We haven’t been this excited about a new cafe in a while, until Simplicité by Fresh Fruits Lab came along. This new Parisian-style cafe in the East of Singapore was previously Fresh Fruits Lab, and recently underwent a major revamp.

Staying at the top of their game and always slaying, the owner—who is our good friend—strives to bring diners value-for-money quality fare in a relaxing atmosphere. Its menu offers a range of modern European favourites, with a good selection of mocktails and cocktails too. Fans of Fresh Fruits Lab will also be happy to know that they have retained several popular dishes on the menu.

Let’s just say they are a Parisian-style cafe in the day, and a laid-back neighbourhood bar at night. Simplicité by Fresh Fruits Lab is definitely our of our new favourite cafes in the East of Singapore.

Simplicité’s spanking new space is decked in monochrome colours and is very Instagram-worthy; every corner is a possible photo spot. French rattan chairs line the outdoors and that’s where you can enjoy a nice meal with your furkids at this pet-friendly cafe.

What we love about Simplicité by Fresh Fruits Lab:

• Chic Parisian-style cafe in the East of Singapore
• Pet-friendly cafe where you can bring your furkids along for a meal
• Affordable beer and cocktails—S$10 Asashi draft
• Amazing French-style Duck Confit which is perfectly-executed
• S$10 Angel Hair Pasta

The food is impressive! You know how some cafes only look good “on the outside”, but their food is mediocre, and you’d never return after taking your OOTDs? This won’t be the case at Simplicite, we can guarantee that.

Highlights include Angel Hair Pasta (S$10), Crabmeat Aglio Olio (S$19), Duck Confit (S$28), Salmon Meunière, French Bone-in Pork Loin with Garlic Butter Herb (S$20), Smashed Avocado on Brioche with Poached Eggs (S$16).

There is a S$10 Angel Hair Pasta under the appetizer menu that you have to try, too. Adorned with edible flowers, this elegant dish looks too pretty to be eaten.

On its menu, our favourite is the Duck Confit (S$28). In one glance, it may look pricey for a cafe, but actually, you really have to order this. What you would get is a perfectly-executed French-style Duck Confit.

Featuring a big and fat drumstick, the Duck Confit is so close to what you would get in France—crispy and salty skin, fork tender meat, accompanied with creamy mash and grilled vegetables. Parfait!

Simplicité by Fresh Fruits Lab serves brunch until 3pm daily and they are affordably priced between S$14 to S$18. The brunch options include Messy Breakfast (S$18), Eggs Benedict (S$15), and Brioche French Toast (S$15).

Smashed Avo (S$16) may be a common brunch dish, but Simplicité’s rendition is definitely not common. Served with a poached egg and mint sauce atop a thick slice of brioche, this dish is a clear winner. The toasted brioche was so buttery and good, we were tempted to ask for an extra slice!

Anyone remembers the super popular FFL Burger? If you’ve missed it, or haven’t tried it, Simplicité has refined this bestselling dish and it is now simply known as the Double Cheeseburger (S$20). It is better and bigger than before, with two juicy patties now!

Simplicité also has a wide array of drinks—from coffee, mocktails to cocktails, everything was a sight to behold. The Rose Latte won our hearts with its aesthetics and flavour.

You can also get a pint of Asahi draft at only S$10, while cocktails start from S$14. Be sure to order the signature La Simplicite (S$16) cocktail which comes with quite a show. We won’t spoil it for you, just get ready to take more photos and videos of the beautiful gin & tonic.

If you are just looking for a space for a simple midday perk-me-up, get yourself a basket of assorted Simplicite Bakes (S$10.5)—which includes Pain Au Chocolat, Croissant, Orange Snail, Raspberry Claw, Blueberry Braid, Apple Braid—a cup of latte, and pretend you are in Paris.

Simplicité by Fresh Fruits Lab
351 Changi Rd, Singapore 419818
Tel: +65 6677 6741

Located at Marine Cove in East Coast Park, East Coast Commune is a family-friendly cafe that serves speciality coffee, cold pressed juices, hearty sandwiches, fresh bakes, natural wines and craft beers.

One of the most beautiful cafes in Singapore, it is a great hangout spot which is worth travelling to East Coast Park for.

What we like about East Coast Commune:

• Beautiful cafe with a high ceiling and lots of potted plants
• Family-friendly cafe with an indoor play area and baby changing room
• A space that is perfect for all ages—families, couples, friends and kids
• Reasonably-priced pasta, sandwiches and brunch food
• Great location at East Coast Park (just next to McDonald’s)

The name reflects its intention to be a gathering spot for all ages—there’s something for everyone here. The kids can have fun at the indoor play area while the adults can enjoy a leisure brunch with a cup of coffee, or a craft beer or two.

East Coast Commune’s menu features a selection of Sourdough Sandwiches (S$11), Pasta (S$19), The Brekkie (S$18), Fried Chicken & Waffle (S$18) and Fresh Sourdough Waffle (S$12).

Classic sweet waffles (S$12) with ice cream, whipped cream, maple syrup, icing sugar.

Cappuccino (S$5)

Baby changing room

We love the vibe of East Coast Commune and we will definitely be back soon!

East Coast Commune
1000 ECP, #01-03, Singapore 449876

Throw a stone in any direction in Singapore and chances are, it’ll land on a cafe. It’s official, Singaporeans are mad about cafes—and we’re only getting madder. But gone are the days where cafes used to be places offering people a respite from the hustle and bustle, to catch up on reading or simply to lounge about in the comfort of good company, a nice warm beverage and a light snack to match.

Nowadays, the appeal of hipster cafes is a tad different. It’s all about the aesthetics, the so-called ’wow factor’ and whether or not certain qualities—be it the food, drinks or interior—are worthy of the ‘gram’ or not.

It’s times like these where one really should know where to find a nice quiet cafe, one devoid of the hipster crowd, the noise and simply a place that offers a conducive space to work, read or lounge about. Here is our list of 10 quiet cafes to get lost in a good book without distractions.

% ARABICA CHIP BEE GARDENS

Like all their other outlets, % Arabica Chip Bee Gardens is decked out in its signature clean and minimalistic white interior. The shop space is also more spacious and less crowded as compared to their other outlets at Arab Street and 313@Somerset and it has both air-conditioned seating as well as an al fresco area.

% Arabica Chip Bee Gardens is also the only % Arabica outlet in the world to have a food menu which has been carefully considered and crafted to pair well with % Arabica’s skillfully brewed cuppas, so you know that you’ll be in for a treat.

44 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-58
Singapore 278116
Tel: +65 6261 4516
Sun to Thu: 8am – 6pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

BAKER’S BENCH BAKERY

This artisanal neighbourhood bakery along Bukit Pasoh Road churns out stellar bakes and gourmet sandwiches. From sticky cinnamon rolls to twice-baked croissants, they’ve got everything you need for a dignified brunch.

Caffeine junkies, not to worry, they also have a respectable selection of coffee brews and tea beverages.

Their interior brags of elegant Scandinavian vibes, replete with muted greens and lush plants. It’s the perfect backdrop for a peaceful getaway.

6 Bukit Pasoh Rd
Singapore 089820
Wed – Mon: 8.30am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Outram Park

BRAWN & BRAINS

Tucked away in the iconic former Singapore Badminton Hall, Brawn & Brains’ clean interior allows for ample natural light to stream in. Visitors can look forward to fresh bakes, coffee, as well as scrumptious lunch options here. Avoid visiting them during lunchtime because the cafe packs quite a crowd then.

100 Guillemard Road
#01-02, Singapore Badminton Hall
Singapore 399718
Tel: +65 6348 0501
(Closed on Mondays)
Tue to Sun: 8.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

GROUP THERAPY

Fans of Group Therapy Coffee no longer have to travel to the CBD area for their Roasted Almond Latte. Its second outlet at Katong V Singapore is armed with the same laidback ambience and is considerably quieter.

The menu is slightly different from the original outlet at Duxton Road, but their promise of comfort food at affordable prices for the masses still stands. If you’re looking for a productive or meditative afternoon in the comfort of a warm dim cafe, Group Therapy is your best bet.

30 East Coast Road
Katong V #01-11
Singapore 428751
(Closed on Mondays)
Daily: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Eunos / Paya Lebar

JIMMY MONKEY CAFE AND BAR

Tucked away in a tranquil neighbourhood in One-North, Jimmy Monkey is known for their fantastic coffee blends. With the help of their state-of-the-art coffee machines, every sip of their brews is sheer indulgence at its best and make for a fantastic pick-me-up on any day.

#01-51 One-North Residences,
9 One-north Gateway,
Singapore 138643
Tel: +65 6777 8470
Daily: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: One North

LOOKSEE LOOKSEE

We all know how disgustingly humid Singapore’s weather can be, and more so especially if you’re wandering through Haji Lane. But fret not, because Looksee Looksee is the quintessential refuge for cafe hoppers and book lovers alike.

This gorgeous reading room cum tea salon is dressed in pretty pastels fit for a princess. They have plenty of books for browsing if you’d like, you can actually bring the books you fancy home!

267 Beach Road,
Singapore 199545
Tel: +65 6338 8035
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 11am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Nicoll Highway

ONE MAN COFFEE

One Man Coffee is a specialty coffee concept that focuses on the art of the espresso. They share the premise with French eatery, Garçons, which operates in the evening once the humble coffee shop closes.

As stunning as their humble brews and latte art is, what we appreciate even more is the peace and quiet we get here during non-peak hours. Surrounded by the cafe’s chill music and occasional hissing of the espresso machine’s steamer spout, One Man Coffee is one of our favourite hideouts on a relaxing afternoon.

215R Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574349
Tel: +65 9658 1685
Daily: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Marymount

THE BOOK CAFE

If peace and quiet are what you’re looking for then The Book Cafe is your best bet. There is a diversified range of reading materials available here—several hundred local and foreign books, magazines and newspapers—all free for your reading pleasure.

Their all-day breakfast line-up is simple yet hearty nonetheless and there are many couches indoors, allowing you to simply chill the afternoon away in comfort.

#01-02, 20 Martin Road,
Seng Kee Building,
Singapore 239070
Tel: +656887 5430
Daily: 8.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

THE BRAVERY

Pancake lovers, you have every reason to rejoice! The Bravery Cafe—one of our favourite halal cafes—serves possibly the tastiest and fluffiest pancakes in Singapore. The cafe’s renowned Pancakes Stack features a triple stack of fluffy pancakes topped with caramelised bananas and a dollop of ricotta cheese, and is drizzled generously with golden syrup.

Once you’ve demolished that, feel free to fall into the serene embrace of the place with a cup of their signature Lavender Latte.

Avoid lunchtime if you want to spend some quality peaceful time alone. The Bravery is usually relatively quiet for the rest of the day.

66 Horne Road
Tel: +65 9388 2973
Mon, Wed, Thu & Sun: 9am – 6pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 9.30pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Lavender

THE MOON

Seated in the heart of Chinatown, The Moon is a great refuge from the tourist-saturated streets. This gorgeous book cafe calls out to our inner hippy spirits with its charming Bohemian vibes, replete with earthy tones and exotic rugs. Sit back with a cup of their specialty coffee or a slice of cake.

Their abode houses a ton of good reads that you can browse through. But note that the books are limited to within the reading area only!

37 Mosque St
Singapore 059515
Sun – Tues: 11am – 9pm
Wed: 11.30am – 9pm
Thurs: 11am – 9pm
Fri – Sat: 11am – 12am
Nearest Station: Chinatown

Hardly anyone enjoys the idea of returning to work on Monday after an entire weekend of pure relaxation and fun. But such is life, isn’t it?

Thankfully, there are more ways than one to alleviate said Monday blues and one of the best ways we know how is to treat ourselves to a solid cafe meal. Taking into consideration the full-works, from artisanal coffees, teas to a plethora of over-the-top cafe grub, if there was ever a way to cheer us up on a dull workday, those would surely help.

Here is our guide to 20 cafes in Singapore that open on Mondays for you to treat yourself on a dreadful, soul-crushing Monday.

% ARABICA

While % Arabica is known for its stellar cups of coffee, the brand’s venture at Chip Bee Gardens has introduced a food section to their menu so you can enjoy some scrumptious nosh that pairs perfectly with their soothing cups of coffee. This is also the only % Arabica outlet in the world to have a food menu.

44 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-58
Singapore 278116
Tel: +65 6261 4516
Sun to Thu: 8am – 6pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

CLINTON STREET BAKING COMPANY

Hailing all the way from New York City, Clinton Street Baking Co. is where you can look forward to a range of classic New York-style brunch fare including the esteemed Chicken & Waffles (S$21++) which features huge pieces of crisp-skinned, tender chicken nestled atop a fluffy buttermilk waffle.

Should you be looking for a sweeter treat to conclude your meal, the Pancakes with Warm Maple Butter (S$19++) is another signature dish of their that you ought to try.

31 Purvis Street
Singapore 188608
Mon to Thu: 8.30am – 6pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 9pm
Sun: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Bugis/Bras Basah

EARLYBIRD CAFE

Earlybird Cafe is one of the newest additions to the slew of cafes that Jalan Pinang is home to. Minimalist exterior and aesthetically-pleasing bird-themed interior aside, Earlybird Cafe serves quality grub that is worth forgoing your diet for.

Their Chicken and Pancakes (S$19) may just be enough to have you ditch chicken and waffles altogether—this dish really hits all the right chords in terms of flavour! Get their adorable Flower Pot Tiramisu (S$8.50) to end of your meal on a sweet note.

17 Jalan Pinang
Singapore 199149
Mon to Thu: 8am – 9pm
Fri: 8am – 9.30pm
Sat: 9am – 9.30pm
Sun: 9am – 8pm
Tel: +65 9788 6858
Nearest Station: Bugis

FIVE OARS COFFEE ROASTERS

Boasting an aesthetically-pleasing botanical interior, impeccable service, amazing coffee and plenteous food offerings, Five Oars Coffee Roasters is definitely a new café in Singapore worth checking out.

Five Oars offers a tantalizing range of brunch fare—from interesting spins such as the Mentaiko Royale (S$21) to sweeter options such as the Valrhona Chocolate Pancakes (S$19.50). Coffee-goers will not regret getting a cuppa coffee as an accompaniment to their meal as they source their coffee beans from Ethiopia and Brazil.

39 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088462
Daily: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

KEONG SAIK BAKERY

This is where you can find traditional, nostalgic yet contemporary bakes all under a single roof. The walls of Keong Saik Bakery are covered in a wallpaper that speaks about the heritage of the Keong Saik area which might just sweep you over with a sense of nostalgia.

Their menu mainly comprises a range of crusty croissants, bread and fluffy cakes. The Sor Hei—a black and white Danish pastry—would go highly recommended if you are looking for a light bite. Otherwise, opt for their all-day breakfast set which comes with a cup of coffee or tea, 2 soft-boiled eggs and a bun of your choice.

41 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089146
Tel: +65 6909 3199
Daily: 8am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Outram Park

KURASU

Kurasu is a hidden gem located within Odeon Towers that serves speciality coffee from selected roasters around Japan. Originally starting out as an online homeware store, the brand shifted its focus to coffee and opened its first physical store in Kyoto in 2016.

Their Singapore outlet serves the same lineup of coffee as their branch in Kyoto, so you get to taste their superbly aromatic brews in our sunny shores. Matcha lovers must get a cup of their Matcha Latte, which promises to satisfy even the most discerning of taste buds.

331 North Bridge Road
#02-01, Odeon Towers
Singapore 188720
Mon to Fri: 9am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 6pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

POPPY POPS

This café situated on the rooftop of JEM in Jurong East will bewitch you with its charms. Furnished with modern elements including gorgeously lit bulbs and entwining vines, the cafe exudes a tranquil outdoor vibe perfect for a chill night out with your girlfriends.

Poppy Pops allows you to get creative and make your own DIY popsicles, where you can choose a topping and coating of your choice.

#06-03 JEM
52 Jurong Gateway Road
Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 6262 0339
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Jurong East

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TWENTY EIGHT CAFE

Decked with minimal white walls and whitewashed window grilles, this spacious and modern industrial-themed cafe is a hidden-gem situated within the folds of Wilkie Road away from the bustling city.

Fully equipped with plenty of charging ports around, we reckon that Twenty Eight Cafe is an ideal spot for one to get some work done while sipping on a cup of coffee. Their menu is rather simple, albeit limited, offering several brunch items that will definitely fill you up.

28 Wilkie Road
Singapore 228051
Tel: +65 9720 2828
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

DRIPS BAKERY CAFE

Drips Bakery Cafe has been around for years and it is one of the usual go-to spots people who love sweet, freshly baked tarts and bread.

No one leaves Drips Bakery Cafe without getting a taste of their speciality tarts. Their signatures include avocado tarts, berry tarts and salted caramel tarts. If you are looking for a heavier meal that is more filling, fret not as Drips Bakery Cafe also serves a range of brunch fare.

#01-05, 82 Tiong Poh Road
Singapore 160082
Tel: +65 6222 0400
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11am – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

THE BRAVERY CAFE

This Muslim-owned cafe situated just a stone’s throw away from Lavender MRT station is one that will impress you with their warm and intimate ambience coupled with tasty food. It is also one of the cafes in Singapore that provides a laptop-friendly environment for students and workers.

Their menu offers an extensive array of savoury treats, including all-day breakfast items such as the Bagel Set (S$14.50) and heartier mains such as steak and pasta dishes that are not overly expensive.

66 Horne Road
Singapore 209073
Tel: +65 9388 2973
Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun: 9am – 6pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 10pm
Closed on Tuesdays
Nearest Station: Lavender/ Bendemeer

THE LOKAL

The LoKal is an Australian Restaurant-Bar that aims to serve comfort house-made Aussie food to their guests. The kitchen is helmed by Aussie Chef Darren Farr, the mastermind behind the healthy and hearty brunches such as the Smashed Avocado with Ricotta and Steak & Eggs.

You can also look forward to a myriad of Australian wines, monthly beer specials and easy drinking cocktails at The LoKal’s bar.

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136 Neil Road
Singapore 088865
Tel: +65 6423 9918
Mon & Tue: 8am – 4pm
Wed to Fri: 8am – 10pm
Sat: 9am – 10pm
Sun: 9am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar/ Outram Park

TOBY’S ESTATE

Toby’s Estate Signature Café & Roastery at Rodyk Street is founder Toby Smith’s first venture outside of Australia, where a team of world-class coffee experts is dedicated to creating and serving remarkable coffee every day.

At Toby’s Estate, you can enjoy some of the best coffees from all over the world and explore the amazing tastes and aromas of their coffee through different brewing methods. The aroma of coffee simply draws you in!

8 Rodyk Street
Singapore 238216
Tel: +65 6636 7629
Daily: 7.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Fort Canning

DAPPER COFFEE

The swanky interior of Dapper Coffee at Amoy Street resembles a cool British pub. The coffee aroma that filled the air was alluring and we were thankful for the good range of different coffee to choose from.

73A Amoy Street
Second floor
Singapore 069892
Tel: +65 9005 4790
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat: 8am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

FLAVOUR FLINGS

Nestled in Hougang, just a short 5-minute walk from Kovan’s McDonald’s, this humble cafe is the birthplace of Singapore’s nationwide salted egg yolk phenomenon. Their menu focuses primarily on brunch fare with eggs being the centrepiece of most of their dishes.

If you’re keen on melty, decadent cheese, then do try their Beef Steak with Cheese Raclette.

Blk 121 Hougang Avenue 1
#01-1348
Singapore 530121
Tel: +65 6286 0051
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Mon, Thu to Sun: 11.30am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Wed: 11am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Hougang/Kovan

KITH CAFE

Perhaps one of the most popular home-grown cafes in Singapore is Kith Cafe. Having expanded to several parts of the island, you can find them everywhere now and for good reason.

Their menu offerings are stellar and their coffee is simply solid. Whether you hankering for pizza, pasta or a full-on breakfast platter, there’s bound to be something to tickle your fancy.

6 Raffles Boulevard
Marina Square #02-49
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 6352 4393
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

ONE MAN COFFEE

One Man Coffee is a speciality coffee concept that focuses on the art of extracting great coffee from fine coffee beans. We kid you not, their coffee is one of the best around.

But as stunning as their humble brews and latte art let us not forget about their sensational lineup of food as well. Their Gashaus Eggs and Berries French Toast come highly recommended and are perfect to have during brunch.

215R Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574349
Tel: +65 9658 1685
Mon, Wed to Sun: 9am – 5pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Marymount

Photo credit: SPRMRKT

SPRMRKT (CLUNY COURT)

Founded less than a decade ago at McCallum Street, homegrown brand SPRMRKT can now be found at Cluny Court right next to the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Diners can expect a menu of simple all-day-brunch delights as well as a myriad of fancier offerings.

We simply adore their Oven-Baked Eggs and various pasta offerings, but if you’re looking for something a healthier, you can consider one of their many wholesome SPRGRN Bowls too.

501 Bukit Timah Road,
02-13 Cluny Court,
Singapore 259760
Tel: +65 9736 4170
Mon to Thu: 8am – 8pm
Fri to Sun: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

THE POPULUS COFFEE & FOOD CO.

Opened by the folks behind Two Degrees North Coffee Co. and the now-defunct Department of Caffeine, The Populus Coffee & Food Co. is a hot favourite among Singaporeans for their good coffee and better food.

You see, The Populus Coffee & Food Co. is everything a good cafe should be—a neat decor with plants and natural sunlight, comprehensive food menu with wholesome meals and homemade desserts, and a brilliant cuppa.

146 Neil Road
Singapore 088875
Tel: +65 6635 8420
Mon to 9am – 7pm
Tue: 9am – 4pm
Wed to Fri: 9am – 10.30pm
Sat: 9.30am – 10.30pm
Sun: 9.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Outram Park

THE TIRAMISU HERO

Aptly named, The Tiramisu Hero is a cute yet heartwarming cafe tucked along the stretch of Tyrwhitt Road. Everything about this cafe screams cute and sweet, and this goes likewise for the amazing spread of savoury and sweets on their menu.

They serve one of the best Tiramisu in Singapore.

121 Tyrwhitt Road
Tel: +65 6292 5271
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Lavender

TWO BAKERS

Two Bakers is one of the few cafes that does its savoury dishes and desserts really well. The two chefs here are Le Cordon Bleu Paris-trained so you can be sure that their food here is of a pretty high standard.

88 Horne Road
Tel: +65 6293 0329
Mon to Thu: 8am – 6pm
Fri to Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Lavender