neighborhood cafe. Their cozy space and welcoming staff create a laid-back and inviting atmosphere, where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee while connecting with locals.
18. Creamier (for Gelato and Coffee)
Creamier is not just a cafe but a culinary adventure. They combine the passion for coffee with the art of Italian gelato. Indulge in their exquisite gelato flavors, complemented by a cup of their expertly brewed coffee.
- Consider your caffeine preference: Choose a cafe that specializes in your preferred brewing methods (e.g., espresso-based, cold brew, etc.).
- Explore the menu: Check out the cafe’s coffee menu online or in person to see if they offer a variety of beans and roasting profiles that suit your taste.
- Look for skilled baristas: Experienced baristas can make a world of difference in the quality of your coffee. Look for cafes that emphasize barista training and technique.
- Embrace the ambiance: Choose a cafe that offers an ambiance that complements your mood and experience. Whether you prefer a cozy hideaway or a lively social spot, there’s a cafe out there for you.
- Don’t forget the food: Many cafes also offer pastries, sandwiches, and other food items to accompany your coffee. Consider cafes that serve tantalizing treats to enhance your coffee break.
Singapore’s cafe scene caters to every palate and preference. From sophisticated coffeehouses to laid-back neighborhood spots, there’s a cafe to suit every mood and occasion. Explore these 18 must-visit cafes and embark on a caffeinated journey that will leave you captivated.
| Brewing Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Espresso | Coffee is forced through finely-ground coffee beans with pressurized hot water, resulting in a concentrated coffee with a rich crema. |
| Cold Brew | Coffee grounds are steeped in cold water for an extended period, resulting in a smooth, less acidic coffee with a lower caffeine content. |
| Pour Over | Hot water is poured over finely-ground coffee beans in a filter basket, allowing the water to slowly extract the coffee flavors. |
| Chemex | A specific type of pour-over coffee maker that uses a cone-shaped filter, producing a clean and balanced coffee with a medium body. |
| French Press | Coarsely-ground coffee beans are steeped in hot water in a carafe, then the grounds are pressed down with a filter to separate them from the coffee. |
According to a study by Euromonitor International, Singapore is ranked as the eighth largest coffee consumer in the world, with an average consumption of 3.4 kilograms of coffee per person per year.
| Year | Coffee Consumption (kilograms per person per year) |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 3.4 |
| 2022 (estimated) | 3.6 |
| 2023 (projected) | 3.8 |
| Country | Coffee Exports to Singapore (metric tons) |
|---|---|
| Vietnam | 25,000 |
| Brazil | 10,000 |
| Indonesia | 5,000 |
| Colombia | 4,000 |
| Ethiopia | 2,000 |
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Coffee Quality | 70% |
| Ambiance | 15% |
| Price | 10% |
| Convenience | 5% |
