Best Coffee Shops to Explore in Singapore

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Singapore’s coffee culture has grown into a vibrant scene, with both traditional kopi (traditional coffee) stalls and modern specialty cafés dotting the island. Coffee plays an essential role in the everyday life of Singaporeans, serving as both a social activity and a daily ritual. Whether it’s a quick morning brew or a leisurely weekend hangout, coffee is at the heart of many experiences.

This article will explore some of the best coffee shops in Singapore, highlighting must-visit spots, hidden gems, and specialty cafés that cater to every kind of coffee lover.

Discovering Singapore’s Coffee Culture

What defines Singapore’s café scene?

Singapore’s café scene is defined by its unique fusion of local traditions and global coffee trends. On one hand, you have the rich heritage of local kopi stalls, where robust coffee served with condensed milk is a staple of everyday life. On the other hand, the influence of third-wave coffee culture has introduced artisanal brewing methods, ethical sourcing, and an emphasis on high-quality, single-origin beans. This blend of old and new reflects Singapore’s multiculturalism and cosmopolitan vibe.

In addition to the variety of coffee, Singapore’s cafés also serve as important social spaces. Cafés are not just places to grab a quick drink; they are vibrant hubs where locals, expats, and tourists meet to socialize, work, or relax. The diversity in café settings—from cozy indie spots to chic, modern cafés—caters to different preferences, creating a dynamic and inclusive coffee culture. Whether you’re after a traditional cup of kopi or a carefully crafted pour-over, Singapore’s café scene has something for everyone.

How the Third-wave Coffee Movement Affects Singapore’s Coffee Culture?

Third-wave cafés focus on coffee as an artisanal product, treating each step—from sourcing to brewing—as part of a craft. These cafés emphasize sustainable, single-origin beans and manual brewing techniques like pour-over and siphon brewing.

The third-wave coffee movement has had a profound impact on Singapore’s coffee culture, transforming coffee from a simple drink to a gourmet experience. Cafés like Nylon Coffee Roasters and Common Man Coffee Roasters lead this change, offering thoughtfully crafted brews and educating customers on the origin and flavor profiles of their coffee.

Exploring Kopi: Singapore’s Traditional Coffee

What is kopi?

In addition to modern café offerings, Singapore’s kopi holds a special place in the local coffee culture. Found in kopitiams and hawker centers, kopi is brewed from robusta beans roasted with sugar and butter, giving it a rich, deep flavor. It’s typically served with condensed or evaporated milk for a sweet and creamy finish. Locals enjoy a range of variations, including kopi o (black coffee with sugar) and kopi siew dai (less sugar), making it an essential experience for anyone exploring Singapore’s café scene. Common kopi recipes include:

Kopi: Coffee with condensed milk
Kopi Siew Dai: Coffee with less condensed milk
Kopi Gah Dai: Coffee with extra condensed milk
Kopi O: Black coffee with sugar
Kopi O Kosong: Black coffee without sugar
Kopi C: Coffee with evaporated milk and sugar
Kopi C Kosong: Coffee with evaporated milk, no sugar

Best Places to Enjoy Kopi in Singapore

Ya Kun Kaya Toast: Known for its robusta bean kopi, Ya Kun Kaya Toast offers a strong, bold brew that pairs perfectly with its famous kaya toast. The kopi is sweetened with condensed milk, creating a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore
Toast Box: Offering a smooth and aromatic kopi, Toast Box is popular for its kopi with condensed milk, emphasizing a well-balanced blend that is both rich and sweet.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore
Killiney Kopitiam: Known for its full-bodied, traditional kopi, Killiney Kopitiam serves a strong, slightly bitter brew sweetened with condensed milk, staying true to its heritage.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore
Chin Mee Chin Confectionery: Offering an old-school kopi experience, Chin Mee Chin’s kopi is brewed strong, slightly sweet, and pairs well with their charcoal-grilled buns, capturing the nostalgic flavors of traditional coffee.
Address: 204 East Coast Rd, Singapore 428903

Best Coffee Shops in Singapore’s Iconic Neighborhoods

Where are the must-visit cafes in Tiong Bahru?

Tiong Bahru is one of Singapore’s most iconic neighborhoods, blending its rich coffee history with modern trends. Once a quiet, residential area, it has evolved into a hotspot for trendy cafés, attracting coffee enthusiasts from all over. Some famous coffee places to check out are:

Tiong Bahru Bakery: Famous for its buttery croissants and strong, aromatic coffee. Their lattes pair perfectly with the pastries. With its vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s a favorite spot for both tourists and families.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore
Plain Vanilla Bakery: This cozy spot offers smooth, well-crafted brews paired with delicious cupcakes. Ideal for students or freelancers, it has a laid-back, inviting vibe for long coffee sessions.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore
The Glasshouse: A modern, minimalist café that focuses on beautifully crafted coffee and delicate pastries. Its clean, airy ambiance attracts digital nomads, tourists, and professionals looking for a tranquil place to enjoy coffee.
Address: 30 Victoria Street Chijmes, Singapore

Top coffee spots in Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD)?

The CBD offers a range of sophisticated coffee spots, perfect for office workers, tourists, and locals alike.

Common Man Coffee Roasters: Known for its dedication to specialty coffee, Common Man is the go-to spot for office workers and coffee aficionados. Their robust flat whites and long blacks are meticulously brewed and pair well with their brunch menu in a chic, industrial setting.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore
The Providore Downtown: With its elegant décor and premium coffee blends, this café offers a sophisticated experience. Ideal for professionals seeking a quiet yet upscale environment to enjoy a cappuccino or a flat white between meetings.
Address: 6A Shenton Way, B1-07 OUE Downtown Gallery, Singapore | Tel: +65 6221 7056
Punch: A minimalist design combined with excellent coffee makes Punch a hit with trendy office workers and tourists. Their cold brews and flat whites stand out, offering both depth and smoothness. The café’s airy vibe makes it a good spot for mid-day coffee breaks.
Address: 32 North Canal Rd, Singapore 059288
Sarnies: A laid-back café that offers rich flat whites and a variety of healthy dishes. Its relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating make it popular with office workers looking for a casual lunch or coffee stop.
Address: 136 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068601 | Tel: +65 8284 2146

Coffee Shop Singapore: Specialty Brews to Savor

What makes cold brew and flat white popular choices?

Cold brew is popular in Singapore’s tropical climate for its smooth, low-acid taste and refreshing cold serve. Flat whites, on the other hand, offer a creamier, more intense coffee experience due to the strong espresso-to-milk ratio, making them ideal for those seeking a bold yet balanced drink.

Nylon Coffee Roasters: Known for their precision in brewing single-origin espressos, they’re a top spot for purists who appreciate flavor clarity.
Address: 4 Everton Park, #01-40, Singapore | Tel: +65 6220 2330
Kith Café: This cozy spot delivers espresso that’s strong and smooth, ideal for coffee lovers looking for a laid-back, unpretentious atmosphere.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore
Alchemist The Heeren: A sleek, minimalist café specializing in rich and flavorful espresso, perfect for those who enjoy high-quality beans in a stylish setting.
Address: 260 Orchard Rd, #01-ORA The Heeren, Singapore 238855
Halcyon & Crane: Combining modern aesthetics with expertly brewed espresso, this café is a favorite for its bold and creamy coffee offerings.
Address: 290 Orchard Rd, #03-09 Paragon Shopping Centre, Singapore 238859 | Tel: +65 9727 5121
% Arabica: Famous for their single-origin beans and meticulous espresso preparation, this global coffee brand delivers an unparalleled coffee experience in a beautiful, modern environment.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore

Hidden Coffee Gems in Singapore

Singapore’s bustling coffee scene has a few hidden gems that remain under-the-radar yet deliver fantastic coffee experiences. These cozy, indie coffee shops are perfect for those seeking a quiet spot to enjoy a well-crafted brew in a minimalist setting.

Kurasu: This Japanese-inspired café focuses on pour-over coffee with minimalist décor. Ideal for those who appreciate precision in their coffee-making.
Address: 261 Waterloo St, #01-24, Singapore 180261
Bearded Bella: Cozy yet stylish, this café offers Australian-style coffee and is perfect for brunch lovers, serving up vibrant food alongside excellent coffee.
Address: 8 Craig Rd, Singapore 089668 | Tel: +65 9880 0775
Apartment Coffee: This café is small, intimate, and minimalist, with an emphasis on single-origin coffee, perfect for those who enjoy a thoughtful, quiet space.
Address: 139 Selegie Rd, #01-01, Singapore 188309
Sago House Coffee: A unique café-bar hybrid, Sago House Coffee opens at night, offering a fusion of coffee and cocktails, making it ideal for adventurous drinkers who enjoy evening vibes.
Address: 37 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089615 | Tel: +65 8874 9936

Popular Cafés for Coffee Lovers

Singapore is home to numerous cafés that blend social experiences with exceptional coffee. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular spots:

The Populus Coffee & Food Co.: This café offers a modern, communal vibe, perfect for casual hangouts. Their specialty coffee blends and all-day dining options make it ideal for groups.
Address: 146 Neil Rd, Singapore 088875 | Tel: +65 6635 8420
Dutch Colony Coffee Co.: With a warm, rustic atmosphere, Dutch Colony is a favorite among locals. It offers a full range of brews, from espressos to cold brews, making it a great place for friends or families to gather.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore
Five Oars Coffee Roasters: This trendy café boasts a chic interior with earthy tones and large communal tables. Known for its third-wave coffee, Five Oars is perfect for casual social gatherings.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore
Symmetry Café: A lively café with an eclectic mix of casual dining and excellent coffee. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet vibrant social scene over brunch or evening drinks.
Address: 9 Jln Kubor, #01-01, Singapore 199206 | Tel: +65 6291 9901
Toby’s Estate: Situated by the Singapore River, Toby’s Estate provides a relaxing riverside ambiance. This café is a great spot for meeting friends or hosting casual business meetings, offering quality coffee made from beans sourced globally.
Address: 8 Rodyk St, Singapore 238216 | Tel: +65 9177 3256

How do local cafés create community spaces?

Many cafés in Singapore double as workspaces and social hubs for remote workers and freelancers. Cafés like Dutch Colony and Symmetry Café offer ample seating and comfortable environments, encouraging extended stays for work, study, or casual meetups. With free Wi-Fi and power outlets, these cafés foster a sense of community by inviting locals to work, relax, or collaborate over a cup of expertly brewed coffee.

Sustainable Coffee Shops in Singapore

Singapore’s café scene is growing increasingly eco-conscious, with several coffee shops dedicated to sustainable and ethical practices:

Chye Seng Huat Hardware: Known for sourcing ethically grown beans, this café champions environmental responsibility throughout its operations.
Address: 150 Tyrwhitt Rd, Singapore 207563 | Tel: +65 6299 4321
Bettr Barista: A social enterprise that focuses on empowering disadvantaged communities while promoting sustainable coffee farming.
Address: 151 Lorong Chuan, #05-06 (Lobby E), New Tech Park, Singapore 556741 | Tel: 6383 5030
The Wired Monkey: Committed to sustainability, this café emphasizes eco-friendly practices such as using reusable cups and responsibly sourcing their beans.
Address: 5 Amoy St, Singapore 049948 | Tel: +65 9069 4569

Coffee and Food Pairings: What to Try

Pairing the right food with coffee can elevate your café experience. Whether you’re enjoying traditional Singaporean snacks or classic brunch dishes, the combination of flavors adds a special touch to your coffee break. Here are some popular pairings:

Kaya Toast with Kopi: A quintessential local combo, with sweet coconut jam toast and bold, rich kopi.
Croissants with Cappuccino: The flaky pastry contrasts perfectly with the smooth, foamy cappuccino.
Avocado Toast with Flat White: Creamy avocado complements the strong yet silky flat white.
Pancakes and Eggs Benedict with Latte: The richness of these brunch dishes pairs well with a creamy latte.

Coffee Roasting and Workshops

For coffee enthusiasts wanting to deepen their knowledge, Singapore offers a variety of coffee roasting tours and workshops that provide an immersive experience into the art of coffee.

Bettr Barista: Offers comprehensive workshops that cover everything from bean sourcing to espresso-making techniques.
Address: 151 Lorong Chuan 556741, #05-06 New Tech Park, Singapore
Common Man Coffee Roasters: Hosts interactive sessions on brewing methods and coffee appreciation.
Address: Multiple locations in Singapore

Conclusion

Singapore’s coffee culture is a vibrant blend of tradition and modern innovation, offering everything from local kopi to third-wave specialty brews. With such a diverse range of options, there’s always something new to try, so we encourage you to explore as many coffee experiences as possible. Have a favorite coffee spot or drink? Share your thoughts with us! For more information on living and exploring Singapore as an expat, check out our related resources and guides.