Cafe-hopping is one of our favourite activities. We love to chill out at a new cafe with a cuppa in hand and sharing multiple plates of Instagram-worthy grubs with our friends to catch up.

To add to the perennial food debate between East and West of Singapore, here’s a complete guide of cafés in the West of Singapore that will give you a list of good excuses to travel there.

% ARABICA CHIP BEE GARDENS

Coffee aficionados in Singapore went absolutely crazy when popular Japanese coffee shop % Arabica came to Singapore in 2019. Now, they also have a store in the West at Chip Bee Gardens.

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

ARKADAS CAFE

Arkadas Cafe is a good place to visit if you find yourself sick of the usual eggs-and-toast  breakfast combo because this Turkish joint offers a variety of exotic flavours. Tuck into authentic creations such as hummus with pita bread, chicken kebab, and other Turkish sweet treats like baklava and créme caramel.

For your caffeine fix, they also serve a mean Turkish coffee that is sure to perk you up. A wide selection of teas is available but we highly recommend trying the coffee.

1 Fusionopolis View
Sandcrawler #01-02
Singapore 138577
Tel: +65 6466 9918
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: One-north

ATLAS COFFEEHOUSE

The sister cafe of Lunar Coffee Brewers, Atlas Coffeehouse is located just a few minutes away from Botanic Gardens MRT Station by foot. The first thing you will notice as you walk up to the front door is the floor to ceiling glass windows where visitors can sit by and people watch.

Atlas Coffeehouse is well known for its pancakes, especially the ATLAS Butterscotch Banana Pancake and Breakfast Strawberry Maple Pancake. There are other mains such as Poached Salmon and 18 Hour Slow Braised Pulled Pork served with Creamy Scrambled eggs and Streaky Bacon.

6 Duke’s Road
Singapore 268886
Tel: +65 6314 2674
Tue to Sun: 8am – 7pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

AWFULLY CHOCOLATE

The popular chocolatier Awfully Chocolate has a cafe outlet at JEM and here they have a  curated menu for cakes that are irresistibly good.

There’s Chocolate Espresso Cake, Salted Butterscotch Brownie and, for something cold, their Hei Ice Cream. Dessert after dinner is a must and because you’re spoilt for choice here, ask the staff for their quality recommendations.

50 Jurong Gateway Road #01-15
Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 6734 1530
Sun to Fri: 10am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 10am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Jurong East

BAKER & COOK

Nestled in the Greenwood Avenue neighbourhood, Baker & Cook is the brainchild of Baker Dean Brettschneider. The café has an assortment of jams, chutneys, cookies and homemade granola, apart from its range of freshly baked bread.

77 Hillcrest Road
Tel: +65 6469 8834
Daily: 7am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

Photo Credit: saltedtamago

BEANS & CREAM

Beans & Cream is said to be the Creamier of the West of Singapore with crispy and fluffy waffles that carry a hint of buttermilk fragrance. Pair them with gelato that comes in flavours such as mao shan wang and earl grey or get these cold scoops on individual cones for the perfect treat to beat the heat.

347 Bukit Batok Street 34, #01-260
Singapore 650347
Mon to Fri: 12:30pm – 9:30pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 9:30pm
Nearest Station: Bukit Gombak

BOK’S KITCHEN BY HIDDEN CHEFS

Bok’s Kitchen is a homey cafe situated along Boon Lay Avenue founded by the same team behind The Hidden Chefs which specialises in private dining arrangements.

Diners can expect a variety of mains such as filling rice bowls, breakfast items and sides, as well as a small selection of desserts and drinks. The casual atmosphere at Bok’s Kitchen makes it a great destination for westies to pop by for an affordable fuss-free meal with their family and friends.

Blk 216 Boon Lay Avenue, #01-01
Singapore 640216
Tel: +65 6920 8036
Tue to Fri: 11am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 9pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Lakeside

BREAD YARD

Bread Yard sprouted on campus in the early and inspiring days of the Singapore University of Technology and Design. It became quite the food icon of the university, drawing in crowds from outside the campus. In three years, the team made a decision to move out of the campus to gain wider access to the public.

At Bread Yard, bread is handcrafted with ancient Japanese and European techniques served with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, leavened pancakes, and aromatic drip coffees in a rustic and fast-casual setting.

1 Fusionopolis Pl,
Singapore 138522
Tel: +65 9773 5318
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat: 8am – 2.30am
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: One-north

CAMACA 

Hankering for a sweet treat but need to watch your sugar intake? Engage in Camaca, a sugar-free dessert cafe at King Albert Park that has a variety of desserts that taste good even without the added sugar.

We recommend getting their gelato which features all-natural flavours such as Pomelo Tea, Lychee Rose & Musang King Durian. Aside from ice cream, they also have a selection of pastries and a wide selection of single-origin coffees.

9 King Albert Park #01-11 / #01-12
Singapore 598332
Tel: +65 6904 3811
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: King Albert’s Park

Photo Credit: Choupinette Singapore 

CHOUPINETTE 

For a taste of France and its idyllic countryside, Choupinette is a charming little French bakery tucked away in a corner along Bukit Timah Road near Coronation Plaza. The scent of their bestselling freshly baked croissants and sourdough bread fills the air as you enter the shop. Bag them with some danishes and macarons and stay for lunch because their Eggs Benedict’s are superb.

607 Bukit Timah Rd
Singapore 269708
Tel: +65 6466 0613
Tue-Sat: 8am – 7pm
Sun: 8am – 5pm
Mon: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

CARPENTER & COOK

A vintage home store and artisan bakery café at Lorong Kilat, Carpenter and Cook is furnished with carefully curated decor for the vibes. What you have to try is their signature Passionfruit Meringue Tart, and pair that with a pot of fragrant tea to complete your afternoon.

19 Lorong Kilat, #01-06
Singapore 598120
Tel: +65 6463 3648
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World

CROWN BAKERY & CAFÉ

If you are heading to Crown Bakery & Café with a friend, The Crown Breakfast is good for two. On a large wooden chopping board lies slow-braised oxtail meat, chicken sausage, Canadian back bacon, the Crown Puff Pastry and salad. What you should also not miss is the wide array of European-style bread that are freshly baked daily.

557 Bukit Timah Road, #01-03
Crown Centre
Singapore 269694
Tel: +65 6463 3066
Daily: 7.30am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

DAILY SCOOP @CHIP BEE GARDEN

An ice-cream parlour known for an extensive variety of ice cream flavours, The Daily Scoop churns out every batch of ice-cream in-house on a daily basis made using local fresh ingredients. From the exotic Mao Shan Wang durian to Nutty Macadamia, The Daily Scoop rotates their flavours on a weekly basis so that customers will never get bored.

73 Jalan Merah Saga
#01-78, Chip Bee Gardens
Singapore 278115
Tel: +65 6475 3128
Mon to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri to Sat: 11am – 10.30pm
Sun: 2pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

D’GOOD CAFE

Cute latte art, inexpensive food, and a convenient location are the reasons why D’Good Cafe have been a hit amongst students since their opening in the Holland Village neighbourhood. Check out the different interior designs on each level of the three-storey cafe, in which their third level is a rooftop alfresco dining area.

273 Holland Avenue
#02-01/02
Singapore 278992
Tel: +65 6219 9807
Daily: 10am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

Photo Credit: dripsbakersplayground

DRIP’S BAKERS PLAYGROUND

Drip’s Bakers Playground is the go-to for tea time tarts. There’s a whole range to choose from–go for their zesty Lemon Meringue Tart for something refreshing or a White Chocolate Mascarpone Tart that has both custard and crunch.

Be there for Quiche Tuesdays for a free coffee or tea when you order a quiche or head there for Waffle Wednesday for a free scoop of ice-cream. They have a kid’s menu too if you’re planning on bringing the little ones.

109 Clementi Street 11, #01-05
Singapore 120109
Tel: +65 6776 0400
Mon, Wed – Sat: 8am – 8pm
Sun & Tue: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

DUTCH COLONY COFFEE CO.

You will never guess that Dutch Colony Coffee started out as a coffee shop at PasarBella. The successful café now has its own coffee roastery and academy at Defu Lane, as well as a full-fledged café at Frankel Avenue.

For those who are interested to learn more about coffee, Dutch Colony Coffee Co. organises coffee-related events – from coffee degustation sessions to barista appreciation workshops and latte art workshops – regularly.

1 Fusionopolis Way, #01-01
Singapore 138632
Tel: +65 6914 9688
Daily: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sixth Avenue

EAGLEWINGS LOFT

EagleWings Loft is a new nautical-themed café and bar at the King Albert Park Residences Mall. This humble establishment by EagleWings — a popular luxury yacht charter in Singapore — features a cosy yet sophisticated ambience that is perfect for a weekend family brunch or any typical work-week meal.

9 King Albert Park, #01-14/33/34/56/57
King Albert Park Residences Shopping Mall
Tel: +65 6264 7787
Mon to Thu: 10am – 10.30pm
Fri: 10:30am – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 8:30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: King Albert Park

FLAGWHITE 

Feel enough like an adult to want brunch food at night? Fancy some quality brews and sweets during the weekend in a pleasant and conducive environment? Head down to FlagWhite, a cafe that’s situated at Beauty World. At FlagWhite, you can expect the food to be homemade with love. All their sweets are crafted in-house, all dishes are freshly prepared, and the beans and leaves from their brews tend to be sourced from local brands.

FREDO’S BAKER 

Settled snugly in Sunset Way is Fredo’s Baker. The cafe has a delectable selection of pastries, cakes and tarts that are made with quality ingredients and the utmost passion from its pastry chef and owner, Alfred Chan.

We especially loved their Yuzu Meringue Tart. While the yuzu creamy custard can come across overtly sour on its own, the sweetness of the meringue helped to counteract its tartness, which resulted in an all-round refreshing after-taste.

Block 109, #01-05
Clementi Street 11
Singapore 120109
Mon to Sat: 8am – 8pm
Sun & Public Holiday: 8am – 6pm
Nearest station: Clementi

HUGGS COFFEE @GALAXIS

Nestled within Galaxis, Huggs Coffee is another coffee joint where you can satisfy your caffeine needs. Presenting artisanal coffee originating from places like Columbia, Brazil, and Vietnam, coffee aficionados will be spoilt for choice. Huggs Coffee caters more to the office crowd, which is why it is not uncommon to spot the suits at several office districts in Singapore. Pair your freshly brewed cuppa with one of their freshly baked pastries as well for something a little more substantial!

1 Fusionopolis Way, 01-18/19
Singapore 138632
Tel: +65 8268 3762
Mon to Fri: 7am – 5pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: One-north

ICE CREAM MAN AND FRIENDS

Ice Cream Man And Friends is a few bus stops away from Lakeside MRT Station. One of the plus points about having dessert at this circus-themed cafe is that they charge a fixed price per scoop even for premium flavours. They’ve recently expanded their menu to include savoury meals too!

399 Yung Sheng Road, #01-23
Taman Jurong Shopping Centre
Singapore 610399
Tel: +65 9636 0278
Daily: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Lakeside

JIMMY MONKEY

One of the best coffee shops in the West of Singapore, Jimmy Monkey at One-North Residences sources its coffee beans from independent farms from all over the world. Their menu also includes delectables ranging from homemade dips and rustic pasta dishes to desserts such as luscious cakes and premium ice-creams. This is the spot to enjoy a great meal with a Sauvignon Blanc and a little antipasto on the side!

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

KARA CAFE & DESSERT BAR 

Situated right next to Coronation Plaza, KARA Cafe & Dessert Bar is a cafe and dessert bar by the team behind Sogurt. It takes over the former space of Sogurt and this is where you can enjoy a splendid array of delicious food in a warm and welcoming environment. To top it off, you will be dining in a beautiful space decorated by tropical foliage and imaginary creatures with art by Mark Wee.

671 Bukit Timah Road,
Singapore 269718
Tel: +65 6468 8940
Mon to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

KINDRED FOLK 

Nestled in the KAP Residence Mall along King Albert Park, Kindred Folk is a charming double-storey ice cream café that provides a relaxing respite where families and friends can gather and indulge in an array of comforting, homemade recipes.

Created by an ice-cream lover for ice-cream lovers, you can find a rotating selection of colourful and unique flavours perfect for a hot, sunny day. Beyond that, the menu also features a variety of fusion pasta and finger food such as Tom Yum Aglio Olio and Fried Chicken Drumlets.

9 King Albert Park
KAP Mall, #01-09
Singapore 598223
Tel: +65 6928 3043
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 0pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: King Albert Park

LEE’S CONFECTIONERY

Lee’s Confectionery is tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood of Jurong East and is helmed by Lee Yin Quan who has been running a one-man show here. He sells elegant patisseries that are made-to-order to ensure that the original texture of each pastry isn’t lost to sitting in its moisture and to keep it from the subtle staleness from baking in batches. 

His latest collection includes Puff (S$7) which is earl grey-infused kaya clasped between pastry puffs, as well as Tart (S$8) which had a crisp tart shell lined with almonds and layered with citrusy cream.

343 Jurong East Street 31, #01-59
Singapore 600343
Tel: +65 9183 8447
Thu, Sun – Tue: 12pm – 6pm
Fri – Sat: 12pm – 10pm
(Closed on Wednesdays)
Nearest Station: Chinese Garden

LYNN’S CAKES

The sweet treats from Lynn’s Cakes & Coffee will appeal strongly to those with a sweet tooth. Expect to indulge in Carrot Cake, Red Velvet Cake, Chocolate Cake, Cheesecake, and Rainbow Cake which are all freshly baked on-site. Lynn’s Cakes is also halal-certified which explains its popularity among our Muslim friends.

11 Eng Kong Terrace
Singapore 598983
Tel: +65 6314 2886
Tue to Sun: 11am – 7pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Beauty World

Photo Credit: monkicafeholland

MONKI CAFÉ

For a Taiwanese-Western menu with a Singaporean twist, Monki Café offers a myriad of savoury nosh and icy desserts. This super under-the-radar eatery is cheery with a bright yellow theme. Highlights include Braised Pork Rice or Kou Rou Bao for lighter bites.

To beat the heat and have a change from ice-cream, try they Durian Pengat Coconut Snowflake Dessert that’s complimented with gula Melaka syrup or a Monki Double flavour snowflake dessert.

43 Holland Drive, #01-41
Singapore 270043
Tel: +65 6258 8112
Tue to Sun: 10am – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Holland Village

OH MY MANGO

Located on the first level of Gek Poh Shopping Centre in Jurong West, OH MY MANGO is a  dessert cafe that breathes new life into the somewhat run-down neighbourhood shopping centre.

Specialising in Thai-inspired sweet treats, their menu boasts more than 40 different items from desserts to colourful beverages and even assorted Shibuya toasts that are available in both sweet and savoury varieties.

762 Jurong West Street 75
#01-334 Gek Poh Shopping Centre
Singapore 640762
Tel: +65 9066 0426
Daily: 12.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Pioneer

Photo Credit: Miam Miam

MIAM MIAM

Conveniently located in Westgate, Miam Miam is a fusion of Japanese and French influences. Many go to this restaurant mainly for their gorgeous and tasty desserts such as Signature French Toast (S$10.80++), Original Pancake (S$8.80++) and Oven Baked Vanilla French Soufflé (S$9.80++).

3 Gateway Drive, #01-21/22
Westgate
Singapore 608532
Tel: +65 6369 9008
Sun to Thu: 11.30am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Jurong East

MY LITTLE ICE-CREAM SHOP BY PGFN

The ice-cream parlour’s clean and spacious environment makes it a great place to chill with your friends or to hang out after work.

Helmed by the same team behind popular Pandan Gardens Fishball Noodles, this quaint cafe situated within Ayer Rajah Community Club offers waffles with ice cream at very affordable prices.

150 Pandan Gardens
#01-07 Ayer Rajah Community Club
Singapore 609335
Tel: +65 8877 6660
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Jurong East

OLLA SPECIALITY COFFEE 

Olla Specialty Coffee is a mobile coffee company that has been offering their services to events as well as operating coffee bars for companies, and they eventually found a home at Sunset Way. Occupying a small shop space under an HDB block, this hole-in-the-wall café is the newest addition to the trove of eateries and bakeries in the neighbourhood.

Although this cosy café focuses mainly on coffee, a selection of teas, chocolate, matcha and chai is offered as well. What’s more, the drinks here are priced at super wallet-friendly prices and you can also pair your drinks with some buttermilk waffles and pastries too.

109 Clementi Street 11 #01-03
Singapore 120109
Daily: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

ONE MAN COFFEE

This extension branch of One Man Coffee serves the usual cafe beverages and some pastries. Small in size, this outlet serves as more of a grab-and-go for office workers working nearby in need of a solid cuppa. We highly recommend trying their Nitro Cold Brew. It is surprisingly smooth and easy to drink with a subtle fruity note at the end, great for hot afternoons.

4 Fusionopolis Way, Kinesis #01-15,
Singapore 138635
Tel: +65 8181 2479
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: one-north

PADDY HILLS

If you are looking for a place to capture beautiful, artisanal food, you will find that at Paddy Hills. The place is an Instagrammer’s heaven with good food and a beautiful restaurant interior.

Their menu boasts a wide selection of beautifully-plated nosh perfect for your brunch affair. Make sure to order up a serving f their Berry Muffcakes (S$22), which sees pillowy light hotcakes decorated in an assortment of berries.

38 South Buona Vista Road
Singapore 118164
Tel: +65 6479 0800
Mon to Wed: 10:30am – 5pm
Thu & Fri: 10:30am – 5pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sat: 9am – 5pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sun: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Haw Par Villa

POPPY POPS

Most of us who live in the West should have already visited JEM, but how many of us are actually familiar with JEM inside and out? If you think the fifth storey is the highest level in JEM, think again.

Poppy Pops is a hidden eatery that sits on the sixth floor and is only accessible through the food court or the breezy rooftop located at the top of the shopping mall. If you are seeking a place with tranquil ambience, sunlight and pleasant bites whenever you feel peckish, take a seat and grab a Poppy Classic along with the café’s Maple Butter Waffle.

52 Jurong Gateway Road
#06-03, JEM
Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 6262 0339
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Jurong East

REVELRY

A waffle specialty café tucked away in Lorong Kilat, Revelry is where you ought to go for your waffles fix. It boasts a lively yet enticing vibe that illuminates the entire street.

If Chicken & Waffles are not up your alley, some other savoury creations to try are Prawn Avocado Tartare, Strawberries & Cheese, and the adorably named Monkey King – which is really a dessert waffle with banana cake chunks, caramelised bananas, toasted walnuts and vanilla ice-cream.

21 Lorong Kilat, #01-02
Singapore 598123
Tel: +65 9278 0466
Mon to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri: 11am – 11pm
Sat: 10am – 11pm
Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World

RIDERS CAFE

Always lively and bustling with people, Riders Cafe at Bukit Timah Saddle Club is one that needs no further introduction. It is a wonderful place to escape to if you want a sanctuary away from the humdrum of the city. And yes, food is pretty decent too.

51 Fairways Drive
Bukit Timah Saddle Club
Singapore 286965
Tel: +65 6466 9819
Tue to Sun : 8am – 9pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

Photo Credit: Smoocht

SMOOCHT x BOLD 

For artisanal vegan ice-cream made with organic crystal brown rice, organic evaporated sugar cane juice, real fruit and/or pure nut butters, head over to Smoocht, a cafe located a stone throw’s away from Chinese Garden MRT.

Indulge in these ice-cold treats without fearing for your waistlines as each scoop of ice cream at this cafe only adds up to 80 to 160 calories.

319 Jurong East Street 31 #01-58
Singapore 600319
Tel: +65 6266 6591
Daily: 11am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Chinese Garden

SUNDAY FOLKS

Following the success of Creamier at Toa Payoh, Sunday Folks is another desserts venture opened at the West of Singapore – a small ice-cream and waffles shop in Chip Bee Gardens, just across the road from Holland Village. The iconic square waffles are served with soft serve ice cream (6 flavours to choose from). As it is a very popular dessert place, be warned that it can get pretty crowded after dinner hours over the weekends.

44 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-52
Chip Bee Gardens
Singapore 278116
Tel: +65 6479 9166
Tue to Sun: 1pm – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Holland Village

SWEE LEE SOCIAL CLUB

Swee Lee has a refreshing concept that revitalises what used to be a plain old music instrument store. The cosy café appeals with its intimate setting that allows for heartfelt conversations with your friends over aromatic coffee with beans made from local speciality coffee roaster Common Man Coffee Roaster. Tip: Ask the staff for their secret menu!

1 Vista Exchange Green
#01-01-07/10, The Star Vista
Singapore 138617
Daily: 11am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

TWO WHEELS GOOD 

Two Wheels Good is a bicycle-themed café sitting in between Boon Lay MRT station and Jurong Point. With Hong Kong BBQ, Teochew Mee, local beverages, Kaya Toast and even booze on their menu, it is certainly a nice fusion of both traditional and western.

If you are a frequent biker or have your weekends reserved for bike-riding, do drop by this cosy café to purchase some bicycle accessories or just a hearty breakfast if bike-riding is not quite up your alley.

Two Wheels Good
#01-94/97, 61 Jurong West Central 3
Singapore 648330
Daily: 6am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Boon Lay

Photo Credit: time_table_cafe

TIME TABLE CAFÉ

Time Table Café is a hangout spot after school for their student set meals but they roll out weekly promos for their mains too. They have both savoury and sweet for a complete treat if you stopover. There’s coffee, latte art, pasta dishes, cakes as well as gelatos for you to relax with if you find yourself in Jurong West.

456 Jurong West Street 41, #01-726
Singapore 640456
Tel: +65 6566 5088
Mon to Fri 11am – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Lakeside

W39 BISTRO & BAKERY

Considered as one of the most popular cafés in the West, W39 Bistro is well-loved for its colourful decor and rainbow cakes. Located on Jalan Mas Puteh off West Coast Road, the café serves a hearty breakfast at very pocket-friendly prices on weekends. Egg lovers will enjoy the Hearty Breakfast and Eggs Benedict too.

39 Jalan Mas Puteh
Singapore 128637
Tel: +65 9646 5372
Tue to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 9am – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Clementi

When King Albert’s Park is mentioned, people normally think of the good ol’ days when McDonalds occupied the area. However, now, the place has been completely revamped into an up-and-coming mall space.

Just a walk through King Albert’s Park Mall, you will see several cafes and restaurants, including a new cinema. One such place that caught our eye was the sleek and simple Camaca cafe.

Camaca is a sugar-free dessert cafe, serving up indulgent treats that come without the guilt, along with a wide selection of single-origin coffees.

We ordered the Roasted Oolong Tea gelato (S$4.80++) and were pleasantly surprised by how creamy and flavourful the ice cream was even though it is sugar-free! The deceiving giant macarons on display were actually just packaging for the gelato inside.

The staff explained this keeps the gelato from turning too icy, hence maintaining a smooth texture. They even have a special machine to “de-shell” their gelato and to churn it out in a swirl after. One gripe we had was that it started to melt very quickly after it was served, but it was satisfying nonetheless!

Their gelato features all-natural flavours such as Pomelo Tea, Lychee Rose and even Musang King Durian. You can choose to have your gelato with an add-on of waffles (S$10.00) as well.

Camaca also serves a selection of pastries, and we managed to try their popular Vanilla Cheese Roll (S$4.00++), served with a splash of berry coulis.

It was truly one of the softest roll cakes we have ever tried—the texture of the cake and cream felt like cloud on our tongues. It was mildly sweet, with specks of vanilla bean running through the cream.

Lastly, we tried their Camaca SG Limited blend in the form of a Cappuccino (S$5.50++). It had a well-balanced flavour with hints of acidity and a lingering bitter note. The blend consists of 5 different beans from various origins including Ethiopia and Columbia.

They do serve up more varieties of single-origin coffees with other more unique tasting notes. Their staff were more than happy to explain the tasting notes of each of the bean varieties when we asked. They don’t provide any sugar with their coffee but you can request for some syrup!

Located just a stone’s throw away from King Albert’s Park MRT, Camaca is a great place to fight the increasingly warm weather with their gelato or to simply enjoy some cake and coffee. Keep an eye out for their bright green signboard; it’s hard to miss.

Camaca
9 King Albert Park #01-11 / #01-12
Singapore 598332
Tel: +65 6904 3811
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: King Albert’s Park

Hidden away at the rustic and relatively unexplored Portsdown road is Wessex Tavern, a quaint English-style cafe that serves delicious Western food and is a great place to head to for brunch.

This place was set up by none other than the younger generation of the Colbar family, so you know that they will only serve you the very best of hearty grub.

They have both alfresco and air-conditioned dining, so you can take your pick depending on how the weather is like. The cafe’s interior is nice and spacious, and the whole place is decorated in a very rustic manner, making you feel like you’re being taken back in time to an old-fashioned cafe.

In terms of food and beverages, they serve lots of great breakfast, brunch and lunch options such as Bangers & Mash (S$14), Big Breakfast (S$15.80), Tavern Pan-Fried Salmon (S$15.80), Homemade Shepherd’s Pie (S$8) and Homemade Beef Stew (S$13.80).

We decided to try their Avacado Sandwich which was served on multigrain bread with romaine, rocket, tomatoes, and alfalfa (S$8.90). The bread was a bit too hard for our liking, but that was just due to the nature of multigrain bread, so if you enjoy multigrain bread this would be perfect for you.

The bread was stuffed from edge to edge with vegetables and generous chunks of avocado, so much so that we had a hard time holding it even with both our hands. All in all, we feel that it was really worth the money even though it sounds very expensive.

Wessex Tavern really is a hidden gem that is worth exploring if you’re ever in the area. We recommend that you come here if you’re looking for a place to get away from the hectic city life.

Wessex Tavern
5B Portsdown Road #01-1
Singapore 139311
Tel: +65 64757019
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat: 9am – 6pm
Sun: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Commonwealth

Thanks to the downtown line, it is easier for us to explore other parts of Singapore in search of hidden food gems. And when it comes to hidden gems in Singapore, who can deny that Beauty World is amongst the top of most foodies’ lists? A secret food haven brimming with cosy cafes and eateries that serve tasty, affordable nosh, this enclave has it all.

We have here a list of great places that sell mouth-watering food. These places are located 5 minutes away from the MRT, so all you need to do is hop on the train, get off at Beauty World and then walk there!

Photo Credit: Buta Kin

BUTA KIN RAMEN 

Never would you expect to find good quality ramen in Singapore for under S$10. However, Buta Kin has managed to do just that. They sell restaurant-quality ramen in generous portions for S$6.90 a bowl, and we love how they are not stingy with their ingredients. Each bowl comes filled to the brim with thick slices of chashu, black fungus, nori, and a soft boiled egg.

144 Upper Bukit Timah Road, #04-28
Singapore 588177
Daily: 11.30am – 8.30am
(Closed on Mondays)

CARPENTER & COOK

This is probably the most popular at Lorong Kilat that is both a vintage home store and cafe, with some of the prettiest cakes. This is the ideal spot to rest and relax with a nice warm cup of coffee and a book.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

19 Lorong Kilat, #01-06,
Singapore 598120
Tel: +65 6463 3648
Mon to Fri: 10am – 10pm
Sat: 9am – 10pm
Sun: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Beauty World

G7 SIN MA CLAYPOT LIVE FROG 

To some, the idea of eating frog porridge may sound a bit squeamish. However, don’t dismiss it too quickly because frog porridge is actually really delicious! If you’re a first timer looking for a good place to try frog porridge, this would be a great place to try. The frog here is very sweet and tender, and tastes just like chicken — if not better!

5 Cheong Chin Nam Road
Tel: +65 64677317
Singapore 599730
Daily: 12pm – 3am

Photo Credit: Eatalltheyumz

HE ZHONG CARROT CAKE 

Tucked away in Bukit Timah Market and Food Centre is He Zhong Carrot Cake, which hands down sells some of the best white carrot cake in Singapore. For just S$2.50, you get an incredibly generous portion of chunky, springy and fragrant carrot cake that is great to chow down by yourself or to share around. For an extra kick, you can dip it in their tangy homemade chili sauce.

Bukit Timah Market and Food Centre
#02-185, Upper Bukit Timah Road
Singapore 588215
Thu to Tue: 6am – 8.30pm
Wed: 6am – 1am

Photo Credit: Jew Kit

JEW KIT CHICKEN RICE 

This place sells some really great chicken rice, and is a great place to go to when the chicken rice cravings hit you hard. The chicken served here is incredibly tender and silky, and it goes really well with their fragrant rice. Order a whole chicken to share around if you’re planning on going in a big group!

Bukit Timah Shopping Centre
170 Upper Bukit Timah Road, #B1-16/17/18
Tel: +65 64632637
Daily: 10am – 9pm

Photo Credit: Limpehtakemeto

JOO SENG TEOCHEW PORRIDGE AND RICE 

Joo Seng Teochew Porridge is one of our go-to places when we need to have our Teochew porridge fix. They have a plethora of ingredients to choose from, and it’s all very affordably priced. This place is great for a gathering with family and friends as you can order and try more dishes to share around.

14 Cheong Chin Nam Road
Singapore 599738
Tel: +65 64630768
Daily: 10am – 4am

KINDRED FOLK 

Tucked away in the new KAP Residence Mall is Kindred Folk, a charming double-storey ice cream cafe that serves a decent selection of unique homemade ice creams such as Roasted Rice Milk Tea and Wasabi. Besides ice cream, they also sell mains such as pasta and chicken drums.

9 King Albert Park
#01-09, King Albert Park Shopping Mall
Singapore 598332
Tel: +65 69283043
Daily: 12pm – 10pm

Photo Credit: Remintheeatingplace

PROSPERITY SEAFOOD WHITE BEE HOON 

Seafood White Bee Hoon is becoming a popular food item for a lot of Singaporeans these days, and it’s not hard to understand why. There is something incredibly satisfying about a steaming plate of white bee hoon that’s accompanied by a copious amount of seafood. Prosperity Seafood Bee Hoon does this job well and sells must-try white seafood bee hoon.

Bukit Timah Hawker Centre
51 Upper Bukit Timah Road, #02-182
Singapore 588215

Photo Credit: Jessalynnnhoe

SIN CHEW SATAY BEE HOON 

Satay Bee Hoon is one of the less raved about dishes here in Singapore, and we feel like it deserves more attention because it’s so sinfully good! Sin Chew does a good job of making a plate of satay bee hoon, and its hard to resist their plate of rice vermicelli smothered in a copious amount of sweet and savoury satay sauce.

Bukit Timah Market and Food Centre
51 Upper Bukit Timah Road #02-162
Singapore 588215
Wed and Thu: 5pm – 10pm
Sat and Sun: 11am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays and Friday)

Photo Credit: Kianzoid

XIE KEE HOKKIEN MEE  

Xie Kee Hokkien Mee is hands down one of the best Hokkien mees we have ever tried in Singapore, and its never-ending long snaking queues can attest to that! What makes them special is that they use flat noodles instead of the usual yellow noodles. The noodles soak up the gravy really well and have that satisfying touch of wok hei to it.

51 Upper Bukit Timah Road, #02-174
Singapore 588215
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm

Photo Credit: Platgal 

ZHONG ZHONG FINE SPICE  

If you’re looking for a stall that specialises in ngoh hiang, this is the place to be at. They have a decent variety of ingredients here such as crispy prawn fritters, you tiao, yau kwa, whole stuffed squid and pink sausages. We love dunking it in the pink sweet sauce for a sweet touch!

51 Upper Bukit Timah Road, #02-149
Singapore 588172

Photo Credit: The.coolbean

ZHOU PIN PORRIDGE  

We feel that Zhou Pin porridge does not get as much credit as it deserves. This humble stall sells a wide range of porridges that are great for a rainy day or if you’re looking for some comfort food. Each bowl comes with a long, crunchy stick of you tiao, and the owners are very generous with their servings of porridge. 

51 Upper Bukit Timah Road, #02-149
Singapore 588172

Read: Beauty World Food Centre Guide – 8 hawker gems to try

Our favourite Fresh Fruits Lab (FFL) is back at it again. They have opened a second cafe—Fresh Fruits Lab Z Edition—in Clementi just behind NUS.

The new outlet is nothing short of amazing. Just like their previous branch, they stick to the core of incorporating fruits into their menu as much as possible, being kid-friendly, and serving up absolutely delicious food at even more reasonable prices than before.

We already know what’s great at their first branch, so what is it about The Z Edition that makes it fantastic? A bouncy castle for kids during the weekends! And on top of that, there are some tweaks to the menu and here is everything we love.

From now until 30 Nov 2018, kids below 8 dine for free during weekends at Fresh Fruits Lab Z when you quote ‘ladyironchef’. Every order of a main course comes with a complimentary kid’s main (from the kids’ menu).

Calling all mommies: this is also the next brunch spot you must bring your kids to for a jolly good time!

BANGING APPETISERS

Just like before, FFL serves their signature cold-pressed juices in a small test tube for you to sample, and in an adorable beaker should you order the full-size ones (averagely S$5 per glass).

We ordered the Spam Fries (S$8) as well as the Golden Brown Chicken Wings (S$8)—both served with homemade sweet chilli sauce.

The chicken wings had a lovely crispy skin that readily soaked up sweet garlic taste of the chilli. It was well seasoned down to the bone, and juicy without being oily. The light batter coating the spam fries also had an interesting texture to it, that provided a pleasant contrast between it and the soft spam inside. Despite being deep fried, it wasn’t greasy at all.

VALUE-FOR-MONEY MAINS

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again. The Classic British Fish and Chips (S$12) is our all-time favourite main at FFL.

As plain and boring as it sounds, the portion size is massive, and the fish remains firm, flaky and delicately soft, encrusted by a thin layer of white ale batter. Their homemade tartar sauce boasts a slight spice to it that made the whole dish even more enjoyable. As if the generous serving is not filling enough, it comes with a side of fruit salad and truffle fries.

Another main to try is the FFL Baked Rice (S$9). The rice is cooked in buttermilk before being baked with a layer of mozzarella cheese, and it is pleasantly cheesy without being cloying or heavy. With bacon, chicken ham and mushrooms in it, kids are bound to love this dish of baked rice for sure!

The Grilled Pork Loin (S$15) is also a chef’s recommendation. Tender, thick and juicy, each morsel was a delight in itself to eat.

Served with mashed potatoes, eggplant pesto and green zucchini, the flavours intermingled with one another to highlight and emphasize the natural sweetness of the meat. It also comes along with pesto mayo sauce and apple chutney that helped to change up the flavour profile as we ate it.

Cafes are usually not known for their steaks, but FFL’s Angus Rib Eye (S$22) is definitely worth its price. It is a genuine 250gm of Angus ribeye that’s tender and soft, with the perfect amount of chew before easily sliding down your throat.

We loved how with every chew it released more of that beef flavour we all know and love, which melded well with their brown sauce that was slightly sweeter than the typical chargrill or mushroom sauce.

We also enjoyed their Cajun Chicken (S$10), which is really a simple yet comforting roasted cajun chicken served with grilled vegetables, sweet corn and mashed potatoes.

BITE-SIZED FUN FOR THE KIDS

Just like their first branch, FFL aims to cater to the entire family. Treat your kids to deliciously adorable meals such as FFL’s Teddy The Daddy (S$8), Little Miss Koala (S$8) or Chicken Little (S$10).

Their kids’ menu is prepared with less salt, without compromising on any of the other flavours for the children to enjoy. That is, if they’re willing to cut into something so cute.

From now until 30 Nov 2018, kids below 8 dine for free during weekends at Fresh Fruits Lab Z when you quote ‘ladyironchef’. Every order of a main course comes with a complimentary kid’s main (from the kids’ menu).

They also offer cake decorating to allow your kids to have a hand at crafting their own desserts. Choose from a range of their signature and have your children’s creativity flow from the tip of their chocolate pens.

For those kids that just can’t sit still, there’s a bouncy castle out in their backyard—set up at Fresh Fruits Lab Z on weekends. Boy, won’t the kids get so excited about this!

Your kids will absolutely love the bouncy castle where they can bounce and run back and forth. Fresh Fruits Lab Z Edition is the perfect place for parents to kick back and relax with good food while their children entertain themselves.

During lunch hours from 12pm to 3pm (except on public holidays), FFL offers a set menu consisting of a drink, salad and main for only S$10.90++.

For the alcoholics, you’d also be glad to know they have daily beer promotions. The most bang for the buck ones being Wednesdays for students, with beer towers at only S$39 (U.p. S$49–53), and Fridays with two towers going for S$89! Worth it!

Fresh Fruits Lab – The Z Edition
28 Clementi Road
Singapore 129754
Tel: +65 6803 7472
(Closed on Mondays)
Tues to Fri: 12pm – 12am
Sat & Sun: 11am – 12am
Nearest Station: Kent Ridge

Fresh Fruits Lab
351 Changi Rd, Singapore 419818
Tel: +65 6677 6741
Tue to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos/ Kembangan

This post was brought to you by Fresh Fruits Lab.

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.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

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

Offering a full-on menu of both Asian and Western fare, Colbar is one of the few gems in Singapore that we can safely say, has truly stood the test of time. Opened in 1953, the establishment formerly served as a canteen for the British army. It, therefore, gave rise to its name, Colbar, otherwise referred to as ‘Colonial Bar’.

Granted that it’s a little out of the way, especially for those who do not drive, it is still a charming spot that’s worth the trip. It is a retreat from civilisation and it is also a great place to catch a glimpse of the old days.

This rustic hideout is furnished with retro interiors like Formica tabletops and old photographs, which bring an air of nostalgia that sets you back in time. Whether you’re pining for a beer, some food or a place to chill, Colbar is one that’ll guarantee you a relaxed and tranquil experience.

Well-versed in the culinary art of Western cooking, the cooks here are able to whip up a wide array of both Western and Asian delights.

In addition to their stellar grub, they also carry a vast selection of English craft beers. From sweet ciders to bitter IPAs, they have it all.

Their Roasted Chicken Chips & Mushroom came with a piece of chicken leg and a small portion of potato wedges and mushrooms. Despite the small portion, the chicken was well roasted—super crispy on the outside and firm but not too dry on the inside.

The mushrooms were coated in savoury gravy, which complimented the chicken.

Next came the Pork Cutlet Chips & Mushroom which was equally good as well.

The meat was succulent and well coated in panko breadcrumbs, that did well to give the pork an incredible crunch as well as help to lock in moisture. The pork itself boasted a subtle yet pleasant note of rosemary and thyme which we thought worked brilliantly.

The dish that we enjoyed the most was definitely the Cheese Omelette & Chips. This classic dish was simple yet so ‘egg-cellent’.

The egg was really soft and fluffy and the warm melted cheese inside just oozes out with a slight cut. The portion and wonderful taste of the omelette definitely made up for the price.

Last on our table was the Dry Ho Fun, which we felt was nothing special. Just like a plate of fried kway tiao, it was filled with basic ingredients like small prawns, fish cakes and bean sprouts.

We liked that they added a good portion of fried shallots on top that added a crunch to the dish. However, the dish was simply too greasy to finish.

Colbar
9A Whitchurch Road
Singapore 138839
Tues to Sun: 9.30am – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: One North

Buona Vista is a little far-flung for those who do not reside in the West. The whole vicinity  is well-known for its educational institutes and facilities as well as high-technology research industries.

However, this buzzy part of Singapore happens to be a budding café precinct that is home to a handful of bistros and cafes and is an up-and-coming hipster neighbourhood that is worth exploring.

Whether you are looking for a scrumptious brunch fare or an artisanal cup of coffee, here are 9 Bistros and Coffee Spots in Buona Vista To Explore.

#1 AWFULLY CHOCOLATE

As the name of the café suggests, Awfully Chocolate specialises in rich and decadent chocolate cakes. The wide range of chocolate confections and pastries here is impressive and the price points are pretty reasonable. For a 6-inch All Chocolate Cake, you only need to pay S$34.

Awfully Chocolate
1 Vista Exchange Green
#02-18 The Star Vista
Singapore 138617
Tel: +6694 4805
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

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Photo Credit: victoinette

#2 BODACIOUS BAR & BISTRO

Decorated in an industrial style, Bodacious Bar & Bistro whips up a delicious line up of breakfast and comfort food. If you do not have the time for a hearty breakfast, this cosy bistro is also a great spot for a quick morning brew against a vastly green view.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn 3 miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

Bodacious Bar & Bistro
70 Biopolis St
Singapore 138547
Tel: +65 6778 9585
Mon to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat: 10am –10pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

#3 CEDELE BAKERY KITCHEN

At Cedele Bakery Kitchen, you can expect a comprehensive menu with choices ranging from all-day breakfast, lunch and dinner items. There is also a takeaway section for the bakery—perfect for those who are in a hurry.

Cedele Bakery Kitchen
1 Vista Exchange Green
#01-19 The Star Vista
Singapore 138617
Tel: +65 6734 0763
Mon to Fri: 10am – 9.30pm
Sat and Sun: 9am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

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Photo Credit: randymionho

#4 JIMMY MONKEY CAFÉ & BAR

If you are on a quest to find good coffee in Singapore, you should definitely drop by Jimmy Monkey Cafe & Bar—an Australian-style cafe at One-North Residences. On their menu, you can find savoury and sweet bites such as Smoked Salmon Spaghetti, Truffle Potato Fries, French Toast with Maple Syrup and many more.

Jimmy Monkey Café & Bar
9 One-north Gateway
#01-51 One-North Residences
Singapore 138643
Tel: +65 6777 8470
Daily: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

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Photo Credit: monkicafeholland

#5 MONKI CAFÉ

A stone’s throw away from Buona Vista MRT station, Monki Café is a newly-opened Taiwan-Western fusion café that offers savoury set meals and a wide selection of shaved ice desserts. Seasonal dishes are added weekly so there is always something new to look forward to.

Monki Café
43 Holland Drive
#01-41 Singapore 270043
Tel: +65 6258 8112
Tue to Sun: 10am – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

Photo Credit: rochestercafesg

#6 ROCHESTER CAFÉ

Calling all sweet tooths! Rochester Café is a new dessert café tucked away in Rochester Mall. The lovely dining establishment offers a delightful variety of layered cakes, ice cream, waffles and a decent range of hot beverages to pair with your sweet treats.

Rochester Café
35 Rochester Drive
#01-08 Rochester Mall
Singapore 138639
Tel: +65 9842 5821
Daily: 8am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

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Photo Credit: littlenuggetpaws

#7 SIXTY40

Located at Rochester Mall, Sixty40 operates as a café in the day and transforms into a casual bar at night. The gastrobar boasts a laid-back ambience, which makes it a great spot to hang out with your mates.

The best part? There are dart machines to keep you entertained!

Sixty40
35 Rochester Drive
#01-05 Rochester Mall
Singapore 138639
Tel: +65 6684 9028
Mon – Thur: 11.30am – 12am
Fri: 11.30am – 1am
Sun: 4pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

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#8 SWEE LEE SOCIAL CLUB

Music instrument institution Swee Lee is a home-grown brand and tucked inside the store is Swee Lee Social Club, a café where patrons can gather over a cup of coffee and light bites.

In addition to their stellar coffee, Swee Lee Social Club also carries juices and sweet treats such as Waffle & Co. (S$10) and Sweet toast (S$7).

Swee Lee Social Club
1 Vista Exchange Green
#01-01-07/10 The Star Vista
Singapore 138617
Tel: +65 6334 7703
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

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Photo Credit: thelawncafe

#9 THE LAWN

Tucked away in the lush greenery of Biopolis, The Lawn is a cosy café which specialises in salad and grills. You can customise your own meal by filling up a simple form and ticking off various combinations.

Featuring 12 tantalising grills, 30 toppings and various dressings, diners are spoilt for choice.

The Lawn
31 Biopolis Way
#01-07 Nanos
Singapore 138669
Tel: +65 6478 9739
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 9pm
Sun: 10.30am – 4pm
(Closed on Saturdays)
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

Located on the first level of Gek Poh Shopping Centre in Jurong West, OH MY MANGO is a new dessert cafe that breathes new life into the somewhat run-down neighbourhood shopping centre. Specialising in Thai-inspired sweet treats, their menu boasts more than 40 different items from desserts to colourful beverages and even assorted Shibuya toasts that are available in both sweet and savoury varieties.

If you think that this is just another neighbourhood dessert pitstop, think again. On their menu, you can expect to find some pretty interesting offerings such as their Tom Yum Goong Toast (S$6.90) which is somewhat similar to a pizza except with the addition of the spicy and zesty flavours of Thailand’s iconic dish.

Those living in the West of Singapore truly have something to be glad about, especially with so many interesting cafes and eateries sprouting up around the area. Whether it’s a quick coffee run or a much-needed sugar spike, OH MY MANGO Dessert Cafe is a great option to consider.

This humble establishment has both indoor and outdoor seating but ordering is done in the separate unit just next door. Here, the overall appearance is kept minimalistic with plenty of hipsterish decors to give it a cafe-like vibe.

Their menu features more than 40 items ranging from sweet bingsu, a wide array of Shibuya toast options and a pretty extensive range of beverage options—from the iconic Thai milk tea to some quirky innovations.

Going by the name of OH MY MANGO, it would be a waste if we did not try at least one mango dessert, and boy were we impressed by the Fresh Mango Toast (S$10.90).

Comprising a scoop of mango-flavoured ice cream, cubes of deliciously sweet mango and a sprinkling of crushed almonds atop a thick and crispy slab of buttery toast, this to us gives the typical ice-cream-and-waffle combination a serious run for its money.

For the matcha fans, the Matcha Green Tea Bingsu (S$9.90) works up a real treat especially with the addition of a sticky red bean purée and crushed almonds that not only provides a nice texture to the bingsu but also bolsters the bitter green tea flavour with a hint of sweetness.

Anyone who loves Thai food will surely appreciate their Mango Sticky Rice (S$6). Simply put, this popular Thai dessert comes with no gimmicks attached. It comprises sweet sticky rice, fresh mangoes and a salted coconut sauce that you can pour over everything.

We have tried numerous variations all over, but the qualities that we believe determine a solid mango sticky rice dessert is the consistency of the coconut sauce and the freshness of the mango—which the good folks here nail down beautifully.

OH MY MANGO Dessert Bar
762 Jurong West Street 75
#01-334 Gek Poh Shopping Centre
Singapore 3640762
Tel: +65 9066 0426
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Boon Lay

For more recommendations, read our guide to the best cafes in the West of Singapore.

Music instrument institution Swee Lee is a homegrown brand that began their humble operations in 1946 by supplying brass and woodwind instruments to the British military band. Today, Swee Lee owns several showrooms and lifestyle stores that can be found all over Singapore and they offer a range of contemporary musical instruments such as drums and guitars.

Their flagship store at The Star Vista recently underwent renovation works and the original store has expanded to cater for a new retail space that stores just about everything a musician will ever need. Expect to be greeted by musical instruments, audio and DJ equipment, fashion apparels, a music academy and the best part for coffee enthusiasts—an in-house cafe called Swee Lee Social Club.

Upon first look, the cosy cafe immediately appealed to us with its intimate setting that allows for heartfelt conversations with your friends over coffee, yet with enough space for patrons to walk around comfortably.

In addition to their stellar brews, Swee Lee Social Club also carries juices and bottled drinks that are kept in a chiller.

Boasting an aromatic selection of freshly brewed coffee brewed with beans that are roasted by local speciality coffee roaster Common Man Coffee Roasters and various types of tea, Swee Lee Social Club is the latest hangout spot in the west that you should know about.

Be sure to approach the baristas behind the bar for the secret menu that features some light bites and smoothie options. Swee Lee Social Club’s secret menu is concise and there were only 5 items on it—a small selection of smoothies and some sweet offerings.

If you are ever craving for something sweet, their Waffle & Co (S$10) off the secret menu will do the trick. It comprises a crispy buttermilk waffle topped with a scoop of ice cream as well as a myriad of sprinkles from rainbow rice to crushed peanuts.

Simple as it was, this waffle dish is bound to satisfy those with a sweet tooth—no doubts about that.

For something a little more filling, diners can opt for the Sweet Toast (S$7) that features fresh blueberries, bananas, muesli, honey and dried fruit scattered over a toasted piece of sourdough toast.

Despite the dish having lots of interesting textures, we felt that the dish was lacking a certain wow factor. It was literally just a variety of fruits scattered over bread which basically anyone could whip up at home.

Overall, we would say that although the food was not the most fantastic around, we still give props to Swee Lee for adopting such a refreshing concept to revitalise what used to be a plain old music instrument store.

Swee Lee Social Club
1 Vista Exchange Green
#01-01-07/10, The Star Vista
Singapore 138617
Tel: +65 6334 7703
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

Nestled in the new KAP Residence Mall along King Albert Park, Kindred Folk is a charming double-storey ice cream café that provides a relaxing respite where families and friends can gather and indulge in an array of comforting, homemade recipes.

Serving a decent selection of unique homemade ice cream such as Roasted Rice Milk Tea and Wasabi, patrons get to pair them up with charcoal waffle, cone and even deep-fried man tou (Chinese buns)! Beyond that, the menu also features a variety of fusion pasta and finger food such as Tom Yum Aglio Olio and Fried Chicken Drumlets.

Place your orders on the first floor before heading up the second floor where you will find seats with an idyllic view and a hammock you can rock on.

Kindred Folk’s tantalising Mi-So Sexy pasta (S$15) was full of flavours and it came with al dente Capellini tossed in savoury miso sesame sauce, topped with an onsen egg and  generous amounts of sautéed shimeiji mushrooms.

The café also offers lunch sets (S$12.90) that come with a bowl of wholesome pasta and a drink of your choice (black coffee/ ice lemon tea/ canned drink). Students studying in the campuses nearby can consider dropping by for their student meals (S$9.90).

Ice cream flavours that caught our attention were Roasted Rice Milk Tea (S$3.70) and Cereal Milk (S$3.70). Customers can top up a dollar for the Charcoal Cone or a Fried Mantou.

The Roasted Rice Milk Tea ice cream with Charcoal Cone was a unique combination. The charcoal cone had a subtle earthy flavour that complemented the slightly nutty Roasted Rice Milk Tea.

Kindred Folk’s Fried Mantou (S$1 for a mantou, add S$3.7 for a scoop of ice cream) is a must-order! Sandwiched between the Cereal Milk ice cream, the piping hot Fried Mantou provided a very good crunch and texture that grows on you with every bite. The Cereal Milk ice cream may be on the sweeter side but it paired so well with the savoury Fried Mantou that we devoured ours in seconds.

With that, Kindred Folk is a hidden gem in Bukit Timah that makes a perfect place to unwind and relax or study if you wish. This humble ice cream café won us over with their down-to-earth concept that focuses on serving quality food.

Kindred Folk
9 King Albert Park
#01-09, King Albert Park Shopping Mall
Singapore 598332
Tel: +65 6928 3043
Mon to Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest station: King Albert Park

Bok’s Kitchen is a homey cafe situated along Boon Lay Avenue and it is a new F&B project from the same team behind The Hidden Chefs which specialises in private dining arrangements.

Featuring a progressive menu comprising dishes that are unlike the standard cafe fare, Bok’s Kitchen delights taste buds with primarily local flavours with a mixture of other Asian and Western influences

Diners can expect a variety of mains such as filling rice bowls, breakfast items and sides, as well as a small selection of desserts and drinks. The casual atmosphere at Bok’s Kitchen makes it a great destination for westies to pop by for an affordable fuss-free meal with their family and friends.

Nestled within an HDB block, Bok’s Kitchen is an 11-minute bus ride away from Lakeside MRT Station. As the estate is rather new, those who are looking to have a meal in a quiet environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city will enjoy dining at this humble cafe.

We were pleasantly surprised that the Char Siew Rice Bowl (S$9++) at Bok’s Kitchen fared better than most of the rice bowls that we’ve had in Singapore.

The generous pieces of tender char siew came in a glorious shade of red, with charred edges that gave the meat some textural variety. Alongside Papa Bok’s Legendary Char Siew were runny sous vide egg, fragrant Italian spiced rice and some sliced pickles that helped to elevate the natural flavours of the char siew.

Another star dish at Bok’s Kitchen is the Beef Rice Bowl (S$12++) While we love the intense beef flavours of the juicy steak, we felt that it would be better if diners are able to choose their preferred doneness to enhance the entire experience. Similar to other rice bowls, the beef flank steak was accompanied with Italian spiced rice and sous vide egg cooked at precisely 63 degrees Celsius.

Bok’s Kitchen by Hidden Chefs
Blk 216 Boon Lay Avenue, #01-01
Singapore 640216
Tue to Fri: 11am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 9pm
Mon: Closed
Nearest Station: Lakeside

Holland Village’s sister neighbourhood is a quaint food enclave that resonates well with many who seek a quieter dining experience. Situated just behind Holland Village MRT station, the stretch of charming cafes and elegant restaurants provide a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of Holland Village.

Some of the fine restaurants here will delight even the most sophisticated of gourmands such as Mai Thai and Original Sin. For those who prefer a quick bite or some yummy desserts to beat the sweltering heat, pull up a chair at Da Paolo Gastronomia or The Daily Scoop for some top-notch ice cream.

Here are 8 Cafes & Restaurants to hit up at Chip Bee Gardens if you find Holland Village too mainstream.

#1 BAKER & COOK

Artisan bakery Baker & Cook is helmed by reputable baker Dean Brettschneider who has over 20 years of culinary experiences and 12 published baking books.

From homemade cakes, pastries, jams to hearty meals, Baker & Cook is your one-stop destination for superb breakfast items. There is also an extensive list of fine wines and Allpress Espresso to choose from.

44 Jalan Merah Saga
#01-56, Chip Bee Gardens
Singapore 278116
Tel: +65 6472 0998
Mon to Thu: 7.30am – 8pm
Fri to Sat: 7.30am – 10pm
Sun: 7.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

#2 DA PAOLO PIZZABAR 

Casual Italian bistro Da Paolo boasts a great ambience with its delightful indoor-outdoor dining concept. Enjoy from a tantalising spread of gourmet Italian fare at the trattoria itself or opt for take-out. Gourmet pasta, pizzas, salads and sandwiches are all freshly prepared by professionals and those with a sweet tooth should not miss out on their signature tiramisu.

44 Jln Merah Saga
#01-46, Chip Bee Gardens
Singapore 278116
Tel: +65 6479 6059
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

#3 MAI THAI RESTAURANT

In need for some authentic, lip-smacking Thai food? Mai Thai Restaurant is the perfect place to go to. You will be spoilt for choice with their exhaustive menu featuring Thai salads, soups, seafood, poultry, rice, noodles and desserts.

44 Jalan Merah Saga
#01-58, Chip Bee Gardens
Singapore 278116
Tel: +65 6474 3100
Daily: 11am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

#4 MADRINAA ITALIANO

A newcomer on the block, Madrinna Italiano has moved from Queens Road and overtaken its previous tenant, Michaelangelo’s. Their handmade thin-crust pizzas are highly raved and start from wallet-friendly prices of S$24++.

Delight the epicurean in you and make this your go-to spot for scrumptious Italian cuisine. You can start off with the Tortelli Crab and Lobster to whet your appetite!

44 Jalan Merah Saga
#01-60, Chip Bee Gardens
Singapore 278116
Tel: +65 6474 7342
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

#5 ORIGINAL SIN

One of Chip Bee Gardens’ original stalwarts, Original Sin restaurant has been doling out comforting vegetarian Mediterranean gourmet since 1997. Do order their budget-friendly set lunches which come with an appetising soup/salad, delectable main (choose from grilled eggplant wrap, veggie burger or tomato spaghetti) and a warm chocolate cake for just S$28++.

The al fresco terrace is a splendid spot to wind down after a long day and indulge in their hearty Lasagna Rossa.

43 Jalan Merah Saga
#01-62, Chip Bee Gardens
Singapore 278115
Tel: +65 6475 5605
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

#6 SUNDAY FOLKS

Local speciality dessert cafe Sunday Folks is renowned for their iconic Belgian waffles (single slice – S$8.80, double slices – S$11.80) topped with generous portions of ice-cream (S$7.20 per cup / S$7.20 per cone).

There are only six ice cream flavours available on the menu, but these exotic flavours (Earl grey Lavender!) should suffice to please.

44 Jalan Merah Saga
#01-52, Chip Bee Gardens
Singapore 278116
Mon: Closed
Tue to Fri: 1pm – 10pm
Sat to Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

#7 THE DAILY SCOOP

The Daily Scoop is an ice cream parlour selling an extensive variety of ice cream flavours. Each batch of ice cream is churned and made daily in-house with local fresh ingredientshence guaranteeing superior quality that is unlike other mass-produced desserts.

From the exotic Mao Shan Wang durian to Nutty Macadamia, The Daily Scoop rotates flavours on a weekly basis so that customers will never get sick and tired of the same old creations.

43 Jalan Merah Saga
#01-78, Chip Bee Gardens
Singapore 278115
Tel: +65 6475 3128
Mon to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri to Sat: 11am – 10.30pm
Sun: 2pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

#8 THE MONOCLE CAFE

Monocle is an innovative venture of the popular culture magazine Monocle. The tastefully-decorated shop is filled with leather accessories and other high-quality handicrafts.

Monocle sells only coffee (from S$4) and is a great hangout place for hipsters who appreciate minimalist and rustic-looking decors. There truly is no other better way to pick up the latest publication of Monocle than from The Monocle Cafe itself!

74 Jalan Kelabu Asap
Singapore 278267
Tel: +65 6475 1791
Daily: 11am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

Birdfolks is an American fried chicken and kopi-centric eatery and the latest food establishment to open up at NEWest along West Coast Drive. It exudes a rather cafe-like vibe but their menu offerings speak of something entirely different.

Fusing the qualities of good old American fried chicken along with their little twist of Asian influence in the form of a dark, robust coffeeshop kopi, this quirky eatery aims to start a new ball rolling which breathes nostalgia in a whole different light.

Fried chicken paired with homegrown coffeeshop kopi? That’s genius!

Photo Credit: Birdfolks

This is a joint that’s decorated like a cafe, serving up fried chicken between sandwiches, with rice or on its own along with some nibbles, sweet treats, traditional kopi and house-made tea.

Photo Credit: Birdfolks

The Signature Chicken Rice Box (S$9.90) consists of edamame, sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, sous vide egg and chunks of boneless fried chicken, all of which sit atop their house special rice.

Take your pick of the tasty rice which comes in a variety of flavours such as Cilantro Lime, Tomato Oregano, Original or Garlic Butter—the Garlic Butter Rice is pretty hot among patrons.

Photo Credit: Birdfolks

Before the bird hits the fryer, it lies submerged in a brine for a considerable amount of time, allowing it to stay super moist and succulent even after being deep-fried.

All these talks about fried chicken have honestly got our appetites fired up. Whether its expertly cooked fried chicken or a decent cuppa to get you through the day, you just know that Birdfolks will get it all sorted out for you.

Birdfolks
1 West Coast Drive
#01-75 NEWest
Singapore 128020
Tel: +65 9028 5485
Daily: 12.00pm – 9.00pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

With the opening of Hillview Community Club, residents and those who are working near the area now have more dining options apart from restaurants and cafes at HillV2. One cafe that stood out among the rest of the casual dining spots there is Kohi-Ya.

Opened by the team behind Ninepress who also runs Kyu Coffee Bar at Prudential Tower, Kohi-Ya offers Asian cuisine that comes with a Creative twist. Think udon served with Mentaiko sauce, wagyu beef balls doused in Japanese curry and more.

The gorgeous interior is also an added bonus, so remember to drop by this new cafe in the West of Singapore for a weekend brunch with your family or significant other!

Kohi-Ya’s lovely interior exudes a calm ambiance, using light blonde wood for its furniture and tiffany blue as the cafe’s primary colour scheme. Solo diners can choose to sit at the bar and watch the barista in action while those in groups can take up one of the communal tables.

We went for their Popping Mentaiko (S$14), which is an absolutely stunning dish. You get a generous portion of smooth udon in mentaiko sauce and a variety of toppings such as popcorn chicken, bacon bits, onsen egg, seaweed and some fresh flower petals.

The hot Mentaiko sauce was creamy and rich; every mouthful was bursting with flavours. For an elevated taste, break the onsen egg and have it together with the runny yolk. As much as we loved the dish, we felt that there was nothing spectacular about the popcorn chicken.

Those who are looking for a meatier alternative can try their Good Ol’ Classic Cheese Steak Burger (S$18). Unlike a traditional burger, this one does not come with buns so you do not have to waste stomach space on redundant carbs.

Instead, diners get 200g of minced Wagyu beef covered over with a slice of melted cheddar cheese and sliced mushrooms in brown sauce. The ‘burger’ is accompanied with crispy french fries and a handful of fresh greens.

You can opt for your preferred level of doneness and we would recommend going for medium or medium rare so you can taste the full flavours of the wagyu.

Kohi-Ya
1 Hillview Rise
#01-04, Hillview Community Club
Singapore 667970
Tel: +65 6288 8488
Daily: 9am – 8.30pm
Nearest Station: Hillview

Most people regard one-north as the CBD of the west, but little did we know that this part of Singapore also happens to be a budding little dining enclave, filled with hearty eateries and stunning cafes.

We all know how important a good cuppa is to get us through a work day, so here are 8 cafes in one-north that you should definitely pay a visit to for great, revitalising coffee. The best part is that they are all within walking distance from one another.

Nothing perks us up on a hectic work day than a top-notch cup of properly brewed coffee. Here are 8 cafes in one-north for you to get your caffeine fix.

BREAD YARD

Bread Yard sprouted on campus in the early and inspiring days of the Singapore University of Technology and Design. It became quite the food icon of the university, drawing in crowds from outside the campus. In three years, the team made a decision to move out of the campus to gain wider access to the public.

At Bread Yard, bread is handcrafted with ancient Japanese and European techniques served with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, leavened pancakes, and aromatic drip coffees in a rustic and fast-casual setting.

1 Fusionopolis Pl,
Singapore 138522
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 8am – 7.30pm
Sat: 9am – 2.30am
Nearest Station: one-north

ONE MAN COFFEE

This extension branch of One Man Coffee serves the usual cafe beverages and some pastries. Small in size, this outlet serves as more of a grab-and-go for office workers working nearby in need of a solid cuppa.

We highly recommend trying their Nitro Cold Brew. It is surprisingly smooth and easy to drink with a subtle fruity note at the end, great for hot afternoons.

4 Fusionopolis Way, Kinesis #01-15,
Singapore 138635
Tel: +65 8181 2479
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Station: one-north

COFFEE BANDITS

The only coffee and food truck in Singapore to date, Coffee Bandits move from place to place. But for the time being, they are planting themselves in Fushionoplis way in one-north. So if you are lucky enough you might just spot this bright yellow truck in the area.

Offering simple, delicious and affordable meals and coffee, from grilled cheese sandwiches to sweet muffins, this is a great spot for a quick lunch or coffee run.

Fusionopolis 2
Tue & Fri: 8am – 3pm
Nearest Station: one-north

JIMMY MONKEY

As one of the first few to set up shop in this area, this Australian-style hang out is mostly known for their brunch items such as French toast and eggs benedict, but many coffee aficionados make the journey to have a taste of their coffee blends too.

#01-51 One-North Residences,
9 One-north Gateway,
Singapore 138643
Tel: +65 6777 8470
Daily: 7am – 6pm
Nearest Station: one-north

ARKADAS CAFE

Arkadas Cafe is a good place to visit if you find yourself sick of the usual eggs and toast combination for breakfast. Pop by this Turkish joint for more exotic flavours. Tuck into authentic creations like hummus with pita bread, chicken kebab, and other Turkish sweet treats like baklava and créme caramel.

For your caffeine fix, they also serve a mean Turkish coffee that is sure to perk you up. A wide selection of tea is available but we highly recommend trying the coffee.

1 Fusionopolis View, #01-02,
Sandcrawler,
Singapore 138577
Tel: +65 6466 9918
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: one-north

HUGGS COFFEE

Nestled within Galaxis, Huggs Coffee is another coffee joint where you can satisfy your caffeine needs. Presenting artisanal coffee originating from places like Columbia, Brazil, and Vietnamese origins, coffee aficionados will be spoilt for choice. Huggs Coffee caters more to the office crowd, which is why it is not uncommon to spot them at several office districts in Singapore.

Pair your freshly brewed cuppa with one of their freshly baked pastries as well for something a little more substantial!

1-3 Fusionopolis Way,
Singapore 138633
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: one-north

BAKERSFIELD SANDWICH BAR & PATISSERIE

Presenting something a little more different than your average coffee-and-cake joint is Bakersfield, a patisserie that serves quiches, sandwiches and beautifully crafted cakes and pastries. Hot favourites include their Black Glutinous Rice Coconut Cake as well as their Pistachio Strawberry Tart, but for something more substantial, you can consider their range of hearty sandwiches too.

#01-06, Innovis, 2 Fusionopolis Way,
Singapore 138634
Tel: +65 6250 2934
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 9pm – 4pm
Nearest Station: one-north

GREENWITCH

Serving up hearty and wholesome salad bowls, Greenwitch is a good spot for a casual lunch among co-workers and friends—who may or may not be calorie-conscious. In addition to greens, they also offer protein-packed grain bowls with meats like salmon or meatballs.

Healthy eats aside, they also brew up a mean cuppa so don’t miss out on that—especially their creamy flat white.

1 Fusionopolis Walk #01-12 Solaris Building
Singapore, 138628
Tel: +65 9155 1689
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: one-north

For more recommendations, read our guide on 31 Cafes in the West of Singapore you must visit.

EagleWings Loft is a new nautical-themed cafe and bar at the King Albert Park Residences Mall.

This humble week-old establishment by EagleWings—a popular luxury yacht charter in Singapore—features a cosy yet sophisticated ambience that is perfect for a weekend family brunch or any typical work-week meal.

The interior is decked out in nautical-themed decor that gives you a sense of being in the Caribbean. This spacious and luxurious setting features two levels; the first level boasts a cosy cafe-like vibe whereas the second level exudes a more sophisticated restaurant setting.

If there is any way to properly define the cuisine at EagleWings Loft, it is posh Italian coupled with flavourful Asian.

The Truffle flavoured Hook’d On Fries (S$9) comes in a sizeable portion. However, the truffle taste is relatively milder as compared to many other places.

From EagleWings Loft’s brunch menu, try the sweet version of their Port-Side Pancakes (S$10).

Light and fluffy butter pancakes come served with fresh berries and Chantilly cream. Each bite is a mouthful of pure decadence; the fresh berries give the dish a subtle tartness that is sure to perk anyone up and the buttery pancakes were fluffy yet incredibly moist.

For our choice of pasta, we went for the Truffled Blackbeard (S$18). The dish comprises squid ink pasta beautifully tossed together in a truffle-infused mushroom and bacon cream sauce and is served with grilled prawns and crushed walnuts.

We thought that the use of walnuts was a nice touch as it gave the dish a refreshing crunch. The prawns were grilled beautifully giving it a nice, mildly charred taste and the flesh was firm yet tender.

We found the cream sauce a tad bit rich and albeit being a truffle-based sauce, we struggled to detect any trace of truffle. We would have much preferred if the truffle flavour was boosted as it would have added a nice touch of umami to the dish.

All in all, we were truly marvelled by the ambience and the splendid service rendered to us at EagleWings Loft. Although the food itself could afford some room for improvement, we were pretty satisfied with our experience here and we will definitely return to try their other dishes.

As it is the restaurant’s first week of operations, many items on the menu are still unavailable, so unless you plan on having brunch or simply a coffee, we recommend dropping by EagleWings Loft in a week or two once they have gotten a more stable footing.

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EagleWings Loft
9 King Albert Park
#01-14/34 King Albert Park Residences Shopping Mall
Tel: +65 9796 0761
Mon to Fri: 9am – 1am
Sat & Sun: 8am – 1am
Nearest Station: King Albert Park

New kid on the block, CATfeine, is nestled in The Hillford along Jalan Jurong Kechil. Contrary to its name, nothing about the cafe’s interior design reminds you of a cat but the idea is there—a cosy environment coupled with relaxing vibes to encourage their guests to lounge around.

Other than specialty tea and coffee, CATfeine’s also offers sweet and savoury bites in the likes of waffles, pies and cakes.

Curious about how the cafe got its name? The cafe was set up by a pair of cat-loving couple who were inspired by their other passion—Coffee And Tea. Add the first letters together and you get the acronym CAT.

The two-month-old cafe opened its doors in early May this year and has since earned the approval of residents living nearby who come here for a chat with their friends or to read the morning papers.

Sit by the floor-to-ceiling glass window which overlooks the busy main road or find yourself an empty table at the cafe. We liked how the tables are not cramped together, which makes it comfortable to have a private conversation with your dining partner.

If there is a must-try at CATfeine, it has to be their waffles. The beautiful presentation alone is enough to impress us and we are glad to share that the taste did not disappoint either.

Out of the few waffle choices on the menu, we decided to go for their popular Sweet Summer (S$15) which came with orange, grapefruit, fresh berries, rich lavender ice cream and crispy waffles that are made upon order.

CATfeine also offers cakes and muffins over at the glass display by the counter. The Lychee Strawberry Cake (S$6.50) is essentially a sponge cake with layers of lychee cream. Overall, we felt that it looks better than it tastes.

Caffeine addicts will surely appreciate their selection of coffee drinks. We thoroughly enjoyed their Cappuccino (S$5.80) which was creamy and came with just the right amount of bitter tones from the espresso.

Other choices include Long Black (5oz – S$4, 10oz – S$5), Popcorn Capp (5oz – S$5, S$6.30) and Floral Latte (5oz – S$5, 10oz – S$6.30).

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Read: Guide to the best cafes in the West of Singapore.

Compared to other dining areas in the West, Sunset Way is one of the less visited dining destinations in Singapore. But lying within Sunset Way is a trove of amazing cafes, eateries and restaurants that are waiting to be discovered.

From old-school bakeries to coffee roasters and even seafood restaurants, the humble Sunset Way neighbourhood has so much to offer. It is truly an ideal place to visit for a relaxing afternoon over tea and cakes or for some quality family time over delicious food.

To get you started, here is a guide to 8 Cafes, Eateries & Restaurants To Dine At In Sunset Way. 

Photo Credit: Buttercake N Cream

BUTTERCAKE N CREAM

Hidden within Sunset Way’s enclave of cafes and restaurants lies Buttercake n Cream, a quaint bistro which serves a wide selection of western and modern Italian fare. Aside from the above, you can also order customised Novelty Cakes from Buttercake n Cream for a birthday or any other celebration.

Buttercake n Cream
Blk 106 Clementi Street 12, #01-52 Sunset Way,
Singapore 120106
Tel: +65 6777 3477
Mon: 11.30am – 3pm
Tue to Thu: 11.45am – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11.45am – 11pm
Sun: 11.45am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

CHIN HUAT LIVE SEAFOOD

Perhaps best known for its “Lobster which is better than a little girl” television commercial ad, Chin Huat Live Seafood is a popular seafood restaurant known for their delectable spread of seafood and zi char dishes. Some signature dishes to try include the signature Golden Sauce Crab, Salted Egg Yolk Crab and Deep-fried Crispy Chicken.

Chin Huat Live Seafood 
Blk 105 Clementi Street 12, #01-30,
Singapore 120105
Tel: +65 6775 7348
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

Photo Credit: OMG So Hungry

CLASSIC CAKES

Classic Cakes is a humble bakery at Clementi Arcade that offers traditional cakes such as the Black Forest, Cheesecake amongst others. Helmed by Charles Quek, Classic Cakes hopes to bring people together through the enjoyment of comfort cakes created from quality ingredients and family recipes.

Classic Cakes
41 Sunset Way, #01-06 Clementi Arcade,
Singapore 579071
Tel: +65 6762 8019
Tue: 2pm – 9pm
Wed to Sat: 11am - 9pm
Sun: 2pm – 7pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

Photo Credit: Drips Baker’s Playground

DRIPS BAKER’S PLAYGROUND

An incredible range of pastries, sweet treats and savoury bites await you at Drips Baker’s Playground. You will also be able to find healthy salads, pies and quiches to feed your hungry belly. Its time to have desserts all day, every day!

Drips Baker’s Playground
Blk 109 Clementi Street 11, #01-05.
Singapore 120109
Tel: +65 6776 0400
Mon to Sat: 8am – 8pm
Sun: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

HOHO KOREAN RESTAURANT

Hoho Korean Restaurant is an under-the-radar family eatery in Sunset Way which serves a variety of delicious Korean eats. They are currently offering a value-for-money lunch set menu (S$19) which comes with a BBQ meat, soup and rice. If not, their signature Haemul-Pajeon (S$19) would be a pleasant addition to your meal.

Hoho Korean Restaurant
Blk 106 Clementi Street 12, #01-58/60 Sunset Way,
Singapore 120106
Tel: +65 6250 3908
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

Photo Credit: Megumi Japanese Restaurant

MEGUMI JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Searching for a quick Japanese fix in Sunset Way? Megumi Japanese Restaurant will be your answer. This Japanese eatery serves up authentic Japanese cuisine and promises diners fresh fish as sashimi is flown in directly from Japan.

If you are visiting during lunch, Megumi Japanese Restaurant is currently offering donburi lunch sets at S$15 as part of their 15th anniversary celebrations.

Megumi Japanese Restaurant
Blk 106 Clementi Street 12, #01-64 Sunset Way,
Singapore 120106
Tel: +65 6779 1411
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

Photo Credit: Sunset Railway Cafe

SUNSET RAILWAY CAFE

Located in the less frequented Clementi Arcade, Sunset Railway Cafe offers diners local fare in a warm, inviting setting. A splendid array of local fare is available, which includes favourites such as the mee rebus, mee siam and nasi lemak.

Sunset Railway Cafe
41 Sunset Way, #01-02 Clementi Arcade,
Singapore 597071
Tel: +65 6463 0069
Thu to Sat: 8am – 10pm
Sun: 8am – 5pm
(Closed Mon to Wed)
Nearest Station: Clementi

THE DAILY SCOOP ICE CREAM CAFE

One of the most popular ice cream shops in Singapore, The Daily Scoop Ice Cream Cafe’s ice cream is freshly made in-store on a daily basis with high-quality natural ingredients and local produce.

The Daily Scoop Ice Cream Cafe
41 Sunset Way, #01-04 Clementi Arcade,
Singapore 597071
Tel: +65 6443 3365
Mon to Thu: 11am - 9pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10pm
Sun: 2pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

Most of us who live in the West should have already visited JEM, but how many of us are actually familiar with JEM inside and out? No one mentioned a hidden eatery located above Cookhouse by Koufu. If you think the fifth storey is the highest level in JEM, think again.

Poppy Pops actually sits on the sixth floor and is only accessible through the food court or the breezy rooftop located at the top of the shopping mall. If you are seeking a place with tranquil ambiance, sunlight and pleasant bites whenever you feel peckish, take a seat and grab a Poppy Classic along with the café’s Maple Butter Waffle.

What else is better than pleasant fare? Free Wi-Fi! Visitors do not have to pay for GST and service charge at Poppy Pops too.

The sixth storey of JEM is rarely accessed even by frequent shoppers, so it took a while for us to locate the café.

The interior of Poppy Pops is decked with gorgeously-lit bulbs and entwining vines, exuding a leafy, outdoor vibe.

We were also given an assortment of popsicle flavours to choose from: Yuzu, Pistachio, Lemon Blueberry, White Chocolate Raspberry, Honey Yogurt Apricot, Coffee Caramel and the classic flavours, Chocolate, Strawberry and Vanilla.

The Premium flavours are each priced at S$5.80 and the Classics at S$4.80 each.

The popsicles are Poppy Pops’ specialty. We got ourselves a Poppy Trio (S$6), Poppy Classic with added on Maple Butter Waffles (S$7.80) and Truffle Fries (S$12).

We were stoked to dig into our Honey Butter Waffles with Lemon Blueberry Poppy topped with Milk Chocolate and Salted Biscuits.

Unfortunately, there was nothing extraordinary about the truffle fries and S$12 for a serving like that may be a tad hefty.

All in all, we found delight in the complimentary Wi-Fi and a cozy ambiance. It is certainly charming to discover a homely place within all the mayhem.

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

For more recommendations, please read our guide to the best cafes in the West of Singapore.