5 Must-Try Cafes in Singapore for Every Coffee Lover

Singapore may be small in size but its cafe scene is bursting with creativity, flavour, and charm. From hidden coffee roasters tucked in quiet corners to famous bakeries buzzing with brunch crowds, the Lion City’s cafes are perfect for lazy afternoons, weekend catch ups, or solo coffee breaks with a good book. If you are ready to explore some of the best spots Singapore has to offer, here are five must-try cafes for every coffee lover.

1.   Atlas Coffeehouse

Location: 6 Duke’s Road, Singapore 268886

Open Hours: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm daily

Tucked away in the Bukit Timah area, Atlas Coffeehouse has become a beloved spot for brunch enthusiasts and serious coffee drinkers alike. The cafe is run by the folks behind Assembly Coffee, known for their dedication to quality brews and hearty plates.

The spacious interior, with its warm lighting and minimalist industrial decor, makes it a comfortable place to settle in for a long chat or some quiet reading. Signature dishes include the Creamy Mushroom on Sourdough, Butterscotch Banana Pancakes, and Atlas Super Bowl packed with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a perfectly poached egg.

Their coffee menu features single-origin beans that rotate seasonally, so you can expect a rich, aromatic cup whether you like your coffee black or with milk. Many regulars rave about the smooth flat whites and the balanced pour-overs. Atlas gets busy during weekend brunch, so plan ahead if you prefer a quiet table.

2.   % Arabica Singapore

Location: Multiple outlets including 56 Arab Street and Jewel Changi AirportOpen Hours: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm daily (varies by outlet)

If you have a love for clean aesthetics and precision-brewed coffee, then % Arabica is a must-visit. Originally from Kyoto, this Japanese coffee brand has taken the world by storm with its iconic % logo, sleek white interiors, and consistently excellent coffee.

In Singapore, % Arabica has outlets in stylish neighbourhoods like Arab Street and the iconic Jewel Changi Airport. Each location is designed for maximum visual appeal, making it a favourite for both coffee lovers and Instagrammers alike.

They roast their beans in-house, sourcing high-quality Arabica beans from around the world. The result is a coffee menu that is simple yet deeply satisfying. Popular choices include the Cafe Latte, Spanish Latte for a sweeter twist, and their smooth drip coffees. Watching the skilled baristas pull perfect espresso shots on beautiful Slayer machines is part of the charm.

3.   Tiong Bahru Bakery

Location: 56 Eng Hoon Street, #01-70, Singapore 160056 (plus various outlets islandwide)

Open Hours: 7:30 am to 8:00 pm daily

No list of Singapore cafes is complete without the mention of Tiong Bahru Bakery, a beloved institution famous for its artisanal pastries and French-inspired bakes. Located in the charming heritage estate of Tiong Bahru, the flagship outlet is a cozy corner bustling with locals and tourists alike.

Tiong Bahru Bakery is best known for its buttery, flaky croissants which many claim are the best in Singapore. The Kouign-Amann, a caramelised Breton pastry, is another favourite that has won over countless hearts. Pair your pastry with their aromatic coffee, made with beans sourced from top producers and roasted locally.

What makes Tiong Bahru Bakery special is not just its delicious bakes but the nostalgic vibe of the neighbourhood. The cafe’s rustic wooden furniture, cheerful service, and the buzz of conversation make it the perfect place to slow down and watch the world go by.

4.   The Glasshouse

Location: CHIJMES, 30 Victoria Street, #01-03, Singapore 187996

Open Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm daily

For a cafe experience that feels like a garden retreat in the middle of the city, The Glasshouse at CHIJMES is hard to beat. Housed in a minimalist glasshouse structure surrounded by greenery, this cafe has a calming atmosphere that invites you to relax and linger.

The Glasshouse serves quality coffee sourced from local roasters and offers an impressive selection of toasts and sandwiches. Their Smashed Avocado Toast topped with cherry tomatoes and feta is a popular brunch choice, while the Smoked Salmon Tartine is equally satisfying. For drinks, their Cold Brew and Matcha Latte are crowd favourites, perfect for Singapore’s tropical climate.

The natural light streaming through the glass panels, combined with the stylish decor of potted plants and wooden accents, makes The Glasshouse a top pick for anyone looking to enjoy coffee in a beautiful setting.

5.   Nylon Coffee Roasters

Location: 4 Everton Park, #01-40, Singapore 080004

Open Hours: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday to Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday

When it comes to specialty coffee, Nylon Coffee Roasters is a pioneer in Singapore’s third-wave coffee scene. Nestled in the laid-back Everton Park neighbourhood, Nylon has built a loyal following for its dedication to sourcing, roasting, and brewing coffee with utmost care.

Nylon is a tiny, no-frills cafe with a big focus on quality. They work directly with farmers to source sustainable beans and roast small batches to bring out the unique flavours of each origin. The menu is straightforward but exceptional, featuring espressos, filter coffees, and seasonal blends.

Customers love the intimate vibe where baristas are always happy to chat about beans, brewing methods, or just life in general. If you are serious about your coffee and appreciate a purist approach, Nylon Coffee Roasters is an essential stop on your cafe-hopping list.

Final Step

Whether you are a dedicated coffee connoisseur or simply enjoy soaking in the cafe atmosphere with a pastry in hand, Singapore’s cafe scene has something for everyone. These five cafes, each with its own unique charm, showcase how diverse and passionate the city’s coffee culture is.

From Atlas Coffeehouse’s hearty brunch plates to Nylon Coffee Roasters’ meticulous beans, these cafes remind us that coffee is more than just a drink; it is an experience to savour. So, take a break from your busy day, grab a friend, and sip your way through some of Singapore’s best coffee spots. Who knows, you might just find your new favourite cafe tucked away in a quiet corner of this vibrant city.

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