New Cafes And Coffee Spots In Singapore For Caffeine Junkies
Meet the latest hot shots in the coffee game.
Fact: We’ve been sipping coffee since the 9th century – yes, wild. Fast-forward through the dalgona craze (thank you, Squid Game), the rise of vibey cafes in Singapore, and a growing appreciation for artisanal, single-origin brews, and it’s official: Singapore’s coffee culture is brewing hotter than ever.
Besides cafes, independent home-based coffee businesses like Coffee Near Me (pictured) are also gaining traction, serving the caffeine fix of Singaporeans in the heartlands.
And the numbers back it up. According to data from Statista, out-of-home coffee purchases at restaurants and bars raked in a staggering US$1.81 billion ($2.44 billion) in 2024. To keep up with our ever-growing coffee obsession, chic new spots have been popping up over the past year, serving not just great cuppas but also major aesthetic vibes. Swipe to see what’s percolating.
BLUE BOTTLE COFFEE SINGAPORE
Blue Bottle has finally reached Southeast Asia. On the famed American chain's first outpost in the region, founder James Freeman says, “Singapore has long been a global crossroads of culture and cuisine, with a discerning community of coffee lovers who appreciate both tradition and innovation. It felt like the right place to introduce our approach to specialty coffee, where quality, craft, and hospitality come together, so it was naturally chosen as our very first Southeast Asian outpost.”
The takeaway: The American coffee giant has finally arrived in Southeast Asia, with its first stop in Singapore.
The lowdown: If you love coffee, you've probably heard of Blue Bottle—the California-based brand that started as a personal hobby, became a small cafe in 2002, and is now a global coffee franchise. Founded by James Freeman, now 60, Blue Bottle is the result of his passion for coffee-making and his desire to build a community around it. Over 20 years later, the brand has expanded worldwide while staying true to its ethos: a commitment to craft, quality, and the pursuit of the perfect cup.
When it first opened in Raffles City in August 2024, the space was selling only merchandise. As of April 3, it finally re-opened as Blue Bottle’s first Southeast Asian cafe. Beyond coffee, Blue Bottle also scores points for sustainability, working directly with farmers in Ethiopia, Colombia, and Guatemala to ensure high-quality, ethically sourced beans.
Fun fact: Blue Bottle was named after one of Europe’s first cafes, The Blue Bottle Coffee House in Vienna that was founded in 1683.
The drinks: Expect a rotating seasonal selection featuring both hand-dripped and espresso options (a Blue Bottle staple), alongside its signature single-origin and espresso-based drinks like its signature cold brew ($7.50) and New Orleans-style coffee ($8). Founder James Freeman’s personal favourite? Hays Valley Espresso ($6.50), the cafe’s original blend, named after its first Oakland location.
As for Singapore exclusives, Freeman shares: “We’re excited to introduce special offerings that reflect Singapore’s vibrant culinary landscape while staying true to Blue Bottle’s ethos of quality and craftsmanship.” Local flavours are incorporated into its menu through its accompanying bakes. Find artisinal viennoiseries like its coconut kouign amann ($8) and pandan canele with kaya ($6) alongside typical cafe bakes like pain au chocolat ($8) and croissants ($8).
The vibe: Open yet personal. Like its other outposts, Blue Bottle's Singapore outpost mirrors its philosophy of thoughtful, intentional design. Think clean lines, bright and inviting interiors, and natural materials. With a U-shaped coffee bar and an open barrier-less dining space, it stays true to Freeman's original vision of creating a coffee community that's warm and personal. As part of its opening celebrations, customers can purchase and customise their Blue Bottle totes from April 3-5 any time between 12-7pm.
Location: Lumine Singapore, #01-01 Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road
Where to find it: Instagram
CORNER CORNER
In the day, Corner Corner serves their coffee in a tranquil space. At night, it transforms into RPM by deBespoke, a shochu-focused vinyl listening bar with a collection of over 3,000 vinyl records. Cheang saw the space’s potential for the tranquil daytime activities Corner Corner now conducts. “The space itself feels like a portal to another dimension, enhanced by the warmth of live vinyl playback,” Cheang says, “It’s an experience that words can only capture so much—you have to feel it to truly understand.”
The takeaway: Jazz and coffee come together in a kissaten-inspired cafe on Duxton Road.
The lowdown: The pairing of music and coffee is the latest obsession in Singapore; from vinyl cafes to DJ sets with caffeine pairings, the trend is growing. Enter Corner Corner, an intimate space inspired by kissatens, which are traditional Japanese tearoom-style cafes that typically only serves coffee and desserts, often with a nostalgic old-school atmosphere.
For founder Carmen Cheang, 30, Corner Corner combines all her passions - coffee, vinyl, and the intimate atmosphere of Japanese jazz kissatens. Her dream began at 17, spending years behind the bar, working in roasteries across Malaysia and Singapore, and handling marketing for PPP, Common Man Coffee, and Tiong Bahru Bakery. She brewed coffee, designed workflows, and consulted on coffee programmes until, finally, she decided on strike out on her own, opening Corner Corner this January.
Carmen Cheang (pictured above) is the visionary behind kissaten-inspired cafe and bar, Corner Corner.
The drinks: Unlike most cafes that favour espresso-based drinks, Corner Corner focuses on hand-brewed coffee with a rotating selection of local and international roasters. This March, the cafe highlights Sweet Blossom ($8) from Malaysia, a small roastery run by Cheang’s friends, equally passionate about coffee.
As a kissa-inspired cafe, expect Japanese-style desserts, including mini orange pound cake ($4) and house-made caramel pudding ($8). For tea lovers, the menu also includes standout brews. Cheang’s personal favourite? Cold Brew Awa Bancha ($9) from Pekoe & Imp. “We recently did a tasting, and I was blown away—not just by the flavor but by the story behind the tea. It felt special, like it deserved a place on our menu.”
The vibe: Quiet and tranquil. By night, the space is a vibrant bar, but by day, it’s a peaceful corner (pun intended) with a vintage feel. If you’re after curated music, small bites, quality coffee, and a laid-back escape from the city’s hustle, Corner Corner is for you.
Location: 16 Duxton Road
Where to find it: Instagram
MURO COFFEE
On what the cafe means to them, Ho says, “This partnership has allowed us to infuse our personalities into the shop, as we believe a cafe's vibe reflects its owners'.”
The takeaway: A chic, edgy cafe serving a strong cuppa, tucked away in a Chinatown shophouse.
The lowdown: Founded by four friends—Shawn Ho (29), Jerron Chua (30), Serina and Max (both 31)—Muro Coffee, opened in November 2024 in a Chinatown shophouse, is the realisation of their shared dreams. Its name blends the Japanese term kuro (black) and Spanish muro (wall), symbolising their mission to break barriers and foster connections, all while embracing a sleek, black-themed aesthetic. The formula's been so successful that the team added a second location at Esplanade in December 2024.
Craving a bite with your coffee? If standard cafe bakes aren’t hitting the spot, Muro Coffee offers an alternative pairing—focaccia. Preferring the depth of sourdough and herbs, they serve five variations ($11.90), that go perfectly with their expertly brewed coffee and matcha.
The drinks: With Ho and Chua’s decade-long experience behind the espresso machine, coffee lovers are in safe hands. The cafe sources beans from local roaster Flip Coffee Roasters, alongside a selection of single-origin filter coffee (Brazil, Ethiopia, Costa Rica, Kenya, $8-9 each). Ho’s recommendations? The Dir-Tiramisu ($8)—a dirty latte topped with sweet cream, cocoa powder, and a biscuit, like a liquid tiramisu. Or the Orange Espresso Tonic ($8)—an espresso tonic with a citrus twist. For matcha lovers, they offer classic matcha lattes ($6) and strawberry matcha ($8.50), using matcha sourced from Matchaya.
The vibe: Two words: modern industrial. Muro Coffee’s aesthetic reflects its founders’ style—classy, clean, and understated. It’s a laid-back spot, great for lunch dates or last-minute essay writing. The cherry on top? A record player and a photobooth. Browse vinyl from Lorde, Beabadoobee, and more, all from the founders’ personal collections. Want a chic keepsake? Every $10 spent earns you a photobooth strip.
Locations: 214A South Bridge Road, and #01-13E Annexe, 8 Raffles Avenue
Where to find it: Instagram & TikTok
BEE HOE COFFEE
Coffee was always on Bee Hoe Coffee co-founder Joann Hong’s radar; her father-in-law used to run a kopitiam, and so she named her cafe after his original shop.
The takeaway: An in-house coffee service at a barbershop that expanded to a full-fledged cafe, Joo Chiat gets another coffee gem.
The lowdown: For 40-year-old Joann Hong, coffee was always in the background—her father-in-law ran a kopitiam for decades, and her husband, Chris, has deep ties in Singapore’s coffee scene. Meanwhile, Hong built a creative career, spending nine years as an art director at Resorts World Sentosa and two years at Marina Bay Sands in branding and advertising.
Bee Hoe Coffee began when Chris, inspired by his father’s legacy, wanted to open a coffee spot. Initially birthed as an exclusive service inside a Joo Chiat barbershop, the couple decided to expand it, opening as a full-fledged cafe this January, with Hong undergoing barista training to help run the space.
“Some pop by for a quick takeaway; others linger under the tree with a book. Cyclists pause to savour their coffee, while locals drop in for their morning fix. It’s been heartwarming to see our little spot become a cherished retreat,” shares Hong.
The drinks: In a nod to Joo Chiat's vibrant Vietnamese community, Bee Hoe Coffee pays homage to the area by using imported Vietnamese beans. Expect sweet, indulgent concoctions like Iced Peanut Butter Coffee ($5.50), Honey Egg Coffee ($4), and Hong’s personal favourite, a simple Iced Long Black ($3).
The vibe: Tucked in a Joo Chiat back alley, Bee Hoe Coffee is fast becoming a quiet escape from the neighbourhood’s bustling cafe scene. “Being hidden lets us offer a peaceful retreat from the daily grind,” says Hong. Inspired by her own backyard—shaded by a large tree—the space brings that same cosy charm, complete with greenery for a cool, shaded respite.
Location: 55 Joo Chiat Place
Where to find it: Instagram
PACTO BY PARCHMEN (MAXWELL)
Parchmen & Co is a coffee collective that spans six points (five cafe and food outlets and a kitchen bakery and roastery).
The takeaway: The growing coffee collective, known for its dedication to high-quality, direct-sourced coffee and tea, adds a cosy new caffeine alcove at lifestyle hub Kada.
The lowdown: A veteran in Singapore’s coffee scene, Dave Lim founded Sun Ray Cafe in 2010—one of the country’s longest-running pet-friendly cafes. His coffee empire has since grown into Parchmen & Co, a collective with its own roastery, teahouse, bakery, and now, a micro-cafe: Pacto. Opened in December 2024, Pacto at Kada is a tiny hole-in-the-wall serving coffee at its bar and takeaway window. It marks Parchmen’s first step into the CBD, offering quality coffee and tea without inflated prices. The second Pacto outlet (the first launched in Ubi in 2021), it continues the brand’s ethos of making top-tier brews accessible.
Pacto prioritises quality, serving matcha koicha ($5), hand-brewed coffee ($8), and hand-brewed tea ($7), all sourced directly from farms. Espresso specials rotate monthly; March features a Santa Monica Red Berry fermentation (~$8), a fruity coffee made with beans fermented alongside red cherries, raspberries, and strawberries using wine yeast.
The drinks: Don’t let its compact size fool you (Pacto only seats four, and rings in at about 30 sq ft) - they pack a serious menu, offering three espressos, six filter coffees, six gongfu teas, five matcha variations, four hojicha options, two cold brew coffees, two cold brew teas, and four chocolate beverages.
Beyond its roastery, Parchmen directly sources about 50 per cent of its coffee and tea from local and regional farms. “It’s time-consuming and expensive, but meaningful,” says Lim. “We bring back their stories and local knowledge to share with our guests.”
The vibe: Ideal for coffee purists and those after a quality brew on the go. With just two benches, Pacto is all about the coffee—no lounging, just top-tier drinks. As Lim puts it: “We have nothing to show but our offerings. We represent the hard work of producers and the terroir, presenting their craft to our guests.”
Location: #01-10 Kada, 5 Kadayanallur Street
Where to find it: Instagram
To:You Cafe
To:You Cafe is a trendy addition to the quiet Kembangan neighbourhood. Its turquoise facade stands out, with a camping-themed outdoor section featuring camping chairs and ample space for furry friends.
The takeaway: A trendy cafe with a warm, outdoorsy vibe opens in the quiet neighbourhood of Kembangan.
The lowdown: 28-year-old Laura Lau has spent over a decade building her resume, working in patisseries, hot kitchens, cafes, and even a kopitiam, all to fulfil her dream of opening her own cafe. In February 2025, she and her co-founder (who prefers to remain private) launched To:You. Located near a hawker centre in the Jalan Senang area, the joint quickly became a neighbourhood favourite, attracting both cafe hoppers and local families (sometimes with their furry companions).
With both indoor and outdoor seating, the space is as Insta-worthy as its food, featuring mirrors, hanging greenery, and a skylit section—perfect for afternoon hangouts.
The drinks: Expect Gen Z favourites, including strawberry matcha ($7) and flavoured coffee lattes like pistachio cold brew ($8) and sea salt cold foam ($7), along with Lau’s personal favourite, Earl Grey matcha ($7). The cafe’s beans come from Tiong Hoe, and its matcha is sourced from Niko Neko. The all-day brunch menu offers Japanese fusion dishes, such as the To:You Breakfast Platter ($20) with a dashi omelette, bratwurst, croissant, and sauteed mushrooms, and the Mentaiko Tamago Sando ($18).
The vibe: To:You embodies a modern kampung spirit. It’s a cosy, unpretentious space where neighbours and friends gather, featuring exposed concrete floors, a skylight, plants, stainless steel, and turquoise tiles. “We envisioned it as a welcoming space for everyone,” Lau says. Think of it as a neighbour’s backyard—with the bonus of air-conditioning.
Location: 90 Jalan Senang
Where to find it: Instagram
ECHO
While dreaming of her own brand, Melissa (Echo's founder) envisioned a space that reflected her and her community's thoughts and ideas. It would be a space that offers a pick-me-up from the stresses of the Singapore rat race, where creative collaborations and personal connections can be formed.
The takeaway: A zillenial's take on a great coffee spot is a space made for community, by community, and is already taking off before their official opening.
The lowdown: A self-proclaimed "confused Zillennial" (a micro-generation for those born on the cusp of Millennials and Gen Z, roughly between the years 1992 and 2002), Echo's founder, who prefers to go by the name Melissa, is at an especially confusing point of her life: the cusp of adulthood. A fresh communications graduate from NTU, many of Melissa's friends fell into one of three categories: globe trotting, in a high-paying corporate job, or partying. While she was fully prepared to find a 9-5 office job too, nothing really resonated with her.
However, she has always dreamt of starting her own brand with her now business partner, who goes by Joel. One night, Melissa realised, what was stopping them right now? And so, Echo opened at Kada, offering a refuge for other confused Zillenials or those who simply want a peaceful escape from the bustle of life. While its official opening was actually scheduled for late December 2024, patrons had already begun dropping by purely through word-of-mouth, or by just passing by.
Echo is a project for community, by Melissa's community. With help from her previous lecturer and friends, Melissa's dream of opening her own business finally came to life in building Kada, a former missionary hospital. Now, Kada is in the midst of being transformed into a lifestyle wellness hub in the heart of Maxwell.
The drinks: There's something for everyone. You'll find your cafe menu staples classics like iced strawberry matchas ($8.50), cafe lattes ($5.50) and black coffee ($5). In the spirit of Echo, Melissa also wanted to mirror her personal preferences as well, and created the Remixed Classics, which are twists on cafe classics - a twist on the usual mix of orange espresso (hers contains passionfruit).
The vibe: With an indoor and pet-friendly outdoor area, its perfect for a mid-day pick-me-up. Whether for your lunch break at your nearby corporate job, or taking a furry friend on an afternoon walk, Echo is a warm space built by Melissa's community of creatives. To bring Echo to life, her friends and lecturer helped Melissa create its branding, take photos and design its interior.
Location: #01-08 5 Kadayanallur Street
Where to find it: Instagram
HAUS COFFEE
Co-owners Tan Junyu and How Suphasiri wanted to create a sanctuary for creatives. What do creatives love more than coffee and fashion? A stylish concept store that blends the two together. "'Haus' means "house" in German and reflects the warmth and comfort we hope you feel whenever you visit. Whether catching up with friends, getting some work done, or just taking a moment for yourself, Haus Coffee is your home away from home," says Tan.
The takeaway: Gen Z-owned vintage store has a new location and venture: an edgy concept store serving coffee, vintage clothes, and vibes.
The lowdown: Rookies, a thrift store known for its well-curated selection of Americana and Japanese apparel, has officially moved out of Penninsula Shopping Centre. Worry not, they're now at Golden Mile Tower with a new in-store addition: Haus Coffee. Why the move? Co-owners 20 year olds, Tan Junyu and How Suphasiri have always loved older malls because they have "added flexibility and less stress to conform to a 'typical' shopping mall store." Inspired by Thai and Japanese concept stores, the Rookies and Haus Concept Store was created with a cozy and edgy vibe for creatives and coffee lovers alike. While its official opening is January 10, 2025, the store is already open for drinks and second-hand finds.
At the Rookie and Haus Concept Store, good vibes don't stop at retail therapy: every Saturday, Haus Coffee hosts DJ sessions that combine music, coffee, and fashion. Tan and How believe that music ties together coffee and fashion and sets the mood for truly connecting with other creatives. These sessions are their way of creating a space that offers the "full vibe."
The drinks: Their signature drink is the Haus Black ($9), a cold brew made of the award-winning Ethiopian Samii Banko Giotti beans, which were crafted by barista Suren, who was Malaysia's 2023 Barista Champion. Highly recommended by Tan, this blend is a medium-roast with notes of apricot, cherry wine and passionfruit. Other highlights include the 1980s Affogato ($12) and Summer Madness ($9) - the former is basically a banana split as an affogato and the latter is a cold brew with bold pops of flavours with tea foam and dehydrated fruit.
The vibe: For caff-fiends who love vintage shopping, this is the spot for you. Upon entrance, the first half of the store comprises racks of vintage clothes, while the other half is the in-store cafe, Haus Coffee. In terms of apparel, you'll find vintage Japanese streetwear alongside indie brands like Paradise Youth Club, Homeward Bound, and Rookies' own fashion line, Rookies Studio.
Location: #01-57 Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Road
Where to find it: Instagram
CARACARA
Caracara is the brainchild of a business developer - 31 year old Gabriel Tan, who comes from a luxury furniture manufacturing background. “Beyond showcasing furniture, I wanted to infuse the space with elements that reflect my personal interests and passions. By incorporating fashion, design, art, coffee, and food, the space becomes a unique and multi-dimensional experience, offering customers a blend of functionality, inspiration, and creativity,” says Tan.
The takeaway: A cafe where you can enjoy food, ethically-sourced coffee, as well as shop for luxury furniture.
The lowdown: As a business development worker at Falcon (an interior design and luxury contract furniture manufacturer for high-end hotels), founder Gabriel Tan, 31, noticed that homeowners tended to be intimidated by the term 'hotel furniture.' Seeking to rectify this, Tan set out to make a furniture showroom that felt welcoming and comfortable. However, he still wanted the space to feel personal. While designing the space, Tan wanted to infuse elements that reflected his personal interests and passions and eventually, the idea of a cafe began to seep in. And so, the idea expanded from the initial showroom to a cafe - Caracara - where people can also shop for the furniture while dining.
Dining in style takes a whole new meaning at Caracara, with its elegant layout and custom-made furnishings.
The drinks: Their coffee is for true coffee connoisseurs. It starts with their beans; sourced directly from producers across Southeast Asia, their beans are ethically sourced and have undergone unique processing methods such as honey, natural and anaerobic processes. When the beans arrive at Caracara's barista bar, ordering takes two steps. The first: pick your beans. The second: pick your beverage type.
Caracara’s signature bean is Aurora, which has grape and rum tasting notes. Tan recommends ordering it as an iced latte with Cara’s milk ($8.77), the cafe’s in-house milk blend. For those whose tastes run towards the classic, the Milkadoodle and Dark Indeed are recommended; the former offers rich peanut butter and milk chocolate tasting notes while the latter offers a bold, intense dark chocolate flavour.
The vibes: Ever dined in a café that doubles as a luxury showroom? At Caracara, you can savour high-quality coffee while surrounded by elegant furniture that’s also available for purchase. The café is currently curating a collection of exclusive small-batch designs, set to launch in February 2025. Until then, you can enjoy their signature Japanese fusion menu, a perfect complement to the stylish, design-forward atmosphere.
Location: Level 1 of 77 Neil Road
Where to find it: Instagram
BIG SHORT COFFEE
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Inspired by the movie The Big Short, founders Daphne Phee and Harry Grover felt that the movie captured their mission to do something wildly experimental with coffee. And so, in July 2024, Big Short Coffee opened.
The takeaway: The Fourth Wave Coffee movement starts in a Joo Chiat coffee bar, where coffee making is a gastronomic endeavor.
The lowdown: According to researchers, Third Wave Coffee is a cultural movement whereby more emphasis is placed on specialty coffee to ensure a high quality drinking experience. Many in the coffee scene are arguing that we're entering the fourth wave, which emphasises food science.
One such connoisseur is Big Short Coffee's founder, 33 year old Daphne Phee. After 18 years as an operations manager at Awfully Chocolate, Phee knew it was time to move on. And so, she partnered with Harry Grover, founder of 40 Hands Coffee and Common Man Coffee Roasters- both well-known names in Singapore's coffee scene, to create Big Short Coffee. Since its opening in July 2024, its experimental brews have been making waves in Singapore's coffee scene.
For gastronomes, Phee dishes out the process of preparing Black Forest's (pictured bottom left) ingredients: "With Big Short-blend espresso, we make a coulis (a thin sauce made of pureed and strained fruits or vegetables) with Morello sour cherries and add wildflower honey, and vanilla bean. Next, we gently heat some fresh milk and cream, add chocolate, mix everything together and heat it up. This causes the milk to separate the curds from the whey. Using a 24-hour gravity clarification method, we clarify the milk by letting it drip slowly."
The drinks: Experimental. With an ever-changing menu that changes according to the seasons, Big Short's menu is like a series of science experiments that test techniques from molecular gastronomy and cocktail making. Ingredients are even made in-house and from scratch. From their brand new Winter 2024 menu, Phee's personal favourite is a drink named Black Forest ($9.50), inspired by Black Forest cake.
The vibe: Joo Chiat is filled with unique and aesthetic eateries, and Big Short Coffee is no exception. What sets it apart is that your coffee comes with a scientific presentation. With a long bar that wraps around the barista station, you can watch your drinks be topped with flavoured bubbles, blow torched and expertly assembled right in front of you.
Location: #01-01 2 Fowlie Road
Where to find it: Instagram
2050 COFFEE
2050 Coffee’s first branch in Kyoto is serving up futuristic vibes, along with a cup of ethically sourced and sustainably produced coffee.
The takeaway: Cult coffee shop Kurasu’s latest venture mixes sustainability with killer brews – definitely our next coffee hotspot.
The lowdown: If you’ve been to Kyoto-based coffee franchise Kurasu’s two locations at Orchard Building and Waterloo Centre, then its latest venture, 2050 Coffee, should be at the top of your list. With predictions that half of the land used for Arabica coffee cultivation could become unusable by 2050, Kurasu founder Yozo Otsuki set out to future-proof coffee culture in 2023. His solution? 2050 Coffee.
READ MORE: You Can Grab Coffee And Shop For Vintage At New Zion Road Cafe Uptown.
After opening its first outlet in Kyoto in February 2024, 2050 Coffee is gearing up to launch its first overseas spot in Singapore by the end of 2024 (exact date TBD). What’s certain, though, is the chance to enjoy high-quality international beans on a monthly rotational basis.
2050 Coffee will feature the fully automated, state-of-the-art Eversys Cameo C/2ms Super Traditional espresso machine.
The drinks: With a fully automatic espresso machine and batch taps, 2050 Coffee serves up quality espresso, batch brews, and even specialty drinks like matcha and cascara cherry tea – all in a flash. This cafe also blends sustainability with its products and services, exclusively partnering with farms that use regenerative agriculture methods to preserve soil health. In other words, their coffee beans are not just delicious – they’re ethically sourced and produced.
READ MORE: The First Ralph Lauren Cafe In Singapore Is Now Open
The vibe: The futurism extends to the interior, too. Though Singapore’s space is still under construction, it’s set to mirror the sleek, spaceship-esque design of the Kyoto branch. As we eagerly await this new kid on the block in Singapore’s coffee scene, keep an eye on 2050 Coffee's Instagram for the latest updates.
The location: 267 Beach Road
Find it on: Instagram
GROUND FLOOR COFFEE
Ground Floor Coffee opened its first outlet in September 2024.
The short takeaway: Beloved home-based coffee spot moves to East Village Mall – bigger space, same passion, more room to grow
The lowdown: If you’re an Eastie, you’re probably already familiar with this coffee spot. Adhwa Hasif kicked off his coffee journey as a takeaway, hole-in-the-wall cafe in 2022, so brewing is second nature to him. What’s new? He’s no longer serving coffee from his HDB flat in Pasir Ris. As of September 2024, Ground Floor Coffee has opened its first café at East Village Mall.
READ MORE: Hole-In-The-Wall Coffee Joints Are Popping Up In Singapore
The new location allows the cafe to better support both its customers and family. Operating from home came with limitations, making it difficult to collaborate with other brands. The final nudge? Adhwa’s young daughter, who’s about to enter primary school, asked for her own room.
Ground Floor Coffee serves coffee from local roaster Fluid Collective, who exclusively handles its sourcing and roasting.
The drinks: From classic lattes ($4) to Dirty Chais ($7.80) and new matcha lattes ($7), this cafe is a must-visit. With beans sourced and roasted in collaboration with local roastery Fluid Collective, you’ll definitely be #supportinglocal.
The vibe: The new digs keep the charm of its original HDB window – still takeaway-only, with a modern yet homely feel. Picture large potted plants and the familiar sounds and smells of coffee-making. And of course, Hasif is still behind the espresso machine, doing what he does best.
READ MORE: Six Cafe-Bars For Your Coffee And Cocktail Fix
The location: #01-53 East Village Mall, 430 Upper Changi Road
Find it on: Instagram
CAFE GYOEN
Inspired by Tokyo’s vibrant energy, Cafe Gyoen also boasts a chic photo spot: the Tokyo train cabin.
The takeaway: Tokyo-inspired gem that serves matcha and more, run by siblings with passion
The lowdown: Cafe Gyoen might not look like it now, but it started as a cosy family-run izakaya in Tai Seng. When Covid-19 hit, siblings Natalyn and Ryan Chan took a bold step – she ditched her gig at an independent fashion blog, and he walked away from the world of oil trading – to dive into the family business. Now, they’re running it full-time, having turned it into a sleek Tokyo-inspired specialty cafe.
Pronounced 'gyo-ehn,' meaning "imperial garden," the name is a nod to their favourite Tokyo park, Shinjuku Gyoen. The Japanese-inspired food and beverage menu features ceremonial-grade matcha from Shizuoka – perfect for those who take their matcha seriously.
Café Gyoen is the brainchild of siblings Natalyn (left) and Ryan (right) Chan – responsible for everything from the menu and layout to the name. Pair your specialty brew with Japanese-inspired dishes, all crafted with care. With Ryan’s sushi apprenticeship, the food is just as high-quality as the coffee.
The drinks: Indulge in refreshing concoctions like the Mango Matcha Latte ($8) and Strawberry Matcha Spritz ($7.50), both offering a satisfying caffeine kick. For coffee lovers, expect Japanese-inspired brews, with beans sourced from a local roaster delivering a full-bodied aroma. For the ultimate caffeine fix, try the Dirty Matcha Latte ($8) — a matcha latte with a shot of espresso. Sweet tooth? Don’t miss the Kohi Jelly ($10.50), a classic served in Japanese coffee and tea rooms, topped with a scoop of gelato.
READ MORE: A Directory Of New And Independent Cafes, Bakeries And Restaurants In Singapore
The vibe: With a menu that blends modern Japanese flair and tradition, plus a trendy, photogenic interior, what's not to love? For shutterbugs, the cafe features a Tokyo train cabin-inspired space – designed to be the perfect backdrop for your Instagram feed.
The location: 55 Serangoon Garden Way
Find it on: Instagram
BULLOCK CART COFFEE
The mother-son duo behind Bullock Cart Coffee, Mary Chan (bottom, far left) and Esmond Toon (bottom, left), are bringing creative coffee brews to Chinatown and Bugis.
The takeaway: A mother-son duo brewing up buzz with two thriving coffee spots.
The lowdown: This beloved coffee spot is so popular, it's opened its second outlet just seven months after the first. Bullock Cart Coffee is the brainchild of mother-son duo, Esmond Toon and Mary Chan, who are now serving their brews in both Chinatown and, as of September 2024, Bugis.
READ MORE: Something Fun Is Brewing At Beyond The Vines
Toon’s coffee journey began as a hobby during the pandemic. After losing his fintech job last year, an overseas trip sparked an epiphany: why not turn his passion into a business? Meanwhile, Chan, after three decades in the corporate world, left her job to support her son’s venture. Together, they launched Bullock Cart Coffee.
According to Toon, the Taro Latte ($6) is a crowd-favourite that put them on the map.
The drinks: The cafe is best known for its signature Taro Latte ($6) – a smooth blend of double espresso, milk (oat and soy milk available), and taro, offering the perfect balance of nutty and sweet for a post-lunch pick-me-up. Another favourite is the Peach Espresso Soda ($6.50), a refreshing fizzy drink with peach puree and a shot of espresso. But that’s not all – Toon has teased an upcoming brew inspired by a traditional Chinese dessert, promising a truly unique twist on local flavours.
The vibe: The cafe offers an intimate, vintage-inspired space that feels warm and homely. Despite the limited seating, it’s always welcoming, especially with Toon and Chan personally handling service at their Chinatown location. It's like popping over to a friend's house for a quick chat – only with top-notch coffee and refreshing caffeine concoctions.
The locations: #02-57A Hong Lim Complex, 175 South Bridge Road; and #01-03, 103 Beach Road
Find it on: Instagram
CALLIGRAPH COFFEE
In Duo Galleria, discover a cosy haven fuelled by caffeine and a true appreciation for craft.
The takeaway: Peaceful caffeine haven in Bugis, blending matcha and specialty brews for ultimate bliss
The lowdown: If you're a coffee lover hooked on TikTok's matcha obsession, Calligraph Coffee is your new favourite spot. Nestled in the vibrant Duo Galleria, this cafe serves up both specialty coffee and matcha, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of Singapore.
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Starting a cafe has always been founder Nicholas' dream (he’s all about the first-name basis). Before launching Calligraph Coffee, he juggled a corporate nine-to-five in tech while perfecting his coffee-brewing craft on weekends. After saving up, he took the leap, left his corporate job in June, and officially opened Calligraph Coffee in July 2024.
The drinks at Calligraph Coffee highlight the subtle nuances in its coffee and matcha profiles. Try the Yunnan ($8.90), Ethiopia ($8.90) coffee, or Nori ceremonial-grade matcha ($9.90) to taste the difference for yourself.
The drinks: Simplicity is at the heart of this cafe's brewing philosophy, letting the quality of its beans shine through. From Yunnan, the Baima Natural beans bring a fruity, wine-like flavour to the coffee. Not a fan? The cafe also sources beans from other regions. Its matcha is equally top-notch – enjoy ceremonial-grade matcha and hojicha, all sourced directly from Japan.
The vibe: If you're looking for a spot to cool off during your shopping escapades, this cafe is perfect. It blends trendy minimalism with satisfying caffeinated drinks. Though the cafe tends to fill up during weekday lunches, check it out during off-peak hours when the cafe's minimalism really lets you immerse in the flavours of its drinks. It has everything a cafe should – good chill vibes, accessibility, and, of course, quality coffee brews.
The location: #01-57 Duo Galleria, 1 Fraser Street
Find it on: Instagram
COFFEE NEAR ME
Coffee Near Me is a new home-based cafe near Thomson Nature Park.
The takeaway: Home-based cafe in Thomson, created to bring coffee closer to neighbours, now welcoming walk-ins islandwide
The lowdown: Sonia Lim, a freelancer and avid coffee lover, faced a challenge: cafes were hard to come by near her estate. So, she decided to solve the problem herself. Enter Coffee Near Me — the latest home-based cafe on the block, much to the delight of her neighbours at Casuarina Walk.
It all started in February 2024 when Lim began brewing coffee for her neighbours. "I just wanted to meet more people and bond over coffee!" she says. After receiving an outpouring of positive feedback, she took the leap and opened her driveway to the public in May.
Thanks to TikTok virality, the cafe is selecting a local roastery partner. In the meantime, enjoy Lim's rotating selection of heavenly bakes, just as delightful as the coffee and vibes.
The drinks: Serving Americanos ($3.50), coffee lattes ($4.50), and Spanish lattes ($5), Lim's brews perfectly complement the friendly chatter. The cafe's drinks are set to improve: after gaining TikTok popularity, local roasteries have reached out for potential partnerships. As Lim continues discussions with suppliers, enjoy her rotating selection of bakes, which evolve as she experiments in the kitchen.
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The vibe: If you're looking for quality roasts and kampung spirit, add Coffee Near Me to your list. Since opening its doors, the cafe has gained thousands of TikTok views. Despite its growing online following, the cafe still feels warm and homely. With its open-air setting, fresh brews, and the fact that it's hosted in Lim's driveway, this cafe is the ultimate vibe.
The location: 20 Casuarina Walk
Find it on: Instagram and TikTok
WATERMILL
Nestled within the art-filled fitness sanctuary, Sphere, Watermill exudes a clean-girl vibe with a touch of edge – perfectly embodying founder Adeline Teo (bottom right).
The takeaway: Hidden coffee gem in Holland Village, founded by a stylish content creator
The lowdown: Watermill cafe is a hidden gem tucked in the unlikeliest of spots – inside a gym. What's the connection? For founder Adeline Teo, it’s all about blending wellness with design. Sphere, the gym and fitness recovery space, understands the power of both art and fitness, making them the perfect partners in crime.
Located within Sphere’s Holland Village outlet, Watermill is a personal project for Teo. The name is inspired by her dream getaway, Water Mill, New York, a charming hamlet in Southampton, Long Island. The logo? Inspired by 'Blue Jean', a distinctive shade of blue created by luxury brand Hermes. It’s a soft, vibrant blue with a hint of grey, instantly recognisable. Naturally, the cafe serves her two go-to drinks: coffee and matcha.
Watermill is the perfect stop for those on-the-go – grab a specialty coffee latte ($6.50) or iced matcha ($7.50) on your way from the gym to the office.
The drinks: Watermill sources its coffee from local roasters, serving espressos ($4), Americanos ($5.50), and coffee lattes ($6.50). Like the other cafes on this list, it also offers iced matcha lattes ($7.50). With matcha from a family-owned farm in Uji, Kyoto, Watermill’s on-the-go cuppas rival those from any specialty cafe.
READ MORE: What To Do In Kyoto: A Guide For Art And Design Lovers
The vibe: Watermill may be takeaway-only, but what sets it apart from spots like Ground Floor Coffee is its design focus, a philosophy it shares with Sphere. The interior exudes edgy clean-girl vibes, with a heavy stone counter, light beige and deep blue walls, and the art that fills the space. In an area full of watering holes, Watermill embraces your inner urbanite. Swing by for a workout, admire Sphere’s art, grab an iced Americano, and head off to your next adventure.
Where: #02-07 One Holland Village, 7 Holland Village Way
Find it on: Instagram
JUNE COFFEE
This Joo Chiat staple may already be on your radar, but did you know it’s under a year old? With its homely, warm vibe, it’s perfect for friendly catch-ups and first dates.
The takeaway: Hip caffeine gem serving layered lattes, all-day brunch, and bold, beautiful brews
The lowdown: A Joo Chiat gem, June Coffee is the brainchild of the team behind the popular Chinatown cafe, September Coffee. Opening in June 2024 (yes, the irony isn't lost on us), the cafe quickly became known for its layered coffee lattes and all-day brunch menu. It’s got everything Gen Z craves – style, stunning desserts, and of course, a seriously strong cup of coffee.
READ MORE: A Guide To Exploring Joo Chiat Like A True Insider
Behind the scenes, the Tan family prefers to let their drinks (and the vibe) speak for themselves. Don’t be fooled by the stunning lattes – they’re crafted with high-quality roasts, including Colombian single-origin beans, for the perfect balance of art and caffeine.
The cafe’s layered coffee creations are sweet-savory works of art. With espresso, milk, and flavoured foam, each drink delivers both bold flavour and a solid caffeine kick.
The drinks: Signature coffee drinks include the Iced Pistachio Latte ($9) and Iced Black Sesame Latte ($8). While you're there, don’t miss the brunch menu staple: thick-brioche French toast ($12-$17). Like the other cafes on this list, they also have something for matcha lovers. New additions like the Pistachio Matcha Latte ($9) and Taro Matcha Latte ($8) are sure to be just as satisfying (and beautiful) as the rest of the artisanal menu.
The vibe: If its layered beverages don’t catch your eye, its interior surely will. With dark wood furniture and pops of greenery as the centrepiece, this cafe is one of the most photogenic spots around. Feeding yourself here is basically feeding your Instagram feed.
Where: 47/49 East Coast Road
Find it on: Instagram