Coffee Shop Singapore: A Guide to the Best Cafes in the City
Welcome to the vibrant coffee scene of Singapore! Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just someone who enjoys a good cup of joe, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your caffeine cravings in this bustling city-state. From cosy cafes to trendy coffee shops, Singapore has it all.
Coffee shops in Singapore are not just places to grab a quick drink, but also serve as social hubs where people gather to catch up with friends or work remotely. They offer a unique blend of local and international flavours, with many cafes incorporating traditional Singaporean ingredients into their coffee creations.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the best coffee shops in Singapore, guide you through the different types and tastes of coffee, and answer some frequently asked questions about coffee culture in Singapore. So grab a cup of coffee and let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- Singapore has a vibrant coffee scene with a variety of coffee shops and cafes to choose from.
- Coffee shops in Singapore serve as social hubs and offer a unique blend of local and international flavours.
- This article will guide you through the best coffee shops in Singapore, different types and tastes of coffee, and answer frequently asked questions.
Exploring Singapore’s Coffee Scene
If you’re a coffee lover, Singapore is a great place to explore. With a thriving coffee culture and a wide range of coffee shops and roasters to choose from, you’re sure to find a brew that suits your taste. Here are some popular coffee shops and roasters that you should check out:
Popular Coffee Shops and Roasters
- Common Man Coffee Roasters: This is a popular coffee shop that serves up delicious coffee and food. Their coffee is roasted in-house, and they offer a range of brews to choose from.
- Chye Seng Huat Hardware: This coffee shop is housed in a former hardware store and has a cool industrial vibe. They roast their own coffee and offer a range of single-origin and blend options.
- Nylon Coffee Roasters: This small coffee shop is located in Everton Park and is known for its high-quality coffee. They roast their own beans and offer a range of brews, including pour-over and espresso-based drinks.
- Tiong Hoe Specialty Coffee: This coffee roaster has been around since 1960 and is one of the oldest in Singapore. They roast their own beans and offer a range of blends and single-origin options.
The Rise of Specialty Coffee
In recent years, there has been a rise in specialty coffee in Singapore. This means that coffee shops and roasters are focusing on high-quality, single-origin beans and taking more care in the brewing process. Some of the best specialty coffee shops in Singapore include:
- Apartment Coffee: This small coffee shop is located in the heart of the city and is known for its high-quality coffee. They offer a range of brews, including pour-over and espresso-based drinks.
- Bearded Bella: This coffee shop is located in the trendy neighbourhood of Tiong Bahru and is known for its high-quality coffee and food. They offer a range of brews, including pour-over and espresso-based drinks.
- Old Hen Coffee Bar: This coffee shop is located in the hip neighbourhood of Farrer Park and is known for its high-quality coffee and food. They offer a range of brews, including pour-over and espresso-based drinks.
Coffee Culture in Neighbourhoods
Singapore has a rich coffee culture that is evident in its neighbourhoods. Each neighbourhood has its own unique coffee shops and roasters, and exploring them can be a great way to get a taste of the local culture. Some of the best neighbourhoods for coffee in Singapore include:
- Tiong Bahru: This neighbourhood is known for its hip coffee shops and roasters, including Tiong Hoe Specialty Coffee and Bearded Bella.
- Bukit Timah: This neighbourhood is home to some of the best coffee shops in Singapore, including Atlas Coffeehouse and Sarnies.
- Tanjong Pagar: This neighbourhood is known for its high-quality coffee shops, including PPP Coffee and Alchemist.
In conclusion, Singapore’s coffee scene is thriving, with a wide range of coffee shops and roasters to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a high-quality specialty brew or a classic cup of kopi, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. So grab a cup of coffee and start exploring!
A Guide to Coffee Types and Tastes
From Espresso to Flat White: Coffee Varieties
When you visit a coffee shop in Singapore, you’ll be greeted with a wide variety of coffee options. Espresso is a popular choice, made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans. A shot of espresso is the foundation of many popular coffee drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. Flat white is another popular choice, made by combining espresso with steamed milk. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavour, you may enjoy a ristretto, which is made with less water than a traditional espresso shot.
For those looking for a more unique coffee experience, specialty coffee shops offer a variety of options. Single-origin beans, such as those from Colombia or Kenya, offer a distinct flavour profile based on the location where they were grown. Cold brew coffee is another popular option, made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time. This results in a smooth, less acidic coffee that is perfect for hot days.
Understanding Coffee Flavours and Roasts
Coffee flavours can vary greatly depending on the type of beans used and the roast level. Lighter roasts tend to have a brighter, more acidic flavour, while darker roasts have a more robust, bitter flavour. Some coffee shops offer flavoured lattes, such as lavender or blueberry, which can add a unique twist to your coffee experience.
When it comes to pairing coffee with food and desserts, it’s important to consider the flavour profile of both. Lighter roasts tend to pair well with pastries and sweets, while darker roasts pair well with heartier dishes. If you’re looking for a unique coffee and dessert pairing, try an affogato, which is made by pouring espresso over a scoop of ice cream.
Pairing Coffee with Food and Desserts
Coffee can be a great accompaniment to food and desserts, but it’s important to consider the flavour profiles of both. Lighter roasts tend to pair well with pastries and sweets, while darker roasts pair well with heartier dishes. If you’re looking for a unique coffee and dessert pairing, try an affogato, which is made by pouring espresso over a scoop of ice cream.
If you’re a coffee aficionado, you may enjoy experimenting with different brewing methods at home. Homeground Coffee Roasters and Round Boy Roasters are two popular options in Singapore for purchasing high-quality coffee beans. Maxi Coffee Bar offers a unique coffee experience with their Magic coffee, which is made with condensed milk and coconut milk. Wicked offers a variety of specialty lattes, including a cereal milk latte and a matcha latte.
Whether you’re a fan of espressos, lattes, or filter coffee, there’s a coffee variety and roast level that’s perfect for you. With so many options available in Singapore, it’s easy to find a coffee shop that caters to your unique tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top-rated coffee shops in Singapore?
If you’re looking for a great coffee shop in Singapore, you’re in luck. Some of the top-rated coffee shops in the city include Common Man Coffee Roasters, Bacha Coffee, and Generation Coffee Roasters. Each of these coffee shops offers a unique experience, with a range of specialty coffees and delicious treats to enjoy.
Where can I find a café with a stunning view in Singapore?
If you’re looking for a café with a stunning view in Singapore, you might want to check out the Marina Bay Sands hotel. The hotel’s rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city skyline, and is a great spot to enjoy a cup of coffee or a cocktail. Other great options include The Fabulous Baker Boy, which is located in a beautiful park, and The Coffee Academics, which has several locations throughout the city.
Which café in Singapore offers the best local coffee brands?
If you’re looking for the best local coffee brands in Singapore, you might want to check out the Traditional Kopi Stations at Alliance Coffee Singapore. These stations offer a range of traditional coffee blends that are popular with locals and visitors alike. Other great options include Ya Kun Kaya Toast, which is known for its delicious kaya toast and coffee, and Toast Box, which offers a range of local coffee blends.
Who are the leading coffee shop operators in Singapore?
There are several leading coffee shop operators in Singapore, including Common Man Coffee Roasters, Bacha Coffee, and Generation Coffee Roasters. Each of these operators has a strong reputation for quality, and offers a range of specialty coffees and delicious treats.
What makes Bacha Coffee stand out in Singapore’s coffee scene?
Bacha Coffee is known for its unique approach to coffee, which focuses on using only the highest quality beans and roasting them in small batches. The coffee shop also offers a range of exotic tea blends, as well as a selection of delicious pastries and snacks. Bacha Coffee’s beautiful decor and friendly staff make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Can you recommend a cosy coffee shop near central Singapore?
If you’re looking for a cosy coffee shop near central Singapore, you might want to check out The Book Café. This charming café is located in a beautiful heritage building, and offers a range of delicious coffees, teas, and snacks. Other great options include Tiong Bahru Bakery, which is known for its delicious croissants and pastries, and The Coffee Academics, which has several locations throughout the city.